Police report by @TembaMliswa
against Chinese man following today's incident at the tile factory pic.twitter.com/fc5QDN5Ej9

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) June 26, 2019

Farai Dziva|An apostolic sect leader was allegegedly assaulted by a suspected CIO operative for “sympathizing” with Apostle Talent Chiwenga.

Apostolic sect leader from Johanne Masowe Chishanu, Madzibaba Spenlodge Madenyika, was allegedly assaulted at his shrine by a man who claimed to be an intelligence officer.

Madzibaba Spenlodge told H-Metro, that a man only identified as Jimmy Dzamu went to his shrine, shouting and telling him to close the sanctuary.

The outspoken cleric further told the publication that his life was no longer safe since there had been several break-in attempts at his house.

”Last Saturday Jimmy Dzamu came to my shrine shouting at me- telling me to close the shrine. He claimed to be working in the President’s office.

They are persecuting me for commenting on Apostle Talent Chiwenga’s story. I didn’t know basa raMwari rikakura you develop more enemies than friends.”

Farai Dziva|Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa has implored Zimbabweans to celebrate the reintroduction of the Zimbabwean dollar.

The government has banned the use of the United States dollar -abandoning the multi-currency regime in the process.

Analysts say the move is disastrous as the country does not have enough foreign currency reserves.

Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans to rejoice because the Zim Dollar is back.

Speaking to reporters in Victoria Falls Mnangagwa declared that his government must be given credit for bringing back normalcy.

“Zimbabwe has gone back to normalcy and the normalcy is that a country must have its own currency. We were living in an abnormal situation and you must congratulate us for becoming normal again.”

The Zim dollar, however, has been met with scepticism all over Zimbabwe with banks hiking interest rates and individuals withholding their cash.

By A Correspondent: A Harare Polytechnic College lecturer has been suspended by authorities for misconduct over his utterances.

Amos Dauzen reportedly said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has mismanaged the country’s economy resulting in poor remuneration for civil servants.

This was revealed by the Zimbabwe Lawyer for Human Rights (ZLHR) in a statement.

It said:

At Harare Polytechnic College, authorities have suspended Amos Dauzeni, a lecturer, after he was accused of misconduct for allegedly denigrating President Mnangagwa by stating that he had mismanaged the country’s economy resulting in the payment of poor salaries to government workers.

This is a developing story. Refresh this page for latest updates.

Farai Dziva| Zanu PF has allegedly caused the suspension of a senior medical doctor for refusing to donate money towards a ruling party programme.

Dr Edmore Zvidzai, the medical superintendent at Gutu Mission Hospital was suspended for allegedly refusing to donate funds towards Independence celebrations during a fundraising campaign by the Zanu PF youth league.

Zvidzai was not at liberty to comment on the matter.

“Dr Zvidzai requested a transfer from Masvingo Province but I don’t know his reasons for making the move,” said a government official.

BREAKING: Police called in as Mliswa nearly kidnapped by Chinese in Norton

THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY @TembaMliswa had traveled to the contentious Norton factory for a function briefing with this morning, when while driving out, his car was surrounded pic.twitter.com/giKE8fJTdB

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) June 26, 2019

Farai Dziva|The ruling party Zanu PF has ordered the Ministry of Health and Child Care to transfer a medical doctor from Gutu District with immediate effect.

Zanu PF Masvingo Provincial Youth chairperson Brian Munyoro claimed Dr Edmore Zvidzai “threatened to kill party members” in Gutu District should they seek medical attention under his supervision.

Munyoro alleged that Dr Zvidzai threatened to kill Zanu PF patients at Gutu Mission Hospital.

“We made a recommendation for his transfer after he clashed with our councillor for Ward 37 last week at the hospital. He told our councillor that all Zanu PF supporters who will visit the hospital will not leave alive since they do not deserve to live,” claimed Munyoro.

Masvingo Provincial Medical Director Amadeus Shamu said Dr Zvidzai requested a transfer but would not disclose the reason for doing so.

“He (Dr Zvidzai) requested a transfer but he did not state the reasons behind his intention to leave the place. “

Dr Zvidzai was not at liberty to comment on the matter.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has dismissed information circulating on social media that banks have been instructed to stop any cash withdrawal of forex by clients.

Zimbabwe was abuzz with information alleging that the forex in clients’ nostro accounts has been converted to the local currency.

“Further to our Directive, the Reserve Bank wishes to advise that contrary to certain information being circulated on social media, cash withdrawals by individuals are still permissible and the policy position hasn’t changed.” The Central Bank said.

The further clarified that the daily withdrawal limit has not changed.

For corporates, banks shall apply the KYC principle for any intended cash withdrawals and current withdrawal limit for individuals remains US$1000 per day.

“Individuals are still able to withdraw their cash from their individual accounts and banks are, in line with international best practice, expected to apply the AML/CFT principles.”

On Monday Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube gazetted a Statutory Instrument that prohibits the use of foreign currency as legal tender.

-State Media

“We have not banned the possession of any other currency except you cannot transact in any shop. If you want to buy your USD or Euro, you go to a Bureau de Change, that’s what is normal and that is what should be done,” President Mnangagwa.

ARTUZ have noted with great pain that the government is heartless about Teacher’s plight for better living wage. The ban of the use of US by the Government of Zimbabwe we view it as a direct attack to the ARTUZ which was on the track record of demanding salaries in US.

ARTUZ demand a living wage not slave wage . Our demands came on the back drop of erosion of our salaries in bond notes and skyrocketing of basic goods prices which were pegged or rated in US dollar hence the demand of salaries in a currency which is stable. After all the pushing and shoving our battle is thrown into abyss just by a word of mouth.

Our government is taking us for a ride and we shall not give in until something is done. In all honesty prices are unbearable and with the peanuts we are getting we can’t afford a decent meal for ourselves and let alone our innocent children. Shall we remain a wasted generation cdes or we are our own liberators? We shall not bow in or give a nod to the banning of USD transactions in Zimbabwe until a time when all is set.

We cannot sit and pretend everything is well when Marxisim is what the Government is advocating for. We are tired of the continous harrassment of our members by state agents and we are appealing to cdes to be more united than ever. We are no more leaping in darkness but in a tunnel with rays of hope shining from outside.
Cdes the struggle is real.

ARTUZ office of the Secretary General.

State Media|PREDICTABLY, there has been some toxicity, which is part of our game’s DNA, regrettably there has been a tsunami of negativity, which is part of its tortured soul and, refreshingly, there has been a rainbow of positivity, which has provided a filter of hope, in the gloom of hopelessness.

