High Court acquits Jailed King Munhumutapa

By Staff Reporter

HARARE – Timothy Chiminya, who claims the title of King Munhumutapa, has been acquitted after the High Court overturned his 10-month jail sentence for allegedly undermining President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Chiminya, a traditional healer, was previously convicted for insulting the president and allegedly setting up “parallel structures” by appointing and dethroning traditional leaders without legal authority. Prosecutors had claimed he appointed chiefs in several districts, actions deemed unconstitutional and disrespectful to the office of the president.

High Court judges Maxwell Takuva and Benjamin Chikowero ruled in favor of Chiminya, stating:

> “The appeal is allowed. The conviction is quashed and the sentence set aside… The accused is found not guilty and is acquitted.”

Earlier, Harare magistrate Isheanesu Matova had refused him bail, calling him a “security threat,” but High Court judge Faith Mushure later granted US$200 bail pending appeal, with travel and reporting restrictions.

Chiminya had reportedly targeted Chief Seke’s homestead and appointed Masimba Rubatika and other leaders in Chirumhanzu, Zaka, and Chigegwe between June and October 2024, which the National Prosecuting Authority argued was unconstitutional.