KARIBA, Aug. 27 (NewsDay Live) — RIDA Kariba district clerk Ignatius Chiome has appeared in court facing a culpable homicide charge over the Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster which killed 97 people..
Prosecutors allege administrative failures, overloading and safety breaches contributed to the August 11 disaster. Preliminary findings indicate the ferry may have been carrying up to 180 passengers and heavy cargo despite being authorised to carry 90 passengers.
Authorities are also investigating whether the vessel sailed despite warnings of strong winds. Survivors reportedly told investigators that their pleas to turn back as conditions worsened were ignored.
Chiome appeared in the Kariba Magistrates Court seeking bail pending trial, but the magistrate said the ruling was not yet ready.
His lawyer, Samuel Muyemeki, told journalists outside the court that the defence had been directed to return Friday.
“The magistrate has indicated that the ruling on the bail application is not yet ready,” Muyemeki said. “We have been advised to return tomorrow when the decision is expected to be handed down.”
Chiome remains in custody pending the ruling, which is expected on Friday.
Investigations into the disaster, including the conduct of RIDA management and the ferry crew, are continuing, with authorities not ruling out further arrests.
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