Lentswe, Wolmaransstad - A member of the Uniting Reformed Church took the church and its pastor to court because she claims “injustice and oppression”. Kakanyo Sewedi lodged an objection in terms of church order against procedure followed to nominate deacons, an objection that was squarely ignored.
This prompted her to approach the Mahikeng High Court and after lengthy litigation, the court set aside the nomination of deacons for procedural irregularities. The Court further ordered Rev Mohakabe and URCSA Wolmaransstad to pay Sewedi’s legal costs.
Initially, both Rev Mohakabe and the congregation filed an appeal against the Judgment. This was removed from the roll and prompted further litigation between parties.
The court ordered the execution of more than R400 000, where the sheriff of Klerksdorp and Wolmaransstad must take assets of Rev Mohakabe and URCSA Wolmaransstad to cover the costs.
“This case affirms that the church order is not a mere guideline but binding document. However, there are still pending litigation and reserved judgement. Though innocent congrants may have to carry cost, they must hold Church Council and Rev Mohakabe accountable for their loss,” Sewedi said.
Lentswe contacted Rev Mohakabe and he said he is trying to reconcile with Sewedi.
He added that he is still scratching his head to find out why she would go to the court and the media. “I think she is trying to destroy the church,” he said.
