The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested and detained Timothy Chiminya, who styles himself as “King Munhumutapa,” on charges of undermining the authority of or insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Chiminya was apprehended on 16 December by ZRP officers, who alleged that his actions—such as purporting to appoint and dethrone Chiefs—undermine the President’s authority. Prosecutors argue that these activities, which are constitutionally under the President’s purview, ridicule and challenge his leadership.
Represented by Gift Mtisi of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), Chiminya appeared before Harare Magistrate Sheunesu Matowa on 18 December. The court remanded him in custody until 7 January 2025, pending a mental health evaluation by two doctors, as requested by prosecutors.
