Vongai Masuka

Self styled prophet and founder of the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, Walter Magaya, will remain in custody today as his legal team approaches the High Court to seek for his release on bail following a series of sexual assault allegations.

Magaya appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 26 January 2026, where he was formally charged with four counts of rape.

The charges involve four separate complainants and span a seven-year period between 2016 and 2023.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the victims were either employees of Magaya’s various institutions or members of his congregation.

The State outlined a pattern of alleged abuse of power and spiritual influence.

The court heard that in 2016, a 32-year-old woman alleged that she was driven to a house in Borrowdale under the guise of being offered employment for a housing project, where she was raped.

In 2020, a 24-year-old ministerial worker claims she was invited to a hotel room for “Bible study,” only to be locked inside and assaulted.

In 2023, a 22-year-old woman alleges she was instructed to stay at the Yadah Hotel for prayers to combat spiritual manifestations but was raped in the Presidential Suite.

In an undated count, a 21-year-old shop attendant alleges she was lured to a hotel as a reward for her high book sales, where she was subsequently forced into sexual intercourse.

The State has vehemently opposed bail, arguing that Magaya is a flight risk who could face a lengthy custodial sentence if convicted.

Prosecutors also expressed concern that his influential position could lead to witness interference.

While the lower court initially remanded him in custody, Magaya’s defense team filed an urgent High Court application yesterday and the hearing is scheduled to take place today.

Magaya’s trial is set to begin on Monday, February 16, 2026.