Online Reporter
Chronicle Reporter
Business owners operating in Bulawayo’s Central Business District (CBD) have clashed with the proprietor of a local hair salon amid allegations that the premises is being used as a meeting place for members of the LGBTIQ community, a claim that has heightened tensions in the area.
Several traders have accused the salon owner, Ms Metric Zulu, of promoting values they describe as taboo, and have called on authorities to intervene, with some demanding that the business be closed.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, one business owner claimed that the salon had become popular within the LGBTIQ community because of the alleged sexual orientation of its owner.
“We are not comfortable with what is happening there. This salon is becoming a hub for behaviours that go against our morals and culture. We want it closed because it is spreading taboo values in our society,” said the business owner.
Another trader alleged that tensions escalated recently following an incident involving a married woman who was allegedly in a relationship with Ms Zulu.
“There was drama when a husband reportedly discovered explicit pictures on his wife’s phone involving Ms Zulu. The man was furious and vowed to deal with her and even have her arrested if she did not leave his wife alone,” the trader claimed.
The allegations could not be independently verified at the time of publication.
Ms Zulu declined to comment on the accusations when contacted, saying she was consulting her legal representatives. Police in Bulawayo also said they were not aware of any formal complaint or arrest linked to the matter.
Civil society organisations have in the past warned against harassment of individuals based on perceived sexual orientation, noting that business disputes and personal conflicts should not be used to justify intimidation or discrimination.
Meanwhile, some neighbouring traders have urged calm, warning that escalating the matter could negatively affect business operations in the already struggling CBD.
Authorities had not issued any directive regarding the closure of the salon at the time of publication.
