Crimes and Courts
HARARE – Controversial socialite and dancehall artist Millicent “Malloti” Chimonyo broke her silence Saturday night following her court appearance over cyberbullying charges involving clergyman Passion Java. In a fiery Facebook post, Malloti denied reports that Java had withdrawn the complaint, claiming he demanded a public apology first – which she refused.
Court Details and Bail
Malloti appeared before Harare Magistrate Dennis Mangosi on Thursday, facing charges under Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act. Prosecutors allege she posted content in June 2025 “intended to harass or cause emotional distress” to Java. Released on US$100 bail, her next court date remains unset.
Malloti’s Public Statement
Directly contradicting claims of case withdrawal, Malloti declared:
“Hakuna nyaya yaka withdrawewa, musanyeperwe, Yuwi hanzi Apologise ndi withdrawe nyaya musandijairire imi tosangana ku trial.”
(“No case was withdrawn, don’t be deceived. He [Java] said, ‘Apologise so I withdraw the case’ – don’t take me for granted. We’ll meet at trial.”)
Lawyer Highlights Pregnancy Concerns
Malloti’s lawyer, Dumisani Mthombeni, raised alarms about her treatment while pregnant:
“She spent two nights at Machipisa Police Station without being formally charged until the next morning. Given her advanced pregnancy, urgent medical monitoring is essential.
This custodial ordeal endangered both mother and unborn child.”
Legal Stakes
The case tests Zimbabwe’s cyber laws, where convictions can bring fines, community service, or imprisonment. Court officials confirmed the matter proceeds unless Java formally files withdrawal papers – which haven’t been submitted despite speculation.
Background
The feud between Malloti and Java – both polarizing public figures – has fueled social media wars for months.
This marks Zimbabwe’s first high-profile cyberbullying case involving celebrities since the Act’s 2021 enactment.
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