Leaked Audio Implicates Deputy Minister Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa in Attempted Takeover of Widow’s Property
Harare, Zimbabwe – September 19, 2024
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A leaked audio recording has surfaced, implicating Hon. MP Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, in an alleged attempt to take over a bar owned by a widow, Mrs. Kandawasvika, in Retreat Farm. The audio, verified by sources close to the matter, appears to show Mnangagwa discussing plans to forcibly take control of the property with the current tenant, Mr. Kutapira.
The audio, which has already sparked public outrage, reveals a series of conversations in which Mnangagwa discusses his intentions to assume control of the bar. According to reports, Mr. Kutapira, who rents the bar from Mrs. Kandawasvika, was allegedly pressured by Mnangagwa to vacate the premises, despite lacking any legal claim or documentation to support such a move.
Leaked Audio Transcript: A Disturbing Conversation.
In the leaked recording, Mnangagwa can be heard questioning Mr. Kutapira about his operations at the bar:
Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa: “Were you told that I’m coming to use my office? Is this Kutapira?”
Kutapira: “Is it the MP?”
Mnangagwa: “It is Hon Mafidi Mnangagwa.”
Later in the conversation, Mnangagwa makes it clear that he intends to take full control of the property:
Mnangagwa: “But then it won’t work for there to be a nightclub. The property now belongs to Zanu PF. I have paid for everything.”
He goes on to instruct Kutapira to document all his expenses and prepare to vacate the premises:
Mnangagwa: “I want you to write all your expenses, everything that you paid there. I don’t want to remove anything… but the property now belongs to Mnangagwa, Mohadi, and Chiwenga.”
Mnangagwa also implies that the bar and the surrounding property will be renovated and re-allocated for other uses, asserting that the building will no longer be operated as a nightclub.
Widow Fights Back: A Legal Battle Begins
Mrs. Kandawasvika, the rightful owner of the bar, has taken legal action in response to the attempted takeover. Despite the clear abuse of power indicated in the leaked audio, Mnangagwa and his associates appear to be leveraging political influence to claim the property.
The widow has reportedly filed a formal complaint with the Waterfalls Police Station, producing valid paperwork proving her ownership of the bar. However, given the political nature of the conflict, there is growing concern for her safety.
Public Outrage and Calls for Action
The release of the audio has triggered widespread anger among the public, with many accusing Mnangagwa of abusing his position as a government official to seize private property. Human rights activists and opposition figures have called for an immediate investigation into the matter.
The widow’s legal team is also urging the public to stand in solidarity with Mrs. Kandawasvika, demanding that justice be served and that the alleged misuse of power be exposed.
Potential Political Fallout
This revelation comes at a critical time for Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF. The involvement of top government officials, including Mnangagwa, in the alleged property seizure could have far-reaching political consequences. The mention of key figures such as Vice President Kembo Mohadi and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in the audio adds another layer of complexity to the controversy.
As the story develops, there are concerns that Mrs. Kandawasvika and her supporters may face further intimidation or harassment. Many are calling for independent oversight to ensure her safety and the protection of her property rights.
Next Steps
It remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the leaked audio and whether any formal investigations will be initiated against Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa. For now, Mrs. Kandawasvika and her legal team are focusing on building a case to protect her property from the alleged illegal takeover.
The public continues to demand transparency, accountability, and justice in this rapidly evolving case.- ZimEye
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more information comes to light.