A Harare man has stepped into the public spotlight with damning allegations against controversial social media personality Mai Jeremaya, accusing her of persistently soliciting sex and money, and questioning the validity of her now-dismissed rape case involving two men.
The man, who identified himself only as Baba Tanya, says he met Mai Jeremaya online in 2023. What began as friendly interaction quickly spiraled into a series of provocative and financially demanding messages from the influencer, known for her outspoken presence on social media. According to him, she frequently requested money and sexual favours, often offering to exchange nude photos or emotional manipulation in return.
“She was very forward. She would say she was feeling horny, ask for sex, and when I delayed or ignored her, she’d get angry — even accusing me of being selfish for not sending money for her hair,” said Baba Tanya.
In one of their flirtatious exchanges, shared with this publication, Mai Jeremaya complimented him during a video call, writing:
“Icho 😍 zvauri handsome nhaiwe, ndongoona tuma small pictures pa video call.”
(Translation: “Wow, you’re so handsome, I just saw glimpses of your face on the video call.”)
Despite never meeting in person, Baba Tanya claims he sent Mai Jeremaya over US$300 during the course of their communication — money meant for her hair, data bundles, and general upkeep. He now regrets ever initiating romantic conversations with her.
“I never met her physically, but the way she talked and manipulated me emotionally and sexually was disturbing. Looking back, I feel used. She made me feel guilty every time I delayed sending money,” he added.
Things took a dramatic turn when Mai Jeremaya recently made headlines after accusing two men — Thabo Blessing Dube and Martin Charlie — of gang-raping her at a lodge in Harare. However, after a full trial, the case collapsed.
Mai Jeremaya Scandal Deepens: Harare Man Claims She Demanded Sex, Cash, and Faked Rape Story
Harare Regional Magistrate Letwin Rwodzi dismissed the rape allegations last Friday, ruling that the complainant had been a willing participant in the encounter. The court found glaring inconsistencies in Mai Jeremaya’s testimony and expressed skepticism over her conduct and credibility. The magistrate also raised questions about the mysterious involvement of a private investigator, Advocate Kedha, who had inserted himself into the case under unclear circumstances.
Both Dube and Charlie were acquitted of all charges.
Baba Tanya says he wasn’t surprised by the court’s ruling, claiming that his own interactions with Mai Jeremaya painted a very different picture than the one she presented in court.
“I nearly volunteered to testify in court on behalf of the two accused men. After my own experience with her, I just didn’t believe her claims. She was constantly pressuring me for sex in our chats,” he said.
He shared several messages with this publication, including a moment when he asked for an explicit photo, to which Mai Jeremaya responded:
“Iri kuramba, front camera yangu haisi kuburitsa yakadonha.”
(Translation: “It’s not working, my front camera isn’t capturing my backside well.”)
In another message dated January 3, 2024, Mai Jeremaya thanked him for his financial support and moral encouragement:
“As I look back in the past year, I’d like to acknowledge you in helping me shape my brand and business simply by associating with me. Thank you so much. I wish you and your family all the best for the New Year 2024.”
The message, sentimental on the surface, now raises questions about the sincerity of her relationships and the true nature of her engagements with followers.
Despite repeated efforts, Mai Jeremaya could not be reached for comment by the time of publication. The screenshots and testimony offered by Baba Tanya have not been independently verified, though he insists they reflect the real nature of their interaction.
The scandal has reignited conversations on social media about the blurred lines between online influence, personal ethics, and accountability. Many Zimbabweans are questioning how public figures like Mai Jeremaya are using — or misusing — their platforms, especially when serious accusations like rape are involved.
Legal experts warn against drawing conclusions too quickly, pointing out that the burden of proof in criminal cases is high and that social media narratives can sometimes distort reality. Nonetheless, the fallout from the case — and the new claims from Baba Tanya — have cast a long shadow over Mai Jeremaya’s public persona.
As debate rages online, one thing is clear: the Mai Jeremaya saga is far from over.
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