Walter Magaya, the founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, was remanded in custody until February 16, following his arrest yesterday afternoon just outside the Harare Magistrates Court on additional rape allegations.
The prominent Zimbabwean pastor was arrested on Monday, shortly after attending court proceedings related to separate rape and fraud cases.
Prophet Magaya, who has consistently denied all allegations against him, faces new counts of rape.
The allegations involve incidents dating back to 2013, 2016 and 2020, with complainants alleging that Magaya took advantage of his position as their prophet and pastor.
The prosecution claims Magaya lured the women to isolated locations, where he allegedly raped them.
One complainant, a 24-year-old woman, alleges Magaya offered her voluntary work at PHD Ministries before assaulting her at a church-owned hotel.
Magaya’s case has sparked intense public interest, with supporters flooding the court to show solidarity.
Magaya is set to appear before the Magistrates Court on 27 March for the first existing case.
Magaya’s case has also reignited debates about accountability, particularly for influential figures with some viewing Magaya as a victim of persecution, while others see his arrest as a necessary step towards justice.
Meanwhile, the Harare Magistrates’ Court has dismissed an application by PHD Ministries leader Walter Magaya challenging his continued placement on remand, paving the way for his rape trial to proceed.
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story by Chiedza Nyabadza
