Disgraced Pastor Stephen Zondo awaits court ruling on rape charges dismissal bid! Disgraced pastor Stephen Zondo will return to the Pretoria High Court on Friday morning, where he is expected to hear whether the rape and sexual assault charges against him will be dismissed.
The controversial archbishop of the Rivers of Living Water Church has been battling serious allegations, with multiple women, including former congregants and staff members, accusing him of rape and sexual abuse.
Zondo’s Legal Battle to Have Charges Dismissed
In February, Zondo filed an application in court, requesting that the charges be thrown out, arguing that the case against him lacks merit.
One of the most shocking allegations includes claims that Zondo raped a seven-year-old girl in 1980. Despite the seriousness of the accusations, Zondo has denied all charges, maintaining that he is innocent and that the allegations are fabricated.
However, under South African law, a simple denial is not enough to secure a discharge from prosecution.
Legal Challenges in Zondo’s Case
The court’s decision on Friday will be based on Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act, which allows an accused to be discharged at the end of the prosecution’s case if there is no evidence linking them to the crime.
Zondo’s legal team now faces the challenge of proving that the state has failed to provide sufficient evidence to justify a trial continuation.
If his application is successful, Zondo will walk free without needing to present a defence.
However, if the judge rejects his bid, the case will proceed, and Zondo’s legal team will have to open their defence, calling witnesses to testify on his behalf.
The Serious Allegations Against Zondo
The rape and sexual assault allegations against Zondo have sent shockwaves through his church and the wider religious community.
Several victims have stepped forward, detailing incidents of abuse they claim took place over decades.
The accusations include:
- Sexual abuse of multiple women who were allegedly targeted while working at or attending his church.
- Rape of a seven-year-old girl in 1980, one of the most serious charges against him.
- Sexual manipulation and coercion, with some victims alleging that Zondo abused his position of power as a spiritual leader.
The trial has seen emotional testimonies from survivors, some of whom claim they were threatened or silenced to protect Zondo’s reputation.
What Happens Next?
If the court dismisses Zondo’s discharge application, his legal team will have to present a defence. This means:
- Zondo may be called to testify in his own defence.
- The defence team could bring in witnesses to challenge the credibility of the state’s case.
- Cross-examination of state witnesses may continue.
If the court rules that the state has enough evidence, the trial will proceed, potentially leading to a conviction or acquittal.
A Case That Has Divided Opinions
Zondo’s case has deeply polarized the public, with some supporters defending him, claiming he is a victim of false accusations, while others believe the victims’ testimonies should be taken seriously.
Many argue that justice must prevail, with women’s rights organizations calling for swift legal action to ensure survivors of sexual abuse are heard.
Final Decision Awaits
As Zondo awaits his fate, all eyes are on the Pretoria High Court, where the judge’s ruling will determine the next step in this high-profile case.
If his discharge application fails, Zondo will have to fight for his freedom in what could be a long and grueling legal battle.