Tinotenda Hove- The High Court has granted self-proclaimed King Munhumutapa, Timothy Chiminya, bail of US$200 pending the determination of his appeal against both his conviction and sentence.

Chiminya was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment by Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai after being found guilty of undermining the authority of the President.

According to the prosecution, Chiminya claimed traditional leadership powers and embarked on a “dethroning spree,” during which he purported to depose chiefs who had been officially installed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

He allegedly replaced them with individuals of his own choosing, actions the court ruled had no legal standing and amounted to a direct challenge to constitutionally recognised authority.

In granting bail, the High Court noted that Chiminya had filed an appeal and would be released under strict conditions while the matter is being considered.