Ambassador Ishmael made the call at an inter-dominational gathering at Reliance House in Harare over a week ago. “Pray for Oliver Mtukudzi with regards to his health,” he told congregants.
Asked after the service what his word meant, Ambassador Ishmael said there was nothing more he could say. “With prophecy we have to be very careful,” he said. “It is incorrect for me to give more information publicly before I talk to the intended destination of the prophecy. I will visit Tuku in the near future and talk to him.”
The prophet and his camp last week said they had booked an appointment with the musician. “He has not been given a date by the musician but the appointment has been requested,” said one of his assistants.
Over the past few years, Tuku has been rumoured to be ill several times. In other instances, some have even suggested that the superstar had died and this, coupled with his slender figure, has made it common for speculation to be rife.
Mtukudzi publicist, Shepherd Mutamba, on Friday said he was unaware of the prophecy nor the appointment made by the prophet. Mutamba said Mtukudzi was out of the country on a tour and was expected home yesterday.
“How can people just go around saying so and so needs prayer?” Mutamba asked. “I have not heard about the prophecy or appointment with Tuku, but he will be back in the country tomorrow. He will be the best person to comment.”
Mutamba said Mtukudzi was healthy and coming to perform at Castle Tankard scheduled for yesterday. He is also expected to perform at Harare International Festival of the Arts tonight.
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Show organisers unfazed by the prophecy
On Saturday, Mtukudzi is expected to perform at Sports Diner International alongside Allan Chimbetu as one of his collaborative shows with sungura artists that have seen him performing at a number of venues across the capital.
Organisers of the show said they were not worried about the prophecy concerning the musician’s health, adding that they were optimistic, the show would be exciting since Tuku last performed at the venue about a decade ago.
“We are happy to host Tuku. The last time we saw him on stage, he was energetic and we are certain he will deliver a similar show on Saturday. “We have roped in Chimbetu and his son Douglas to add variety to the show.”
