Interim Warriors coach Norman has hailed his charges’ fighting spirit after they came back from two goals down to beat Zambia and progress to the final of the four-nations tournament in Malawi.
Zimbabwe struggled in the early stages of the game and saw themselves trailing 2-0 in the 23rd minute, courtesy of goals from Stopilla Sunzu and Clatous Chama.
But Mapeza’s troops fought back and restored parity through goals by Macauley Bonne and Walter Musona.
Speaking to journalists after the game, Mapeza was naturally happy with his charges’ fighting spirit.
“They (Zambia) scored two early goals, and it was just lack of concentration on our part,” said the gaffer.
“But credit to the boys, they kept believing in themselves, we crawled back and scored two goals.
“In the second half, I think we were the better team. I also think we could have won the game in normal time because we got a lot of set piece opportunities.
“But at the end of the day, I will give credit to my boys, they worked so hard. Look, this is a team we assembled some few days ago, so well-done to the boys,” added Mapeza.
The Warriors will play either Kenya or Malawi in the final on Wednesday.
Dear Young People Globally we’re facing a plastic pollution crisis at a scale we have never seen.
But the impacts of this crisis are not felt equally. From the “production” to the “disposal” of plastic, *the most vulnerable communities often experience the worst effects of pollution { Africa is concentrated with these vulnerable communities }
As Young People we can ensure a plastic free environment by advocating for sustainable policies from grassroots levels that will provide consistent removal of plastic waste from our hotspot areas.
As young people we can also indulge into developing skills in green industries, starting or joining green business aimed at turning the tide of plastic pollution into a lucrative enterprise. Most important, we must be willing TO PARTICIPATE in the implementation of strategies to combat plastic pollution, not forgetting that WE ARE AT THE CENTER OF VULNERABILITY!
Please be Responsible
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Disruptive behavior from student teachers at the formerly renowned “Gango” College of Excellence caused chaos during the ZITCOSA athletics competition held at Victoria High.
The event came to a halt temporarily when students stormed the track, chanting loudly.
The disturbance was instigated by a Masvingo Teachers’ College athlete who falsely claimed second place in the 10km race.
Law enforcement officers intervened, but the conduct of these aspiring educators fell short of expectations, especially considering their role as hosts.
Numerous educators from different institutions criticized Masvingo for their unsportsmanlike behavior.”They should be disqualified for this unacceptable conduct,” remarked one lecturer.
“There must be a standard of decency upheld at the college.”The annual tournament, which gathers teachers’ colleges from across Zimbabwe, was marred by this regrettable incident.
Unforgettable Night at Enzo Ishall’s Show in Kwekwe: A Symphony of Music, Emotion, and Euphoria
By Showbiz Reporter | In the tranquil early hours of a Sunday morning, Kwekwe, the hometown of Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, became the epicenter of a momentous event that will linger in the memories of its witnesses for years to come. As Enzo Ishall concluded his highly anticipated performance at 4 AM, an extraordinary occurrence unfolded, immortalized by Enzo himself as an indelible experience.
The climax of Enzo Ishall’s show transcended mere musical performance, evolving into a profound emotional journey for those in attendance. Enzo reflected on the event, stating, “What happened in Kwekwe this morning at the end of the show at 4 AM can never be forgotten.” This remark has ignited a whirlwind of discussion and speculation, with many attempting to grasp the essence of what made that night transcend ordinary concert experiences.
Social media has been flooded with images and videos of concert-goers enveloped in what appears to be a state of unparalleled euphoria, with faces lit by stage lights and expressions that suggest a collective ascent to “cloud 9, if not cloud 11.” These visuals offer a snapshot of the electric atmosphere that defined the evening, showcasing the powerful connection between artist and audience.
Beyond the auditory delight, the event marked a significant emotional milestone for attendees, characterized by a shared feeling of unity and togetherness. Enzo Ishall’s emotive performance, coupled with the audience’s collective energy, created a night where music transcended its usual confines, forging a unique bond among participants.
The ripple effects of the concert have extended far into the digital realm, with social media abuzz with reflective and appreciative posts from those fortunate enough to have been part of such a transformative experience. Both critics and fans have praised Enzo Ishall not only for his musical talent but also for his capacity to invoke such deep emotional resonance within his audience.
As Kwekwe reminisces about the euphoric night, it’s evident that what happened at the culmination of Enzo Ishall’s performance has not only raised the bar for live shows in Zimbabwe but also imprinted itself on the hearts and minds of those present. It was a moment of artistic and emotional transcendence, a powerful demonstration of music’s ability to unite, elevate, and inspire.
In a poignant address, opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has raised the alarm about the rapid and alarming environmental degradation plaguing Zimbabwe.
Chamisa’s remarks come in the wake of his recent observation of extensive deforestation and environmental destruction, particularly evident during a drive past Boterekwa.
Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating state of the country’s natural landscapes, Chamisa emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address this pressing issue.
“I witnessed the alarming extent of environmental degradation and deforestation as I drove past Boterekwa. This left me deeply concerned,” Chamisa remarked, reflecting on the profound impact of witnessing firsthand the environmental devastation unfolding across Zimbabwe.
His observation underscores the severity of the situation, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem that extends far beyond Boterekwa alone.Chamisa lamented the stark contrast to Zimbabwe’s once lush and verdant landscapes, noting the drastic decline in greenery even within arid regions.
This stark transformation, he emphasized, serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for concerted efforts to reverse the tide of environmental degradation and safeguard the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
“Sadly, this scenario isn’t unique to this area alone; it’s a widespread issue across our beloved Zimbabwe,” Chamisa acknowledged, drawing attention to the pervasive nature of environmental degradation gripping the country.
His acknowledgment of the scale of the problem underscores the magnitude of the challenge facing Zimbabwe in confronting the environmental crisis.Against the backdrop of looming threats posed by climate change, Chamisa called for a unified approach to restore, preserve, and enhance Zimbabwe’s natural environment. He stressed the imperative of ushering in a green revolution aimed at realizing a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for all Zimbabweans.
“We must unite efforts to restore, preserve, and improve our natural environment, not just for ourselves but for the generations to come,” Chamisa urged, emphasizing the collective responsibility to safeguard Zimbabwe’s ecological heritage.
His call to action resonates with the need for immediate and decisive measures to mitigate the impacts of environmental degradation and climate change.
Chamisa’s impassioned plea for environmental conservation and climate action encapsulates a broader commitment to fostering sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of present and future generations.
His vision for a Green Zimbabwe reflects a shared aspiration to prioritize environmental stewardship and build a resilient and prosperous nation.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the urgent challenges posed by environmental degradation, Chamisa’s advocacy serves as a rallying cry for renewed commitment and action in pursuit of a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
His message resonates with the imperative of collective action and underscores the critical importance of preserving Zimbabwe’s natural heritage for the benefit of all.
Disruptive behavior from student teachers at the formerly renowned “Gango” College of Excellence caused chaos during the ZITCOSA athletics competition held at Victoria High.
The event came to a halt temporarily when students stormed the track, chanting loudly.
The disturbance was instigated by a Masvingo Teachers’ College athlete who falsely claimed second place in the 10km race.
Law enforcement officers intervened, but the conduct of these aspiring educators fell short of expectations, especially considering their role as hosts.
Numerous educators from different institutions criticized Masvingo for their unsportsmanlike behavior.”They should be disqualified for this unacceptable conduct,” remarked one lecturer.
“There must be a standard of decency upheld at the college.”The annual tournament, which gathers teachers’ colleges from across Zimbabwe, was marred by this regrettable incident.
Political Reporter- The Emmerson Mnagagwa-led Zanu PF government is initiating plans to overhaul the electoral system, notably by transferring voter registration duties from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to the Civil Registry Department.
These proposed changes, intended to streamline electoral processes, are raising concerns about potential manipulation by the ruling ZANU PF party.
Under the proposed amendments, which would necessitate changes to the Constitution, the Registrar-General’s Office would assume all voter registration responsibilities.
First-time national identity card applicants would automatically be registered as voters, while deceased individuals would promptly be removed from the voters’ roll upon the issuance of a death certificate.
Moreover, there are discussions about stripping ZEC of its delimitation responsibilities, suggesting a return to a prior system where an independent commission handled delineating electoral boundaries.
These moves, reportedly inspired by recommendations from Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators, are stirring controversy, particularly as they seem to consolidate power in the hands of the ruling party.
Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi disclosed ongoing consultations with stakeholders, indicating that the proposed amendments would be addressed in the upcoming 10th Parliament session. He emphasized the necessity of constitutional amendments to effectuate these changes, underlining concerns about the current division of responsibilities between ZEC and the Registrar-General’s Office.
Opposition legislators, advocating for the restoration of voter registration duties to the Registrar-General’s Office, cited historical precedence before 2009.
Minister Ziyambi highlighted how the opposition’s push to transfer these responsibilities to ZEC during the Inclusive Government era was seen as an attempt to undermine the then-Registrar-General Tobaiwa Mudede.
The proposed amendments, if enacted, could significantly reshape Zimbabwe’s electoral landscape. By centralizing voter registration under the Civil Registry Department and potentially removing delimitation tasks from ZEC, critics fear a concentration of power favoring ZANU PF’s interests.
These changes could have far-reaching implications for the integrity and fairness of future elections. As consultations proceed, stakeholders are closely monitoring the developments, cognizant of the potential impact on electoral transparency and accountability.
With the RG’s Office issuing over a million civil documents in recent years, the government’s move to shift voter registration responsibilities underscores a broader strategy to exert control over electoral processes, raising concerns about democratic principles and the independence of electoral institutions.
By Political Reporter- The Zanu PF government has initiated steps to amend the constitution, signalling a shift in the country’s political landscape.
According to reports from state media sources, the ruling party is pursuing amendments aimed at restructuring the roles of key institutions, particularly the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), to overhaul electoral processes.
Zanu PF’s intention to redistribute responsibilities from ZEC to the Civil Registry Department marks a pivotal move to enhance efficiency in electoral management.
However, critics argue that such changes could pave the way for the manipulation of election outcomes, as Zanu PF has been accused of utilizing electoral bodies to sway results in its favour.
Furthermore, there are plans to reconsider the allocation of delimitation duties, suggesting a return to a previous system where an independent commission handled electoral boundary delineation.
This proposed shift seeks to address administrative redundancies within ZEC and streamline electoral procedures.
Under the envisaged amendments, voter registration processes would be centralized under the Registrar-General’s Office.
This move, coupled with the automatic registration of first-time national identity card applicants as voters, aims to streamline the registration process while ensuring accuracy in voter rolls.
Moreover, the proposed amendments aim to expedite the removal of deceased individuals from the voters’ roll, following the issuance of death certificates.
Such measures are purportedly aimed at bolstering transparency and integrity in electoral processes. These proposed changes, influenced by recommendations from Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators, underscore a contentious political landscape.
The amendments, which require constitutional revisions, have sparked debate and raised concerns about potential ramifications for democratic principles.
The evolving political landscape in Zimbabwe underscores the complexities and tensions surrounding efforts to reform electoral systems and consolidate power.
As discussions around constitutional amendments unfold, the implications for the country’s democratic trajectory remain a subject of intense scrutiny. -State Media
A 24-year-old Beitbridge man raped his neighbour’s 5-year-old daughter in the presence of his drunk wife and later bought the minor some mangoes to buy her silence.
For his misdeeds, the man, who could not be named on ethical reasons, was handed a punitive 20-year jail sentence.
According to a statement by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident happened on 23 December 2023 on the same bed his wife slept.
Said NPA, “On the 23rd of December 2023, the complainant’s mother left the complainant in the custody of the accused person’s wife, for a couple of days as she had to go to work out of town.
“The accused person got home around midnight on the same night and found the complainant sleeping on the same bed as his wife.
“He sneaked into the blankets and raped the complainant. She cried out in pain and tried to wake up the accused person’s wife.
“The accused person’s wife said she heard the complainant crying but could not react as she was too drunk.”
Added, NPA, “The morning after the incident the complainant showed the accused person’s wife her bruised privates saying, ‘ndasvuuka’.
“The accused person’s wife also noted some discharge while she was bathing the complainant but never asked the girl what had happened.”
On the 25th of December, the rapist bought the infant some mangoes in an attempt to buy her silence.
He also coached her to accuse fellow children she plays with if someone questions her about the sexual abuse.
“When the complainant’s mother returned on the 28th of December 2023 she noticed that the complainant had bruises on her thighs and privates but also she did not inquire as to what had happened.
“The matter only came to light when the girl narrated her ordeal to her aunt who encouraged the complainant’s mother to report the matter to the police. The accused person was eventually arrested,” NPA said.
The government has suspended operating licences for bus companies, Blue Circle (operated by Swaymo Enterprises Pvt Ltd) and City Bus (operated by Wipeco Investments Pvt Ltd), following a fatal collision by two of their cross-border coaches in a Beitbridge in what led to the death of 11 people last week.
The decision to suspend the companies’ licences was imposed by the Transport Ministry.
Authorities have penalised the companies for alleged failure to adhere to the road traffic and safety management regulations set by the country.
The tragedy occurred at the Tshamunanga area, some 12 kilomitres from Beitbridge town along the Masvingo on 16 March 2024.
A Harare bound City bus collided with a Blue Circle bus travelling from Kadoma to the border town resulting in the fatalities.
Witnesses said one of the buses hit a donkey and swerved to the oncoming traffic lane resulting in the collision.
The incident followed another tragic one in which 15 Zimbabweans died during the week after a bus they were travelling in from Harare was involved in a fatal collision with a truck some 130 kilometres from Cape Town, South Africa
The Zimbabwean beef industry is currently facing a significant crisis due to a combination of a crippling drought and the aftermath of the land reform program, leading to a dramatic increase in cattle being sent to abattoirs. This surge in supply, much of it a desperate response by farmers to government advice to destock to mitigate losses, is severely impacting beef prices and exposing systemic vulnerabilities within the sector.
Mr. Neil Klein, the manager of Mbokodo Abattoir, voiced concerns over the unprecedented situation: “It is a nationwide thing that is going on as more farmers are destocking. Our average kill these days is about 150 cattle per day which is way above our normal kill.” This surge has forced some abattoirs to suspend slaughtering, unable to cope with the influx and abide by the stipulated 72 hours of animal stay before slaughter.
The destocking frenzy, while a short-term response to the dire effects of El Nino and the resultant drought, is a symptom of deeper issues within the beef industry, many of which can be traced back to the chaotic implementation of Zimbabwe’s land reform program. This initiative, while aimed at rectifying colonial land ownership imbalances, has been critiqued for disrupting the commercial farming sector, including beef production, which has not fully recovered.
Farmers, like Mr. Godfrey Hunda from Gokwe, illustrate the dire choices being made: “Out of a herd of 12 cattle, I came with four cattle so that I can sell them and be able to get money to buy stockfeed for the remainder.” These decisions, driven by survival, highlight the precarious position of farmers who are not only battling a harsh climate but also grappling with the economic ramifications of past policies.
The impact on beef prices is palpable. Mr. Klein highlighted the dramatic shift in beef producer prices, noting a significant decrease from previous rates. However, he anticipates a sharp reversal in the coming months: “You will find out that in a few months’ time when there will be a shortage, those prices could either double up. Prices have gone down because of the number of cattle being slaughtered currently.”
This scenario is further complicated by the recent implementation of value-added tax (VAT) on meat products and livestock, as explained by Mr. Jordy Young, general manager of MC Meats Abattoir in Masvingo. “This year the implementation of VAT on meat products and livestock has compounded the problem as it has made products unaffordable for a larger sector of the market,” Mr. Young stated, emphasizing the cascading effects of policy decisions on the industry.
The situation is dire for farmers, with many feeling exploited by middlemen in a market flooded with beef. “Worse-off middlemen are ripping off farmers and taking our animals for as low as $150,” lamented Mr. Hunda, underscoring the vulnerability of farmers in the current economic landscape.
In summary, the Zimbabwean beef industry’s current predicament is multifaceted, rooted in climatic challenges, historical land policies, and recent economic measures. The industry’s resilience is being tested as it navigates these compounded issues, with significant implications for farmers, abattoirs, and the broader economy. The unfolding scenario is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between policy, environmental stewardship, and economic sustainability in the agricultural sector.
In a recent and unexpected development that may highlight deep-seated disputes and legacies stemming from Zimbabwe’s tumultuous political history, the widow of the late Enos Nkala, a controversial figure associated with the Gukurahundi military episodes in the nation, has witnessed the demolition of her family’s business property. This incident, characterized by the total destruction of the Mbalabala premises—a commercial site hosting a service station, restaurant, and ablution facilities along the key Bulawayo-Beitbridge highway—caps off a lengthy and bitter legal dispute over its rightful ownership.
Thandiwe Nkala, who serves as the director of Mbalabala Properties and the widow of Enos Nkala, found herself embroiled in a legal battle with Dr. Jimmy Gazi, a well-known medical doctor who had been renting the premises since 2006. Their confrontation reached its peak when Dr. Gazi, having lost his legal fight to claim ownership, chose to raze the property he was subletting to the ground.
Reflecting on the origins of this contention, Mrs. Nkala recounted, “My husband took a loan from the bank and bought this property in 1989, creating Mbalabala Properties to oversee it. Initially, we rented it to former ZPRA combatants, but then Dr. Gazi came along with an offer.” It was an arrangement that turned sour when Enos Nkala’s health declined, leading to Dr. Gazi’s unsuccessful legal attempts to secure permanent ownership following Mr. Nkala’s passing in 2013.
The conflict was ostensibly rooted in an oral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) claimed by Dr. Gazi, which allegedly promised him the property in exchange for a variety of compensations, including financial support for Nkala’s daughter’s education, a Nissan Terrano, livestock, and cash payments. However, both the High Court and later the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Mrs. Nkala, dismissing Dr. Gazi’s claim.
Mrs. Nkala expressed her dismay at the turn of events, stating, “What pains me is not just the loss from these legal battles since 2006, but seeing the property my husband worked hard to acquire being turned into a heap of rubble. This was a barbaric act of vandalism.” She lamented the financial and emotional toll the protracted dispute and subsequent demolition had taken on her and her family.
This incident not only underscores the personal loss suffered by Mrs. Nkala but also casts a spotlight on the enduring complexities of Enos Nkala’s legacy. As a figure embroiled in Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence and subsequent internal conflicts, the ramifications of his actions continue to evoke strong and divided reactions within the nation.
The destruction of the Mbalabala property, therefore, is more than a simple legal dispute gone awry; it symbolizes the broader challenges of property rights, legal integrity, and the ongoing quest for reconciliation and justice in Zimbabwe. It serves as a poignant reminder of the unresolved tensions that persist, reflecting the broader societal struggles to come to terms with the nation’s historical conflicts and the individual lives caught in their wake.- State media/Agencies
By Investigative Reporter | ZimEye | Three soldiers from Infantry Battalion were shot dead after lodging a complaint about poor salaries.
An incident of a potentially upheaval nature nearly occurred on Thursday during the ongoing internet outage, according to two sources who spoke to ZimEye. “Everyone’s eyes right now are on Madzibaba Ishmael, and most Zimbabweans are not asking why Econet, a private company, is doing this. The soldiers were killed,” one of the sources told ZimEye.
The names of the soldiers had not been released at the time of this report.
Did ZANU create the Madzibaba Ishmael saga to cover up for their internet shutdown and execution of ZNA soldiers complaining over salaries?
The employment contract for soldiers prohibits them from making any kind of protest or complaint.
The Zimbabwe National Army had yet to comment at the time of writing, and a previous news comment regarding the exodus of personnel to join foreign armies had not been addressed. The ZNA is accused of executing 3 of its employees.
It was unclear at the time of writing whether the current network outage was due to written instructions from the state security ministry. The last time there was a national shutdown, the state security minister and the minister of defense had issued an instruction for all networks to disconnect their systems for several days in January 2019. During the 2018-19 period, activist Hopewell Chin’ono disclosed in writing that he had directed the Ministry of Defence to regularly target civil society. This advice negatively impacted women who were raped and activists who were tortured.
It is Chin’ono’s advice that led Emmerson Mnangagwa to come on video to disclose that the military is now going after doctors and lawyers who are attending to protesters; and as a result of that, military operations have twice split opposition leader Nelson Chamisa’s party, causing him to launch two parties one after the other in the space of 3 years.
Details of the ranks of these military officers were not disclosed at the time of writing.
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY – REFRESH THIS PAGE FOR MORE
Kerina Mujati @kerinamujati stresses to ZimEye, saying it's true Monica Mutsvangwa had submitted her resignation, and the couple had even left Zimbabwe.
The truth is in Zimbabwe right now, there is no one who likes ED… No one likes him. Even his kids don't like him, she says
Kerina Mujati @kerinamujati stresses to ZimEye, saying it's true Monica Mutsvangwa had submitted her resignation, and the couple had even left Zimbabwe.
The truth is in Zimbabwe right now, there is no one who likes ED… No one likes him. Even his kids don't like him, she says
By Political Reporter- Former MDC senior member Eddie Cross has said Nelson Chamisa is a weak politician and should not have resigned from the CCC.
In a video interview with Blessed Mhlanga, which went viral, Cross said Chamisa should have held a congress and dealt with Sengezo Tshabangu.
I am gonna factcheck Eddie here. The 2006 congress was not at National Sports Stadium, it was at City Sports. Yes pple came but not 23 000 pple. In fact we didn't have enough delegates and I remember hiring combis to go UZ and pick up students to make up the numbers. I was a… pic.twitter.com/okiI8orcBW
By Showbiz Reporter-Zimbabweans are still waiting for details of the death of the UK-based socialite Shelter MacBolan and her two friends, who died in a car accident in Zanzibar while celebrating her birthday.
MacBolan travelled to the island of Zanzibar, Tanzania, last week to celebrate her birthday.
She had travelled to the picturesque tourist attraction, as her birthday was on Saturday, 16 March.
Shelter went to Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort to get an immersive birthday experience.
There, she donned the traditional red garb and danced with the Maasai people, who circled her as she grooved.
Later, she wore an immaculate, elegant sky-blue dinner dress and matching heels to a photo shoot, looking like a million bucks. On Tuesday, 19 March, Shelter shared the stunning pictures on her social media account.
Her hearty smile showed how oblivious she was to the impending end that would befall her.
As she travelled in Zanzibar, she was involved in a fatal car accident.
It is still unclear how and what caused the car crash, but she tragically died in the accident.
She perished days after celebrating her birthday in style.
Her friend, identified as Summer Rose, revealed her death on social media:
“Shocked beyond belief. Shelter took this picture a couple of days ago celebrating her birthday in Zanzibar, only to die in a car crash a couple of days later whilst on holiday ?? nah this is heartbreaking ????”
“Ah noooo mhani Shelter MacBolan, you are not really gone, surely?Ko mwana nhai Shelter did you really die just like that? I just can’t believe thisRest in peace beautiful “
Condolence Messages For Shelter
Friends and relatives of the Zimbabwean socialite expressed sadness.
Taffy:
“Wait. No!!! Aaaah amana zvadarireiko? This is just wild. RIP beautiful “
Everjoy:
“God called, and you answered. Rest easy, dearest. You lived a life with no regrets. Till we meet again, angel.”
