PARI psychologist sexually abused us: Mentally ill patients newsdzeZimbabweNewsdzeZimbabwe

A trainee clinical psychologist accused of sexually abusing mentally ill patients is back at work at Parirenyatwa Hospital.

Newsday reports that the intern, identified as Lesley Machokoto, allegedly lured patients to a practice after hours and allegedly had sexual intercourse with them. He was fired but successfully appealed the decision.

In a letter dated December 14, 2023, the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals wrote to the Allied Health Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe, alerting the organization to various misconducts by Machokoto, including sexual intercourse with patients, usurpation of authority and breach of confidentiality rules, to name a few.

The letter states: “This letter is to inform you that the Department of Psychology, Parirenyatwa Psychiatric Unit has noted with concern allegations of misconduct against Mr Leslie Machokoto, currently employed as a Clinical Psychologist in Parirenyatwa Psychiatric Unit. The Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals is currently investigating the matter as procedurally required. The allegations have been made public by attachés and interns of the same institution as well as some patients.”

Machokoto said, “This is news to me. I cannot comment on this as I am employed at the hospital. Call me in an hour.”