Bellarmine Mugabe, son of the late former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on October 16, 2026, facing drug possession charges. However, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) withdrew the charges against him before he could enter a plea, a development that has ignited significant discussion across Zimbabwean social media platforms.
According to reports, Mugabe was allegedly found with 72 grams of mbanje (cannabis) inside a bag belonging to his friend, Max Mugaba, after police stopped an unregistered vehicle driven by Chatunga, another of Robert Mugabe’s sons, who was collecting Mugaba. Prosecutors ultimately decided to pursue the case against Mugaba alone, leading to Bellarmine’s release.
The incident and subsequent withdrawal of charges have drawn considerable comment from Zimbabweans online. Social media users expressed a range of emotions, from disappointment over the younger Mugabe’s alleged lifestyle choices to critical reflections on the late former president’s parenting. The swift resolution of the case has also fueled conversations about justice and privilege within the country.
Key Players Involved
- Bellarmine Mugabe: Son of the late former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, who had drug possession charges against him withdrawn.
- Max Mugaba: Friend of Bellarmine Mugabe, in whose bag the alleged 72 grams of mbanje were reportedly found.
- National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ): The body that withdrew the charges against Bellarmine Mugabe.
- Social Media Users: Public figures and citizens who have engaged in widespread discussion and commentary on the incident.
Event Timeline
- October 16, 2026: Bellarmine Mugabe appears before the Harare Magistrates’ Court.
- October 16, 2026: The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) withdraws drug possession charges against Bellarmine Mugabe.
