THE Nemanwa chieftainship row in Masvingo province has sucked in President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Local Government minister July Moyo with the cabinet minister now accused of facilitating the installation of a new traditional leader after allegedly disregarding long-standing traditions and input from the family.
MOSES MATENGA
Moyo is said to have facilitated the process to have Tranos Manjiva installed as the new chief in a move that has incensed other family members.
The Local Government minister has since been dragged to the High Court, with Matambo seeking an interdict to stop the official installation of Manjiva. Matambo claims to be the rightful person to take over.
In his High Court urgent application, Matambo cited Manjiva, Moyo and Mnangagwa as the first, second and third respondents in the matter that has been set for hearing before Justice Rodg[1]ers Manyangadze.
“It emerged on Friday 9 September, 2022 that the 1st Respondent had been sneaked into the position and has now been recommended by the 2nd Respondent to hold the restored position of Chief Nemanwa,” Matambo said in his affidavit.
“This was not disclosed to me or other family members nor were the two houses that sit on the Chieftainship’s throne consulted or advised of the decision by the 2nd Respondent.”
Matambo accused Moyo of not getting any recommendations from the provincial chiefs’ council and accused of him of misrepresenting that he had gotten recommendations from other family members as he had alleged in his confirmation of Manjiva as the new chief.
“In terms of the traditions of the Chieftainships, it is known in the Nemanwa clan that the house to which 1st Respondent belongs is not on the original family tree.
The 1st Respondent’s house was never considered for chieftainship because it was reserved for priesthood of the rainmaking ceremonies which is called Mutoro.”
“lt is my submission that the holding of the meeting by officials who are not designated to do that function rendered the appointment of the 1st Respondent a nullity,” Matambo said.
He alleged the failure to properly coordinate the meeting by Moyo was confirmation the meet[1]ing was set up with a predetermined outcome. Manjiva was confirmed substantive chief by Minister Moyo in a letter dated 5 September 2022.
“This recommendation was made by the 2nd Respondent to the 3rd Respondent in terms of a Cabinet minute CM/S1/22 done by 2nd Respondent on 24 June 2022 but which was approved by the 3rd Respondent on 30 August, 2022.”
