Tensions Resurface in Mtukudzi Family as Selmor and Daisy Plan Separate Shows to Honour Oliver Mtukudzi

After last year’s highly publicised drama surrounding the Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMIFA), tensions within the Mtukudzi family appear far from resolved. New reports reveal that Selmor Mtukudzi, daughter of the late music legend, and his widow, Daisy Mtukudzi, are set to host two separate events just a day apart, each aiming to celebrate Oliver Mtukudzi’s enduring legacy.

The discord first erupted during the 2024 OMIFA, when Selmor was controversially excluded from the initial performer lineup. This omission brought to light long-simmering family tensions, including serious allegations of abuse made by Selmor and her sister Sandra against Daisy. The rift dominated headlines and exposed fractures in what was once a united front celebrating the late Tuku’s immense contribution to Zimbabwean music.

Fast forward one year, and the family remains divided. Selmor is scheduled to hold her event, Tozeza Tuku Trial Run, on September 21—exactly one day after the official OMIFA, which Daisy and her team are organising for September 20.

Speaking to H-Metro, Daisy affirmed that preparations for OMIFA were progressing despite funding challenges. “We are proceeding with the programme as planned, on September 20, and this is the only way I can remember my late husband in the company of his fans,” she said. Daisy appealed to supporters to come and celebrate the festival, describing it as an annual occasion meant to honour Oliver Mtukudzi’s memory.

When asked if Selmor’s event could be perceived as a competing show, Daisy dismissed the notion, expressing frustration at the ongoing family drama. “I don’t want to comment much on that because people will end up criticising me on social media, as was the case last year,” she explained. “To me, it’s just gossip. When it comes to drama queens and kings, I am not there to control them. A lot has happened and is in the public domain ever since Tuku’s death. I have learnt to ignore some of these lunatics.”

Daisy also revealed feeling overwhelmed by the conflict and expressed a wish that Oliver Mtukudzi were still alive to manage the situation. “He had a special way of whipping people in line, but now that he is gone, we can only celebrate his life. On that note, OMIFA 2025 is going ahead.”

On the other side, Evvone Mudzingwa, assisting Selmor with organising Tozeza Tuku Trial Run, emphasised that the event is independent of Daisy and OMIFA. “This event has nothing to do with Daisy; it’s Selmor’s event where she is celebrating her father’s legacy. I am here solely to assist Selmor. I am a service provider managing the event,” Mudzingwa clarified.

As both events approach, fans and followers are left watching closely to see how the Mtukudzi family navigates these ongoing tensions while honouring the memory of one of Zimbabwe’s most beloved musical icons. Despite the strained relationships, it is clear that Oliver Mtukudzi’s legacy continues to inspire celebrations, even if those commemorations are happening on separate stages.