Vongai Masuka

Harare Magistrates Court has acquitted self proclaimed prophet, Walter Magaya’s Body guard, Tapiwa Felix Chikondo of charges related to obstructing the course of justice.

Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai cleared Chikondo following a full trial, citing a failure by the state to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Chikondo had been accused of attempting to derail investigations into high-profile rape allegations currently facing his employer.

The state’s case, led by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), centered on claims that Chikondo interfered with a key witness in November 2025. Prosecutors alleged that Chikondo

contacted the mother of the complainant to discourage her from cooperating with the police.

Chikondo also facilitated direct communication between the witness’s family and Magaya and transferred US$200 via EcoCash to the complainant’s mother, which the state claimed was intended to fund a trip to Harare to settle the matter out of court.

The prosecution further alleged that on November 28, 2025, Chikondo visited the complainant’s home and persisted in discussing the case, despite being cautioned that such actions were illegal.

During the trial, the state produced an EcoCash agent’s register recovered on December 1, which linked Chikondo to the financial transaction.

While the transaction was confirmed, the defense successfully argued that the state failed to prove the funds were intended for the illegal purpose of witness tampering or that the interactions constituted criminal obstruction.

Chikondo, who is also identified as a member of the Zimbabwe National Army, was arrested on December 2, 2025, amidst a series of legal battles involving Walter Magaya.

The church leader is currently facing serious allegations of rape and fraud, cases that have drawn public and media attention in Zimbabwe.