Pauline Gundiza reported Tafadzwa Muzondo to the law for indecent assault and the matter is at the Mbare courts. She then with the help of her Lawyer released a statement.
A few weeks ago, I reported an incident of indecent assault upon my person perpetrated by a fellow artist in the Zimbabwean Arts Industry. My bodily integrity was violated and I still feel dehumanized. This matter is now pending in court. As a result, I am not at liberty to divulge much detail as this may compromise the integrity of the court processes. Following that report, I have been subjected to incessant abuse and insults on social media and within the Arts industry circles. The amount of abuse I have received following this incident fortifies my belief that the Arts Industry is not a safe space particularly to female artists who fall prey to sexual exploitation, abuse and victimization that has been swept under the carpet for many generations. We need a safe space for artists in our dealings amongst ourselves as well as with fans, DJs, journalists, promoters and venue owners whom we interact with in the arts sector.
No one has the right to impose their desires on any other person’s body against their informed consent. Victims of sexual abuse must not be cowed into silence. Perpetrators of sexual abuse must be called out and be answerable to their actions. In many instances, they actually need help to rid themselves of this evil culture of abuse. Society needs to be more tolerant, sensitive and supportive to victims of sexual abuse and not subject them to secondary abuse, which leaves more scars than the initial abuse.
I wish to reiterate that I have no personal vendetta against anyone. My quest for justice is not motivated by any malice or ill-will. I have a clear conscience. I was violated. Many others are being violated. This needs to stop. It will not stop through the individual report I made. It requires collective action and input of all players in the music industry. The future growth of the arts industry will certainly be compromised if these issues that have been brought to the surface are not correctly addressed. A broad-based approach and strategy is required, and it takes more than simple resort to the avenues provided for in the criminal justice system. This is my call. Let’s join hands and end this scourge. Its not about personalities. Its nothing personal. This is our industry as a collective body of people, and we can only address issues affecting the industry as that collective body.
I would like to sincerely thank all who have offered their support and shown empathy and concern regarding this matter. Your support has made it possible for me to hold my head up and continue in the battle for justice. Together we can, and together we shall. I thank you
Pauline Gundidza
