Story by Chiedza Nyabadza
The rape trial of Walter Magaya, leader of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, was today postponed after the State successfully applied for the matter to be heard in a Victim Friendly Court.
Magaya, who faces four counts of rape linked to allegations dating back to 2013 and involving multiple complainants, had been scheduled to go on trial today.
Prosecutors argued that several of the witnesses are vulnerable and have already endured significant mental and emotional trauma, adding that testifying in an open courtroom could worsen their condition.
A Victim Friendly Court is designed to minimise further trauma and safeguard the dignity of victims, particularly in cases involving sexual offences, child abuse and other sensitive matters.
Magaya’s lawyer, Admire Rubaya, opposed the application, arguing that moving the proceedings would infringe on his client’s right to a fair trial.
However, magistrate Letwin Rwodzi ruled in favour of the State and ordered that the trial be relocated to the specialised facility.
Rubaya indicated that the defence intends to seek a referral to the Constitutional Court, alleging that the decision raises constitutional concerns.
