Government officials will, today, convene a mediation meeting to resolve a standoff between Chief Murinye and businessman Philemon Mutangiri over the opening of Riverton Academy-Murinye, a new private school established in the Murinye communal lands of Masvingo.
The conflict erupted after Chief Murinye, born Elias Munodawafa, blocked the access road leading to the academy, arguing that he had not authorised the school’s construction. The newly established institution, which is set to open this term, has already enrolled about 1 000 students and offers boarding at US$150 per term.
Mutangiri, a native of nearby Machingura Village, constructed the academy on what he says is his ancestral land. Tensions escalated, yesterday, when the Chief used his Isuzu truck to prevent vehicles carrying parents and students from entering the school. Police officers from Muchakata Police Station had to intervene before the Chief eventually removed his vehicle.
Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, has since called for a reconciliation meeting, stressing the Government’s commitment to expanding access to education.
“As the Second Republic, we want to ensure that all learners have access to education, and we welcome those who assist the Government in this goal,” he said.
Mutangiri maintains that he possesses all the necessary documentation to operate the school. He said he invested in road rehabilitation and electricity extensions in Murinye including at the Chief’s homestead, in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra “nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”.
However, Chief Murinye insists that proper traditional protocols were ignored.
“He showed contempt by building a school in a communal area without my permission. This is my land, and he should have sought approval from me and other traditional leaders. He must adhere to the law,” he argued.
