Mnangagwa sucked into chieftainship row

Published: 3 hours ago

The High Court has dismissed a legal challenge questioning the appointment of Jestia Muzenda as Chief Makore, in a case that drew President Emmerson Mnangagwa into the dispute.

The challenge was brought by Clever Kumbirai Mazano, a Masvingo resident, who cited Mnangagwa, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, the Chiefs Council of Zimbabwe, the Masvingo Provincial Chiefs Council, the district development coordinator, and Muzenda in his petition. Mazano argued that the appointment process was irregular and violated the customs of the Makore people, the constitution, and the Traditional Leaders Act. He sought to have Muzenda's appointment nullified and a fresh selection process instituted.

Muzenda became Chief Makore after his father, Johannes Chadzimira Chihambakwe, ceded his nomination for the throne. Mazano contended that such a cession was invalid under traditional succession principles and that his objections to the appointment, presented to Mnangagwa and the provincial chiefs council, were ignored.

In their defense, the respondents argued that the cession of a nomination to another individual of royal lineage is part of the customs and traditions of the Makore community. They maintained that Muzenda's appointment was legitimate and in line with customary law.

Justice Sansley Zisengwe, presiding over the matter, ruled that Mazano had misunderstood the distinction between ceding a nomination and ceding the chieftainship itself. The judge noted that Johannes Chihambakwe only ceded his nomination, not the chieftainship, and that such cession is recognised under the customs of the Makore people, particularly when a nominated candidate is unable to assume the position due to infirmity or other valid reasons.

"The plaintiff failed to demonstrate that the cession of one's nomination for the position of chief is not part of this particular group of people," Justice Zisengwe said. He added that Mazano did not adequately challenge the respondents' claim regarding customary practices in cases where a nominated candidate cannot take up the position.

The court concluded that Mazano had not established a sufficient basis for his claims and dismissed the application with costs, effectively upholding Jestia Muzenda's appointment as Chief Makore.
- online

Tags: Mnangagwa,