Garikai Mafirakureva

Masvingo – News reaching The Mirror indicate that Chief Bere, born Phineas Tafirei (85) whose chieftainship was recently resuscitated has died.

The family is said to be keeping the death secret until the burial day tomorrow in accordance with its tradition. It is not clear when exactly the chief died but sources said it has been for some days now.

It is generally understood that President Emmerson Mnangagwa is of the Bere Clan.

Efforts to get a comment from the Minister of State for Masvingo, Ezra Chadzamira were futile. Family spokesperson David Masomere confirmed the death but he said that he did not have details.

Chief Bere was installed in April 2019 when the chieftanship was resuscitated after 96 years.

 “Yes, I can confirm that Chief Bere has died. I cannot give you further details because traditionally we are not allowed to talk about the chief’s funeral. All the details will be given at his burial tomorrow,” said Masomere.   

However, unconfirmed reports said the Chief died due to suspected poisoning during a beer drink as the chieftainship wrangle rages on.  Chief Bere’s installation was mired in controversy after it went ahead despite a High Court interdict obtained by the members of the Bere clan who were disputing Tafirei’s ascension to the throne.