Legal dispute casts shadow over Tsvangirai estate

Zim Now Writer

The estate of the late Zimbabwean opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, is facing financial strain due to multiple legal battles.

A recent court ruling awarded US$204 800 to Moreprecision Muzadzi, who claimed he was hired by Tsvangirai to facilitate coalition talks with other opposition parties before the 2013 elections. Muzadzi also alleged assault at Tsvangirai’s residence.

This settlement comes on top of potential claims from domestic workers employed by Tsvangirai, who are seeking US$150 000 in unpaid salaries and benefits.

The estate’s ability to meet these obligations is further complicated by the ongoing efforts to distribute the assets. Efforts by the High Court to obtain a distribution plan from the estate’s executors have been unsuccessful since 2018.

Adding another layer of complexity, the family reportedly wants to prioritise settling the estate of the late Susan Tsvangirai, who predeceased her husband.

These financial strains come amidst ongoing disputes regarding the estate’s true value. The inventory filed by Tsvangirai's surviving spouse, Elizabeth Macheka, in 2018, listed a house in Harare, six vehicles, and cattle. Some family members have, however, raised concerns that this inventory may not be comprehensive.

It is believed that some 45 cattle that are in Kwekwe and others in Buhera form part of the estate.

The vehicles were listed as: Mercedes Benz S350 (ABI 6365), Mercedes Benz GL (ADV 9705), Toyota Prado (ADQ 1536), Isuzu KB300 (ACG 6324), Isuzu KB250 (ACB 8661) and Isuzu KB250 (ACB 8559).