ARTUZ Leader Granted $2000rtgs Bail

By Martha Leboho.

MASVINGO magistrate has granted $2000rtgs bail for teacher’s union leader who was sentenced to 16 months prison term for participating in a peaceful demonstration against salaries.

Shilla Chisirimunhu, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz)’s Masvingo provincial gender and welfare secretary, had six months of her sentence suspended by magistrate Mbonisi Ndlovu and was serving effective 10 months of her sentence at Mutimurefu prison.

Justice Wamambo granted her $2000rtgs bail and ordered her to reside at 199 zaka street until the matter is finalised.

Chisirimunhu is supposed to report at Masvingo central police station every last friday of the month between 6am and 6pm and she must not intefere with state witnesses.

Her co-accused, Artuz president Obert Masaraure was, however, acquitted.

They were both charged with violating section 37 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act (chapter 9:23) for participating in a gathering with the intent to cause public violence, breach peace or bigotry.

Her lawyer Martin Mureri said the magistrate erred in that the demonstration was peaceful, and was allowed in terms of the Constitution.

He said the magistrate would have considered fine or community service than a harsh sentence.

Teachers are demanding a US$520 salary or equivalent per month.