Harare socialite and self-styled entertainer Millicent Chimonyo, better known to her online followers as “Malloti,” appeared in court on Thursday facing charges of cyberbullying controversial preacher and music promoter, Passion Java.
Malloti, 26, who has built a reputation for using explicit and provocative language in her social media posts, was arraigned before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzayi. She is accused of using vulgar and demeaning remarks to insult Java in a video that was widely circulated on social media platforms.
The State, represented by prosecutor Nomsa Kangara, did not oppose her release on bail. Magistrate Kuhudzayi granted Malloti bail of US$100, coupled with strict reporting conditions pending trial.
According to the prosecution’s outline, the alleged offence took place on May 14, 2025. On that date, Malloti is said to have recorded a video in which she directed offensive language at Java, attacking his recent involvement in the Zim dancehall music scene.
In the video, prosecutors claim, Malloti accused Java of treating the genre with disrespect and “taking it for granted,” before going further to liken it to pornography. The language she allegedly used was described in court documents as “unprintable” and in clear violation of the law governing online communications.
“The said utterances by the accused person were in violation of the law,” the State outline reads. Prosecutors are charging her under provisions of Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act, which criminalises the use of electronic communication to intimidate, harass, or cause emotional distress to others.
Harare Socialite ‘Malloti’ in Court Over Cyberbullying Charges Targeting Passion Java
Under her bail conditions, Malloti has been ordered to report to the police once every two weeks, reside at the address she gave to the court, and refrain from contacting or in any way interfering with State witnesses. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in her bail being revoked.
The case has attracted considerable public attention due to the prominence of both personalities involved. Passion Java, born Panganai Java, is a self-proclaimed prophet known for his flamboyant lifestyle, political associations, and influence in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry, particularly Zim dancehall and gospel music. His ventures often spark both adoration from fans and criticism from detractors who accuse him of seeking publicity through controversy.
Malloti, meanwhile, has cultivated a large social media following by broadcasting outspoken, often provocative commentary on trending issues, celebrity culture, and politics. Her online persona has landed her in previous spats with public figures, but this is the first time she has faced formal legal action over her remarks.
Court observers say the case will test how far Zimbabwe’s relatively new cyberbullying laws can go in policing social media speech, especially where public figures and criticism of their work are involved. While the law provides for the protection of individuals from harmful online conduct, free speech advocates have warned that it could be used to stifle legitimate expression and commentary.
For supporters of Java, the case is a welcome move to hold online personalities accountable for what they view as defamatory and abusive speech. On the other hand, some of Malloti’s followers have defended her remarks as part of her signature blunt commentary style, arguing that public figures in entertainment and religion should expect strong criticism.
In recent years, Zimbabwean courts have seen a growing number of cases involving allegations of cyberbullying, harassment, and defamation conducted via social media. The rise of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok has provided both a stage for public discourse and a battleground for personal and political feuds.
Legal analysts point out that under the Cyber and Data Protection Act, convictions for cyberbullying can result in fines or custodial sentences, depending on the severity of the offence and its impact on the complainant. In some cases, courts have also ordered public apologies or the removal of offending content as part of sentencing.
As for Malloti, she has yet to publicly comment on the case. Her social media accounts, which often feature live streams and unfiltered video rants, have been quiet since news of her arrest broke earlier this week. Whether she will tone down her online presence or continue in her usual style remains to be seen.
The matter has been remanded for further proceedings, with the trial date yet to be set. For now, both her fans and critics will be watching closely as the case unfolds, not only for its entertainment value but also for the precedent it could set in Zimbabwe’s evolving digital speech landscape.
Source- Bulawayo24
