Tendai Ziso

A Harare magistrate has expressed frustrations over the slow progress of the fraud and money laundering case involving businessman Shingai Levison Muringi and Rakbury Investments. Magistrate Kanjanda blamed Muringi and his legal team for deliberately delaying proceedings. This came after the latter took the stand and failed to give a testimony that was relevant to the case.

When Magistrate Kanjanda adjourned the court session for a few minutes to give Muringi’s legal team some time to put their house in order, the latter was heard saying he met the Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Walter Chikwanha, and was told to go to court and protest his rights.

Our crew went to the JSC on Monday to verify his statement. Unfortunately, Mr Chikwana was not in office when we arrived, and they were told that he would be back in office this Thursday.

During a court session which was held on 9 May, Muringi, who is accused of reversing a payment of US$85,000 for a fuel deal, was told to choose between allowing his lawyer to represent him or recuse him. This came after the businessman insisted on testifying when the Magistrate urged him to let his lawyer guide him.

Muringi’s lawyer, Claude Bare, requested for the postponement of the case to 21 May to allow him and his client to collaborate their arguments. The Magistrate postponed the case to 16 May and urged Bare to come prepared so that the case can progress.

This is not Muringi’s first brush with the law. He faces multiple cases, including allegations of selling a vehicle that was an exhibit in another fraud and money laundering case. Furthermore, Muringi is alleged to be a wanted man by the Zambian Police over fraud.

He is also embroiled in another case involving Energy Park, where he is alleged to have defrauded the company of up to US$170,000. Another case involves businessman Patrick Mutenha, also known as Chimpa, who accuses Muringi of defrauding him of $50,000.

When questioned about these allegations, Muringi responded cryptically, saying “we know who is behind what you are seeking” and claimed that a “cabinet-approved police officer from Zambia” would soon clear his name.

The case highlights Muringi’s alleged trail of deceit and raises questions about his business dealings. As the case progresses, it remains to be seen whether justice will be served.