High Court Pulls the Plug on Tinashe Mugabe’s Explosive DNA Show
A bombshell verdict has rocked Zimbabwe’s entertainment and legal spheres, as the High Court of Zimbabwe orders the immediate suspension of Tinashe Mugabe’s controversial Closure DNA Show, declaring its sensationalized paternity reveals “a gross violation of personal privacy rights.”
Delivering a scathing judgment, Justice Joseph Mafusire reversed his 2021 ruling that had permitted the show to continue, stating:
“While the public may find entertainment in the personal tragedies of others, the court cannot condone the televised humiliation of citizens, especially vulnerable women and children.
“DNA testing serves a scientific purpose – not as a spectacle for public consumption.”
The ruling cited multiple cases where participants claimed they were coerced into appearing, only to have their deepest family secrets laid bare for millions to see.
One devastated mother, who spoke anonymously, lamented:
“They promised me help, but instead, they made me a laughingstock. My child’s father denied him on live TV. Now we get mocked in the streets.”
Legal analysts say this landmark decision could redefine privacy rights in Zimbabwean media, sending a strong message about ethical boundaries in reality television.
in a bold move, Tinashe Mugabe addressed the press outside the Harare High Court, flanked by a throng of loyal supporters chanting “DNA! DNA!”
“This isn’t about privacy – it’s about silencing the truth!” Mugabe declared defiantly. “Powerful men don’t want their secrets exposed. But I won’t stop. We’re appealing TODAY!”
His company, Global DNA Zimbabwe, wasted no time in releasing an official statement, accusing the court of “bowing to political pressure” and vowing to take the battle to the Supreme Court.
The statement further argued:
“Over 87% of our cases have reunited fathers with their children. If the show ends, thousands will never get the answers they deserve.”
With the Closure DNA Show in legal limbo, rival DNA testing companies have already begun advertising “private, discreet paternity testing” in a clear bid to snatch up Mugabe’s clientele.
Experts say the show’s abrupt shutdown has created a lucrative opportunity for these businesses, eager to offer an alternative to Mugabe’s high-profile drama.
—iHarare
