New magistrates sworn in during the ceremony in Harare HARARE  – The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has sworn in 17 new magistrates as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen capacity and reduce case backlogs across Zimbabwe’s courts. The swearing-in ceremony, held in Harare on Tuesday, comes as the judiciary moves to expand the magistracy to 300 officers from the current 268. Chief magistrate Vongai Guwuriro said the recruitment drive is aimed at easing pressure on courts facing rising case volumes nationwide. “The 17 magistrates will be deployed to stations nationwide as we continue to capacitate our courts and balance workload pressures,” Guwuriro said. “We are receiving a high volume of cases, so we are matching that demand with increased staffing. Another group of magistrates is also set to graduate soon.” Zimbabwe’s magistrates’ courts handle the bulk of the country’s criminal and civil matters, making staffing levels critical to the efficiency of the justice delivery system. Guwuriro said the recruitment programme is also addressing attrition within the judiciary, as some magistrates leave the bench for other opportunities. “Some magistrates are leaving the bench, so we are addressing those gaps to ensure courts remain fully operational,” she said. To improve accountability and productivity, the JSC has implemented a performance monitoring system that tracks output across the judiciary. “Each magistrate is expected to complete at least 60 cases per month,” Guwuriro said. “We monitor performance through daily, weekly, and monthly reports to ensure efficiency.” Legal analysts say increasing the number of magistrates is key to reducing delays in the justice system, particularly in lower courts where case congestion is most acute. “Expanding the bench is essential for timely justice delivery,” said Harare-based legal expert Tendai Muchengeti. “Delays undermine public confidence in the legal system.” Of the 17 newly appointed magistrates, 12 are male. Guwuriro said the intake reflects efforts to balance gender representation , noting that women currently dominate in the lower courts. The latest appointments are part of broader judicial reforms aimed at improving access to justice, reducing case backlogs, and enhancing service delivery across Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe magistrates sworn in

Gold processing at Fidelity Gold Refinery HARARE  – The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has suspended its controversial 10% local currency retention requirement for small-scale gold miners, reverting to 100% US dollar payments following strong resistance from the sector. The policy reversal comes less than a month after the central bank introduced a 90:10 payment framework on February 27, requiring artisanal miners to receive a portion of their gold proceeds in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) . Announcing the decision after its March 24 Monetary Policy Committee meeting, RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu said the suspension was due to “implementation challenges,” particularly at Fidelity Gold Refinery , which handles gold purchases from miners. The central bank also acknowledged concerns raised by the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) , which had warned that the policy was ill-suited to the realities of Zimbabwe’s largely informal mining sector. Industry pressure played a decisive role in the policy shift. ZMF President Henrietta Rushwaya had earlier written to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, cautioning that the requirement posed “material risks” to gold production. “Forcing 10% of proceeds into ZiG reduces usable USD cash and can make marginal pits uneconomic,” the federation said in its submission. The ZMF also warned that the policy could incentivise gold smuggling and reverse gains made in formalising deliveries to official channels. Operational challenges further complicated implementation. Delayed payments and limited banking access among artisanal miners, many of whom operate outside the formal financial system, undermined the rollout of the new framework. Following engagements between the RBZ and mining representatives, authorities have now restored the previous 100% US dollar payment model while working on what the central bank described as “appropriate logistics,” including improving payment systems and financial inclusion. Despite the uncertainty, gold output has remained resilient. Industry data shows February deliveries rose by 12.1% month-on-month, suggesting continued strength in the sector. Mining analysts say the decision is critical to maintaining production momentum. “Foreign currency retention is a key incentive for small-scale miners,” said Harare-based mining economist Tafadzwa Moyo. “Any disruption to that model risks pushing gold into informal markets.” Zimbabwe’s gold sector, driven largely by artisanal and small-scale miners, remains a cornerstone of the country’s foreign currency earnings, with authorities targeting annual production of 50 tonnes. The episode underscores the delicate balancing act facing policymakers as they pursue monetary reforms while accommodating the operational realities of a largely informal but economically vital sector. RBZ gold policy Zimbabwe

