Harare regional magistrate Francis Mapfumo has denied bail to Kelsea Tadiwa Tafirenyika, saying the 22-year-old has the financial means to sustain herself anywhere in the world and could therefore evade trial if released.
Tafirenyika, the daughter-in-law of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is facing allegations of money laundering involving US$9 million, as well as drug-possession charges.
In rejecting the bail application, Mapfumo reportedly described Tafirenyika as “liquid”, raising concern that her financial resources could make it difficult for the court to ensure that she remains within Zimbabwe’s jurisdiction until the case is concluded.
The ruling delivers a damaging blow to Tafirenyika’s bid for freedom and places renewed focus on the scale of the wealth allegedly linked to the case.
Tafirenyika is the second wife of Collins Mnangagwa, the President’s twin son. She was arrested on August 4 after police accused her of acquiring properties using proceeds allegedly generated through drug dealing. Her defence has reportedly maintained that the properties were purchased for her by Collins.
The case comes amid tensions within the First Family. Barely a week before the bail ruling, Tafirenyika’s lawyers, Admire Rubaya and Everson Chatambudza, wrote to First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa seeking an amicable resolution to a dispute involving members of the family.
In the letter, the lawyers denied that their client had participated in any campaign to tarnish the First Family’s image. They said Tafirenyika was “very sorry that this issue has escalated to such great heights” and “profusely apologises for what has befallen the name of the first family”.
The lawyers also said their client had reflected on the events and was prepared to take steps towards resolving the dispute. They blamed the allegations on “others, opportunists, detractors and adversaries of the first family”.
The letter followed reports that the First Lady had confronted Tafirenyika’s mother, Amina Jessub Arab, over claims involving Collins and assets allegedly valued at more than US$10 million.
Tafirenyika’s mother, sister and aunt are separately facing drug-related charges.
The State’s allegations have not yet been tested at trial, and Tafirenyika remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court.
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