WATCH: Demonstrators gather as rape-accused pastor appears in court
Two groups are demonstrating in support of and against a pastor, who's appearing in a court in Ntuzuma, over allegations he raped young girls from his church.
The pastor was arrested on Friday after a congregant reported an alleged rape she claims took place three years ago.
Other girls have also opened cases against the 35-year-old man.
The pastor is expected to apply for bail today.
Demonstrators, in support of and against a pastor, who's appearing in the #Ntuzuma Magistrates Court over #rape allegations, have gathered outside court.
— ECR_Newswatch (@ECR_Newswatch) November 22, 2018
Video -@nushera pic.twitter.com/aQbuqQdIrP
Members of his church say they believe he's innocent - asking why the accusations are only being made now.
"We came to support our pastor. Our pastor is innocent. Why are they're only opening the case now for a 2015 incident?" one congregant said.
Another group of protesters wants him to be denied bail.
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"I am here to get justice for those very innocent children who are supposed to be loved, cared for and protected," one demonstrator said.
#KZNChurchRape These are supporters of the pastor who have come out at the entrance to the court. He is meant to appear for a formal bail application today. @ECR_Newswatch pic.twitter.com/aOhCC6uaQQ
— Nushera Raisa (@nushera) November 22, 2018
#KZNChurchRape The women say they are in disbelief over the amount of supporters who have come out for the pastor accused of rape. @ECR_Newswatch pic.twitter.com/QYam9ftF4m
— Nushera Raisa (@nushera) November 22, 2018
#KZNChurchRape It is believed that the first victim in the case came forward earlier this month. She was followed by three other congregants who claim to have been raped by the pastor. @ECR_Newswatch pic.twitter.com/xgEPdHmx8r
— Nushera Raisa (@nushera) November 22, 2018
