Hwindi President demands respect

Society Reporter

OUTSPOKEN Zimdancehall musician Bessel Parehwa, who is better-known by his stage name Hwindi President, is not a happy man.

The Chitungwiza-born chanter strongly believes that local fans are not giving him the respect that he deserves.

In an interview with The Sunday Mail Society, he bitterly complained that he is often overlooked and underestimated by local fans.

He said local fans judge him by his upbringing as opposed to talent.

“The fact that I was once a tout is working against me. Instead of judging me basing on talent, some of the fans see me as an disorganised former tout,” he said.

On the contrary, Hwindi President said he is both respected and revered by his fans who are based in the diaspora.

He said he is now concentrating more on international shows as opposed to local ones.

“On January 19, I performed in the United Kingdom. What I witnessed there made me shed a tear. Multitudes of fans were screaming and enjoying my music.”

“I am respected and appreciated in that part of the world,” he said.

After the United Kingdom show, he is set to perform in South Africa next week.

He says he is now focusing more on international shows.

“Naturally, one goes to a place where he or she is appreciated and respected the most. This year, my major aim is to perform in the diaspora. I am working towards achieving that goal,” he added.

The self-praising artiste said he is one of the few high-profile musicians who is taking a leading role in the fight against drug and substance abuse.