Zondo’s ex-congregants testify against him
Numerous former congregants have testified at the The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) against the Rivers of Living Waters’ Bishop Bafana Steven Zondo who they accuse of, sexual abuse, rape, hypnosis, fake prophecies and money laundering amongst other things.
The Rivers of Living Waters’ head offices are in Evaton. The former congregants who were witnesses at the commission included his former right hand men, a relative and his sister Khabonina Zondo.
Sello Poopedi, Andile Mali and Zondo’s sister Meisie Reanama were among those who testified at the commission in Braamfontein recently.
The common scenery during the testimony were outburst of tears, anger and frustration.
Former Zondo right-hand man Poopedi said that the church has more women than men because Zondo would sexually abuse them to gain power, and also use them as sacrifices.
The Chairperson of the commission, Professor David Mosoma, asked why the complaints (allegations) were only being made now, Poopedi replied that some of the victims have been opening cases of the rapes at the local police station, to no avail.
He added that to date there have never been any investigations or arrests made.
We hope coming here would be a relief to all victims and to put the record straight.
Poopedi said there’s those who are still scared of Zondo and will not be coming forward.
Zondo’s cousin, Meisie Reaname could not hold back her tears as she testified about an alleged rape she suffered at the hands of Zondo.
Former congregant, Andile Mali also testified how dangerous and brutal Zondo is.
All the allegations have also long been made on a radio programme hosted by Bochie “Mabochobocho” Pitso.
He’s a murderer and a rapist, he has raped a lot of children in the church. When he prays for you, you’ll wake up naked and he will make it seem like it’s your fault,” Khabonina Zondo, the Bishop’s sister testified. Commission chairperson Luka David Mosoma said Zondo had been notified about the hearings and would be given an opportunity to appeal before it to respond to the allegations at a later stage.
A statement released by the church Attorney, Jeffrey Rahlagane, denied the allegations made by the alleged victims. He said that these sensationalized claims are factually incorrect.
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