Biti’s bail conditions relaxed

Zimbabwean opposition leader Tendai Biti's bail conditions have reportedly been relaxed after a Harare court ‘cancelled his reporting terms’. This after Biti, through his lawyer Alec Muchadehama, made an application for the cancellation of his reporting conditions, arguing that they were not serving any purpose. Biti was arrested after he was deported by Zambian authorities last month when he tried to seek an asylum in that country following a deadly post-election crackdown. The Herald reports that he faced charges of inciting violence and violating Zimbabwe's Electoral Act. The Internationally-respected Finance Minister in the troubled 2009-2013 power-sharing government, had proclaimed a victory for the opposition before the official announcement of the results. Magistrate, Elisha Singamo said there was no reason why Biti should continue reporting to the police as the state was in possession of his title deed and passport. He is expected back in court for trial on 17 October.

Full report in The Herald (subscription needed)