Controversial Prophet Muritho's rape case postponed again

The controversial Sibasa prophet, Phathutshedzo Sikhubu, popularly known as Prophet Muritho or Ritha, made another appearance in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court last Friday (29^th) on a charge of rape. The case was postponed to 6 September, and his bail of R1,000 was extended.

Sikhubu, who is also a businessman and the founder of the popular Faith of Talitha Koum Ministry in Sibasa, first appeared in the Thohoyandou court on 12 April this year. His appearance followed an alleged rape incident that took place at his house in Tswinga, just outside Thohoyandou. The incident is alleged to have taken place on Wednesday, 10 April, around 18:00.

The allegation is that the rape occurred during a braai at Prophet Muritho’s house, where friends and the complainant enjoyed drinks and meat. The girl allegedly asked to use the bathroom and Muritho took her to the main bedroom toilet, where he allegedly raped her.

During the latest brief court appearance, the case was postponed to 6 September for the Director of Public Prosecutions to make a decision. Sikhubu’s new legal representative had requested the date, saying her client would not be available on an earlier date. This left many to speculate that he might be away to appear in Cape Town, where Sikhubu apparently also faces a rape charge.

Unlike the previous appearances, where the court was filled to capacity by Sikhubu’s supporters, only a handful were in court. Also notable by their absence were the gender-activist groups who were a common sight during the previous appearances.

Date:05 July 2024

By: Elmon Tshikhudo

Elmon Tshikhudo started off as a photographer. He developed an interest in writing and started submitting articles to local as well as national publications. He became part of the Limpopo Mirror family in 2005 and was a permanent part of the news team until 2019. He currently writes on a freelance basis, covering human rights issues, court news and entertainment.

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