Zimbabwe: Magistrate Suspended Over Stock-Theft Ruling

GWERU magistrate, Getrude Mayenyeso, has been suspended over a stock theft ruling she made that saw a convicted person getting away with a fine for the offence.
Mayenyeso was suspended for three months pending hearing of the alleged act of misconduct.
In February this year, Mayenyeso fined Mvuma-based farmer, Felix Tafirei Mujuru, $400 after convicting him for stealing a bull belonging to a neighbouring farmer.

Bulawayo High Court judge Justice Nokuthula Moyo reversed the ruling after the case had been sent for review after questioning how a charge of stock theft with a mandatory jail sentence could attract a fine $400.
Justice Moyo recommended that investigations should beconducted by the chief magistrate's office and appropriate action be taken.