By Self imposed King Munhumutapa Timothy Chiminya will spend Christmas and New Year behind bars after being committed to remand prison for a mental health evaluation. Chiminya, who claims to be the legitimate King Munhumutapa, was arrested on Monday and appeared before Magistrate Sheunesu Matova on Wednesday.
The state alleges that Chiminya has been installing chiefs across the country, violating Section 283 of the Constitution and the Traditional Leaders Act. Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu requested a mental health examination, citing concerns about Chiminya’s stability. Advocate Gift Mtisi, representing Chiminya, contested this, arguing that Chiminya showed no signs of violence or mental illness.
Mtisi also applied for Chiminya’s release into a relative’s custody, highlighting his peaceful nature and government-approved cultural heritage education program. However, the prosecutor and investigating officer opposed this, citing the seriousness of the charge and concerns about Chiminya’s behavior.
Chiminya’s activities are based on his claimed installation as King Munhumutapa by his clan and a 2022 High Court ruling. He believes this grants him authority over chief appointments, contradicting the state’s position that the President holds this power.
Chiminya will return to court on January 7, pending the mental health evaluation. He also faces a related case against the Local Government ministry, to be heard this Friday.
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