Anger as pastor granted bail

The Calcutta Magistrate’s Court in Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga, yesterday granted bail of R10 000 to a local pastor accused of rape.

The pastor, Abednigo Mongo, 28, who was arrested earlier this month, faces two counts of rape and one of assault. He allegedly raped a 15-year-old girl who was a member of his church, the Prophetic Ministry of the Nations in Tshabalala near Hazyview.

His release on bail sparked anger amongst Mkhuhlu community members, who clashed with his supporters outside the court. Police sprayed teargas to disperse the protesters.

Magistrate Tsakani Usinga imposed strict bail conditions, including banning the pastor from living in the Mkhuhlu area. He will, however, be allowed to attend his church once a week.

“For the sake of the demands of the community in their shock and worry, Mongo must return to his family home in Welverdiend. He cannot be seen in the areas of Mkhuhlu except for Sundays when he comes for his church sermons,” said the magistrate.

The father of the alleged rape victim said he was unhappy about the pastor’s release, but respected the court’s ruling. “There is nothing I can do about what the court has decided and I should not forget that the pastor has rights to apply and get bail because he, too, is a South African citizen.”

One Mkhuhlu resident said the community would approach the local traditional council to ensure the pastor adhered to his bail conditions.

The case was postponed to November 15. – ANA