Chronicle EditorPeter Matika, Chronicle Reporter
In the wake of Dumile Sibanda’s passing, his widow Loveness Moyo has reportedly found herself at the center of a contentious situation.
in December 2020, this publication reported on the passing on of Sibanda, who was described as a dedicated party official, with the Zanu-PF Politburo member, Cde Obert Mpofu saying the ruling party will find it difficult to replace him.
Sibanda had risen through the ranks to become a national consultative assembly member.
However, according to family sources it has been revealed to the media the hardships that have befallen Moyo following her husband’s death.
To complicate matters further, Mthokozisi, Dumile’s brother, has claimed that tradition dictates he should inherit Moyo as his wife. This revelation has caused a stir within the community, leaving Moyo grappling with a difficult decision about her future.
“During Dumile’s lifetime, he exerted pressure on Moyo and their three children – Muzukhona Emmanuel Sibanda, Mbongeni Arnold Sibanda, and Amanda Nothanda Sibanda – to actively campaign for Zanu-PF.
However, Moyo’s refusal to continue in this role following her husband’s demise has caused her to be labeled as a rebel. Party youths in Matabeleland North have persistently attacked her, leaving Moyo in a vulnerable and isolating position,” said the family member who identified himself as Thokozani Sibanda.
Mthokozisi has reportedly boasted in public that he will inherit Moyo as guided by tradition and no one will stand against that.
“It is so sad that Mthokozisi is even using Zanu-PF youth to intimidate Moyo, he says she should give in to his sexual demands because traditionally he is now entitled to inherit her following Dumile’s death. As a family we are even scared to intervene because his people can attack us,” said Thokozani.
Efforts to get a comment from Moyo were fruitless as her mobile phone was not reachable amid indications that she had since gone into hiding.
However, Mthokozisi in an interview with this publication boldly declared that he would look for and find Moyo.
“She is my wife, I will find her eventually, I appeal to anyone who might have information on her whereabouts to come forward, there is a reward,” said Mthokozisi.
The growing discord surrounding this case emphasizes the complexity of navigating traditional customs and personal autonomy. As Moyo fights for her right to chart her own path, the repercussions of her defiance reverberate throughout the close-knit community.
Sidumisile Mabena