“My Spirit Will Grow Stronger”: Prophet Walter Magaya’s Defiant Message from Custody
In a dramatic address from custody, Prophet Walter Magaya has told his followers that his arrest and pending trial on multiple rape and fraud charges are a necessary spiritual test. His message comes as PHD Ministries confirms its largest annual event, the 'Night of Turnaround,' will proceed without him.
Magaya's Message from Custody
In an audio message circulated on PHD Ministries' WhatsApp groups, the embattled preacher framed his ordeal as a divine and necessary trial. He passionately appealed to his followers to attend the upcoming all-night prayer vigil, assuring them his suffering was for a higher purpose.
“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, and uplift.”
The message carries significant weight as Magaya was arrested in a dramatic raid at his prayer mountain during a period of intense fasting and prayer. This spiritual preparation was for the upcoming 'Night of Turnaround,' an event he will now miss for the first time.
"Night of Turnaround" to Proceed
Despite the arrest of their leader, PHD Ministries leadership has confirmed that the 'Night of Turnaround' on Friday, November 7, will proceed as planned. The annual event is one of the largest on the church’s calendar, historically drawing thousands of followers from across Southern Africa.
PHD Overseer Admire Mango stated that postponing the event was never an option. “The Night of Turnaround will go ahead, regardless of our leader’s current situation,” he said. “We respect the laws of our country... This is a phase beyond our control but we trust that God is in complete command.” On Sunday, sermons at the church were inspired by Luke 4:1, reminding congregants that even Jesus faced trials.
The Legal Battle
Prophet Magaya remains in custody after being formally charged with 18 criminal counts: 13 of fraud and five of rape. His wife, Tendai Magaya, who was arrested alongside him, was granted bail of US$500.
Harare regional magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa ruled that she had no jurisdiction to grant Prophet Magaya bail in the rape cases, as they are classified under the Third Schedule of serious offences in Zimbabwe. This requires that any bail application be made at the High Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
He sent an audio message stating that his trial and detention are a "big cross" that is necessary for his spiritual "growth, sanctification, and uplift," and he urged his followers to attend the 'Night of Turnaround'.
No. The leadership of PHD Ministries has confirmed that the all-night prayer event will proceed as scheduled on Friday, November 7, even with Prophet Magaya in custody.
The magistrate's court ruled that it lacks jurisdiction to grant bail for the serious rape charges he faces (a Third Schedule offence). His legal team will have to apply for bail at the High Court.
David (Solar Sales)