Political Reporter

In a stunning turn of events, it has come to light that former Zimbabwean politician, Saviour Kasukuwere allegedly fell victim to the promises of a Manicaland-based traditional healer who assured him a spot on the presidential ballot paper during the recently concluded elections.

The traditional healer, only identified as Chirimambowa, is reported to have claimed that he could influence the courts to allow Kasukwere to contest in the just-ended elections.

A source who preferred anonymity revealed to the Harare Post that Kasukuwere, who is currently based in South Africa, was represented at Chirimambowa's shrine by his close lieutenant, Washington Musvaire.

According to the source, Chirimambowa informed Musvaire that Kasukuwere needed to perform a series of rituals to become eligible for the elections. These rituals allegedly included purchasing a 2-metre red and white cloth, which was to be cut into strips and tied with five knots on each strip.

The same source added that Chirimambowa instructed Kasukuwere to abstain from sexual activity for 14 days and to use bath water from the Save River for seven days.

The traditional healer further advised that Kasukuwere should wrap himself in white and red cloth every night, walk around his yard naked at midnight, and recite specific incantations while facing the east.

The source revealed that after performing these rituals, Kasukuwere reportedly expressed his frustration as his candidacy was not approved by the courts. He is said to be demanding a refund of the thousands of dollars he paid to Chirimambowa for the promised outcome.

However, Chirimambowa is purportedly claiming that Kasukuwere failed to properly perform the rituals, citing that he engaged in sexual intercourse within the prescribed 14-day abstinence period.

The source further claimed that Kasukuwere's failure to contest the just-ended elections has caused tension in his camp as some of his supporters, including notable figures like Ray Kaukonde, are rumoured to be regretting their backing of Kasukuwere's candidature.

According to the source, Kaukonde and others reportedly expressed disappointment in Kasukuwere's inability to return to Zimbabwe and face ZANU-PF.

Meanwhile, the Kasukuwere camp remains silent on the matter. However, Chirimambowa's alleged involvement in these events raises questions about the role of traditional healers in modern politics.