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Threats won’t stop us – Cde Fatso

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OUTSTANDING comedian Comrade Fatso has said he will not be deterred by threats and harassment by security agents over his politically charged satirical jokes in a country in which freedom of expression appears to be expensive.

OUTSTANDING comedian Comrade Fatso has said he will not be deterred by threats and harassment by security agents over his politically charged satirical jokes in a country in which freedom of expression appears to be expensive.

BY WINSTONE ANTONIO

Speaking to NewsDay, Comrade Fatso said government and its security agents needed to appreciate that a comedian’s job was to offer lighter moments over serious issues and not meant to attack politicians.

“I really appreciate the support we get from Zimbabweans for our work. Comedy is a great way to make people laugh and think at the same time, I will make people laugh while talking about burning political issues,” Comrade Fatso said.

Comrade Fatso Comrade Fatso

He said last year was tough for the comedy industry as a result of a depressed economy.

“I recognise a lot of potential this year as visionary comedians generate more video content via Facebook and WhatsApp while others spread their message to the region through new comedy productions on Zambezi Magic channel,” he said.

Comrade Fatso, however, called for the opening of airwaves saying some creative work failed to blossom because of limited and controlled broadcasting.

“Comedy needs more sponsors willing to support shows, festivals and new ideas. There is also need for real independent television stations to broadcast our content which Zimbabwe Broadcast Cooperation is failing to air,” he said.

The comedian has been invited to be part of the star-studded line-up of performers at a two-day Coalition Festival of Creativity from March 4 to 6 in New Delhi, India.

At the festival, Comrade Fatso is expected to share the stage with leading Indian stand-up comedians Daniel Fernandes, Kaneez Surka and Gursimran Khamba as well as 60 other international artists and speakers.

He said he appreciated the recognition.

“My main talk at the festival is about how to get away with humour, which will look at my politically subversive Zambezi News show and my career as a stand-up comedian. Performing there will also give me an opportunity to share the power of comedy and satire from a Zimbabwean perspective.”

Comrade Fatso was last year nominated for Best African Comedian at the African Entertainment Awards in United States of America while his Zambezi News show was nominated for the Freedom of Expression Awards in the United Kingdom.