United STATES-based Zimbabwean Chimurenga music guru,
Thomas ‘Mukanya’ Mapfumo has approached the High Court seeking over $1,2 million
from a local journalist for allegedly defaming him following the publication of
an article claiming he was broke and had been evicted from his lodgings over a
$10 000 debt.
Mapfumo, popularly known as Mukanya, filed a $1,250 million
litigation through his lawyers, Venturas and Samkange and the scribe, Tawanda
Marwizi, is yet to respond to the litigation.
In his declaration, Mapfumo said the article was false and
defamatory as it portrayed him as a musician of no integrity.
“The plaintiff (Mapfumo) is an American-based Zimbabwean
and renowned international musician with a good reputation and impeccable
character. He has received numerous recognitions, accolades and awards
throughout the years for his good work and for being a good representative of
Zimbabwe and its citizens. He has thousands if not millions of followers
throughout the world,” his lawyers said in the lawsuit.
“The article was false and defamatory. The article shows
that the plaintiff is a musician of no integrity and is dishonest. This article
was published and read by many people throughout the world, with some readers
even contacting the plaintiff for verification, clarity and further details.”
Mapfumo said he had taken issue with the journalist for
failing to verify the facts with a view to establish the truthfulness of the
matter.
“Defendant published the article without even verifying the
accuracy and the truthfulness of the statement with the plaintiff. The
statement was designed to humiliate and injure plaintiff’s reputation in the
eyes of his supporters and the world at large,” he said, adding he does not owe
anyone any amount, but rather he is owed by his promoters.
“The statement was false and defamatory. Plaintiff does not
owe anyone the amount alleged or any amount for that matter. On the contrary,
plaintiff is the one owed by the promoters’ large sums of money. The statement
was malicious and baseless. Plaintiff is, of good standing in society, with
good reputation. Plaintiff is, therefore, entitled to claim damages as set out
in the summons.” Newsday
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