Vusumuzi Dube
Nothando Zondo, Sunday News Reporter
In Lobengula West, Bulawayo, tensions are escalating as residents confront Zibusiso Prince Ncube, a bisexual man, accusing him of attempting to influence local youths to join the LGBTQIA+ community.
The situation has drawn significant attention, with some community leaders calling for his banishment from the suburb and even potential arrest for alleged sodomy and public indecency due to his open expression of sexuality.
A local resident leader, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “We want him banished from our community. His actions are corrupting our youths, and we believe he should face legal consequences for his behavior.”
This sentiment reflects a broader concern among some residents about the perceived influence of Ncube on the younger generation.
Zibusiso’s friend, who also requested anonymity for safety reasons, expressed deep concern for his well-being.
“We are really worried about Zibusiso’s safety. He was attacked in August 2022 just for being who he is. Recently, he lost some teeth after being beaten up by a group from the community who accused him of grooming young boys,” the friend revealed.
This violence was reportedly sparked when Ncube was seen sitting with several young boys in the neighborhood, where he would usually assist them with their homework.
Adding to his troubles, Zibusiso Prince Ncube was recently fired from his job at the National Employment Council for the Commercial Sector, further isolating him from support networks.
His friend lamented, “It’s heartbreaking to see someone so kind and gentle being treated this way. The community has turned against him, and we fear for his life.”
The legal landscape for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Zimbabwe is fraught with challenges. Since 1995, the government has actively campaigned against LGBTQIA+ rights, and sodomy is classified as unlawful sexual conduct under the Criminal Code. This legal framework creates an environment where individuals like Zibusiso face not only social ostracism but also the threat of legal repercussions for their sexual orientation.
Human rights organisations have also raised urgent alarms regarding the disturbing reports of sexual violence targeting LGBTQIA+ individuals within Zimbabwean prisons. Advocacy groups have documented a series of incidents where gay men and transgender individuals are subjected to rape and other forms of sexual abuse while serving their sentences.
According to a recent report by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZHRA), testimonies from former inmates reveal a chilling pattern of violence perpetuated against those identified as LGBTQIA+. Many survivors describe their experiences as not only physically traumatic but also psychologically devastating, leading to lasting mental health issues.
As the situation in Lobengula West unfolds, it highlights the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in Zimbabwe, where societal acceptance remains a significant hurdle.
Online Reporter