The founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, Walter Magaya, has been remanded in custody after the State brought new rape charges against him.
Prosecutors allege that Magaya committed four separate rape incidents involving women who were said to be members of his church. The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2016 and 2023 in Harare and Chegutu.
When the charges were read in court, the magistrate ruled that the case falls under a Third Schedule offence. This means the magistrate’s court cannot grant bail. The court clearly stated that it would not hear any bail application, adding that only the High Court has the authority to consider bail in this matter.
Magaya’s lawyers told the court that they will urgently approach the High Court, arguing that there are important legal issues that need to be challenged.
Meanwhile, prosecutors insist that the alleged encounters were not consensual and say medical evidence will be presented during trial.
For now, Walter Magaya remains in custody as he awaits trial. Once known as a powerful prophet with millions of followers, he now faces his toughest challenge before the law.
