Sodomy of young boys allegations scandals rock Ang...

Sodomy of young boys allegations scandals rock Anglican and Roman Catholic Churches in Zimbabwe

Zim Now Reporter

Allegations of sexual abuse against boys spanning decades by high profile church leaders are shaking the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches in Zimbabwe.

Both John Smyth and Brian Porter, the men at the centre of the allegations are now deceased.

In the Anglican Church, the legacy of John Smyth a lay minister accused of abusing at least 85 boys across various countries including South Africa and Zimbabwe, has resurfaced.

Investigations reveal that Smyth, who lived in Zimbabwe from 1984 to 2001, continued his abusive practices afterbeing found guilty of abusing minor boys with vicious beatings in the UK two years before his move to Zimbabwe.

The family of a boy who was found dead and naked in a swimming pool during a holiday camp run by Smyth have alleged that abuse by Smyth led to the death of the boy.

Despite calls for a comprehensive inquiry into his actions in Zimbabwe and South Africa, church authorities initially claimed there was no evidence of misconduct.

However, the recent Makin Review has brought to light systematic cover-ups, sparking outrage and prompting local clergy to re-examine Smyth’s time in the region.

Meanwhile, the Roman Catholic Church in Zimbabwe is also dealing with similar allegations against the late Father Brian Porter, a Jesuit priest at St Ignatius College.

Former students claim Porter targeted Form One boys in the 1970s, engaging in sodomy and other forms of abuse.

A group of victims has formed the Justice, Healing, and Closure initiative, seeking accountability and redress.

The college has begun listening sessions and established a desk to handle the allegations.

However, the process has been criticized for delays and a lack of formal complaints.

The two churches are among the biggest and richest religious institutions in the country owning valuable properties.

Since their establishments in the colonial period, both churches have opened and operated many mission schools staffed by priest across the country, giving rise to fears that more abuse allegations could be waiting to be uncovered.