Unforgiving Chiwenga spoils Mary’s Christmas

By Tapiwa Gokoma| As the twinkling lights of Harare’s festive decor begin to illuminate the bustling city, for many, Christmas is a time of joy, community gatherings, and family traditions. Yet for Mary Chiwenga, the former wife of Zimbabwe’s Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, this season carries a heavy weight. Mary is facing the Christmas without her children, who are spending the holiday with their unforgiving father.

Mary is now perceived by many as a helpless woman grappling with a life of emotional and psychological distress under the weight of her husband’s political authority. While Vice President Chiwenga stands tall in the public eye, his wife’s narrative unfolds in the whispers of the streets and the concerned tones of local activists, where discussions grow around her deteriorating circumstances.

Even some churches are saying people must pray for Mary who continue to suffer in the hands of his ruthless exhusband. Some are even calling for for help as she is agonizing.

This separation has ignited discussions within women’s organizations and local churches, expressing solidarity with Mary while criticizing the system that has led to her current grief.

Despite her efforts, she has been unable to see her children, who are currently in the custody of her powerful and politically connected husband.

Her arm and leg was amputed this year but his unforgiving husband continue to cause more pain by denying her acesss to her kids.

The couple’s marriage has been marred by controversy, with Mary Chiwenga alleging abuse and mistreatment.

Chiwenga’s plight has sparked widespread sympathy. Many have taken to social media to express their support for her, using hashtags such as #JusticeForMaryChiwenga.

Some members of the community have been vocal about their disappointment in Vice President Chiwenga, calling for him to engage more constructively with Mary and to prioritize the well-being of their children.

“Children deserve stability and love from both parents,” asserts a representative from a certain women organisation who refused to be mentioned. “During these holidays, they should not be caught in political games but rather be surrounded by love.”

This collective voice adds to a growing sentiment among activists calling for greater accountability among public figures in relation to their familial duties.