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Chronicle Reporter

Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right that protects the conscience of all people. It allows one to think, express and act upon what we deeply believe.

However, around the world, this freedom is eroding. Churches, religious organizations and individuals face increasing restrictions as they participate in the public square, express their beliefs or serve in society.

For one Bulawayo man, Mr Enerst Ndlovu the above assertion has become a living reality, as not only has he been turned on by his family but he has been subject to ridicule by society.

So much has been the ridicule that his associates have since claimed that he has gone into hiding as he fears the continuous attacks, with his whereabouts not known.

Mr Ndlovu is said to have converted from the widely recognized religion in Zimbabwe, Christianity to the Islamic faith.

However, this was not met well with his family who not only attacked him but also targeted his properties.

“Enerst had been a Christian all along but recently he started reading on the Muslim faith, he eventually converted. He however did not inform his family until recently. When his family members heard this they immediately banished him and accused him of joining a terrorism associated religion.

“His brother, especially, Robert Ndlovu and aunt, Margret Tshili did not take his conversion lightly as they openly attacked him and also destroyed his property accusing him of being a terrorist,” said a family source.

Robert, a member of the Zanu-PF youth wing is said to have used his influence to get Ernest targeted which saw him at one point being arrested although no charge was laid.

A police source while confirming that they had received a report from Ernest on his attack by the family, they could however not intervene as this was viewed as a domestic matter.

“This is just a domestic matter and the only thing we can offer them at the moment is counselling,” said the police source.

Efforts to get a comment from Enerst were fruitless as his associates said he had since disappeared claiming he now feared for his life.