A popular Gweru “prophet” from the Johane Masowe sect, whose church drew large gatherings due to his “powers”, has been slapped with an effective 18 months’ jail term for seriously assaulting a former congregant.
Report by Stephen Chadenga, Own Correspondent
Gweru magistrate Pathekile Msipa sentenced Madzibaba Medaldo Ruzungunde (45), leader of the church in Ivene suburb, to 36 months in prison for grievously assaulting Elizabeth Doba (47).
Msipa, however, suspended 18 months for five years on condition of good behaviour, but ruled out community service, saying this was due to the gravity of the matter.
The court heard that on July 7, 2009 at around 9pm, Doba went to Ruzungunde, who was in the company of three other church members, intending to collect her belongings at the church.
An argument ensued after Doba had threatened to spill the beans on the alleged unspecified wayward behaviour of the “prophet”. This angered Ruzungunde who then assaulted her with clenched fists and kicked her on the left side of the shoulder and head.
Doba sustained permanent injuries which resulted in her using crutches for walking.
Andrew Marimo prosecuted.
