Madzibaba Ishmael, along with seven members of his church, faced a denial of bail on Tuesday following their arrest last week on charges of suspected child abuse. The arrests occurred after authorities discovered 251 minors working on their farm and 16 unregistered graves.
Appearing in court in Norton near the capital Harare, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, aged 56, described as a “self-styled prophet,” and his co-accused were not required to enter a plea.
Magistrate Christine Nyandoro denied bail, expressing concerns that Chokurongerwa could potentially use his influence to interfere with witnesses. She also cited fears of a public outcry if he were released.
The group faces charges under the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act. Police found school-age children engaged in manual labor on their farm, along with the unregistered graves.
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The magistrate scheduled the next hearing for April 4, indicating that all eight suspects would remain in custody until then.
Madzibaba Ishmael, a leader in the Johane Masowe or “white garment” church, has been linked to previous allegations of abuse of women and children in Zimbabwe.
During Tuesday’s hearing, several church members, dressed in white, were present but declined to speak to journalists. Chokurongerwa, who covered his face with a towel, remained silent throughout the proceedings.
The suspects’ lawyer, Purity Chikangaise, announced plans to appeal the bail denial at the High Court, stressing the importance of thorough examination during trial.