The ugly headlines across the globe, provoked by industrial action on the eve of their opening game, explosive, and in most cases largely exaggerated social media reports of the Armageddon that swept their tumultuous camp, sensational reports of an implosion, and a meltdown, like has never been seen before.

It’s not that there were no issues in their camp.

Of course, there were a lot of them, and on Thursday night the Warriors were furious their US$9 000 payouts per individual hadn’t reflected in their bank accounts and, if that was the case the following day, they would not play against the Pharaohs.

But, at least, the Warriors were here.

The defending champions, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, the first team to break the barriers of mediocrity for African teams at the World Cup, the first to make dancing such a fashionable act at the global football show, were not even here.

An ugly standoff with their football leaders, over unpaid dues, meant they refused to board the plane that was meant to bring them here and, in that moment, ensured the narrative of their Egyptian adventure would not be about the defence of their title, but the chaos in their camp.
But, football has a way of converting its chaos into chemistry.

And, the same Indomitable Lions were the toast of their nation, just two years ago, when they powered to another Afcon title after beating the Pharaohs in the final in Gabon.

The same Pharaohs, who, on Friday night, were also the opponents as the Warriors sang their redemption song with a strong performance, the same Egyptians, who today will also be part of the double-header show at the Cairo International Stadium when Group A explodes once again.

The Warriors will start the ball rolling at 7PM against the Cranes of Uganda where a defeat will complicate, if not virtually end their 2019 Afcon dreams, in a tournament where only eight of the 24 teams will go home after the group stages.

And four of the six third-placed teams will also get a ticket into the knockout stages.

Sunday Chidzambwa’s men charmed the world in the first game, especially in the second half, and they now have to convince the globe it wasn’t all a fluke.

That is why they need, unlike in the first game, to find a way to convert their industry into goals and a victory tonight, which will provide a major boost to their campaign, or, in the worst case scenario, fight for a point.

The last time Mhofu was in this position, at the 2004 Afcon finals, after an opening day defeat at the hands of the Pharaohs, the coach made just two changes to his team, bringing in Dickson Choto for Kaitano Tembo and Joel Luphahla for Agent Sawu.

Those Warriors responded by scoring three goals against the Indomitable Lions, with their skipper Peter Ndlovu scoring twice in a 3-5 defeat.

If the Warriors’ skipper Knowledge Musona, the team’s most influential player since King Peter retired, finds his touch, and a similar impact, the expectation would be that these Warriors can fish something from this make-or-break battle against the Cranes.

Sometimes, there is sense that, whatever it is, this script was written a long time ago.

After all, how do we reconcile the fact that, just like in 2004, it had to be the Pharaohs in the first game, it had to be a one-goal victory margin for the Egyptians, it had to be Mhofu in charge, and the Indomitable Lions, who the Warriors met in their second match 15 years ago, would also feature prominently in their tale here?

How can Mhofu rally his men for this huge battle against the Cranes, who will play with the freedom that even if they lose, they are still firmly in the race for the knockout stages, while the Warriors don’t have the luxury of any margin of error which, in this game, comes with a heavy load?

How can he inspire a team that hasn’t won a game at this level of football, since a 2-1 win over Ghana in 2006, find a way to post a victory?

Maybe, as a Manchester United fan himself, he requires to borrow a leaf from a historic speech made by a former MP of his team’s home city, who later became British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, which dragged his country from the edge of defeat in World War II, to the green fields of success against the Germans.

“What the world called the Battle against the Pharaohs is over, the Battle against the Cranes is about to begin and, upon this battle, depends the survival of the Warriors at this Afcon tournament,” Mhofu should, probably, say.

“The whole fury and might of the Cranes will very soon be turned on us, the Ugandans know they will have to break us or lose the right to qualify from our group.

“If we can stand up to them, all of our people back home can draw a sense of appreciation for our efforts and our quest, to stay longer in this tournament, will move forward into broad, sunlit uplands.

“But, if we fail, then all our dreams, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new dark age made more sinister, and perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science.

“Let us, therefore, brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves, that if the Warriors Empire last for a thousand years, men will still say, ‘THIS WAS THEIR FINEST HOUR.’”

A victory, tonight, will suit that narrative.

By Own Correspondent| Harare Magistrate Barbra Mateko on Tuesday 25 June 2019 dismissed the State’s bid to revoke the bail granted to Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) President Obert Masaraure and to commit him to prison for allegedly violating his bail conditions.

The State had petitioned the Harare Magistrates Court seeking to revoke the bail granted to Masaraure, who is out of custody on bail on charges of subverting constitutional government, after claiming that the trade unionist had breached his bail conditions by not reporting at Zimbabwe Republic Police station in Hwedza and by not residing at Chemhanza High School in Hwedza in Mashonaland East province, where he is employed as a teacher, as ordered by the High Court.

But Masaraure’s lawyers Jeremiah Bamu and Doug Coltart of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) opposed the State’s application arguing that the ARTUZ leader, who was arrested and detained on Friday 21 June 2019, had not breached any of his bail conditions and had religiously reported to the police and was staying at his given residential address.

Magistrate Mateko on Tuesday 25 June 2019 dismissed the State’s application for revocation of Masaraure’s bail conditions and ordered that the ARTUZ leader should regain his liberty which had been curtailed after he was arrested and detained at Harare Remand Prison.

Meanwhile, Harare Magistrate Jessie Kufa on Tuesday 25 June 2019 ordered that His Generation Church leader Pastor Evan Mawarire and Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Peter Mutasa should remain on remand after ruling that the passage of five months without placing the two pro-democracy campaigners on trial was not an inordinate delay to warrant their removal from remand.

Pastor Mawarire’s and Mutasa’s lawyers Alec Muchadehama and Tonderai Bhatasara of ZLHR had opposed the continued placement of the duo on remand arguing that the State had taken long in commencing with their trial.

Pastor Mawarire and Mutasa were arrested in January and charged with
subverting constitutional government as defined in section 22 of the
Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act after they allegedly
organised anti-government protests in January with the aim of
overthrowing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration from power.

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko is set to get his terminal benefits after engagements with the pension departments have progressed well.

This was revealed by Mphoko’s lawyer Welshman Ncube, in an interview with the Daily News on Tuesday. Said Ncube:

It’s almost resolved, he (Mphoko) was to engage with relevant departments so that they could see the most expeditious way of resolving the issue.

