Zimbabwe VP’s Ex-Wife Freed After Seven Years on Remand in Attempted Murder Case

Marry Mubaiwa, the former wife of Zimbabwean Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, has been released from remand after spending seven years facing trial over allegations that she attempted to murder him.

Mubaiwa was charged in 2019 after Chiwenga, then her husband, accused her of trying to obstruct his medical treatment while he was hospitalised in South Africa.

According to Zimbabwe’s state-owned newspaper, The Herald, a magistrate ordered her release, citing the mental, physical and financial prejudice she had suffered during the prolonged trial.

The ruling came after the prosecution requested a one-month postponement to engage witnesses.

Lawyer says ruling came too late

Mubaiwa’s lawyer welcomed the decision but described it as a victory that had come too late, arguing that the lengthy proceedings had violated her client’s rights.

Speaking outside court in Harare on Tuesday, the lawyer said the defence would respond appropriately if the state decided to pursue a fresh trial.

She indicated that they would deal with any such move if and when it arose.

Mubaiwa’s release brings a significant development in a case that has kept her facing criminal proceedings since 2019.

Allegations against Mubaiwa

The former vice-president’s wife was accused of attempting to kill Chiwenga while he was receiving medical treatment in Pretoria, South Africa.

Chiwenga subsequently travelled to China, where he underwent treatment for four months.

Mubaiwa was remanded in custody and denied bail as the case proceeded.

According to the New Zimbabwe news website, Mubaiwa celebrated outside the court following her release, declaring that justice had been achieved and expressing pride in her lawyer.

Chiwenga’s political history

Chiwenga played a key role in the 2017 military intervention that led to the removal of then-President Robert Mugabe, ending his nearly four decades in power.