ZANU-PF chooses silence over service, dumps Chief Hwenje

HARARE - In a shocking betrayal, Zimbabwe's ruling party, ZANU-PF, has abandoned veteran musician Chief Hwenje, whose endorsement songs rallied support and considered political campaign rallies' national anthem during previous elections, but rather opting for those artistes who either publicly or secretly support (endorse) opposition parties (then) including Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC under then leader, Nelson Chamisa) and Movement for Democratic Change (MDC under Douglas Mwonzora).

Investigations and observations by Bulawayo24.com gathered that despite his (Hwenje) hit 'Mai Welly' serving as a campaign anthem, the party halted financial aid for Hwenje's welfare and invited artistes (musicians) such as Enzo Ishal, Bazooker/Bazooka, Ndunge Yut, Sniper Storm, Ti Gonzi, Allan Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Mark Ngwazi, baba Harare among others who have publicly performed during opposition political parties' rallies.

"He is being snubbed to perform at several national functions, despite that its supporters dance to his music. Affiliates and other comrades from the structures are just enjoying his music, but he is receiving no dime to cover his medical bills. He is wailing in abject poverty despite the fact that his songs communicated (with) and recruit mass audiences," one source claims.

"It is, however, shocking that Hwenje and other party supporters that those artistes or musicians are given priority to perform during rallies or other related party functions. Sometimes even if he (Hwenje) attended those functions, he is not given an opportunity to perform or showcase his music," the source added.

"Meanwhile, Hwenje is moving around begging for money for covering his medical examinations and bills, but therefore is no one in his sight. Some choral groups, DJ Masomere, and Morari Team (entertainment group during availing and Presidential Revolving Fund launches are being paid handsomely to dance to Chief Hwenje's songs whilst he is falling on hard times and could not enjoy his sweat," the source said.

Team Morari (an entertainment group assembled to accompany Tungwarara to perform and entertain audience during launches of Presidential Revolving Funding launch or rallies) is allegedly on payroll and receive a US$300 monthly salary (each) consisting of a thirty-five member network which gobbles US$10,500 before factoring in some expenses.

Hwenje (37) once accused businessman Wicknell Chivayo of failing to deliver a promised US$50,000 house, calling it 'bewitching' and a 'dummy deal'.

"If you get on the wrong train, get off," he warned, hinting at disillusionment with ZANU-PF's inner circle.

Hwenje's fans demand accountability.

ZANU-PF's shift reflects a broader trend of rewarding silence over service, with Hwenje's fans fuming over the act as the highest level of betrayal.

What's your take on this? Should artists prioritize loyalty or independence?