Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
Bathabile Faith Moyo and her partner Cleopatra Dube have found themselves at the center of a storm of controversy in Bradfield, following reports of their alleged involvement in a lesbian affair and the operation of an upmarket hair salon in their home.
The couple’s salon, which gained popularity within the LGBTIQ+ community, has become a focal point of tension in the neighborhood.
The salon, located in the couple’s residence, quickly garnered a loyal following among members of the LGBTIQ+ community, drawing ire from some residents in Bradfield. The situation escalated as accusations of operating an illegal salon surfaced, compounded by the fact that same-sex relationships are considered illegal in Zimbabwe, a predominantly Christian state.
These tensions reached a boiling point as the salon became the target of frequent attacks by members of the community, and authorities reportedly conducted several raids on the premises. The ongoing conflict came to a head with the reported arrest of Cleopatra Dube during a raid on the salon last Saturday, leaving Bathabile Moyo to grapple with the aftermath.
One neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their perspective on the situation, stating, “The salon has been a source of contention in our community. Last Saturday, the salon was raided, and Cleopatra was taken into custody. It’s a shame to see Bathabile now in hiding, as the situation has become increasingly tense.”
The evolving circumstances surrounding the salon and the couple’s personal lives have sparked intense debate within the community, reflecting broader societal challenges faced by the LGBTIQ+ population in Zimbabwe. As the story continues to unfold, questions of legal, social, and human rights implications loom large, with the community grappling with the complexities of the situation.
The fate of the salon and the couple remains uncertain, underscoring the deep-seated tensions and challenges faced by individuals within the LGBTIQ+ community in Zimbabwe. As the community reckons with these issues, the story of Bathabile Faith Moyo and Cleopatra Dube serves as a stark reminder of the complex intersection of personal identity, legal frameworks, and societal norms.
Bongani Ndlovu