President Emmerson Mnangagwa publicly criticized his aides yesterday for playing what he deemed to be a “poor” recording of the national anthem. He later instructed them not to use the same recording at any events he attends.
The incident occurred during the official handover of vehicles to 100 chiefs in Harare. Mnangagwa expressed his displeasure with the anthem just as he began his speech at the ceremony.
He said, “Before we proceed, I must address the issue of the national anthem that was played earlier. That rendition was not acceptable. I do not know where it came from, but it must not be used again.”
While the reason for Mnangagwa’s dissatisfaction with the anthem recording remains unclear, sources suggested that it may have been an expression of frustration rather than a specific issue with the recording itself.
Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, could not be reached for comment, and Chief Director for Presidential Communications Anyway Mutambudzi referred inquiries to Charamba.
Despite the anthem incident, Mnangagwa presented 100 chiefs with Isuzu double-cab vehicles as part of efforts to improve their welfare and working conditions. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to providing medical insurance and funeral assistance to chiefs, headmen, and village heads.
The President highlighted various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of chiefs, including the construction and maintenance of access roads, electrification of their homes, provision of water and sanitation facilities, and agricultural support programs.
National Chief’s Council president Mtshane Khumalo expressed gratitude for the government’s support, stating that traditional leaders appreciated the vehicles, allowances, medical assistance, and borehole drilling provided to them.
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