Former Studio 263 actress, Anne Nhira, has dismissed allegations that the government only listened to her letter of objection because she was sleeping with government ministers. Nhira categorically denied being involved in any inappropriate relationships with any minister. This comes after Patrick Zhuwao banned Zodwa Wabantu from performing at the Harare Internationa Carnival following a letter of objection from the former Studio 263 actress. However, a lot of people seemed unhappy about Zodwa’s ban and some accused Nhira of using her relationship with senior government officials to influence them. Nhira took to Facebook to deny the allegations writing:
Kindly note my engagement with government over the Zodwa issue was not only with the Ministry of Tourism but also with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Youth as well as the Ministry of Culture. All this was not inspired by malice but a standpoint which probably resonates with many though they may not be as vocal. Prior to this engagement I have always stood for empowerment of local artists and I still feel it can be done. For example if we can have Zodwa performing for God knows how much, why not having Gonyeti or Bev performing for the same amount? While some question the logic behind having one performer stopped, it goes without saying that you can’t have wholesome advocacy.
Allegations have also been thrown around to the fact that I only got government attention because of “inappropriate” relations with government ministers but the truth is, it’s not every woman who sleeps their way to their goals and objectives. My engagement no mater how it may not be ideal for some was purely intellectual and for a good I believe in. Given the energy I have seen amongst many I believe we can achieve a lot if we harness our energy for a common good.
Some of the allegations were thrown around after Nhira was spotted at the Zanu-PF Solidarity march to show support for First Lady Grace Mugabe after she allegedly assaulted South African model, Gabriella Engels. Grace only escaped prosecution after she was granted diplomatic immunity.