Walter Magaya’s bodyguard, Tapiwa Felix Chikondo, has been denied bail by the Harare Magistrates Court after being accused of interfering with investigations into an alleged rape case involving the controversial religious leader.
The ruling was delivered on Tuesday by Magistrate Ruth Moyo, who said there were no changed circumstances to justify Chikondo’s release while he awaits trial.
⚖️ Obstructing Justice Allegations
Chikondo is facing a charge of obstructing the course of justice. Prosecutors allege that he interfered with one of Magaya’s alleged rape victims and her family during police investigations that began in November 2025.
According to the State, after learning that police were investigating the rape allegation reported at Braeside Police Station, Chikondo allegedly contacted the victim. The victim reportedly handed her phone to her mother, who Chikondo is accused of pleading with not to cooperate with police.
📱 Alleged Message and Cash Offer
The court heard that Chikondo allegedly passed on a message from Magaya, urging the victim’s mother not to assist investigators and promising compensation. He is also accused of sending US$200 via an Ecocash agent, claiming the money was for transport to Harare to discuss settling the matter.
🧾 Bail Argument Rejected
In his bail application, Chikondo argued that he was a suitable candidate for release, citing a previous acquittal on similar charges. In that earlier case, he had been accused of assaulting police officers while allegedly trying to block Magaya’s arrest at a prayer mountain in Waterfalls, Harare.
The magistrate dismissed the argument, ruling that it did not amount to new circumstances warranting bail.
⛪ Background
Walter Magaya is a well-known religious leader, entrepreneur and self-styled prophet, and the founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries. Investigations into the rape allegations against him are still ongoing.
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