Amid Winky D’s protestations that he is being shortchanged by the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) for his annual crossover gig on the 31st of December, it has emerged that the prestigious venue was taken by controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who paid $245 000 for a Seventh Day Adventist Church event.
Winky D’s lawyers announced last week that the musician was being hung out to dry by Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), who had taken an advance booking in May for his gig in December.
Despite acceptance of that down payment, it had since emerged that the venue was prioritising another event set for the same night.
According to Zimlive, Tagwirei’s Bridging Gaps Foundation had instead dangled a lucrative carrot in front of the custodians of the venue, booking it on behalf of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
“The SDAs usually hold a Crossover Service at Glamis Arena Stadium,” a source revealed to Zimlive. “It was Rainbow which invited Tagwirei to use the HICC, not the other way round.
“Rainbow insisted that the arrangement with Winky D was not financially beneficial as it involved revenue share, whereas they wanted an outright payment for use of the venue.
“They negotiated an arrangement where Tagwirei pays US$245,000 for the HICC and 200 rooms for five days.”
Last week, Winky D’s legal representatives revealed that they had felt shortchanged by the HICC, despite efforts to resolve the situation.
“Our client has issued the following statement regarding the Winky D Crossover Show of 31 December, 2024. Winky D remains enthusiastic about delivering an exceptional crossover performance at HICC on December 31, 2024, a venue his fans are very familiar with.
“His management team secured the venue as early as May 2024 and made all necessary arrangements for the show.
“Winky D values the connection he has with his fans and is dedicated to providing a memorable performance. He has invested significant effort into preparing for this event, reflecting his commitment to bringing joy to his audience.
“However, the venue owners have chosen to prioritize another event on the same date, which unfortunately disregards the agreement established with Winky D,” the statement read.
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