Municipal police enforcement operation in Harare By Editorial Staff | Southerton Business Times HARARE  – Vendors and residents in Southerton have raised serious concerns over alleged harassment and extortion by a municipal police officer known only as “Bhuru,” amid claims that licensed traders are being targeted despite complying with city regulations. The allegations point to a breakdown in coordination within the City of Harare, particularly between the Markets Office and municipal police, with traders saying enforcement practices are undermining official policy. Policy vs Practice: Vendors Caught in the Middle Resident and tuckshop owner, Tendai Chimanikire, questioned whether city departments are working in sync, noting that traders who have paid for designated trading spaces are still being harassed. “We have people who have paid to be in certain places who still get harassed even if they have letters to operate,” he said. The concerns come despite efforts by Jacob Mafume to ease the burden on small businesses by reducing tuckshop permit fees from US$50 to US$30. Vendors argue that these reforms are being undermined on the ground by alleged rogue enforcement practices. Political Pressure Mounts The issue has drawn political attention, with Andrew Makahamadze, a ZANU-PF shadow representative for Southerton, publicly criticising the conduct of municipal officers. In remarks seen by Southerton Business Times , Makahamadze condemned what he described as abusive treatment of vendors, particularly women. “ Wadiwa Mayor His Worship Jakobhu Mafume .Kutanga ndinoti makasimba here ?kuno ku Southerton tayauriswa nemapurisa ekanzuru .Pahupenyu kutanga nhasi kuwirirana nemi pakutsutsumwa kwenyu nezviri kuitwa ne mapurisa eguta re Harare .Uumm hazvina kuita zvakanaka zvekuti dai maita chimbi chimbi kugadzirisa nyaya iyi.Vanotora vanhu kadzi vakabereka vana vachivakandira murori vari vanhu rume vanenge vakabatai pai pamunhukadzi ?Chokwadi kurerutsa vana mai kudai zvakanaka here?Vane ngoro vane matsamba vanobhadhariswa ma 3 usd pazuva kana asina anotorerwa zvinhu.Dai zvaoera nekukasika .Ndini wenyu Cde Andrew MakahamadzeZANU PF DCC Zone 6 secretary business and development. @Andrew Makahamadze Claims of Extortion Some vendors allege a pattern of informal payments being demanded to avoid harassment. A trader identified as Nigel claimed that despite operating within a designated zone and holding valid receipts, his goods have been confiscated multiple times. He further alleged that he is now forced to pay a daily “protection fee” of US$3 to continue trading without interference. These claims could not be independently verified, and the City of Harare had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication. Wider Concerns Over Enforcement The allegations follow broader public scrutiny of municipal policing practices after recent incidents, including viral footage showing enforcement officers using force during operations. Urban governance experts say such incidents risk eroding trust between authorities and informal traders, who form a significant part of Zimbabwe’s urban economy. “Consistency and transparency in enforcement are critical,” said Harare-based governance analyst Tendai Moyo. “If policy says vendors should be protected, enforcement must reflect that.” Editorial Note: Accountability and Reform As Harare pushes toward its “world-class city” ambitions, questions remain over enforcement accountability. Stakeholders say improving coordination between departments, potentially through digital systems tracking licensed vendors, could reduce disputes and protect compliant traders. For now, vendors in Southerton say they are caught between policy and practice, calling for urgent intervention to restore order and fairness. Southerton municipal police harassment

Zimbabwean short film Rise By Percy Nhara HARARE  – Zimbabwe’s creative sector is entering a defining moment, with momentum from the National Arts Merit Awards 24th Edition (NAMA) translating into global recognition and new economic opportunities. Held at the Harare International Conference Centre , this year’s awards were anchored on the theme “Fearless Creativity,” a fitting description of an industry now pushing beyond borders. From new categories such as Fashion and Digital Arts to international breakthroughs in film, Zimbabwe’s “creative economy” is shifting from local celebration to global competition. The biggest milestone this month is the qualification of the short film Rise  for the Academy Awards 2026, a first for a Zimbabwean production. Directed by Jessica Rowland and starring Tongayi Chirisa, the film was produced on a modest US$50,000 budget but filmed entirely in Zimbabwe using local talent. Industry analysts say this milestone signals a turning point. “This proves Zimbabwean creatives can meet global production standards with the right investment and skills,” said Harare-based film consultant Rudo Machingura. The success of Rise  also reinforces the role of local innovation hubs and technical training initiatives in building a competitive film industry. Beyond celebration, the 24th NAMA reflected a growing shift toward industrialisation of the arts, with creatives increasingly embracing the business side of their craft. Among the standout winners: Outstanding Musician: Jah Prayzah and Michael Mahendere Outstanding Fashion Designer: Nomakhosazana Khanyile Ncube (A Tribe Called Zimbabwe) Digital Arts Category: Marking the rise of content creators and social media-driven creativity The introduction of Digital Arts signals a formal recognition of online creators as key players in Zimbabwe’s cultural economy, an area analysts say is driving youth participation and export potential. As March closes, key international and regional opportunities are fast approaching: Visa For Music (Rabat):  Applications close March 27, 2026 Bildingship Grant: Deadline April 5, 2026 Creative industry experts warn that success at this level requires more than talent. “Artists must invest in professional branding, technical riders and export-ready portfolios,” said arts manager Tendai Chikomo. “Global platforms demand preparation.” The convergence of NAMA recognition and international breakthroughs like Rise  highlights a sector in transition from informal artistry to structured, export-driven enterprise. However, experts stress that sustainability will depend on pricing discipline, intellectual property protection, and strategic use of grants and markets. “The world is paying attention,” said Machingura. “The next step is consistency turning moments into industries.” With Zimbabwean creatives now gaining traction on global platforms, the focus is shifting from participation to competitiveness and from recognition to revenue. NAMA 24th Edition Winners 2026

