Sex-crazed overseer dismissed from Zaoga

A senior overseer of the ZAOGA FIF church, Joel Chinhema, has been dismissed from his post in Bindura following serious allegations of adultery, embezzlement of church funds, and sexual misconduct. Chinhema, who held a leadership role within the church, was relieved of his duties last week by the church's board of bishops, which acts as a disciplinary committee.

The 10-member board, made up of senior bishops, is responsible for overseeing matters of discipline within the church, headquartered in Waterfalls, Harare. The decision to dismiss Chinhema followed his admission to having engaged in extramarital affairs with two female congregants, which led to the birth of two children.

Sources within the church revealed that Chinhema confessed to the illicit relationships and was subsequently asked to step down from his position. "It's disheartening that a man who many looked up to as a father figure failed to lead an exemplary life," one source said. "Baba Chinhema has been dismissed after admitting to impregnating two women from the church."

In addition to the charges of adultery, Chinhema is facing accusations of embezzling church funds. He is also alleged to have neglected his children and preyed on vulnerable women, including widows and young girls who sought his counsel. Church officials have reported that a woman came forward, claiming Chinhema had sexually harassed her by sending nude photos in an attempt to entice her into a sexual relationship.

Chinhema has also been accused of exploiting his position to manipulate divorced women and those in need of spiritual guidance, using his authority to coerce them into inappropriate situations.

"The church also received complaints about his treatment of women, including one report from a single lady who claimed she was being sexually harassed," the source added.

As part of the dismissal, Chinhema has been ordered to vacate church property in Bindura and relinquish the vehicle he was using, a GD6. He is also facing scrutiny for allegedly receiving protection from certain church leaders, who are believed to have covered up his actions from the time he was a junior pastor until his promotion to overseer.

Efforts to reach the church's leadership for comment were unsuccessful. Church secretary-general Apostle Mishael Nyambo referred inquiries to his deputy, Apostle Steve Simukai, whose phone went unanswered. Chinhema also declined to comment on the matter.

The ZAOGA FIF church, which has expanded to over 160 nations, has faced a significant scandal with this incident, raising questions about the conduct and accountability of its leaders.