Hanief:
“Painful to accept. Rest In Paradise……my sister…..Go well.”
Sidney:
“Just a couple of days ago I was admiring your trip and birthday photos sha REST IN PERFECT PEACE & may God comfort your family and loved ones left behind.
By ZimEye/BBC-Following the tragic assault on a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow, claiming the lives of at least 93 individuals and injuring over 100, the South African government has reassured its citizens of their safety in Russia.
However, concerns linger for Zimbabweans residing in diplomatic missions, educational institutions, or academic pursuits within the Russian capital, as the Zimbabwean envoy in Moscow remains silent regarding the safety of its citizens.
ZimEye is making efforts to contact the Zimbabwean Ambassador to Russia, Ambrose Mutinhuri, for clarification.
BBC Saturday reports that the assailants, donned camouflage attire, perpetrated the attack in the north-western suburb of Krasnogorsk. Among the 11 individuals arrested, four were directly involved in the assault.
The targeted venue, Crocus City Hall, was on the brink of hosting a rock concert when the gunmen stormed the premises, engulfing much of the building in flames and causing part of the roof to collapse.
Tragically, children were among the casualties, prompting condemnation from the Russian foreign ministry, labelling the incident a “terrorist attack.”
While an unverified online statement attributed the attack to the militant group Islamic State, US officials disclosed intelligence suggesting IS intentions to target large gatherings in Moscow, with prior warnings issued to Russian authorities by the White House.
Russian security forces swiftly responded, with special units deployed to apprehend the attackers. However, President Vladimir Putin has yet to directly address the nation regarding the incident, leaving many in uncertainty.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of chaos and violence, with survivors describing desperate attempts to seek refuge amidst the onslaught.
As emergency services battled the blaze and attended to the injured, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin announced the cancellation of all public events in the capital over the weekend, expressing condolences to the victims’ families.
International condemnation poured in, with calls for solidarity against such heinous acts.
While security measures have been reinforced across airports and stations, the tragic events reignited memories of past atrocities, notably the 2002 NordOst theatre siege.
As investigations unfold, questions persist regarding the safety and well-being of Zimbabweans amidst the turmoil, awaiting clarity and assurance from diplomatic channels.
By Political Reporter- The country’s most popular and charismatic politician, Nelson Chamisa, has taken steps to prevent President Emmerson Mnangagwa from assuming the chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The SADC chairmanship is traditionally rotated among member states, with Zimbabwe slated to assume the role in August of this year, succeeding Angolan President João Lourenço.
Chamisa, speaking to VOA’s Studio 7, revealed that he and his supporters have petitioned SADC to block Mnangagwa from taking over the leadership of the 16-member regional bloc.
Their primary contention stems from the widely disputed national elections held on August 23, 2023, which Chamisa asserts were rigged.
Zimbabwe’s electoral process last year drew widespread condemnation from international observers, including SADC itself.
Chamisa’s move underscores the deep political tensions within Zimbabwe and the broader region, as stakeholders navigate the fallout from contentious elections and strive for democratic integrity within SADC’s framework.
By State Media – The Former First Lady Grace Mugabe has been named in a fresh land scam involving her niece.
State media reports that Grace has been sucked into a wrangle over an attempt by her niece to reverse the cancellation of one of the title deeds in Borrowdale’s Carrick Creagh, with reports alleging that she tried to persuade a Government minister to withdraw his affidavit opposing the attempt to reverse the cancellation.
Mugabe’s niece, Ms Farai Mashonganyika, is suing Local Government and Public Works Minister Winston Chitando over the cancellation of the title deed for a stand of 8 003 square metres she bought for US$4 000, although subsequent valuations said she should have paid US$20 003. According to sources close to the dispute, Mrs Mugabe sought to persuade Minister Chitando to withdraw his affidavit so her niece could secure a default judgment in the matter, and get her title deed back without any court argument. However, Minister Chitando would have none of it as he stuck to the due process of the law and filed his papers opposing the application and supporting the Government action in cleaning up what were identified as irregularities in some of the developments in Carrick Creagh. Ms Mashonganyika, is a former commissioner at the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission. She claimed to have bought the land for US$4 000 in 2011 at around US$0,49 a square metre. The Government cancelled the title deed for Mashonganyika after property developer, Arosume Property Development Pvt, advised that it was fraudulently acquired given the cost was far less than the market price of US$20 003 at that time. This was part of a number of complaints by Arosume that it had been forced to sell part of the development at below market prices, although others, including people in Government, paid full price. In her recent High Court application, Ms Mashonagnyika is suing Minister Chitando seeking to reverse the cancellation, arguing that she bought Stand 91 of Carrick Creagh from the ministry. She stated in her papers that she was shocked to receive notification through notices in the Government Gazette and advertisements in this paper published in November 2022, that the ministry intended to cancel several title deeds, including hers, and invited holders to make their representations, which she did through her lawyer. But the ministry, after considering the matter last month, served her with a notice advising that her title deed was cancelled under case number HC700/24. She has now made an application to reverse that cancellation. Last week, Minister Chitando filed his opposing papers in which he highlighted that Ms Mashonganyika did not join Arosume and only they can confirm or deny that she paid the development costs. Minister Chitando also submitted that the court could not make a determination without hearing the side of the developer which had not been brought into the application against the ministry. “The ministry can only answer to the issue of the intrinsic value,” said Minister Chitando. “The development fees were to be paid in accordance with the tripartite agreement and the developer would confirm payment of such to this honourable court.” To this end, Minister Chitando urged the court to reject Ms Mashonganyika’s application for lack of merit. The minister laid out how the development costs of the suburb were to be paid. “The Ministry, Arosume Property Development Pvt Ltd and Sally Mugabe Housing Cooperative had a tripartite agreement for the development of residential stands in Carrick Creagh,Borrowdale, Harare. “The stand in question does not fall within the commonage list. There is,therefore, an assumption that she might have been a cooperative member or an individual identified by the developer himself.” But Ms Mashonganyika, said the minister was expected to pay for the development of the area as stipulated in the tripartite agreement. Even if she was a cooperative member or from the developer, the agreement was clear that these groups ought to pay their fair proportion of development of the area, argued Minister Chitando. “The ministry, however, conducted a valuation exercise for purposes of collecting the intrinsic value cost and it clearly shows that the stand was valued at US$20 003. The applicant c alleges that she paid US$4000 only which was a breach for non- payment of intrinsic value to Government. “Further, the ministry is not even aware how a whole title deed was processed when the full purchase price was not paid.” Minister Chitando said the ministry received a request from the developer to cancel the title deed for the land as Ms Mashonganyika had failed to honour her obligation in terms of payment of the development fees. The minister also said his predecessor Minister July Moyo issued a notice of intention to cancel dated April 5, 2022, and Ms Mashonganyika on April 13 responded to the notice objecting to the cancellation of the deed. In her response, according to the minister, Ms Mashonganyika alleged that she obtained the stand from the commonage list as she was a civil servant, among other issues. Minister Chitando stated that the stand did not fall within that category and he accused Ms Mashonganyika of dishonesty when she said in her application that she was not advised of the cancellation of the title deed during the meetings she had with the Ministry. The hearing date is not yet available.
By Political Reporter- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has regained military control after the new Air Force of Zimbabwe Commander Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede occupied office.
Nzvede took over from Air Marshal Elson Moyo, who was fired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa two weeks ago.
Nzvede is Chiwenga’s close ally, just like Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe.
Nzvede and Sanyatwe were on Chiwenga’s wedding committee in December last year.
‘Insiders’ quoted by Newshawks were cited as saying Chiwenga’s wedding to military intelligence officer Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi (47), 20 years his junior, was a major political affair.
The wedding is said to have been a political statement and an endorsement of Chiwenga’s power ambitions and strategic manoeuvres.
Sanyatwe represented the military, while the Air Force was represented by retired Air Marshal Shebba Shumbayawonda, now ambassador to Egypt, and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services by Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu.
The Military Intelligence Directorate, where Chiwenga’s wife works, was represented by its commander Major-General Thomas Moyo.
Together with deputy Senate president retired Lieutenant-General Mike Nyambuya and Sanyatwe, Shumbayawonda was part of Chiwenga’s bridal team.
Chiwenga’s best man retired Lieutenant-General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah (71), is a Namibian diplomat and former military commander.
Ndaitwah is said to be critical in terms of Chiwenga’s regional power matrix and manoeuvres.
He is married to Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, who is also the current SWAPO vice-president.
Before his death, the late Namibian President Hage Geingob named Nandi-Ndaitwah as the SWAPO presidential candidate in the November 2024 general election.
She will almost certainly become the new President of Namibia in November, and this will be a major boost to Chiwenga’s political prospects.
Sanyatwe, former Presidential Guard commander, who was removed with other commanders in 2019, is back at the helm of the Zimbabwe National Army.
This means Chiwenga now has a firmer grip again on the army after his allies were removed following the November 2017 coup which brought President Emmerson Mnangagwa to power.
Chiwenga is said to be locked in a fierce power struggle and delicate political brinksmanship with Mnangagwa.
Chiwenga is tightening his grip on the army, aiming to regain political clout and position himself for power.
Meanwhile, Mnangagwa maintains control of the situation through Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, who is expected to leave the army soon.
Mnangagwa tried to appoint Sibanda a member of the ZANU PF decision-making politburo last year at the ZANU PF annual conference in Gweru, but his political move was deemed unconstitutional and unlawful, forcing him to retreat.
The President’s reported allies are said to be still in charge in the second layer of the ZNA command element, although there was an attempt to remove them recently through an internal corruption investigation.
The Zimbabwean army, intricately entwined with politics, has wielded significant influence over the nation’s political and military trajectory during pivotal historical moments — from the Mgagao Declaration in 1975 to the November 2017 coup.
If Sibanda goes and Chiwenga appoints his ally, retired Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje, as ZDF commander, Chiwenga will gain full control of the military and position himself as the likely next President after Mnangagwa.
The Perilous Impact of Contaminated Fuel: A Deep Dive into the Meru Service Station Crisis
Introducing contaminated fuel into a vehicle’s system is not unlike injecting a potent toxin directly into its veins. This hazardous action triggers a series of engine malfunctions ranging from diminished efficiency and power loss to severe engine knocking and the potential for irreversible damage. The presence of water in petrol compromises the fuel’s ability to combust efficiently, leading to underperformance and, in severe cases, catastrophic engine failures. This risk not only endangers the vehicle’s operational integrity but also poses a significant threat to the safety of its occupants, raising the likelihood of unexpected malfunctions on the road.
Mount Meru Petroleum Zimbabwe, the company behind the operation of the Meru service stations, is facing intense scrutiny following an incident where motorists discovered a petrol storage tank at its Mbare service station in Harare contaminated with water. The event, which erupted into chaos on a Wednesday night, saw vehicles that had been fueled from the compromised pump suffering from engine knock and other significant mechanical failures shortly thereafter.
The atmosphere at the service station quickly turned volatile as outraged motorists converged on the premises, demanding explanations and remedies. Numerous vehicles were observed being purged of the tainted petrol and refueled with uncontaminated fuel, as their owners vocally condemned the oversight. The aggrieved parties unified in their call for the revocation of the operator’s license, condemning the sale of contaminated fuel as an egregious lapse that compromised their safety and the health of their vehicles.
“The outrage here is palpable,” stated one motorist, visibly shaken by the ordeal. “To think that a station of Meru’s standing would jeopardize our safety in such a manner is unconscionable.”
Personal testimonies added depth to the unfolding drama. Mr. Tashinga Musonza shared his distressing experience, stating, “The moment my vehicle ground to a halt, I knew something was terribly wrong. Only later did I connect the dots back to the contaminated fuel from Meru. It’s a betrayal of trust at a fundamental level.”
Echoing the sentiment, Ms. Doreen Muyambo demanded accountability, asserting, “This isn’t just about the fuel; it’s about the trust we place in these companies to ensure our safety. I expect, at the very least, compensation and a commitment to prevent this from ever happening again.”
Faced with a rapidly escalating crisis and a potential blow to its reputation, representatives from Meru swiftly responded. Mr. Dhairya Solanki, a company director, conveyed, “We deeply regret the inconvenience and concern this has caused our valued customers. We’ve refunded the affected motorists and supplied them with clean fuel as a gesture of our commitment to rectifying this situation.”
Moreover, Meru’s public relations officer, Mr. Moreblessing Cherayi, admitted to the contamination and outlined the company’s immediate response measures, “A technical glitch resulted in one of our tanks being compromised. We’ve since shut down the affected pump and are conducting a thorough investigation to prevent a recurrence. Our priority is to ensure compliance with ZERA’s standards and to safeguard the quality of our fuel.”
This incident not only casts a shadow over the issue of fuel quality control and regulatory enforcement but also serves as a grim reminder of the perils associated with contaminated fuel. It underscores an urgent need for stringent oversight and preventive measures to shield consumers from such negligent practices, ensuring the reliability and safety of the fuel supply across Zimbabwe. As investigations proceed, the focus will invariably shift towards implementing robust safeguards, upholding the integrity of the nation’s fuel infrastructure, and protecting the well-being of its citizens.
The Rusitu community in Chimanimani last week remembered the victims of Cyclone Idai through a soccer match, with a local football team, Rusitu Tigers FC, formed to serve as a source of comfort to the affected families. ZBC NEWS
In a strategic move to solidify his ties with the Ndebele tribe, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently asserted ancestral connections to the renowned King Lobengula.
This proclamation, made during a public address in Lupane, has stirred both interest and skepticism, prompting discussions about the historical veracity and political implications of such a claim.
The assertion surfaced amidst growing political tensions and ethnic divisions within Zimbabwe, particularly within the context of the ruling Zanu PF party’s efforts to broaden its support base.
Mnangagwa’s proclamation was swiftly echoed by Zanu PF Varakashi, a group associated with the party, emphasizing the purported link between the president and the legendary Ndebele leader.
According to the statement by Zanu PF Varakashi, Mnangagwa purportedly shares ancestral ties with the Ndebele army led by King Lobengula during the pre-colonial era.
This assertion attempts to weave the president into the rich tapestry of Zimbabwe’s history, positioning him as a descendant of a revered figure in Ndebele heritage.However, the claim has not been without skepticism.
Critics have questioned the authenticity of Mnangagwa’s purported lineage and the political motivations behind the assertion.
Some view it as a calculated move to garner support from the Ndebele community, especially in light of historical tensions between the Ndebele and the ruling Zanu PF party, which has predominantly drawn its support from the Shona ethnic group.
Moreover, historians and scholars have highlighted the complexities of tracing ancestral connections, particularly across centuries of historical upheaval and cultural assimilation.
The lack of concrete evidence to substantiate Mnangagwa’s claim further fuels doubts about its legitimacy.
The assertion also raises broader questions about the role of historical narratives in contemporary politics.
As Zimbabwe grapples with issues of national identity, reconciliation, and inclusive governance, the invocation of ancestral ties to historical figures carries significant symbolic weight.
It taps into deep-seated cultural sentiments and aspirations for unity and belonging.
In response to the controversy, some Ndebele leaders have called for a cautious approach, emphasizing the need for thorough historical research and dialogue to validate such claims.
They caution against the instrumentalization of history for political gain, urging a nuanced understanding of Zimbabwe’s diverse heritage and collective memory.
As discussions surrounding Mnangagwa’s claim continue to unfold, it underscores the intricate interplay between history, politics, and identity in Zimbabwean society.
Whether Mnangagwa’s assertion of ancestral ties to King Lobengula will serve as a bridge to foster greater unity or exacerbate existing divisions remains to be seen.
Yet, it underscores the enduring relevance of history in shaping the contours of Zimbabwe’s evolving political landscape.
A recent image circulating on social media depicting Sengezo Tshabangu bowing in reverence to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ignited a firestorm of controversy and speculation.
The photograph has reignited debates surrounding Tshabangu’s political affiliations and the perceived influence of Mnangagwa’s Zanu PF party within opposition circles.
The image, which surfaced online, captures Tshabangu in a gesture of obeisance towards President Mnangagwa, prompting questions about the nature of their relationship and the implications for Zimbabwean politics.
Tshabangu, a figure within opposition circles, has long been scrutinized for his alleged ties to Zanu PF, with some viewing him as a proxy for the ruling party’s interests.
In response to the photograph, Zanu PF hardliners, identified as Varakashi, seized the opportunity to portray the encounter between Tshabangu and Mnangagwa as a testament to the progressive nature of opposition politics.
Their interpretation suggests a narrative of collaboration and consensus-building between rival political factions, albeit through the lens of subservience to the ruling party.
However, critics have been quick to condemn Tshabangu’s gesture as a capitulation to the ruling party, accusing him of betraying the principles of opposition politics and succumbing to undue influence.
The image has reignited suspicions about the extent of Zanu PF’s infiltration within opposition ranks and the potential for co-option and manipulation.
Furthermore, the photograph has raised broader questions about the dynamics of power and influence within Zimbabwean politics.
It underscores the complexities of navigating the political landscape, where alliances and allegiances are subject to constant scrutiny and interpretation.
The optics of Tshabangu’s deferential posture towards Mnangagwa have reverberated across social media platforms, shaping public perceptions and fueling speculation about the underlying motivations behind the encounter.
Amidst the controversy, Tshabangu has remained relatively silent, offering no public statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the photograph or address the allegations leveled against him.
His silence only serves to deepen the intrigue surrounding the incident, leaving room for speculation to flourish and interpretations to diverge.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with political polarization and the quest for democratic reform, incidents such as this one serve as poignant reminders of the challenges inherent in navigating the complexities of its political landscape.
The photograph of Tshabangu bowing before Mnangagwa encapsulates the fraught nature of Zimbabwean politics, where allegiances are constantly tested, and perceptions can be as potent as reality itself.
In the absence of clarity from Tshabangu himself, the true significance of the encounter remains open to interpretation, offering fodder for ongoing debates and speculation within Zimbabwean society.
Young Warriors coach Simon Marange believes his charges played well despite losing to Malawi in the opening game of the four-nations invitational tournament.
Malawi beat Zimbabwe 3-2 at the Silver Stadium, in a contest the hosts largely dominated and got their goals from Madalitso Safuli and an Emmanuel Savel brace, while the lively Denzel Mapuwa grabbed a brace for the visitors.
Speaking after the game, Marange showered praise on his charges, saying they gave a good account of themselves despite the fact that for most them, it was the first time representing the country.
“For a start, I think we put on a good performance. For most players, it’s the first time playing in the national team —90% of the squad, so I think they gave a good account,” Marange said.
“We controlled most of the game, we lost the game on transition moments. The two goals that came in on a quick time, they were transition moments where we lost a bit of shape while we had the ball and they were able to punish us,” he added.
As A Beep From Nature we always want to remind everyone that Climate Change is not a daily thing its a life time routine which we as humans are worsening it.
Let reduce deforestation and prioritize decarbonization otherwise the successive generation is going to suffer the actions of ours !
A Beep From Nature
ZimEye.com is proud to announce its Climate Change Awareness Initiative.
Let’s join hands in the fight against the effects of climate change…
For strategic partnership inquiries, please contact us at: Phone: +44 7411 343574 +44 7426 863301
Remembering Cyclone Idai victims through football:
The Rusitu community in Chimanimani last week remembered the victims of Cyclone Idai through a soccer match, with a local football team, Rusitu Tigers FC, formed to serve as a source of comfort to the affected families. ZBC NEWS
By Business Reporter- The Zimbabwean dollar has declined by over 70% against the United States dollar in less than two months.
Bloomberg reports that this happened after the Zim dollar had dropped below the 10,000 level in late January, falling below 20,000 against the US dollar.
On Friday, March 22, the Zimbabwean dollar was trading at 20,389 per greenback, indicating a cumulative decline of 70% since the beginning of the year. This places it among the world’s currencies with the poorest performance.
The decline in the local currency’s value has not elicited a strong reaction from fiscal or monetary authorities, except for their acknowledgement that they are actively developing a “structured currency”.
While the specific form of the structured currency remains uncertain, there is speculation that it could be backed by gold.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has delayed the release of its monetary policy statement while the currency plans are being drafted.
Michael Ashley Schulman, chief investment officer and partner at Running Point Capital Advisors said that the postponement has caused anxiety locally, but most outside investors have already abandoned Zimbabwe’s currency. Said:
The major concern for people in the country is that if Zimbabwe does switch to a gold-backed currency, they will do it at an exchange rate favourable to the new currency and unfavourable to citizens, thus leading to a further last-minute devaluation. In other words, if you have Zimbabwean dollars, you want to spend them as quickly as possible on something tangible.
However, having a gold-backed currency won’t necessarily stop future devaluations from occurring, Schulman added. He said, “The government can still print money and change its currency ratios.”
By Crime and Courts Reporter- Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa is said to have ordered his aides to stone to death the late University of Zimbabwe Professor Itai Muwati.
Professor Muwati was later buried alive after being stoned to death in the eyes of Madzibaba Ishmael at his shrine.
Muwati’s family alleges that the late Professor was fatally assaulted by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s followers, with the cult leader reportedly overseeing the attack.
Professor Muwati sided at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira. Some relatives claim he intended to leave the cult before the assault occurred.
One of Madzibaba Ishmael’s loyal followers reportedly took the academic, and he was still alive when buried.
Shortly after his demise, the family successfully exhumed Professor Muwati’s remains from the shrine’s shallow grave.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family on Monday, two years after his passing, indicate that Prof Muwati was poisoned.
After H-Metro ran a front-page story on Wednesday, March 20, Tichie D. Madiwanashe, who said the late Professor was his uncle, said:
You were beaten whilst Ishmael was seated on a chair urging his assassins to deal with you ruthlessly, I am in tears sekuru as I write.
RIP Mkrugenzi, I can imagine the horror you went through.
Continue to rest in peace Sekuru Itai, we know your murderers and justice will finally be delivered as I promised you when you visited in my dream.
We are not resting, your mine, your vehicles, cattle, hanga, chickens, matoki, chigayo chemafuta, grinding mill, gas tanks and your money they looted, they shall return.
You bought Ishmael an Isuzu KB280 when he was released from prison, you gave him your C200 Benz, helped him more than anybody else did but this is how he chose to repay you.
Just because you wanted to leave his cult.
Madiwanashe further alleged that the Professor was brutally attacked with physical objects before he was made to drink a non-alcoholic traditional brew that was laced with poison. He wrote:
We know James Takavengwa Gwenzi, Rinos Kabunu and Devlodge Phibion Katsande beat you up, we heard you fought back but stones were used to attack you, and knobkeries, you bled profusely and you were given pfuko, laced with poison.
We know they buried you alive, you breathed your last underground and Inspector Musekiwa… was, indeed, a stumbling block, however, at last, we are there, and you can now rest in peace.
We know Terrance Nhavira and Byton Andrew Muganhu are using your truck and Byton took your wife the day you were buried and your household property.
Gwenzi and Katsande have been charged together with Madzibaba Ishmael. Said Madiwanashe:
Byton took over the household property, house, kids, and wife plus the truck, the rest kuna Mambo weKenani, most projects they are doing were initiated and funded by Prof Muwati.
