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Peter Matika, @petematika

FORMER Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko’s incarcerated son, Siqokoqela, has filed an appeal against the 20-year jail sentence that was handed to him after being found guilty of three counts of rape and escaping lawful custody.

He filed the appeal at with the High Court of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo shortly after 10AM on Tuesday.

Siqokoqela filed the appeal through his lawyer, Mr Zibusiso Ncube of Ncube and partners.

In his appeal, he claims that the court’s decision was flawed with many inconsistencies in the trial.

Siqokoqela was jailed an effective 20-years by Bulawayo Regional Magistrate, Mr Elijah Singano, after a full trial about a fortnight ago.

Mr Singano in his ruling said many of the victim’s constitutional rights were violated.

He stated that Siqokoqela had violated the law by raping, threatening and betraying the trust of the victim’s family.

The magistrate also said lawfully each count attracted a 10-year jail term and sentencing Siqokoqela to 30 years would be harsh.

He then said the court was inclined to enforce a 20-year sentence for all three counts.

More to follow…