Published: 3 hours ago

Manicaland traditional leader Chief Oliver Saurombe is facing potential legal action over remarks in which he called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to serve as Zimbabwe's life president. Lawyers have demanded a public apology and retraction, warning that failure to comply could see the chief dragged to court.

The controversy stems from comments Saurombe made during a community event on drug abuse awareness, where he not only called for Mnangagwa's life-presidency but also chanted the ruling Zanu-PF slogan, "Pamberi neZanu-PF." The remarks drew immediate criticism from human rights activists, legal experts, and opposition figures who argue that traditional leaders must remain politically neutral.

The demand for retraction was delivered to Chief Saurombe on September 5, 2025, by lawyers from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) representing Pritchard Tafadzwa Paradzayi. According to the letter, Saurombe's statements were a violation of section 281(2) of the Constitution, which prohibits traditional leaders from engaging in partisan politics. "Through your utterances, you acted in a partisan manner, furthered the interests of a political party, Zanu-PF, and violated the fundamental rights and freedoms of the general citizenry of Zimbabwe," the lawyers said.

ZLHR cited a recent High Court ruling involving Chief Seke from Mashonaland East, who was ordered to retract similar partisan remarks in 2024. The letter gave Chief Saurombe 10 days to issue an "unqualified public retraction and unreserved apology" or face legal proceedings without further notice. Copies of the demand were also sent to the National Council of Chiefs and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.

Section 7 of the Traditional Leaders Act allows for the suspension of a chief found guilty of misconduct, including participation in partisan politics. Human rights lawyer Obey Shava described Saurombe's comments as "plainly unconstitutional," while the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) warned against the politicisation of traditional institutions.

The remarks come amid growing tensions within Zanu-PF, where a faction of supporters has called for Mnangagwa's term to be extended beyond the constitutional limit of 2028, a move that has divided the ruling party and intensified succession debates. President Mnangagwa has repeatedly stated he has no intention of extending his term, and he has not yet named a successor.

Chief Saurombe is yet to respond publicly to the calls for retraction and apology.
- newsday

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