TAKUDZWA HILLARY CHIWANZA
HARARE — In an unexpected turn of events, Beatrice Mtetwa, one of Zimbabwe's prominent legal practitioners, has withdrawn her services from representing Marry Mubaiwa, the ex-wife of Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, in a high-profile attempted murder case. Mubaiwa stands accused of attempting to assassinate her estranged husband.
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| Image: ZimLive.com |
Mtetwa's withdrawal came amidst her growing dissatisfaction with the handling of the case. The court’s decision to proceed with prosecuting the matter despite Mubaiwa’s post-surgery pain and without her legal representation elicited Mtetwa's frustration.
Mtetwa had requested a postponement, citing Mubaiwa’s pain from a leg surgery, but the court adjourned for about 20 minutes and asked Mubaiwa to provide medical documents. Mtetwa withdrew her services when the court resumed, citing perceived unfair treatment of her client.
Mubaiwa was given a day to secure new legal counsel, with the trial set to continue with the testimony of former Health Deputy Minister John Mangwiro.
The case has drawn significant attention, not only for its high-profile nature but also for its potential implications on women’s emancipation and freedom in Zimbabwe.
Critics argue that Mubaiwa’s case is emblematic of patriarchal misogyny that persists in society, affecting women regardless of their status or class.
Chiwenga, who fell ill in 2019, alleges that Mubaiwa attempted to murder him while he was bedridden. Three witnesses testified that Mubaiwa tried to prevent healthcare professionals from assisting Chiwenga, with one South African doctor alleging that she injected him with a poisonous substance.
As the trial continues amidst these controversies, it remains to be seen how this case will impact the ongoing discourse on women’s rights and gender equality in Zimbabwe.
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