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A witness in the trial of Apostolic sect leader, Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, said he should be held responsible for failing to comply with the law in securing birth certificates for the children who were part of his sect at Lilly Farm in Nyabira.
As reported by <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/witness-nails-madzibaba-ishmael/">H-Metro</a>, the trial of Madzibaba Ishmael and his seven suspected accomplices resumed on Wednesday, 19 June.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices, namely Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunhire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (48), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), are facing three counts of ill-treating children, conducting a burial without a burial order and failing to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
District public prosecutor Tafara Chirambira, and prosecutor Sheila Mupindu, led evidence from their second witness, Farai Gatusa.
Gatusa is an officer from the Births and Deaths registration department who went to Lily Farm on the day in question.
He testified that when they visited the farm, they were blocked from conducting their duties by Madzibaba Ishmael.
Gatusa told the court that they observed graves shown to them by Madzibaba Ishmael and about 48 children who lived on the farm did not have birth certificates.
He said the birth certificates shown to him by Madzibaba Ishmael’s lawyers were obtained in June 2024, after their visit in March.
Gatusa questioned the authenticity of the birth certificates as they were uncertified copies, which he was only made aware of in court.
He claimed the documents were obtained by Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices in an attempt to vindicate themselves from the offence, long after the trial had started.
Village head Nzwanai Musonza also testified that he would occasionally be called by Madzibaba Ishmael, and his accomplices, to officiate at the funerals and he thought they would have notified the authorities.
Musonza told the presiding magistrate, Christine Nyandoro, that he was shocked to learn that no action was taken to inform authorities of the church leaders.
In their defence, Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices argued that they did not have a guardian obligation to the minors, hence it was not their duty to take care of them.
The accused persons told the court that none of the alleged victims, nor their parents, have lodged a complaint with the police, therefore “the State should not be crying more than the bereaved.”
They further stated that they did not conduct the burial of any person without notifying authorities.
Madzibaba and his accomplices also submitted that they were not the only adults at Lily Farm and should not be held accountable.
The trial resumes on June 27.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Civil Registry Department Official Testifies In Madzibaba Ishmael Trial

The leader of an alleged religious cult, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, who is facing murder charges, has been released on bail.
Chokurongerwa, better known as Madzibaba Ishmael, and his co-accused Siribhino Chikurunhe and Wonder Kabaya were on Tuesday, 14 May, granted US$500 bail each by High Court judge Justice Esther Muremba.
It is the State’s case that on November 12, 2023, the accused connived to terminate Hazel Chikurunhe’s pregnancy, resulting in her death.
The trio allegedly secretly buried Chikurunhe at Chokurongerwa’s shrine in Nyabira without following due procedure.
Her body was exhumed recently, leading to the trio’s arrest.
Chokurongerwa, Chikurunhe and Kabaya are represented by Purity Chikangaise of Maphosa and Ndomene Legal Practitioners.
Madzibaba Ishmael is also facing charges of having sexual intercourse with five underage girls between 2018 and 2024 resulting in the birth of several children.
Besides the charges mentioned above, Madzibaba Ishmael, together with six other Johanne Masowe Yechishanu apostolic sect leaders are facing three counts as follows:
<blockquote>
1. Ill-treatment or neglect of children (involving 41 children)
2. Conducting a funeral service/burial without a burial order
3. Failure to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
</blockquote>
The other accused persons are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Granted US$500 Bail On Murder Charge

Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, the leader of the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect, was slapped with fresh charges when he appeared again at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
Chokurongerwa (54) was arrested several weeks ago together with other seven members of his sect. They were charged with violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
He is now facing five counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor”. Prosecutors allege that Chokurongerwa engaged in sexual relations with 5 minors between 2018 and 2024. These are
a) 15-year-old, resulting in the birth of an infant
b) 13-year-old, resulting in the birth of 1 infant
c) 14-year-old with whom he now has two children
d) 15-year-old with whom he has a child
e) 16-year-old, resulting in the birth of another infant.
Chokurongerwa was last week granted bail by the High Court after spending almost two months in remand prison on previous charges.
The Court ruled that there was no longer any risk that Madzibaba Ishmael would interfere with witnesses, hence the decision to grant him bail.
Apart from an order to deposit US$ 1,000 with the clerk of court Norton Magistrstes’ Court, the High Court also barred Chokurongerwa from conducting any church gatherings anywhere until the matter is finalised.
He was also ordered not to interfere with witnesses directly or indirectly until the matter is finalised and to report to the police three times a week.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused; Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53) were granted bail early this month by the Harare High Court. 
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael In Court Again, For Raping And Impregnating Five Minors

