Chiefs fume over Independence Day snub

Some traditional leaders were left fuming after security personnel denied them entry into Maphisa Stadium during Zimbabwe's 46th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday.

Chief Fuyane of Maphisa expressed disappointment that he was not given the opportunity to welcome visitors or deliver closing remarks as the host chief. "As the host chief, I am disappointed for not being given that opportunity to either welcome or thank all those who attended the celebrations," he told The Standard.

He added that several local chiefs, including Chief Bidi, were turned away at the gate because security details failed to recognize them. "There was a lot of stampeding. For some, we ended up negotiating for their entry into the stadium since they were not recognised by the security personnel," Fuyane said. He suggested blending local security with national teams to avoid such incidents in future.

Despite the frustrations, Fuyane praised the independence legacy projects in the province, highlighting new laboratories, cultural centres, and stadiums. "Mahetshe primary and secondary schools are among the schools that experienced massive developments. We now have a cultural centre and a stadium. These are the first of their kind in the district and the province at large," he said.