The South African Church Defenders (SACD) has lodged a formal grievance with MultiChoice, the parent company of Moja Love, insisting that the programme ‘Fake Pastors’, hosted by gender-based violence activist Sihle Sibisi, is taken off the airwaves. They argue that the series, while intended to reveal malpractice, has instead brought the entire institution of the church into disrepute.
The SACD, which pledges to represent the body of Christ without compromise, contends that the show has overstepped the boundaries of investigative journalism. In a strongly worded letter to MultiChoice executives, the organisation outlined its position, stating that the programme has caused profound damage to the public perception of faith.
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Church Group Demands Cancellation Of Fake Pastors Show
The SACD acknowledges the need to address misconduct but believes ‘Fake Pastors’ has become an instrument of humiliation rather than a tool for justice. They accuse the production of violating the dignity of both individuals and the wider religious community. The organisation’s spokesperson, Rector Ngobeni, was careful to frame their complaint not as an angry reaction but as a principled stand.
“The said programme, while purporting to ‘expose fake pastors’, has systematically portrayed Christianity and the pastoral office in a manner that is defamatory, prejudicial, and ethnically reprehensible,” the SACD stated in its official communiqué. They further argued that the show has “crossed into the realm of public persecution of the faith.” Ngobeni confirmed that should their concerns be ignored, the matter will be taken to the highest broadcasting authority, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa).
“We Don’t Go Out Looking For Rotten Churches,” Says Unapologetic Host
Sihle Sibisi, the presenter at the centre of the storm, is a seasoned campaigner against hypocrisy within religious circles. She was a key voice in the BBC documentary that investigated serious allegations against the late Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua. She has spoken openly about spending over a decade, from the age of 17, in what she describes as a cult, enduring sexual assault and various forms of abuse. Now, she is standing her ground against the SACD’s complaints.
In a fiery defence of her programme, Sibisi expressed disappointment at what she sees as a misinterpretation of its mission. She told reporters,
“It is so sad that people are reactionary. They do not take the time to actually watch and see what the show is about.”
She firmly believes her work deserves praise, not condemnation, and that the show serves a higher purpose of healing.
“Fake Pastors does not go against the church. It is a show about bringing forth restoration and rehabilitation to people harmed by the church,” she explained.
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Addressing the criticism of her direct and confrontational interviewing technique, Sibisi remained defiant. She argued that her approach is only perceived as aggressive by those with something to conceal.
“You cannot say my approach is aggressive if you are innocent and have nothing to hide. If you have done no wrong, why would you be afraid?” she questioned.
She reiterated that the show operates on tip-offs from the public, followed by rigorous investigation.
“We don’t go out looking for rotten churches. It’s the people who write to Moja Love about what goes on at the churches. And investigators do their research before we approach anyone,” she adds.