Job Sikhala Vindicated as High Court Declares Him Innocent

The High Court has reversed the conviction of Job Sikhala, declaring him innocent of the charge of obstructing justice. However, despite this ruling, Wiwa will remain in custody due to another pending charge.

Illegal Conviction and Sentencing: High Court’s Verdict

The news of Wiwa’s acquittal was confirmed by Gift Ostallos Siziba, the deputy spokesperson for the CCC. Siziba stated that the High Court of Zimbabwe deemed both the conviction and sentencing of Hon Sikhala as illegal. “The High Court of Zimbabwe has ruled that both the conviction and sentencing of Hon Job Sikhala is illegal. He was falsely convicted by the magistrate court. He is a political prisoner and must be released,” stated Ostallos.

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A Lengthy Incarceration: Job Sikhala’s Ordeal

Wiwa has been behind bars since his arrest last year, stemming from his advocacy on behalf of a supporter of the opposition CCC, Moreblessing Ali, who was tragically murdered by a member of ZANUPF. Wiwa, acting as the family’s lawyer, spoke out on their behalf.

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A History of Political Persecution: Arrests without Conviction

Wiwa’s case highlights a troubling pattern of political persecution. Despite being arrested a staggering 67 times, Job has never been convicted. This places him among the ranks of Dumiso Dabengwa and Lookout Masuku as one of the longest-serving political prisoners at Chikurubi Maximum Prison, enduring incarceration without conviction.

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Conclusion

The High Court’s ruling, absolving Job Sikhala of the charge of obstructing justice, underscores the flaws in the previous conviction. However, Sikhala’s continued detention on another charge keeps him entangled in legal proceedings.