Pastor Alistar Chibanda has been arrested and is currently in police custody following allegations that he distributed false and defamatory information concerning the widely popular “Doek & Slay” event, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The arrest follows a series of social media posts in which the clergyman allegedly shared pictures and videos accompanied by claims portraying the all-women’s gathering as ungodly and diabolical. The posts quickly circulated online, sparking heated debate and drawing strong reactions from supporters of the event and the wider public.
In a formal statement, organisers of Doek & Slay confirmed the arrest and said they had reported the matter to law enforcement after what they described as “deliberate misinformation” that threatened the reputation of the movement. They reiterated their commitment to professionalism, integrity and the creation of a safe, empowering space for women.
“Doek & Slay is about celebrating womanhood, African identity and economic empowerment. We will not tolerate false narratives that endanger our community or misrepresent our values,” the statement read.
The event has recently come under intensified public scrutiny from some religious figures. Among them is a self-styled Apostle Joel, whose remarks branding the gathering as “diabolical” triggered widespread backlash on social media, with many Zimbabweans accusing critics of moral policing and misunderstanding the purpose of the movement.
Over the past few years, Doek & Slay has grown into a major cultural and economic phenomenon in Zimbabwe, drawing crowds of up to 23,000 women at its peak. The event blends music, fashion and networking, while promoting African culture and female solidarity. It has featured performances by leading artists such as Winky D and Nutty O, further cementing its mass appeal.
Police sources say investigations are ongoing, particularly around the pastor’s claims of alleged “demonic” activities at the event. Law enforcement officials stressed that anyone found to be spreading false information likely to incite public disorder or harm reputations would face the full wrath of the law.
The investigation continues, the case has reignited national debate around freedom of expression, religious commentary and the legal limits of online speech in Zimbabwe’s increasingly digital public square.
