Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A 40-YEAR-OLD biology teacher from Founders High School in Bulawayo has appeared in court for allegedly raping a 17-year-old Form Six boarding pupil at the institution.
Obey Rwatiringa from Barham Green, appeared before magistrate Mark Dzira, who remanded him in custody to 4 March or trial. He was not asked to plead.
Rwatiringa is being represented by Tinashe Runganga of Tanaka Law Chambers.
Prosecutor Hazel Ncube told the court that on an unknown date in February 2026, the accused allegedly sent the complainant to buy a pie.
After that encounter, the accused allegedly proposed love to the minor. The complainant reported the incident to the school’s guidance and counselling teacher, Memory Ndumo.
The court heard that on 21 February, Rwatiringa allegedly summoned the complainant to the science laboratory at around 11AM under the pretext of extra lessons.
After the lesson, it is alleged that the accused grabbed the complainant by her left hand, removed her panties, lifted her and placed her on a chair. Despite screaming and attempting to resist, the complainant was allegedly overpowered.
Further, Rwatiringa allegedly forcibly had sex with the complainant once, without her consent and without using protection.
The complainant reported the matter leading to Rwatiringa’s arrest.
