Chief Seke
By Dickson Bandera
Chief Seke, born Stanley Chimanikire, has publicly apologised and retracted political slogans he recently chanted at a community gathering, following a High Court ruling that found his actions violated the Constitution.
The judgement, delivered by Justice Samuel Deme, came after citizen Esther Vongai Zimudzi filed a case arguing that the chief’s behaviour infringed on her political rights under Section 67 of the Constitution. She said the chanting of partisan slogans by a traditional leader compromised the principle of neutrality expected of custodians of communal affairs.
Justice Deme ruled that the chief’s conduct breached Section 281(2)(c) of the Constitution, which explicitly prohibits traditional leaders from acting in a partisan manner, furthering the interests of any political party, or violating the rights of citizens. The court ordered Chimanikire to issue a retraction within seven days.
In a written statement, Chief Seke complied with the order, acknowledging his actions were unconstitutional.
“I, Stanley Chimanikire, in my capacity as Chief Seke, and in terms of the Order of Justice Deme in case No. HCH 3233/24, hereby retract the political slogans I chanted while addressing a gathering in my official capacity.
“I acknowledge that the chanting of slogans associated with any political party is inconsistent with the provisions of section 281(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which prohibit traditional leaders from acting in a partisan manner or furthering the interests of any political party.
“I therefore withdraw the said slogans and reaffirm my commitment to performing my duties as Chief Seke in a manner that is impartial, non-partisan, and in full compliance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Zimbabwe.”
The ruling is seen as significant in reinforcing constitutional boundaries for traditional leaders, who play an influential role in rural communities. Zimbabwe’s Constitution emphasises that chiefs, headmen, and other traditional authorities must remain politically neutral to safeguard democracy and protect citizens from coercion or undue influence.
Cases involving chiefs and partisan politics have in recent years drawn controversy, with critics accusing some traditional leaders of siding with political parties during election periods. Civil society organisations have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of constitutional provisions to preserve the integrity of traditional institutions.
By publicly retracting his slogans, Chief Seke has set a precedent that underscores the judiciary’s role in ensuring accountability.
The case also highlights growing awareness among citizens about their political rights, with Zimudzi’s legal action showing that individuals can hold traditional leaders accountable for constitutional violations.
