The State has filed an application at the Harare Regional Magistrates’ Court seeking to compel prominent religious leader Walter Magaya to formally enter a plea in the criminal case he is facing.
According to the prosecution, the application was made under Section 168 and Section 182 of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act [Chapter 9:07]. The State argues that the case has faced significant delays due to a series of court applications filed by Magaya, which prosecutors claim have prevented the trial from starting.
The prosecution further stated that many of these applications appear to be frivolous and vexatious, and have effectively slowed down the legal process, delaying justice for the alleged victims and witnesses connected to the matter.
In its submission to the court, the State emphasized that criminal proceedings should move forward without unnecessary delays, noting that victims have a right to see cases handled in a fair and timely manner.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the justice system operates efficiently, fairly, and without prolonged obstruction.
The court is expected to consider the State’s request as the case continues, with the prosecution pushing for the trial to finally move forward after months of procedural delays.
