Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
THE battle for the Katerere Chieftainship has escalated to the Supreme Court, with the dethroned chief, Mr Alexio Chinongwa Nyamhute, challenging a High Court ruling that stripped him of his traditional powers last year.
Mr Nyamhute is represented by Mutare lawyer, Mr Tawanda Kanengoni.
However, the Supreme Court struck the matter off the roll yesterday (Thursday), citing an invalid notice of appeal from Mr Nyamhute.
Three Supreme Court judges – Justices Alfas Chitakunye, Tendayi Uchena, and Felistus Chatukuta – concurred, effectively upholding the High Court’s decision declaring Mr Nyamhute’s appointment unlawful.
The court now awaits a fresh notice of appeal from Mr Nyamhute, who is challenging a ruling made by Mutare High Court Judge, Justice Isaac Muzenda. The ruling declared Mr Nyamhute’s appointment as Chief Katerere unlawful, invalid, and a legal nullity, citing violations of the Katerere dynasty’s succession principles and customs.
Mr Nyamhute assumed the chieftainship following the passing of the substantive Chief Katerere in 2017.
However, his appointment was contested by Mr Pius Mupunwa, a local village head and member of the Dembetembe royal house.
Mr Mupunwa argued that the appointment disregarded their tradition and infringed upon his lineage’s rightful claim to the throne.
He was represented by Mutare lawyer, Mr Chris Ndlovu of Gonese and Ndlovu Legal Practitioners.
“This court nullifies Nyamhute’s appointment and declared the chieftainship vacant. The Minister of Local Government and Public Works should convene a fresh meeting of the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs responsible for the Katerere community to reconsider and resolve the succession dispute in accordance with traditional customs,” ruled Justice Muzenda.
