ZACC launches investigation into Walter Magaya over fake UNISA qualifications

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has initiated a fraud investigation into Prophet Walter Magaya, founder of the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, over a dubious diploma from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

The diploma in question was submitted to the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and High Court in Harare as part of Magaya’s bid to contest the ZIFA presidency.

At the center of the investigation is the authenticity of the diploma, which UNISA claims was never conferred upon Magaya.

UNISA has stated that Magaya was neither a student nor a graduate of the institution, rendering any certificate he produces from UNISA as fraudulent.

ZACC has requested documents from ZIFA and the Judicial Service Commission to verify Magaya’s qualifications.

The anti-graft body sent out the requests for information on January 31, seeking to confirm the validity of the diploma and other qualifications submitted by Magaya.

Magaya, who owns Yadah Stars FC, was disqualified from contesting the ZIFA elections due to his failure to submit an O’ Level certificate, a key requirement for candidates vying for the presidency or vice presidency.

He subsequently submitted a copy of the disputed diploma, certified by police in Waterfalls, in an attempt to demonstrate his eligibility for the position.

The investigation may lead to serious consequences for Magaya, as the offense of submitting a forged diploma is punishable under Section 137 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. If found guilty, Magaya could face a fine, a 20-year prison sentence, or both.

In refuting Magaya’s claims, UNISA stated: “Based on the information provided, the system of the university could not find any record showing that Mr Magaya was ever registered or graduated with UNISA.

“This means that UNISA does not have Mr Magaya as a student or a graduate. Any certificate he may present claiming to be from Unisa is fraudulent.”