By Mvelo Mthiyane Zondo
ONE of the young traditional leaders from Beitbridge District, Chief Tshitaudze who is the provincial chiefs’ chairperson paid tribute to the late Chief Marupi describing him as a humble leader, a friend to all and a young upcoming leader who was willing to learn from the elders.
“Initially, when i was installed as Chief Tshitaudze in 2013, I was shocked and surprised to find young Chiefs like my friend, the late Chief Marupi, Chief Bidi, Chief Mpini and myself who were the youngest.
“To me, being a Chief was meant for the elderly and not for young ones like us. However, as a young chiefs we could relate and the late Marupi would always call me towards month ends.”
“Most interesting calls were ‘Hello bafo, isingenile yini? Libond yini? Yimalini? Pho iUSA lona kungene elinganani?
“OK kutsho sengizangena edolobheni nge Monday ngiyedobha impala zabantwana. (Hello colleague, how far our allowances? Have they been deposited into our accounts? OK, I will go to town on Monday for shopping,” said Chief Tshitaudze as he brought laughter to thousands of mourners who had gathered to pay their last respect to their Chief.
Speaking during the same platform, the President of National Chiefs’ Council, Chief Mtshana Khumalo called for family unity as they choose a replacement for the late Chief Marupi.
“The Government will not come down here to impose the Chief, instead the family has the sole mandate to choose their own, being guided by their family tree diagram,” said Chief Khumalo.
Thabang Nare from Mbizimbili Village who said he was a close friend to the late Chief Marupi had this to say:
“I have lost a friend, brother and my true leader who did not rule with an iron fist. He loved his beverages and socialising with his subjects. He was very generous and kind,” said Nare.
The Dibilashaba born Chief died in Harare last month.
He was 28.He died at Health Point hospital in Harare after a short illness.
Born Oaheng Nare on 26 February 1996, Chief Marupi succeeded his father, Lawrence Nare who died in 2008.
He was installed in 2012 as a minor awaiting to officially take over in 2014 when he turned 18.
He is survived by his wife Rorisang Tlou.
New Ziana
