From Hero to Zero: The Unforgivable Crime of Child Abuse

By Ilyana Sithole

The disturbing viral video of Noel Muzenda brutally assaulting his 10-year-old son, Frank, has left our nation reeling. A man who once wore the badge of honor as a police officer, sworn to protect and serve, has been exposed as a monster in his own home. The irony is staggering – a hero turned zero.

As a father, Muzenda’s actions are unforgivable. What values of fatherhood is he instilling in Frank? That violence is an acceptable solution? That fear and pain are tools for discipline? By using bricks, wire, and electric cables to inflict harm, Muzenda is creating a ticking time bomb, a child who may grow up to perpetuate the same cycle of violence.

Fatherhood should embody values of protection, guidance, and love. It is a role that carries immense responsibility, shaping not only the character of the child but also their understanding of relationships and conflict resolution. By inflicting such violence, Muzenda is not merely betraying his son; he is instilling a legacy of pain and fear. What kind of man uses his strength to dominate and terrorize his own child? This act is not just a moment of rage; it represents a deep-seated failure in understanding the essence of fatherhood.

As we advocate for the end of physical abuse, we must confront the uncomfortable reality that violence often perpetuates itself. Children who witness or experience abuse are at a higher risk of becoming perpetrators or victims in the future. By assaulting Frank in such a brutal manner, Muzenda is, in essence, creating a monster. He is teaching his son that violence is an acceptable means of expressing anger and resolving disputes. This is a terrifying cycle that can echo through generations, with repercussions far beyond the immediate trauma.

A father’s role is to protect, nurture, and guide. Muzenda’s actions are the antithesis of fatherhood. How can a child feel safe when the person entrusted with their care is the one inflicting harm? The emotional scars Frank will carry for life are immeasurable. We must ask ourselves: what kind of society allows this to happen? What kind of justice system fails to hold perpetrators accountable?

Muzenda’s case is a wake-up call. We need systemic change, starting with education and community engagement. We must teach alternative discipline methods, promote emotional intelligence, and provide support for vulnerable families. Our children deserve better. Frank deserves better.

Furthermore, the fact that Muzenda was a police officer raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of our law enforcement agencies in addressing child abuse. How can we trust those sworn to protect us when they fail to protect their own? It’s time for a thorough investigation and accountability.

It is crucial to examine the underlying factors that lead to such extreme behavior. While societal pressures, mental health issues, and personal trauma may contribute to an individual’s propensity for violence, they do not excuse it. A father’s role should be one of a protector, yet Muzenda’s actions reveal a profound disconnection from this responsibility. As a former police officer, he should have been acutely aware of the consequences of his actions—not just legally, but morally and ethically.

As a community, we must not turn a blind eye to such incidents. The outcry surrounding this video reflects a collective indignation that must be translated into action. We need to support initiatives that promote healthy relationships and non-violent conflict resolution. Education and awareness programs can help dismantle the toxic norms that perpetuate violence within families.

Furthermore, this incident calls for stronger measures to protect vulnerable children. It is essential for authorities to step in and ensure that Frank, and others like him, receive the help they need. Removal from a violent environment, counseling, and rehabilitation are critical to breaking the cycle of abuse.

Noel Muzenda’s descent from police officer to abuser is a stark reminder of how easily one can slip from a position of authority to one of infamy. It emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue about fatherhood, responsibility, and the consequences of violence. As we continue to advocate for the end of physical abuse, let us also reflect on the values we impart to the next generation. We must strive to create a world where children grow up safe, loved, and free from the shadow of violence.