afrol News, 28 September - Zimbabwean human rights activist, Jestina Mukoko and her co-accused have finally been set free by the country's Supreme Court.

Ms Mukoko and eight other defendants were facing charges of trying to overthrow Robert Mugabe's government. She has been in and out of jail since last year.

Her final release only comes some seven months since the formation of the unity government between the ruling ZANU-PF of Mr Mugabe and the opposition factions of Morgan Tsvangirai and Authur Mutambara.

Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku of the Supreme Court today issued a permanent stay of prosecution for the activitis saying their constitutional rights had been violated.

The courts decision has been hailed by both legal practitioners and human rights groups as a victory and a sign that afterall, the Zimbabwean unity government might as well work.

Mr Mugabe has been in power since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. His government however became ruthless with the opposition as it became apparent he was losing support and power, further plunging the country into a record economic slide.

Since the formation of the unity government early this year, Zimbabwe's neighbours have been out knocking on international doors for the country to be recongnised and helped out of its economic and political misery.

Western powers have however been reluctant to immediately lift sanctions against Mr Mugabe and his cronies citing suspicions and lack of trust on the workability of the new arrangement. On his part, Mr Mugabe has blast the West for the making of all the down-happenings of Zimbabwe.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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