Authorities detained socialite Natalie Mhandu on Wednesday following witchcraft accusations from former associates. The complainants alleged Mhandu performed rituals against them, prompting her arrest under Zimbabwe's criminal statutes. Former MP Fadzayi Mahere addressed the legal complexities surrounding such cases on social media. She emphasized that prosecutors face substantial challenges when pursuing witchcraft charges. The Criminal Law Act contains provisions addressing these offenses, but requires stringent evidence standards.
Courts demand expert testimony to define witchcraft practices since the law provides no specific definition. Prosecutors must establish intent to harm and demonstrate that victims experienced genuine fear from alleged supernatural activities. Section 98 permits imprisonment up to five years for verified witchcraft conduct. However, mere verbal threats cannot constitute criminal behavior without accompanying physical actions. The legislation also protects individuals from baseless accusations through Section 99, making unfounded witchcraft claims punishable offenses themselves.
Courts demand expert testimony to define witchcraft practices since the law provides no specific definition. Prosecutors must establish intent to harm and demonstrate that victims experienced genuine fear from alleged supernatural activities. Section 98 permits imprisonment up to five years for verified witchcraft conduct. However, mere verbal threats cannot constitute criminal behavior without accompanying physical actions. The legislation also protects individuals from baseless accusations through Section 99, making unfounded witchcraft claims punishable offenses themselves.
