Outrage over 'sex pest' pastor

WOMEN'S rights activists say silence is not an option after a pastor - described as a “sex pest” - allegedly made unwelcome sexual advances toward a 26-year-old volunteer with the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM), under the auspices of the Office of the Premier.

- SANDI KWON HOO

A criminal case was opened against the reverend, who is employed at the Office of the Premier and affiliated with the MRM, on April 5.

Activist organisations and a whistle-blower, who allegedly received death threats after questioning why the clergyman was being protected, claim there are efforts to suppress the disturbing allegations.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Molefi Shemane confirmed this week that the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit is investigating a case in which a 26-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man known to her between 2023 and 2024.

“No arrests have been made. The investigation continues,” Shemane said.

According to the complainant, the reverend groomed her over time in an attempt to initiate a sexual relationship.

She said he was seen as a father figure among the young women recruited in her group.

“He said he would pray for us and offered his support. We were misled into believing we could trust him as our Father in Christ. He would collect us and take us on youth outreaches, including programmes for victims of sexual abuse in Barkly West and Upington,” she explained.

She added that he had expressed concern about guarding his reputation as a religious leader.

“I have chosen to speak out against a person of influence because I know I am also speaking on behalf of others. I refuse to remain a victim.”

She further claimed that, after reporting the incident, concerted efforts were made to shield the alleged perpetrator.