CCC Leader Jameson Timba and 34 Activists Now Free After Receiving Wholly Suspended Sentences

The interim leader of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), Jameson Timba and 34 others are now free after receiving wholly suspended sentences from a Harare court on Wednesday.

Timba, who has been at the helm of the CCC in an acting capacity, was arrested on June 16 alongside 79 other individuals. The arrests stemmed from an alleged involvement in activities deemed unlawful by authorities. Of the 79 arrested, Timba and 34 others remained in custody and faced trial.

Magistrate’s Ruling

Delivering the judgment, Magistrate Collet Ncube emphasized the court’s consideration of the defendants’ status as first-time offenders. He underscored the importance of giving them an opportunity to rehabilitate rather than imposing punitive measures that could have adverse effects on their families and livelihoods.

ALSO READ: Four Arrested For Brutal Assault On Two Minors After Video Went Viral

Jameson Timba and others now free-Image Source@X

“The court believes that since they are first offenders, they should be given another chance. Many of them struggle to raise even the fine, and most are breadwinners with unstable sources of income. Their continued detention would only burden their families,” stated Magistrate Ncube.

Details of Sentencing

Both Jameson Timba and Jasn Kautsa were handed two-year sentences, which have been wholly suspended. This means they will not serve additional time in custody unless they commit further offenses during the suspension period. The remaining 33 individuals received varying sentences that were also wholly suspended, allowing them to return home immediately.

ALSO READ: Zimbabwean Man in Botswana Convicted for Selling Stepson in Ritual Sacrifice

The release of the activists is expected to bring relief to their families, many of whom have endured financial and emotional hardship during their incarceration. With most of the detainees identified as primary breadwinners, their detention had left dependents vulnerable, exacerbating economic struggles in already challenging circumstances.