SEBOKENG – Outraged community members filled the Sebokeng Regional Court on March 10. This as a 34-year old pastor appeared in court for a formal bail application. He is accused of raping a 14-year-old congregant.

The accused was arrested on March 2 at his home. It is said that on several occasions between August 2024 and January 2025, the pastor would allegedly rape the girl during prayer sessions while her mother waited outside.

Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Lumka Mahanjana said the abuse came to light after the victim developed infections and confided in her sister, who informed their parents.

“The NPA remains dedicated to pursuing justice for victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and ensuring accountability for such crimes.”

Various organisations picketed including the Department of Community Safety’s GBVF Brigades, People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) the ANC youth and women’s leagues. The activists sang songs expressing their disappointment at the alleged actions of the accused pastor.

During his bail application, the accused made a staggering allegation, stating that he and the victim had been in a relationship.

Speaking to Ster North, the father of the young victim said he was shocked and equally disgusted by what the pastor had done to his child.

“We are members of the same church and to hear him say that he was in a relationship with my daughter is disgusting.”

GBV Brigade Mamorena Sigo said they are happy that the accused remains in custody.

“We have been on this journey since the beginning of the case. All we want is to see justice being served. If the suspect is found guilty, we want to see him go to jail.”

The matter has has been postponed to March 26 to continue the bail application.  The accused remains in custody.