Former Tourism Minister Walter Mzembi will remain in custody after the High Court rejected his latest application for bail, ruling that he continues to pose a significant flight risk. The decision comes as Mzembi completes 73 days in detention, facing both longstanding and newly introduced allegations.
In his ruling, Justice Dembure emphasised that Mzembi had failed to provide sufficient guarantees that he would remain in the country if granted bail pending trial. The judge cited Mzembi’s previous conduct as a major factor in denying his application, noting that his past behaviour strongly suggested a risk of absconding once more.
Mzembi’s legal troubles date back to late 2017, when he left Zimbabwe amid allegations of criminal abuse of office during his tenure as Tourism Minister. He was accused of misappropriating US$1.7 million in connection with preparations for the 2013 United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly, which Zimbabwe co-hosted with Zambia. Specifically, authorities alleged that government-funded television sets and LED screens intended for the event were diverted under his supervision—a claim Mzembi has consistently denied.
Court Throws Out Mzembi’s Bail Attempt
After being formally charged, Walter was initially released on bail. However, he soon fled the country, citing the need for medical treatment in South Africa. He did not return as required, prompting the courts to declare him a fugitive and issue a warrant for his arrest. His extended absence meant that the legal proceedings remained on hold for nearly six years, with Mzembi living in self-imposed exile until his return earlier this year.
Upon his recent arrival in Zimbabwe, authorities immediately took him into custody, reinstating the original charges and initiating proceedings on new, undisclosed allegations that are still under review for formal indictment. Prosecutors argued strongly against granting bail, citing Mzembi’s prior history of absconding and the serious nature of the charges as evidence that he could not be trusted to remain in the country if released.
Justice Dembure concurred with the prosecution’s assessment, stating that the court could not ignore Mzembi’s previous disregard for bail conditions. “Given his past conduct, the court is not satisfied that the applicant will stand trial if released,” the judge ruled, highlighting the risk that Mzembi might evade justice again.
Legal observers note that the decision reflects a broader judicial concern about high-profile individuals who fail to honour court-imposed obligations. By denying bail, the High Court sought to preserve the integrity of the judicial process and ensure that Mzembi faces trial under controlled conditions.
Mzembi’s detention is expected to continue while the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) finalises investigations into the new allegations. Once the NPA concludes its review and formally files any additional charges, the case will proceed through the courts. Until then, Mzembi will remain behind bars, awaiting his next appearance.
The matter has attracted widespread attention, both within political circles and among the general public, given Mzembi’s previous prominence in government and his role in shaping Zimbabwe’s tourism sector. His arrest and subsequent detention have reignited debates over accountability for public officials and the challenges associated with prosecuting complex corruption cases.
During his time in exile, Walter maintained that the charges against him were politically motivated, asserting that he had acted in good faith while managing government resources for international events. Despite these claims, the courts have consistently prioritised the risk of flight and the need to safeguard the judicial process, rather than speculate on political motivations.
Legal analysts say that the High Court’s ruling is a reminder that past conduct—particularly involving breaches of court orders—carries significant weight when bail applications are considered. While Mzembi is entitled to continue defending himself, the ruling ensures that he remains within the legal system’s oversight until all matters, both old and new, are addressed.
The coming weeks are expected to focus on the finalisation of the new charges and preparation for trial proceedings. Until then, Mzembi will remain in custody, with the court emphasising that the primary objective is to guarantee his availability for trial and uphold the rule of law.
With the High Court’s decision, it is clear that the judiciary is taking a cautious approach in handling high-profile cases involving public officials accused of financial misconduct. Mzembi’s continued detention underscores the seriousness with which Zimbabwean courts treat flight risks and the need to maintain strict oversight over individuals facing multiple criminal allegations.
Source- ZimEye
