Chief accused of diverting memorial funds

A deepening leadership and trust crisis has engulfed Chief Chimombe's area in Gutu, where Acting Chief Chimombe, born Muzvare Rutsate Muzondo, faces serious allegations from his own family over missing funds that were reportedly raised for his late father's tombstone.

At the same time, villagers are protesting what they describe as coercive financial demands for the tombstone memorial and the construction of toilets at a local police camp.

Family members accuse the acting chief of collecting money from villagers under false pretences, claiming he never consulted them about the fundraising drive.

A family member who spoke to TellZim News on condition of anonymity said the family only learned of the supposed fundraising through the media.

"The entire family is deeply disappointed. We purchased the tombstone in Harare ourselves for US$550, and one of the chief's granddaughters based in Australia paid for it," said the source.
"The acting chief did not contribute a single cent, nor did he attend the unveiling ceremony on October 10. If he collected money from villagers for this purpose, he must explain where it went. This is not just about money  -  it's about disrespecting our patriarchy."

The remarks contradict Acting Chief Chimombe's reported directive that each village contribute US$12 towards the memorial and tombstone unveiling, along with an additional US$5 and a six-pack of Chibuku Super beer per household.

When contacted for comment, Acting Chief Chimombe denied ever demanding money for the tombstone.

"I never asked for anything for the tombstone unveiling," he said. "We only requested funds from villagers to build toilets at the police camp, as instructed, and this included other chiefs  -  not just my area."

He also defended his absence from the tombstone unveiling, saying he had a chiefs' meeting in Masvingo that the family was aware of.

"All that you hear from my clansmen are lies meant to tarnish my image," he added.

However, family members maintain that his absence was consistent with a pattern of detachment from family and traditional obligations.

"When our father died on July 1 and was buried on July 5, he refused to be part of the burial process even though he was present throughout the day," said another family member.

Rodger Marozhe, an aide to the acting chief, confirmed that contributions were indeed requested but denied that they were compulsory.

"Chief Chimombe is not forcing anyone to contribute. He only asked those who are able to assist in the Manyaradzo (memorial ceremony) for his late father," Marozhe said. "Each village was asked to pay US$12, with some funds also meant for the construction of toilets at Bhasera Police Station."

Sources close to the matter allege that the acting chief later backed down from his demands after TellZim News published an earlier story on the issue, prompting scrutiny from both villagers and local authorities.

The controversy has widened divisions within the Chimombe family and raised questions about accountability and leadership ethics in the traditional institution.