A bodyguard for prominent religious leader Prophet Walter Magaya has been remanded in custody after being accused of attempting to obstruct justice in a high-profile rape case.
Tapiwa Felix Chikondo, 35, who has served as part of Magaya’s security detail for several years, appeared in Harare Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. The State alleges that Chikondo tried to influence witnesses linked to the ongoing investigation against Magaya, actions which could constitute witness tampering under Zimbabwean law.
Prosecutors told the court that Chikondo allegedly approached individuals connected to the case with the intent of preventing them from giving evidence. The court heard that such interference undermines the integrity of the judicial process.
Chikondo’s defense lawyer denied the claims, stating that there was no attempt to interfere with witnesses. The magistrate subsequently remanded him in custody while investigations continue, scheduling a follow-up hearing for next week.
The arrest has drawn significant public attention, given Magaya’s status as one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent spiritual figures. Human rights and legal experts have emphasized the importance of protecting witnesses in sensitive cases to ensure justice is served.
This incident adds another layer to the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding Magaya, whose activities have been under public and media examination in recent months.
