Gumbura takes matter to ConCourt

Jailed cleric Robert Martin Gumbura has filed an application seeking referral to the Constitutional Court, arguing that his rights were being violated by forcing him to his defence at the magistrate’s court before his High Court appeal is finalised.

Gumbura is facing charges of attempting to break out of Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison, where he is serving a 40-year jail term for the rape of several female congregants.

Gumbura’s application was dismissed together with his alleged six accomplices, namely Blessing Chiduke (25), Luckmore Matambanadzo (39), Lucky Mhungu (38), Taurai Dodzo (47), Thomas Chacha (37) and Elijah Vhumbunu (38), while the other accused Thulani Chizema (32) and Jacob Sibanda (28) had their application granted after the State failed to prove a prima facie case against them.

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