In my last conversation with him, he was so happy with the progress they were making in resolving the issue. I hope it would be settled to finality in that direct dialogue between him and the relevant pension departments.

Mphoko was appointed Vice President in 2014 by the then President Robert Mugabe.

He lost his post in November 2017 when Mugabe was ousted through a military coup.

According to the Daily News, Mphoko, who was a diplomat before he was appointed Vice President, is demanding that government pay him a salary equivalent to a sitting Vice President for life, get access to State security, an office, a government vehicle, telephone, secretary and domestic workers in line with the national charter.

It has been suggested that a sticking point in Mphoko getting his pension has been Statutory Instrument 86 of 2015 which states that a Vice President who served at least one term in office can enjoy exit packages such as a security officer, two drivers, and domestic workers.

Meanwhile, Mphoko did not serve a full term. He was in office between 2014 and 2017.

-Daily News

ZANU-PF Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu yesterday said Chief Felix Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni is in the habit of making false allegations against Government and the ruling party due to ignorance since he spent many years out of the country.

Testifying before Bulawayo magistrate Ms Gladmore Mushove in a matter in which Chief Ndiweni and his 13 subjects are accused of destroying a villager’s property, Mpofu said Chief Ndiweni was out of touch with reality.

The former Home Affairs and Culture Minister came to testify after Chief Ndiweni alleged that Mpofu was behind his arrest and had influenced the complainant in their matter, Mr Fetti Mbele, to file criminal charges.

“The first accused person (Chief Ndiweni) has been raising false allegations against Zanu-PF and the Government. His problem is that he has been out of the country for a long time hence he has lost touch with the goings on in the country” Mpofu said.

He said he didn’t even know the complainant in the matter, saying when the incident happened he was in Harare.

“I was actually in Harare when the incident happened and in addition to that I don’t even know Mr Mbele (the complainant) and even if the court asks me to identify him, I won’t be able to positively identify him,” Mpofu said.

He also denied having held a meeting with Chief Ndiweni whom he described as a “political foe.”

“I have never had any meeting with the first accused person. Other than that we are not related in any way except that he is a political foe who could issue statement after statement about me. He makes a lot of anti-Government and Zanu-PF statements and that is what I know,” Cde Mpofu said.

He also denied allegations that he flexed his political muscle by using his position as Home Affairs Minister to influence police at Mbembesi Police Station to arrest the accused.

“I have never spoken to any police officer at Mbembesi Police Station in the last five years. It is through the Ntabazinduna leadership that I got to know of the matter after they had notified me as their MP. I then referred them to women lawyers associations since the case involved a woman,” Mpofu said.

Chief Ndiweni told the court that the charges they were facing stemmed from Mpofu’s efforts to fix him after he filed criminal charges against him alleging that he stole his late father, Chief Khayisa’s 200 head of cattle.

He said he reported the theft at Mbembesi Police Station but Mpofu, who was then Home Affairs and Culture Minister, allegedly facilitated the docket’s disappearance.

Mpofu has since filed a $300 000 lawsuit against Chief Ndiweni over the allegations and the matter is pending.

According to court papers, Mr Mbele of Ntabazinduna was banished from the village by the chief after his wife Ms Nonkangelo Mpengesi was allegedly caught having sex with another villager.

In July last year, Chief Ndiweni ruled that Mr Mbele and his “adulterous” wife should be banished from Sifelani village, saying “prostitution” will not be tolerated in his area.

Mr Dumisani Dube, early last year, asked the court to subpoena Mpofu to testify in court following allegations by the traditional leader implicating him in their arrest.

However, Mpofu, through an affidavit dated July 6, 2018, which was brought to court by his lawyer Mr Byron Sengweni, declined to testify saying he knew nothing about the matter.

Mr Dube then sought a court order compelling Mpofu to attend court after which the latter was served with the summons.

Chief Ndiweni and the other accused persons are denying the violence charges levelled against them by Mr Mbele.

The prosecutor, Mr Kudakwashe Jaravaza, said on July 26 last year at around 4PM, Mbele and his wife arrived from Bulawayo to find some villagers standing outside their homestead.

Kimpton Sibanda (72), a village head and two other villagers, claimed they were ordered by Chief Ndiweni to destroy Mbele’s garden fence and the kraal.

“Sibanda instructed the villagers to destroy the fence and kraal. At around 5PM, Chief Ndiweni arrived and ordered the villagers to continue destroying Mr Mbele’s fence and kraal,” said Mr Jaravaza.

The order followed Mr Mbele’s alleged defiance of Chief Ndiweni’s verdict to divorce his wife.

Chief Ndiweni had given a ruling that Mr Mbele’s wife should vacate her husband’s home, but she did not comply with the order since they had resolved the matter as a couple, prompting the chief to order the destruction of his fence and kraal.
The trial continues on July 3.

– state media

As Zimbabwe and Uganda national soccer teams clash in the Total Africa Cup of Nations tonight, supporters from both countries have been engaged in a Twitter war in what has raised the stakes for the do or die match for the warriors.

Warriors of Zimbabwe who fell to the Pharaohs of Egypt in the opening match are looking for nothing but victory to entertain any hopes of proceeding to the knock out stages.

On the other hand Uganda who won their first March against Congo are looking for nothing but three points to seal a place in the next round of the tournament.

With the match proving a crucial encounter for both sides, fans have not been left out as they have created different harsh-tags including #Iwoundntvisitugandabecause which was created by Zimbabweans to mock their Ugandan fellows.

Ugandans have not been short of things to mock Zimbabweans and could have won as they have not left anything from the hyper-inflation, shortage of bread, and poverty in the country.

Some of the interesting tweets in the ongoing Twitter war include the following below:

The Ministry of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services has announced that when Zimbabweans in Diaspora send money to a recipient in Zimbabwe there is an option to collect it in the same currency that it was sent in.

Please note that Diaspora remittances shall continue to be received in foreign currency. Recipients shall have 3 options to receive remittances:

In cash 
Sell their remittances on a willing seller willing buyer basis to Bureaux de Change, or
Deposit into Individual Nostro FCA

The message was sent after Zimbabweans said they were confused over what happens to their money when it is sent from Diaspora.

MDC Vice President had earlier on allege that the money is collected as local currency using the interbank rate.

On Monday Minister of Finance Mthuli Ncube outlawed the use of multiple currency in Zimbabwe.

“Nothing much has happened. We have normalised. We shall continue to have pronouncements to inform people. What is critical is . . . ukavona tofamba zvinenge zvagadzirika,” he said.

