Restrictions Lifted on American Charged with Insulting Mugabe

A court in Zimbabwe has relaxed restrictions on an American citizen accused of insulting former President Robert Mugabe, according to her lawyer.

Martha O’Donovan was accused of subversion, after allegedly calling Mr Mugabe a “selfish and sick man” on Twitter, a charge which she denied.

Ms O’Donovan was alleged to have made the comments in a tweet dated 11 October last year. She was charged with insulting the former president and plotting to overthrow the government, with the latter charge carrying a maximum of 20 years in prison.

At this morning’s court appearance, state lawyers had sought for restrictions on Ms O’Donovan to remain in place, asking for more time to prepare their case.

Ms O’Donovan’s lawyer Obey Shava says although the charges remain, the restrictions she had been under, like reporting to the police several times a day, have been relaxed.

Crucially, she can also get her passport back and will now be allowed to travel. He said she is expected to have her passport returned later today, although he would not be drawn on whether she plans to leave the country.

Mr Mugabe stepped down as president of Zimbabwe in November, after a military takeover.