Other monies came from Oscar Hardware in Domboshawa, which had a stock of up to US$80 000 dollars and, for a good three months, it cashed directly to Ishmael, we hear his sons (Abedinigo and Stailodge) were behind the sales.
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused were charged with violating the Burial and Cremation Act, and also contravening the Children’s Act.
On the first count, the State is alleging that sometime in November 2023 the accused persons conducted 2 burials in respect of the late Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Chibaya at Lily Farm compound in Nyabira without burial orders.
On the second count, the State is further alleging that sometime during the period extending from 2019 to date, the accused persons being parents or guardians neglected or exposed the children in their custody and care to living conditions that caused them unnecessary suffering or conditions that were detrimental to their health. The children were not allowed to go to school or access health care services.
By Political Reporter- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has regained military control after the new Air Force of Zimbabwe Commander Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede occupied office.
Nzvede took over from Air Marshal Elson Moyo, who was fired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa two weeks ago.
NewsHawk reports that Nzvede is Chiwenga’s close ally, just like Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe.
Nzvede and Sanyatwe were on Chiwenga’s wedding committee in December last year.
The NewsHawks reported insiders in Zimbabwe’s corridors of power as saying Chiwenga’s wedding to military intelligence officer Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi (47), 20 years his junior, was a major political affair.
The wedding is said to have been a political statement and an endorsement of Chiwenga’s power ambitions and strategic manoeuvres.
Sanyatwe represented the military, while the Air Force was represented by retired Air Marshal Shebba Shumbayawonda, now ambassador to Egypt, and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services by Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu.
The Military Intelligence Directorate, where Chiwenga’s wife works, was represented by its commander Major-General Thomas Moyo.
Together with deputy Senate president retired Lieutenant-General Mike Nyambuya and Sanyatwe, Shumbayawonda was part of Chiwenga’s bridal team.
Chiwenga’s best man retired Lieutenant-General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah (71), is a Namibian diplomat and former military commander.
Ndaitwah is said to be critical in terms of Chiwenga’s regional power matrix and manoeuvres.
He is married to Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, who is also the current SWAPO vice-president.
Before his death, the late Namibian President Hage Geingob named Nandi-Ndaitwah as the SWAPO presidential candidate in the November 2024 general election.
She will almost certainly become the new President of Namibia in November, and this will be a major boost to Chiwenga’s political prospects.
Sanyatwe, former Presidential Guard commander, who was removed with other commanders in 2019, is back at the helm of the Zimbabwe National Army.
This means Chiwenga now has a firmer grip again on the army after his allies were removed following the November 2017 coup which brought President Emmerson Mnangagwa to power.
Chiwenga is said to be locked in a fierce power struggle and delicate political brinksmanship with Mnangagwa.
Chiwenga is tightening his grip on the army, aiming to regain political clout and position himself for power.
Meanwhile, Mnangagwa maintains control of the situation through Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, who is expected to leave the army soon.
Mnangagwa tried to appoint Sibanda a member of the ZANU PF decision-making politburo last year at the ZANU PF annual conference in Gweru, but his political move was deemed unconstitutional and unlawful, forcing him to retreat.
The President’s reported allies are said to be still in charge in the second layer of the ZNA command element, although there was an attempt to remove them recently through an internal corruption investigation.
The Zimbabwean army, intricately entwined with politics, has wielded significant influence over the nation’s political and military trajectory during pivotal historical moments — from the Mgagao Declaration in 1975 to the November 2017 coup.
If Sibanda goes and Chiwenga appoints his ally, retired Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje, as ZDF commander, Chiwenga will gain full control of the military and position himself as the likely next President after Mnangagwa.
Young Warriors coach Simon Marange believes his charges played well despite losing to Malawi in the opening game of the four-nations invitational tournament.
Malawi beat Zimbabwe 3-2 at the Silver Stadium, in a contest the hosts largely dominated and got their goals from Madalitso Safuli and an Emmanuel Savel brace, while the lively Denzel Mapuwa grabbed a brace for the visitors.
Speaking after the game, Marange showered praise on his charges, saying they gave a good account of themselves despite the fact that for most them, it was the first time representing the country.
“For a start, I think we put on a good performance. For most players, it’s the first time playing in the national team —90% of the squad, so I think they gave a good account,” Marange said.
“We controlled most of the game, we lost the game on transition moments. The two goals that came in on a quick time, they were transition moments where we lost a bit of shape while we had the ball and they were able to punish us,” he added.
As A Beep From Nature we always want to remind everyone that Climate Change is not a daily thing its a life time routine which we as humans are worsening it.
Let reduce deforestation and prioritize decarbonization otherwise the successive generation is going to suffer the actions of ours !
A Beep From Nature
ZimEye.com is proud to announce its Climate Change Awareness Initiative.
Let’s join hands in the fight against the effects of climate change…
For strategic partnership inquiries, please contact us at: Phone: +44 7411 343574 +44 7426 863301
In a poignant address, opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has raised the alarm about the rapid and alarming environmental degradation plaguing Zimbabwe.
Chamisa’s remarks come in the wake of his recent observation of extensive deforestation and environmental destruction, particularly evident during a drive past Boterekwa.
Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating state of the country’s natural landscapes, Chamisa emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address this pressing issue.
“I witnessed the alarming extent of environmental degradation and deforestation as I drove past Boterekwa. This left me deeply concerned,” Chamisa remarked, reflecting on the profound impact of witnessing firsthand the environmental devastation unfolding across Zimbabwe.
His observation underscores the severity of the situation, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem that extends far beyond Boterekwa alone.Chamisa lamented the stark contrast to Zimbabwe’s once lush and verdant landscapes, noting the drastic decline in greenery even within arid regions.
This stark transformation, he emphasized, serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for concerted efforts to reverse the tide of environmental degradation and safeguard the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
“Sadly, this scenario isn’t unique to this area alone; it’s a widespread issue across our beloved Zimbabwe,” Chamisa acknowledged, drawing attention to the pervasive nature of environmental degradation gripping the country.
His acknowledgment of the scale of the problem underscores the magnitude of the challenge facing Zimbabwe in confronting the environmental crisis.Against the backdrop of looming threats posed by climate change, Chamisa called for a unified approach to restore, preserve, and enhance Zimbabwe’s natural environment. He stressed the imperative of ushering in a green revolution aimed at realizing a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for all Zimbabweans.
“We must unite efforts to restore, preserve, and improve our natural environment, not just for ourselves but for the generations to come,” Chamisa urged, emphasizing the collective responsibility to safeguard Zimbabwe’s ecological heritage.
His call to action resonates with the need for immediate and decisive measures to mitigate the impacts of environmental degradation and climate change.
Chamisa’s impassioned plea for environmental conservation and climate action encapsulates a broader commitment to fostering sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of present and future generations.
His vision for a Green Zimbabwe reflects a shared aspiration to prioritize environmental stewardship and build a resilient and prosperous nation.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the urgent challenges posed by environmental degradation, Chamisa’s advocacy serves as a rallying cry for renewed commitment and action in pursuit of a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
His message resonates with the imperative of collective action and underscores the critical importance of preserving Zimbabwe’s natural heritage for the benefit of all.
ZIMSEC has extended the 2024 Grade 7, O-level and A-Level June and November Registration Deadline following the requests from Parents, Schools and other stakeholders who argued that the initial deadline was too soon. @followers
A recent image circulating on social media depicting Sengezo Tshabangu bowing in reverence to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ignited a firestorm of controversy and speculation.
The photograph has reignited debates surrounding Tshabangu’s political affiliations and the perceived influence of Mnangagwa’s Zanu PF party within opposition circles.
The image, which surfaced online, captures Tshabangu in a gesture of obeisance towards President Mnangagwa, prompting questions about the nature of their relationship and the implications for Zimbabwean politics.
Tshabangu, a figure within opposition circles, has long been scrutinized for his alleged ties to Zanu PF, with some viewing him as a proxy for the ruling party’s interests.
In response to the photograph, Zanu PF hardliners, identified as Varakashi, seized the opportunity to portray the encounter between Tshabangu and Mnangagwa as a testament to the progressive nature of opposition politics.
Their interpretation suggests a narrative of collaboration and consensus-building between rival political factions, albeit through the lens of subservience to the ruling party.
However, critics have been quick to condemn Tshabangu’s gesture as a capitulation to the ruling party, accusing him of betraying the principles of opposition politics and succumbing to undue influence.
The image has reignited suspicions about the extent of Zanu PF’s infiltration within opposition ranks and the potential for co-option and manipulation.
Furthermore, the photograph has raised broader questions about the dynamics of power and influence within Zimbabwean politics.
It underscores the complexities of navigating the political landscape, where alliances and allegiances are subject to constant scrutiny and interpretation.
The optics of Tshabangu’s deferential posture towards Mnangagwa have reverberated across social media platforms, shaping public perceptions and fueling speculation about the underlying motivations behind the encounter.
Amidst the controversy, Tshabangu has remained relatively silent, offering no public statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the photograph or address the allegations leveled against him.
His silence only serves to deepen the intrigue surrounding the incident, leaving room for speculation to flourish and interpretations to diverge.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with political polarization and the quest for democratic reform, incidents such as this one serve as poignant reminders of the challenges inherent in navigating the complexities of its political landscape.
The photograph of Tshabangu bowing before Mnangagwa encapsulates the fraught nature of Zimbabwean politics, where allegiances are constantly tested, and perceptions can be as potent as reality itself.
In the absence of clarity from Tshabangu himself, the true significance of the encounter remains open to interpretation, offering fodder for ongoing debates and speculation within Zimbabwean society.
Government has suspended operating licenses of two bus companies, Swaymo Enterprises Pvt Ltd trading as Bluecircle and Wipeco Investments (Pvt) Ltd trading as City Bus, which were involved in a fatal accident along the Beitbridge-Masvingo Highway on the 16th of March 2024 for not being compliant with the country’s regulations on road traffic and safety management.
The two buses collided and killed 11 people near Beitbridge last week.
In a strategic move to solidify his ties with the Ndebele tribe, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently asserted ancestral connections to the renowned King Lobengula.
This proclamation, made during a public address in Lupane, has stirred both interest and skepticism, prompting discussions about the historical veracity and political implications of such a claim.
The assertion surfaced amidst growing political tensions and ethnic divisions within Zimbabwe, particularly within the context of the ruling Zanu PF party’s efforts to broaden its support base.
Mnangagwa’s proclamation was swiftly echoed by Zanu PF Varakashi, a group associated with the party, emphasizing the purported link between the president and the legendary Ndebele leader.
According to the statement by Zanu PF Varakashi, Mnangagwa purportedly shares ancestral ties with the Ndebele army led by King Lobengula during the pre-colonial era.
This assertion attempts to weave the president into the rich tapestry of Zimbabwe’s history, positioning him as a descendant of a revered figure in Ndebele heritage.However, the claim has not been without skepticism.
Critics have questioned the authenticity of Mnangagwa’s purported lineage and the political motivations behind the assertion.
Some view it as a calculated move to garner support from the Ndebele community, especially in light of historical tensions between the Ndebele and the ruling Zanu PF party, which has predominantly drawn its support from the Shona ethnic group.
Moreover, historians and scholars have highlighted the complexities of tracing ancestral connections, particularly across centuries of historical upheaval and cultural assimilation.
The lack of concrete evidence to substantiate Mnangagwa’s claim further fuels doubts about its legitimacy.
The assertion also raises broader questions about the role of historical narratives in contemporary politics.
As Zimbabwe grapples with issues of national identity, reconciliation, and inclusive governance, the invocation of ancestral ties to historical figures carries significant symbolic weight.
It taps into deep-seated cultural sentiments and aspirations for unity and belonging.
In response to the controversy, some Ndebele leaders have called for a cautious approach, emphasizing the need for thorough historical research and dialogue to validate such claims.
They caution against the instrumentalization of history for political gain, urging a nuanced understanding of Zimbabwe’s diverse heritage and collective memory.
As discussions surrounding Mnangagwa’s claim continue to unfold, it underscores the intricate interplay between history, politics, and identity in Zimbabwean society.
Whether Mnangagwa’s assertion of ancestral ties to King Lobengula will serve as a bridge to foster greater unity or exacerbate existing divisions remains to be seen.
Yet, it underscores the enduring relevance of history in shaping the contours of Zimbabwe’s evolving political landscape.
Lution Paunganwa (Mheta, Chikata, Svongorongo, Chirombo, Hata, Svowa) was gruesomely murdered in March 2024.
Lution was last seen alive the Wednesday he left Nyamhingura Secondary School, 6th March 2024. He was headed to Hauna with the plan to buy blood pressure medication… courier the medication via combis to his mother who lives at the family home in Honde Valley.
The late Lution Paunganwa
Lution’s body was discovered 6 days after he left the school (on 12th March 2024), by a relative passing by; dumped near a small river called Butukari not far from the Paunganwa homestead. His murderers had not only cut his life short but even cut both his feet in half!
Lution was a twin born at Seke North Clinic in Chitungwiza on 2nd May 1985. He was 38 years old at his time of passing. He grew up in Honde Valley and attended Jombe Primary School from grade 1 to 7 then attended Jombe Secondary School from Form 1 to 4, before relocating to Bulawayo where he lived with his brother. He enrolled at Denmark College for his A Levels (Form 5 and 6) then completed his Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from Africa University. He went on to complete another degree in Education (majoring in English) from Zimbabwe Open University.
Lution was an English teacher at Nyamhingura Secondary School in Mutasa North near Zindi; and had big dreams to empower the Nyamhingura Community. His mission was for Nyamhingura Secondary School to achieve an O Level pass rate greater than 70%.
Lution loved Arsenal so much… he was often pictured wearing Arsenal football shirts. Though he did not play football himself, he enjoyed the sport and supported his team Arsenal.
Lution was a gentle soul who spread joy and happiness wherever he went; especially to his elderly unwell mother, Mai Simba, whom he was very close to. Lution was entrusted with the responsibility of looking after his mother and maintaining stock of her medication. Mai Simba was so proud of her son when he wedded beautiful Danai in December 2012.
Lution left behind his wife Danai nee Masara and 3 beautiful children; Tinokunda (10 years); Makaita (6 years) and Mufaro (2 years). He was in the process of building a rural home for his family. Lution and Danai’s beautiful home remains near completion.
Lution’s body was laid to rest as per custom on Wednesday 20th March 2024 in Honde Valley. His funeral was attended by many including family, friends and the Nyamhingura Community.
Police investigations are ongoing; however, no arrests have been made.
If anyone has information about this gruesome murder please contact a Police Department nearest to you. – Submitted
By A Correspondent| Celebrated gospel musician Sabastian Magacha has lost his mother who succumbed to cancer.
Posting on his Facebook page, Magacha said his mother had a long battle with cancer and were hopeful that she would recover.
“It is with a heavy heart that I let you all know that I have lost my biological mother Mrs Magacha after a long battle with cancer. It hasn’t been a good couple of years as we did our best as a family in making sure that our mother receives treatment. As a family, we had hope that she would recover. In all this pain, we are comforted in the knowledge that she has gone to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In this time of mourning we kindly ask you all to stand with us in prayers as this would mean a lot to us. Though emotionally shaken, our faith still stands. We will be giving you more information as to how the proceedings go.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s protocol department could anger Russian President Vladmir Putin after failing to play the Russian national anthem during the handover of 48 000 tonnes of wheat and fertilizer in Harare on Wednesday, this week.
This comes less than two weeks after the team was warned by President Mnangagwa for playing a “bad” version of Zimbabwe’s national anthem at a function he was presiding over.
Diplomatic etiquette demands that both national anthems be played before the event or ceremony commenced, but the Russian national anthem was forgotten.
Russian ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nikolay Krasilnikov was not amused and requested that it be played at the end of the event, departing from the norm.
“I thank you very much for the kind attention … I hope to end the ceremony by listening to the Russian national anthem. I thank you” ambassador Krasilnikov said.
In panic mode, only the Russian national anthem was, however, played at the end, further messing things up since all two national anthems should have been played.
By A Correspondent| Opposition politician Nelson Chamisa is celebrating a new milestone after his X account reached 1.3 million followers which is the highest by any Zimbabwean
Posting o X, Chamisa said his numbers are organic meaning he did not pay or promote his account to gain followers as has become the norm with prominent politicians and celebrities.
CONGRATULATIONS! We’re now a 1,3 milion strong. And it’s organic! Thank you family for your enduring support. You are the wind in my sails. You are special! All Glory be to #Godisinit#OnePeople Blessed Friday!
By Diplomatic Correspondent- A United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean academic, Prof. Dr. Thompson Chengeta, an Associate Professor in Law and AI Technologies at Liverpool John Moores University, has been appointed a Commissioner for the Global Commission on Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (GC REAIM).
The GC REAIM is an initiative launched by the Government of the Netherlands during the 2023 REAIM Summit on Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain held in The Hague.
It aims to address the challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in the military-strategic realm.
Chengeta expressed gratitude for his appointment to the GC REAIM, saying he was looking forward to working with other 14 Commissioners and 40 renowned experts and thought leaders from across the globe on the initiative. He said:
I am honoured to join GC REAIM, as its aim to provide a much-needed platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue on military Al matches my interest in inclusive dialogue on this matter. While Al in the military domain offers opportunities for others, it raises disproportionate risks for people who, historically and at present, are often disproportionately impacted by war. I look forward to exchanging views with all stakeholders.
The GC REAIM Commissioners are Prof. Dr. Thompson Chengeta (LJMU School of Law; UN ABDM and AI Study of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights), Prof. Dr. Toby Walsh (UNSW AI Institute, Australia), Prof. Dr. Denise Garcia (Northeastern University, U.S.), Prof. Dr. Mary (Missy) Cummings (George Mason University, U.S.), Prof. Dr. Stuart Russell (University of California, U.S.), Prof. Dr. Mary Ellen O’Connell (University of Notre Dame, U.S.), Prof. Nehal Bhuta (University of Edinburgh, U.K.), Prof. Dr. Kenneth Payne (King’s College London, U.K.).
By Crime and Courts Reporter- The late University of Zimbabwe Professor Itai Muwati was buried alive after being stoned to death in the eyes of Madzibaba Ishmael at his shrine, emerged.
Muwati’s family alleges that the late Professor was fatally assaulted by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s followers, with the cult leader reportedly overseeing the attack.
Professor Muwati sided at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira. Some relatives claim he intended to leave the cult before the assault occurred.
One of Madzibaba Ishmael’s loyal followers reportedly took the academic, and he was still alive when buried.
Shortly after his demise, the family successfully exhumed Professor Muwati’s remains from the shrine’s shallow grave.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family on Monday, two years after his passing, indicate that Prof Muwati was poisoned.
After H-Metro ran a front-page story on Wednesday, March 20, Tichie D. Madiwanashe, who said the late Professor was his uncle, said:
You were beaten whilst Ishmael was seated on a chair urging his assassins to deal with you ruthlessly, I am in tears sekuru as I write.
RIP Mkrugenzi, I can imagine the horror you went through.
Continue to rest in peace Sekuru Itai, we know your murderers and justice will finally be delivered as I promised you when you visited in my dream.
We are not resting, your mine, your vehicles, cattle, hanga, chickens, matoki, chigayo chemafuta, grinding mill, gas tanks and your money they looted, they shall return.
You bought Ishmael an Isuzu KB280 when he was released from prison, you gave him your C200 Benz, helped him more than anybody else did but this is how he chose to repay you.
Just because you wanted to leave his cult.
Madiwanashe further alleged that the Professor was brutally attacked with physical objects before he was made to drink a non-alcoholic traditional brew that was laced with poison. He wrote:
We know James Takavengwa Gwenzi, Rinos Kabunu and Devlodge Phibion Katsande beat you up, we heard you fought back but stones were used to attack you, and knobkeries, you bled profusely and you were given pfuko, laced with poison.
We know they buried you alive, you breathed your last underground and Inspector Musekiwa… was, indeed, a stumbling block, however, at last, we are there, and you can now rest in peace.
We know Terrance Nhavira and Byton Andrew Muganhu are using your truck and Byton took your wife the day you were buried and your household property.
Gwenzi and Katsande have been charged together with Madzibaba Ishmael. Said Madiwanashe:
Byton took over the household property, house, kids, and wife plus the truck, the rest kuna Mambo weKenani, most projects they are doing were initiated and funded by Prof Muwati.
Other monies came from Oscar Hardware in Domboshawa, which had a stock of up to US$80 000 dollars and, for a good three months, it cashed directly to Ishmael, we hear his sons (Abedinigo and Stailodge) were behind the sales.
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused were charged with violating the Burial and Cremation Act, and also contravening the Children’s Act.
On the first count, the State is alleging that sometime in November 2023 the accused persons conducted 2 burials in respect of the late Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Chibaya at Lily Farm compound in Nyabira without burial orders.
On the second count, the State is further alleging that sometime during the period extending from 2019 to date, the accused persons being parents or guardians neglected or exposed the children in their custody and care to living conditions that caused them unnecessary suffering or conditions that were detrimental to their health. The children were not allowed to go to school or access health care services.
Zimbabwe’s top seed Benjamin Lock is through to the tennis men’s singles final of the 2023 African Games after beating Dougaz Mohamed Aziz of Tunisia in the semifinal.
PLAYERS in the dairy sector are playing their part in environmental stewardship after agreeing to recycle their packaging.
Industrial packaging contributes tonnes and tonnes of waste which has become an environmental hazard.
Various sectors are however taking a proactive approach in environmental stewardship with the dairy sector coming on board through an agreement signed in Harare this Wednesday.
“We have agreed that we are recycling all our packages that we can collect and starting as early as today we can start collecting our boxes and sending them for recycling,” said Dairy Processors Association of Zimbabwe Secretary General, Mrs Tendai Marecha.
Tetrapak Southern Africa managing director, Mr Klaus Plenge said, “Our ambition is to collect 1 000 tonnes which is really good. It is the beginning, if we can push for more that is our goal and we want to make it sustainable. We don’t want to just collect, we also want to build the whole business case and the whole value chain in recycling.”
Climate and environment experts have welcomed the recycling initiative as a step in the right direction.
“We are entering into the green infrastructure development space, creating more jobs, reducing our waste, but also having less of an environmental impact.
It is exciting to see the policies that we have been taking a step further by working with the government and with EMA to facilitate the implementation,” said Ubuntu Alliance Climate Finance chief executive officer, Ms Chiyedza Heri.
According to a United Nations Environment Programme report, it is estimated that 1.5 million tonnes of municipal solid waste is generated annually in Zimbabwe, and only 16 percent of the refuse is recycled.
The Member of Parliament for Harare Central Constituency, Hon Lovemore Jimu, voiced concerns on Wednesday regarding the escalating food shortage in the country and its impact on schoolchildren during a parliamentary session.
Addressing the Parliament, Hon Jimu pressed Minister July Moyo for clarity on the government’s response to the drought-induced crisis and the measures being taken to support schoolchildren affected by El Niño-related challenges.
Directing his inquiry to Minister Moyo, Hon Jimu queried, “What actions is the government taking to ensure that school-going children receive adequate nourishment?”
