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A 55-year-old self-proclaimed prophet from the Chief Nyajina area of Uzumba has been brought before the Murewa Magistrates’ Court on charges of rape, following disturbing allegations that he exploited his spiritual authority to sexually assault a fellow congregant.
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the abuse of religious influence.
According to the State’s case, the accused, whose name has not been disclosed, allegedly preyed on the complainant, a member of his congregation, in May 2023.
He reportedly prophesied that the woman would face fertility issues and instructed her to visit his home for prayers. Two weeks later, the complainant complied, staying at the accused’s residence for three days.
On the third day, the accused allegedly instructed the woman to wake up at midnight for a prayer session.
During the session, he claimed that an “unknown object” in her womb could only be removed through sexual intercourse with him.
The State further alleges that the accused threatened the complainant with death if she refused to comply, before raping her.
The matter came to light on February 1, 2025, when the accused reportedly contacted the complainant’s husband, insisting that the woman return to his home to complete the prayers.
The complainant, however, confided in her husband, revealing that she had been raped by the accused during her previous visit. The husband immediately reported the incident to the police, leading to the arrest of the self-proclaimed prophet.
The accused appeared in the Murewa Magistrates’ Court on February 5, 2025, and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to return to court on February 17, 2025, for further proceedings.
The case has sparked outrage in the community, with many calling for stricter oversight of religious leaders to prevent the abuse of power.
Local authorities have urged victims of similar crimes to come forward, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
“This is a deeply troubling case that highlights the vulnerability of individuals who place their trust in religious leaders,” said a spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police. “We encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed such abuses to report them to the authorities.”
The incident has also reignited debates about the regulation of religious organizations in Zimbabwe, where self-proclaimed prophets and spiritual leaders often operate with little oversight. Advocacy groups have called for stronger legal frameworks to protect congregants from exploitation and abuse.
As the case unfolds, the Murewa Magistrates’ Court will be under intense scrutiny to ensure justice is served.
The outcome of this trial could set a precedent for how Zimbabwe addresses the growing issue of abuse within religious institutions.
The accused remains in custody pending his next court appearance on February 17, 2025.
Online Reporter