By Staff Reporter

Harare Regional Magistrate Vongai Guwuriro Muchuchuti has imposed a $300 fine on former Finance Minister Tendai Biti for verbally assaulting controversial businessman Ken Sharpe’s aide Tatiana Aleshina outside the Harare Magistrates court in 2020.

In her ruling Guwuriro acknowledged Biti’s positive contributions to the community, citing various instances of good work.

However, she emphasized that the accused is not a first offender, as a six-month suspended sentence indicates a previous transgression.

Given Biti’s legal background, the court underscored his responsibility to remain composed, especially in dealing with clients.

Guwuroro also expressed disappointment that Biti failed to recognize the complainant’s lack of familiarity with court procedures, contributing to the unnecessary waste of the court’s time.

While there was no physical assault, the court deemed imprisonment too harsh and dismissed community service as an appropriate punishment. Notably, Biti apologized during proceedings, a factor considered by the court in its decision.

Biti’s lawyer, Alec Muchadehama told journalists outside the court that will appeal against both conviction and sentence.

“I can assure you that we are going to appeal against both conviction and sentence. We already have the draft appeal and by tomorrow this time the appeal will have filed. I must indicate to the court that both myself and Tendai Biti are extremely disappointed with the conviction, but not surprised that it has come to that, and this is why we are going to appeal to the High Court,” said Muchadehama.