'King Munhumutapa' denied bail

Harare Magistrate Isheunesu Matova on Wednesday denied bail to Timothy Chiminya, a man claiming to be "King Munhumutapa" with alleged powers to appoint and dethrone traditional chiefs in Zimbabwe. Matova ruled that Chiminya posed a potential threat to national peace and stability, ordering his continued remand in custody until January 22, 2024.

Medical evaluations presented in court confirmed Chiminya's mental fitness to stand trial. This followed an earlier request by prosecutors for a mental health assessment to establish his competency ahead of the bail hearing.

Chiminya, arrested on December 16, 2024, faces charges of undermining the authority of the President. Prosecutors allege that Chiminya, claiming to have been appointed "King Munhumutapa" by a spirit medium, illegally assumed the authority to install and remove chiefs, actions that have reportedly caused unrest in affected communities.

The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works filed a formal complaint against Chiminya, accusing him of violating the Zimbabwean Constitution and the Traditional Leaders Act, which grants the President exclusive authority to appoint and remove chiefs.

Prosecutor Rufaro Chonzi detailed the allegations, stating that in February 2024, Chiminya visited Chief Seke's homestead in Dema, declared him "dethroned," and appointed Masimba Rubatika as the new Chief Seke. Between June 11 and October 31, Chiminya is also accused of appointing Julius Chimbi as Chief Chigwegwe and Hama Piki as a chief in Chirumanzu, as well as naming Chief Nyakunhuwa in Zaka, Masvingo, without legal authority.

Chief Chimanike, the traditional Chief Seke, reported Chiminya's actions to the Ministry in June, prompting an investigation that culminated in his arrest.

The case has sparked widespread interest, not only for its implications on governance and traditional leadership but also due to Chiminya's invocation of the historic title "King Munhumutapa." The title, rooted in the Kingdom of Mutapa (1430–1760), reflects the rulers of the expansive Mutapa Empire, which covered modern-day Zimbabwe and extended into Mozambique, Botswana, Malawi, and Zambia. The title Munhumutapa, meaning "he who conquers" or "owner of the conquered land," symbolized the empire's expansionist legacy.

Chiminya's claims to this ancient title and his actions have drawn scrutiny, with legal experts emphasizing the constitutional boundaries governing traditional leadership. The court's decision to deny bail underscores the serious nature of the allegations, as the nation awaits further proceedings in the high-profile case.