(WiPC/IFEX) – WiPC is expressing concerns over the motives behind the detention of poet Mzwakhe and his continued denial of bail. Mzwakhe Mbuli was arrested in October 1997 near Pretoria for participating in a bank robbery. He was immediately remanded in custody and charged with armed robbery and possession of unlicensed arms. In the following […]
(WiPC/IFEX) – WiPC is expressing concerns over the motives behind the
detention of poet Mzwakhe and his continued denial of bail.
Mzwakhe Mbuli was arrested in October 1997 near Pretoria for participating
in a bank robbery. He was immediately remanded in custody and charged with
armed robbery and possession of unlicensed arms.
In the following twelve months Mbuli was denied bail three times whereas it
is believed that at least one other defendant in the same case had been
granted such a conditional release.
Mzwakhe Mbuli is pleading not guilty on all the charges and claims that a
bag containing 15,000 rands (approx. US$2,500), a gun and a hand grenade
which constitute the evidence against him, were planted on him moments
before being arrested by the police. He alleges that his arrest is motivated
by his speaking out on corruption and injustice and most particularly his
increased involvement in an anti-drug crusade.
The next hearing of Mzwakhe Mbuli’s case is due on 22 January 1999.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
that
the charges levied against him may have been brought forward in order to
suppress his right to freedom of expression
and that his bail application be reconsidered
Appeals To
Mr. D. Ohmar
Minister of Justice
Ministry of Justice
Private Bag X276
Pretoria 0001, Republic of South Africa
Fax: +27 12 321 1708cc: President Nelson Mandela
Office of the President
Private Bag X1000
Pretoria 0001, Republic of South Africa
Fax: +27 12 323 8246
e-mail: communications@po.gov.za
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
