Paul Nyathi

The trial of six MDC Alliance Activists arrested for staging “an illegal demonstration” failed to kick off at the Harare Magistrates Court on Monday as the court claimed to be waiting for mental examination results on Joanna Mamombe.

The results will needed in a different case will determine whether the trial proceed at their next appearance on October 13.

Mamombe’s results are expected on October 8 when she appears for the case where she is being charged with Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova for allegedly faking their abductions.

Yesterday, Mamombe, Chimbiri, Marova, Lovejoy Chitengu, Stanley Manyenga and Obey Tererai Sithole were supposed to be tried on allegations of staging an illegal demonstration, but Mr Reza said they wanted to ascertain Mamombe’s mental status before the trial commenced.

“We need to be guided by the outcome of the mental examination of the first accused (Mamombe),” he said.

“She is supposed to appear in court on October 8 and it is when we expect to know whether or not she will be able to stand trial.”

The five are charged with demonstrating at Warren Park in Harare over Covid-19 interventions by goverment.