Former Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Mzembi Denied Bail

18 June 2025

By Andile Vundla

Former Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Walter Mzembi has been denied bail following his arrest last week by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.

Dr. Mzembi, who now serves as President of the Africa Forum for Cultural Diplomacy (AFFCD), was taken into custody on June 13 upon returning to Zimbabwe. His arrest is linked to long-standing corruption allegations from his time in government between 2010 and 2017.

He appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court, which confirmed the warrant of arrest and ordered that he remain in custody until his next court appearance.

In a statement, AFFCD Secretary-General Mr Pardon Tapfumaneyi called on authorities to uphold the principles of justice, urging for a fair and timely trial with the matter set to proceed on July 1.

Tapfumaneyi added that AFFCD continues to stand by Dr. Mzembi, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of individuals engaged in diplomatic work and to ensure transparency in legal proceedings.