Tinmac backs Winky D

Philemon Jambaya

Zanu PF secretary for youth, who is also Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation, Tino Machakaire has thrown his weight behind Winky D.

This comes on the backdrop of some Zanu PF affiliate groups and individuals trolling the king of Zimdancehall.

In a post on his Twitter page, Machakaire said artists should be allowed to express themselves through music.

“I have seen, with growing concern, the video circulating on social media. It is quite unfortunate that the video wasn't shared in its entirety. However, all I am saying is let us not fight artists (Winky D).

“Let us respect their art and respect their opinions so long it’s within their constitutional rights. President ED Mnangagwa is saying no to violence, yes to peace. Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo and tisu vene vayo,” Machakaire wrote.

The Wedza Arts Festival benefactor said if artists have any grievances, they should approach his office and any other relevant offices.

“If he, or any other artist or youth out there has any challenges or grievances they need addressed, our doors are always open to listen to them.

“I know most young people are unemployed and this is a bone of contention with most of our youth.

“In Harare alone for example roads in most of our residential locations have deteriorated, City of Harare is failing to provide clean and safe water, traffic lights are not working, stadiums are down, failure to develop working spaces eg Coca Cola. We have identified the problems and we need solutions to these problems which is why I am saying, come let us talk,” he added.

Machakaire said he appreciated young people who are trying to earn a living despite the hardships the country is currently facing.

He added that the country had a lot of brilliant minds capable of coming up with creative and innovative solutions to our problems should people put their heads together.

“The moment we start fighting each other, it distracts us from our purpose and instead of moving forward, we are stuck fighting each other when we could expend that energy and creativity into solving our grievances. That is all I am saying,” added the youthful Deputy Minister.