Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
A BULAWAYO teenager’s courage in speaking out has exposed a church leader accused of abusing his spiritual authority to sexually exploit her, in a chilling reminder of why victims must never stay silent.
Emmanuel Apostolic Church bishop, Joseph Munetsi (38) of Njube suburb, was dragged before Bulawayo regional magistrate Mark Dzira facing rape and indecent assault charges. He was remanded in custody TO 3 October.
Prosecutor Hazel Ncube told the court that Munetsi first targeted the girl, then 18, between August and December last year.
“The accused found the complainant home alone then asked if she had any issues that required him to help her on. He stood up, lifted the complainant and forcibly kissed her whilst caressing her private parts,” said Ncube.
Munetsi allegedly then ordered the teenager to fetch water and salt, prayed over them, and forced her to drink the mixture before warning her of spiritual attacks if she told anyone.
The abuse continued last month when Munetsi allegedly raped her.
“As the complainant opened the door, the accused grabbed her by the hand and dragged her to the spare room. The complainant tried to resist but the accused person spoke to her harshly, threatening her,” said Ncube.
The court heard that Munetsi placed a sponge on the floor and raped the victim, only stopping when she screamed in pain.
He then threatened to “turn her into a handicap” if she revealed what had happened.
For months, the teenager suffered in silence — until 11 September when her cousin noticed her withdrawn behaviour and urged her to open up. She finally shared her ordeal, leading to Munetsi’s arrest.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has urged victims of sexual abuse to speak out immediately, stressing that silence only protects predators.
“Workplace disputes, family conflicts, or religious differences must never justify violence. The law will protect those who come forward,” the NPAZ said in a statement.
This case serves as a painful reminder that sexual predators can hide behind respected titles. Victims are encouraged to report abuse to the police, trusted relatives, or organizations that provide counseling and support.
No one — no matter how powerful or “holy” — has the right to violate another person’s body or trust.
