Legal professional Joshua Chirambwe has categorically denied accusations of sexual harassment made by his colleague, Fadzayi Mahere. Chirambwe, who describes himself as blissfully married, dismissed the allegations, asserting he has no interest in forming any form of companionship with the former legislator.
The Allegations
Mahere recently lodged a complaint with the Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ), claiming that Chirambwe had posted inappropriate messages in a WhatsApp group called “Zim Advocates,” which both are members of. The messages, described by Mahere as “lustful,” included statements such as:
“You see, there is this woman I adore beyond words—let us say I am rather fond of Fadzi.”
“There is another lady in this group, whose elegance could give royalty a run for their money. Her character? Sweet enough to make sugar, but how can I approach them?”
ALSO READ:Â White Afrikaans Group Sparks US-South Africa Tensions Over Land Seizure Claims
Chirambwe’s Response
In a detailed four-page letter to the LSZ, Chirambwe strongly rebuffed the claims and questioned why Mahere did not approach him directly. He highlighted their professional proximity, as they share the same office building, parking lot, and elevator.
“I am blissfully united in matrimony with my dearest wife, Mukudzei, a woman of exceptional achievements and grace,” wrote Chirambwe. “She exemplifies excellence in her career while also dedicating herself to raising our two children, Beyonce and Chloe.”
Professional Courtesy Questioned
Chirambwe argued that Mahere’s decision to involve the LSZ without addressing her concerns with him personally was perplexing. “Given our shared environment and frequent cordial exchanges, professional courtesy would have dictated that she raise her concerns directly with me before escalating the matter,” he stated.
Allegations Called Baseless
Referring to himself as the “Prophet Advocate,” Chirambwe dismissed the allegations as fictitious, comparing them to “ghost stories.” He wrote, “I cannot be expected to respond to a dream I never had. Before one engages with a ghost story, they must first verify if the ghost exists.”
He insisted that he had never, in any context, made comments about Mahere or directed any inappropriate behavior toward her.
Mahere’s Background
Fadzayi Mahere is a prominent figure in Zimbabwean politics and public discourse. A former Member of Parliament, she previously served as the spokesperson for the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), once the largest opposition party in the country. Mahere has also represented Zimbabwe on international platforms, shedding light on the nation’s socio-political challenges.
She stepped down from her parliamentary position representing Mt. Pleasant after internal disputes and controversies within the CCC.
Chirambwe’s Final Remarks
In concluding his letter, Chirambwe emphasized that no expression of interest from a man can inherently constitute harassment unless it is unwelcome and persistent. “Even if I had made an overture, which I did not, it remains within her discretion to simply say yes or no,” he stated.
He maintained his innocence, describing himself as a man of integrity and resolve. “I am unshaken by any individual, whether living or departed, and if I had harbored any intentions, I would have approached her directly.”
