Zimbabwean Pastor’s Rape Case Faces New Complications as Victim Seeks Withdrawal Amid Intimidation Claims
The rape case against Zimbabwean televangelist Walter Magaya, founder of Prophetic Healing Deliverance Ministries, has become more complex after one alleged victim formally moved to withdraw her complaint, even as separate allegations of witness intimidation emerged.
According to legal documents, lawyers for one of the women who accused Magaya of rape have submitted a signed affidavit to the Prosecutor General stating their client’s intention to withdraw the charges. Magaya, who was arrested on the charges last year, is currently out on bail. The legal team confirmed the affidavit had been filed with the state and they are awaiting a formal response from prosecutors.
However, this development coincides with serious allegations from the legal representatives of a second alleged victim. That legal team reported receiving an anonymous phone call from an individual claiming to be an officer with the Police Anti-Corruption Unit. The caller demanded to know who had instructed the lawyers to represent their client. The lawyers condemned the call as “improper and unprofessional,” noting the officer failed to identify themselves or provide credentials. They stressed that any legitimate official communication must occur transparently through proper channels.
Furthermore, the second legal team claimed their client is being held at an undisclosed location where she is allegedly being coerced and threatened to prevent her from pursuing the case, despite having already signed an affidavit. They emphasized that their client did not personally initiate the police report; instead, a complaint was filed on her behalf by third parties.
“It is not in the interest of justice to force or threaten our client simply because she is not interested in pursuing a matter that was reported by third parties,” the lawyers stated. They also raised urgent concerns about being denied access to their client, arguing there is no lawful basis for such a restriction. They have formally requested immediate and unrestricted access to consult with her, attend to her welfare, and deliver her personal belongings.
The Prosecutor General’s office now faces a pivotal decision. While the state holds the primary authority to prosecute (dominius litis), the withdrawal by one complainant and the serious interference claims from another will likely factor into its determination on whether to proceed with the case against the prominent church leader. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between legal procedure and allegations of external pressure in a high-profile matter.
