Tinotenda Hove – A High Court judge in Harare has thrown out former Tourism and Hospitality Minister Walter Mzembi’s application for discharge at the close of the State’s case, ruling that he must proceed to defend himself.

Benjamin Chikowero determined that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to warrant Mzembi being put to his defence.

Mzembi is facing allegations that he unlawfully donated four public viewing screens, reportedly valued at US$200,000, to several religious organisations, including United Family International Church, Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries, and Zion Christian Church.

With the discharge application dismissed, the matter now moves to the defence stage. The court has set 3 and 4 March as the dates for continuation of the trial.