Mudzi West Member of Parliament Cde Knowledge Kaitano of ZANU PF has been acquitted of two counts of indecent assault after a trial that concluded this week at the Marondera Magistrates Court.
The charges, which stemmed from allegations made by an 18-year-old woman, were dismissed after the court found no credible evidence to substantiate the claims.
The Allegations
The accusations against Cde Kaitano, a prominent figure in Mudzi, surfaced after the teenager—who was one of the many students receiving financial assistance from the MP for her education—claimed that he had touched her inappropriately.
She alleged that Cde Kaitano had caressed her thigh, touched her shoulder, and kissed her without consent. The teenager reported these incidents, which led to the MP’s arrest and subsequent trial.
The Trial and Defence
At the Marondera Magistrates Court, Cde Kaitano was represented by lawyer Mr. Kudakwashe Masiyenyama, who vigorously defended the MP, arguing that the allegations were baseless and politically motivated.
Masiyenyama contended that the charges had been fabricated by rivals seeking to tarnish Cde Kaitano’s reputation and undermine his political career.
The trial saw testimonies from several witnesses, but crucial inconsistencies in the teenager’s account of events were revealed during cross-examination.
Specifically, she had given conflicting statements about the presence of another person at the scene of the alleged incidents, which raised doubts about the credibility of her story.
Court’s Decision
Magistrate Ms. Tamara Chidindi, after reviewing the evidence presented, concluded that the allegations were not substantiated by reliable evidence.
The court found that the inconsistencies in the teenager’s testimony, along with a lack of corroborating evidence, led to the acquittal of Cde Kaitano on both counts of indecent assault.
Following the ruling, Cde Kaitano maintained that the charges against him were part of a politically motivated campaign to discredit him.
In a statement to the press, he expressed relief at the court’s decision, reaffirming his innocence.
“This was a difficult period for me, but I have always maintained my innocence. These allegations were a clear attempt by political opponents to tarnish my name. I am grateful that justice has prevailed,” he said.
Political Implications
The case, which attracted significant media attention, has had political ramifications in Mudzi West. Cde Kaitano has been a controversial figure, known for his outspoken views and active role in local politics.
His acquittal comes as a significant victory in the face of serious allegations that had threatened his political career.
Despite the acquittal, some observers believe the case could have lasting effects on the MP’s standing within the political community, with his rivals potentially using the allegations as a tool for future attacks.
However, for now, Cde Kaitano can breathe a sigh of relief as he continues to serve his constituents, having successfully cleared his name.
The court’s decision marks the end of a challenging chapter for the Mudzi West legislator, who has faced months of intense scrutiny since the charges were first made.
