By Desire Tshuma
Harare – Self-styled prophet Madzibaba Gathry Chiredzero was today sentenced to 20 years in prison after a regional court convicted him of rape. His wife, Diana Chauke, was sentenced to an effective 15 years’ imprisonment after being convicted as an accomplice to the offence. Regional Magistrate Estere Chivasa delivered the sentences this morning at the Harare Regional Court.
According to information verified by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, NPAZ, the couple had been jointly charged with the complainant’s mother on allegations of rape. The State case presented at the start of trial alleged that Chiredzero raped the minor victim while Chauke and the child’s mother facilitated the offence. The court heard that the abuse occurred over a period and that the accused persons acted in concert. The charge sheet initially reflected all three as co-accused, with the State alleging common purpose in the commission of the crime.
In its judgment, the court acquitted the victim’s mother. Magistrate Chivasa ruled that the defence presented by the mother was “reasonably possibly true.” The court accepted submissions that she had acted under intimidation after Chiredzero allegedly threatened her with a firearm, leaving her with no real choice but to comply. That finding saw her being cleared of all charges and set free.
The court found that sufficient evidence had been led to prove that Chiredzero committed rape, and that Chauke played an active role as an accomplice. In passing sentence, Magistrate Chivasa said the court considered the seriousness of the offence, the breach of trust, and the need for deterrence in cases involving vulnerable victims. Chiredzero was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment. Chauke received 15 years’ imprisonment, to be served effectively. Both were taken into custody immediately to begin serving their sentences.
The case drew wide public interest because Chiredzero is a known religious figure who leads a congregation. Cases involving the abuse of positions of authority have been a focus of the courts and child rights groups in recent years. Magistrate Chivasa said in passing sentence that the courts have a duty to protect children and to ensure that perpetrators, regardless of status in society, face the full wrath of the law. The National Prosecuting Authority had opposed bail throughout the trial, arguing the gravity of the offence.
Chiredzero and Chauke have the right to appeal both conviction and sentence to the High Court within the prescribed period.