ZRP must not selectively crucify Prophet Magaya only

Zimbabwe has a lot of Magayas - men who abuse their power, influence and trust to prey on the vulnerable. It is therefore good news that the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is aggressively pursuing the rape and fraud case involving Prophet Walter Magaya and has opened new channels for victims to report abuse.

This is more than just a single case. It is an opportunity - perhaps a historic one - to protect our girls, mothers and even grandmothers from sexual predators who have long operated with impunity.

For too long, those in positions of authority have taken advantage of a broken system that does not adequately protect women and children. Silence, fear and lack of accountability have allowed abusers to act freely, destroying lives while victims suffer in the shadows. That must end.

The ZRP deserves commendation for taking decisive action in pursuing allegations against Magaya, the leader of PHD Ministries, after so many years of whispered accusations. In a statement issued on 8 November 2025, the police announced the creation of several dedicated reporting platforms -  including mobile and WhatsApp hotlines - for victims to report their cases, whether inside or outside Zimbabwe.

This is a welcome and powerful step toward justice and accountability. It signals a possible shift from silence to action - a moment when the police stand with survivors rather than intimidate them.

But the initiative must not end with Magaya. Sexual violence is rampant across Zimbabwe. Every week, cases of rape and abuse are reported - in schools, workplaces, churches and homes - yet countless others go unspoken because victims fear stigma or distrust the justice system.

That is why the ZRP must expand this reporting platform to the wider public, making it a permanent, nationwide mechanism for all survivors of sexual abuse. This could be the beginning of a sustained, countrywide campaign to fight sexual violence at every level.

The police should also embrace Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and social media platforms to make it easier for victims to report abuse - even anonymously. Platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and dedicated mobile apps could help reach younger victims and those in remote areas, ensuring that every cry for help is heard and acted upon swiftly and sensitively.

What the ZRP has done should inspire the creation of a Zimbabwean version of the #MeToo movement - a safe and empowering space for survivors to share their stories and expose predators without fear. Such a movement could finally dismantle the culture of silence that protects abusers while punishing victims.

This is an opportunity to protect our sisters, mothers and grandmothers from those who exploit power and vulnerability. The police must build and maintain public trust by ensuring that every report is handled with confidentiality, empathy and fairness.

The ZRP's efforts are not just about one man or one case - they are about building a safer Zimbabwe for everyone. Let this be the beginning of a national awakening where survivors are believed, supported and empowered to speak out.

And wherever you are, Betty Makoni - this moment presents a powerful opportunity to revive the spirit of your activism and the cases you once championed. Zimbabwe needs that courage again.