Harare – Former Finance Minister and Zanu PF politburo member, Simba Makoni, has dismissed as utter fabrication reports circulating on social media claiming that he had died. The rumours, which spread rapidly yesterday, prompted widespread concern and confusion before being debunked by Makoni himself and his close associates.
Speaking from his farm in Headlands, the 74-year-old Makoni chuckled at the reports, assuring the nation that he is in good health. “As you can tell I am very much alive,” he said. “The key message is you have called me and talked to me. I do not know where that rumour started from but I am now living in the rural areas and I am very healthy.”
The false reports had suggested that Makoni had died suddenly near Rusape, prompting swift reactions from friends and colleagues.
Muchadeyi Masunda, AMH advisory board of trustees chairperson, confirmed that he had personally contacted Makoni to verify the claims. “I had to telephone and speak to Dr Makoni himself. I am pleased to confirm that he is alive and well,” Masunda said.
Masunda further clarified that the “Simba Makoni” who had passed away was, in fact, the younger brother of Steve “Dhongi” Makoni, the musician renowned for his popular songs such as Sabhuku Nedhongi, Zvachonyana, and Chakafukidza Dzimba Matenga.
Dr. Ibbo Mandaza also vehemently denied the rumours in a statement issued today, stating, “Simba Makoni is alive and well. This is mischief, and not for the first time.”
This is not the first time that rumours of Makoni’s death have surfaced, and his supporters have called on social media users to exercise greater caution and responsibility when sharing unverified information.
Simba Makoni is a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s political and economic landscape. He was appointed as agriculture deputy minister by the late former President Robert Mugabe at the age of 30 in 1980. He subsequently held other Cabinet posts, including industry and economic development.
Makoni also served as the Southern Africa Development Community (Sadc) executive secretary between 1983 and 1993, in addition to holding other executive positions across the African continent.
In February 2008, Makoni challenged Mugabe in the race for the presidency, further cementing his place in Zimbabwe’s political history.
