The Anglican Diocese of Natal has suspended a priest accused of sexually abusing minors at St Christopher’s Parish Church in Sobantu, Pietermaritzburg, and has opened a canonical investigation alongside the criminal process. The priest’s name has not been published because the allegations remain untested before the courts.
The Rt. Rev. Nkosinathi Ndwandwe said the diocese received a complaint from the family of an alleged victim on 2 Sept 2026 and immediately prohibited the priest from undertaking “any pastoral, liturgical, administrative or supervisory duties.” He was also directed not to contact the complainant, alleged victim, or potential witnesses.
The diocese said its inquiry will determine whether disciplinary action is warranted under church law, while stressing that its process will neither displace nor obstruct a police investigation. “Our internal investigation is separate from, and will not replace, delay or interfere with any criminal investigation,” Bishop Ndwandwe said.
The Witness reported on 6 Oct 2026 that a further sexual-assault complaint had been lodged at Mountain Rise police station after the family of a 17-year-old girl came forward. The newspaper reported that the number of police cases has not been confirmed, although local residents have alleged that several minors may have been affected.
The allegations prompted a protest at St Christopher’s Church, where residents called for the priest’s permanent removal. The diocesan dean, the Revd Thamsanqa Tembe, told those gathered that the priest had been suspended and that the church’s internal procedures were under way.
Bishop Nathi Zondi, spokesman for the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council, condemned the allegations while urging the public not to prejudge the case. “We cannot pass judgement on the priest because the matter is still under investigation,” he said.
The Diocese of Natal said it has contacted the Department of Social Development, will cooperate with the relevant state authorities, and has reported the case to the Anglican Safe and Inclusive Church Commission.
Bishop Ndwandwe said safeguarding responsibilities continue irrespective of the eventual outcome of a criminal trial: “Quite independently of any criminal trial, the church has to uphold its pastoral standards and protect its people.”
He added that abuse of pastoral authority, particularly involving women, children, and vulnerable people, is “a profound betrayal of that sacred trust” and incompatible with priestly ministry. The diocese said it will make further announcements after its internal investigation is completed.