NGOCC Urges Thorough Investigation into Alleged Rape Case Involving Lusaka Pastor
The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) is calling for a comprehensive investigation into a distressing incident involving a Lusaka Pastor accused of raping a 26-year-old congregant in her matrimonial home.
According to media reports, the victim sought prayers from the pastor after experiencing miscarriages, only to be allegedly assaulted during the encounter.
In a statement issued by Grace M. Sinkamba, the Chairperson of NGOCC, the organization condemned the alleged rape, describing it as a severe violation of human rights and an egregious assault on the woman’s dignity.
The women’s movement emphasized that rape is not only a crime but also the worst form of torture, demanding swift action against the accused pastor.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the alleged rape of the Lusaka woman by the Pastor,” stated Grace M. Sinkamba, the Chairperson of NGOCC.
The NGOCC is urging the Zambian government to closely scrutinize the operations of certain churches that appear to be operating outside the law.
The organization expressed concern about the incident occurring during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and emphasized the need for heightened vigilance within communities to prevent falling victim to potential abuse by religious leaders.
“We call upon the Ministry of Home Affairs to undertake a thorough investigation into the matter. If found wanting, the suspected Pastor should face the law, and the matter should be disposed of accordingly,” added Sinkamba.
NGOCC further urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to extend its investigation to the entire church institution, emphasizing that if any wrongdoing is discovered, it must be addressed within the framework of the law.
The NGOCC’s call for justice comes at a critical time when gender-based violence is in sharp focus, and the organization remains dedicated to championing the rights of women and combating any form of abuse.
The Zambian public and stakeholders are keenly awaiting the outcome of the investigation as the country grapples with the imperative of safeguarding individuals from harm, particularly within religious institutions.
