- Denial: ZANU PF-aligned musician DJ Masomere has vehemently denied allegations of seizing mines.
- Accusation: Rumors circulated that he used political connections to displace small-scale miners.
- Defense: Masomere claims his mining interests are legitimate and accuses rivals of a smear campaign.
- Context: The incident highlights the chaotic nature of the mining sector where politics often interferes.
- Exclusive: Masomere spoke exclusively to local media to clear his name.
In a developing story that exposes the murky intersection of entertainment, politics, and mining in Zimbabwe, popular ZANU PF-aligned DJ Masomere has come out fighting against allegations of ‘mine-grabbing.’ Reports had surfaced on social media accusing the musician of using his proximity to ruling party elites to forcibly take over gold claims from artisanal miners in the Midlands province. The accusations touched a raw nerve in a country where ‘machete gangs’ and political patronage often dictate ownership of mineral wealth.
Speaking exclusively this afternoon, DJ Masomere dismissed the claims as ‘jealousy and malice’ from detractors who envy his success. ‘I applied for my papers like everyone else. Just because I support the President does not mean I am a thief,’ he stated. He produced documents which he claims prove his legal title to the disputed claims. However, representatives of the small-scale miners insist that they were threatened with violence and forced to vacate the area last week.
This dispute is emblematic of a wider issue within ZANU PF, where the Youth League is increasingly being accused of using the party’s name to muscle into economic sectors. The party leadership has yet to comment on this specific case, but pressure is mounting to rein in rogue elements ahead of the party conference.
Timeline
- 09:00 AM: Social media posts circulate accusing Masomere of violence at a mine.
- 11:00 AM: Small-scale miners’ association issues a distress call.
- 01:00 PM: DJ Masomere grants an interview denying all charges.
- 02:30 PM: Documents of his mining claims are leaked/shown to press.
Key Players
- DJ Masomere: Musician and ZANU PF supporter.
- Small-Scale Miners: The alleged victims of displacement.
- Ministry of Mines: The authority responsible for title disputes.
- ZANU PF Youth League: The political structure involved.
