HARARE – Controversial cleric Prophet Passion Java has claimed that he was behind the cancellation of Winky D’s annual Crossover gig at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), as he wanted to teach Zimbabwean youths respect for elders.
Winky D failed to host the gig, held on 31 December every year, with reports that the prestigious venue had been taken by businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who reportedly paid $245 000 for a Seventh Day Adventist Church event.
This was despite the fact that Winky’s management team secured the venue as early as May 2024 and made all necessary arrangements for the show.
In an interview with DJ Sparxx and Zigo, Java claimed that he was one of the masterminds behind that decision, as he accused Winky D of disrespecting President Emmerson Mnangagwa during his last New Year’s Eve concert.
“Winky D anofarisa and problem yekuti ane influence. Winky D akanorova speech rake re boxing riya riya ndokubva atanga kudisser President. ‘Wakabvuta chigaro’ and stuff. On his level? Kana imiwo does that make sense?
“It doesn’t make sense. Ndokubva ndarova video ndikati varikukanya number one vanhu varikumupa venue. Number 2, vanhu varikumuplayer kuradio. Handizozivi kuti vanonzi vanani ivava,” Java explained.
The controversial Man of God claimed that the decision had been made with the intention of teaching young Zimbabweans respect for their elders.
“Vanhu vanoplayer ivava vanoita problem because isusu we want next generation ikure uine culture yemuZimbabwe yekuziva kuti number one hautuke vakuru.
“Mukuru even akanzi haana kuuya kumba haumubvunze kuti ‘Makarara kupi?’ Mukuru, mukuru. Hautuke mukuru. Hau addresse mukuru. You’re not in that position. You can’t diss even iri politics,” Java claimed.
Winky D’s lawyers announced last month that the musician had been hung out to dry by Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), who had taken an advance booking in May for his gig in December.
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.
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.
