The infamous Budiriro prophet, who grabbed headlines when he claimed that two naked women who were found at his house were witches, has appeared in court.

Prophet Alfred Mupfambati is facing the same charge with the two women, who claimed that their names are Maria Moyo and Chipo Chakaja – common feminine names indeed.

The self proclaimed prophet was not asked to plead when he appeared before Mbare magistrate Rueben Mukavhi facing charges of contravening Section 98 of the Codification and Reform Act which is associated with witchcraft.

Represented by his defence counsel Allen Moyo of Mupindu legal Practitioners, Alfred Mupfambati (30), successfully applied for bail after a strong submission.

There was wild ululation after he was granted bail as multitudes of his followers were waiting for him outside the courtroom.

Defence counsel Allen cited that Alfred was a suitable candidate for bail since he was the one who led the other two co-accused to the police and there was no way he could abscond trial. He further added that there was no way he could interfere with State witnesses or investigations thus he was suitable for freedom.

While State counsel Fanuel Madanire submitted that Alfred was not suitable for bail since he was evading arrest and he cited the issue of publicity of the matter to be considered, Magistrate Mukavhi granted the ruling in Alfred’s favour after considering that the defence counsel had a strong defence case.

The magistrate however ordered the prophet to deposit US$200 as bail with Mbare clerk of court and report three times at Budiriro police station. He is expected back in court on 7 October for his trial.