A former branch manager at a prominent chicken and chips fast-food outlet in Harare is facing serious allegations of rape, with the case taking a dramatic turn this week as inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony emerged. Xolisani Gama, 47, vehemently denied the charges when he appeared before regional magistrate Taurai Manuwere on Wednesday. The matter was adjourned until July 24.
The court heard that Gama allegedly forced a female subordinate into a secluded room on two separate occasions and subjected her to sexual assault. The alleged incidents took place on November 22, 2022, and September 14, 2023, according to the prosecution.
Prosecutor Nancy Chandakaona alleged that the first assault occurred within one of the restaurant’s restrooms, where the complainant and Gama had gone for an inspection. The second alleged assault took place in the disability room, again during an inspection.
Defence lawyer Tafadzwa Muvhami, representing Gama, argued that his client was innocent, highlighting discrepancies in the complainant’s account of the dates and times of the alleged assaults. Muvhami suggested that the complainant’s testimony was deliberately misleading the court.
“My client did not rape the complainant,” Muvhami asserted. “The circumstances she is alleging are incorrect. The alleged place, date, and time of the alleged rape do not correspond.”
However, the complainant explained that the trauma and stress associated with the alleged incidents had affected her memory, leading to her seeking counselling. She also expressed fear of losing her job if she reported the assaults.
“I was afraid of losing my job,” the complainant told the court.
The defence countered this argument, suggesting that Gama, not the complainant, would have been the one to lose his job if the allegations were reported.
Further complicating the case, the defence alleged that the complainant had sent nude pictures to Gama’s mobile phone. The complainant denied this allegation, adding that three of her co-workers had resigned after experiencing sexual harassment.
The allegations against Gama, if proven, would paint a disturbing picture of abuse of power within a seemingly ordinary business environment. However, there has been rumours that most fast food branch managers
The court proceedings are expected to continue on July 24, with the defence and prosecution presenting their arguments. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for both Gama and the complainant, as well as the wider community.
The case highlights the ongoing struggle against sexual violence and the need for robust legal processes to ensure justice for victims. It also underscores the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for women in the workplace, where they can feel empowered to report any form of harassment or abuse without fear of reprisal.
