Self-proclaimed prophet Tapiwa Freddy has, for the tenth time, failed to appear before the Kadoma Magistrate’s Court, where he is the main complainant in a long-running land dispute with prominent property developer Kudakwashe Taruberekera. The high-profile case continues to face delays due to Freddy’s consistent absence, raising concerns about the legitimacy and intent behind his legal claim.
The case, which centres on Stand Number 7510, Mandalay of Sabonabona in Kadoma — a 4,000 square metre plot — was scheduled to proceed last Tuesday but was postponed yet again by Magistrate Yeukai Dzuda. The new trial date has been set for July 4, as the court continues to await crucial documentation and the appearance of key witnesses, including Freddy himself.
Only Taruberekera, the defendant in the matter, appeared in court for the latest hearing. His lawyer, Simon Musapatika of Danziger and Partners Legal Practitioners, expressed deep frustration over Freddy’s continued no-shows and the lack of progress in resolving the case.
“It appears the matter is being strategically dragged to wear down our client, who has consistently complied with court appearances, while the complainant has shown complete disregard for the legal process,” Musapatika said.
The case dates back to 2016, when Freddy claims Taruberekera, founder of Craft Properties, donated the plot of land to him. However, in 2021, the developer revoked the deed of donation, citing Freddy’s alleged failure to meet conditions attached to the agreement. This revocation triggered a legal complaint from Freddy, who escalated the matter and involved the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
Prophet Freddy Fails to Show Up in Court Yet Again
Despite being the one to initiate legal proceedings, Freddy has never attended any of the court sessions since the matter was first brought to court in February 2025. His absence has become a recurring obstacle, causing growing unease among court officials and legal observers.
Freddy’s consistent failure to attend has not only delayed justice but has also fuelled speculation about his true motives. Critics argue that his actions reflect a lack of seriousness and may be a calculated effort to prolong the proceedings, potentially to frustrate the other party into conceding.
Musapatika also criticised the prolonged delay in acquiring an official letter from the Kadoma City Council — a document the state considers key to the trial. “How it takes over two months to get a simple letter is beyond comprehension,” he remarked.
Taruberekera, for his part, has consistently maintained that the dispute is a civil matter and that Freddy’s decision to rope in ZACC was a form of intimidation. In an affidavit submitted to the court, the businessman stated, “The involvement of ZACC was an act of malice. If the donation was truly valid, the complainant should have approached Craft Properties directly instead of escalating it through anti-corruption authorities.”
He further voiced frustration over the continuous delays, saying that the lack of closure is harming his business. “Our operations are being disrupted and we are incurring unnecessary legal and logistical costs,” he explained.
As the case drags into its fifth month, observers are beginning to question whether justice will ultimately be served. Some legal experts warn that Freddy’s repeated absences could not only weaken his position but also risk the dismissal of the case altogether for lack of prosecution.
“The judiciary relies on all parties showing a minimum level of cooperation and respect for the process,” said a Harare-based legal analyst who asked not to be named. “If Freddy continues to ignore summonses, the court may be forced to take more drastic steps, including the possibility of dismissing the case or issuing a warrant of arrest.”
Meanwhile, residents of Kadoma and the business community are closely watching developments. The case has become a symbol of how high-profile personalities often manipulate the legal system, sometimes to the detriment of those who comply with due process.
As the July 4 date approaches, all eyes will be on whether Freddy will finally make an appearance and allow the court to hear his side of the story — or whether the case will remain in limbo, prolonging uncertainty for everyone involved.
Source- Bulawayo24
