High Court Postpones Bail Hearing for Timba & CCC Activists

The High Court has delayed the bail hearing for Jameson Timba, a prominent figure of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), along with 76 other activists, until next Tuesday.

This decision came as the court awaits the transcript of proceedings from lower courts, which the State reported is still being finalized by the chief transcriber.

Timba and the activists were arrested in June this year under accusations of convening with the intent to incite violence. Since their arrest on June 16, they have been held in remand prison. Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo previously denied them bail, citing concerns over their potential to disrupt security.

The arrests occurred during a commemoration of the Day of the African Child, organized by CCC officials. According to the State, the police received information that the gathering was unsanctioned and aimed at staging an unlawful demonstration in Harare. The situation reportedly escalated into skirmishes as the accused allegedly resisted arrest, resulting in injuries to two individuals among them.

However, the activists have countered these claims, asserting that the police employed excessive force, including tear gas, during the arrests. Tragically, one of the detainees lost a child while in custody, and authorities allegedly prevented her from attending the funeral. Another activist purportedly sustained a broken leg due to police actions.

The postponement of the bail hearing has extended the legal uncertainty surrounding Timba and the other activists, raising further questions about the judicial process and the allegations against them. As they await their next court appearance, supporters of the CCC continue to advocate for their release, emphasizing their right to peaceful assembly and expression.