RTG evicts chiefs awaiting Mnangagwa's US$1,500 christmas stipends

HARARE – A delegation of traditional chiefs was left stranded outside the prestigious Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare this week after hotel authorities denied them re‑entry, saying they had already been formally checked out. The incident marked a humiliating end to their wait for funds promised by President Emmerson Mnangagwa during their annual conference.

The chiefs, who had been accommodated at the five‑star property while awaiting disbursement of government support packages, were reportedly unable to pay for continued lodging when the promised stipends failed to arrive on schedule.

Witnesses described scenes of confusion and distress on Thursday, with traditional leaders from various provinces huddled outside the hotel entrance clutching bags, as security refused them admission citing standard checkout procedures.

"We were told the funds were imminent when the President made assurances. Now we have nowhere to go, but our provincial leaders have already left because they were given their Christmas stipends at the venue," said one chief, speaking anonymously.

"We are leaders of communities, yet we are being treated like vagrants. When we tried to rest at the waiting area and restaurant sections, we were told we were disturbing guests," he added.

The standoff underscores growing tensions between rural traditional leadership and the cash‑strapped central government, which is grappling with fiscal constraints, delayed budget releases and dwindling reserves. Chiefs have long been key political allies of the ruling Zanu‑PF, often mobilising grassroots support during elections and State initiatives.

Mnangagwa had earlier pledged increased allowances and logistical support for chiefs, but critics argue the promises were made without securing budgetary backing, leaving many leaders exposed.

The Rainbow Towers Hotel, owned by the Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), has previously been embroiled in high‑profile disputes over accommodation and billing.

RTG spokesperson Pride Khumbula confirmed the matter had since been resolved.

"Yes, we are aware of the matter. The Ministry of Local Government instructed us to rebook the chiefs for an additional night, as the ministry has not yet completed disbursing the funds. The chiefs had initially been booked at different hotels, but they were directed to come to Rainbow Towers to receive their stipends collectively. The issues have since been resolved, and the chiefs were also provided with lunch," Khumbula said.

Efforts to reach the Local Government Minister for comment were unsuccessful.