Harare – Exiled music icon Thomas Mapfumo has spoken out about the alleged persecution he faced at the hands of the late Robert Mugabe’s government, revealing that his decision to flee Zimbabwe in 2004 was driven by a relentless campaign against him.
Speaking to Standard Style from his United States base, Mapfumo has demanded the return of his five vehicles, which were seized by police in 2000. He claims the accusations against him of buying stolen BMWs, which were cars for sale in Zimbabwe, were unfounded and politically motivated, The Standard has reported.
“When they impounded my cars, the police claimed I had bought stolen cars. Surprisingly, George Shugo, who sold the cars to me, was never arrested. They seemed intent on punishing me for my criticism of Zanu PF,” Mapfumo said.
Mapfumo insists that the individuals who sold him the cars are still free in Zimbabwe, making his arrest unjustified. He alleges that the government’s actions were a direct result of his outspoken criticism of the Mugabe regime.
“Due to continued persecution, I left Zimbabwe. My associate, Cuthbert Chirombo, was called to take the cars because no one had come forward to claim ownership. Chirombo went to see the cars and arranged to pick them up a week later. Unfortunately, when he returned, the cars were missing,” Mapfumo said.
The musician claims that the cars were simply parked at Morris Depot, awaiting their rightful owner to claim them. However, he alleges that the government never intended to return the vehicles, using the incident as a pretext to harass him.
“I never stole cars, and no one was ever charged. I want my cars back, and the case is with my lawyers. My lawyer, Warara, said they want me to return to Zimbabwe and present my case. That could be a trap by Mnangagwa’s regime,” Mapfumo said.
The then Robert Mugabe regime and Zanu PF supporters have used the vehicle issue to claim that Mapfumo fled Zimbabwe not due to political persecution, but rather to escape a criminal case. However, Mapfumo insists that the accusations against him were politically motivated.
“The cars were simply parked at Morris Depot. Due to continued persecution, I left Zimbabwe,” Mapfumo said.
Mapfumo’s case highlights a pattern of intimidation and harassment used by the Mugabe regime against those who dared to criticize its policies. The musician’s experience is not unique, as many other Zimbabweans fled the country during that era, fearing for their safety and freedom.
“I want my cars back. My lawyer, Warara, said they want me to return to Zimbabwe and present my case. That could be a trap by Mnangagwa’s regime,” Mapfumo said.
While Mapfumo’s case is specific to his personal experience, it underscores the broader context of political persecution under the Mugabe regime.
The musician’s demand for the return of his vehicles serves as a reminder of the injustices faced by many Zimbabweans during that era.
Mapfumo’s story is a testament to the resilience of those who stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of adversity. His continued fight for justice and his demand for the return of his vehicles are a powerful symbol of the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions.
