Fugitive former Cabinet Minister Saviour Kasukuwere is facing two outstanding arrest warrants issued long before he announced his plans to run for president, despite his claims of political persecution.
Kasukuwere, who is living in South Africa, has tried to portray the charges against him as politically motivated. But police say two arrest warrants were issued in early 2019, months before he entered the presidential race.
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On January 18, 2019, retired magistrate Hosea Mujaya issued a warrant for Kasukuwere’s arrest after he failed to show up for his trial on four counts of criminal abuse of office.
A second warrant was issued when Kasukuwere did not return his passport to the clerk of court as agreed.
However, Kasukuwere has been attempting to paint a picture of victimization by the Zimbabwean government and said he fears being arrested if he returns to campaign.
But police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed the two outstanding warrants, saying:”We have two warrants of arrest that have not been cancelled yet.”
He confirmed the first was issued in January 2019 when Kasukuwere failed to appear in court, while the second relates to his failure to return his passport.
Nyathi said police are ready to execute the warrants if Kasukuwere returns.
Justice Ministry permanent secretary Virginia Mabhiza told Kasukuwere to submit himself to the law: “When someone is issued with a warrant of arrest, they should submit before the law.”
She advised his lawyers to seek cancellation of the warrants, saying:”His submission to the law is standard procedure.”
The facts suggest Kasukuwere faces legal problems, not political persecution, despite his claims.