Mbare Magistrates' Court in Harare, Zimbabwe HARARE  – A 44-year-old clergyman from the high-density suburb of Glen View has been sentenced to an effective nine months in prison following a harrowing case of indecent assault involving a young member of his congregation. The Mbare Magistrates’ Court  handed down the ruling this week, emphasizing that the sanctity of the church does not provide immunity from the reach of the law. To protect the identity of the 19-year-old victim, the court has withheld the pastor's name. The court heard that on December 8, 2025, the convict used his position of authority to lure the victim to the church under the guise of communal service. He reportedly approached the victim’s mother, requesting permission for the young woman to assist with cleaning the sanctuary. Once alone inside the church at approximately 10:30 am, the pastor’s conduct turned predatory. Prosecutors detailed how he forcibly hugged and caressed the victim. Despite her repeated pleas for him to stop, the clergyman persisted, fondling her breasts and genitals while professing "love" for her. The assault escalated when the pastor attempted to force the victim to touch his own genitalia. The traumatic ordeal was only interrupted by a timely knock at the church door, allowing the victim to escape. Following a report to the police by the victim’s mother, the pastor was arrested and brought before the Mbare Magistrates’ Court. The Magistrate convicted him on charges of indecent assault, handing down a 12-month custodial sentence. Total Sentence: 12 Months Suspended Portion: 3 Months (on condition of good behavior for five years) Effective Term: 9 Months at Chikurubi or Harare Central Prison. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)  issued a stern condemnation of the convict’s actions, noting that the sentencing serves as a deterrent to other community leaders. “As a respected and trusted member of the community, the pastor abused the profound trust placed in him by both the victim and her family,” the NPA stated. This case has sparked intense debate in Glen View regarding the vetting of religious leaders and the safety of "work-for-God" initiatives. Legal analysts suggest that while the sentence is significant, the psychological scars left on the victim and the congregation’s faith in leadership will require long-term healing. Glen View pastor jailed

An aerial view of Rusape in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands HARARE  – A 40-year-old salesman with Pacific Tobacco Company was robbed of US$19,530 in a daring daylight heist at Vengere Musika in Rusape, police have confirmed. The incident occurred last Wednesday afternoon at the busy marketplace, raising fresh concerns over security at commercial hubs in Manicaland. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police , five unidentified suspects targeted the victim, Kudzanai Pawananukwa, while he was attending to customers near his parked vehicle. Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Wiseman Chinyoka said the salesman had left his Toyota GD6 unlocked outside Old N Richards Shop, opposite Vengere Musika, at around 3:20 pm. “The complainant had parked his vehicle while attending to customers behind it when five unknown men approached and gained entry,” Chinyoka said. “Once inside, they took a key that had been left on the passenger seat, used it to open a safe in the vehicle, and removed US$19,530 in cash.” Police said the suspects then fled the scene in a Toyota Runnex along the Harare–Mutare Road, prompting Pawananukwa to give chase. “The pursuit continued up to the 176-kilometre peg, where the suspects turned off the main road onto a dust track,” Chinyoka said. “The suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into nearby bushland, evading capture.” The matter was reported to ZRP Rusape Central, triggering investigations. Police have since recovered the suspected getaway vehicle, which has been impounded as evidence. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the suspects. Security experts say the case highlights the risks of handling large amounts of cash in public spaces. “Criminals often target individuals believed to be carrying cash, especially in busy trading areas,” said Harare-based security analyst Shepherd Moyo. “Basic precautions such as securing vehicles and avoiding visible cash handling can significantly reduce risk.” The incident has also sparked concern among traders at Vengere Musika , one of Rusape’s busiest marketplaces, where vendors and businesses regularly handle significant cash transactions. Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid leaving vehicles unlocked or valuables unattended, particularly in high-traffic areas. Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation is encouraged to report to their nearest police station. Rusape robbery Vengere Musika theft

