"A Big and Tough Test" - Walter Magaya Speaks Out From Custody Amid Legal Battles
As he faces a litany of fraud and rape charges, Prophet Walter Magaya has sent a message to his PHD Ministries followers, framing his legal battle as a necessary trial for his spirit. His message comes as he is set to miss the ministry's biggest annual event, the 'Night of Turnaround'.
Magaya's Message from Custody
In an audio message posted on a PHD WhatsApp group, Magaya addressed the serious legal challenges he is facing, framing them as a spiritual necessity. He told his followers:
“I am carrying a big cross right now which is necessary for growth and deliverance of your life, come for the night of turnaround. The trial I am facing is for the benefit of my spirit, sanctification, my uplift.”
The message carries significant weight as Magaya was arrested during a period of fasting and prayer in the countdown to the 'Night of Turnaround'. His arrest in the early hours of Saturday morning at his prayer mountain interrupted a spiritual practice he was undertaking ahead of the major event.
"Night of Turnaround" to Proceed
Despite Magaya being remanded in custody, senior church leadership has confirmed that the 'Night of Turnaround' will go ahead as planned. The annual event is one of the biggest on the PHD calendar, traditionally attracting huge crowds, including international followers.
Overseer Admire Mango, a senior figure at the ministry, stated that the event would proceed while they await the outcome of the legal process. “We respect the laws of our country and await the course of justice. This is a phase beyond our control but we trust that God is in complete command,” he said, urging followers to remain steadfast in prayer.
The Legal Battle
Prophet Magaya was remanded in custody after appearing in court on 18 criminal charges, which include 13 counts of fraud and five separate counts of rape. He has been in custody since his arrest on Saturday.
His wife, Tendai, who was arrested alongside him, was released on US$500 bail. However, Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa ruled that the court had no jurisdiction to grant Magaya bail on the rape charges as it is a third schedule offence, requiring a High Court application.
Frequently Asked Questions
In an audio message, he said the legal challenges he is facing are a "big cross" that is necessary for his spirit and mission, and he urged followers to attend the upcoming 'Night of Turnaround'.
No. Senior leadership at PHD Ministries has confirmed that the event will go ahead as planned, despite Prophet Magaya being in custody.
The magistrate ruled that she had no jurisdiction to grant him bail for the five rape charges, as this is a "third schedule offence" in Zimbabwe, which requires that bail be sought at the High Court.
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