Seeking Justice: The Ongoing Struggle of John Smyth’s Victims in Zimbabwe
Judith Nyachuru, sister of abuse victim Guide Nyachuru, calls for accountability regarding John Smyth, whose actions devastated families in Zimbabwe. Despite recommendations for investigation from the Makin Report, progress remains stalled, raising concerns over potential cover-ups. Victims like Jason Leanders continue to suffer from trauma, necessitating urgent action from the Church of England and support for survivors.
Judith Nyachuru, sister of Guide Nyachuru, a victim of serial abuser John Smyth in Zimbabwe, expressed her pain, stating, “He hurt us… what he did was grossly unfair. May his spirit burn in hell!” After Guide’s tragic death in 1992 at a holiday camp, the Nyachuru family has sought closure. They were hopeful when the Makin Report, released in November, recommended an investigation into Smyth’s actions, yet, significant progress remains unmade.
Douglas Coltart, a lawyer involved in the early investigations of Smyth, also conveyed his frustrations, noting, “I am not aware of anything” concerning the recommended investigations in Zimbabwe. The Church of England has yet to respond to inquires related to these matters, creating concern among victims and their families, who fear potential cover-ups. Rebekah Read of Leigh Day Solicitors criticized the Church’s history of inaction since the allegations surfaced as early as 1982, accusing it of failing to protect survivors from Smyth’s ongoing abuses.
Victim Jason Leanders explained that many former victims struggle with severe trauma, making discussions difficult. Coltart noted that victims possibly continue suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), highlighting the Church’s responsibility to provide necessary medical care. Past efforts to address the abuses were resisted as Smyth received support from influential church leaders and officials, contributing to a culture of silence around the abuses.
Smyth was banned from the UK after revelations of his horrific abuse, yet he relocated to Zimbabwe in 1984, where he established Zambezi Ministries. His camps targeted elite schools, perpetuating his abusive methods until complaints prompted some scrutiny in 1993. Despite investigations, Smyth leveraged his connections to evade consequences, only ceasing abusive practices when confronted by Coltart’s findings.
Ultimately, Smyth escaped prosecution for years and lived temporarily in Zimbabwe until returning to South Africa, where he passed away in 2018, eluding any accountability. Following the Makin Report, the Anglican Church of South Africa initiated a commission to evaluate the Church of England’s past oversights in protecting youth, although this probe faced skepticism due to alleged cover-up attempts. As stated by Leanders, “Smyth was protected in England and he was protected in Zimbabwe,” emphasizing the long-standing issue of victimized individuals lacking the opportunity to address their abuser directly.
The plight of John Smyth’s victims in Zimbabwe highlights historical negligence on the part of the Church, raising urgent calls for accountability and healing. While the Makin Report has led to renewed discussions, the lack of substantive action remains troubling for the affected families. It is vital for the Church to prioritize investigations, address past failures, and ensure support for victims with ongoing trauma.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
