The conduct of Chief Murinye, born Ephias Munodawafa, of Masvingo, who attempted to block parents and learners from travelling to a newly established private boarding school – Riverton Academy Extension (Murinye), is not only unacceptable, but deeply troubling for a country that claims to value education, integrity and the rule of law.
Traditional leadership is meant to be a pillar of moral authority and community development — not a weapon to settle personal scores or extracts unlawful benefits.
What makes this case particularly disturbing is that the school in question was built with the chief’s full knowledge and consent.
At no point during the planning or construction stages was there any objection raised.
Only after the school became operational did the alleged interference begin, reportedly triggered by the proprietor, Philemon Mutangiri ’s refusal to enrol the chief’s children free of charge.
That a traditional leader would then seek to frustrate parents and learners — children whose only “crime” is pursuing education — points to abuse of authority of the worst kind.
If the allegations that Chief Murinye sought to be bribed are true, then this is corruption in its rawest form.
It must be condemned without hesitation or apology.
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Zimbabwe cannot afford to normalise corruption simply because it is wrapped in the language of customary law or traditional beliefs.
Culture should never be used as a shield for greed, intimidation or extortion.
This incident also exposes a deeper and more uncomfortable truth: the government bears responsibility for enabling such behaviour.
Over the years, traditional leaders have been granted expansive powers with limited oversight, often treated as untouchable figures.
Under the guise of respecting tradition, the state has effectively looked away while some leaders act with impunity.
In doing so, the government has become its own worst enemy, undermining its stated commitment to fighting corruption and promoting access to education.
Traditional leaders should be at the forefront of national development.
They should be champions of education, health, and social cohesion — mobilising communities to support government programmes, not sabotaging them for personal gain.
When a chief stands in the way of children going to school, that leader has abandoned the very essence of leadership.
Zimbabwe does not tolerate leaders who abuse power, regardless of their stature in society.
Chiefs are not above the law, nor are they beyond criticism.
This case should be nipped in the bud, firmly and decisively.
Failure to act sends a dangerous message that corruption is acceptable if one holds traditional authority.
The fight against corruption must be consistent and uncompromising.
If it is to mean anything, it must start with those entrusted to lead, protect and uplift their communities — not prey on them.
