Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Weekender Reporter
THREE men from Mutasa have been ordered to pay three goats each after Chief Mutasa’s community court found them guilty of repeatedly flouting the sacred observance of chisi — a day of rest deeply respected across the region.
The culprits, James Mvere of Ngarura Village and brothers, James and David Sahumani, were accused of openly disregarding customary law that forbids agricultural work on Fridays, a day reserved for rest and community reflection.
The case was brought forward by Abel, representing Headman Sahumani, who told the court the trio had ignored repeated warnings from traditional leaders. Instead of heeding directives, they continued working their fields on Fridays, showing what he described as “blatant disrespect” for both custom and authority.
Abel further alleged that the men refused to attend community hearings and disregarded summons, deepening the sense of defiance. Chief Mutasa’s ruling — a fine of three goats each — was intended not only as punishment but also as a stern reminder that tradition remains binding in the community.
“Mvere has consistently worked on chisi days despite numerous warnings. He has failed to attend hearings convened by the headman, and has, on several occasions, spoken disrespectfully about traditional leaders,” said Abel, further accusing James Sahumani, Headman Sahumani’s younger brother, of refusing to recognise the headman’s authority.
“When he was summoned to appear before the headman’s court, he allegedly said he would only answer to Chief Mutasa. David Sahumani is also accused of showing similar disregard for the authority of the headman,” said Abel.
Responding to the allegations, Mvere denied insulting traditional leaders, but acknowledged that he had worked on Fridays.
He said the dispute between himself and Headman Sahumani dated back to 2013, and stemmed from differences over religious practices.
Mvere explained that he belongs to the African Apostolic Faith Church, and had previously engaged the headman regarding which traditional customs his church members could participate in.
“Several years ago, we reached an understanding regarding certain cultural practices because of our religious beliefs. However, after that meeting, I felt targeted, and was repeatedly summoned over issues linked to our refusal to participate in activities that conflict with our faith,” he said, citing a community project involving moulding bricks for a local clinic as an example.
“We did not participate because our church does not use hospitals or clinics, and from that point onwards, relations became strained,” he said.
Regarding chisi observance, Mvere argued that work commitments prevented him from resting on Fridays.
“I repeatedly requested permission to work on Fridays because I will be occupied on Saturdays, but my requests were denied. My decision to continue working was not an act of defiance, but a matter of necessity,” said Mvere, further maintaining that observing chisi conflicted with his religious beliefs.
“I am a Christian, and I believe the Friday rest tradition is rooted in African Traditional Religion. Observing it will be contrary to my faith,” he said, further arguing that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship.
Opening a copy of the Constitution before the court, Mvere cited provisions protecting citizens’ rights to practise their religion freely.
“No one should be compelled to participate in religious practices against their beliefs,” he argued, insisting that he had consistently fulfilled his civic obligations.
“I pay my taxes and have always complied with my responsibilities as a member of the community,” he said.
David Sahumani denied that he had worked on Fridays or ignored summons from traditional leaders.
“I respect the headman and attends meetings whenever I am called. I believe the issue is rooted in personal differences rather than any wrongdoing on my part,” he said.
His brother, James Sahumani, also denied violating chisi.
“I have always honoured the Friday rest tradition and have never knowingly violated it,” he said.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Chief Mutasa referred to the Traditional Leaders Act, and reminded the accused that traditional leaders are mandated to uphold and enforce customary practices within their jurisdictions.
The chief emphasised that chisi remains an important cultural institution aimed at preserving social order and respecting local traditions.
“Fridays hold special significance in this community, and the observance of chisi is one of the customs that bind us together. When traditional leaders instruct people to rest on that day, these instructions must be respected,” said Chief Mutasa.
The traditional leader said adherence to customary laws did not necessarily conflict with religious beliefs, and urged church members to respect community norms.
“Church leaders encourage their followers to obey the laws of the land. If pastors and elders can respect these customs, there is no reason for individuals to disregard them,” said Chief Mutasa, adding that ignoring directives issued by traditional leaders amounted to disrespect for authority vested in traditional institutions.
“When this court declares a day of rest, continuing to work on that day constitutes contempt of this court,” he said.
Following deliberations, Chief Mutasa found the three men guilty of violating chisi and disrespecting Headman Sahumani’s authority.
Each man was ordered to pay a fine of three goats.
