Former Minister Prisca Mupfumira Acquitted of US$90 Million NSSA Corruption Allegations

Prisca Mupfumira, the former Zimbabwean Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, has been acquitted of accusations related to the alleged misappropriation of US$90 million from the National Social Security Authority (NSSA).

Deputy Chief Magistrate Ngoni Nduna delivered the verdict, officially absolving Mupfumira of all charges. These charges originated from claims that she had unduly influenced NSSA to enter into a partnership with Drawcard, a land development company, bypassing the standard tender procedures.

Key Points of the Ruling of the case

Magistrate Nduna’s ruling underscored the fact that Mupfumira was not a part of the NSSA Board. Thus, she could not be held liable for its decisions. He criticized the state’s persistence in prosecuting her despite clear indications of her non-involvement in the decision-making process related to the NSSA’s dealings with Drawcard.

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The court also pointed out shortcomings within NSSA’s legal department, noting their failure to provide the board with appropriate guidance on procurement laws.

Prisca Mupfumira acquitted of all charges-Image Source@X

Mupfumira’s Defense and Acquittal

Represented by attorneys Rubaya and Chatambudza, Mupfumira consistently proclaimed her innocence throughout the trial. She described herself as a target of political retribution because of her allegiance to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The court concurred with her defence, citing a lack of evidence linking her to any unlawful activities or personal gain from the alleged transactions with Drawcard.

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Earlier in the trial, Mupfumira’s co-accused, Barnabas Matongera, was discharged due to insufficient evidence against him. This decision further highlighted the prosecutorial weaknesses in the case.

Mupfumira’s acquittal brings to a close a prolonged legal ordeal, during which she vehemently denied all accusations. She argued that the charges were politically motivated rather than grounded in concrete legal concerns.