Former Norton MP Temba Mliswa is facing backlash for his condolence message following the death of former ZBCTV Breakfast News anchor Zvikomborero Sibanda.
Sibanda passed away on Thursday morning in Bulawayo after a prolonged battle with fibroid-related complications. Mliswa expressed his sorrow on social media, sharing that he had known Sibanda since the 2000s and had an “amazing relationship” with her before she got married. He also stated that they remained friends after her marriage and that he valued her advice, especially in media matters.
However, his message has sparked significant criticism online, with many questioning the appropriateness of mentioning their past relationship in such a sensitive context. Many social media users found his remarks disrespectful, especially considering that Sibanda was married.
Critics voiced their disapproval, with one user, @TaperaEmmanuel, asking, “Why mention you once having an ‘amazing relationship’ with her?” @desmondsharukai labeled the message as disrespectful, suggesting that the husband might not have been aware of the past relationship. Others, like @DrK3819, questioned the need to reveal such personal details, pointing out that it was inappropriate and insensitive to the family during their time of mourning.
In response to the uproar, @Pachisolife simply asked, “Is it necessary to talk about the ‘relationship’ now?” while @baba_bulawayo criticized the message, saying, “Have some shame. It feels like you want people to know you once had her.”
Mliswa’s tribute has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding his comments, with many feeling that the message detracted from the intended expression of condolence.
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