Staff ReporterThree prominent Zimbabwean rights activists have been released on bail after a successful appeal to the High Court in Harare.
Robson Chere, Namatai Kwekweza and Samuel Gwenzi were set free by High Court Judge Benjamin Chikowero on Wednesday, following their second appeal attempt.
The court ordered each activist to pay US$150 (£118) as part of their bail conditions.
According to legal sources, the State had consented to the trio being granted bail, a move that likely influenced the court’s decision.
Bail conditions
As part of their release, the activists must adhere to several conditions:
They are prohibited from interfering with witnesses
They must continue residing at their provided addresses
They are required to report to the police on the last Friday of each month
The case has drawn attention from human rights organisations both within Zimbabwe and internationally, with many calling for greater respect for civil liberties in the country.
The activists’ initial arrest and detention had sparked concerns about the state of freedom of expression and assembly in Zimbabwe.
It remains unclear what charges the three are facing or when their next court appearance will be scheduled.
Human rights lawyers in Harare have welcomed the decision but stress that the fight for justice is far from over.
“This is a positive step, but we must remember that being granted bail is not the same as being acquitted,” said a spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.
As the case continues to unfold, many will be watching closely to see how it might impact the broader landscape of civil society and activism in Zimbabwe.