State Media| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has thrown his weight behind the scrapping of the multi-currency system and adoption of a single domestic transactional unit, explaining the development will help the economy to grow out of the bog of the previous regime.

Further, the President said conditions for the introduction of a new currency are in place as key fundamentals such as decreased spending, increased revenues and budget surpluses, have been achieved through sweeping reforms embarked upon since October last year.

He said the use of multiple currencies since 2009, denied the country control of monetary policy and left the economy at the mercy of US dollar pricing, which brought inflation.

Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the African Union – United Nations Wildlife Economy Summit in Victoria Falls yesterday, President Mnangagwa said Government has not banned possession of foreign currency, but its use for domestic transactions, buttressing the policy announced by fiscal and monetary authorities on Monday.Watch Mnangagwa speak on the new currency

He also said by having its own currency, the country has returned to “normalcy”.

“Zimbabwe has gone back to normalcy; the normalcy is the country must have its own currency. We have been living in an abnormal situation.

“We have removed a basket of currencies we had. Our currency is denominated by coins, notes and RTGS, all that is domestic currency and can be used for (local) transactions,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said those with foreign currency would have to exchange for the Zimbabwe dollar at bureaux de change for them to transact, while foreigners could still bring their Visa cards and swipe.

“Nothing much has happened. We have normalised. We shall continue to have pronouncements to inform people. What is critical is . . . ukavona tofamba zvinenge zvagadzirika,” he said.

On Monday, Government removed the multi-currency regime and restricted domestic transactions to the local currency, the Zimbabwe dollar, to enhance the affordability of goods and services by the majority.

The currency reforms were done through Statutory Instrument 142 of 2019.

Government took the route on realising that the market was choosing to price most goods and services in US dollars when the majority of citizens were earning the local unit.

Posting on his Twitter handle yesterday, President Mnangagwa conceded economic growth remained a mirage, hence the need to introduce a local currency.

“It has always been clear that for our economy to truly take-off, we need our own currency. While the multi-currency regime helped to stabilise the economy, it did not give us control of monetary policy and left us at the mercy of US dollar pricing which has been a root cause of inflation.

“When the majority earn in the local unit, but goods are priced in US dollars, the outcome will only ever be a two-tiered economy: stable and affordable prices for those with access to (US) dollars, while the majority face an unrealistically high cost of living. This is unfair and unsustainable,” said President Mnangagwa.

He explained that before the introduction of a local currency, it was important that “key fundamentals” were first put in place.

“Central to this was regaining control of our budget through decreased spending, increased revenues and, for the first time in recent memory, budget surpluses.

“Under the careful guidance of (Finance Minister) Professor (Mthuli) Ncube, this has been achieved. As a result, yesterday (Monday) we passed a Statutory Instrument to abolish the use of multiple currencies, and make the Zimbabwe dollar the sole legal tender with immediate effect.

“This is a key component of our Transitional Stabilisation Programme, and an important step in restoring normalcy to our economy. Government and the RBZ are taking the necessary steps to ensure this move is a success, through increasing the flow of forex into the interbank market while also making forex available to individuals and small businesses through bureau de changes,” said President Mnangagwa.

Apart from increasing efficiency of the interbank, the RBZ has put in place letters of credit (LCs) amounting to US$330 million for importation of critical commodities such as fuel, cooking oil and wheat, to buttressing removal of the multi-currency system.

The central bank has also directed banks to transfer to it, the RTGS$/ZWL$s they are holding as counterpart funds for the foreign currency historical or legacy debt that Government, through the Reserve Bank, is assuming at the rate of 1: 1 between the RTGS$ and the US$.

This measure is set to mop up about ZLW$1,2 billion from the market by end of this week.

The interest rate on the RBZ overnight window has also been increased to 50 percent per year from the current 15 percent, to cushion bankers from the vagaries of inflation.

President Mnangagwa reiterated yesterday that on a day-to-day basis, SI 142 of 2019 will “change very little” as people will still be paid in RTGS dollar and bond notes, while goods and services will be priced in that currency.

“Those holding Nostro (foreign currency) accounts will still have access to those accounts in the currency they held,” he said, adding that the only way forward is to reform so as to build a country in which “all have the opportunity to prosper”.

“We cannot be fearful of change, but must boldly embrace it as we move forward. The conditions are in place for Zimbabwe to have its own currency.

“Let us work together, as one people, to make it a success,” he said.

The reforms appeared to have an immediate positive impact as forex parallel market rates tumbled on low demand as citizens can now purchase products in the local currency.

Before the intervention, US dollar prices were ridiculously lower that local currency prices, a move that pushed consumers to the parallel market to buy forex.

Below is the letter to Bank CEO’s from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe regarding the re-introduced Zim dollar and the banning of forex

ATTENTION: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Dear Sir/Madam,

1. Introduction

1.1          Reference is made to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (Legal Tender)Regulations, Statutory Instrument 142 of 2019 issued by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development and the Press Statement announced by the Governor of the Reserve Bank on 24 June 2019 on Strengthening the Interbank Foreign Exchange Market. In order to operationalize these measures, Authorised Dealers are advised as follows: –

Removal of the Multi-currency System

2.1       Authorised Dealers are advised of the discontinuation of the multi-currency system with effect from 24 June 2019. All domestic transactions shall now be settled in Zimbabwe dollars, the sole legal tender in Zimbabwe which is represented by bond notes and coins and electronic currency i.e. RTGS dollars.

2.2      Effectively, the use of foreign currency to settle domestic transactions has been removed and the basket of multi-currencies, that is, USD, GBP, ZAR, EUR, BWP, JPY, CNY, AU$ and Indian Rupee shall only be used to settle international payments or those services exempt from this requirement as per Section 3 of Statutory Instrument 142 of 2019.

2.3   Similarly, the pricing on all domestic contracts, including the displaying of prices in all outlets in Zimbabwe, shall be effected and/ or displayed in the local unit of account.

3. Administration of Foreign Currency Accounts

3.1     Authorised Dealers are advised that the operation of Nostro FCAs shall remain in place for purposes of receiving offshore funds and to facilitate foreign payments. The following Foreign Currency Accounts shall remain in operation;

3.2 The Nostro FCA (Domestic) was funded from local foreign exchange transactions. In view of these new policy measures where the Zimbabwe dollar shall be the sole legal tender, existing Nostro FCA (Domestic) shall be allowed to receive deposits up to 30 June 2019 to enable account holders to deposit their cash holdings realised from trade undertaken before 24 June 2019.

