Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A 25-YEAR-OLD herdsman from Binga has appeared in court facing disturbing allegations of raping a 14-year-old girl in a remote bushy area of Tsholotsho — then threatening to kill her if she spoke out.
Matthew Munsaka, who was employed to look after cattle at Manjemi Line in Tsholotsho, was remanded in custody when he appeared before Bulawayo regional magistrate Sibonginkosi Mnkandla last Friday. He will face trial on July 24.
According to prosecutor Nomthandazo Mafu, the incident happened on April 19 at around 2PM.
“The complainant was herding her family’s goats when the accused emerged from the shrubs, grabbed her hands, pulled her to the ground and raped her,” said Mafu.
After the brutal assault, Munsaka allegedly warned the minor that he would kill her if she dared to tell anyone. He then vanished into the bush.
But the brave teen later confided in her mother. A police report was filed, and Munsaka was arrested two days later.
In court, Munsaka denied the rape, insisting the girl had been manipulated by her father who, he claimed, wanted to take over his herding job.
“The family was always hostile. They’ve been planning to get rid of me,” Munsaka said in his defence.
The case continues.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
At B-Metro, we report on stories of sexual and domestic abuse not to shock, but to shine a light on crimes that are too often hidden or ignored. We believe that by telling these stories, we empower survivors to speak out, seek justice and help break the silence around abuse in our communities. If you or someone you know is a victim, speak up. Help is available.
derick.khumalo