Thomas Mapfumo, the renowned Zimbabwean musician currently residing in the United States, is demanding the return of five vehicles seized by Zimbabwean police in 2000. The vehicles, allegedly stolen BMWs, were confiscated under contentious circumstances, and Mapfumo asserts that the claims against him were unfounded. He contends that the true culprits, including the seller George Shugo, were never prosecuted.
Mapfumo, who has been living in exile since 2004, argues that the legal and personal harassment he faced over this matter contributed significantly to his decision to leave Zimbabwe. According to Mapfumo, the police seized his cars during an investigation, yet Shugo, the seller from whom Mapfumo purchased the vehicles, faced no legal consequences. The vehicles were subsequently left at Morris Depot, but when Mapfumo’s associate, Cuthbert Chirombo, attempted to retrieve them, they were missing.
The musician’s legal team is currently working to reclaim the seized vehicles. Mapfumo is also concerned that any request for his return to Zimbabwe to resolve the issue might be a trap set by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime. He maintains that the allegations against him were politically motivated, stemming from his outspoken criticism of former President Robert Mugabe’s administration rather than any actual criminal activity.
Mapfumo’s case highlights broader issues of political persecution and abuse of power, reflecting the challenges faced by critics of the Zimbabwean government. As Mapfumo continues to advocate for the return of his property, his situation remains a poignant example of the intersection between politics and personal freedoms in Zimbabwe.
In other news – Government launches heritage-ased training program for local authorities
The Zimbabwean government has unveiled a new heritage-based training initiative aimed at mayors, chairpersons, and councillors in local authorities. This program, which integrates the Zanu-PF’s ‘Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology’ manuals and modules, is designed to enhance the understanding and effectiveness of local government officials in their roles.
Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe announced the initiative on Wednesday, highlighting its goal to deepen councillors’ and council staff’s appreciation of their critical roles in national development. Read More
