Bulawayo Man Risks Jail After Allegedly Sharing Wife’s Intimate Videos on WhatsApp

WhatsApp

By Staff Reporter

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe — A Bulawayo man is facing potential criminal charges after allegedly posting intimate videos and photographs of his wife on his WhatsApp status, in what legal experts describe as a serious violation of Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act.

The man is accused of sharing the material after obtaining videos allegedly showing his wife having an affair with her manager at a well-known fast-food outlet where she works. While the alleged infidelity has stirred public debate, lawyers warn that the husband’s response may have crossed several legal red lines.

According to legal experts, the non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos, commonly referred to as revenge porn, is a criminal offence under the Cyber and Data Protection Act (Chapter 12:07), regardless of the circumstances or emotional distress involved.

Revenge Porn Is a Crime — Even in Marriage

The law prohibits the sending, posting, or distribution of intimate content through WhatsApp, social media platforms, or any electronic means without the subject’s consent. This includes WhatsApp statuses, family groups, and “close friends” chats.

Legal practitioners stress that the Act is designed to protect privacy, dignity, and bodily autonomy, even in cases that provoke public outrage. “Infidelity does not suspend the law,” said Bulawayo-based lawyer Welshman Ncube. “The moment intimate images are shared without consent, a criminal offence has been committed.” Under the Act, intimate content includes images or videos depicting nudity, exposed private body parts, or sexual acts. A conviction carries a Level 10 fine of up to US$700, a prison sentence of up to five years, or both.

Multiple Legal Risks for the Husband

Another Bulawayo lawyer, Matshobane Ncube, warned that the husband’s legal problems may have begun even earlier. “If the husband accessed his wife’s phone without permission, that alone could constitute unlawful access to a computer system,” he said, referring to Section 163A (1) (c) of the Act.

That offence attracts a Level 14 fine of up to US$5,000 or imprisonment of up to five years.

Legal experts say the wife may pursue multiple remedies, including:

• Criminal charges for unlawful sharing of intimate material

• Civil claims for defamation and emotional distress

• Divorce proceedings

• Charges for unlawful access to electronic devices

The case has reignited debate around digital privacy, marital conflict, and revenge porn laws in Zimbabwe, underscoring that emotional reactions do not excuse criminal conduct.