Rape charge against Bishop Roxley Masevhe withdrawn

The case against popular Limpopo musician Bishop Roxley Masevhe, who has been charged with rape, has been withdrawn. The National Prosecuting Authority [NPA] confirmed this week.

Their confirmation follows messages circulating on social media since Friday last week, claiming that the charges had been withdrawn.

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Spokesperson Mashudu Malabi Dzhangi explained that the withdrawal does not mean the end of the case.

“As the NPA, we can confirm that the charges against Bishop Masevhe have been withdrawn due to some delays,” she told the Limpopo Mirror.

She says the court refused to postpone the case further while the State was waiting for a decision from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), resulting in the matter’s being struck off the roll.

“The case will still be submitted to the DPP for a decision. Should the DPP decide to prosecute, Dr Masevhe will be summoned to appear before the court,” she explained.

BISHOP ROXLEY MASEVHE RAPE CASE HAS BEEN WITHDRAWN BY THE THOHOYANDOU MAGISTRATE COURT

Dr Masevhe is accused of raping a 17-year-old girl. The ordeal is alleged to have started in January 2023 and lasted until she laid a charge against him in early January 2024. He was arrested on 8 January.

Masevhe spent a month in prison but was granted bail of R20 000 with stringent conditions by the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court in February.

Last week a note, presumably written by Dr. Masevhe, began circulating on social-media platforms. “By the grace of the Lord, be informed that the case of Bishop Dr. Roxley Fhatuwani Masevhe was struck off the roll by the courts of law on Friday, 26 July 2024. We thank you very much for your prayers and support. God is great. Jesus is too powerful. Be blessed. Dr. Roxley Masevhe.”

The note caused confusion in the community, with some questioning the effectiveness of the courts.