Staff Reporter
Former Deputy Prime Minister Dr Thokozani Khupe was forced into the centre of a social media storm on Thursday after false reports claiming she had died went viral across online platforms.
The rumours, which spread rapidly on X and Facebook, alleged that the veteran politician had succumbed to cancer, triggering confusion and concern among supporters and members of the public. However, the claims were later debunked after journalists and political figures verified that Dr Khupe was alive.
Online broadcaster Change Radio, which had initially shared the incorrect information, later issued a public apology admitting the report was false.
“Change Radio sincerely apologises for an earlier post which incorrectly reported that former Deputy Prime Minister and MDC Vice President Senator Dr Thokozani Khupe had passed away,” the platform said in a statement.
The broadcaster added that it had confirmed with Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) officials that Khupe was alive.
According to the platform, the confusion stemmed from reports surrounding the death of former MDC member Thokozani Hove, who reportedly died after battling cancer.
False death announcements not only damage credibility but also cause emotional distress to relatives, friends and political associates.
By Friday morning, Dr Khupe had not publicly commented on the false reports.
Khupe remains one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable female politicians, having served as Deputy Prime Minister during the Government of National Unity and later leading breakaway factions of the MDC before joining the Citizens Coalition for Change.
