Evangelist convicted of abusing pregnant teen congregant

A 62-year-old apostolic sect evangelist from Makoni has been convicted of sexually abusing a pregnant 17-year-old congregant, in a case that has raised fresh concern over the exploitation of vulnerable individuals within religious settings.

Russia Muradzikwa appeared before Rusape provincial magistrate Tendai Mahwe facing a charge of having sexual intercourse with a young person. He pleaded not guilty and represented himself, but was convicted after the court found overwhelming evidence against him.

The case only came to light after the teenager gave birth. According to court proceedings, concerns were raised when the infant reportedly refused to breastfeed. Within the local community, this was interpreted by some as a possible sign of wrongdoing, prompting elders to question the young mother.

It was during this process that she disclosed the abuse, stating that Muradzikwa had coerced her into sexual activity while she was heavily pregnant.

Prosecutor Faith Mutukwa told the court that the accused had offered the teenager US$3 in exchange for sex, which she reluctantly accepted after initially refusing.

The court heard that the incident occurred in April 2023 when the complainant was on her way to a grinding mill. Muradzikwa allegedly called her over and propositioned her before the two proceeded to his home, where the abuse took place.

In sentencing, Magistrate Mahwe strongly condemned Muradzikwa's actions, describing them as an abuse of trust and authority. He imposed an 18-month sentence, suspending six months on condition of good behaviour over five years.

The remaining 12 months were set aside on condition that Muradzikwa completes 420 hours of community service at Chiduku Primary School.

The court noted that the non-custodial sentence was influenced by the convict's advanced age and reported ill health, but emphasised that the offence itself was serious and deeply troubling.