In response, Minister Moyo assured, “We have implemented targeted initiatives, including a special feeding program, to mitigate hunger.
Collaborating closely with relevant government entities, we are diligently managing the situation.”
” There is no cause for alarm; we are actively refining our strategies.
Furthermore, the President has affirmed the availability of ample food resources for all,” Minister Moyo added.
Reflecting on the parliamentary discourse, Hon Jimu remarked, “In my constituency, families are grappling with economic hardships, resulting in challenges to provide for their children.
Tragically, some learners are fainting due to malnutrition, highlighting a distressing reality.”
In a move that has sparked contrasting reactions, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) recently declared the 2024 Presidential Elections in the Russian Federation to be free, fair, and credible.
Led by ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, the delegation commended the Russian people for their peaceful participation in the electoral process and lauded the Central Election Commission (CEC) for its efficient and professional management.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing scrutiny and criticism of ZEC’s conduct of elections within Zimbabwe.
Following the 2023 polls, which saw Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF party secure victory, Chigumba has faced widespread condemnation and accusations of electoral malpractice, including rigging the elections in favor of the incumbent president and his party.
The apparent dissonance between ZEC’s assessment of the Russian elections and the criticisms leveled against its handling of domestic polls has sparked debate and raised questions about the commission’s credibility and impartiality.
On one hand, supporters of ZEC argue that its evaluation of the Russian elections demonstrates a commitment to upholding international standards of democracy and electoral integrity.
They contend that the commission’s willingness to acknowledge free and fair elections abroad reflects a dedication to impartiality and professionalism.
Moreover, proponents of ZEC point to the positive feedback from the delegation regarding the peaceful conduct and efficient management of the Russian polls as evidence of progress and competence within the commission.
However, critics remain skeptical, citing what they perceive as a glaring inconsistency between ZEC’s assessment of foreign elections and its handling of domestic electoral processes.
They argue that Chigumba’s endorsement of the Russian elections undermines the credibility of her role as chairperson and fuels suspicions of bias and partiality within the commission.
Furthermore, opponents of ZEC point to the widespread allegations of electoral irregularities and manipulation during Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections as evidence of systemic flaws within the commission.
They argue that until these issues are addressed and accountability is upheld, ZEC’s credibility will continue to be called into question both domestically and internationally.
The contrasting views surrounding ZEC’s assessment of the Russian polls underscore broader concerns about electoral governance and democratic principles in Zimbabwe.
As the commission navigates criticism and scrutiny at home, its actions on the international stage are likely to be closely monitored, further shaping perceptions of its credibility and impartiality.
Ultimately, the declaration of the Russian elections as free and fair by ZEC highlights the complex intersection of politics, governance, and perception, underscoring the need for transparent and accountable electoral processes both within Zimbabwe and abroad.
By Farai D Hove | In a jaw breaking talk, ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa has publicly announced his said direct descent from the revered Ndebele King Mzilikazi, marking a significant moment in Zimbabwe’s rich historical narrative. Speaking on his profound family connections, President Mnangagwa disclosed that his great-grandfather was an adopted son of King Mzilikazi, weaving a captivating tale of heritage, identity, and historical unity.
Mnangagwa says he is a grandson of the great King Mzilikazi TRUTH or UTTER NONSENSE
Detailing the intricate ties between his ancestry and the Ndebele royalty, Mnangagwa narrated, “Well, the background is that when King Lobengula settled here, he made a treaty arrangement with Chief Chivi, my great-grandfather, that there shall not be any war between Chivi’s people and Mzilikazi. Now, in doing that, Mzilikazi asked for a young child from Chief Chivi, who was brought here in the house of King Mzilikazi, as a little boy. That was my great-grandfather Lubengo.”
The President went on to explain the significant transformation his great-grandfather underwent, including a name change that firmly embedded him within the Ndebele culture. “King Mzilikazi then changed the name of my great-grandfather Mapanzure, to Lubengo, a Ndebele name. So, he grew up here, and after King Mzilikazi died, King Lobengula also adopted my great-grandfather as Lubengo, not Mnangagwa. He grew up here, losing his Shona language.”
Mnangagwa also highlighted the lasting impact of this adoption on his great-grandfather’s identity and language, showcasing the deep cultural integration that took place. “He could understand Shona, my great-grandfather, but could not speak our Shona. We talked to him not in the 40s in Shona, but he replied in Ndebele because he was taken, and he grew up in the court of the King.”
Upon his return to his ancestral lands, Mnangagwa’s great-grandfather embraced a new name, Kushanduka, marking a full circle in his extraordinary journey from being taken into the Ndebele royal household to returning to his roots, albeit with a new identity shaped by his unique experiences.
This revelation not only enriches the personal history of President Mnangagwa but also bridges significant historical and cultural divides, illustrating the intertwined destinies of the Shona and Ndebele people. As Zimbabwe continues to navigate its complex identity, stories such as these serve as a reminder of the shared heritage and mutual respect that can guide its path forward.
Warriors interim coach Norman Mapeza Mapeza has given an update on the squad’s preparations for the Four-nation tournament.
The national team is currently in Malawi for the invitational mini-tournament.
According to Mapeza, all selected players are now in camp and the squad held its first full session on Wednesday.
Wolves forward Tawanda Chirewa is the only withdrawal from the selection named last week.
The coach told ZIFA Media: “We only had ten players (on our first day) but most of the guys started arriving yesterday (Tuesday) around 3 pm.
“I’m more than happy because everybody is here now. We did our full session together (on Wednesday), first with some technical work and later had a three-quarter game situation.”
The gaffer added: “The guys are pushing, the desire is there and there’s a positive attitude.”
Zimbabwe will face Zambia in their first match at thetournament in Lilongwe, Malawi on Saturday.
As A Beep From Nature we always want to remind everyone that Climate Change is not a daily thing its a life time routine which we as humans are worsening it.
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Zimbabwe’s top seed Benjamin Lock is through to the tennis men’s singles final of the 2023 African Games after beating Dougaz Mohamed Aziz of Tunisia in the semifinal.
The activist, Hopewell Chin’ono (HC) conducted a nation address in a spaces discussion on Sunday the 25th of February 2024, that was hosted by a colleague of his based in the United Kingdom better known as Uncle Ged(GB), and who runs by the name Gerald Belts. The session lasted over six hours as Chinono announced some very strong and sometimes totally contradictory statements while saying among other things that:
1. Zim politicians, Nelson Chamisa, Robert Mugabe, Emmerson Mnangagwa do not want to be accountable. Regarding his own issues, he said people shouldn’t ask him (Chinono) to account for the GBP50,000 loan he got from a UK dealership in 1996 to buy his first home. He said it is nonsensical for people to expect him to name the dealership he alleges made him property rich.
2. He said Nelson Chamisa is a product of the military who advised Tsvangirai to appoint him in Thokozani Khupe’s stead… Evidence of him (Chin’ono) advising the military minister VP Chiwenga to descend on Chamisa/Civil Society since 2019 comprises fake audios.
Written admissions by Hopewell Chin’ono’s work with the military leadership to reduce polical tension by regularly descending onto the civil society.
3. He said Nelson Chamisa would have destroyed the country if he’d won 2023 elections… He denied advising the Ministry Of Defence to destroy Nelson Chamisa’s party, saying he did not advise the military minister/head VP Chiwenga to ‘destroy the civil society’ – that is, to descend on Chamisa/Civil Society since 2019.
The following was his full talk:
HC: Thank you very much, uncle Ged and thank you very much to everyone who is on this space , those that are here anonymously I welcome you too. I think it is important for me to start by saying that this conversation that I am having with you today is a National conversation I want to talk about the state of our national politics. It’s not an opportunity for me as a journalist to attack anyone, it is not an opportunity for me as a journalist to bash anyone, but the work of a Journalist is to reflect on what is happening in your country and some of the reflections you might not like them, but that is the nature of our work as (a Journalist), and that is the nature of human beings as well that we don’t have to agree on everything, but we don’t have to be disagreeable by this by being disagreeable. I mean that we don’t have to descend into calling each other names, insults and so forth. So what I’m going to be saying is based on how I see things. I would like to start by saying that where we are today was formed by history, so we cannot avoid the history the political history of our country because it is what has given birth to what where we are today.
We are a country in dire straits. We are a country that is broken both from the citizen side and also the state’s side; some might say I won’t be pushing it to say we are a failed state because we can’t provide healthcare for our citizens. We can’t provide good schools for our citizens we can’t provide decent roads for our citizens we can’t provide clean drinking water for our citizens. We can’t provide decent roads for our citizens even the pensioners are not getting paid.
Whatever they’re getting is very minimal and if you look at how they have worked so hard for the past 40 years. I’ve got a very good friend of mine who died Tuesday. Years ago, Professor Kahari we owe him all his money, was wiped out by Old Mutual. The country is not working at all. And otherwise, but our crisis in Zimbabwe manifests itself through economics.
The politics is bad but it manifests itself through economics and what I have always said is that the crisis in Zimbabwe can be based or best described as the crisis of corrupt government because all our problems they find route in state corruption, whether it is hospitals if it is council, whether it is roads, whether it’s basic things like water it’s all finds its roots in corruption so we have a corruption problem in Zimbabwe which is sponsored by politics and it manifests itself through economics which is why we have the highest inflation rate in the world, which is why our local currency lost 95% of its strength in the past 12 months and it affects ordinary people in the streets, and it is these ordinary people in the streets that are more concerned than the political elite or the business elite, so when I speak in my every day runs or whether it is tweet or Facebook or Instagram my heart is with the poor people that goes other people I care about, and those are the people that are bearing the brunt of the political crisis in Zimbabwe all these other people, including the political, elite and so forth do not suffer.
The indignity that our people are suffering so when we defend politicians whether it is Zanu PF or opposition politicians, we must remind we must be reminded that the people that we should be actually be caring about the poor people and not spending our time boot licking, political elites.
So I want to start from the late 90s or mid 90s I want to use myself as an example of the people that were around me that saw that things were not going to work. One of my relatives was very higher up in Govt in the 90s, when I finished, journalism school, said to me, you get out of the country that was in 1994 and I said why? Because at that time I was making money and I thought things were hunky dory, but errm, she had the foresight that I did have as a young man. I was 21 years old when I left Zimbabwe for Britain in 1994, and I understood what he meant when I got to Britain because the opportunities that were available for me and many others that were in Britain and I have seen some couple of guys that were me in Britain with me in the 1990s they can allude to the fact that you could just walk in the bank into a bank and apply for loan.
A lot of Zimbabweans went into truck business; a lot of Zimbabwe that were in England went into trucks borrowing money. I remember going to Coventry Peter Ndlovu was popular that time. Because I think there was a trucking company that he had good relations with; and a lot of people would say, oh, I’m going to see Peter I want to buy trucks and some people became millionaires through that; opportunities which were not necessarily available to people that were back home.
We saw our moment at different times. I saw it in 1994, some saw it in 2000, some 2008 and so forth. So in 1997, the currency collapsed; in 1998, In 1999, we went into the DRC and we were spending over $1 million a day fighting the DRC war. The spoils of that war were supposed to come to the Zimbabwean people, the gold, the diamonds, but they were pocketed into private pockets of Zanu PF elites and military elites, so the war became purposeless to the ordinary citizens because state machinery was used and state funds were used, but the returns from that war went into private pockets, and that is when the World Bank and the IMF disengaged from Zimbabwe dealing with Zimbabwe, because the Robert Gabriel Mugabe government did not want to release the figures that reflected what it was spending in the Congo and contrary to what some people say, sanctions were not imposed in relation to the World Bank and IMF in 2001, they were a, Zimbabwe pulled out, Mugabe pulled out because he did not want to be accountable, a trait that we see in our politics and a trait that needs to end if we are going to get somewhere.
So the opposition is formed in 1999, I remember the NCA which gave birth to the MDC: Brian Kagoro contested against Morgan Tsvangirai, Morgan Tsvangirai won, and then he became president of MDC and errrm, in 2002, when they realised that the MDC was a potent force after it managed to mobilise against the constitutional Reform Process document in 2000, the military became involved in a blatant way. In the past it was involved from the back, but it was now at the front when general Zvinavashe announced that they would not salute anybody who did not take part in the liberation struggle.
I must say that, although they were saying that Morgan Tsvangirai, who was in Zanu PF, was a ZANU PF cadre before all this. In fact, he worked hand in glove with Albert Mugabe, who was a Trade Unionist and Mugabe’s half brother, and so most of this elderly generation, older generation, their roots were in Zanu PF, but they were dissatisfied with the rule of Zanu PF, and most of them became the opposition that gave birth to everything that we got to know about in the past 24 years . Errr in 2005, it’s an important milestone, or rather not milestone, but it’s an important point an aberration for the opposition because that is when the first split of the opposition happened and this split it’s about Professor Welshman Ncube who was secretary general; vice president Sibanda and involved, David Coltart, Trudy Stevenson and many others; aaah, they left because the constitution of the opposition had been violated; the president of the opposition, Morgan Tsvangirai had refused to adhere to the vote results of the national executive council.
They were voting whether they should participate in the senatorial elections: the other side said yes, the other side said no. The no side was represented by Morgan Tsvangirai. The yes side is the one that eventually left with Professor Welshman Ncube and others; the constitution had been violated; at this point, we then realised that Zimbabweans are not actually different. They are the same when the constitution is violated. They don’t care as long as it is their favourite who has violated the constitution when the constitution is violated by someone they don’t like they bring a constitutional issue when the constitution is violated by someone they like they say no it’s okay we can move on we can it doesn’t matter up to that day for many of you who were young at that time you see arguments advanced, but you still supporting the Morgan Tsvangirai’s failure to adhere to the constitution, but to some of us, we said, but if you are constitutionalists, if you say you are fighting to change the constitution of Zimbabwe because you’re fighting because to make sure that Govt to the question if you can violate your constitution when you’re opposing what can stop you from violating your own constitution like the way Zanu PF is doing, but anyway, needless to say they moved on the other one became MDC the other one MDC Morgan Chirara they became political parties with sentence and then we moved to 2007 in March, Morgan Tsvangirai was beaten badly, and this gave life to the opposition, because at this point in time, the opposition was now being perceived, as weak, they were being perceived to be out of touch and regional leaders were not taking them seriously until Zanu PF does what he does best to create an own goal.
They beat up Morgan Tsvangirai badly; it was splashed around the world and it changed the dynamics of politics. We were now heading into the 2008 elections which took place in March 2008 button in Zanu PF. There were also problems -they were fighting each other. There was general Mujuru, who was fighting pushing for Robert Mugabe’s retirement, and Robert Mugabe was pushing back, Mugabe won that battle against General Mujuru at the Goromonzi , Conference or Congress I can’t remember, but anyway he won that battle and they went into an election.
And of course we know that Mavambo was formed by General Mujuru, who was the backer of Mavambo. Robert Mugabe lost the election as we came to know later, when he had a Freudian slip, he exposed himself, and it is on tape then in 2008, something happened, which I’ve never seen it happened, reported and I want to say Zanu PF has always been adapt at using counter intelligence using people so what they do when they used counterintelligence they will go to an opposition, political leader and and they will give information to somebody this person will then give you nine stories about what’s happening and these nine stories will be correct, but they will be of no relevance at all so you may just be told that old man someone is going to be fired. I just decided to tell you so Morgan Tsvangirai; I became attached to these people because he thought that they are my young man, and one of them was Wicknell Chivayo with Chivayo was the one who went to Tsvangirai and said, old man, he was to be killed, take this money and run away, but what had happened is that the state Zanu PF machinery was afraid that if Morgan Tsvangirai had stayed in the country, people would’ve mobilised around him, rejected what ZEC was trying to do with the results and and go to the streets and just make the country ungovernable because, for the first time, Robert Mugabe had lost, and he had accepted that he had lost, but he had played around with the numbers to say that I’ve not lost enough, for me to become president, so Morgan Tsvangirai, against the advice of so many people people like Ibbo Mandaza were saying that you can’t go, but he was now saying I’ve got my young man who told me that they want to kill me and he went against the advice.
When Morgan Tsvangirai came back, we got an exclusive at that time, I was an journalist with ITV news covering Zimbabwe and other countries, and I got an exclusive to fly with Morgan Tsvangirai back for the first time, coming back to form a Govt, but to finish off the talks and to formalise them under president Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, and so I flew to South Africa at the instance of, at the instigation of my boss Tim Singleton who is now the head of news at Sky News.
And I got to South Africa and Morgan Tsvangirai at that time was very good friends, and being assisted by Strive Masiyiwa, who at the time owned the daily news, and of course, owned Econet as well, and I remember when we were flying out with Jameson Timba flew into OR Tambo, and we met him in the diplomatic lounge, and he said old man they want to kill me. At least he is alive to confirm this story, and I was amazed
Because I could see that counterintelligence had been used they had been infiltrated, and they were given information such that the main pillars around Morgan Tsvangirai, Jameson Timba and….(sic) at that time are afraid and they are put on the run so that the system can do what it wants to do and anyway we had a GNU. The basis of this GNU was to make sure that there is reforms; reforms that had created the crisis that we had, but unfortunately our colleagues in the opposition went into government and they did not focus on the main or rather core business of the GNU which was reforms.
They became obsessed with power. I remember when it was in 2012, I flew into Barcelona to interview Cherie Blair, Tony Blair’s wife for the film that I was making with an American Director and I did not realise that Morgan Tsvangirai was going to be at the same event as a key note speaker with Cherie Blair, and he saw me in the hotel in the hotel lobby and said young man, what are you doing here? Come here; and he instructed Jameson Timba, who was minister in his office to say he must come to my dinner, and I went to the dinner, and we had a discussion, a private discussion.
It was private because it was in confidence, but what I observed was that they had been sucked into the false belief that they were now in charge that they now had power, state power, but I believe that Robert Mugabe did this deliberately to give them a false sense of hope that things were going to be changed while and ZANU went to the underground and start planning. And this is what Zanu PF actually did. It ran a parallel Govt where it was getting money from Chiadzwa, the 15 thousand that Bob talked about, and Biti was being deprived, although he managed to steer the ship away from the rot, but the econom didn’t grow; the economy was stabilised; they were able to start. I remember that time I was able to take money out of my new Barclays Bank ATM and life became fairly stable, not too great for the ordinary people, but it became relatively stable but anyway we were headed into the 2013 elections.
The reforms that were the only specific reforms that it taken at that time was the constitution which was passed in 2013 February, but the rest had not been done and the region was worried about it and specifically President Jacob Nzuma, who has been and was the only president in the region who has been such a close friend of ZIMBABWE, including assisting them they were too. it was him, and there was PRESIDENT, of Bwanya, who couldn’t do much material, but under President Zuma and President Zuma Zimbabweans got the permits, but with the president, he said we are doing this to give you papers, and the Maputo Summit that took place was the last summit before the election, and President Zuma mentioned that without reforms you are done, don’t take part in elections without reforms and Prime Minister Tsvangirai didn’t listen to this advice and I remember Mrs Zulu who was a government minister in the South African government was so insisting that there must be a boycott if there are no reforms, and she really supported Zimbabwe to appoint that Robert Mugabe called her as Street Woman, a prostitute. I think some of you remember that that is how much the Jacob Zuma government tried to help us, but we couldn’t help ourselves, and in that year 2013, Prime Minister Tsvangirai said no, one of my lieutenants Nelson Chamisa told me that there’s a prophecy that I’m going to win this election, I’ve received a crown into State House; I should go into the elections, we will win them regardless of whether they are reforms, but as we all know the opposition lost but up to now they don’t know how 2013 was right then the next stage was what was then called renewal senior members in the MDC like to die like Elton Mangoma, they came up and said no, you have let us into an election which we were not supposed to go into.
We have lost; you should now give us a timetable of, and of course MorganTsvangirai didn’t take that lightly and you know they had to leave. Tendai, and Elton was beaten badly and blood and they left; that was the second split, but the split was not as significant as the first one, because the first one, the other guys came from, most of them came from Matebeleand, so there was an ethnic aspect, to it, so it was actually damaging to the opposition. Much less the Tendai Biti one it was not based on ethnicity. It was based on values people saying we need to do this and that there was no ethnic component. Whereas the 2005 was so difficult because there was an ethnic component to it, if these guys had come together in 2008 reconciled as they wanted to, things would’ve been much tougher for the Zanu PF government. You see, rigging is very easy when it involves a political party
without a lot of people who are heavyweights it is very easy as I shall explain later; so fast forward we go to 2014 when the MDC had its constitution; popular Nelson Chamisa was running for Sec General. He was rigged by Morgan Tsvangirai,
Morgan Tsvangirai pushed for Mwonzora. For the secretary General, I think Nelson Chamisa had 9 provinces out of 10 but he was worried to get out of it and Morgan Tsvangirai did accept privately to a lot of people that he did it. The issue was that there are people around me who were saying that this young man has become power hungry; that’s why we had to take that action, but I have mentioned that action because that is when the seed of Mwonzora was planted. The Secretary General could have been Nelson Chamisa. We don’t have the benefit of knowing what could have happened and then in 20 I think it was 2015 if not 2016 MorganTsvangirai was approached by elements of the military, it’s important to mention that the opposition were always had elements of the military, which it talks to, and I’ve always argued to them that these people are managing you as opposed to helping you, but anyway, the opposition was approached. Morgan Tsvangirai was approached – one of the people that he spoke to is still alive, General Rugeje.
They were advised that well, we are not saying that you are going to die, but your political party is a very important institution in Zimbabwe. Although we are on the other side; but we care about what happens to your party if you die; it means that this Ndebele woman is going to take over. We cannot have a situation where this woman takes over, so you need to take care of your stuff. So the advice was given; some of the things are going to be for books but advice was given and he appointed Nelson Chamisa he appointed Mudzuri and there were factions.
And some of the factions said that the way you are now running the party you are now doing it among yourselves, as the Karangas. You yourself are a Karanga, and he said no, that is not it. We are trying to manage there is a situation that I need to manage and anyway Morgan
Tsvangirai became very ill as we all know he died in 2018, February 14; there was confusion because the constitution said that Thokozani Khupe Is the one who is supposed to take over because she was elected at Congress the other two were illegally appointed, and Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri. So, when Nelson Chamisa took over because he was the popular figure in the party and some of us at the time; I remember having a conversation with Nelson Chamisa. This one is not confidential. I remember saying to him does not happen for people to take overpower after six months. In my view. If I were you, I would actually let Thokozani Khupe go to the polls, and she will lose, because these men are not going to give up power after six months. Nelson understood this because Nelson had been the conduit between the Zanu PF side, and the Morgan side, leading up to the coup. The MDC was involved in the coup. They failed to agree on how they were going to share the spoils. And that is how they ended up, not being included, but they were part of the coup starting from 2015, to 2016, they were there when these discussions were taking place. They were part of it, and this is one of the things that infuriate me because we are meant to believe that we are the coup stars, we celebrated the coup, and yet the opposition political movement was part of the coup before we even knew about the coup ourselves, they were part of it. But there is so much deceit in Zimbabwean politics, that people want to pretend. In fact, the lawyer who got the coup to be declared legal was Thabani Mpofu in court. But all these things are sort of pushed aside, because they they are inconvenient truths, but that’s the truth. If we are going to have a nation that can build itself on the basis of the truth, we need to tell the truth for what it was regardless of how unpalatable that truth my be.
I regret myself, and I apologised at the time For supporting the coup because I thought that that there was going to be a break, and in fact, thousands of people went into the streets, not because of the coup as such but because they were so fed up of Mugabe and they thought that anything that can bring relief to Zimbabwe should be welcome; the coup for it to be successful the opposition had to take part. In fact the motion for the impeachment, the impeachment to remove Mugabe was moved by the opposition, so I think it is disingenuous for the opposition or opposition supporters to pretend as if this did not happen; but these are the facts and this is what happened. But anyway, the election happened, we know what happened, we know that our compatriots were killed, we realised that no, this is not a new dispensation. This is the same old dispensation what has changed is the driver the truck remains the same the system remains the same and for me as a journalist I have learnt that contrary to my previous perception before the coup that even if Mnangagwa is removed, the system is what needs to be removed, not just an individual.
But anyway, Mwonzora and Madam Khupe did what they did and the party headquarters of the opposition was taken and all that stuff.
Now fast forward to 2021, December we were having conversations a lot of my conversations are in confidence, so I can’t share them but the ones that I can share that have been made public by the other people that were in these conversations are the ones that I’m going to share so one of these conversations that was made public was made by Nelson himself is the fact that people like myself and Dr, Alex Magaisa are the ones that pushed him to say you need to form a new political party. Nelson did not want to form a new political party. He wanted people to run as independent or to go in as MDC and we said you can’t, because the court has made a ruling and they will just take these things away from you, and he confirmed these things at Dr Alex Magaisa‘s funeral or rather memorial, so the party is formed.
All this stuff is happening. It starts off as a party where everyone was the way they were in the previous party. People are being called vice president people are being called secretary general then somewhere along the line things changed and the thing that changed was changed without consultation to others. They were just told that this is what it is so this and some of us knew ahead of time because we had been briefed as J
journalists because we were told that this is the situation because you were tweet (sic) a lot of journalists encountered this. They would write an article and then they would get a phone call to say you can’t you can’t refer to so so as vice president, our party does not have a VP. We only have a president.
So that was the undoing in my view, and I am happy to be pushed back on this one by others who have better ideas, but that was the undoing of the opposition as it headed towards 2023 because you now had a very strong opposition, but which was now being undone by all these internal fights. You are no longer the secretary General. I remember someone was told on Twitter that our party does not have a secretary general; We don’t have this so it became a party that is about one person and one thing I can say publicly is I remember I did speak to Nelson Chamisa and I said, no my friend you know you need to work with everyone else, I can’t share what he told me because it was in confidence, but I want to put it on record that I told him that you can’t do what you’re doing it is damaging to the party. And I sold this, I will give a few examples when The gentleman who was killed in, I think his surname was Ncube. He was killed in Kwekwe. I fundraised the money, the money that was used to bury the gentleman, but through that fundraising I then realised that not having the leadership structures that we needed it. It was each time that I assisted the opposition. I did it publicly, and I declared that I am doing this because I am fighting corrupt.
I am not doing this because I’m a member of the opposition but I’m doing this as a Zimbabwean citizen and each time we fund raised money there was a fight because there was no structured leadership. In fact, some of the money would disappear, and then I would then call Nelson Chamisa to say Mr President, this is what has happened, can you fix this thing; and then I reminded I think it was around 2022, around August September I reminded him that the problem we are facing now is that we have to keep coming to you for everything, errrm, I should be going to David Coltart, I was meeting a lot of Zimbabweans in London; in America, who were saying to me Mkoma Hope, we want to donate; how do we donate and I said I can’t take your money and I remember going on Twitter saying that I’m in America. Many people were offering me money. Please don’t offer me money I will not take any money, your money needs to go to the party that you want to support, and this again I realised that the failure to have structures because Coltart was no longer the Treasurer General, there was no treasurer, so if you had to deal with anything and anyone you had to go to the President and I think it was unhealthy. It was an unhealthy situation and I think it contributed to whatever made the opposition fail to be successful. I am one person who likes not to focus much on what Zanu PF does on the opposition, because Zanu PF does what is expected of it to do. I don’t care what Zanu PF does because I know that Zanu PF is going to rig elections.
Any sensible person knows that ZANU PF is going to rig elections.
So if you expect Zanu PF to do otherwise then you become the problem; what we need to do is to focus on what to do to stop Zanu PF from rigging elections, and at that time I felt the machinery that was round Nelson Chamisa was not sufficiently equipped to push back ZANU PF from what it was doing. At the forefront, where people like Ostallos, people like Chibaya and others, but up to now, I still think that they are not sufficiently equipped, even if they form another new party and they remain the way they were CCC. The new party will remain the same. The new party will be rigged in 2028 and people like myself will not even participate because as I had predicted in 2023, and got insults and all sorts of stuff as I had predicted everything that I predicted to the teeth, but people do not want to be honest and say I think we were wrong here, I think we could have done things differently here. I think the biggest problem that we face is failure to accept the truth to say this is the problem that we are facing. How do we deal with it and we move forward we insult each other. We call each other names. They are people that are on Twitter to insult people day in day out, and I don’t think it is healthy because you end up building a very strong group of people supporting something but not sufficient enough to make that something win anything in an electoral contest and when we push people away other people away, we push people of talent away. There are a lot of Zimbabweans who have got a lot of talent in the diaspora that I speak to that; Speak to …as Zimbabweans and they tell me that Dude I want nothing to do with this. I can’t be dealing with people that insult others who call others, names and all that, but that’s what we are and I think that we need to fix it at times. I’ve been guilty of that so I know exactly what I’m talking about so there was no leadership structure. There was no collective decision-making. there was no constitution and if you wanted or today if you wanted to donate money to triple C, or to Nelson Chamisa‘s new outfit Who do you give that money to nobody knows I’ve got a lot of business people who are coming to me I had to phone Nelson Chamisa he knows it I’m not lying I can refer to things that I can share. I had to phone him and say I’ve got so and so who want to give such and such amount of money who do I give the money to somebody is sending money and you saw you guys before the elections all the money I would tweet about it because I wanted accountability but on the other side when you give money you don’t know what happens and then you hear people complaining and those are some of the issues that we couldn’t say at the time because we didn’t want to say things that would we can the opposition. We were saying things that we thought would strengthen the opposition And so some of the examples that I want to give that I could see were caused by failure to have structured leadership is that I got 10 ambulances and 10 fire engines in the United Kingdom I called Nelson Chamisa when I was with the mayor of that city we discussed the things there was no structured leadership to push that thing through and those fire engines never came through. They were given for free I got a radiotherapy machine to treat cancer in California. I then approached President Nelson Chamisa as he was called then I gave him a paper on it. I wrote a paper for him and say this is how you can do it. Nothing came out of it I got dialysis machines 40 from a Zimbabwean, who is based in Birmingham in the UK in the NHS, but nothing came out of it And I said to him you need to have somebody who specialises in health issues and I even spoke to skilled labourer about it, and I said this is the problem that we face every time I spoke to skilled labourer the company in California said we don’t want to speak to politicians. We want to speak to Nelson Chamisa’s advisory Council so that we can see how these things go to Zimbabwe, and there was no advisory council and it was embarrassing for me because it was something we had been talking about even with Dr Alex Magaisa, saying that this is what we need an advisor council around the President so that they can do with expert related issues which cannot be dealt with by the present of a party. I think for now I have said enough, but I want to end this part by saying for Nelson Chamisa; He remains the most popular politician in the country and a lot of his supporters always come to insult me why do you always talk about Nelson Chamisa- because he is the main opposition leader we cannot avoid talking about Chamisa or Mnangagwa. We talk about Mnangagwa every day because he is the main ingredient in Govt. We talk about Chamisa every day because he is the main ingredient in the opposition. You will have to be foolish to ask someone why they keep talking about the main ingredient in something so we talk about him in everything every day because he is the ingredient and so for Nelson Chamisa to remain relevant, he must accept and address the weaknesses and I am glad that some of the weaknesses have been mentioned by people around him that but need to be addressed if he wants to remain relevant to win an election. y
You can be relevant but not win an election; And it adds no value, because the idea of running an election is to win it, not just to have big numbers of people following you or having big rallies. They don’t mean anything if they are not transformed into taking State power, and going to state House because that is what we were fighting for, and I’m sure that is what we have been fighting for because we want our lives as Zimbabweans to be transformed; so if he doesn’t transform himself; if he doesn’t change; if he doesn’t accept his weaknesses, he will never defeat Zanu PF because that is how it is. We might try to sugarcoat things but he will never defeat Zanu PF as one man in his party and some friends he will never defeated, as CCC was constructed; you could tell, and some of us were saying it but of course we were insulted, but I hope with the benefit of 2023 hindsight now understand because it is very easy to rig against a one-man party. You just need to target that one man and everything falls apart; but if you have a lot of heavyweights around you even if some are bought you can’t buy everyone, but in a one-man party, you can just buy that one man and then that is the end of that show and the whole country will be behind that one man, but if you have a party with 20 strong people at the leadership, you can’t buy 20 people and take advantage of their greediness and I think I’ve got two more points that I want to add then I can just pass onto to you.
Chamisa would have destroyed the country if he had won 2023- Chinono.
The third aspect, which I will call third, and half is that in the unlikely event that Nelson had won unlikely I’m going to explain because it was going to be impossible to win the election. The way it was structured the way that was FAZ. We cannot deny the fact that the election was stolen. Nelson can win any election any day, but he needs to have an infrastructure that can protect the vote and make sure he goes to State house if someone wins an election as a one-man if Nelson Chamisa had won and been inaugurated the possibility of destroying the country was there because if you can’t respect your constitution or if you don’t believe in one because you say infiltration and then you run away from your party because of infiltration it just shows how some of these things as citizens we need to reflect in our homes and say what actually happened; so if a man wins an election on his own, without the pillars of leadership around him, that person has the potential of destroying the country as well, because he will go as he ruled his opposition party, that’s how he will govern. People don’t just change because they are now in power so it is important for us and if he doesn’t change, it’s up to us as Zimbabweans to say to ourselves whether they want to continue with the election charade from 2000 to 2002 to 2005 to 2008 to 2013, to 2018, to 2023 and now to 2028, aaah, as things are at the moment, I don’t have any hope as things are at the moment, unless something dramatic happens and people come together and say you know what let’s do. What is good for our country let’s not be part and let’s fix things so thank you very much, Uncle Ged.
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At the forefront, we have people like host (sic) people like to buy and others, but up to now I don’t think they are sufficiently equipped even if they form another party and remain the way they were the new PARTY will face the same problems. The new party will be rigged in 2028. It will just be a waste of time and people like myself will not even participate because as I’ve predicted in 2023, got in South and all sorts of stuff as I have done everything that I’ve predicted to the teeth happened, but people because Zimbabweans we are not honest we don’t want to accept that we were wrong here we could’ve done things differently here. I think the biggest problem that we face is the failure to accept the truth. In fact, this is the problem that we face how do we deal with this and we move forward we insult each other. We call each other names.
There are people that are on Twitter just to insult people day in day out and I don’t think it is healthy because you end up building a very strong group of people supporting something but not sufficient enough to make that something win anything in an electro contest and when push other people other way away you push a lot of talent away, there are a lot of people who have different talents across the diaspora that I speak to across Zimbabweans and they tell me that all you know Mate, I don’t want to have anything to do with this. I can’t be dealing with people that insult people call each other names, and things like that that is who we are we need to accept and I think the most important thing is to say let’s fix it at times. I’ve been guilty of that as well so I am not exception. I am no exception to that, so there was no leadership structure. There was no collective decision making there were no institutional processes, and if you Wanted TODAY to donate money to triple C, or to Nelson Chamisa, you wouldn’t know who to give that money to nobody knows, I have got a lot of people a lot of business people who want to give money and I had to phone Nelson Chamisa and tell him I’ve got so and so they have given me X amount of money who do I give that money to somebody sending money?
And we saw you guys before the elections all the money I had to tweet about it because I wanted accountability but on the other side when you give the money you don’t know what happens to the money and then you hear people complaining and those are some of the issues that we couldn’t say at the time, because we didn’t want to say things that we can make the opposition.
We were saying things that we can strengthen the opposition and so some of the examples that I want to believe that I could see were caused by failure to have structured leadership is that I got 10 ambulances and 10 fire engines in the UK. I called Nelson Chamisa when I was there and the mayor of the city. There was no structure to push those things that were given for free, I got a radiotherapy machine to treat cancer in California. I then approached President Nelson Chamisa as he was called then I gave him a paper on it. I wrote a paper on him and say this is how you can do it. Nothing came out of it. I got dialysis machines 14 from a ZIMBABWEAN in Birmingham who is in the NHS, nothing came out of it because there was no structured leadership and I said to him my brother we need to have somebody Who specialises in held issues and I even talk verbally about it to say that this is the problem that we face at the time that I talked to skilled labourer, I said we don’t want to speak to politician.
We want to speak to Nelson Chamisa’s advisory council, and there was no one there to handle that; it was embarrassing for me because it was something that we were talking about with Doctor, Alex Magaisa that we need these sort of advisory people around the President so that they can deal with these expert related issues which cannot be dealt with by the president of the political party and even now I have said enough, but I want to add this part to say that you know for Nelson Chamisa in the most popular politician in the country and a lot of his supporters all of the country always insult me.
Why do you talk about Nelson Chamisa it is because he is the main opposition. We cannot avoid talking about Nelson Chamisa or Emmerson Mnangagwa we talk about Nelson Chamisa every day because he is the main opposition leader in the country. We talk about Nelson Chamisa because he is the main greet in the opposition you will have to ask somebody to find out why they keep talking about the main ingredient in the country. So for Nelson Chamisa to remain relevant, he must accept and addressed the crisis and I am glad that some of the issues have been mentioned by people around him, but they need to be addressed. If he wants to remain relevant to win an election. You can be relevant but not win an election and it adds no value because the idea of running in election is to ruin it, not just to have big numbers of people Following you at big rallies, they don’t do anything if they do not transform into you taking stake, power interstate because that is what we are fighting for and I’m sure that that is what we remain fighting for because we want our lives as Zimbabweans to to be transformed, so if he doesn’t transform himself, if he doesn’t change, if he doesn’t accept his weaknesses, he will never defeat Zanu PF, because that is how it is. We might try to sugarcoat things, but he will never defeat Zanu PF because as a one man PARTY, he will never defeat Zanu PF as CCC was constructed you could tell and some of us were saying, and of course we were insulted at the time, and I hope at the 2023 hindsight people can understand because it is very easy to rig against a one-man party.
You just need to target that one-man party that one man and everything follows apart but if you have got a lot of heavyweight around you even if some are bought, you can’t bring that down if you decide to be bought as one person that will be the end of the party of 12 people 20 people at the top of the leadership you can’t buy 20 people and take advantage of their greediness and I think I have got two more points that I want to add Uncle Ged, the tent aspect, which I will call third, and a half is that in the unlikely event that Nelson had won I call it, unlikely because it was going to be possible to win that election because of the way it was structured FAZ.
But he needs to have an infrastructure that can protect the vote and win the way to state House if Nelson Chamisa had one and he had been inaugurated the possibility of destroying the country was there as well, because if you can’t respect the constitution as I have always said if you don’t believe in one, because you say infiltration and then you end up running from the party because of infiltration, it just shows how some of these things as citizens we need to reflect on them in our homes and say what actually happened so if a man wins an election without the pillars of leadership around him, that President has potential of destroying the country as well, because he will govern as he wrote his opposition party … so if he doesn’t change, it’s up to Zimbabweans to make up for themselves if they want to have a leadership from 2008, 2005 to 2018 to 2023 and now to 2028 as things are at the moment, I don’t have any hope as things are at the moment, unless something magically happens all people come together and say let’s do something that is good for our country; so thank you very much uncle Ged.
………………………..……………
-Hopewell Chin’ono refusal to be accountable
Hopewell Chin’ono refuses to account over the name of the company that he says gave him a £50,000 sportscar loan in 1996 which he says made him rich enabling him to purchase his first ever immovable property.
HC: Politics has been so toxic. It has been so toxic that brothers and sisters hate each other and yet they are fighting the same animal. You know, eeeh. And and and, I have shared my frustration with my relationship with Professor Brilliant with Zhangazha. I have said to Zhangazha, you know, Brilliant is errm, we belong to the same Institute, eeeh, Tutu fellowship, Africa leadership institute. We went to Oxford together at different times.
We need to relate. We are Zimbabweans we might differ on certain things you know, we should never, we should never fight each other to the point where we belittle each other where we insult each other we are brothers at the end of the day you know, it is just like back home in the rural areas we can, we can sit on the fire and disagree, to support different parties. But, we shouldn’t get to a point where we can’t engage with each other.
GB: Right. And also, I have received so many questions I am not realising now I have received so many questions.
HC: No, no, please please, these questions, I’m ready to answer them. We don’t do this every day.
GB: Let me, I want to acknowledge the people that I have added, I will come to you Gari. There’s a question here that says ask when he last spoke with Chamisa was it way before the leaked audios that is one question and then another one is saying.
Hopewell Chinono(HC): I want to address the issue of the audio, which Simba-Chikanza of ZimEye keeps bringing out. That is, that that.
GB: On top of that is there is the question of the safe houses as well, reported that you reported to Chiwenga, you know, if you can put that together.
Hopewell Chin’ono (HC) Yes, yes yes, that question that’s a ghost account of Simba-Chikanza asking you and I am happy to answer, it let me answer it. Aah, the first question is that Simba knows very well that those audios were doctored. Ah. They don’t represent a conversation that happened; but the most important thing is that I think I hope I will be able to look for it, but anyway, what Simba keeps posting that I exposed people it’s a lie. The what happened was that I was taken to have a conversation in 2018 which I publicly talked about. In that conversation there was the British ambassador, the EUAmbassador, a Congolese businessman called Kala Mpinga, vice president Chiwenga, and then we were taken to the president of the country, Emmerson Mnangagwa. It had nothing with all this bullshit that Simba posts about. Simba has gone to a point of asking me to account for a car that I drove 30 years ago, LAUGH LAUGH LAUGH, I assume that people have common sense you know. Eeh. And and and, and, so, in that regard I was never going to answer all this nonsense uncle Ged, but, you know if you ask me to account, eeh for a car that I pot, bought 30 years ago because you hate me so much, you don’t like me you know, you hate me so much. Eeh I have more money in my current account than all those figures that he talks about and that money I can account for it, so I think it’s very petty as Zimbabweans to really, you know, imagine if I get into an argument with Kuda Musasiwa over something else, and then I start asking him to account for a car that he bought 30 years ago.
I start asking him to account for a house. You know I’ve been asked to account for my house more than 1000 times ago, more than a thousand times I mean, not ago, eeh, the British embassy has had to issue a public statement that I am not a fugitive from justice but that is how petty Zimbabweans are. Erin, I will post it right away.
Just use freedom of information to get the information you need, we all know Hopewell lived in Slough and was involved in credit card fraud, he can only fool those who are gullible isu zvigogodera haana nyaya, he isn't what he says he is, put @ITV to the task
— Flight Lieutenant Tashinga Pswarayi MP (@TashingaPswara1) February 28, 2024
The British embassy has had to issue a statement to say “Hopewell Chinono is not a fugitive from justice in Britain,” but in a country that has no single working radiotherapy machine that has no clean drinking water that has no decent roads, that has no pensions for its pensioners, every day Simba-Chikanza tweets about the sports car that I drove and he lies about how I am a fugitive from justice and all that it’s a shame; it’s a shame because it shows the rest of the world; I want to tell you Uncle Ged, I want to tell you about how this is so shameful. I was invited for coffee, aah in PARKTOWN NORTH in Johannesburg by Geoff, who is the correspondent of the Canadian Globe, aaah in Johannesburg and he said to me, you know, aah, let’s have drinks, aah, Jeff York and he said to me this guy drink keeps writing about you. What’s going on? Is everything okay but this is how the rest of the world sees us, as a people. You know, you are chasing after a 52 year old guy and you asking him to account for how he bought a house for 60,000 in Chisipite. You’re chasing after a 52 year old guy and you’re asking him to account how he bought a Toyota Supra in 1996 and today is 2024. I have never worked for Govt. I don’t earn public funds. I have never stolen anything from the state but a whole supposedly website spends two years chasing after a guy asking him; what if I tell you that I have £3 million in my account today, that I have worked for that I can account for that has been paid into that account by British institutions like ITV news that I have worked for and you’re asking me about £50,000 when I have £3 million in my account; when I live in a 4 million eh, eh Rand house in Johannesburg; when I live in a US$600,000 house in Harare and the whole struggle is reduced to talking about how a man bought a car worth US$50,000 or pounds 30 years ago ; It just shows how petty we are. It shows how.
GB: But, eh, why don’t you engage him in that aspect in a conversation?
HC: no no no no I’m never going to do that uncle Ged.
GB: because we are now being caught in a crossfire no no I think what we need to do. I think
GB: what we need to do so we host both of you?
HC: no no no no I think what we need to do a sensible people is to focus on sensitive sensible issues. If we start degenerating into, into these stupid things, then there is no reason why foreigners have to respect us because if we can’t respect ourselves, why do we expect strangers to respect us?
GB: right, so on that issue your clarification when it comes to those issues that he has raised…?
HC: No there is no clarification. I just said, I just said things in passing. I don’t owe that guy anything, as I said to you, I am not a public figure. I have more money than he talks about. I have no obligation to tell anyone how I have earned that money I have never worked for Govt. I’ve worked my whole life for private media. You know who I have worked for. If you think that what I have I didn’t earn it to go to ITV news. Those are my employers. Those are the people that were paying me money if you think that I did not earn what I have got like I live in a nice house and I don’t deserve it go to ITV news. Those are my employers, they say it publicly that they employed me. Why should, I mean, your grandmother stays in the rural areas and she doesn’t even have a pension, she doesn’t even have medication, and you want to know how I bought a car 30 years ago, come here on Uncle GED, let’s move on.
GB: LAUGH LAUGH LAUGH. Others will be saying isn’t it that a crime does not expire, Apologies, but it is hard; but anyway there is also a question here
HC:I think there’s a guy called Tino. The Village Boy I had blocked him. I have unblocked him.
GB: I think he wanted to ask something no no no he was here. He has actually asked a question, so in the spirit of unblocking people which is quite good. Okay there is there is a question here it is being said it is being asked. Are you going to apologise to Nelson Chamisa privately or publicly and move onto build a greater Zimbabwe?
HC: I have no reason to apologise to my brother Nelson because everything I said was based on facts, and eeeh, what that person needs to do is to come and say to me what you said about Nelson or about CCC on this particular instance is wrong and here are the facts.
I have no reason to apologise to politicians. I never apologise to politicians. Nelson Chamisa and all the other politicians and I talk to all of them. Today today today, eeh, eeh, I went to have my haircut and and the person who told me where I could get my hair cut was Saviour Kasukuwere I am in Johannesburg at the moment. And, and and I talk to all of them and I don’t hide that.
I talk to Saviour Kasukuwere, I talk to Welshman , I talk to Nelson Chamisa, I talk to Nkosana Moyo. Nkosana Moyo has been to my home in Zimbabwe , has been to my home in Johannesburg. These are my brothers these are my sisters.
I was speaking to Tadini’s president, Valerio, she sent a message to say I owe her a response. I speak to everyone these are Zimbabweans. You know we should not intimidate each other by saying, don’t talk to so and so, don’t talk to so-and-so because our resolutions only come from all of us to put together. This idea, politicians lie to you.
They say don’t talk to someone so but they talk to so, so I know it so President Nelson Chamisa will never say to me. Don’t talk to so and so but because he is the guy who told me to talk to everybody. So why shouldn’t I talk to? If you come to South Africa you see President Raposa talking to Julius Malema you will see him talking to Hellen Ziller. You will see him talk to Steenhuisen. Why shouldn’t I not to talk to my brothers and sisters? I will talk to Tadini. I will talk to Makomborero. I will talk to Nelson. I will talk to even to ED. I will talk to him, I have no problem. You see, our lack. I think we need to introduce politics as a subject at high school, so that people understand what it involves. If you go to ENGLAND today, this animosity does not exist. Yeah you know and Zanu PF has allowed people to hate each other and do things but what you don’t know is that these people at night they do things together….
By Crime and Courts Reporter- University of Zimbabwe Professor Itai Muwati was stoned to death in the eyes of Madzibaba Ishmael at his shrine, emerged.
Muwati’s family alleges that the late professor was fatally assaulted by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s followers, with the cult leader reportedly overseeing the attack.
Professor Muwati sided at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira. Some relatives claim he intended to leave the cult before the assault occurred.
One of Madzibaba Ishmael’s loyal followers reportedly took the academic, and he was still alive when buried.
Shortly after his demise, the family successfully exhumed Professor Muwati’s remains from the shrine’s shallow grave.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family on Monday, two years after his passing, indicate that Prof Muwati was poisoned.
After H-Metro ran a front-page story on Wednesday, March 20, Tichie D. Madiwanashe, who said the late Professor was his uncle, said:
You were beaten whilst Ishmael was seated on a chair urging his assassins to deal with you ruthlessly, I am in tears sekuru as I write.
RIP Mkrugenzi, I can imagine the horror you went through.
Continue to rest in peace Sekuru Itai, we know your murderers and justice will finally be delivered as I promised you when you visited in my dream.
We are not resting, your mine, your vehicles, cattle, hanga, chickens, matoki, chigayo chemafuta, grinding mill, gas tanks and your money they looted, they shall return.
You bought Ishmael an Isuzu KB280 when he was released from prison, you gave him your C200 Benz, helped him more than anybody else did but this is how he chose to repay you.
Just because you wanted to leave his cult.
Madiwanashe further alleged that the professor was brutally attacked with physical objects before he was made to drink a non-alcoholic traditional brew that was laced with poison. He wrote:
We know James Takavengwa Gwenzi, Rinos Kabunu and Devlodge Phibion Katsande beat you up, we heard you fought back but stones were used to attack you, and knobkeries, you bled profusely and you were given pfuko, laced with poison.
We know they buried you alive, you breathed your last underground and Inspector Musekiwa… was, indeed, a stumbling block, however, at last, we are there, and you can now rest in peace.
We know Terrance Nhavira and Byton Andrew Muganhu are using your truck and Byton took your wife the day you were buried and your household property.
Gwenzi and Katsande have been charged together with Madzibaba Ishmael. Said Madiwanashe:
Byton took over the household property, house, kids, and wife plus the truck, the rest kuna Mambo weKenani, most projects they are doing were initiated and funded by Prof Muwati.
Other monies came from Oscar Hardware in Domboshawa, which had a stock of up to US$80 000 dollars and, for a good three months, it cashed directly to Ishmael, we hear his sons (Abedinigo and Stailodge) were behind the sales.
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused were charged with violating the Burial and Cremation Act, and also contravening the Children’s Act.
On the first count, the State is alleging that sometime in November 2023 the accused persons conducted 2 burials in respect of the late Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Chibaya at Lily Farm compound in Nyabira without burial orders.
On the second count, the State is further alleging that sometime during the period extending from 2019 to date, the accused persons being parents or guardians neglected or exposed the children in their custody and care to living conditions that caused them unnecessary suffering or conditions that were detrimental to their health. The children were not allowed to go to school or access health care services.
By Diplomatic Correspondent- resident Emerson Mnangagwa’s wife, Auxillia has missed the United Nations conference on women’s rights in New York after failing to secure a visa.
This comes amidst recent sanctions imposed by the United States against Mnangagwa and his wife, citing allegations of resource plundering and human rights abuses.
While foreign leaders and their spouses subject to US sanctions are typically permitted to travel to the United Nations headquarters in New York – considered international territory – they may face restrictions and monitoring.
The 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women commenced on March 11 and concludes on March 22.
Auxillia was scheduled to speak at a side event on March 18, but her daughter-in-law, Leya Travis-Mnangagwa, who is married to Emmerson Junior, delivered her speech instead.
Leya serves as a director at the first lady’s Angel of Hope Foundation.
Although the United States embassy did not provide a comment, diplomatic sources suggested that the foreign ministry submitted visa applications late for Zimbabwean delegates, including the first lady and female provincial ministers.
“I understand there were visa complications with late submission of applications,” remarked a western diplomat to ZimLive.
Despite Auxillia’s absence, Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, Permanent Secretary Mavis Sibanda, and Senate President Mabel Chinomona attended the conference.
Speculation arises that the visa denial could be retaliation after four officials from the US development agency USAID were recently detained and expelled from Zimbabwe on espionage charges.
US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller condemned the treatment of the officials, emphasizing the importance of accountability from the Zimbabwean government.
In a March 19 post on X, the first lady mentioned being “invited as guest of honour at the Zimbabwe event on the sidelines of the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women in New York in recognition of my contribution to the empowerment of women and girls,” while sharing pictures of her daughter-in-law speaking at the event. However, she did not provide reasons for her absence.
Warriors interim coach Norman Mapeza Mapeza has given an update on the squad’s preparations for the Four-nation tournament.
The national team is currently in Malawi for the invitational mini-tournament.
According to Mapeza, all selected players are now in camp and the squad held its first full session on Wednesday.
Wolves forward Tawanda Chirewa is the only withdrawal from the selection named last week.
The coach told ZIFA Media: “We only had ten players (on our first day) but most of the guys started arriving yesterday (Tuesday) around 3 pm.
“I’m more than happy because everybody is here now. We did our full session together (on Wednesday), first with some technical work and later had a three-quarter game situation.”
The gaffer added: “The guys are pushing, the desire is there and there’s a positive attitude.”
Zimbabwe will face Zambia in their first match at thetournament in Lilongwe, Malawi on Saturday.
FACT 1: Causing an estimated ONE IN EVERY NINE deaths worldwide, air pollution is the greatest environmental threat to human health.
FACT 2: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for an estimated SEVEN MILLION premature deaths worldwide every year.
FACT 3: Air pollution affects us adversely in so many ways, from our mental health, to heart and lung functions, causes high blood pressure, can lower life spans and increased risk of asthma.
We need decisive action to stop perpetuating unnecessary human suffering!
Take against against this now ? https://bit.ly/43rSbbU
IQAir
Source : Greenpeace Africa
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Let’s join hands in the fight against the effects of climate change…
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In a move that has sparked contrasting reactions, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) recently declared the 2024 Presidential Elections in the Russian Federation to be free, fair, and credible.
Led by ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, the delegation commended the Russian people for their peaceful participation in the electoral process and lauded the Central Election Commission (CEC) for its efficient and professional management.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing scrutiny and criticism of ZEC’s conduct of elections within Zimbabwe.
Following the 2023 polls, which saw Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF party secure victory, Chigumba has faced widespread condemnation and accusations of electoral malpractice, including rigging the elections in favor of the incumbent president and his party.
The apparent dissonance between ZEC’s assessment of the Russian elections and the criticisms leveled against its handling of domestic polls has sparked debate and raised questions about the commission’s credibility and impartiality.
On one hand, supporters of ZEC argue that its evaluation of the Russian elections demonstrates a commitment to upholding international standards of democracy and electoral integrity.
They contend that the commission’s willingness to acknowledge free and fair elections abroad reflects a dedication to impartiality and professionalism.
Moreover, proponents of ZEC point to the positive feedback from the delegation regarding the peaceful conduct and efficient management of the Russian polls as evidence of progress and competence within the commission.
However, critics remain skeptical, citing what they perceive as a glaring inconsistency between ZEC’s assessment of foreign elections and its handling of domestic electoral processes.
They argue that Chigumba’s endorsement of the Russian elections undermines the credibility of her role as chairperson and fuels suspicions of bias and partiality within the commission.
Furthermore, opponents of ZEC point to the widespread allegations of electoral irregularities and manipulation during Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections as evidence of systemic flaws within the commission.
They argue that until these issues are addressed and accountability is upheld, ZEC’s credibility will continue to be called into question both domestically and internationally.
The contrasting views surrounding ZEC’s assessment of the Russian polls underscore broader concerns about electoral governance and democratic principles in Zimbabwe.
As the commission navigates criticism and scrutiny at home, its actions on the international stage are likely to be closely monitored, further shaping perceptions of its credibility and impartiality.
Ultimately, the declaration of the Russian elections as free and fair by ZEC highlights the complex intersection of politics, governance, and perception, underscoring the need for transparent and accountable electoral processes both within Zimbabwe and abroad.
In a disturbing display of political violence, members of Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), a Zanu PF affiliate, reportedly assaulted Tawedzerwa Runyowa, the only CCC councillor for Chivi District in Zimbabwe.
The incident occurred in broad daylight, in front of parents and school children, as Runyowa attempted to attend a school meeting at Madyangove Primary.
FAZ, known for its violent tactics and alleged interference in the 2023 elections, has once again demonstrated its disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.
The accused, led by Kudzai Chidewe, confronted Runyowa at the school premises, accusing him of causing trouble for the ruling party and disrupting their agenda.Despite the severity of the assault and the brazenness of the attack, the perpetrators have thus far evaded accountability.
The case was reported at Chivi Police station, yet Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa claimed ignorance of the incident.
This lack of response from law enforcement authorities raises serious concerns about their commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of citizens, particularly those in opposition.
Runyowa’s harrowing account of the assault sheds light on the pervasive culture of intimidation and violence that plagues Zimbabwean politics.
Dragged into a bush and subjected to physical violence, Runyowa faced threats and intimidation simply for exercising his rights as an elected representative and a concerned parent.
The fact that he was targeted solely for his political affiliation further underscores the dangerous polarization of Zimbabwean society.
As the only elected opposition candidate in Chivi, Runyowa symbolizes the resilience of democratic forces in the face of tyranny and oppression.
His bravery in standing up to intimidation serves as a reminder of the importance of defending democratic values and protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their political beliefs.
The failure of authorities to swiftly and decisively address this incident not only perpetuates a culture of impunity but also undermines the credibility of Zimbabwe’s democratic institutions.
Without accountability for such acts of violence, there can be no assurance of a free and fair electoral process, nor can there be genuine progress towards reconciliation and national unity.The international community must not turn a blind eye to the deteriorating human rights situation in Zimbabwe.
It is imperative that pressure is exerted on the government to uphold the rule of law, ensure the safety of its citizens, and hold accountable those responsible for acts of political violence.
Only through concerted efforts to promote accountability and respect for human rights can Zimbabwe hope to achieve lasting peace and stability.
Felistas Murata, commonly known as Mai Titi, has publicly appealed to prominent Zanu PF businessman Wicknell Chivayo for assistance in the form of a new car.
Chivayo has garnered attention for gifting cars to pro-Zanu PF individuals, sparking discussions regarding the source of his wealth.On her Facebook page, Mai Titi wrote:
“Dear Sir Wicknell, would you kindly consider providing me with one of those Aqua cars? I could use it for deliveries of FeliGlow Skincare. Some have labeled me as a Zanu PF supporter, and while I appreciate the gesture, I seek your support as well.”
Additionally, she stated:”My apologies for the interruption. Could someone assist me with Aqua from FeliGlow Skincare deliveries? It seems I may have missed out on Vhikita’s announcement; could someone kindly direct me to the relevant page?”
Mai Titi’s plea has sparked online debate regarding Chivayo’s philanthropic activities and the nature of his financial endeavors.
Former Opposition MP Fadzayi Mahere has strongly criticized Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for its meager compensation of University of Zimbabwe lecturers, providing only US$2.60 per hour, an amount scarcely enough to purchase a single packet of biscuits.
Mahere, herself a law lecturer, expressed her dismay in a statement on Wednesday, denouncing the practice as insulting.
Mahere’s statement highlights the inadequacy of hourly wages for lecturers, pointing out the failure to account for the extensive time spent on lecture preparation, research, attending academic conferences, writing papers, commuting, and providing student assistance.
She questions the fairness of compensating lecturers for extracurricular activities such as coaching moot court.
Emphasizing the need for comprehensive remuneration that respects the demands of academia, Mahere calls for a reevaluation of the current compensation system and urges for new leadership to address these issues.
See Mahere’s statement below :
Paying an hourly rate to a lecturer is actually insulting. (Never mind that the rate is a degrading US$2,50.)
Who will pay for the time spent researching to deliver a lecture? Are they aware that you can spend four hours preparing to give a 2 hour lecture? What about time spent attending academic conferences and writing papers? What about the time spent travelling to and from class? What about the time spent seeing students who need help after class? Who will pay them for extra-curricular work like coaching mooting?
If you’re going to go the hourly billing route, go all the way.
University lecturers deserve decent pay and benefits.
Turmoil and Tragedy Surround Figure Edwin Hukama Amidst Allegations and Violence Linked to ‘Apostle’ Talent Farai Chiwenga**
By Dorrothy Moyo | Sandton- In a complex and disturbing narrative emerging from a series of events involving Edwin Hukama, a media professional closely associated with high-profile religious leader ‘Apostle’ Talent Farai Chiwenga, details of alleged assault, theft, and prophecies have come to light through leaked voice notes.
Edwin Hukama, previously embroiled in controversy for allegedly leaking photos of ‘Apostle’ Chiwenga’s house last year, has faced brutal repercussions. Reports indicate that following the leak, Hukama was subjected to a severe assault by ‘Apostle’ Chiwenga, a figure whose relationship with Hukama was once seen as close, given Hukama’s role in media relations.
The saga took a darker turn earlier this year when Talent Chiwenga, known for his spiritual inclinations, made a prophecy predicting the imminent death of a believer. This announcement has shrouded Hukama in further mystery and intrigue.
Adding to the turmoil, just two weeks ago, Hukama became the victim of a violent robbery in South Africa, where he was stripped of personal items including two phones and a camera. Despite their previous close association, ‘Apostle’ Chiwenga reportedly did not visit Hukama in the hospital, signaling a significant rift in their relationship.
In a separate but related twist, another key individual connected to the same circle, known only as Nelson, has reportedly fled to Zimbabwe. Nelson, described as a top aide, is now believed to be in hiding after receiving threats to his life if he returns to South Africa. The threats stem from his possession of sensitive information regarding the alleged assault of seven women, coupled with his involvement in the release of photographs of ‘Apostle’ Chiwenga’s residence.
Nelson’s disappearance has further fueled the fire of controversy, especially as he is said to be central to the prophecy made by Hukama, predicting a tragic demise.
This story is unfolding amid a backdrop of allegations, fear, and mystery. The exact motivations and truth behind these allegations remain unclear, and the situation continues to develop. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Efforts to get a comment from ‘Apostle’ Talent Farai Chiwenga were fruitless as his phone was inaccessible, and it is believed he has changed his phone numbers.
JANUARY ARTICLE BELOW…
Talent Chiwenga's secret girlfriend, Tariro Mafuka (left) he secretly married in 2015, over 4yrs before the 120km per hr speed rush accident in the Masvingo-Mvuma strip rd that killed his wife, Rejoice (right). He says uniformed CIO's have crossed the Limpopo into SA to kill him pic.twitter.com/LMUxWiPNlq
This is Talent Chiwenga’s secret girlfriend, Tariro Mafuka (left) he secretly married in 2015, over 4yrs before the 120km per hr speed rush accident in the Masvingo-Mvuma strip rd that killed his wife, Rejoice (right). He says uniformed CIO’s have crossed the Limpopo into SA to kill him
The preacher Talent Chiwenga announces that it is okay to bed ones brother’s widow, without marrying her (video below). LIVE DISCUSSION COMING UP SUNDAY 5PM-60M UK TIME (HOWARD NYONI)
…7 Months Running (review)…
ARTICLE PUBLISHED ON 15 SEPT 2021
“If we thought it’s not possible for a person to sacrifice his wife for powers so their church grows, that’s what Chiwenga did. If he wants to deny that, I’ll download everything that’s happened in his face,” Talent Chiwenga’s mother in law alleged as the accused defended self saying,” God will vindicate me.”
The damning allegations were made early 2021 and have seen the preacher respond saying God will vindicate him, and then threatening her to retract the statement failure which he will institute legal action within 4 weeks. What happened after the mother in law defied the threats and continued boldly speaking?
When ‘Apostle’ Talent Chiwenga was challenged concerning alleged adultery by his own mother in law, he unleashed lawyers using fake threats after his late wife’s mother, and a ZimEye columnist, Howard Nyoni, the legal summons which are below…
the papers served against Talent Chiwenga’s mother in lawThe last page of the legal threat to Talent Chiwenga’s mother in law.
as also revealed by Howard Nyoni, shortly before CHIWENGA deployed a British ‘Law firm’, through summons which claimed Nyoni is a former church adherent who is now disgruntled. (Nyoni is a veteran analyst who for years has participated in successful prosecution of church sex predators in UK and Zimbabwe),
Talent Chiwenga also began claiming Howard Nyoni is a disgruntled former member of his cult, JRM- Jesus Revelation Ministries, when such a thing has never happened. Nyoni was a panelist in a news discussion with Chiwenga in Nov 2017, during the times Talent Chiwenga was seeking publicity through the news network.
Page 1 of the legal threats against Howard Nyoni
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Part of the legal threats against Mr. Howard Nyoni
One of the young girls Talent Chiwenga raped is his own wife’s younger sister, Tariro Mafuka (+27 62 583 1***, we release the number as there is a criminal investigation for murder), he later secretly married more than 3 years before the accident that killed his wife, Rejoice. He would after that date, secretly drive her back to Zimbabwe from South Africa where she has been since the secret marriage, years before.
Sought for a comment over the last 3 years, Talent Chiwenga has declined responding only to resort to video streams on his church portal where he has constantly avoided the issue of his sex attacks against women and his overspeeding in Masvingo road which killed his wife, Rejoice.
In his first accident, in which he has accused Emmerson Mnangagwa, he was rescued by a top notorious ZANU PF he calls a good Samaritan, Mr Seviyas Piki, and in the 2nd one, he was rescued by an unnamed driver in a white vehicle that quickly whisked him away from the accident scene.
ACCIDENT IN NORTON: Source alleges Talent Chiwenga was taken away by a white car from the scene within 10 minutes from the accident, and left everyone else at the scene. Contacted for a comment, Chiwenga's PA Pastor Baloyi confessed ignorance. He told ZimEye,"I am not aware…" pic.twitter.com/RYXukBt0co
The below is a full compilation of Talent Chiwenga’s own words between June and November 2019 speaking on LIVE camera giving details on his allegations.
In his own video, recorded inside hospital less than a day after the accident, the preacher loudly says that he was speeding (in a 60km speed limit zone) at 120 kmeters per hour and he even wanted to accelerate beyond 120km for no other reason other than to rush to Harare and purchase a new fan belt for his car. No one was chasing after him. He then collided with an oncoming haulage truck and three people died as a result of the collision (accident video below).
Speaking during a church service, Talent Chiwenga said, ” I had a friend in Eugene Kanyuchi. I am sure many of you you know him. He served me in the work of Christ in the protocol department. And I had Mai Vhurumuko, and I think you all know her, you all knew her. VIDEO ( The story continues below)…
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
“I faced death with those 2 people for as long as they were in the ministry. A week before we drove to South Africa I sat down with both of them and I said to them- you are following me everywhere I am going, I am in danger because in those three weeks before the accident we had a lot of incidents where death threats continued to come.
“I am sure you still remember at First Street when there was a message that came: run away they are going to come to kill you. And I said I am not going to run. Because I cannot run away from death death is something that nobody can run away from. So I sat with her husband and Mai Vhurumuku, and Baba Vhurumuku is not here, he works outside the country, and I told them there is death that is imminent; we knew about it it, we wrote a letter to president Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“And I told them that I was going to deliver that letter. The two of them, they volunteered to go with me, and I said if I don’t come back what happens to you?
“They said we will then not come back all of us. Vari vaviri, Baba Kanyuchi naMai Vhurumuku, ndaiti ndakavaudza kuti Vhangeri iyi ine vavengi vakawanda, ichasvika panguva yekuti tichafanirwa kuifira, vaiti, ” we are ready to die for the gospel.”
“Hapana anga aine rwendo rwekuenda kuSouth Africa pahu two hwavo. They volunteered to go with me. Three times in South Africa Thursday, Friday and Saturday, I saw a vision somebody was pointing a gun at me and I was being shot. And I was dying in that vision and then I was seeing myself dying when I was standing on the other side, and I told Baba Kanyuchi, I told Mai Chiwenga, this is what is going to happen, I am not comfortable something is about to happen. And they said let the will of the lord prevail.
“Our greatest challenge is when that time comes in our lives are we going to be holding our faith like they did? That is why we cannot count their departure, as a loss, it is not them that lost, it is us who lost. We lost an opportunity to go in good time, murikundinzwa here vadikani? Takashaiwa mukana wekuenda, zvichakanaka. So I just want to remind you that the people that do not believe do not understand their level, their carnal level, their corruptible level, their crooked level, we know what you are aiming for, we know the Lord, we know the Lord is coming. We know we shall be vindicated. We know we shall be justified. We know the gospel is going to go on. We know nobody is going to stop the gospel. We know nothing is going to stop the gospel.
“Not even the murderers, not even the politicians. Not even the CIO, not even the army, they will not stop this gospel. They can kill me today but they can’t kill the gospel.
“Tell your neighbour: they can kill me today but they can’t kill the gospel. The gospel cannot be killed because not even a bullet can reach close to the gospel. It is spiritual it is not physical.
“The AK47 kana CZ Pistol, inogona kuuraya nyama, asi mweya haigone kuuraya. So we just want to observe a moment of silence, but I want us us to first of all read this whole passage, in Phillipians chapter 1, let me read it up to verse 30. And then we observed a moment of silence to remind ourselves that there is a burden that lies squarely on our shoulders, to uphold the faith and to the very end, like our comrades did. They are our comrades, they are our heroes. They are heroes of faith, they stood firm for the gospel, and we have got to do the same. If we walk away from the faith, we are disappointing them. Hallelujah, Jesus is counting on us to stand firm unto the very end. For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
What happened after the mother in law defied the threats and continued boldly speaking? Nothing happened to her, and the legal papers were never actioned.
By A Correspondent| Mai Titi has become the first woman socialite to beg controversial businessman Wicknell Chivhayo for a car.
In justifying her case, Mai Titi said she is often ridiculed and mocked on social media as a Zanu PF wh*re.
“Nhai Sir Wicknel havangondipeo Aqua yacho ndikaitamadeliveries eFeliGlow Skincare ingawani ndinongonzi hure reZanu veduweeee ????.Ndangoti ndinyoreo ka history kanguo. Veduweeee ndidairireo hanty munogaronditi hure reZanu ndisiseio palist ndatendakune vachabatsira,” posted Mai Titi.
Chivhayo has gifted musicians, celebrities and socialites with cars ranging from Mercedes Benz, Toyota Hilux and Toyota Aqua in a move that has attracted widespread condemnation from pro-opposition activists who feel the gifts are misplaced especially with hospitals struggling to operate due to shortage of medication.
Among the female beneficiaries of Chivhayo’s misplaced generosity to date are Sandra Ndebele, Dorcas Moyo, Chaplin Phiri and DJ Fantan’s wife and mother among others.
The list of male personalities is much longer with his latest beneficiary being Mavery very, a Mutare based comedian who got a Toyota Aqua.
Mai Titi has a love- hate relationship with social media users especially due to her association with the ruling Zanu PF which she at times praise much to the chagrin of opposition supporters.
It remains to be seen if her plea will be received and actioned by Chivhayo who has to date blueticked Sniper Storm, Ricky Fire and Culture Love.
Chivhayo has also ignored pleas to give a car to Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria and DJ Fantan.
Former First Lady Grace Mugabe last week allegedly confronted Local Government minister Winston Chitando over the cancellation of title deeds for an 8003sqm² land bought by her niece Farai Mashonganyika, and demanded that the deeds be restored.
Mashonganyika, a former member of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, allegedly bought the land for US$4000 in Carrick Creagh, Borrowdale, Harare, in 2011. This translates to about 49 cents per square metre.
Mashonganyika has approached the High Court over the cancellation of her title deeds by the minister, and has allegedly roped in her aunt, former First Lady, into the matter.
According to a reliable source, Grace called Chitando on Saturday trying to coerce him to withdraw his opposing affidavit against Mashonganyika’s application against the cancellation of the title deed. The minister cancelled the title deed for Mashonganyika after the property developer advised that it was fraudulently acquired as the cost was far less than the market price of US$20 003.
ln her application at the High Court challenging the cancellation , Mashonganyika cited the Ministry of Local Government as the respondent. She submitted that she purchased the land in 2011 for US$4000.
“l received and purchased land from the respondent through an agreement which was entered into between myself and the respondent being Stand 91 of Carrick Creagh , Borrowdale, Harare ,for which I paid a sum of US$4000 as the purchase price in 2011,” she submitted.
Mashonganyika added: “I subsequently proceeded to pay the purchase price levied by the respondent, and thereafter I was issued with a title deed which was registered under Deed of Transfer Number 5690/2011. I wish to bring the court into confidence and disclose that I also made a payment of US$10 000 to a property development company in 2009 which had misrepresented to me that it had the authority to sell the properties before I was directed to the respondent, to whom I made additional payments to.
“I received notification through the Government Gazette and The Herald which were published on 4th, 11 and 18 of November 2022, that the respondent intended to cancel my title deed and invited me to make representation against the cancellation, to which l made representation through my legal practitioners.”
Mashonganyika said after that she heard nothing from the Local Government ministry until February 6, 2024, when she was served with a notice advising her that her title deed was cancelled by the minister under case number HC700/24.
However, in the opposing affidavit filed by Chitando on March 13 this year, the minister accused Mashonganyika of not joining the developer Arosume Property Development Pvt Ltd saying they are the ones who can confirm or deny that she paid the development costs. Chitando also submitted that the court could not make a determination without hearing the side of the developer which had not been joined in the application.
“The court cannot make a determination without hearing from the developers. The ministry can only answer to the issue of the intrinsic value. The development fees were to be paid in accordance with the tripartite agreement and the developer would confirm payment of such to this honorable court.
“I therefore pray that the matter be dismissed with costs,” Chitando said in his affidavit.
He added :”The applicant received and purchased stand from the developer Arosume Property Development Pvt Ltd. The ministry, Arosume Property Development Pvt Ltd and Sally Mugabe Housing Cooperative had a tripartite agreement for the development of residential stands in Carrick Creagh,Borrowdale, Harare.
“The stand in question does not fall within the commonage list. There is,therefore, an assumption that she might have been a cooperative member or an individual identified by the developer himself.
“It also means that she was, therefore, expected to pay for the development of the area as stipulated in the tripartite agreement. Even if she was a cooperative member or from the developer, the agreement is clear that they ought to pay their fair proportion of development of the area.
“The ministry, however, conducted a valuation exercise for purposes of collecting the intrinsic value cost and it clearly shows that the stand was valued at US$20 003.
“The anpplic alleges that she paid only US$4000 only which was a breach for non- payment of intrinsic value to government,” Chitando submitted.
“The applicant cannot prefer to ignore the fact that the valuation was communicated to all individuals before they have their lease agreements processed. It would be absurd to state that one can buy such an asset without knowing the full purchase price and the terms and conditions related thereto.
“The ministry is not even aware how a whole title deed was processed when the full purchase price was not paid.”
Chitando said the ministry received a request from the developer to cancel the title deed for the land as Mashonganyika had failed to honour her obligation in terms of payment of the development fees.
The Minister said his predecessor July Moyo issued a notice of intention to cancel dated April 5, 2022, and Mashonganyika on April 13 responded to the notice objecting to the cancellation of the deed in which in her response alleges that she got the stand from the commonage list as she was a civil servant among other issues.
Chitando said it should be noted that the stand does not fall within the category on which she relies on. The minister also submitted that Mashonganyika was not honest to say she was not advised of the cancellation of the title deed during the meetings she had with the ministry.
The minister submitted that Mashonganyika’s application has no merit saying the stand in question was not a commonage stand as she alleged.
” She failed to pay the full intrinsic value for the stand as per the valuation report. This non-payment was a gross breach of the contract between her and the ministry. Even if one is to imagine that a stand in Borrowdale measuring 8003 square metres going for USD$4000, it would be a fantasy.
“The only remedy for the applicant is to engage the respondent and make good her payments. The ministry was prejudiced of income from the sale of the stand and cannot lose the much-needed revenue,” Chitando said.
In a shocking incident at an African Seventh-day Adventist church, Kadoma assembly the pastor stole 200 pairs of shoes from a congregant and put them on sale.
Learnmore Rupiya (41) was dragged to Gweru magistrates courts yesterday where he appeared before magistrate Nixon Mangoti.
Mangoti sentenced the pastor to two years behind bars and conditionally suspended the sentence to 350 hours of community service.
The court heard that on March 9 a student at Midlands State University (Dylan Maregere) left his 200 pairs of shoes in the church.
On the same day around 2300 hours, the pastor entered the church through the back door and stole the shoes.
He gave them to a vendor for resale and the vendor was arrested by detectives after a tip-off.
The vendor implicated the pastor who told the police that he took the shoes through the back door.
The shoes were valued at $4000 and only $2000 was recovered.
Political Reporter- President Emmerson Mnangagwa is planning to bribe MPs to endorse the extension of his presidential term.
ZimLive reports that Mnangagwa is considering extending his second and final term by at least two years, pushing it until 2030.
This shift in plans occurred after he decided not to pursue the abolition of term limits through a constitutional amendment, which would have necessitated a public referendum.
Section 91 of the constitution outlines qualifications for presidential candidates. It explicitly states that an individual is disqualified if they have already held the office of President for two terms, regardless of whether those terms were continuous or not.
Section 328 (7) of the constitution further restricts incumbents from benefiting from any constitutional amendment that extends the length of time in office.
In other words, even if ZANU PF was to amend the constitution to allow third terms, Mnangagwa, as the incumbent, would not benefit from such an extension.
The legal precedent set by the case of Mupungu v Minister of Justice and others (CCZ07/21) sheds light on this matter.
In that case, the court ruled that prescribed term limits cannot be extended to apply to sitting incumbents without contravening section 328 (8) of the constitution.
Mnangagwa is allegedly considering granting MPs and senators an extension of their existing five-year terms.
The aim is to garner their support for a constitutional amendment that would delay the 2028 general elections by at least two years.
According to the report, despite external pressure, the 81-year-old Mnangagwa appears hesitant to step down from power.
His associates, fearing potential repercussions from his likely successor Constantino Chiwenga (the current vice president), worry that their predominantly corrupt business networks may be dismantled, leading to legal consequences. ZimLive quoted a source as saying:
The slogan ‘2030 va Mnangagwa vanenge vachipo’ is not about a third term because a third term is an order too tall to climb, but it also is not about nothing; it is about something, so what is it about?
This is a most closely kept secret in the party, 2030 is not about a fresh term, it’s about extending the current term for everyone who was elected on 23 and 24 August 2023.
Basically, it is about moving the next harmonised general election from 2028 to 2030.
This would be similar to the changes that happened in 2008 when the term of MPs was reduced by two years, albeit under the old constitution.
This planned constitutional amendment would increase the terms of everyone who was elected in 2023 to be up for reelection in 2030, not in 2028.
2030 is taking advantage of the government’s ‘Vision 2030’ programme to give the incumbent an extra two years, which sits well with his age than would a third term.
The ZANU PF youth league is set to spearhead the campaign to keep Mnangagwa in power while his close loyalists from politics and business, including the controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, are reportedly mobilising funds to bankroll the campaign.
Political commentators say when Mnangagwa said “2030 ndeendichipo,” he was expressing his commitment to remain in power until the year 2030.
The phrase translates to “I will still be around in 2030” in ChiKaranga (a Shona dialect) and the phrase signifies his determination to continue leading the country beyond his current term.
By Staff Reporter- The Ministry of Education has extended the Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees deadline by two months.
Initially, the deadline was this Saturday, March 23, and is now the first week of May, a move that provides adequate time to raise the funds.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo told legislators in Parliament yesterday that the Government had taken heed of concerns from legislators and parents, who had said they were failing to meet the deadline initially set by the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec).
The issue of examination deadlines was topical during yesterday’s Question and Answer Session in the National Assembly. Legislators said that owing to the El Nio-induced drought, parents were struggling to beat the deadline for payment. Some examination centres have set the deadline for today. “The official deadline for November examination is March 25, 2024. However, because of the request from Members of Parliament, I have consulted the board of Zimsec and we have agreed to extend the deadline up to the first week of May. If I am correct, it should be the Friday of that first week,” said Minister Moyo. There has been anxiety and fears that several pupils would not be able to register as candidates due to failure to mobilise resources. Earlier on, legislators heard that Government had adequate social protection measures on students who were unable to pay tuition and examination fees and also for those at universities. At primary and secondary level, Government has introduced the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) for disadvantaged learners. It has unveiled loans for those at State tertiary institutions, administered by financial institutions. Furthermore, “work for tuition fees” programmes have been introduced where those students at universities and colleges unable to pay tuition fees should come forward and work at their institution in lieu of their tuition. This was said by Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, as Leader of the Government Business in the House, and Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, while separately responding to related questions. There had been concerns that many learners at schools and students at tertiary institutions were being barred from writing examinations over non-payment of fees. In response, Prof Murwira said payment of tuition fees was inevitable either by the State or by parents. He said with respect to tertiary education, students should use a loan facility from financial institutions or work for fees at their institutions. Prof Murwira noted that there had been a low uptake of loans. “On access to education, education is not free; we have to pay for it. The public has to pay for it or the State. “However, we recognise that people are differently abled in terms of capacity to pay. We have several programmes for students that include ‘pay for fees’ and about 300 students have benefited. “CBZ is also providing loans and we have put money for that. It seems people do not want to borrow. There is a low uptake in taking this money,” said Prof Murwira. He said the university system was automated and it would bar students who were not paid up, hence the need for students to come forward with their plight to authorities for attention. Minister Ziyambi implored parents to adequately prepare for examination fees on time given that they would have been aware of the pending exams. “The issue of exam fees has not suddenly become urgent because the deadline is tomorrow. “The responsible ministry flighted adverts that people can pay in Zimbabwe dollars. Those with challenges must follow the channels and they will get help,” said Minister Ziyambi. Early this week Zimsec informed parents and guardians that Ordinary and Advanced Level, Grade 6 and Grade 7 examination fees shall be paid in Zimbabwe dollars at the interbank rate. Parents who wish to pay in US dollars and the South African rand, could still do so. “Fees are pegged in USD, however they are accepted in the currency which the parents/guardians are comfortable with,” said Zimsec. -Herald
The Member of the National Assembly for Kuwadzana, Hon Johnson Matambo, has urged the government to adopt more flexible measures enabling parents to afford examination fees for their children.
Hon Matambo raised his concerns during a parliamentary session following the response from the leader of government business, Ziyambi Ziyambi, regarding the stringent examination registration conditions.
“Where is the promised free education for all initiative announced by the President in 2019 and reiterated in 2022? The government must take action to support candidates facing financial challenges in meeting examination fees,” Hon Matambo questioned.
He further stated, “Minister Ziyambi’s response was not satisfactory, as the Speaker of Parliament pointed out that my query should have been framed as a question.”
During the parliamentary session, concerns were expressed about candidates’ inability to register for Grade 7, Ordinary Level, and Advanced Level public examinations due to financial constraints, with particular emphasis on the impractical deadline for registration imposed on parents.
Responding on behalf of the absent Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Dr. Torerayi Moyo, Hon Ziyambi Ziyambi asserted that parents had been provided with adequate time to secure examination fees for their children.
“Parents have had sufficient time to gather examination fees for their children.
The timing of examinations is well-known to all,” stated Hon Ziyambi Ziyambi.
TWO suspected poachers have been shot dead in Katombola, near the Kazungula Border Post in Matabeleland North province, while three other suspects were arrested.
The latest incident evokes memories of the recent poaching of six elephants in the Gwayi-Shangani Conservancy, which was a reminder of the barbaric poisoning of over 80 elephants in 2013 in the Hwange National Park, Southern Africa’s largest game reserve.
Mr. Alex Mashingaidze, the corporate rescue manager appointed to oversee the recovery of the financially embattled Westwood Industrial (Private) Limited, has been suspended from his role. This decision follows revelations of his previous involvement with the company, casting a shadow over the recovery process and highlighting the critical importance of impartiality in such roles.
The suspension comes in the wake of a High Court application by Reign Logistics, which argued for Mr. Mashingaidze’s immediate suspension and eventual removal. The company’s plea stems from concerns over potential conflicts of interest, given Mr. Mashingaidze’s past associations with Westwood Industrial. The court’s interim judgment, delivered by Justice Happias Zhou, mandates Mr. Mashingaidze to cease all activities related to his duties as the corporate rescue manager and to refrain from interfering with the company’s operations in any manner.
The corporate rescue process is designed to be a lifeline for businesses facing severe financial distress, offering them a chance to restructure and recover without resorting to liquidation. At the heart of this process is the corporate rescue manager, whose responsibility is to chart a path to solvency with an unbiased and clear mandate. However, the unfolding situation at Westwood Industrial serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required to navigate such recoveries successfully.
Evidence presented in court revealed that Mr. Mashingaidze was privy to documents concerning Westwood’s financial dealings, raising questions about his ability to fulfill his role without prejudice. Further complicating matters is the involvement of Mr. Mashingaidze’s business partner, Mr. Dereck Chikura, in the financial aspects of Westwood, which Justice Zhou pointed out as a clear disqualification for Mr. Mashingaidze’s continuing role in the corporate rescue process.
Justice Zhou’s ruling emphasized the non-negotiable need for a corporate rescue manager to remain independent from the company they are tasked with saving. “The facts disclose that he is compromised,” Justice Zhou remarked, underscoring the pivotal nature of impartiality for anyone in Mr. Mashingaidze’s position.
This development not only casts a spotlight on the critical standards to which corporate rescue practitioners must adhere but also brings into focus the broader challenges of ensuring successful corporate recoveries amidst financial crises. As Westwood Industrial grapples with its precarious financial position, the path forward will undoubtedly require careful navigation, free from the complications of past associations that could jeopardize the integrity of the rescue process.
The leader of a religious sect in Zimbabwe was denied bail on Tuesday. That’s after Ishmael Chokurongerwa was arrested last week for suspected child abuse.
Police had found 251 school-age children working on his farm, as well as 16 unregistered graves.
Chokurongerwa, described by police as a “self-styled prophet,” covered his head with a towel as he appeared at a court in the town of Norton, near the capital Harare.
He was alongside seven of his church members who also face charges.
Denying them bail, magistrate Christine Nyandoro argued that Chokurongerwa could use his influence to interfere with witnesses and that there would be a public outcry if he was released.
Outside court, his lawyer Purity Chikangaise said she would appeal at the High Court. Police have identified Chokurongerwa as a leader in the Johane Masowe or “white garment” church.
Its followers have previously been accused of abuse of women and children in Zimbabwe.
All eight suspects will remain in custody until April 4, the magistrate said, when the next hearing is scheduled.
Former Councillor Challenges Election Outcome in Urgent High Court Application
Former Cowdray Park Zanu-PF councillor, Kidwell Mujuru, has launched an urgent High Court application to contest the election and subsequent assumption of office by Mr. Nkosilathi Mpofu as councillor of Ward 6. This legal challenge comes in the wake of Mr. Mpofu’s recall by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) prior to the December 9 by-elections, raising significant legal and constitutional questions.
Kidwell Mujuru, in his affidavit obtained by the Chronicle, named Nkosilathi Mpofu, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, and the commission’s chairperson as respondents, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle. Mujuru’s main contention revolves around the legitimacy of Mpofu’s candidacy and election in the by-elections held on December 9, following his recall from the CCC party.
According to Mujuru’s detailed affidavit, Mpofu’s disassociation from the CCC, communicated by the party’s interim Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu, to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, effectively nullified his status as a councillor under the provisions of Section 129 (1) (k) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe 2013. This recall, argues Mujuru, should have precluded Mpofu from participating in the by-election as a CCC candidate.
Mujuru further accuses Mpofu of misrepresentation during his filing at the nomination court, alleging that Mpofu unlawfully portrayed himself as a CCC candidate despite his recall and the subsequent legal affirmations that barred recalled members from representing the party in by-elections.
Highlighting previous High Court cases where the recalls and their consequences were adjudicated, Mujuru points to a clear pattern of judicial findings that, in his view, render Mpofu’s candidacy and election void. He underscores the seriousness of the matter, arguing that it strikes at the heart of the electoral process and the enforcement of political party and constitutional law.
The case, as outlined by Mujuru, seeks not only to challenge the outcome of the Ward 6 election but also to prompt a broader examination of election laws, party affiliation, and candidate eligibility. Mujuru’s call to action for the court to decisively address this issue reflects a concern for the integrity of electoral practices and the adherence to legal and constitutional standards.
This legal challenge opens up a complex dialogue about political representation, party dynamics, and the mechanisms of recall and election within Zimbabwe’s evolving political framework. As the High Court prepares to hear Mujuru’s application, stakeholders from across the political spectrum watch closely, anticipating the implications of this case for future elections and party politics in Zimbabwe.
Vapostori Group Seeks Peace and Justice Amid Charges Against Madzibaba Ishmael
Zimbabwe, the Vapostori community, a prominent religious group, is urging the public not to generalize their faith based on the actions of Ishmael Chokurongerwa, widely known as Madzibaba Ishmael. The latter faces grave charges, including the denial of children’s basic rights and conducting burials without official orders. This plea came from Mr. Obey Mapuranga, spokesperson for Vapostori and MaZion for ED, during a media conference held yesterday.
Madzibaba Ishmael’s case has drawn national attention, especially after his recent court appearance before Norton magistrate Ms. Christine Nyandoro, where he, alongside seven co-accused, was denied bail. They are facing charges under the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act, with their next court appearance scheduled for April 4.
Mr. Mapuranga emphasized the need for unity and peace among Zimbabweans, asserting that any actions taken against Madzibaba Ishmael, if found guilty, would involve religious counseling and guidance from the leaders of the National Judicial Council of Vapostori. This initiative aims to ensure that the Vapostori families at Lilly Farm continue their religious practices, residence, and farming activities in accordance with Zimbabwe’s constitution and the freedom of religion.
Highlighting the community’s faith in the legal process, Mr. Mapuranga expressed confidence in the country’s law enforcement and judicial systems to handle the matter with professionalism. He also reiterated the Johanne Masowe Chishanu religion’s opposition to early marriages and child abuse, reflecting the core values the Vapostori community upholds.
However, the Vapostori spokesperson raised concerns over what he described as “disturbing information and evidence” of some non-governmental organizations allegedly engaging in a religious war against the Vapostori. According to Mr. Mapuranga, these entities are indirectly advocating for the eradication of the Vapostori religion in Zimbabwe, a claim that adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal and societal discourse.
The charges against Madzibaba Ishmael and his followers stem from allegations that they buried Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without proper burial orders and neglected and exposed children to unnecessary suffering within their church compound in Nyabira. A police raid on the farm led to the rescue of 251 children, many without birth certificates, and the discovery of 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine, intensifying the scrutiny on the religious leader and his sect.
As this case progresses, it serves as a focal point for discussions on religious freedom, child rights, and the responsibilities of religious leaders in Zimbabwe. The Vapostori community’s call for non-generalization and justice speaks to the broader challenges of balancing religious practices with national laws and human rights.
Twenty-year-old twin brothers from Chief Mukanganwi area in Bikita were acquitted of rape charges by the Masvingo Regional Magistrate’s Court. The siblings faced allegations of raping a 12-year-old girl as she returned from school. However, Masvingo Regional Magistrate Bishard Chineka found the case lacked sufficient evidence to convict the brothers.
The twins, neighbors to the complainant but not related, had been under scrutiny since their initial court appearance on March 13, 2024. Despite the grave accusations, they steadfastly maintained their innocence, citing an alibi that placed them at a work site six kilometers away from the scene at the time of the alleged crime. This alibi was corroborated by a witness present with them on the day, bolstering their defense.
Magistrate Chineka, in his ruling, highlighted the improbability of the brothers’ involvement given the circumstances and the timing of their work schedule. “It is reasonable that the complainant was raped by other people because on that day, the accused persons were molding bricks in their village, which is about 6 kilometers from where the complainant was raped,” Chineka explained. He further noted the absence of any direct accusation against the twins in the initial disclosure by the victim to her school teacher, casting further doubt on their guilt.
The allegations against the twins were harrowing, with the complainant asserting that after trying to evade the brothers, she was forcibly taken to a nearby bush, restrained, and raped by each brother in turn, under threats of violence should she disclose the incident. Despite these serious claims, the defense managed to present a compelling counter-narrative of their whereabouts, fundamentally undermining the prosecution’s case.
