State to oppose bail for Mugabe’s son as attempted murder case unfolds

The State says it will oppose bail for the son of late former Zimbabwean leader, Robert Mugabe, setting the stage for a high-profile legal battle in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court.

Twenty-eight-year-old, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, and his 33-year-old co-accused, Tobias Mugabe Matonhdze, made their first court appearance on Monday on charges of attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and defeating the ends of justice.

Their appearance was marked by confusion and heightened media attention after the pair were mistakenly transported to the Randburg Magistrates’ Court before being redirected to Alexandra.

Police allege a 23-year-old employee of the Mugabe family was shot following a dispute reportedly linked to absenteeism. The victim remains in critical condition in hospital.

In court, the State confirmed it intends to rely on the doctrine of common purpose, meaning both accused will be held jointly liable for the attempted murder charge. Prosecutors further allege that a firearm used in the incident was later concealed, forming the basis of the charge of defeating or obstructing the course of justice.

State prosecutor, Lufuno Maphiri, told the court the State will oppose bail, citing ongoing investigations and the need to verify the accused’s status in South Africa.

The matter has been postponed to 3 March for a formal bail application.

Outside court, the defence argued that bail proceedings could not meaningfully proceed at this stage.

Defence lawyer, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, said the defence were unable to respond to the charges as certain aspects of the case, including additional charges were only recently brought to their attention. He added that verification processes involving various government departments were still underway.

Mnguni confirmed that senior counsel will argue the formal bail application on the next court date.

For now, Mugabe and his co-accused will remain behind bars as the State prepares to oppose their release in what is expected to be a closely watched bail hearing.

The matter has been postponed to 3 March for a formal bail application.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe