mugabe’s 2000 “Terror Minister” Declared National Hero Amid Controversial Legacy
Chenhamo Chekazhe “Chen” Chimutengwende, a former cabinet minister and stalwart of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, has been declared a national hero following his death at the age of 81. His passing last Thursday marked the end of a political career that spanned over three decades, characterized by both his contributions to the liberation struggle and allegations of orchestrating violence against opposition members.
Chimutengwende’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Zimbabwe’s tumultuous 2000 election campaign, a period marred by political violence.Opposition members have long accused him of playing a central role in instigating attacks against the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC). One especially brutal incident occurred in Mashonaland Central, where Zanu PF activists, allegedly armed with machetes and iron bars, disrupted MDC rallies, leaving several supporters injured.
opposition politician Elliot Pfebve,who witnessed the attack,claimed that Chimutengwende had paid Zanu PF youths to sow chaos,describing the violence as premeditated. “Chimutengwende had paid Zanu PF youths to sow chaos, and the violence was premeditated,” Pfebve stated. Despite the arrests of several Zanu PF supporters involved in the attack, including Chimutengwende’s brother, the suspects were released on bail. This was allegedly due to interference from Chimutengwende and other senior party figures, including the late Border Gezi.
This incident marked the beginning of an era where Zanu PF activists faced little to no legal consequences for violence against opposition members. Chimutengwende’s role in these events has cast a long shadow over his legacy, even as he is celebrated for his contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
Beyond his involvement in election violence, Chimutengwende faced allegations of benefiting from government corruption. One notable example was his controversial participation in the 2007 RBZ Farm Mechanisation scheme, which provided him with a loan of nearly US$100,000 that was never repaid.
| Key Points About Chenhamo Chimutengwende |
|———————————————-|
| Role in 2000 Election Violence | Accused of orchestrating attacks on MDC supporters in Mashonaland Central. |
| Allegations of Corruption | Benefitted from the 2007 RBZ Farm Mechanisation Scheme with an unrepaid loan. |
| Political Career | Served as a cabinet minister and was a longstanding supporter of Robert Mugabe. |
| legacy | Celebrated for liberation struggle contributions but marred by controversy. |
Chimutengwende’s declaration as a national hero has reignited debates about his legacy. while some view him as a liberation hero, others remember him as a figure who played a pivotal role in suppressing opposition voices and perpetuating political violence.
As Zimbabwe reflects on his life and contributions,the contrasting narratives surrounding Chimutengwende’s legacy serve as a reminder of the complexities of the nation’s political history.
For more insights into Zimbabwe’s political landscape, explore our coverage of the 2000 election campaign and its lasting impact on the country’s democracy.
What are your thoughts on Chimutengwende’s legacy? Share your views in the comments below.
Legacy of a Contrast: Remembering Chenhamo Chimutengwende, Zanu PF’s “Terror Minister” and National Hero
Table of Contents
Chenhamo Chekazhe “Chen” Chimutengwende, a towering figure in Zimbabwe’s politics, has left a complex legacy. Adored by some for his role in the liberation struggle and loathed by others for his part in election violence, Chimutengwende’s status as a national hero has sparked heated debates about his controversial career. World Today News sat down with Professor communal violence allegations during the 2000 election campaign and his alleged corruption involvement in the 2007 RBZ farm Mechanisation scheme.
Chen’s Role in the Liberation Struggle
Professor Sinapolo: Yes, certainly. Chimutengwende joined the struggle against colonial rule at a young age. He was part of the generation that fought tirelessly for Zimbabwe’s independence. His commitment and bravery during this period are undeniable. He held various positions within the liberation movement, rising through the ranks to become a senior figure in Zanu PF post-independence.
The Dark Side: Allegations of Election Violence
Professor Sinapolo: Indeed, thes are serious allegations. Opposition members accuse Chimutengwende of playing a central role in orchestrating attacks against MDC supporters, particularly in Mashonaland Central. The incidents were brutal, with reports of activists armed with machetes and iron bars disrupting MDC rallies. Chimutengwende was allegedly involved in paying Zanu PF youths to sow chaos.
Why Were the Perpetrators Released?
Professor Sinapolo: Yes, this is one of the most controversial aspects of this period. The lack of legal consequences for those involved in these attacks sent a clear message that Zanu PF activists could act with impunity, further emboldening them to continue their violent tactics. This had a chilling effect on opposition movements and looked to have a direct impact on the democratic process.
Corruption Allegations: The RBZ Farm Mechanisation Scheme
professor Sinapolo: Yes, this was a controversial scheme where numerous Zanu PF figures, including Chimutengwende, received ample loans that were never repaid. His case involved a loan of nearly US$100,000, which was meant for farm mechanisation but was allegedly used for personal gain. This added to the public’s mistrust of Zanu PF and its líderes,further fuelling perceptions of corruption within the party.
Chen Chimutengwende: National Hero or Controversial Figure?
Professor Sinapolo: Indeed,it has.The decision has reignited debates about Chimutengwende’s legacy and the complex nature of Zimbabwe’s political history. While some view him as a liberation hero, others cannot overlook his alleged involvement in election violence and corruption. This dichotomy serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and controversies that Zimbabwe has faced over the years.
Join the conversation below. What are your thoughts on Chenhamo Chimutengwende’s legacy?