ZRP spokesperson Paul Nyathi HARARE  – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has pledged to protect journalists covering the upcoming public hearings on Amendment Bill No. 3 , amid concerns over potential tensions during the process. Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi made the assurance during a meeting organised by TellZim News in Harare, emphasising that media practitioners must be allowed to carry out their duties without interference. “At no point shall a journalist be attacked or harassed, either by political parties, the police, or any other security officers, while doing their work during the upcoming public hearings and at any other time,” Nyathi said. The public hearings relate to the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which has sparked debate across Zimbabwe, with civil society groups and religious organisations raising concerns over its potential implications. Nyathi acknowledged that such national processes can be highly charged, increasing risks for journalists on the ground. “We do not want to end up having reports of journalists being assaulted or harassed,” he said. “Now that you have brought it to our attention, we will definitely engage and give feedback in the next few days.” He added that the police would coordinate closely with the Parliament of Zimbabwe to ensure journalists are properly accredited and protected throughout the hearings. The ZRP will also liaise with Parliament’s Public Relations and Communications Department as well as the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services to streamline support for reporters covering the proceedings. Media analysts say the commitment is a positive signal, particularly given past concerns over the safety of journalists during politically sensitive events. “Public hearings are a cornerstone of democratic participation, and media coverage is essential,” said Harare-based media expert Tafadzwa Chikowore. “Ensuring journalist safety helps promote transparency and accountability.” Zimbabwe has, in recent years, faced scrutiny from press freedom advocates over incidents involving the harassment of journalists, particularly during elections and protests. Nyathi’s remarks come as stakeholders prepare for nationwide consultations on the proposed constitutional changes, with media coverage expected to play a central role in informing the public. The ZRP said it remains committed to upholding law and order while safeguarding the rights of all citizens, including members of the media.   Public hearings on Amendment Bill No. 3 ZRP journalist safety

India’s ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramah Kumar HARARE   – Zimbabwe and India are stepping up efforts to transform long-standing diplomatic relations into tangible economic benefits, with officials and business leaders calling for increased trade, investment, and industrial cooperation. The renewed push emerged at a high-level seminar hosted by the Embassy of India in Zimbabwe and the Southern African Research and Documentation Centre at the Hyatt Regency Harare, The Meikles. Stakeholders at the meeting said the focus must now shift from political goodwill to measurable economic outcomes, as trade volumes between the two countries remain below potential. SARDC executive director Munetsi Madakufamba said current trade levels do not reflect the strength of bilateral ties. “Trade remains modest, the structure is uneven, and outcomes do not reflect the relationship we often speak about,” Madakufamba said. He highlighted a persistent imbalance in the trade relationship, with Zimbabwe largely exporting raw materials while importing finished goods from India. “This model limits value addition locally and constrains industrial growth,” he said, urging policymakers to align Zimbabwe’s production capacity with India’s expanding market demand. India’s ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramah Kumar, said Indian investment in Zimbabwe has already surpassed US$600 million, with more than 25 Indian companies operating in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and services. However, Kumar stressed that stronger frameworks are needed to unlock further growth. “Government-to-government frameworks are essential to unlock stronger business-to-business relations,” he said. Economic analysts say the Zimbabwe–India corridor presents significant opportunities, particularly in value addition and industrialisation. Priority sectors identified at the seminar include pharmaceuticals, mining beneficiation, and agro-processing areas, seen as critical to Zimbabwe’s economic transformation agenda. Experts note that India’s global strength in pharmaceuticals and manufacturing could help Zimbabwe develop local industries, reduce imports, and create jobs. Madakufamba also called for the faster implementation of existing bilateral agreements and better utilisation of investment platforms such as the Mutapa Investment Fund. “The opportunity is clear. The focus now must be on execution deliberately, consistently and at scale,” he said. Zimbabwe and India have maintained close diplomatic relations for decades, but policymakers say the next phase must prioritise trade expansion, industrial investment, and technology transfer. With both countries seeking to strengthen economic resilience, stakeholders say converting goodwill into concrete projects will be key to unlocking the full potential of the partnership. Zimbabwe India trade relations; SARDC economic seminar

