Timothy Chiminya Mujuru (centre) says he is the legitimate chiefs installer in Zimbabwe
By Staff Reporter
Timothy Chiminya, declared the bona fide King of Munhumutapa by the High Court on September 8, 2022 (Case No. HC 3981/22), has vowed to continue executing the duties of a king despite resistance from the Ministry of Local Government and others doubting his credentials.
The Ministry recently urged Zimbabweans not to recognize Chiminya, arguing that the Constitution and the Traditional Leaders Act do not provide for the position of a king.
Section 283(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and Section 3 of the Traditional Leaders Act mandate that the President appoints, removes, or suspends chiefs based on recommendations from the provincial assembly of chiefs, the National Council of Chiefs, and the responsible Minister, in line with the community’s traditional practices.
However, Chiminya remains undeterred, arguing that the High Court ruling is the latest development that legitimizes his role.
He asserts that the court’s decision grants him the authority to regulate and oversee all matters involving chiefs in the country.
He also claims to have been ordained by the spiritual ancestors of the once-mighty Rozvi Clan to revive its kingdom in Zimbabwe, a mission he pursued before receiving endorsement from the High Court.
Chiminya has since filed a Private Bill in Parliament seeking to trigger necessary amendments in the law to align with the landmark High Court ruling delivered by Justice Munangati-Manongwa.
“I was ordained to be the King of this land. I have powers to either appoint a Chief or to remove,” he said.
The High Court case, Timothy Chiminya vs. the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, took an unexpected turn when the legal counsel representing the Ministry of Local Government failed to attend court.
“Their lawyers were absent, even the Minister himself failed to come to court. I am my own defense counsel in this matter. The fact that they failed to attend court proceedings shows that I, King Mwenemutapa, have defeated them,” he added.
Emboldened by this ruling, Chiminya is now summoning Chief Chireya, who reportedly held a traditional ceremony during which he killed an elephant. Chiminya argued that killing elephants is taboo in Zimbabwean culture, and the chief should face a trial for his actions.
“I need the elephant skin, I need the tusk, and also to know who sent him to do that. Because when we are doing traditional ceremonies, we don’t kill elephants,” he said, adding that the chief would be summoned to answer the charges.
This move demonstrates Chiminya’s determination to assert his authority and fulfill his duties as the King of Mutapa.
The Kingdom of Mutapa, also known as the Mutapa Empire, has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It was a powerful and influential empire that played a significant role in the region’s trade and politics.
