Zimbabwean Newspaper Apologises For “Killing” Mnangagwa In Birthday Ad
By A Correspondent
In a significant communication mishap, the Army’s recent advert congratulating President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his 82nd birthday turned into a source of controversy due to a glaring typo.
The advert, which was published in this week’s *Financial Gazette*, included the jarring phrase, “MAY HIS SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.”
This wording led to widespread outrage and confusion among readers, who interpreted it as an unwelcome suggestion regarding the president’s health.
The blunder has sparked a wave of criticism, prompting the *Daily News* to issue a formal apology on behalf of its sister publication.
“We apologise profusely to President Mnangagwa, his family, the government and ZDF for the anguish that the inadvertent mistake caused, ” part of the statement read, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana expressed his discontent over the incident on X, remarking, “WHY DO NEWSPAPERS ALWAYS WEAR AN APOLOJERSEY IN HIDING? Page 3, top right corner.”
His comments underscore the frustration felt within the government regarding media mistakes, especially those that could be interpreted as politically insensitive.
The fallout from this incident highlights the delicate relationship between the media and the government in Zimbabwe, where missteps can quickly escalate into political scandals.
Observers are closely watching how both the *Financial Gazette* and government officials will navigate the aftermath of this embarrassing episode.
