‘Doom Pastor’ fears for his life following social media outcry
Controversial pastor, Lethebo Rabalago has fled his home allegedly fearing for his life.
LIMPOPO -Rabalago, who sprung to controversy after spraying the insect repellent Doom onto sick congregants claiming to heal them, has allegedly been squatting with friends and relatives, including his wife’s homestead in Ga-Mathibela, a stone’s throw from Lebowakgomo.
Following an outcry on social media about the Doom spraying ritual, Rabalago has not slept at home. Last week, Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba vowed to approach the court for consent to have Rabalago sent for mental evaluation.
“My concern and that of others is that his practice, which he believes is of noble and good intentions, puts the lives of others in danger. We are concerned that the pastor’s practices may be fatal for humans and that if signs are not visible now, they may be visible later,” she said.
A relative, who spoke to CV on condition of anonimity, offered to take CV to Rabalago’s homestead to prove he has eloped.
During a visit to his village last Wednesday and Thursday, there was no sign of him.
Neighbours claim the man is sometimes seen during the day. Rabalago’s mother, Everista confirmed he was not home and she doesn’t know anything about his whereabouts.
“I don’t know where my son is and I do not want anything to do with him, his claims or his church,” she said.
Earlier last Wednesday, Rabalago said he was ordered by a senior pastor not to discuss the “Doom Fiasco” story.
CV managed to get hold of the pastor
“I have realised that since I have used Doom to assist my people, I have created more enemies than friends. Even some of the pastors have already perceived me as a Satanist. I will therefore not say anything as I know some people harbour malicious intentions endeavoured at denting my image. Lets speak after the dust has settled,” said Rabalago.
South African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) leader Kenneth Meshoe condemned the practices by the pastor in the strongest possible, describing it as “evil”.
According to police, Rabalago was free to go as he pleases until proven otherwise by authorities. No official complaint has been made, Spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe told CV.
The doom spraying ritual has sparked nationwide outcry.
Last week, the CRL Commission said a meeting between Rabalago and the commission would be held.
CRL Commissioner, Edward Mafadza called on people who had problems with the pastor’s practices to come forward. Mafadza said it was difficult to take action against the pastor as people go the church willingly for assistance.
Meanwhile, the company that produces Doom, Tiger Brand harshly condemned the practice by the pastor.
The company said Doom has been formulated to kill insects and that using it for other purposes other than what it was intended for was very dangerous.
Rabalago is the latest religious leader to use unconventional methods to heal people. Others who came before used petrol, rats, snakes and forced people to eat grass in order to be healed.
“We will not hesitate to put Rabalago behind bars if a criminal case against him is been laid. But until such time, Rabalago is a free man,” said Ngoepe.
Read more:
“Doom” prophet says he was chosen before birth
‘Do not spay Doom onto people’s faces’ – Tiger Brands