3.3     In cases where local service providers e.g. transporters, consulting firms, etc,are paid from offshore sources for services rendered locally, such funds shall continue to be deposited into the Nostro FCA (Domestic).

3.4       Funds in all these accounts listed in Table 1 above will retain their foreign currency status and shall continue to be utilised for the settlement of international transactions. In cases where the holder of such an account intends to settle domestic transactions, they shall be required to liquidate their foreign currency account balances to the interbank on a willing seller willing buyer basis.

4. Foreign Currency Cash withdrawals

4.1      Authorised Dealers are advised that unconditional authorization for foreign currency cash withdrawals by corporates has now been removed. However, withdrawals by the same on deserving cases such as road toll fees are now permissible only on a case by case basis subject to the application of Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) principles on the withdrawer. These principles to be applied should be in line with Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Finance of Terrorism AML/CFT regulatory requirements and best practice.

4.2       Authorised Dealers are reminded of the limit of export of cash in person or baggage which remains at US$2 000 per exit as per Exchange Control Directive RS119 dated 04 August 2017.

4.3     For individuals, the current policy shall remain in force with Authorised Dealers also required to apply the usual KYC and AML/CFT standards.

5. Administration of Legacy Debts

5.1      Authorised Dealers are hereby directed to transfer to the Reserve Bank, all RTGS Dollar balances in relation to legacy debts registered with the Reserve Bank in fulfillment of Exchange Control Directive RU28 dated 22 February 2019.Measures to Enhance the Interbank Market

6. Retention Thresholds and Period for Export Receipts

6.1.1           Authorised Dealers are advised that the retention thresholds for export receipts and tobacco and cotton offshore loan drawdowns shall remain in place as previously communicated under Exchange Control Directive RU28 dated 22 February 2019. For ease of administration, the retention thresholds are restated as follows;

6.1.2          Authorised Dealers are also reminded that the retention period within which an exporter is entitled to utilize their retained export receipts remains within 30 days from the date of receipt. As per Exchange Control Directive RU28 dated 22 February 2019, all unutilized balances shall after the 30 day retention period, be offloaded into the interbank market at the prevailing market exchange rate and reported to Exchange Control on the Daily Return on Interbank Trading Transactions.

6.2 Foreign currency for the interbank market

6.2.1       In order to enhance interbank market trading, Authorised Dealers are advised that the Reserve Bank shall sell 50% of the export retention due to the Central Bank to the interbank market. Letters of Credit shall continue to be utilised for importation of essential commodities that include fuel, cooking oil and wheat.

6.3 Removal of US$10,000 limit on Bureaux de Change transactions

6.3.1  In order to deepen the operations of the interbank foreign exchange market and to enhance the operations of Bureaux de Change, with effect from 25 June 2019, Bureaux de Change are now permitted to buy and sell foreign currency without any limit in terms of the amount.

6.4 Removal of the 2.5% Margin for Interbank Market Transactions

6.4.1         Exchange Control advises of the immediate removal of the 2.5% margin on foreign exchange trades in the interbank market which was previously communicated under Exchange Control Directive RU80 dated 22 May 2019.

7. Payment of Small Scale Gold Producers

7.1     Authorised Dealers are advised that the current gold marketing framework for small scale gold producers shall continue to apply. For those small scale gold producers with Nostro FCAs, the funds shall not be subjected to the 30 day retention period.

8. Payment of Large Scale Gold Producers

8.1      Authorised Dealers are advised that the current payment arrangements for large scale gold producers shall continue to apply and the retention thresholds have remained the same as previously communicated by Exchange Control in Exchange Control Directive RU28 dated 22 February 2019.

9. Administration of Nostro FCAs for Tobacco Growers

9.1 In terms of Exchange Control Circular Number 5, dated 16 April 2019, tobacco growers are entitled to receive part of their sales proceeds in United States Dollars, deposited into their Nostro FCAs.
9.2 Authorised Dealers are advised that this arrangement shall continue and the accounts shall continue to be administered as per the current arrangements, where tobacco growers are paid 50% of sale proceeds in foreign currency into their FCA. However, in the event that the tobacco grower intends to meet local obligations, the sale proceeds must first be converted to Zimbabwe Dollars through the interbank foreign exchange market.

10. Treatment of Offshore Loans Drawdowns for Financing Tobacco Production

10.1 Authorised Dealers are advised that tobacco merchants shall retain 100% of funds drawn down for the purpose of financing tobacco production.
10.2 Where there is need for disbursement of working capital to the contracted farmer, the proceeds shall be deposited into the grower’s Nostro FCA (Special) which can be opened with a bank of their choice. The tobacco grower shall then liquidate the proceeds from the Nostro FCA (Special) to meet local obligations.

11. Administration of Payments to Cotton Growers

11.1 Authorised Dealers are advised that the current cotton marketing arrangements shall continue to operate.

12. Downstream Payments by Exporters

12.1 Authorised Dealers are advised that the operation of transitory accounts shall be maintained. These accounts are, however, not transacting accounts, but shall be used for distribution of export proceeds to respective downstream beneficiaries.

12.2 In order to maintain or operate transitory accounts for exporters, Authorised Dealers shall seek prior Exchange Control authority.

12.3 In light of the above, Authorised Dealers are advised that producers who sell their produce for consolidation for export e.g. fresh cut flowers and macadamia nuts shall be eligible to access their foreign currency through the Special FCA framework. Funds in these accounts, shall be utilised for the settlement of international transactions. In cases where the holder of such an account intends to settle domestic transactions, they shall be required to liquidate their foreign currency account balances to the interbank on a willing seller willing buyer basis.

13. Review of Export Documentation charges

13.1 In order to promote ease of doing business and reduce cost of export, Authorised Dealers are advised that all export documentation shall be available free of charge.

14. Trading of Dual Listed Shares

14.1 Authorised Dealers are advised that with effect from 25 June 2019, any investor who shall purchase a dual listed share on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) shall only be allowed to sell the share on the ZSE or on an external stock exchange after a vesting period of ninety (90) days from the date of initial purchase.

14.2 For investors wishing to uplift dual listed shares from external bourses for purposes of selling the shares on the ZSE, such sales shall only be allowed to be executed after a period of ninety (90) days from the date of registration on the ZSE.

14.3 For investors who have already acquired dual listed shares on the ZSE and are desirous of disposing of such shares, Exchange Control directs that such sales can only be allowed in instances where the shares have been purchased on or before 20 March 2019.

