Timothy Chiminya, who claims to be King Munhumutapa, was arrested and detained by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on charges of undermining the authority of or insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Chiminya’s arrest occurred on December 16, when police officers accused him of acting unlawfully and causing ridicule to President Mnangagwa. The self-styled king allegedly appointed chiefs, a task reportedly reserved for the leader of the ruling Zanu-PF party.
Chiminya, represented by Gift Mtisi of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, faces additional accusations of dethroning chiefs appointed by President Mnangagwa in various parts of Zimbabwe.
On December 18, Chiminya appeared before Harare Magistrate Sheunesu Matova and was remanded in custody until January 7, 2025. The delay allows for two medical doctors to conduct a mental health evaluation on Chiminya, as requested by prosecutors.
Chiminya has constantly asserted that a High Court ruling in September 2022 unified all chiefs in Zimbabwe under his authority. He demanded cooperation from traditional leaders and payment of outstanding wages from the government.
In a letter to the president of chiefs, Mtshana Khumalo, dated August 15, 2024, Chiminya stated that the ruling required all chiefs, headmen, and sabhukus to be accredited by King Munhumutapa, who would have the final say in matters related to traditional leadership.
He claimed the decision aimed to promote unity, peace, and cooperation among traditional leaders in Zimbabwe.
Chiminya noted that the local government had failed to defend the case, leading to the High Court granting the decision in favour of King Munhumutapa. He urged cooperation and respect for the High Court judgement, citing the importance of working together towards a common goal.
In another letter dated August 19, 2024, directed to the Ministry of Local Government, Chiminya demanded his outstanding wages.
He referenced a court order, Case No. HC3981/22, granted in Harare on September 28, 2022, and threatened to take further legal action if the payment was not made within 14 days.
However, in May 2024, Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe disowned Chiminya, stating that he was an impostor since the Constitution had no provision for a monarch.
Garwe stated that Chiminya’s claim was unconstitutional and therefore a nullity.
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