The high-profile ZWL137 million fraud case brought by former Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor Dr. Gideon Gono against business associates Clark Clever Makoni and Beverly Aisha Ndonda Makoni took a significant blow today, with the court raising doubts over the integrity of the charges and key witness testimony.
In an unexpected twist, George Mashonganyika, representing Dr. Gono’s company, Galmex Private Limited, could not adequately respond to questions from the defense, suggesting that Dr. Gono should testify himself to clarify key details.
The ongoing trial, presided over by Harare Magistrate Stanford Mambanje, has attracted considerable attention as the state has struggled to maintain a consistent case against the Makonis.
During today’s proceedings, defense lawyer Admire Rubaya aggressively challenged Mashonganyika’s legitimacy as a witness, questioning his authority to speak on behalf of Valley Lodge.
Mashonganyika could not provide documentation proving his role, leading Rubaya to highlight issues regarding his credibility and relevance to the case.
This hearing marks the latest setback for the prosecution, following an earlier court appearance where Magistrate Sharon Rakafa dismissed similar charges due to procedural concerns.
Prosecutor Sithembiso Moyo had conceded at the time that insufficient evidence existed to proceed, resulting in the withdrawal of charges.
The defense’s cross-examination today emphasized these apparent weaknesses, with Rubaya asserting that the state’s handling of the case has been flawed from the outset.
Mashonganyika’s failure to produce evidence or answer critical questions about his involvement has further undermined the case, with Rubaya arguing that the inconsistencies cast serious doubt on the prosecution’s readiness.
The defense’s line of questioning intensified when Mashonganyika, under pressure, admitted that Dr. Gono himself would need to provide key evidence for the case to advance.
The trial is set to resume on October 30, 2024, when the court will continue hearing evidence as the defense presses for further clarity on the charges and witness credibility.
As it stands, the prosecution faces an uphill battle, with calls growing for Dr. Gono to personally address the allegations in court if he intends to substantiate his claims.