14.4 The procedures for trading in dual listed shares on the ZSE as previously communicated by Exchange Control on 26 May 2016 shall remain operational.

15. Disbursement of International Remittances

15.1 In order to encourage and facilitate the flow of foreign currency, diaspora remittances shall continue to be received in foreign currency. The recipients shall have the option to receive remittances in cash or sell their remittances on a willing seller willing buyer basis to Bureaux de Change and Authorised Dealers or deposit into Individual Nostro FCA.

16. Exchange Control Returns

16.1 Authorised Dealers are reminded of the need to ensure compliance with this Directive and to continue submission of Exchange Control Returns as required. Non-compliance with any of the afore-stated provisions is a violation of the provisions of Section 5 (i) and (ii) of the Exchange Control Act (Chapter 22:05) which require persons to comply with, among others, the terms or conditions of any permit, authority, permission, direction, notice, order or other instrument made or issued under or by virtue of the Act.

17. Please be guided accordingly.

Yours Faithfully

C. Tembo

Acting Director

Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service Christian Leffler has further extended the call for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to expand his political parties dialogue and make conducive environment for the opposition MDC to be part of the talks.

Speaking after paying a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa at his Munhumutapa Offices in Harare yesterday, Mr Leffler described the progress outlined by the President on the nation’s political dialogue during their meeting as encouraging.

“We had today, a detailed account from the President on the national dialogue, which I found to be very encouraging and we are confident that by the time we have the next political dialogue at the level of EU and the Zimbabwean authorities, there will be progress to report in this respect and that would help us define the future paths forward for closer cooperation,” said Mr Leffler.

Mr Leffler, whose engagement with President Mnangagwa lasted close to an hour, said the European Union was committed to seeing progress in Zimbabwe.

“I was very honoured to have this meeting with His Excellency, the President. The length of the meeting reflects the strong engagement between Zimbabwe and the commitment the European Union has to Zimbabwe, the nation, the people, to see how we can accomplish progress in this country,” he said.

He said there was also need for a broad national dialogue to anchor the Government’s reform project.

Mr Leffler said this broad national dialogue should include different groupings, which include political groupings in Parliament, the churches, the youths and other sections of the society.

“We indicated our determination to continue to work with this country at all levels, the dialogue and to find ways forward to support the key reform processes in the interest of a stronger and more stable cohesion Zimbabwe that can then bring the economic, social and political benefits to the people,” he said.

Apart from the country’s reform agenda, Mr Leffler said they also discussed post-election disturbances and demonstrations that rocked the country.

Early this month Zimbabwe and the EU launched an historic formal dialogue which was based on Article 8 of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement which governs relations between member states of the African-Carribean-Pacific regions and the EU.

The development was a major realisation of President Mnangagwa’s re-engagement policy which seeks to reintegrate Zimbabwe into the international community following previous sour relations.

The next such meeting is expected to be held in November this year following the parties’ agreement to meet twice a year.

“Nothing much has happened. We have normalised. We shall continue to have pronouncements to inform people. What is critical is . . . ukavona tofamba zvinenge zvagadzirika,” he said.

State Media| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has thrown his weight behind the scrapping of the multi-currency system and adoption of a single domestic transactional unit, explaining the development will help the economy to grow out of the bog of the previous regime.

Further, the President said conditions for the introduction of a new currency are in place as key fundamentals such as decreased spending, increased revenues and budget surpluses, have been achieved through sweeping reforms embarked upon since October last year.

He said the use of multiple currencies since 2009, denied the country control of monetary policy and left the economy at the mercy of US dollar pricing, which brought inflation.

Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the African Union – United Nations Wildlife Economy Summit in Victoria Falls yesterday, President Mnangagwa said Government has not banned possession of foreign currency, but its use for domestic transactions, buttressing the policy announced by fiscal and monetary authorities on Monday.

He also said by having its own currency, the country has returned to “normalcy”.

“Zimbabwe has gone back to normalcy; the normalcy is the country must have its own currency. We have been living in an abnormal situation.

“We have removed a basket of currencies we had. Our currency is denominated by coins, notes and RTGS, all that is domestic currency and can be used for (local) transactions,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said those with foreign currency would have to exchange for the Zimbabwe dollar at bureaux de change for them to transact, while foreigners could still bring their Visa cards and swipe.

“Nothing much has happened. We have normalised. We shall continue to have pronouncements to inform people. What is critical is . . . ukavona tofamba zvinenge zvagadzirika,” he said.

On Monday, Government removed the multi-currency regime and restricted domestic transactions to the local currency, the Zimbabwe dollar, to enhance the affordability of goods and services by the majority.

The currency reforms were done through Statutory Instrument 142 of 2019.

Government took the route on realising that the market was choosing to price most goods and services in US dollars when the majority of citizens were earning the local unit.

Posting on his Twitter handle yesterday, President Mnangagwa conceded economic growth remained a mirage, hence the need to introduce a local currency.

“It has always been clear that for our economy to truly take-off, we need our own currency. While the multi-currency regime helped to stabilise the economy, it did not give us control of monetary policy and left us at the mercy of US dollar pricing which has been a root cause of inflation.

“When the majority earn in the local unit, but goods are priced in US dollars, the outcome will only ever be a two-tiered economy: stable and affordable prices for those with access to (US) dollars, while the majority face an unrealistically high cost of living. This is unfair and unsustainable,” said President Mnangagwa.

He explained that before the introduction of a local currency, it was important that “key fundamentals” were first put in place.

“Central to this was regaining control of our budget through decreased spending, increased revenues and, for the first time in recent memory, budget surpluses.

“Under the careful guidance of (Finance Minister) Professor (Mthuli) Ncube, this has been achieved. As a result, yesterday (Monday) we passed a Statutory Instrument to abolish the use of multiple currencies, and make the Zimbabwe dollar the sole legal tender with immediate effect.

“This is a key component of our Transitional Stabilisation Programme, and an important step in restoring normalcy to our economy. Government and the RBZ are taking the necessary steps to ensure this move is a success, through increasing the flow of forex into the interbank market while also making forex available to individuals and small businesses through bureau de changes,” said President Mnangagwa.

Apart from increasing efficiency of the interbank, the RBZ has put in place letters of credit (LCs) amounting to US$330 million for importation of critical commodities such as fuel, cooking oil and wheat, to buttressing removal of the multi-currency system.

