Statement by LEAD President Linda Masarira
I, Linda Tsungirirai Masarira, a gender justice advocate and mother, am deeply horrified and heartbroken by the sickening allegations of sodomy involving Deputy Headmaster Anymore Gumbo of Masase High School in Mberengwa.
The abuse of 35 innocent schoolboys, the most of them vulnerable Form 1 and 2 students, is a vile, satanic, and inhumane betrayal of trust that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. It is an affront to our values as a nation and a direct violation of the dignity and sanctity of our children.
Anymore Gumbo abused his authority, his office, and the faith of the community. He must be located without delay and brought before the law. I implore the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to intensify their efforts and ensure that this fugitive is found and justice is delivered without fear or favor.
I also call on the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to immediately blacklist Anymore Gumbo from ever working with children again. This case must serve as a catalyst for the Ministry to implement stricter child protection policies and conduct thorough background checks and psychological evaluations of educators nationwide.
For decades, we have rightfully championed the cause of the girl child. However, this tragic incident reminds us that the boy child is equally vulnerable and equally deserving of protection, advocacy, and justice. We must break the silence and stigma surrounding abuse against boys, and ensure that no child is left behind in our pursuit of gender justice.
As a society, we must reflect. We are losing our moral compass, and urgent intervention is needed at every level—family, school, community, and government. Let us rise with one voice and say: never again.
To the victims and their families, I send my deepest sympathies. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. Justice must prevail.
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