The rape trial of Musa Nyasha Dube Manyika, a senior manager at one of Harare’s leading property companies, commenced yesterday in front of Harare regional magistrate Fadzai Mthombeni.
The courtroom was filled with tension as the complainant took the stand to recount her traumatic experience, detailing allegations of repeated sexual abuse at the hands of Manyika.
Manyika, who has pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape, is accused of preying on a young learner who was a recipient of a scholarship designed to support underprivileged students.
During her testimony, the complainant recounted how Manyika allegedly exploited his position of authority, threatening her with removal from the scholarship programme following the assaults.
In response to the charges, Manyika vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that what transpired between them was consensual.
He described a “mutual attraction” that led to their intimate encounters, which he claims occurred on several occasions between November 2022 and June of the previous year.
According to Manyika, their interactions were characterized by shared interests in online gaming and communication, countering the complainant’s assertion of coercion.
Manyika’s defense included allegations that the complainant’s claims arose from liabilities related to her employment at the property company, suggesting a motive rooted in personal grievances rather than truth.
The courtroom heard him refute the state’s accusations alleging he misled her about his intent to marry, clarifying that he is married and engaged in an extramarital relationship.
The prosecution, led by Chido Gohori, aims to establish a narrative of abuse and manipulation, with the complainant detailing the emotional and physical turmoil inflicted upon her.
She also claimed to have contracted a sexually transmitted infection as a direct result of the encounters with Manyika, adding another layer to the grave accusations.
The trial is slated to continue on April 23.
