The Department of Health obtained an interdict against the so-called “Doom pastor,” Lethebo Rabalago, of Mount Zion Christian Assembly in Zebediela last Friday. Departmental Spokesperson Derick Kganyago said the content of the interdict had been communicated to the pastor and his congregation.
Lethebo Rabalago made headlines when images of him spraying individuals with the insecticide that were published on the church’s Facebook page surfaced in the media.
Congregants have reportedly defended his actions while the “prophet” reportedly alleges that he uses Doom to heal members of his congregation from different ailments.
Kganyago said it was dangerous to spray human beings with the insecticide. Manufacturers Tiger Brands Ltd in a statement issued by Group Communication and Stakeholder Relations Manager Nevashnee Naicker issued a statement saying that they found the practice “alarming and extremely concerning, and want to make it very clear that it is unsafe to spray Doom Super Multi Insect Killer, or any other aerosol for that matter, into people’s faces. Doom has been formulated to kill specific insects which are detailed on the cans, and the packaging has very clear instruction and health warnings for humans which must be adhered to. Using this product for purposes other than what it is intended for poses health risks and is therefore dangerous.”
The statement further read that it was unsafe to spray the insecticide on to people’s faces and that the product packaging has clear warnings which must be adhered to. It also warned that should Doom insect killer be sprayed into a person’s face it needed to be washed, including the eyes, and excessive inhalation be avoided.
Kganyago said the department wants Rabalago to be examined by a specialist to determine his mental health, and if he does not go voluntarily, might consider a court order to have him examined.
The South African Human Rights Commission has also announced that they are to investigate the “Doom prophet.”
Story: NELIE ERASMUS
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