The High Court in Masvingo has issued an urgent interim interdict barring Chief Murinye, born Ephias Munodawafa, from interfering with the operations of Riverton Academy Extension, ruling that his conduct amounted to unlawful self-help.
Justice Josephine Zisengwe ordered the traditional leader to immediately cease obstructing access to the school following an incident on January 11 in which he allegedly parked his vehicle at the entrance to stop parents from dropping off pupils. He is also accused of threatening to release snakes onto the school premises.
Chief Murinye had maintained that the school was unlawfully constructed on communal land without the necessary approvals and claimed his actions were sanctioned under the Traditional Leaders Act.
However, the court ruled that traditional leaders are subject to the law and cannot bypass established legal procedures when addressing disputes. Justice Zisengwe emphasised that any concerns regarding land use or regulatory compliance must be resolved through lawful channels.
The judge found that the school’s proprietor, Philimon Mutangiri, had established a prima facie right to continue operating the institution while outstanding compliance matters are addressed. She noted that disrupting lessons would result in irreparable harm to learners.
Pending the final resolution of the matter, the court ordered Chief Murinye and all those acting under his authority to refrain from blocking access roads or interfering with teaching and learning activities at the school.
