Madzibaba Ishmael granted bail

Zim Now Writer

The High Court has granted controversial religious cult leader, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, US$1 000 bail after he had spent 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.

The National Prosecuting Authority said 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.

On top of the order to deposit US$1 000 with the clerk of court at Norton Magistrstes’ Courts, the High Court also barred Chokurongerwa from conducting any church gatherings anywhere until the matter is finalised.