A Zimbabwean court has sentenced an opposition leader to six months in prison or a $300 fine for verbally attacking a Russian businesswoman.
Sheriff Vongai Guwuriro has ruled that Zimbabwe’s former finance minister Tendai Biti must pay a fine or face jail, ending the relationship between Biti and Tatiana Ale Tatiana Aleshina, whom court documents describe as a Russian investor.
Bit paid the fine.
Beatty’s lawyer Alec Mukadhama told reporters outside Harare Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday that Beatty would appeal the sentence and conviction.
“Both myself and Tendai Biti are very disappointed with the verdict, but I am not surprised by it. [conviction],” he said. “That’s why we’re appealing to the High Court and we have various grounds which we will outline in the grounds of appeal. “
State prosecutors accuse Biti of calling Aleshina “stupid” in 2020 and pointing the finger at her. Biti denies the accusation of verbal assault.
Aleshina said the ruling was a victory for women.
“Zimbabwe got justice, even if it took four years. But I learned a lot. I realized that if we women cannot stand up for our rights, justice will not be done,” she said. “I have nothing to do with Tendai Biti or anyone, but let him learn a good lesson – respect women, not just women, but respect for everyone in this country.”
Alesina’s supporters outside court said Beatty should be given the option of not being fined and sent to jail, while Beatty’s supporters said calling someone “stupid” a punishment was unfair.
Agnes Togarepi said Beatty was innocent.
“How many times have you called someone ‘stupid’ or even ‘idiot’? Is it a crime to point your finger at someone?” she asked.
Beatty is the deputy chairman of Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, Citizens Alliance for Change.
His colleague Job Sikhala spent nearly two years in jail and will be sentenced to nine months’ probation if he pays a $500 fine by March 4. He was convicted of publishing false information.
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