Founders High teacher jailed 20 years for raping pupil

A BULAWAYO teacher who raped a 17-year-old learner has been sentenced to an effective 20 years in prison.

Obed Rwatiringa, a biology teacher at Founders High School who lives in Barham Green suburb, was convicted of rape by Bulawayo regional magistrate Mr Lungile Ncube.

In passing sentence, the magistrate said there was overwhelming evidence linking Rwatiringa to the offence.

“The victim articulated sequentially how she was sexually violated. During cross-examination, she told the court that the offender pushed her onto a chair and sexually attacked her,” said Mr Ncube.

The magistrate noted that although Rwatiringa’s lawyer, Mr Tinashe Runganga, disputed the rape, the court was satisfied that the offence had indeed occurred.

“Upon seeing the chair, which is of a minimal size, the court was convinced that the complainant was pushed onto it before she was raped,” said the magistrate.

Mr Ncube said the testimony of the school’s guidance and counselling teacher corroborated the victim’s account.

“Moreover, the guidance and counselling teacher’s testimony corroborated the victim’s evidence, making it more believable. The State proved its case beyond any shadow of doubt,” he said.

In aggravation, prosecutor Mr Sehliselo Khumalo said there was a need to send a strong message to would-be offenders.

“The parents entrusted the teacher with their child and believed that he would guide and parent the child. However, the same teacher turned into a monster and sexually violated the child,” he said.

“He betrayed the trust bestowed on him and his unbecoming behaviour may cause other parents and learners to lose trust in male teachers.”

Prosecuting, Mr Khumalo said earlier last month Rwatiringa sent the complainant to buy pies before proposing a romantic relationship to her.

The girl reported the matter to the school’s guidance and counselling teacher.

On February 21, shortly after 1PM, Rwatiringa summoned the complainant for extra lessons in the science laboratory.

“After the lesson, he grabbed the complainant’s left hand and forced her onto a chair,” said Mr Khumalo.

The court heard that the girl screamed and tried to resist, but Rwatiringa overpowered her before raping her.

The matter was reported to the police, leading to Rwatiringa’s arrest. The complainant was later referred to hospital for a medical examination.