Controversial religious cult leader, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, has finally been granted bail by the High Court after spending almost two months in remand prison.
Chokurongerwa (54), who leads the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect, and seven other members of the sect, were arrested for allegedly violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the High Court ruled that there was no longer any risk that Madzibaba Ishmael would interfere with witnesses, hence the decision to grant him bail.
Apart from an order to deposit US$ 1,000 with the clerk of court Norton Magistrstes’ Court, the High Court also barred Chokurongerwa from conducting any church gatherings anywhere until the matter is finalised.
He was also ordered not to interfere with witnesses directly or indirectly until the matter is finalised and to report to the police three times a week.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused; Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53) were granted bail early this month by the Harare High Court. 
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Granted Bail, Barred From Conducting Church Services

Headman lnzwanai Musonzwa of Mhondoro village in Mashonaland West Province has urged the government to shut down Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s religious sect, which is accused of rampant violation of children’s rights to education, health and access to birth certificates.
Several Johanne Masowe eChishanu Apostolic religious sect members, including Madzibaba Ishmael, were arrested recently.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/shut-down-cult-abusing-women-girls-says-village-headman-angry-over-apostolic-church/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Headman Musonzwa said that Madzibaba Ishmael’s sect allows child marriages and abuse of minors, which affects many underage children in the village.
He said the Government must enforce laws, which protect and fight for the rights of children and women. Said the traditional leader:
<blockquote>
Child marriages are happening at the church, therefore l am asking for the protection of children from abuse. Many underage girls are being married off and falling pregnant, with some dying at the shrine during childbirth since they are not allowed to seek medical attention at hospitals.
</blockquote>
The headman claimed that Madzibaba Ishmael’s church promotes the abuse of women and girls since it permits polygamy.
Not only does the sect permit polygamous marriages, but it also allows men to marry as many wives as they wish, sharing one bedroom and openly expressing intimacy.
The headman’s wife, Alice Chapungu, who is also a village health worker, pleaded with the Ministry of Health and Childcare to ensure that all minors get the healthcare they need. She said:
<blockquote>
The church forbids children and adults alike from going to hospitals when they fall sick and this is leading to early and preventable deaths, mostly among children.
As a village health worker l fight for the rights of the children. I want every child to be safe, healthy, and able to attend school.
So if we get help from various government arms, things will normalise for children in the Nyabira area.
</blockquote>
In a related development, two women from Madzibaba Ishmael’s apostolic sect who recently appeared in court facing allegations of human trafficking were released on US$50 bail each by Harare magistrate Donald Ndirowei.
Danai Tigere (56) and Veronica Chitanda (40), were arrested after they were allegedly caught harbouring nine women who are believed to be key witnesses in the case that led to their leader’s arrest.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Village Headman Urges Government To Shut Down Madzibaba Ishmael's Church

A 27-year-old member of an Apostolic sect led by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, who died and was buried at the shrine in November 2023, died as a result of a miscarriage, a postmortem conducted at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals has revealed.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/female-congregants-death-at-madzibaba-ishmaels-shrine-was-due-to-pregnancy-complications-postmortem-report/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, the late Hazel Chikurume had a miscarriage that needed specialist medical attention which she was denied due to the sect’s religious beliefs.
Her remains were recently exhumed from the shrine known as “Canaan” situated in Nyabira, Mashonaland West Province.
Chikurume was reportedly buried without the knowledge of her biological mother.
In an interview with Destiny TV, Chikurume’s uncle, who referred to himself as Sendi, said:
<blockquote>
A post-mortem revealed that Hazel had suffered a miscarriage before her death and it had been unknown to her family.
</blockquote>
Chikurume’s father and her husband led the police to her grave to undertake the exhumation process.
Madzibaba Ishmael’s church is accused of abusing women at the Lily Farm compound and Chikurume’s hasty burial was thought to have been a cover-up.
Chikurume’s mother, Memory Mukanairi, said she only wanted to see the remains of her daughter irrespective of the stage of decomposition. Said Mukanairi:
<blockquote>
We were not informed of her death and just heard about the issue through neighbours. We then went to the farm, where we were advised to seek protection since the sect leaders were reported to be violent. I am told my daughter died and was buried by four men who are not even related to her.
We are happy to witness our child’s remains being exhumed. We were not given the chance to mourn our child because of this indoctrination.
It is really painful to me that my child died during childbirth because now I am thinking that, maybe, if I had been there she was not going to go through that and I was going to help her.
</blockquote>
Chikurume was reburied last weekend at the family homestead in Mazvihwa, Mt Darwin in Mashonaland Central province.
Meanwhile, two female members of Madzibaba Ishmael’s sect, Danai Tigere (56) and Veronica Chitanda (40), were arrested recently after they were caught harbouring nine women who are believed to be key witnesses in the case that led to their leader’s arrest.
The two women allegedly were hiding the witnesses at a house in Mufakose, Harare. They are now facing trafficking charges.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Death Of Madzibaba Ishmael’s Follower At "Canaan" Was Due To Pregnancy Complications - Postmortem Report

