Saturday, August 08

Magaya Board Guard Tapiwa Felix Chikondo, 34, Is A Soldier

A soldier who works as a bodyguard for Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries leader Walter Magaya has appeared in court accused of assaulting police officers who were sent to arrest the preacher at his Waterfalls prayer mountain last week.

 

Tapiwa Felix Chikondo, 34, appeared before Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa charged with defeating or obstructing the course of justice and, alternatively, assaulting or resisting a peace officer under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

 

He arrived in court handcuffed to Magaya, who made two court appearances charged with rape and fraud.

 

Chikondo, an active soldier in the Zimbabwe National Army, allegedly attacked Detective Assistant Inspector Munyaradzi Chifamba when police officers arrived at Magaya’s prayer mountain in Waterfalls on November 1 to execute a warrant of arrest against the preacher in connection with fraud and rape investigations.

 

A statement by Officer-in-Charge Washington Mashizha of the CID Commercial Crimes Division said Chikondo drove up to the officers in a sky-blue Nissan Dayz, blocked their vehicle and “furiously demanded to know why they were there.”

 

“He shouted that we had no permission to be where we were since the place was his,” Mashizha said in his report.

 

“He then charged towards Detective Assistant Inspector Chifamba and pushed him to the ground before we managed to restrain and handcuff him.”

 

 

 

 

The police claim Chikondo acted violently and had previously been mentioned in connection with other alleged assaults involving Magaya’s aides.

 

Defence lawyer Stephen Chikotora said Chikondo was being made a scapegoat in a wider investigation targeting Magaya.

 

“The accused was merely at the boom gate when detectives went to arrest Prophet Magaya,” Chikotora argued.

 

 

 

 

“He never interfered with the arrest and was not even aware of what was happening up the mountain. The state is trading on speculation. This is not a serious offence — even on conviction, the maximum sentence is one year.”

 

Chikotora said Chikondo’s cellphones were confiscated and he was denied access to his lawyers soon after arrest. He told the court that Chikondo owned a house in Harare, lived with his wife and children, and was a serving member of the army — all indicators, he argued, that he was not a flight risk.

 

Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti, however, opposed bail, saying the accused had “a propensity to commit violent offences” and was likely to abscond.

 

“The accused has another pending case at Waterfalls Police Station involving defeating the course of justice,” Mutsokoti said.

 

 

 

 

“That record alone shows a pattern. Even if he surrenders his passport, it’s no guarantee he won’t leave by other means.”

 

Magistrate Gofa rolled over the matter to 8:30AM on Tuesday for a bail ruling. - ZIMLIVE

  • Share:

Info News

Mortgage Refinancing: Lower Your Payments and Save More Over Time

Mortgage refinancing is one of the most effective financial strategies homeowners can use to reduce monthly payments, lower interest rates, or access home equity. By replacing your existing mortgage with a new loan that has better terms, you can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Whether you're looking for low interest mortgage rates, cash-out refinancing options, or fixed-rate home loans, understanding how refinancing works is essential before making a decision.

rnrn

Refinancing is especially popular when interest rates drop or when a homeowner’s credit score improves. Many borrowers take advantage of refinancing to switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage, providing long-term financial stability. Others use cash-out refinancing to tap into their home’s equity, allowing them to fund renovations, consolidate debt, or invest in other opportunities. While refinancing offers many benefits, it’s important to carefully evaluate your goals and financial situation to ensure it’s the right move.

rnrn

How Mortgage Refinancing Works

rnrn

When you refinance your mortgage, you essentially take out a new loan to pay off your existing one. The new loan comes with updated terms, including a new interest rate, repayment period, and monthly payment. Lenders will evaluate your financial profile, including your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and home value, to determine eligibility.

rnrn

The process typically involves submitting an application, providing documentation, and undergoing a home appraisal. Once approved, the new loan replaces your current mortgage, and you begin making payments under the new terms. Many homeowners search for best mortgage refinance lenders to ensure they secure the most favorable deal.

rnrn

Benefits of Refinancing Your Mortgage

rnrn

One of the biggest advantages of refinancing is the opportunity to secure a lower interest rate. Even a small reduction in your rate can lead to significant savings over time. Lower monthly payments can free up cash flow, making it easier to manage other financial responsibilities.

rnrn

Another benefit is the ability to shorten your loan term. For example, switching from a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year loan allows you to pay off your home faster and reduce total interest costs. Additionally, cash-out refinancing gives homeowners access to funds for major expenses, often at lower interest rates than personal loans or credit cards.

rnrn

When Is the Right Time to Refinance?

rnrn

Timing plays a critical role in refinancing decisions. Homeowners should consider refinancing when interest rates are significantly lower than their current rate. A general rule of thumb is that reducing your rate by at least 1% can make refinancing worthwhile.

rnrn

Improving your credit score can also help you qualify for better loan terms. If your financial situation has improved since you first obtained your mortgage, refinancing could provide substantial savings. Additionally, homeowners planning to stay in their property long-term are more likely to benefit from refinancing, as it takes time to recover closing costs.

rnrn

Costs and Considerations

rnrn

While refinancing offers many benefits, it’s important to consider the associated costs. These may include application fees, appraisal fees, and closing costs, which can range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Calculating your break-even point—the time it takes to recover these costs—is essential before proceeding.

rnrn

Borrowers should also be cautious about extending their loan term, as this can increase the total amount of interest paid over time. Working with a trusted mortgage refinancing company can help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision.

rnrn

Final Thoughts

rnrn

Mortgage refinancing can be a powerful tool for improving your financial situation, but it requires careful planning and research. By understanding the process, comparing lenders, and evaluating your long-term goals, you can make a decision that aligns with your needs. Whether you’re looking to reduce monthly payments or access equity, refinancing offers opportunities for greater financial flexibility.

rnrn

 

rnrn

Financial experts recommend working with licensed mortgage lenders, certified financial advisors, and reputable home loan providers when considering refinancing options. Professional guidance ensures better loan terms and long-term financial stability.

rn

Digital Marketing & SEO Services: Driving Online Growth

Digital marketing and SEO services help businesses increase visibility and revenue. Companies invest heavily in these services to stay competitive.

rnrn

Keywords like “SEO services” and “digital marketing agency” are highly competitive. Content should focus on strategies and results.

rnrn

Providing actionable insights improves engagement and rankings. This niche attracts high-value business clients.

rn