Harare – Brita Masalethulini, former Miss Malaika, has spoken out following the tragic death of her sister, Cordelia Masalethulini, a veteran broadcast journalist. In an exclusive interview, Brita described Cordelia as her “best friend” and unwavering supporter, dismissing any rumours of discord between the siblings.
Cordelia, aged 45, was discovered dead on January 5th, her body found partially unclothed along the Borrowdale–Domboshava Road. Fungai Quintone Tawengwa, Cordelia’s boyfriend, has been identified as the prime suspect in the case and is currently being held in remand prison.
The murder has struck a devastating blow to the Masalethulini family, who are still grieving the loss of their mother, who passed away just five months prior. Brita, visibly heartbroken, shared her grief, stating that the loss has left her utterly shattered.
“Cordelia was my best friend,” Brita recounted. “We grew up together on the farm, two free-spirited children who never left each other’s side.” She explained that their close bond only experienced physical distance when Cordelia pursued her studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Brita fondly remembered Cordelia’s unwavering support and encouragement. “She was my sidekick. Whenever I felt anxious or scared, she was always there telling me I could do it.”
Acknowledging that her sister faced personal challenges, Brita emphasised that their bond remained unbreakable. “We allowed each other space, but we were always there to catch each other when one fell.”
Recalling the last time she saw Cordelia alive, Brita said, “She came home on Saturday night while I was cooking and hugged me. On Sunday morning she left for church wearing a white skirt — and she never came back.”
The family is now desperately seeking justice for Cordelia. “We are broken. There are no words to describe this pain. We are still mourning our mother and now this has hit us like a ton of bricks. I can’t sleep,” Brita lamented.
Brita recounted the horror of the crime scene. “No one deserves to die like that. Her skirt was down to her knees, her shirt pulled up, her head covered in blood. She had no underwear and no shoes.” She added, “She was not even wearing the white skirt she left home in. I had so many questions, but no answers.”
Brita revealed that she witnessed Cordelia’s boyfriend, Fungai Quinton Tawengwa, being questioned by police as he was reportedly the last person seen with her the night before her death. The family is currently awaiting CCTV footage from the surrounding areas and is also exploring the possibility of a hit-and-run incident.
Brita described Cordelia as an intelligent, strong-willed, and selfless individual. “She always spoke life into people. She pushed others to be better. Now that voice is gone.”
As police investigations continue, the family is clinging to hope that justice will be served. The community mourns the loss of Cordelia Masalethulini, a respected journalist and cherished member of her family.
Follow @MyZimbabweNews