Two female members of an apostolic sect led by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa on Thursday appeared in court facing trafficking charges, <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/duo-locked-up-for-harbouring-witnesses-to-jailed-cult-leaders-crimes/">reported ZimLive</a>.
The two, Danai Tigere (56), and Veronica Chitanda (40), were allegedly caught harbouring nine females believed to be key witnesses in the case which resulted in the arrest of Madzibaba Ishmael recently.
Tigere and Chitanda appeared before Harare magistrate Donald Ndirowei and were not asked to plead. They were granted US$50 each.
They were back in court on Friday, April 12, for bail application in the other case.
Prosecuting, Anesu Chirenje said that on March 13 this year, Chokurongerwa and seven accomplices were arrested by the police for contravening the Burial and Cremation Act and Children’s Act at Plot number 6 Lily Farm in Nyabira.
He further alleged that on March 28, police received information that the two were hiding victims suspected to be from Chokurongerwa’s sect house number 40 Ngamera Street, Mufakose Harare. Said the State prosecutor:
<blockquote>
On March 29, at 3 AM, a raid was conducted at Tigere’s residence where Previous Zogara, 20, Precious Tichaona, 20, Memory Matanga, 19, Rulendo Chimuti, 24, Vimbai Mufani, 21, Melody Chirinda, 20, Nomusa Tichaona, 18, and two minors were rescued by the police.
</blockquote>
When questioned, the pair could not provide a satisfactory explanation on why they were keeping the nine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Women Arrested For Harbouring Witnesses In Madzibaba Ishmael's Alleged Crimes

The body of a child who was allegedly buried at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s shrine at Lily Farm in Nyabira without the knowledge of the mother was expected to be exhumed this Friday.
The mother of the child, Memory Mukanairi pleaded with authorities for the body to be exhumed.
It will be the second exhumation of a body at the shrine after the exhumation of the remains of the late Professor Itai Muwati, who died in unclear circumstances at the same shrine.
Prof Muwati’s brother claimed that his sibling was murdered by members of the cult after he decided to leave because he no longer agreed with some of the things which were happening at the shrine.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/police-set-to-exhume-body-of-a-child-buried-at-ishmaels-nyabira-shrine-the-child-was-buried-without-the-knowledge-of-the-mother-other-people-set-to-visit-farm-to-check-for-missing-rel/">H-Metro</a>, a heavy police presence was expected at Lily Farm for the exhumation process just in case there was resistance from some of the cult members.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his co-accused, Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (47), Zebediah Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), who are all members of the cult, appeared before High Court judge Justice Rodgers Manyangadze on Thursday.
Madzibaba Ishmael was denied bail while his co-accused were granted bail by the High Court. He will remain in custody until their trial gets underway on May 7.
Justice Manyangadze granted bail to the seven accomplices while denying Madzibaba Ishmael’s release. He said the magistrate, who had previously denied bail to Madzibaba Ishmael’s seven accomplices, erred by adopting a dragnet approach and failing to identify the cult leader.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices stand accused of contravening Section 3 (1) and (2) of the Burial and Cremation Act 5:03 and Section 7(1) and (5) of the Children’s Act 5:06.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Set To Exhume Body Of A Child Buried At Madzibaba Ishmael's Shrine

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa (54), the leader of a Johanne Masowe eChishanu Apostolic religious sect, along with seven other co-accused individuals, appeared before the Harare High Court today to appeal the dismissal of their bail application by a Norton Magistrate.
While the High Court rejected Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s appeal, bail was granted to the remaining seven accused.
Tomorrow, on April 5, 2024, the seven accused persons are scheduled to appear in court for the determination of the proposed bail conditions.
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). 
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa Denied Bail By The High Court

