Mugabe’s son abandons bail bid as defence weighs plea deal

The son of former Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe, and his co-accused have abandoned their bail application, as the defence considers entering into plea negotiations with the State.

Bellarmine Mugabe (28) and Tobias Mugabe Matonhodze (33) appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday in connection with last month’s shooting of a gardener (23) at Mugabe’s Hyde Park home in Johannesburg.

The pair had initially been expected to formally apply for bail. However, the defence informed the court that it did not want to prolong bail proceedings while considering whether the matter could be resolved through plea discussions.

Their lawyer, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, said the decision follows ongoing consultations with both accused.

He added that engagements with the accused are still underway and that all legal options remain open at this stage.

The two face multiple charges, including attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, pointing a firearm, defeating the ends of justice and contravening the Immigration Act.

The matter has been postponed to 17 March for further proceedings.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe