Harare, Zimbabwe – November 13, 2024
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Reuben Marumahoko, a former Mashonaland West Minister of State and member of ZANU-PF’s Politburo, has been arrested on charges of fraud amounting to USD $37,950. His arrest has brought renewed attention to explosive allegations made in 2019 by his son, Simbarashe Marumahoko, accusing President Emmerson Mnangagwa of robbing the nation of USD $20 million in donor aid during the Cyclone Idai crisis.
Fraud Allegations Against Marumahoko
Marumahoko appeared before Magistrate Nyasha Marufu on Monday after being charged with selling agricultural inputs meant for the cultivation of 200 hectares under the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) joint venture program. Prosecutors allege that he planted only 46 hectares and sold the surplus inputs, prejudicing ARDA of $37,950. His wife, Andy Maririmba, was also arrested over the weekend in connection with the same allegations.
The court deferred a ruling on Marumahoko’s bail application, with the State arguing that he posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses. The prosecution further noted that Marumahoko delayed turning himself in after learning of the investigation.
Mnangagwa Accused of $20 Million Bribery Scandal
The arrest has reignited scrutiny over allegations made by Simbarashe Marumahoko in 2019, when he exposed President Mnangagwa’s alleged role in a USD $20 million bribery scandal during the Cyclone Idai disaster.
In a leaked audio recording from that time, Reuben Marumahoko is heard furiously criticizing Mnangagwa for his actions. In the audio, Marumahoko reportedly screams:
“Mnangagwa sold the country. What kind of president is that? Don’t talk f***all about Mnangagwa; he is an idiot. He is not ZANU PF. Our musangano of ZANU PF has collapsed because of him.”
The clip also features an unnamed man, as Marumahoko tells him to continue recording the allegations. The accusations claim that Mnangagwa demanded a $20 million bribe from donors before allowing food aid to enter Zimbabwe, leaving millions of cyclone victims in dire need.
Political Fallout
The timing of Marumahoko’s arrest has raised questions about its connection to his son’s whistleblowing. Critics argue that the government is targeting the family to suppress dissent and divert attention from corruption allegations at the highest levels of power.
“This arrest is not a coincidence. It’s a calculated move to silence those who dare expose the regime’s corruption,” said political commentator Dr. Tendai Mukwenha.
The allegations against Mnangagwa have also deepened divisions within ZANU-PF. Many party members are reportedly frustrated with his leadership, with some accusing him of betraying the principles of the liberation movement.
Public Reaction and Demands for Accountability
The public has responded with outrage on social media, demanding an independent investigation into both Marumahoko’s fraud charges and the allegations against Mnangagwa. Citizens are questioning the government’s priorities, with many accusing the ruling party of shielding corrupt leaders while prosecuting smaller offenses.
As the court considers Marumahoko’s bail application, the nation waits to see whether these revelations will lead to broader accountability or further entrench political impunity.
This is a developing story.