Tocky Vibes criticises Zim army in Zvitori Nani

The song, titled ‘Zvitori Nani (Zimbabwe Army Diss)’ also criticises President and commander in chief Emmerson Mnangagwa. Sung in Shona, the song had garnered more than 40 000 views on YouTube by Monday.

"That song is intended for poor people, the disadvantaged and those who seek alms on the streets,” Tocky Vibes told Music In Africa. “Children, the disabled and the blind living on the streets could not escape the violence, especially when teargas was used to disperse civilians during the protests. These people were affected since they had no place to hide. These are the people I was referring to in the song."

The translated song opens with the following lyrics:

I don’t have time to praise soldiers any more
They beat us every day and kill their own while saying we’ve been sent by our boss
Now I’m dissing soldiers
You should refuse to be deployed
I’ve come with fire to burn the soldiers.

Such lyrics could land Tocky Vibes in trouble with Zimbabwe's authorities. When asked whether he was afraid of the possible consequences, he said: "Our song is not political. The army is for the people and it’s not for any political party. So our message in the song is that even if political parties don’t agree among themselves, the army must be there to protect civilians.

“People should not be armed because we have a national army whose mandate is to protect us from harm. So once more, my song is not political and whoever wants to link my song along political lines, it’s up to them.”

Tocky Vibes refused to name the producer of the song. "I'd rather face the music alone should any trouble come my way," he said.

Germany-based music journalist and critic Plot Mhako said: "I think the song reflects the reality on the ground and boldly echoes the cries of most citizens who do not have a voice. It’s a great song and pokes at the security apparatus’ conscience.”

Late last year, Zimdancehall singer Winky D stirred controversy with the release of ‘Kasong Kejecha’, which blames Mnangagwa's ZANU-PF government for the current economic crisis. The song sides with MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa who is synonymous with the words “tozvidira jecha". The term translates to "pouring sand", for example in a person's meal as a form of sabotage. After the song's release, Winky D was pelted with empty cans and beer bottles while preforming in Kwekwe in central Zimbabwe on Christmas Eve. The artist has since cancelled his remaining shows and gone into hiding after a group of ZANU-PF activists reportedly visited his home during last week's stayaway.

Mhako said Tocky Vibes could face similar treatment as his colleague. "Regarding his safety, I think it’s tricky and there cannot be a guarantee, considering that Winky D is reportedly in hiding. I think Tocky was well aware of the possible backlash but he followed his inner conviction and the voice of reason,” he said

What sparked the latest violence in Zimbabwe?

Two weeks ago, Mnangagwa announced a sharp increase in fuel prices, which saw petrol rise to $3.31 from $1.24/litre, making it among the most expensive in the world. This in turn spurred increases in basic products and services such bread, sugar and bus fares. The increase was condemned by opposition parties and civil society groups across Zimbabwe. It also prompted the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions to call for a national strike.

The initially planned peaceful stayaway turned into looting and the destruction of property in some areas where clashes with the police and army took place. On Tuesday, the government instructed telecoms providers to shut down the Internet, which until Monday was still reportedly off. Twelve people have been killed since the violence began, according to media reports.