Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
WHAT does the law say when someone voluntarily announces in public that she is smoking marijuana and drinking Bronco (Broncleer)?
Controversial social media star and Zimdancehall chanter Malloti has on several occasions publicly admitted to drug and substance abuse during her live videos.
Yesterday, during a live video, Malloti said her parents are proud of the behaviour she displays on social media.
“Taitomborova mahard drugs but tiku elevator ndosaka takumwa bronco and next year yacho tenge takusatomwa Bronco racho.
“Ndaitombove mbavha, zvema drugs diki diki izvi.
“Amai vangu havatomborwadziwe nazvo nekuti vanoziva kuti ndaitombovhura hombe,” she said.
Her statements celebrating drugs use have raised questions about the boundaries of freedom of speech, the role of the law and the responsibility of public figures in influencing young audiences.
Legal experts say that openly admitting addiction is not necessarily a crime on its own.
However, promoting or engaging in the use, possession or distribution of illegal substances can place individuals on the wrong side of the law.
Zimbabwe’s Dangerous Drugs Act criminalises the possession and use of substances such as marijuana (mbanje) unless a special government licence is obtained, mainly for commercial or research purposes.
Some believe her actions appear to place her “above the law,” while others see her public admissions as a cry for help.
“It is deeply concerning that someone with such a bad history and is on WANTED list in South Africa is behaving as if she is untouchable simply because no action has been taken against her.
“Instead of showing restraint, she is openly bullying people online, using and promoting substances such as bronco and mbanje on social media, and making statements that damage other people’s reputations.
“What is even more troubling is the apparent support from some officials, who continue to invite such a person to major events.
“This sends the wrong message to the public, especially to young people, and raises serious questions about the values and standards we are promoting as a society.
“It may be time for the relevant authorities to take a closer look at this situation before it escalates further. No one should feel above the law or beyond accountability.
“Malloti the clock is running,” said Rumbidzai Tagashira on social media.
No she is not taunting the police. If she is and must be arrested, what would happen to the drug addicts who are filling up rehab centres? Isn’t that amble evidence they have been using drugs? Unless there is a law to arrest those who boast about taking drugs.