THE Zimbabwe Leaf Tobacco Company (ZLT) has pledged a thorough investigation into allegations that a senior manager sexually harassed multiple female subordinates.
A NewsDay investigation found that blending manager Stephen Taruona is being accused of sexually harassing at least five women under his supervision.
One victim has filed a formal complaint with human resources manager Ed Chisi, leading to Taruona’s suspension.
In an official written response on Tuesday, ZLT assistant managing director Paul Grainger said the company took the allegations seriously.
“We take all allegations seriously, investigate them thoroughly and take appropriate action as warranted,” Grainger said in a statement sent via the company’s external affairs manager, Stephen Nyabadza.
The NewsDay report, detailed how senior management was treating the case as “top secret”, with multiple internal sources alleged a cover-up was underway.
“What I know is ZLT managers are trying to sweep this matter under the rug, fearing the precedent it will set,” a junior officer said on condition of anonymity.
Other sources described a climate of silence, with victims fearing retaliation from the accused, who is their immediate boss.
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“It’s true that the victims are suffering quietly. They fear they will be targeted and victimised. This is a big scandal at the organisation,” one source revealed.
Another added: “Marriages are being torn apart due to sexual harassment at work.”
According to a top official, several women at the company’s head office were subjected to years of relentless sexually provocative messages and verbal comments from Taruona.
“Sexual harassment is not tolerated under any circumstances,” Grainger said.
“ZLT’s non-retaliation policy strictly prohibits any form of reprisal against individuals who report concerns or violations in good faith.”
He noted that the company’s Code of Conduct “promotes a non-discriminatory environment” and affirmed ZLT’s “unwavering commitment” to fair employment practices.
