HARARE – Youth minister Tinoda Machakaire has been drawn into an extraordinary social media spat with comedian Admire Mushambi, better known as Mama Vee, who performs skits dressed as a woman.
Machakaire issued a stern warning to Mushambi in a Facebook comment, urging the content creator to be more cautious about material that touches on government, culture and social values.
“Good afternoon Mr Admire Mushambi. I strongly urge you to understand the seriousness and consequences of this conduct,” Machakaire wrote.
“Social media must be used responsibly, particularly on matters that touch on government, our culture and the values of our people.
“Do not mistake restraint for weakness. Deliberately provoking government or disregarding the cultural sensitivities of our people is unacceptable.
“Please respect this call to order and exercise greater responsibility. We expect this position to be taken seriously. Such conduct cannot be tolerated.”
Machakaire did not say what prompted the warning.
Mushambi, who has built a following through comic videos in which he appears as the flamboyant Mama Vee character, later stated that he had “an enlightening and constructive conversation” with Machakaire.
Mushambi described himself as “simply a content creator, not an advocate for any hidden agenda”.
“I create content, share my thoughts and, sometimes, my words decide to take a little trip before my brain catches up!” he wrote.
But despite the apparent reconciliation, Mushambi suggested he had no plans to abandon his comedic content.
“I appreciate the conversation and the enlightenment. Lesson learned, message received but don’t worry, business as usual!” he wrote.
