High Court Stops Chief Murinye from Harassing Riverton Academy
The High Court has slapped an urgent interim interdict on Chief Murinye, born Ephias Munodawafa, barring him from interfering with Riverton Academy Extension in Machingura Village after ruling his actions unlawful.
Justice Josephine Zisengwe issued the order following a January 11 incident in which Murinye allegedly used his vehicle to block parents from dropping off learners and threatened to unleash snakes on the school premises.
The chief had argued that the school was built on communal land without proper approvals, claiming authority under the Traditional Leaders Act. The court disagreed.
“Traditional leaders are not above the law and must follow formal legal processes if they are aggrieved, just like any other citizen,” Justice Zisengwe said.
ALSO READ: Chief Takes School Dispute to Mnangagwa, Challenges Legality of Riverton Academy
The judge found that the school’s owner, Philimon Mutangiri, was committed to resolving compliance issues while keeping the school operational. Pending final determination, Murinye and anyone acting on his behalf are ordered to stop blocking access or disrupting learning.
“In the final analysis, I am satisfied that the applicant has managed to satisfy the requirements for granting of the interim interdict he seeks…
“The respondent and those claiming through him are hereby interdicted from unlawfully blocking the road accessing Riverton Academy Extension,” the judgment reads.
Justice Zisengwe also suggested the chief’s motives were personal.
“His prior interactions show that he was not averse to the construction of the school; all he wanted were certain personal conditions met,” she said, noting that Murinye had demanded money and other benefits while only contributing US$21 000 for a single power line and transformer.
More: Midweek watch
