Cult Leader Madzibaba Ishmael Granted Bail, Barred From Conducting Church 

Two locked up for harbouring witnesses to jailed cult leader’s crimes

Controversial religious cult leader, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, has finally been granted bail by the High Court after spending 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.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), 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.

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