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BAZ threatens sponsorship withdrawal

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THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has threatened to withdraw support to individuals and production houses in the film and television sector implicated in cases of harassment and sexual abuse.

THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has threatened to withdraw support to individuals and production houses in the film and television sector implicated in cases of harassment and sexual abuse.

BY STAFF REPORTER

BAZ’s sentiments came after award-winning scriptwriter Amanda Ranganawa blew the whistle on Mirazvo Productions directors Michael and Shem Zemura, whom she accused of sexually exploiting females during productions.

In leaked WhatsApp audio recordings, the Mutare-based Ranganawa accused the Zemura brothers of attempting to bed her and sexually exploiting other women in the trade before dumping them.

In a statement, BAZ chief executive officer Obert Muganyura condemned any form of abuse, warning the authority would not hesitate to immediately cease supporting individuals or companies involved in such acts of misconduct.

“The authority does not condone such reprehensible behaviour in the sector and will, indeed, withdraw its support from anyone fingered in sexual abuse and harassment of hard working practitioners and content creators. We encourage victims to speak out and report on such issues so that the culprits are brought to book and punished accordingly,” he said.

The Women Filmmakers of Zimbabwe (WFOZ) has also thrown its weight behind efforts by scriptwriter Ranganawa, as she pursues a legal case against the Zemura brothers. WFOZ spokesperson Rudo Chakanyuka said they were concerned about the alleged sexual exploitation of women in the industry.