Mliswa urges govt and Winky D to reconcile

Outspoken former Norton legislator Temba Mliswa has called for reconciliation between the government and dancehall superstar Winky D, saying continued hostility towards the artist has only strengthened his influence and appeal among Zimbabweans.

Winky D, renowned for his socially conscious and politically charged lyrics, has repeatedly clashed with authorities over songs that tackle issues such as corruption, inequality, and social injustice. Tensions came to a head in 2023 when the government reportedly banned his music from state-controlled media following the release of his critically acclaimed album Eureka Eureka.

The censorship sparked widespread criticism, including from Human Rights Watch, which accused authorities of attempting to silence dissenting voices in the arts sector.

Mliswa said the government should take a more constructive approach by engaging Winky D as a partner in national campaigns rather than treating him as an adversary.

"I have always admired Winky D and the manner he goes about his business. He is one of the clean artists whom government should engage to advance the message against drug abuse," Mliswa said. "The ruling party must work with him, and one can imagine the impact of engaging him together with Jah Prayzah in this campaign."

The former MP also praised Winky D for maintaining his composure and consistency in the face of criticism and restrictions.

"It's now clear that in trying to fight him they have only managed to make him bigger. My only issue is that he should be more accessible. Otherwise, he has managed to weather attacks while remaining focused," he said.

Winky D, often hailed as a voice of the people, has used his music to highlight the struggles of ordinary Zimbabweans, earning both admiration and resistance in equal measure.