By A Correspondent

The grave of the late Madzibaba Godfrey Nzira at Chitungwiza Cemetery has sparked controversy after it was revealed that a path leading to his burial site was constructed over other graves.

Nzira, a well-known spiritual leader, is buried at the cemetery, and his grave stands out prominently, drawing the attention of visitors. However, the path allegedly built by his church members and family has caused outrage, as it appears to have desecrated several graves in the process.

One local resident expressed their disapproval, stating, “That’s inhumane. We should respect the dead. Those with relatives buried here don’t even have a clue where their relative’s remains are buried now.” Another resident also condemned the actions, remarking, “This is not allowed. In our culture, desecrating a grave is taboo.”

Concerns have also been raised about the reasoning behind the relocation of other graves to make way for the path. “We don’t know what’s so special about this person to the extent of displacing other graves,” said another individual.

Criticism has also been directed at the local authorities for permitting the construction. “The town council is answerable. How can they allow something like this to happen? Relatives of the deceased must sue them,” one resident added.

In response to the outcry, Chitungwiza Municipality spokesperson Mr. Tafadzwa Kachiko confirmed that the local authority had launched an investigation into the matter. “Desecration of graves is in violation of council by-laws, and we are looking into the matter so that we ascertain what transpired so that those responsible for this are held accountable,” Kachiko stated.

Madzibaba Nzira, who passed away in 2011, had been released a few months earlier after serving a 20-year sentence for rape.