The central bank has also directed banks to transfer to it, the RTGS$/ZWL$s they are holding as counterpart funds for the foreign currency historical or legacy debt that Government, through the Reserve Bank, is assuming at the rate of 1: 1 between the RTGS$ and the US$.

This measure is set to mop up about ZLW$1,2 billion from the market by end of this week.

The interest rate on the RBZ overnight window has also been increased to 50 percent per year from the current 15 percent, to cushion bankers from the vagaries of inflation.

President Mnangagwa reiterated yesterday that on a day-to-day basis, SI 142 of 2019 will “change very little” as people will still be paid in RTGS dollar and bond notes, while goods and services will be priced in that currency.

“Those holding Nostro (foreign currency) accounts will still have access to those accounts in the currency they held,” he said, adding that the only way forward is to reform so as to build a country in which “all have the opportunity to prosper”.

“We cannot be fearful of change, but must boldly embrace it as we move forward. The conditions are in place for Zimbabwe to have its own currency.

“Let us work together, as one people, to make it a success,” he said.

The reforms appeared to have an immediate positive impact as forex parallel market rates tumbled on low demand as citizens can now purchase products in the local currency.

Before the intervention, US dollar prices were ridiculously lower that local currency prices, a move that pushed consumers to the parallel market to buy forex.

“I can confirm that we received reports that Cde Gumbwanda was admitted at Chiredzi Hospital after suffering from pneumonia. 

Zanu PF Member of Parliament (MP) for Zaka East constituency, Caston Ringisai Gumbwanda has died.He was 67.

Gumbwanda died today at Cooporate 24  private hospital in Harare where he had been admitted after suffering from pneumonia.

Minister of Sate for  Masvingo province who is also Zanu-PF provinvial  Chair Ezra Chadzamira  confirmed the loss.

“I can confirm that we received reports that Cde Gumbwanda was admitted at Chiredzi Hospital after suffering from pneumonia.  He was then transferred to Harare where he died today . This is a big blow to us as a party and a big loss to the people of Masvingo province and Zimbabwe as a whole,” said  Chadzamira.

Sources within the ruling party indicated that Gumbwanda contracted Pneumonia a couple of weeks ago after he got a lift on the back of a pick up truck while hiking from Harare to Masvingo.

Parliamentarians in the current parliament have not been provided with vehicles as has been the norm. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube was reluctant to buy the expensive top of the range vehicles for the over three hundred legislators as a government expenditure cutting measure.

ZANU PF parliamentarians made the job easier for Mthuli Ncube when they declared that they did not want the parliament vehicles as the country was going through tough austerity measures.

Gumbwanda took over the seat from his ZANU PF colleague the late MP Samson Mukanduri who died last year.

Deputy Police Commissioner-General (Human Resources) Mind Ngirandi revealed yesterday that the newly acquired expensive anti riot gear and training are a fulfilment of recommendations made by a Commission of Inquiry led by former South Africa President Kgalema Motlanthe late last year.

Evidently in fear of possible civil unrest likely to erupt in the country as a result of an unexpected reintroduction of the Zimbabwe dollar and government continuously fails to address the economic situation, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has started equipping police and training police officers to deal heavy handedly with rioters.

Deputy Police Commissioner-General (Human Resources) Mind Ngirandi revealed yesterday that the newly acquired expensive anti riot gear and training are a fulfilment of recommendations made by a Commission of Inquiry led by former South Africa President Kgalema Motlanthe late last year.

The seven-member Commission of Inquiry was appointed by President Mnangagwa last year to look into post-election violence that broke out in Harare resulting in the death of six people.

Officially opening the 6th Rebranding and Refresher Training Programme for junior officers at Ntabazinduna Training Depot in Matabeleland North, Deputy Commissioner-General Ngirandi revealed that police are now being equipped to be able to deal with any future riots.

The week-long training is being attended by 68 junior officers who hold ranks of Inspector, Chief Inspector and CID officers from Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South.

“In the same vein we have already begun implementing recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry into the August 1 2018 post-election violence, which was chaired by His Excellency Kgalema Motlanthe, which include equipping the police with necessary skills and capacity for dealing with rioters and further training of the police in order to be professional and non-partisan in the interests of national cohesion and the protection of all citizens,” said Dep Comm-Gen Ngirandi.

“Resultantly, training and supervision of police officers shall be ongoing in order to ensure that strategies to rebrand and transform the organisation dovetails with Government’s national trajectory and above all people’s expectations and needs.”

The Motlanthe Commission also recommended that police should aim to prevent corporal failings in the future.

Dep Comm-Gen Ngirandi said police officers should strive to gain the public’s trust. He said officers should be cognisant that in whatever they do they are under public scrutiny while executing their duties.

“Remember that this is a critical moment for all of you because the eyes and ears of the nation are upon your next step as you seek to discharge your duties. You must therefore embed yourselves in the people, engage them, understand their daily challenges and social ills. The old villager in Zezani must have peace of mind knowing that his cattle in the kraal are safe from rustlers,” Dep Comm-Gen Ngirandi said.

“In the same breadth the middle-aged vendor in Chinotimba must also have confidence that her teenage girl can safely walk from school without fear that she might be raped or kidnapped. Find out how people want to be policed.”

“A Central Committee meeting which was set to be held at the party headquarters main hall at 10AM on Friday has been postponed,”

THE Zanu-PF Politburo will convene an urgent meeting at the party’s headquarters in Harare today following what party insiders say is as a result of the sudden unprecedented announcement of the return of the Zimbabwe dollar outside the ruling party’s supreme decision making body between congresses.

In a statement yesterday, party spokesperson Simon Khaya Moyo said a Central Committee meeting which had been scheduled for Friday had been postponed to a date to be advised.

“The Zanu-PF secretary for administration Cde Obert Mpofu wishes to advise all members that there shall be a Politburo meeting on Wednesday June 26, 2019 at the party headquarters at 10AM.

“A Central Committee meeting which was set to be held at the party headquarters main hall at 10AM on Friday has been postponed,” said Khaya Moyo.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube reportedly met in Maputo Mozambique after gruelling meetings with some potential investors and funders where they decided to prematurely scrap out the multi currency regime and reintroduce the Zimbabwe dollar before extensively consulting within the ruling party.

The urgent Politiburo Meeting today is expected to be filled with fireworks as the ruling party top leadership seeks understanding on how the move is going to be sustained.

THE Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Professor Mthuli Ncube, yesterday announced the appointment of senior executives to oversee the smooth running of key parastatals under his ministry.

