HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — A court in Zimbabwe has freed a pastor who organized a nationwide strike against the government, ruling that police violated his rights.

Magistrate Vakayi Chikwekwe told a packed courtroom that the decision to bring new charges in court against Evan Mawarire was unconstitutional.

Mawarire was originally charged with inciting violence when he was arrested on Tuesday, but prosecutors changed the charge just before his court appearance Wednesday to more serious charges of attempting to overthrow a constitutionally elected government.

Mawarire's lawyer protested that the change in the charges was unconstitutional and the magistrate agreed.

Hundreds of singing supporters are waiting for Mawarire's release.