The quest of Aaron Chaka to legally assume the surname Mtukudzi and be acknowledged as the son of the late music legend Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi has encountered a significant setback. The High Court, under Justice Fatima Chakapamambo Maxwell, has dismissed Chaka’s application, citing substantial discrepancies and the lack of concrete evidence in his claims. This ruling has intensified an already contentious dispute within the Mtukudzi family and stirred a heated debate about the legitimacy of paternity claims.
Chaka, 45, sought a legal order to amend his birth certificate to reflect Oliver Mtukudzi as his father. However, the Registrar of Births and Deaths, the case’s first respondent, argued that such a request effectively amounted to a re-registration of Chaka’s birth certificate—a process requiring more rigorous proof. The court echoed these concerns, emphasizing the necessity for “concrete evidence,” including a paternity test, to substantiate Chaka’s claims.
The court’s ruling highlighted several inconsistencies in Chaka’s application. One notable issue was the timing of his birth certificate acquisition. Chaka had claimed that the document was obtained to facilitate his schooling, but Justice Maxwell found this assertion problematic. “In the 1980s, children were typically enrolled in school between six or seven years of age,” Justice Maxwell observed. “If the birth certificate was indeed for schooling purposes, it should have been acquired in the 1980s.”
Furthermore, Chaka’s birth certificate was obtained on November 4, 2005—26 years after his birth and 25 years after he purportedly learned of his biological father. The court noted that the certificate was registered on October 4, 1979, just nine months after Chaka’s birth. This discrepancy raised questions about the authenticity of Chaka’s claims. Additionally, there were issues regarding the name of Chaka’s mother on the birth certificate, which did not match the names cited in his affidavits.
The court’s ruling has exacerbated tensions within the Mtukudzi family. Daisy Mtukudzi, the late musician’s widow, has vehemently opposed Chaka’s claims, branding him an imposter and demanding a DNA test. “Why has he suddenly come forward claiming to be my husband’s son? What is his real motive?” Daisy Mtukudzi challenged in an interview. She has consistently pushed for a DNA test to verify Chaka’s claims, expressing skepticism about his intentions.
Chaka, however, has refused to undergo a DNA test, citing cultural objections. He has argued that such tests are contrary to his traditions and has criticized those urging him to submit to testing. “I will never make myself available for DNA testing,” Chaka stated, asserting that this request conflicts with his cultural values.
The court’s decision has left Chaka’s future uncertain, with his claim now contingent on the outcome of a paternity test—a test he has firmly declined to take. Chaka has promised to provide an interview to The Sunday Mail Entertainment but failed to appear by the publication deadline, citing concerns over the handling of his story.
The dispute has cast a long shadow over the Mtukudzi family, already grappling with multiple paternity claims since Tuku’s death in 2019. At least four individuals, including Chaka, have emerged, each claiming to be Tuku’s child. This controversy has heightened the scrutiny on the late musician’s estate, which is primarily controlled by Daisy Mtukudzi according to a will filed by the law firm.
The late Oliver Mtukudzi’s official children—Sandra, Selmor, Samantha, Sybil, and the late Sam—remain the recognized heirs. The family’s assets include the Pakare Paye Arts Centre and various vehicles, including a Land Rover Discovery with personalized number plates. The court’s ruling has intensified the family’s internal strife and thrown Chaka’s claims into further uncertainty. His fight for recognition as Tuku’s son now hinges on the resolution of the paternity test issue, which continues to stir debate and division among those involved.
In other news – Dr. Malinga’s family grows: Sixth baby arrives for the couple
Dr. Malinga, the celebrated South African music star, and his wife Boitumelo Mali are overjoyed to announce the arrival of their sixth child. The couple has welcomed a baby girl, adding a new chapter to their growing family.
In a heartfelt message, Dr. Malinga shared the news with his followers: “God blessed us with a baby girl, baby number six.” The announcement was met with warm congratulations from fans and friends alike. A close friend of the couple spoke to Zimoja about their expanding family, highlighting Dr. Malinga’s dedication as a father. Read More
