A recent podcast episode hosted by DJ Ollah 7 featuring controversial social media personality Mai Jeremaya has ignited widespread outrage over its explicit content, lack of age restrictions, and perceived insensitivity to both legal and psychological matters.
The episode, aired on Tuesday, revisited previously dismissed rape allegations made by Mai Jeremaya against Thabo Blessing Dube and Martin Charlie. A Harare magistrate had earlier ruled that the claims were unfounded, concluding that Mai Jeremaya willingly engaged in sex-for-money transactions. Despite the ruling, the podcast allowed her to repeat the accusations, raising alarm over media responsibility.
What has drawn even more ire is the graphic nature of the discussion. Ollah 7 asked a series of controversial and highly personal questions, including:
“Do you recall when you had your first sexual encounter?”
“Was it smooth?”
“Has JMP ever asked for it after everything?”
Critics accused Ollah 7 of leading Mai Jeremaya into uncomfortable and potentially re-traumatizing territory, with many questioning his journalistic integrity and awareness of trauma-informed interviewing practices. The absence of viewer discretion warnings or content moderation further compounded public frustration.
Mental health experts and media analysts have also raised concerns over the public platform given to a woman previously found to have made false allegations. Some observers suggested Mai Jeremaya might be struggling with deeper psychological issues, citing inconsistencies in her narrative and a possible pattern of compulsive behavior.
In the now-viral interview, she made further revelations that stirred controversy, including admissions of infidelity and accepting money from other men. “Circumstances when I received money from men are there,” she said candidly.
Though Dube and Charlie were acquitted, their legal ordeal remains under review by the High Court, which may order a retrial if procedural concerns are identified.
Meanwhile, public discourse has shifted toward broader ethical concerns in Zimbabwean media. Social commentators are calling for stricter broadcasting standards, better safeguarding of survivors’ rights, and accountability for journalists who amplify unverified claims.
