Bishop Bafana Zondo, the controversial and man-of-the-cloth accused of rape, says he is grateful to his ardent supporters who consistently turn up in court for his appearances.
The clergyman said this in the Pretoria High Court corridors while speaking to the media recently.
Zondo, the founder of Rivers of Living Waters in Evaton, a township north of Sebokeng in the Emfuleni local municipality, is facing numerous charges, including rape, indecent assault, and defeating the ends of justice.
I am grateful for the support
He expressed gratitude for having a church that has supported him through good and bad times.
“The problem about being a pastor is that you stand with a person as they battle with tokoloshis [a dwarf-like water spirits] and Satan, but the day you face the same Satan, that person will leave you all alone,” Zondo said as his supporters, who were dressed in blue and red, shouted “amen”.
“I thank God for the Rivers church.”
He further said that he understands that God does not solve some problems for his benefit.
Jesus’ disciples deserted him
“We all have to go through certain things, not for ourselves but for the next generation that is coming after you.
“Sometimes, God will allow you to get into a burning furnace to make a case study for another generation.”
Zondo said that when a person loves God, there are certain things that will come their way.
“Remember, when Jesus was tested, his own disciples deserted him, so you do not have to have anger or animosity even when people accuse you; it has to happen for your own good.
“If God allows certain things to happen in your life, you must always give glory to him.”
Respected and influential individual
Professor Gerard Labuschagne, a clinical psychologist and former police officer, stated in court that he comprehends the victims’ delay in reporting the cases because Zondo is a well-respected and influential individual.
“Based on the interviews I had with the complainants on the case, some feared that they would be rejected by the congregants if they had come forward about the sexual abuse that they allegedly suffered at the hands of the accused,” he said.
The case has been rescheduled for Wednesday so that Labuschagne’s cross-examination can begin.
