Prosper Dembedza
Herald correspondent
Harare-based preacher Batsirai Java’s case of publishing or communicating false statements prejudicial to the State was on Thursday referred back to the police during vetting at the Harare Magistrates Court because there is no cyber report yet on the matter.
Java (43) reportedly handed himself over to CID Law and Order at Harare Central Police Station on Thursday.
It is alleged that on an unknown date, but during the period extending from May 25, 2026 to May 28, 2026, the accused person and his accomplice Everson Mushava, who is still at large, had a telephone conversation which they recorded and published or caused it to be published on several social media platforms including Facebook, in particular on Zimlive com. Facebook page with a link nttps www,.facebook.com/share/v/igesSyutXn/ headlined “Journalist’s call with Apostle Batsirai Java leaks”.
The State alleges that during the telephone conversation the accused persons made false statements claiming that Kudakwashe Tagwirei is now the Kingmaker in Zimbabwe and has taken over control of all Government business to the extent that the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe consults him regarding the removal or appointment of Ministers.
They further alleged that Government business is now being carried out at Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s house as all ministers, senior police officers, senior army officers, Central Intelligence Organisation directors, military generals, Supreme Court judges, the Judge President, and the Chief Justice report at Tagwirei’s house upon being called to do so by him.
The State alleges that the accused persons published or communicated the statement knowing it was wholly and materially false, intending to undermine public confidence in the law enforcement agencies, the prison service and the Defence Forces of Zimbabwe.
