High Court Showdown: Chimombe, Mpofu Push to Stall Sentencing

A tense day at the High Court as businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu deploy legal maneuvers to delay sentencing in a major corruption case (image source)

The High Court turned into a theatre of suspense yesterday as controversial businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu pulled out every trick in the book to delay their sentencing. The duo, convicted in a corruption scandal that has dominated headlines for months, arrived in court flanked by lawyers, supporters, and a swarm of journalists eager for the next twist in their saga. What was supposed to be a straightforward sentencing hearing quickly morphed into high drama. Their legal team argued passionately for more time, claiming they needed to review evidence and prepare mitigation submissions. Prosecutors weren’t buying it. “This is nothing but a stalling tactic,” one prosecutor snapped, accusing the defence of trying to drag the case out indefinitely.

The courtroom atmosphere was electric. Supporters of the accused whispered prayers and muttered about “witch-hunts,” while anti-corruption activists hissed and demanded justice. At one point, the tension was so thick that the judge had to call for order, reminding everyone that the High Court was “not a marketplace.” Chimombe and Mpofu, once hailed as flashy entrepreneurs, have become symbols of Zimbabwe’s corruption woes. Their case involves allegations of siphoning millions through inflated government contracts, a scandal that has left taxpayers fuming. The public has grown impatient, demanding swift punishment. “We are tired of watching the rich play games with the law,” one activist shouted outside the courthouse.

Inside, the defence painted their clients as misunderstood businessmen caught in political crossfire. They pleaded for leniency, citing family responsibilities and community projects the men had funded. But prosecutors hammered back, insisting that corruption has crippled the nation and that high-profile offenders must face the full weight of justice. The judge, visibly unimpressed by the theatrics, adjourned proceedings to consider the defence’s application. That decision left the sentencing date hanging in limbo, prolonging the suspense and frustration.

Outside the court, the scene resembled a carnival of outrage. Protesters waved placards reading “No More Delays” and “Justice Now,” while others mocked the businessmen’s attempts to stall. Social media erupted with sarcastic commentary: “Chimombe and Mpofu should get Oscars for Best Performance in a Courtroom Drama,” one user quipped. The saga underscores Zimbabwe’s uphill battle against graft. Powerful figures often use legal manoeuvres to dodge accountability, leaving ordinary citizens sceptical of the justice system. For now, Chimombe and Mpofu remain free men, but the sword of sentencing hangs over their heads.