Staff Writer
Gospel songstress — Fungisai Zvakavapano Mashavave — has reached out to her friend and fellow musician Selmor Mtukudzi to apologise to her stepmother Daisy Mtukudzi as part of efforts to bridge the gap between them.
Fungisai who holds a degree in Sociology proffered an apology as the solution to mend relations between superstar Oliver Mtukudzi’s widow Daisy and her daughter Selmor.
According to Selmor she had not been allowed at Pakare Paye Arts Centre built by her father since his death in January 2019.
That long tiff played out at the weekend when Selmor broke down on stage just minutes into her performance.
Selmor could not hold back her tears telling music lovers that she had had enough of being treated “as an outcast of the Mtukudzi family by her stepmother”.
Selmor who is married to Tendai Manatsa was initially not on the performance line up at the inaugural Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts before a serious backlash on social media which forced organisers to include her on the line up.
The whole acrimonious drama surrounding Daisy and Selmor dampened what could have been an otherwise well thought out festival.
Selmor and Sandra are Mtukudzi’s daughters from his first marriage to Melody Murape with whom he wedded at Rufaro Stadium before a sellout crowd.
And regrettably so, Fungisai took to her official Facebook page to give advice to Selmor to try and iron out the rift.
“For these 4 specific Sociological reasons I would have chosen to apologize and SHINE. For example, ‘mhamha thank you for the opportunity. I am sorry nezvatakakanganisa tiri pwere, tiregerereiwo’,” she wrote before explaining further on theories of apology.
“The Social Exchange Theory suggests that social interactions are based on exchanges of resources, including emotional support, approval, and tangible benefits. In this context, apologizing can be seen as an investment in social capital, where you’re offering an apology (a resource) in anticipation of receiving a favor (a benefit) in return.
“Power Dynamics: By apologizing, you may be temporarily surrendering power to the other person, acknowledging their influence or control over the situation. This can create a sense of obligation or reciprocity, increasing the likelihood of them granting your wish.
“Impression Management: Apologizing can be a strategic move to manage the other person’s impression of you, showcasing your willingness to cooperate, compromise, and maintain social harmony. This can lead to increased social credibility and favorability.
“Rational Choice Theory: apologizing can be seen as a calculated decision, weighing the potential benefits (gaining favor) against the potential costs (loss of dignity, integrity, or self-respect,” she told Selmor.
At the risk of facing another backlash from fans, Fungisai jokingly said: “Nditukei henyu, but I would have apologized even if I didn’t mean it. I regret that I did not consider giving mumwe wangu strategy especially because emotions do take over usingazvitarisire.”
About Author
