LEGAL DELAY: Tendai Biti and Morgan Ncube Trial Postponed to May

MUTARE — The trial of prominent lawyer, former Finance Minister, and Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF) convener, Tendai Biti, alongside former Beitbridge Mayor Morgan Ncube, has been deferred to May 26, 2026. The postponement was granted this past Monday by Mutare Magistrate Honest Musiiwa, following an application by the State, which indicated that the prosecution was not yet prepared to proceed with the case.

Biti and Ncube are jointly charged with violating Section 7(5) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act [Chapter 11:23]. The charges stem from an allegation that the pair convened a public meeting without the mandatory prior notification to the local regulating authority. The State alleges that on March 21, 2026, the two hosted a gathering at 26B Carrington, Darlington, Mutare—a venue frequently associated with opposition-aligned activities. Prosecutors contend that approximately 30 individuals, including a member of the press, were present at the meeting. The core of the accusation is that the discussions centered on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, and that the organizers failed to secure the necessary clearance from the Mutare Central District Regulating Authority.

The two accused remain out of custody, having previously been granted bail set at US$500 each. The court confirmed that their existing bail conditions will remain in effect until the trial resumes next month. The defense is being led by Chris Ndlovu of Gonese and Ndlovu Practitioners, while the State is represented by prosecutor Brighton Chiromo.

As the matter now moves to late May, legal observers will be watching closely to see how the court navigates the balance between the constitutional right to assembly and the administrative requirements set out in the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for how similar public meetings and civic advocacy sessions are conducted across the country.

Tendai Biti trial postponement 2026