A Harare magistrate has sentenced Marry Mubaiwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s ex-wife to 12 months in prison for marriage fraud.

Magistrate Lazini Ncube on Wednesday convicted Marry of violating the Marriages Act after she lied that Chiwenga had agreed to formalize their union while he was hospitalized in India.

Mubaiwa, however, escaped a custodial sentence after the magistrate ruled she was not in good health to go to jail.

She was given an option to pay ZWL$60 000 or go to jail for six months.

In passing the sentence this Thursday, the magistrate said that Mubaiwa could not perform hours of community service due to her health condition.

He said Mubaiwa deserves a second chance since she is a first-time offender.

“The accused is not in good health as she is always seen with an aide. The accused is a first offender,” said Mubaiwa.

“The accused will not cause harm to society. She deserves a second chance.

Community service for her won’t work because of her health.”