Mberengwa East MP Tasara Hungwe Mberengwa East MP Tasara Hungwe is under investigation for allegedly diverting more than ZiG1.3 million from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) , in a case that raises fresh concerns over accountability in public funds management. Tasara Hungwe , the Member of Parliament for Mberengwa East, is accused of moving funds shortly after they were disbursed by the Parliament of Zimbabwe in August 2025. According to documents seen by local media, Mberengwa East constituency received ZiG1,341,500 (approximately US$53,000) under the CDF on August 14, 2025. Investigators allege that soon after the disbursement, Hungwe transferred ZiG799,641.32 to Tatiude (Pvt) Ltd and ZiG440,171.37 to Matquick Hardware (Pvt) Ltd—both companies reportedly linked to him. The funds were then allegedly moved to Simbaramabwe Construction and Hardware (Pvt) Ltd before being channelled to Success Microfinance, where investigators say the money trail becomes unclear. Authorities suspect the funds were converted and paid out in United States dollars. The probe is being led by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, with support from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Financial Intelligence Unit. Sources familiar with the investigation claim ZACC had planned to arrest Hungwe last week, but the move was reportedly halted following intervention by a senior ruling party official. ZACC has declined to comment on the matter. Hungwe has denied any wrongdoing, insisting he can account for the funds, but has reportedly not provided details on the companies involved, the constituency committee members overseeing the fund, or the specific projects financed. The CDF is designed to support development projects at the constituency level, with funds managed through a local committee comprising the area senator, proportional representation MP, councillors, and traditional leaders. Expenditure is expected to be tied to pre-approved community projects. Governance experts say the case highlights persistent transparency gaps in the management of constituency funds. “The CDF is meant to directly benefit communities, so any diversion undermines public trust and service delivery,” said Harare-based governance analyst Tendai Moyo. “There is a need for stronger oversight and public disclosure mechanisms.” Hungwe, elected to Parliament in 2023, is serving his first term. He is the second ZANU-PF MP to face scrutiny over CDF funds this year. In January, Darlington Chiwa was arrested by ZACC over allegations of diverting nearly ZiG990,000 from his constituency account. Chiwa is accused of spending the funds on personal expenses, including groceries, clothing, and building materials, with only a fraction reportedly used for community projects. His case remains before the courts. The latest allegations are likely to intensify calls for tighter controls and accountability in the use of public funds allocated to lawmakers. Tasara Hungwe CDF scandal

Mohamed Salah HARARE  – Mohamed Salah will bring an end to his glittering career with Liverpool FC at the close of the 2025–26 season, marking the conclusion of one of the most successful eras in the club’s modern history. The Egyptian forward has reached an agreement with the club to depart after nine years at Anfield, opting to announce his decision early out of respect for supporters. Salah said he wanted fans to have clarity about his future as the season progresses, allowing them to fully appreciate what will be his final months in a Liverpool shirt. Since joining AS Roma in 2017, Salah has established himself as a club legend, playing a central role in Liverpool’s resurgence as a domestic and European powerhouse. During his time at Anfield, he helped deliver a string of major honours, including two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Cup, two League Cups, and a Community Shield. Salah’s individual record has been equally remarkable. With 255 goals in 435 appearances, he currently ranks third on Liverpool’s all-time scori ng list, cementing his status among the club’s greatest-ever players. He has also claimed the Premier League Golden Boot four times, alongside numerous individual accolades recognising his consistency and impact at the highest level. Mohamed Salah celebrating a goal for Liverpool at Anfield Football analysts say Salah’s departure will mark the end of a defining era for Liverpool. “Few players have combined longevity, consistency, and elite performance the way Salah has,” said UK-based football analyst Jamie Carrington. “He’s not just a Liverpool great, he’s a Premier League icon.” Despite the announcement, Salah remains focused on finishing the current campaign strongly, with Liverpool still competing for honours this season. The club is expected to organise tributes and celebrations later in the year as fans prepare to bid farewell to one of Anfield’s most iconic figures. For supporters, the coming months will offer a final opportunity to witness a player whose legacy has been built on goals, trophies, and unwavering excellence. Mo Salah's incredible trophy cabinet Mohamed Salah Liverpool exit