The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the challenges of prosecuting sexual assault cases, particularly those involving minors. Advocates for sexual assault victims stress the importance of thorough investigations and support for survivors, while also acknowledging the complexities that arise when evidence is scarce or contradictory.
In the aftermath of the acquittal, the community is left grappling with unresolved tensions and questions about justice, safety, and the adequacy of the legal framework to protect the most vulnerable. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate balance the justice system must maintain between convicting the guilty and safeguarding the rights of the accused.
Michael Reza Appointed Head of Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission Amid Controversial CCC Trio Trial
The high-profile trial of the CCC trio, the Prosecutor, Michael Reza, known for his rigorous pursuit of justice in controversial cases, has been promoted to the prestigious position of head of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). This announcement comes as the trial of former CCC legislator Joana Mamombe and her three accomplices draws to a close, marking a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s fight against corruption.
The State, under the lead of Advocate Tafara Chirambira following Reza’s promotion, officially closed its case against Mamombe, Makomborero Haruzivishe, Tererai Obey Sithole, and Netsai Marova on Tuesday. The charges against them include participating in unlawful gatherings with intent to promote public violence, breaches of the peace, or bigotry, alongside contraventions of COVID-19 lockdown regulations.
Reza, throughout the trial, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the law, a quality that has presumably led to his new role at ZACC. His elevation is seen as a strategic move to bolster Zimbabwe’s efforts in combating corruption, leveraging his vast experience and formidable reputation in legal circles.
The CCC trio’s trial has been a focal point of national interest, showcasing the delicate balance between upholding law and order and protecting citizens’ rights to freedom of association. The allegations against them stem from their purported defiance of lockdown protocols, where they, along with others, are accused of urging public revolt against the government over extended lockdown measures.
As the legal proceedings draw to a conclusion, with the State’s case now closed and the defense preparing to apply for discharge, all eyes are on the April 5 ruling. This trial, coupled with Reza’s promotion, underscores a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s legal and political landscape, signaling a renewed commitment to rigorously tackling corruption at the highest levels.
Michael Reza’s appointment as the head of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission is a clear testament to the government’s resolve to intensify its crackdown on corruption, an issue that has long plagued the nation. With his track record, there is widespread anticipation that Reza will bring a new vigor to the commission’s operations, potentially leading to significant breakthroughs in the ongoing battle against corruption.
In a move that has ignited both admiration and skepticism, controversial Zanu PF businessman Wicknell Chivayo recently took to Facebook to announce his intention to purchase a brand new vehicle for a social media comedian known for his humorous skits, particularly one parodying Chivayo himself.
The skit in question, dubbed “Tinotengesa Number DzaSir Wicknell,” humorously portrays Chivayo engaging in various transactions, garnering attention for its sharp wit and clever satire.
Chivayo, seemingly appreciative of the comedian’s talent and the popularity of the skit, took to social media to express his admiration and extend a gesture of gratitude.
In his Facebook post, Chivayo stated, “Uyu handizivi zita rake asi avene nguva refu achiita ma skit ake…Very funny guy…He now deserves an AKWAYA…”
This declaration sparked a wave of reactions across social media platforms, with many praising Chivayo’s generosity and willingness to reward creativity.However, amidst the applause, there were also murmurs of skepticism and concern.
Chivayo’s sudden penchant for gifting luxury vehicles to individuals in the public eye, particularly those aligned with Zanu PF, has raised eyebrows and prompted questions regarding the source of his wealth.
Chivayo, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and controversial business dealings, has faced scrutiny in the past over allegations of corruption and illicit financial practices.
His ostentatious displays of wealth, coupled with his close ties to political figures, have only fueled suspicions surrounding the legitimacy of his fortune.
Critics argue that Chivayo’s extravagant gestures, such as gifting expensive vehicles to public figures, serve as a means of cultivating influence and garnering support within certain circles, rather than genuine acts of altruism.
They point to a pattern of selective generosity, wherein beneficiaries often have affiliations with Zanu PF or express sentiments sympathetic to the ruling party.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the message Chivayo’s actions may send, particularly to young aspiring comedians and content creators.
While rewarding talent and creativity is commendable, the notion that success and recognition are contingent upon aligning oneself with particular political ideologies or affiliations could undermine the principles of meritocracy and artistic integrity.
In response to the criticisms, supporters of Chivayo argue that his philanthropic endeavors should be viewed independently of his political affiliations or past controversies.
They highlight instances where Chivayo has contributed to charitable causes and supported individuals in need, emphasizing his right to use his wealth as he sees fit.
Nevertheless, the debate surrounding Wicknell Chivayo’s generosity continues to underscore broader discussions about wealth, influence, and the intersection of politics and business in Zimbabwean society.
As Chivayo’s lavish gifts make headlines and stir public discourse, the true motivations behind his benevolence remain subject to interpretation and scrutiny.
Fossil fuel companies are facing mounting scrutiny as evidence mounts regarding their significant contribution to air pollution-related deaths across continents.
According to a report by Greenpeace Africa, approximately 400,000 premature deaths in the continent are directly attributable to air pollution caused by these companies.
This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for action to hold these companies accountable for the harm they inflict on human health and the environment.
The detrimental effects of air pollution on public health are well-documented.
Fine particulate matter and toxic gases emitted during the combustion of fossil fuels penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other serious health conditions.
Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and low-income communities, bear the brunt of these health impacts, exacerbating existing inequalities in access to healthcare and environmental justice.
The question arises: How can fossil fuel companies justify the profound harm they cause to human lives and well-being?
Despite mounting scientific evidence and public outcry, these companies have often prioritized profits over people and planet.
They have employed various tactics to obfuscate their role in driving air pollution, including funding misinformation campaigns, lobbying against environmental regulations, and greenwashing their image through token sustainability initiatives.
It is essential to recognize that the continued operation of fossil fuel infrastructure not only perpetuates air pollution-related deaths but also exacerbates the climate crisis, further endangering future generations.
The burning of coal, oil, and gas is the single largest source of greenhouse gas emissions globally, driving global warming, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation.
The unchecked expansion of fossil fuel extraction and infrastructure perpetuates a dangerous cycle of environmental destruction and human suffering.
However, there is hope for change.
Civil society organizations, grassroots activists, and concerned citizens worldwide are mobilizing to demand accountability from fossil fuel companies and push for a just transition to renewable energy.
Initiatives such as divestment campaigns, legal challenges, and community-led resistance movements are challenging the power and influence of the fossil fuel industry and advocating for a shift towards clean, sustainable energy alternatives.
Furthermore, governments play a crucial role in regulating the fossil fuel industry and implementing policies that prioritize public health and environmental protection.
Stronger emissions standards, carbon pricing mechanisms, and incentives for renewable energy development are essential steps towards reducing air pollution and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Additionally, investing in clean energy infrastructure and creating green jobs can foster economic growth while safeguarding public health and the environment.As individuals, we also have a role to play in addressing the air pollution crisis.
By reducing our own reliance on fossil fuels, advocating for sustainable transportation options, and supporting renewable energy initiatives in our communities, we can contribute to a cleaner, healthier future for all.In conclusion, the toll of air pollution on human health and the environment is too great to ignore.
Fossil fuel companies must be held accountable for their role in perpetuating this crisis, and urgent action is needed to transition away from fossil fuels towards a more sustainable energy future.
By working together and demanding accountability, we can build a world where clean air and a healthy environment are guaranteed for generations to come.
Join the call to end the inhumane toll of air pollution.
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ZIMBABWE Miners’ Federation president Henrietta Rushwaya has been arrested on allegations involving an undisclosed mining transaction.
Last night police said they would not release any details until she appears in court.
She was in custody yesterday evening, assisting police with investigations.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest.
We can confirm that Henrietta Rushwaya is assisting police with investigations following a report made by a certain complainant in relation to a purported mining transaction. So far investigations are in progress and these are the details we can release as of now,” he said.
TWO suspected poachers have been shot dead in Katombola, near the Kazungula Border Post in Matabeleland North province, while three other suspects were arrested.
The latest incident evokes memories of the recent poaching of six elephants in the Gwayi-Shangani Conservancy, which was a reminder of the barbaric poisoning of over 80 elephants in 2013 in the Hwange National Park, Southern Africa’s largest game reserve.
The leader of a religious sect in Zimbabwe was denied bail on Tuesday. That’s after Ishmael Chokurongerwa was arrested last week for suspected child abuse.
Police had found 251 school-age children working on his farm, as well as 16 unregistered graves.
Chokurongerwa, described by police as a “self-styled prophet,” covered his head with a towel as he appeared at a court in the town of Norton, near the capital Harare.
He was alongside seven of his church members who also face charges.
Denying them bail, magistrate Christine Nyandoro argued that Chokurongerwa could use his influence to interfere with witnesses and that there would be a public outcry if he was released.
Outside court, his lawyer Purity Chikangaise said she would appeal at the High Court. Police have identified Chokurongerwa as a leader in the Johane Masowe or “white garment” church.
Its followers have previously been accused of abuse of women and children in Zimbabwe.
All eight suspects will remain in custody until April 4, the magistrate said, when the next hearing is scheduled.
The Member of Parliament for Harare Central Constituency, Hon Lovemore Jimu, voiced concerns on Wednesday regarding the escalating food shortage in the country and its impact on schoolchildren during a parliamentary session.
Addressing the Parliament, Hon Jimu pressed Minister July Moyo for clarity on the government’s response to the drought-induced crisis and the measures being taken to support schoolchildren affected by El Niño-related challenges.
Directing his inquiry to Minister Moyo, Hon Jimu queried, “What actions is the government taking to ensure that school-going children receive adequate nourishment?”
In response, Minister Moyo assured, “We have implemented targeted initiatives, including a special feeding program, to mitigate hunger.
Collaborating closely with relevant government entities, we are diligently managing the situation.”
” There is no cause for alarm; we are actively refining our strategies.
Furthermore, the President has affirmed the availability of ample food resources for all,” Minister Moyo added.
Reflecting on the parliamentary discourse, Hon Jimu remarked, “In my constituency, families are grappling with economic hardships, resulting in challenges to provide for their children.
Tragically, some learners are fainting due to malnutrition, highlighting a distressing reality.”
By Crime and Courts Reporter- A University of Zimbabwe professor was poisoned and died at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine, it has emerged.
Prof Itai Muwati died two years ago after visiting the shrine in Nyabira, and the police have been keeping the postmortem results, only to hand them over to his family on Monday.
The late professor’s family is now trying to recover the 30 cattle and two vehicles, which included a Honda Fit and a grinding mill, which they say belonged to the late Professor but disappeared after his death.
He is one of scores of people who are believed to have been buried without a burial order at the compound at Lily Farm in Nyabira.
His family has now told H-Metro that they tried to file a report with the police, against Madzibaba Ishmael as they suspected foul play, but their efforts were frustrated by the police in Nyabira.
His body was later exhumed by the family and reburied at his rural home in Mhondoro-Ngezi. His postmortem results, which were given to his family on Monday, two years after his death, showed that the late Prof Muwati was poisoned.
Muwati family spokesperson, Martin Muwati, told H-Metro that the family now wanted to collect his property from the compound.
“Something suspicious has been happening in Nyabira,” said Martin. “Our relative died in 2022 and we were never given the postmortem results only to be called by the current Nyabira ZRP Officer In Charge yesterday (on Monday) to collect them. “We tried in vain to lodge a police report against Madzibaba Ishmael, following the death of Prof Muwati at his shrine in 2022.
“The Officer in Charge, Musekiwa, blocked us saying (Madzibaba Ishmael’s) team was violent, and we felt threatened, but we now know that the issue was to stop us from collecting our late relative’s property.” He added: “Prof had 30 cattle, two vehicles that included a Honda Fit, a grinding mill, a laptop but all these were never handed over to us. “Hanzi akafa asina chaakanga ainacho. “It is now surfacing that Madzibaba Ishmael had been collecting everything of value from his followers, who include the late Prof Muwati. “Members at the compound are forced to work and Madzibaba Ishmael collects the fruits of their labour.”
Martin said Prof Muwati’s particulars, including bank cards, were never recovered.
Prof Muwati was found dead on June 6, 2022, in unclear circumstances.
He was buried a few hours later at a shallow grave at Lily Farm before his relatives demanded the exhumation of his body. -H-Metro
By Staff Reporter – The University of Zimbabwe has recently drawn criticism for its meagre compensation of US$2.50 per hour offered to Adjunct Lecturers within the Law Faculty.
Adjunct Lecturers who recently transitioned from part-time roles to permanent positions within the institution have been dismayed by the university’s latest remuneration policy.
This announcement came through a memorandum dated March 13, 2024, titled “Remuneration of Adjunct Lecturers,” addressed to the Deans of Faculties and Chairpersons of Departments by Thulani Sheila Makamure.
The esteemed institution is facing an exodus of lecturers due to its failure to improve their working conditions adequately.
In an excerpt from the memo, it states: “The Vice Chancellor has approved a blended remuneration system for Adjunct Lecturers effective March 9, 2024. Adjunct Lecturers, formerly known as Part-Time Lecturers, will now receive their salaries in both local currency and United States dollars, split evenly at a rate of two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per hour for the latter, while the former remains unchanged.”
This arrangement entails that half of their earnings will be in Zimbabwean dollars and the other half in US dollars, capped at sixty (60) hours per month. Henceforth, claim forms for Adjunct Lecturers must indicate amounts in both currencies.
Fadzayi Mahere, a prominent lawyer and former Member of Parliament, expressed grave concerns about the impact of such low remuneration on teaching quality at the university.
In her statement, she highlighted the absurdity of expecting competent academic staff to work for such a paltry wage.
However, Jonathan Moyo, a former ZANU PF politburo member in exile, offered a different interpretation, suggesting that the letter had been misconstrued. Moyo clarified that the memo pertained specifically to part-time teaching staff, now referred to as “Adjunct Lecturers,” and not full-time, permanent faculty members.
Moyo emphasised that the US$2.50 per hour rate applies only to the foreign currency component for part-time lecturers and stressed that teaching hours are limited due to their part-time status.
He argued that part-time lecturers often have commitments elsewhere and engage in teaching for various reasons beyond monetary gain.
The university’s decision continues to spark debate, reflecting broader concerns about fair compensation and working conditions for academic staff in Zimbabwe.
By Political Reporter- A group of members of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) in Bulawayo are challenging fervent supporters within Zanu PF who advocate for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his presidency indefinitely.
The contentious issue arose when certain factions within Zanu PF proposed amending the Constitution to remove the presidential term limit, effectively paving the way for Mnangagwa to rule indefinitely.
However, this move faced resistance from some quarters, particularly the war veterans’ association.
On Friday, March 15, police intervened to halt a planned meeting of the ZNLWVA in Bulawayo, citing concerns that the gathering could disrupt party unity.
Led by Andrease Mathibela, the ZNLWVA has historically been aligned with ZANU PF but is now perceived as a dissenting voice against Mnangagwa’s leadership aspirations.
Following the ban on their meeting, Mathibela held a press conference where he vehemently denounced the notion of “dynastic rule” in Zimbabwe. He warned against the erosion of constitutional provisions, emphasizing the importance of upholding the limits on presidential terms as enshrined in the country’s constitution.
While there is growing support within Zanu PF for Mnangagwa’s bid for a third term, legal obstacles loom large. Constitutional provisions explicitly disqualify individuals who have already served two presidential terms from seeking re-election.
Moreover, any attempt to amend the Constitution to circumvent these restrictions would not apply to Mnangagwa during his current tenure, as clarified by legal precedents.
Mnangagwa’s presidency, marked by controversy since his election in 2018, faces renewed scrutiny amid the debate over term limits. With his second term set to expire in 2028, the nation watches closely as the battle between political ambition and constitutional integrity unfolds. -The Standard
By Masvingo Mirror- A member of the Zimbabwe National Army’s Intelligence Department (MID) has been arrested for demanding bribes from cross-border buses.
Parangeta Garikai (43) was nabbed at the weekend for allegedly taking bribes at a roadblock at Bubi along Masvingo- Beitbridge Highway and is now facing bribery charges.
Parangeta of Goromondo Village under Chief Katerere in Nyanga was nabbed after taking ZAR900 from Zipho Dube, a conductor with Mzansi Express Bus Service which plies across the border to South Africa.
Further amounts were allegedly found on him and these have become exhibits in court.
Garikai appeared before Beitbridge Resident Magistrate Takudzwa Gwazemba on the same day that he was arrested and was remanded in custody.
The State is represented by a Police Inspector Sarireni who resides at ZRP Old Hatfield Camp compound in Harare.
It is the State case that on November 26, 2022, Garikai approached Mzanzi Express Bus and demanded money from Dube who handed over ZAR900 to him.
He then placed the money in his right front pocket in full view of an anticorruption team that was at the roadblock.
The anticorruption team apprehended Dube who became a witness and he led the team to Garikai.
The accused resisted arrest and searches before taking the money from his pocket and giving it to his counterpart who ran away.
The accused further took some money from his back pocket which he threw on the ground and it was recovered as exhibit.
The amount is ZAR 230 and US$ 11 and the serial numbers are, US$ 10 serial number PB5481489B, US$ 1 note F48199220A, ZAR 100 note QN1784199D, 2x ZAR 50 notes, MA0061094C and PL2027141C, ZAR 20 note serial number SP 3023464 B and ZAR 10 note serial number RF8728435A. -Masvingo Mirror
Many people want to become a citizen of Vanuatu. You must have heard the name of this beautiful island, which is popular for its landscapes, beaches, greenery, and culture.
Vanuatu offers various citizenship options that act as pathways for foreign nationals to acquire citizenship. Known for its beauty and culture, it deeply connects people with nature.
To obtain citizenship, it is essential to have a detailed knowledge of the citizenship options in order to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. You can seek guidance from immigration professionals.
Global Residence Index (GlobalResidenceIndex.com) is the best place for immigration and citizenship consultation. The team helps their clients throughout the process, from explaining the visa programs to filling out the application form to receiving final approval.
This article will talk about the appeal of Vanuatu, its various pathways to citizenship, its culture, traditions, etc.
Allure of Vanuatu Citizenship
Vanuatu is a gorgeous island nation in the South Pacific Ocean. It has mesmerizing white sand beaches, turquoise waters, vast rainforests, hidden waterfalls, active volcanoes, and many more appealing natural beauty to admire.
Living in Vanuatu is like escaping the hustle and bustle of modern chaotic life and connecting with nature. In that place, people embrace the slow-living lifestyle by prioritizing community, enjoying the simple pleasures of life, and finding relaxation and peace.
Besides, it’s the best place for people who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, diving, swimming, and snorkeling. The Ni-Vanuatu people are also very welcoming and friendly.
By obtaining Vanuatu citizenship, individuals will also receive tax benefits, visa-free travel, and many investment opportunities. The country offers everyone a chance to break away from the fast-paced world and live in a safe and welcoming environment, along with many other benefits.
Pathways to Vanuatu Citizenship
If you want to enjoy the island paradise, explore the Vanuatu citizenship options available for foreign nationals. Have a look at the pathways to Vanuatu Citizenship.
Citizenship by Investment
This is the most popular type of citizenship program. In this, applicants can obtain citizenship by making a financial contribution to the Vanuatu economy. It is a fast way to become a citizen.
The required financial donation or contribution an individual has to make are:
Through this, entrepreneurs can obtain citizenship by establishing a business in the country. A few conditions, such as minimum investment and job creation, need to be met in order to qualify.
Real Estate Investment
This is another option for becoming a citizen of Vanuatu. An applicant must invest in real estate. The investment amount varies according to the program and property. It is essential to do a thorough background check on the estate you are investing in before proceeding.
Marriage
If an individual gets married to a Vanuatu citizen, then he/she is eligible to become a citizen after a certain period. However, marriage should not be solely for obtaining citizenship. The authorities check the genuineness of a relationship before granting citizenship.
Unveiling Vanuatu’s Cultural Tapestry
Vanuatu is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural tapestry, traditions, ancestral past, and language. Let’s learn more about Vanuatu culture.
Evident from traditional practices and art forms, Vanuatu’s roots come from Melanesian heritage. For centuries, Melanesian communities lived on these islands, introducing social and spiritual structures and beliefs. The country’s common language has emerged as Bislama.
The Europeans, Britishers, and French had also left their mark; however, Vanuatu’s core culture remains Melanesian. The place has a fascinating combination of tradition and modernity.
Vanuatu is a culturally diverse country. All the customs and traditions are known as Kastom (Bislama/English word). The country has customary rituals, beliefs, practices, dances, costumes, music, etc.
One of the unique art forms of Vanuatu is sand drawing. Artists use their fingers to create patterns and images on dark volcanic sand that have some meaning. Though impermanent, the art form is deeply connected with nature and requires talent.
Vanuatu also celebrates numerous festivals. Some of the popularly known festivals are Yam Festival and Nakamal Wobbly. There is a lot of dancing, singing, gift exchanges, and delicious food.
The individuals receive really good hospitality from the Ni-Vanuatu people. They are very welcoming, friendly, and respectful to visitors.
Important Considerations
There are a few important things to consider before making the final decision. Here are some of the basic things that must be considered before moving further with the process.
Know about the cost of living in the country. Check if you will be able to afford the basic living costs and support your family.
It is a remote location. So, if you are fine with the private environment, then only move forward. Prepare yourself beforehand.
There might be some residency requirements you need to fulfill. Check if you can complete them accordingly.
Might face some language difficulties. Try to learn the native language of the place.
Conclusion
Living on an island is a dream for many people, and Vanuatu provides the opportunity to experience island life.
Through its citizenship programs, Vanuatu grants foreign nationals the chance to become citizens and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
Hope this article was useful and you learned about Vanuatu’s culture, lifestyle, and citizenship options. However, always seek professional help to complete the process smoothly without any mistakes.
By Crime and Courts Reporter- President Emmerson Mnagagwa’s niece and Zimbabwe Miners’ Federation president Henrietta Rushwaya has been arrested for a mining transaction-related offence.
The Police Tuesday told the state media that they would not release any details until she appears in court.
She was in custody Tuesday evening, assisting police with investigations.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest. “We can confirm that Henrietta Rushwaya is assisting police with investigations following a report made by a certain complainant in relation to a purported mining transaction. So far investigations are in progress and these are the details we can release as of now,” he said.
In November last year, Rushwaya was fined US$5 000 after being convicted of attempting to smuggle 6kg of gold worth over US$333 000 to Dubai.
Rushwaya denied that she had intended to smuggle the gold, claiming she mistakenly picked up the wrong bag at home, one containing gold bars instead of the one she meant to take on her trip. But the defence of a wrong bag was dismissed as implausible by the courts.
She was then ordered to pay a US$5 000 fine (or 12 months). There was in addition, an 18-month jail term wholly suspended for three years on condition she did not commit a similar offence within the stipulated time.
The prosecution case was built on the evidence that Rushwaya was caught with the gold in her bag as she was leaving the country and that she failed to provide a valid export permit and presented a fake invoice and packing list from a company called Ali Japan 786 (Pvt) Limited, at the time of her arrest.
In August 2022, Rushwaya was cleared of allegations of offering a bribe to an airport official to allow her to travel out of the country with 6kg of gold in October 2020.
