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Mapfumo defends accepting Chivayo's US$1 million gift
2 hrs ago |
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CHIMURENGA music icon Thomas "Mukanya" Mapfumo has defended his decision to accept a reported US$1 million from businessman Wicknel Chivayo, saying he has no reason to hate the controversial entrepreneur, whom he described as one of his biggest fans.
Mapfumo received criticism, particularly from some opposition supporters and social media users, after accepting the money following his performances at musician Jah Prayzah's star-studded wedding and a separate private function.
Some critics argued that the veteran musician should have rejected the gift to distance himself from Chivayo, who has long been a polarising figure in Zimbabwean politics and business.
Responding to the criticism, Mapfumo questioned why he should turn down the generosity of someone who has supported his music for years.
"Hapana kuti chasiyana chii, hamuna kunzwa Chikomo achitaura kuti Wicknel is a big fan yaMukanya. If he can buy my CDs and play them in his car, why should I ignore what he wants to do for me?" Mapfumo said.
The 80-year-old musician also said he was not responsible for investigating the source of Chivayo's wealth, arguing that if there were any wrongdoing, it was up to law enforcement authorities to act.
"Do I even know where he is getting his money? If he is a thief, why not arrest him? He is helping poor musicians," he said.
Mapfumo used the opportunity to call for national unity, saying divisions and hatred were hindering Africa's progress.
"Kubatana ndokunodiwa pakati pedu kuti nyika ienderere mberi. Izvi zvatinoita izvi kuti iwe uriwe chii chii, iwe urikudzaku dzaku hazvina kwazvinotisvitsa. Ndosaka muchiona Africa haina kubatana and zvinhu zvirikunetsa muAfrica. Kwaanema xenophobia kunana South Africa vanhu vakubatana pahuro hazvisirizvo zvatinoda," he said.
His remarks come amid continuing public debate over Chivayo's growing role as a benefactor to Zimbabwean artists, athletes and public figures through high-value cash gifts and luxury vehicles. While supporters view the businessman as a philanthropist who is uplifting local talent, critics have questioned the source of his wealth and the political implications of his public generosity.
Mapfumo's comments make clear that he sees no contradiction in accepting Chivayo's support, maintaining that his focus is on appreciating a fan who has chosen to recognise his contribution to Zimbabwean music.
Mapfumo received criticism, particularly from some opposition supporters and social media users, after accepting the money following his performances at musician Jah Prayzah's star-studded wedding and a separate private function.
Some critics argued that the veteran musician should have rejected the gift to distance himself from Chivayo, who has long been a polarising figure in Zimbabwean politics and business.
Responding to the criticism, Mapfumo questioned why he should turn down the generosity of someone who has supported his music for years.
"Hapana kuti chasiyana chii, hamuna kunzwa Chikomo achitaura kuti Wicknel is a big fan yaMukanya. If he can buy my CDs and play them in his car, why should I ignore what he wants to do for me?" Mapfumo said.
The 80-year-old musician also said he was not responsible for investigating the source of Chivayo's wealth, arguing that if there were any wrongdoing, it was up to law enforcement authorities to act.
"Do I even know where he is getting his money? If he is a thief, why not arrest him? He is helping poor musicians," he said.
Mapfumo used the opportunity to call for national unity, saying divisions and hatred were hindering Africa's progress.
"Kubatana ndokunodiwa pakati pedu kuti nyika ienderere mberi. Izvi zvatinoita izvi kuti iwe uriwe chii chii, iwe urikudzaku dzaku hazvina kwazvinotisvitsa. Ndosaka muchiona Africa haina kubatana and zvinhu zvirikunetsa muAfrica. Kwaanema xenophobia kunana South Africa vanhu vakubatana pahuro hazvisirizvo zvatinoda," he said.
His remarks come amid continuing public debate over Chivayo's growing role as a benefactor to Zimbabwean artists, athletes and public figures through high-value cash gifts and luxury vehicles. While supporters view the businessman as a philanthropist who is uplifting local talent, critics have questioned the source of his wealth and the political implications of his public generosity.
Mapfumo's comments make clear that he sees no contradiction in accepting Chivayo's support, maintaining that his focus is on appreciating a fan who has chosen to recognise his contribution to Zimbabwean music.
Source - online
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