Amid claims that a husband of a local traditional healer is responsible for the rape of a 17-year-old, a group of concerned healers is calling for to the law to take its course against the suspect.
On Friday 15 September, the healers joined a march to the Harare Police Station and later, a picket outside the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ Court.
They are worried that the man’s conduct will tarnish their practice.
According to reports, the youth was raped by a sangoma’s husband in Harare on Sunday 3 September while the wife was in the Eastern Cape.
This, the healers say, has the potential to bring the practice into disrepute.
Speaking on behalf of the healers, outside Harare Police Station, Gogo Ntabazolwandle stated that they attended the march in support of the victim’s mother.
She said they know her well and are embarrassed by the incident. She said it tainted their name.
“What is disgusting is that the incident occurred at the same place where she works. When Bulelwa’s (the victim’s mother) traditional healer heard about the incident she didn’t take any action to show remorse.
“The incident occurred on Sunday night (3 September) and she (Bulelwa’s traditional healer) arrived on Monday 4 September and heard about the news the following day but she didn’t take any action.
“We believe she is also an accomplice,” said Ntabazolwandle, appealing for the rearrest of the suspect.
She also called for the woman to stop practising as a sangoma, describing the woman as a threat to the community.
Ntabazolwandle vowed to support the victim and her mother. It is believed she was raped because of her sexual orientation.
Harare Police Station spokesperson Sgt Nosiphiwo Mntengwana confirmed that a rape case was opened. She emphasised that the investigation is still ongoing.
“According to the investigating officer, there are things they must investigate, that is why the suspect has been released. Otherwise, the case is not closed and is continuing,” said Mntengwana.