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation into a perplexing case involving 20 young women.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 28 March, the ZRP said these women were discovered hiding at a secret house in Marimba, Harare.
The investigation centres around a religious shrine associated with Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa. 
Madzibaba Ishmael is the leader of a Johanne Masowe eChishanu Apostolic religious sect.
His shrine, located in Nyabira, has drawn attention due to its alleged involvement in the disappearance of these young women.
It is believed that these 20 young women were taken from Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine.
The ZRP is now investigating why these women were taken from the shrine, what purpose the secret house served, and those responsible for the removal of the young women.
As of now, specific details about the circumstances leading to the women’s disappearance and their subsequent discovery remain undisclosed. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating the circumstances in which 20 young women believed to have been taken from Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira have been found hiding at a secret house in Marimba, Harare this afternoon. More details to be released in due course as police officers are currently attending the scene.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

20 Young Women Linked To Madzibaba Ishmael Found In Harare Hideout

The late Professor Itai Muwati’s brother alleges that his sibling was killed at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s shrine due to disagreements over certain directives.
Madzibaba Ishmael allegedly instructed all men to forsake their non-virgin wives upon marriage, pledging to provide them with virgins as replacements — an edict that Professor Muwati apparently opposed.
Admire was speaking on Tilder’s show on StarFM on Tuesday, where he alleged that his brother was killed. He said (via <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/the-virgins-the-fallout-the-professors-murder-ishmael-ordered-all-men-to-dump-wives-who-were-not-virgins-at-marriage-these-men-were-then-promised-to-be-given-virgins-to-take-in-as-n/">H-Metro</a>):
<blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael akaudza vadzidzi vake kuti kana wakaroora mukadzi wako asiri mhandara murambe tinokupa mumwe mukadzi achiri wechidiki ari mhandara.
Varume pavakatanga kunzwa zvemadzimai manyowani vakatanga kusimudza musoro vachiti uku kwanaka kunopihwa madzimai emahara.
Ishmael akazoita munamato wembiya achiita varume kuti misana yavo isimbe nekuti vakange vave kuda kunoita zvevakadzi vakawanda.
Vanhu vese vakanwa from mbiya iyoyo vakabva vaita sokunge vaputirwa zvokuti hapana anonzwisisa ukada kutaura naye kunze kwekunge ndi Ishmael ariye ataura.
(If you try to have a conversation with them, and try to tell them anything bad about Ishmael, they will tell you that “Mambo Ishmael” said we should do this and that.)
</blockquote>
According to Admire, his brother suffered a brutal assault at the hands of Madzibaba Ishmael, following a village court session at the farm. He said:
<blockquote>
There came a time when my brother said what was happening at the church was not right because of the way that people were dying and also if you tried to go against “Mwari” Ishmael, you would die a mysterious death.
My brother was just addressing them as a learned person that the way they were now worshipping was not right.
There was a misunderstanding, among his right hand-men, and there was a village court at the farm, so Ishmael said God had instructed that my brother should die, they took their sticks and started beating my brother.
</blockquote>
Admire said they were now seeking help to go and retrieve the late professor’s property. He said:
<blockquote>
Our brother had wealth and properties and we are now looking for help to go get the things that he left there.
He left behind six children and it is difficult for us to take care of them so we need to go and get the cattle and other domestic animals that he left behind.
In 2022, he told us that he had 27 cattle, meaning that right now if we collect them we can start from somewhere so that his family and children are taken care of and go to school.
</blockquote>
Admire said that his brother’s relationship with Madzibaba Ishmael soured when the latter instructed congregants to liquidate their possessions and sever ties with their families. He said:
<blockquote>
I went against what Madzibaba Ishmael was saying and I left the church.
During that time, many men left their jobs because that is what they were told by Ishmael, my brother continued with his work at the University of Zimbabwe.
When Ishmael was arrested and jailed for four years, and upon his return he went to stay in Murehwa, one of his congregants found plots in Nyabira.
They invited everyone that they used to worship with to go and stay in Nyabira and they referred to it as their land of milk and honey (Canaan).
They were told to sell their phones, beds and televisions, his followers were doing anything and everything he said to the extent that he was referred to as god.
</blockquote>
Chokurongerwa and seven of his followers were arrested recently and appeared before Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro. The court denied them bail, and they were remanded in custody until April 4 for routine proceedings.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
The co-accused are members of the Johane Masowe-aligned Gore Jena Penyera Nyika. Their names include Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). All were represented by lawyer Purity Chikanganise during the court proceedings.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. This violation raises serious legal concerns, as proper documentation is essential for respectful and lawful burials.
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. The welfare of these vulnerable children is at the heart of the charges brought against the accused.
In a related incident, police raided the farm where the sect operated and rescued 251 children. Shockingly, 246 of these children were found to have no birth certificates, highlighting potential issues related to their legal identity and rights.
Additionally, during the investigation, authorities discovered 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. These graves were determined to belong to nine adults and seven children. The circumstances surrounding these burials remain a subject of scrutiny.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Professor Muwati Challenged Madzibaba Ishmael's Orders, And Was Killed For That"

Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has unequivocally refuted a statement purportedly issued by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which directed law enforcement agents to immediately release Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa and his co-accused.
In a post on X captioning the fake statement, Charamba, the Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet (Presidential Communications) said:
<blockquote>
They will try all sorts of propaganda, what they can never do is to match the house style of OPC!
</blockquote>
The fake statement, titled “Presidential Directive: Release of Ishmael Chokurongerwa and Co-accused”, reads:
<blockquote>
Esteemed citizens, under the authority vested in the Presidency by Section 56 (1) of our esteemed constitution, it is directed that Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa and his co-accused be released forthwith.
The Presidency holds the firm belief that the allegations against these individuals, charged with purported violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act, stemming from the discovery of 251 school-age children engaged in manual labour at their agricultural enterprise, alongside the presence of 16 unregistered graves, lack substantial merit.
It is worth noting that Madzibaba Ishmael has played a significant role within the Mapostori community during the recent electoral campaign.
In this regard, the President wishes to emphasize to the public the importance of refraining from attaching undue criticism to other religious affiliations and warns against the dissemination of false information.
</blockquote>
Chokurongerwa and his seven co-accused appeared before Norton magistrate Ms Christine Nyandoro. The court denied them bail, and they were remanded in custody until April 4 for routine proceedings.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
The co-accused are members of the Johane Masowe-aligned Gore Jena Penyera Nyika. Their names include Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). All were represented by lawyer Purity Chikanganise during the court proceedings.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. This violation raises serious legal concerns, as proper documentation is essential for respectful and lawful burials.
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. The welfare of these vulnerable children is at the heart of the charges brought against the accused.
In a related incident, police raided the farm where the sect operated and rescued 251 children. Shockingly, 246 of these children were found to have no birth certificates, highlighting potential issues related to their legal identity and rights.
Additionally, during the investigation, authorities discovered 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. These graves were determined to belong to nine adults and seven children. The circumstances surrounding these burials remain a subject of scrutiny.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Charamba Denies Purported Mnangagwa Order To Release Madzibaba Ishmael

Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leader Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa has been denied bail by Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro.
Despite the accused’s assurances that they would not flee or obstruct justice, their significant influence within their community was deemed a considerable risk.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/madzibaba-ishmael-denied-bail-state-says-cult-leader-will-likely-victimise-witnesses-if-released/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused persons are serious charges including exploiting minors and contravening burial and cremation laws.
The eight will be back in court on April 4 for their routine remand.
In denying the group bail, the magistrate said there is a need to protect the interests of the nation as much as bail is a constitutional right. Said Nyandoro:
<blockquote>
Court will be guided by section 50 of the Constitution which provides that a person can only be deprived of bail if there are compelling reasons for bail denial.
</blockquote>
The State submitted that if released the accused are likely to interfere with witnesses and also that there will be public outrage and continued victimisation of witnesses.
The accused said they would not abscond and not interfere with witnesses. They said they needed to go back because the lives of 120 depend on them.
Nyandoro said the State’s reasons were quite compelling and outweighed the accused’s submissions. She said:
<blockquote>
In a nutshell, the State has managed to provide compelling reasons and the accused will remain in custody.
</blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael and his co-accused are represented by Purity Chikanganise.
Chokurongerwa is part of a wider group known as the white garment churches, Apostolic churches, or Vapostori.
These groups follow varying practices, some of which are at odds with the law, including underage marriages and resistance to modern medicine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa And Co-accused Denied Bail

