By Arts Correspondent
Harare – Winky D’s highly anticipated crossover show at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on December 31, 2024, has been thrown into disarray after the venue was reportedly reassigned to another event.
Sources allege the move was orchestrated by gospel musician Everton Mlalazi for a private dinner and concert.
Mlalazi, who is closely linked to business magnate Kuda Tagwirei, an ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is believed to have secured the venue despite Winky D having booked it as earlier in May 2024.
An insider revealed that Winky D, who had already made extensive preparations for his “Cross Over” show, has effectively been elbowed out.
“The venue has been booked, and someone has paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to use it,” said the source.
“It’s a private dinner event with gospel music, exclusive to invited guests. It’s not for profit.”
Winky D’s legal team, Tsunga Law International, last weekend issued a statement addressing the setback.
“Winky D remains enthusiastic about delivering an exceptional crossover performance at HICC on December 31, 2024,” the statement read.
However, Tsunga Law International, noted, that “the venue owners have chosen to prioritise another event on the same date, which unfortunately disregards the agreement established with Winky D.”
This development has reignited speculation that Winky D, known for his socially conscious music and criticism of Zimbabwe’s elite, is once again a target of political and business interests.
Fans online have accused powerful figures of deliberately undermining the artist’s efforts to connect with his audience.
“Regrettably, these unexpected external circumstances threaten to disrupt what has been highly anticipated by both Winky D and his loyal fans,” the statement read.
The legal team acknowledged the emotional toll the situation has taken on the artist and his followers, emphasizing Winky D’s commitment to his audience.
Meanwhile, Rainbow Tourism Group spokesperson Pride Khumbula attempted to downplay the controversy, stating, “We are currently in cordial discussions with Winky D’s team. We are therefore surprised by the reports circulating.”
However, insiders have dismissed Khumbula’s remarks as a public relations move aimed at deflecting backlash.
The sources claim Mlalazi’s event was prioritized at the expense of Winky D’s crossover concert.
According to these sources, Gateway Stream Media, the venue’s booking arm, offered Winky D three alternatives: a different date, an alternative venue, or a refund. Winky D reportedly declined all three options.
“A legal battle over Gateway Stream Media’s contractual breach is inevitable,” said the source.
“Gateway Stream Media is fully prepared to face the legal route,” added the source.
Fans have expressed outrage, flooding social media with messages of support for Winky D and condemning the apparent power play.
