Controversy Erupts,Headman Demands US$100 at Funeral
In a shocking turn of events, Headman Burton Nerupiri of Gutu has sparked outrage and raised questions about the conduct of traditional leaders after demanding a hefty sum of US$100 during the funeral of the late Brigadier Charles Gumbo’s wife, Grace. The incident has left mourners dissatisfied and highlighted concerns over potential repression faced by ordinary villagers.
During the funeral proceedings, Headman Nerupiri made an unexpected demand, insisting that he required the entire hind leg of the slaughtered animal as his share, which he later shared with Village Head David Mahove. This unexpected claim left the mourners with an insufficient amount of relish, leading to disappointment and frustration among the attendees.
Adding further fuel to the controversy, Headman Nerupiri is now demanding a significant sum of US$100 from the funeral organizers, citing his alleged exclusion from speaking at the ceremony as the reason. It is worth noting that the funeral of Grace Gumbo, the wife of the respected and accomplished Brigadier Charles Gumbo, was fully funded by the State, making Headman Nerupiri’s demands all the more contentious.
Brigadier Charles Gumbo, known as one of Zimbabwe’s most successful commanders post-independence, particularly for his role in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) campaign, had earned widespread respect and admiration throughout the country. His wife’s funeral was expected to be a solemn occasion, paying tribute to her life and offering condolences to the grieving family. However, the actions of Headman Nerupiri have shifted the focus to the conduct of traditional leaders and the potential repression faced by ordinary villagers.
This incident has raised concerns among the public regarding the abuse of power by traditional leaders, even when dealing with respected figures like Brigadier Gumbo. Many are questioning the extent of such repression and whether it extends beyond high-profile individuals to affect ordinary villagers who may be less equipped to address such issues.
