Confusion over John Nkomo death reports

By Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe was plunged into a whirlwind of speculation after several unnamed family members had claimed that 78 year old Vice President John Nkomo had died quietly while surrounded by his family in Bulawayo.

But late Saturday evening other Nkomo family members issued furious denials claiming the Vice President was alive. Nkomo revealed in 2009 that he had been diagnosed with cancer and for the last three months was put on sick leave.

If Nkomo is still alive this will be the fourth false rumour about his death in recent months. His family, while confirming he was unwell, said they were distressed by the speculation.

Last year in September Nkomo scoffed at “Harare’s rumour mill” which claimed he had died. “This can only be the work of Western-sponsored foreign newspapers that carried the story,” a frail looking Nkomo told a rally in Matabeleland.

Speaking in Ndebele Nkomo said “I will and can only die when the Lord wants to take my life away. In fact, I will be here (on earth) for the next Presidential election next year so prepare for that.”

Nkomo has been in and out of hospital and regularly flown to South Africa for treatment. His son Jabulani has had to constantly deny rumours of his death.