Prophet Walter Magaya has described the legal battles he is facing as a necessary trial for his spiritual mission, addressing followers of PHD Ministries in a recent message.
Magaya is currently in custody, facing five counts of rape and 13 counts of fraud, after being arrested in a high-profile police operation at his prayer mountain early last Saturday. His wife, Tendai Magaya, was also arrested but released on US$500 bail.
During proceedings, Harare Regional Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa said she could not grant bail to Magaya in the rape case, citing the charges as a third schedule offence, which falls outside her jurisdiction.
As a result, Magaya will be absent from PHD Ministries’ annual Night of Turnaround, scheduled for Friday at the church’s Waterfalls headquarters in Harare. This event, which draws thousands of followers from Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries including South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique, and Namibia, is one of the biggest on the church calendar. The impact of his legal challenges on attendance remains to be seen.
In an audio message shared on the church’s WhatsApp group, Magaya said:
“I am carrying a big cross right now, which is necessary for growth and deliverance of your life. The trial I am facing is for the benefit of my spirit, sanctification, and upliftment.”
Prior to his arrest, Magaya had been fasting and praying in preparation for the Night of Turnaround, with his fasting expected to conclude today.
Despite the legal turmoil, senior PHD officials have confirmed that the event will proceed as planned. Overseer Admire Mango, a senior church leader, urged followers to respect the legal process and remain steadfast in their prayers:
“The Night of Turnaround will go ahead, regardless of our leader’s current situation. We respect the laws of our country and trust that God is in command.”
On Sunday, another senior PHD leader, Timothy Marasha, delivered a sermon inspired by Luke 4:1, encouraging members to draw strength from faith during this challenging period for their leader.