Tel Aviv Mayor Says Building Damaged in 'Direct' Hit After Iran Missile Warning HARARE  – The conflict between Israel and Iran intensified on Tuesday, with both sides launching fresh attacks that have widened the regional fallout across the Middle East. Israel said it carried out an “extensive series” of airstrikes targeting Iranian production facilities, though it did not provide specific details. Explosions were reported across Tehran, with a massive blast heard in northern neighbourhoods and another in the city centre, according to eyewitness accounts. In retaliation, Iran launched multiple waves of missiles towards Israel in the early hours of Tuesday. One missile carrying a 100kg warhead struck a central street in Tel Aviv after evading air defence systems. The blast shattered windows in nearby apartment buildings and sent plumes of smoke into the air. Emergency services said four people sustained minor injuries. The escalation has had ripple effects across the Gulf region. In Kuwait, falling air defence debris damaged power lines, causing temporary electricity outages. Sirens also sounded in Bahrain, while the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence said its systems intercepted ballistic missiles and drones. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reported destroying 19 drones targeting its oil-rich Eastern Province, underscoring fears of a broader regional conflict. Israel also intensified strikes in Beirut, particularly in the southern suburbs, saying it was targeting infrastructure linked to Hezbollah, the Iran-backed armed group. Lebanese authorities said an airstrike on a residential building southeast of the capital killed at least three people, including a three-year-old child. Additional strikes in southern Lebanon left five more people dead, according to the Health Ministry. Diplomatic tensions have also worsened. Lebanon has declared Iran’s ambassador persona non grata, ordering him to leave the country by Sunday. The move reflects deteriorating relations, with Lebanese officials accusing Tehran of fuelling instability and dragging the country into conflict. Iranian flights have also been barred from landing in Lebanon amid fears they could be transporting weapons or financial support for Hezbollah. Israel has previously stated that some of its operations in Lebanon are aimed at members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard operating in the country. The humanitarian toll continues to rise sharply. Authorities report that more than 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon, with over one million displaced. Iran’s Health Ministry says fatalities there have surpassed 1,500, while 15 people have been killed in Israel due to Iranian strikes. In addition, at least 13 United States military personnel and more than a dozen civilians in the occupied West Bank and Gulf states have also been killed, highlighting the growing international dimension of the conflict. Analysts warn that the pace and scale of the latest exchanges mark a dangerous escalation with the potential to trigger a wider regional war if diplomatic efforts fail to contain the crisis. Israel Iran conflict 2026

FILE - Bill Cosby arrives at court to face a felony charge of aggravated indecent assault. A California court has awarded US$19.25 million in damages to a woman who accused veteran actor and comedian Bill Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting her in the early 1970s. The civil case was brought by Donna Motsinger , now in her 80s, who told the court the incident occurred in 1972 after Cosby allegedly offered her a drink and a tablet she believed to be harmless. According to court filings, Motsinger said she quickly lost control of her body and drifted in and out of consciousness. “I remember flashes,” she stated in legal documents, describing fragmented recollections before later waking up at home with signs she had been sexually assaulted. The jury awarded damages totalling US$19.25 million, with a separate decision on potential additional penalties still pending. Cosby, 88, denied the allegations. His legal team argued that the claim lacked a clear and consistent recollection of events and maintained that no assault took place. Defense attorney Jennifer Bonjean said the comedian intends to challenge the verdict. “We strongly disagree with the outcome and will pursue further legal remedies,” Bonjean said in a statement following the ruling. The decision marks the latest development in a series of legal battles involving Cosby, whose reputation was severely damaged after dozens of women came forward over the years with similar allegations of sexual misconduct. Legal analysts say civil cases such as this often hinge on patterns of behaviour and corroborating testimony, even when events occurred decades earlier. “Courts in civil matters apply a different standard of proof than criminal cases,” said US-based legal expert Daniel Harper. “Historical allegations can still succeed where there is persuasive evidence and consistency across testimonies.” Cosby has consistently denied all allegations, maintaining that his past relationships were consensual. In 2021, he was released from prison after his conviction in a separate sexual assault case in Pennsylvania was overturned due to a legal technicality, nearly three years into his sentence. The latest ruling underscores the enduring legal and reputational consequences stemming from decades-old allegations, as survivors continue to pursue justice through civil courts. Bill Cosby lawsuit