Nine women from Watsomba in Manicaland province have found themselves in trouble after they allegedly expressed dissatisfaction towards the First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa during a donation event for foodstuffs and clothing.

The nine individuals, identified as Nester Chatiwana (41), Panashe Machekanzondo (19), Winnet Sithole (19), Maria Choto (49), Esnath Choto (33), Ellen Rujuwa (28), Faith Chidhakwa (30), Patience Matasva (35), and Joyce Mashingaidza (29), were apprehended on April 10, 2024, at Watsomba Business Centre. They were subsequently charged with disorderly conduct.

Appearing before Mutare magistrate Prisca Manhibi, they were granted bail without charge.

According to Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), the accused refuted the allegations, asserting that they were arbitrarily arrested.

“In court, prosecutors alleged that the nine women, who hail from various nearby villages, disrupted Mnangagwa’s speech by booing her, expressing their discontent for not receiving some of the items she was distributing,” said ZLHR.

Reportedly, the women, seated on the ground, stood up and voiced their dissatisfaction towards the First Lady during the conclusion of her address, aiming to disrupt her speech.

The prosecutors argued that their behavior was disrespectful and unlawful towards President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife.

Represented by Tatenda Sigauke and David Tandiri of ZLHR, the women contended that they were arrested for leaving the venue early, while Mnangagwa was still speaking.

They are scheduled to appear in court again on April 30, 2024, for routine proceedings.