Bodyguard to Prominent Church Leader Awaits Bail Ruling

The High Court will deliver a judgment tomorrow on the bail appeal of Tapiwa Felix Chikondo, the bodyguard to Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries leader Walter Magaya. Chikondo was arrested on December 3 and charged with obstructing justice for allegedly interfering with police efforts to arrest Magaya.

After two failed bail applications in the Magistrates Court, Chikondo appealed, arguing that his acquittal on a separate charge constituted changed circumstances. The State opposes bail, citing strong evidence of witness interference and his alleged commission of the offense while on bail for other charges.

In his application, Chikondo's lawyer, Mr. Malvern Mapako, argued that the lower court erred in denying him bail based on changed circumstances, particularly after he was acquitted of the charge that the State used to oppose his release. However, the State, represented by Ms. Paida Gutu, opposed the bail appeal, arguing that the lower court correctly determined that there was strong evidence of witness interference.

The High Court Justice, Gibson Mandaza, will deliver the judgment on Chikondo's bail appeal tomorrow. If granted bail, Chikondo will be released pending the outcome of his trial. If denied, he will remain in custody.

Chikondo is accused of obstructing justice by allegedly interfering with police efforts to arrest his employer, Walter Magaya. The State alleges that Chikondo has a propensity to commit further offenses and that there is a high risk of witness interference