World

Ex‑wife of Zimbabwe’s Vice‑President Released After Seven Years in Custody

By Today News Hours Editorial Desk

Marry Mubaiwa, the former wife of Zimbabwe’s vice‑president, was released from remand after seven years of detention while awaiting trial for an alleged attempted murder charge. Mubaiwa was charged in 2019 when her then‑husband, Gen Constantino Chiwenga, accused her of trying to prevent his medical treatment in South Africa. A magistrate ordered her release, citing mental, physical and financial prejudice suffered during the trial, according to the state‑owned daily The Herald. The decision came after the state requested a one‑month postponement of the trial to engage witnesses. Mubaiwa’s lawyer called the ruling a victory that arrived too late, noting that her client’s rights had been violated by the delay. Speaking outside the Harare courthouse on Tuesday, the lawyer said that if the state moved for a new trial, they would address it when it occurred. Mubaiwa was accused of attempting to kill Chiwenga while he was in hospital in Pretoria; Chiwenga had subsequently gone to China for four months of treatment. She had been remanded in custody and denied bail. Mubaiwa celebrated her release outside court, stating that justice had been achieved and expressing pride in her lawyer. In 2017, Chiwenga played a key role in overthrowing former President Robert Mugabe.