A Harare court released the spouse and security guard of religious figure Walter Magaya after both posted bond, while the preacher himself remained jailed, facing multiple allegations. Tendai Magaya received permission to leave custody after paying $500 bond despite prosecution resistance. Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa determined that authorities presented insufficient justification for continued detention, noting the woman posed minimal escape risk. The judge stated that refusing bond would constitute a miscarriage of justice. Conditions require passport surrender and biweekly visits to Waterfalls Police Station. Her next appearance is scheduled for Nov. 18.
Security personnel member Tapiwa Felix Chikondo gained release after posting $300 bond. The 34-year-old Zimbabwe National Army soldier faces obstruction allegations stemming from the Nov. 1 arrest operation at a Waterfalls prayer site. Defense attorney Stephen Chikotora contested prosecution claims, arguing his client remained unaware of activities occurring elsewhere at the location and faced speculation rather than evidence. Prosecutors cited prior violent conduct and another pending charge when opposing release.
Walter Magaya received no such reprieve. The magistrate rejected arguments about excessive detention and declined jurisdiction over his sexual assault charge, directing him toward High Court proceedings. He stays confined until Nov. 13. His attorney plans to pursue bond applications at the higher court level for both fraud and assault allegations.
Security personnel member Tapiwa Felix Chikondo gained release after posting $300 bond. The 34-year-old Zimbabwe National Army soldier faces obstruction allegations stemming from the Nov. 1 arrest operation at a Waterfalls prayer site. Defense attorney Stephen Chikotora contested prosecution claims, arguing his client remained unaware of activities occurring elsewhere at the location and faced speculation rather than evidence. Prosecutors cited prior violent conduct and another pending charge when opposing release.
Walter Magaya received no such reprieve. The magistrate rejected arguments about excessive detention and declined jurisdiction over his sexual assault charge, directing him toward High Court proceedings. He stays confined until Nov. 13. His attorney plans to pursue bond applications at the higher court level for both fraud and assault allegations.