Tendai Mukombe, the first wife of Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, has lifted the veil on their tumultuous marriage.
Her candid revelations paint a picture of hypocrisy, secrecy, and hardship within the confines of their unconventional family.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/madzibaba-ishmaels-ex-wife-claims-he-is-a-hypocrite-she-says-he-paid-lobola-for-her-took-birth-certificates-for-their-kids-marriage-collapsed-after-fallout-due-to-his-move-to-get-an/">H-Metro</a>, Mukombe said that Madzibaba Ishmael was a hypocrite. While he preaches to his devoted followers, his actions behind closed doors tell a different story.
She said his ability to sway minds and “brainwash” his army of faithful adherents contrasts sharply with the reality of his personal life.
Mukombe and Madzibaba Ishmael share a complicated history. They have eight children together, but two of their kids have passed away.
Four of their children reside with their father in the mystical realm of “Canaan.” Mukombe, on the other hand, lives with her two boys, in rural Murehwa, Mashonaland East Province.
The breaking point in their marriage came when Madzibaba Ishmael took a second wife.  Interestingly, Mukombe claims to know only the second wife, unaware of the existence of the other seven wives in Madzibaba Ishmael’s clandestine network.
Mukombe said her daughters are now married but she never received any lobola (bride price) for them. Madzibaba Ishmael’s decree outlawed this customary practice.
Strangely, he paid lobola for Mukombe in full, securing her as his first wife. Additionally, he possesses birth certificates for all eight of their children.
Yet, these certificates remain forbidden within the sacred confines of Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. Said Tendai:
<blockquote>
I never received any lobola from my son-in-laws since Madzibaba Ishmael abolished the lobola custom.
Asi iye akandibvisira pfuma yose zvekuti baba namai vangu vakapfeka mbatya nekudya roora rese.
Madzibaba Ishmael acquired birth certificates for all his children with me.
It is my prayer for Madzibaba Ishmael to repent, to look after all his children and to be released from prison for good.
</blockquote>
She also claimed she was blocked by Madzibaba Ishmael from receiving any kind of support from him, his church and any of her children after she refused to support his church’s doctrine. She said:
<blockquote>
My life has not been good since the outbreak of COVID-19, in March 2020.
That is the time he ditched me, following a misunderstanding over his decision to marry his second wife.
Ndakaramba kuenda kuNyabira ndikati handingasiye dzimba dzangu, ndinofira pano.
My marital issues haunted me and I nearly took my life, but my neighbours urged me to soldier on and remain prayerful.
</blockquote>
Mukombe’s life took a dramatic turn when her rural home, a sanctuary of memories and struggles, was unexpectedly put up for sale by Madzibaba Ishmael.
In her desperate plea for mercy, she encountered compassionate homeseekers who understood the gravity of her predicament.
But the challenges did not end there. When Madzibaba Ishmael faced arrest after the Budiriro incident, Tendai found herself thrust into an unfamiliar role. With her husband behind bars, she became the sole provider for their children.
In the quiet corners of her modest home, Mukombe grappled with the harsh realities of poverty and the enigma of a spiritual leader who had once promised solace but now left her to fend for herself and their children. She said:
<blockquote>
He was jailed and I had to fend for the children alone. He was jailed when I was nursing our last born and the baby died while he was in prison.
Upon his release, Madzibaba Ishmael inflicted more pain on me by marrying another wife.
</blockquote>
She said her marriage caused her a great deal of suffering and she decided to stop going to Madzibaba Ishmael’s church and joined another Johanne Masowe yeChishanu because she was being mocked and her children were not being supported.
Mukombe said Madzibaba Ishmael convinced the children that he was not going to look after them if they were to remain with her.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael’s Ex-wife, Tendai Mukombe, Says He Is A Hyprocrite

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a self-styled prophet and leader of Johane Masowe (Gore Jena Penyeranyika), Ishmael Chokurongerwa (56) at his Lily Farm in Nyabira on Tuesday, 12 March.
ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Nyathi on Wednesday, 13 March said Chokurongerwa and seven members of his church were arrested for criminal activities which include abuse of minors.
The other church members who were arrested are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The arrest follows a raid made by the Police at the farm on 12th March 2024. Investigations conducted by the Police established that 246 out of 251 children below the age of 18 years found at the farm had no birth certificates and were being used to perform various physical activities for the benefit of the sect’s leadership.
Police established that all children of school-going age did not attend formal education and were subjected to abuse as cheap labour, doing manual work in the name of being taught life skills.
At the shrine, 16 graves were found of which nine graves are for adults and seven graves for infants. All burials were conducted without prior registration with the Registrar-General’s office in terms of the Birth and Death Registration Act, Chapter 5:02 or without obtaining burial orders in terms of the Burial and Cremation Act, Chapter 5:03.
</blockquote>
Asst Comm Nyathi said police will release more details in due course as investigations unfold.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael, 7 Others Arrested For Various Criminal Activities - Police

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