Pastor collapses after sentence
Posted: Mon Nov 24, 2025 7:56 pm
https://www.times.co.sz/news/readmore.p ... hdgsj=News
MBABANE - Pastor Bongi Phiri yesterday collapsed inside the dock after being sentenced to five years imprisonment without an option of a fine for indecently dealing with an 11-year-old pupil.
Phiri, who leads the Baptist Ministries, collapsed immediately after his rights to appeal were explained to him, after sentencing.
Prior to collapsing, the man of God, who had been in a prayer position after the pronouncement of the sentence, stood up and suddenly fell, shocking everyone present in court.
Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi directed that paramedics be called if necessary. A court orderly promptly made calls while warders administered first aid by fanning the pastor with their caps.
Some of those present in court to offer Phiri moral support were already screaming. Phiri was then removed from the dock and taken to the holding cells while awaiting the arrival of paramedics.