Harare businessman Farai Matsika has faced a significant legal defeat in his bid to appeal a Supreme Court ruling that favored his cousin and business rival, Moses Chingwena, along with Chingwena’s companies.
The dispute between Farai Matsika and Chingwena revolves around the ownership and management of Croco Motors and its subsidiaries. Matsika claimed ownership based on what he alleged to be a valid shareholders’ agreement.
However, Chingwena countered that Matsika’s legal claims were founded on false information and a fraudulent agreement, asserting that Matsika lacked the legal standing to pursue the case.
The courts ruled in Chingwena’s favor, concluding that Matsika was not a shareholder and that his application failed to meet legal standards. Consequently, the case was dismissed with costs. Matsika’s subsequent appeal to the Supreme Court also failed due to procedural issues.
ALSO READ: Camron Mpofu First Zimbabwean to Join English Premier League Giant
He then sought a review of the Supreme Court’s decision, arguing that it was made by a single judge. The court declined, stating that the request was essentially an appeal in disguise.
Persistent in his efforts, Matsika applied to the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) for permission to appeal to the highest court. However, the ConCourt, with judges Anne-Marie Gowora, Ben Hlatshwayo, and Bharat Patel presiding, ruled against him.
They determined that Matsika had not demonstrated a strong chance of success on appeal. The application was dismissed without a costs order. This ruling concludes Matsika’s legal battle, leaving him feeling exploited by his cousin, while Chingwena maintains a different perspective.
Professor Lovemore Madhuku represented Matsika, while Advocate Thabani Mpofu represented Chingwena and his companies.
While Chingwena manages Croco Motors and other businesses, Matsika now oversees Faramatsi Motors and Doves Holdings. Matsika claimed he owned 30% of the conglomerate, a claim that Chingwena disputed. The cousins, who grew up together, built the US$100 million empire before their fallout.
