November 28, 2024
Chipanga barred from Carnival over gay links
Celebrated gospel artist Charles Chipanga with The Potter’s House bishop, TD Jakes.
A CLOUD of uncertainty hovers over the performance of celebrated gospel artist Charles Chipanga at the upcoming Harare International Carnival as the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) due to his alleged affiliation with the gay community.
During his performances at gay communities, Chipanga was quoted saying “people should embrace the whole community”.
From September 1 -9, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority will be hosting the Harare International Carnival where a host of local and international artists have been invited to perform including Chipanga.
Other artists invited to perform at the Carnival include Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Andy Muridzo,Jah Prayzah, Killer T, Sir Calaz, Soul Jah Love, Baba naMai Charamba and Sulumani Chimbetu.
Insiders, say despite Chipanga being one of the crowds favourite, the state was not keen to have him as part of the performing artists following his performances at gay functions in Zimbabwe before he left for the United State of America last year.
“He had become a permanent feature at their (gays) functions and it is a well-known fact the President (Robert Mugabe) and government have a long history of antigay statements, hence were not keen to have him perform at the carnival an event that has the blessing of the President,” an insider close to the plans said.
Chipanga has not performed in Zimbabwe in over a year.
Chipanga – one of the most recognised gospel artists in Zimbabwe also has close ties with the country’s main opposition party Movement for Democratic Change’s (MDC) Vice President Nelson Chamisa. His ties with the MDC could be another reason why he is being linked to the demonstrations which the opposition has been supporting. Chamisa is also a lawyer and a pastor.
Carnival is a concept involving street festivities which take part in many countries. Originally it was held by Roman Catholics during Lent in Roman Catholic countries, but the concept has spread the world over to include other countries outside religious circles.
Two years ago, the street party (carnival) and parade occurred in Zimbabwe on Africa Day. The route of the parade was from Africa Unity Square, proceeding along Jason Moyo Avenue, turning left at Rotten Row Road, then right into Robert Mugabe Way, then straight into Glamis Arena at the Exhibition Park.
The route this year has been changed slightly as marching will begin from Simon Muzenda Street through Jason Moyo Avenue to the Civic Centre Grounds where South African and local musicians.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority may attract three million people when they host the Harare International Carnival street party on the last day if the euphoria and bumper crowds being witnessed at block parties and other activities are anything to go by.
Activities to promote the event are being held daily in different areas to inform and educate people about the event that is meant to unite people through music and dance. – artsvibes.com
Charles having his collar correctly adjusted by his wife Namatayi.
