By Chipo Gudhe

In a shocking turn of events at the funeral of Redcliff Mayor Clayton Masiyatsva at Torwood Hall yesterday, Gweru Mayor Martin Chivoko ignited controversy by unleashing a tirade of accusations, claiming that the late city father had fallen victim to witchcraft forces coveting the deceased position.

The funeral, initially intended as a solemn occasion to pay respects to the departed mayor, took an unexpected turn when Mayor Chivoko took to the podium and alleged that Mayor Masiyatsva had been bewitched by individuals harboring ambitions to usurp his role. The startling claims sent shockwaves through the gathered mourners, many of whom were caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone.

“We benefit nothing from these positions, do not bewitch a person for the mayoral position. We earn a paltry ZW138 000 only there is no reason for us to kill each other. If Masiyatsva’s death was caused by a person I say your death is also coming. Yes Masiyatsva has left the position for you but you will also die,” says Chivoko.

Chivoko’s accusations were met with a mix of clapping and disbelief from the audience, as attendees struggled to comprehend the motives behind such a bold and contentious statement during a funeral service.

The late Mayor Masiyatsva, who passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, was remembered as a dedicated public servant with a strong commitment to the development of Redcliff.