A Bulawayo-based provincial magistrate, Evia Matura (47), has been sentenced to an effective 18 months in prison after being convicted of criminal abuse of duty.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), Matura unlawfully ordered the release of a remand prisoner while serving at Tredgold Magistrates’ Court.
The case stems from June 2025, when Matura denied bail to Obert Manduna, who was later held at Khami Remand Prison.
However, on July 2, 2025, during a routine court appearance, Matura reportedly ordered Manduna’s release without a new bail application or High Court directive, despite both the State and defence agreeing to a postponement.
Prosecutors argued that her actions were deliberate, unlawful, and undermined the integrity of the justice system.
The court sentenced her to 24 months imprisonment, with 6 months suspended for 5 years, leaving an effective 18-month custodial sentence.
Authorities say the ruling reinforces the importance of accountability and integrity within the judiciary.
