IDigital influencer and motivational speaker Perseverance Maremeni, popularly known as Madam Speaker, has sparked a heated discussion on social media with her outspoken disapproval of Mihlali Ndamase’s recent open letter. Ndamase, a well-known beauty influencer, used her YouTube platform to address her involvement in a tumultuous relationship with businessman Leeroy Sidambe, which she described as toxic.
In her candid video, Ndamase admitted to being entangled in a controversial relationship with Sidambe, which she characterized as damaging. She emphasized the need for awareness regarding gender-based violence (GBV) and its impact on individuals and families. However, her attempt to address the situation has not gone uncontested.
Madam Speaker took to Instagram to express her dissatisfaction with Ndamase’s letter. In her post, she stated:
“There is no honour amongst thieves! Sometimes you will think you have won when you date a married man and get promoted from side chick to main. But in reality, you’re taking on a burden that was never yours.”
Her comments have resonated with many on social media, who argue that Ndamase’s letter overlooked the impact of her actions on Sidambe’s ex-wife, Mary-Jane, and their children. The response from the public reflects a mix of criticism and support.
On Twitter, user @Menzi__Nxumalo criticized Ndamase, saying, “Mihlali must go & apologise to Mary-Jane — what she did was wrong & just like that, what goes around comes around, karma works like that!! She ruined her career for a married man!! That Leeroy relationship was not worth it.”
Another user, @3202S, echoed similar sentiments, “Oh Mihlali Ndamase, I almost feel sorry for you but remembered how you belittled Mary-Jane Sidambe. It’s all coming back crashing down on you. Something is off about the open letter. It screams damage control! Learn or perish.”
User @joy_zelda weighed in with, “Mihlali is just bitter cos she used to support Leeroy financially and now he has cheated on her. She snatched a married man from Mary-Jane and kept provoking her daily about her. The pain she went through while Mihlali rejoiced at her tears has now come back to bite her.”
Despite the backlash, some voices defended Ndamase, advocating that the focus should remain on the issue of abuse rather than her involvement in the relationship. User @Leeann_Nthako remarked, “It’s weird how we are now blaming Mihlali for being abused but we believed it when Mary-Jane put it out there that he was abusive towards her. Let’s not shy away from the real issue irrespective of the circumstances.”
The conversation also touched on the warning signs that might have been ignored. User @Victori98500419 commented, “The moment Leeroy told her he plans on getting a divorce but no documents have been filed (at the time) should have told her all she needed to know about that man. That man cheated on his wife since day 1 why would you think you’re special when he’s dogged out women.”
Madam Speaker responded to these reflections, adding, “That’s the problem right there. We always think he would never do that to me, I am not her, I am me now look.”
As the debate continues, the focus remains on the complex dynamics of the situation and the broader issues of gender-based violence and personal responsibility. Ndamase’s letter and Madam Speaker’s critique highlight the multifaceted nature of these public controversies and their impact on all parties involved.
In other news – Fatal accident on Sam Nujoma Street, killing two and injuring two others
Harare was struck by another tragic road accident on Thursday, August 10, when a Toyota Hilux double cab ran over four pedestrians on Sam Nujoma Street (formerly Second Street Extension). The collision, which occurred around 10:00 am opposite Banc ABC, resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left two others injured.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the vehicle, which was carrying three passengers, struck the pedestrians as they attempted to cross the busy road. The impact was severe, and the scene was marked by the tragic loss of life. Read More
