Zimpapers Logo

Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
HEADMAN Hodela Foromela Chauke, an influential traditional leader in Beitbridge District, has died after a long battle with high blood pressure.
Tshifhumila, as locals affectionately called him, died at Beitbridge district hospital on Wednesday night. He was 85.

Headman Chauke was appointed on August 1, 1963, and in 1977 he was arrested for accommodating freedom fighters in his area of jurisdiction.

His son, who is also the family spokesperson, Thompson Chauke, said his father, whose area fell under Chief Stauze, had been unwell for a very long time.

“The family and the community have lost a leader and father figure. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow. We have started preparing for his burial which will be held at Mugaladivha village on Tuesday morning next week” he said.

Zanu-PF Matabeleland South’s acting provincial chairman, Rabelani Choeni, described the headman’s death as a great loss.

“This is a blow to people in the district and those in Beitbridge West constituency where the government is still to appoint successors to the late Chief Stauze and three other headmen. We have lost a great pillar of strength that will be difficult to replace,” he said.

“He was a vocal leader who helped the traditional leaders to be highly recognised by both the communities and government. We will forever miss him and he has left a vacuum in Beitbridge District”.

He said many people had been relying on him for guidance and advice following the death of Chief Pariti Stauze in September 2006.

Choeni also called on the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing to speed up the appointment of the successors to the late Chief Stauze and three headmen; Makhado, Siyoka and Mabidi.

“The community of Beitbridge is now like a flock of sheep without a shepherd. It’s sad that we continue to lose a number of our wise elders,” said Choeni.

Headman Chauke is survived by eight children and several grandchildren.