The case, which
began on September 23, 2025 at the Kezi Magistrates Court, drew parents,
community leaders, and rights defenders demanding justice for the
schoolchildren allegedly beaten during a May 21 “crime awareness campaign” at
the school.
The officers
face charges of assault under Section 89 (1), paragraph 8 of the Criminal Law
(Codification and Reform) Act after allegedly injuring scores of pupils.
However, the
three accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Four of the 13
children subjected to the assault gave testimony on the first day, undergoing
lengthy cross-examinations from both the state and the defence.
The remaining
nine children were scheduled to testify on September 29, but will now appear in
court on October 6, 2025, as the accused officers’ lawyer Taboka Nyathi “called
in sick.”
The children’s
testimonies are likely to be a critical part of the proceedings.
During the
initial hearing, Magistrate Busani Sibanda presided over the proceedings, with
Prosecutor Nkosi Nzima representing the state while the children’s parents were
represented by the Christian Legal Society.
The May
incident sparked widespread outrage across Matabeleland South, with many
parents calling for accountability.
Parents at the
court expressed frustration at the delay but remain determined to see the case
through.
“We have no
choice because we want justice for our children,” said one mother, who
requested anonymity. CITE
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