After six years, rape victims break the silence: by Xolisile Dlou

Young men between the ages of 16 and 27 break the silence after they were victims of rape for six years. It is alleged that this young men suffered sexual abuse in the hands of a 44-year-old pastor, John Masilela from a Church in Sun City near KwaMhlanga.

It was reported that the pastor allegedly wanted protection as he was staying alone in the church premises. Daily Sun newspaper reported that about 15 of the victims have come forward to lay charges of sexual abuse.
Masilela appeared before the KwaMhlanga Regional Court on the 22nd of April. The accused faces charges of rape, sexual assault and transfer of pornography photos.

He pleaded not guilty to all charges against him and only admitted to engaging in sexual activities with male members claiming it was consensual. It is alleged that the acts happened in his church named Good Shepard Christian Centre.

Japhta Mabhena, Masilela’s lawyer said that the accused told the court that he had a sexual relationship with the boys. He added that their relationship turned sour when he got married in 2017 which he claimed is the reason they opened a case against him. The accused appeared for the second day of his trial on the 22nd and was expected to appear again on the 23rd of April.