Bishop Locks Disabled Son In A Room For Two Years
Village Head, Stephany Nemaramba who is Namatai’s brother, said they thought Joseph was either d£ad or staying with his siblings in Harare.
He said as a family, they are yet to come to terms with the way in which Namatai treated his son.
“Over the years, when we asked some of the church pastors why they were not conducting prayers for Joseph, they professed ignorance over the issue. This is despite having endless prayer sessions at the homestead.
‘‘The room in which Joseph was kept captive was always locked,” said Village Head Nemaramba.
The ZSCC sect members also expressed shock at their bishop’s stone-heartedness and offered support and prayers for Joseph’s recovery.
A pastor, Mr Edwin Mukuche said it was shocking that their leader had locked up Joseph inside the house for two years.
“Joseph is recovering well. His condition could have been much better if he had been exposed to proper medical care early.
‘‘It is disheartening to know that someone that we respected and acted as our spiritual father would abuse his own child like this.
“He is not worth being a leader and should step down from the bishop’s position. It is clear that he was using his son for rituals to increase his flock. We feel cheated and betrayed,” said Mr Mukuche.
The matter was reported to the police who referred Joseph to Mutambara Mission Hospital.
However, Namatai has not been arr£sted.
Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Norbert Muzondo said they are yet to receive the report.
Acting Chief Saurombe adjourned the matter to this Sunday. -Manica Post-
