Sulu Stirs Political Debate

Dendera crooner Suluman Chimbetu has been a subject of political debate after he was recently seen welcoming student union leader Takudzwa Ngadziore from remand prison at the weekend.

The High Court last Friday ordered the release on bail of Ngadziore, the president of the Zimbabwe National Students Union held since September 18 for allegedly participating in an illegal gathering with intent to commit public violence.

And Sulu, a Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service ambassador, was among people who rallied behind Ngadziore.

Pictures and videos of Sulu in solidarity with the vibrant student leader have been awash on social media, attracting mixed reaction.

Sulu even posted the pictures on his social media accounts, a move that will certainly see him winning a new clientele at the same time ruffling feathers of those against the idea.

While he has been receiving praises from internet users aligned to opposition parties and activists, some believe he has irked those on ruling party’s corner and will certainly ‘pay the price’.

The Non Stop singer’s gesture has attracted the interests of prominent people, including journalists, political activists and social commentators.

“Pay attention to Sulu Chimbetu. I know that @Wamagaisa has always done so. Here he is seen with the @Zinasuzim president Takudzwa @ngadziore

“Don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in! We respect artists who are politically conscious! #NoToPoliticalPersecution.”

“There is power when folks who are ambassadors of State entities come out & show solidarity with the persecuted as Suluman Chimbetu did. Many folks are afraid to be seen with human rights defenders because of Mnangagwa’s vindictiveness. So Sulu’s solidarity must be applauded!” tweeted prominent journalist Hopewell Chin’ono.

“Respect. But he will be fired from being the brand ambassador. Zanu does not like anyone that goes against them,” wrote Mutukula Justice.

“Ndiyani asingazive kuti neg40 waive take take kubva nhasi handitereri nonsence yedendera rako.uzive futi machinja they pirate your music,” criticised another internet user.

Zimbabwean musicians have, of late, faced criticism for their failure to raise their voices in issues that are against government and the ruling party Zanu PF.

Sulu’s move has been likened to Nigerian artistes and others across the world who support public movements without fear of political persecution.

“The likes of Davido and Burnaboy do the same, not hypocrites like @jahprayzah. Aluta Continua Sulu,” wrote Tanaka Shonihwa. Nhau/Indaba