Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
Tanya Baretto, a young entrepreneur from Highfields, Harare, has found herself at the center of a storm of controversy after her nail business at Mthwakazi Beauty Spa, located in the Hillside suburb of Harare, became a target for authorities.
Baretto, who had been renting a chair at the Mthwakazi Beauty Spa, had built a successful nail business, attracting a loyal clientele, particularly from the LGBTIQ+ community. However, the popularity of her business within the LGBTIQ+ community drew unwanted attention, leading to her becoming a target for authorities who questioned the frequency of visits by members of the LGBTIQ+ community to the spa.
The situation escalated further due to the name of the spa, which was associated with the Mthakwazi Republic Party, leading to suspicions of illegal political activities. A neighboring business owner, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that their establishment had been raided by authorities recently. Instead of finding evidence of political activities, the authorities came across the nail salon operated by Baretto. Shockingly, close to 15 members of the LGBTIQ+ community were rounded up and arrested, while Baretto managed to escape the arrest and is now in hiding.
In the wake of these events, Baretto’s whereabouts are uncertain as authorities are actively seeking her. The community and supporters of the LGBTIQ+ community have expressed concern for Baretto’s safety and are calling for a fair and just resolution to the situation.
The unfolding events have sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of the LGBTIQ+ community and the need for protection of individuals’ rights and freedoms. As the controversy continues to unfold, many are hoping for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of Tanya Baretto.
Online Reporter