The appointments were made after consultations with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Mr Vusilizwe Vuma has been appointed chief executive officer of the Deposit Protection Corporation (DPC) while Mrs Grace Muradzikwa is now a commissioner of the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC).

Professor Ncube also announced the appointment of other IPEC board members who include Mr Albert Nduna (chairman), Mr David Mureriwa, Ms Annah Mashingaidze, Mr Godwin Nyangadza and Ms Judith Rusike.

The Minister also appointed Mr Joe Mutizwa as the new board chair for the Infrastructural Development Bank of Zimbabwe with board members being Dr Khupukile Mlambo, Mr Luke Ngwerume, Ms Sibusisiwe Bango, Mr Reginald Mugwara, Mr Jeremiah Mutonga, Mr Tadious Muzorora, Mr Nobert Mugwagwa, Mr Zvikomborero Hoko and Mr Leonard Magara.

Mr Taguma Mahonde has been appointed director general of the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat).

Farai Dziva|MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has accused Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube of taking the people for granted through voodoo economics.

See Chamisa’ s statement:

GUERRILLA ECONOMICS and ambush currency measures are ill-advised, destructive and confidence-draining.

Zim-dollarization requires that macroeconomic fundamentals,public confidence, trust,fiscal discipline, political stability and legitimacy to be in place for it to be meaningfully sustainable.

Our economics suffers from too much state
control and excessive politics otherwise known as economic dirigisme.

It is my considered view that certain key benchmarks need to be achieved before the local currency can be sustainably introduced in order to anchor the local currency.

These benchmarks include: attaining a sustainable GDP growth rate of at least 7%; low and stable inflation; reducing the high debt ratios to very low and sustainable levels; increasing the level of savings and investments to at least 25% of GDP; reducing the balance-of-payments deficit to less than 5% of GDP; increasing the export level to at least 25% of GDP; high levels of productive capacity; political stability and legitimacy.

More importantly, foreign-currency reserves need to be built up to sustainable levels to anchor the Zimbabwe dollar and to defend it in the event of a currency or speculative attack.

We have the SMART economic blueprint as our alternative to the current voodoo approach to economics, think differently.

Farai Dziva|The MDC Youth Assembly has vowed to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government over the prompt ban on the use of the United States dollar as legal tender.

In an interview with ZimEye.com MDC Youth Assembly spokesperson Stephen Chuma said:

“It is unfortunate that the Emmerson Mnangagwa believes he can fix the economy through command economics.

Even an Ordinary level economics student can clearly see that the root of our problems is political.

The economic meltdown is just a symptom of a legitimacy crisis emanating from a disputed election hence banning of foreign currency as a way to fix economy can only make sense to cow boys.”

He added:” It is quite clear that the move to ban foreign currency is a short circuit decision to silence the military and other civil servants who are demanding to be paid in forex since basic prices of goods are being charged in forex.

Unfortunately, it will not work because the people through mass action will in turn ban from Munhumutapa offices those who ban the use of forex.”

By A Correspondent| Zanu PF Member of Parliament (MP) for Zaka East constituency, Caston Ringisai Gumbwanda has died.

He was 67.

Gumbwanda died today at Cooporate 24  private hospital in Harare where he had been admitted after suffering from pneumonia.

Minister of Sate for  Masvingo province who is also Zanu-PF provincial  Chair Ezra Chadzamira  confirmed the death.

He said:

“I can confirm that we received reports that Gumbwanda was admitted at Chiredzi Hospital after suffering from pneumonia.  He was then transferred to Harare where he died today . This is a big blow to us as a party and a big loss to the people of Masvingo province and Zimbabwe as a whole.”

The late Gumbwanda replaced the late MP Samson Mukanduri who died last year.

By Own Correspondent| A Munhenzva bus travelling from Johannesburg was today involved in an accident around Lundi – Rutenga area.

Circumstances regarding the cause of the accident were however still unclear bythe time of writing.

The police are yet to release an official statement.

Below are pictures of the bus…

By Own Correspondent| Gokwe Nembudziya legislator Justice Mayor Wadyajena has responded to youth leader Lewis Matutu’s allegations that he and his team were stifling the corruption fight initiated by the party’s youth wing.

Zanu Pf Youths on Monday named several party heavy weights among them Obert Mpofu, Prisca Mupfumira and Jorum Gumbo and said they should clear their names before presenting themselves for duty as party cadres.

However, the allegations by Matutu were countered by some of those implicated including Henrietta Rushwaya who instead accused Matutu of corruption.

The Zanu Pf Youth Wing Secretary however took to Twitter and expressed his discontentment and accused Wadyajena and his team of trying to stop the corruption fight.

He said:

“We are aware of what Justice Wadyajena and team are planning to sabotage our anti corruption campaign. We are ready for you.”

Wadyajena responded and accused Matutu of being petty since he was the one who was corrupt.

He said:

“Get serious! We are all against corruption. If you are genuine about addressing corruption go to ZRP or ZACC and report! Not grandstanding with meaningless presser and all because makanyimwa mari. You should start by addressing corruption charges laid against you and your team. Pathetic!”

https://twitter.com/JusticeMayorW/status/1143584324907864064?s=19

https://twitter.com/MatutuLewis/status/1143542999227555841?s=19

By Own Correspondent- MDC Vice President Tendai Biti says the SI 142 of 2019 gazetted on Monday by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube is the last straw that shall lead to the removal of ZANU PF from power.

“Years after Emmerson and his lot are gone SI 142 of 2019 will be remembered as the turning point, their Sarajevo.” Biti said. “That moment it became clear even to the most ardent, that they had outlived their usefulness. That they had become a threat not only to the country but to themselves too.”

The Former Finance Minister added that the Zim Dollar does not satisfy all fundamentals needed for a new currency.

“A currency is a mirror of the national economy. It reflects output. It reflects the current account. It reflects confidence and fundamentals. It is absolutely insane to de-dollarize without production, without reserves and with a confidence deficit. It is politics.”

Zimbabweans have received the banning of foreign currency with mixed feelings and expectations. On Tuesday some of the shops were closed to align their pricing with the new directive.

https://twitter.com/MatutuLewis/status/1143542999227555841?s=19

By Own Correspondent- Embattled ZANU PF Secretary for Administration Dr Obert Moses Mpofu appeared at the Bulawayo Magistrates court on Tuesday on a matter where Ntabazinduna Chief Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni and 22 villagers are jointly accused of malicious damage to one Fetti Mbele’s property.

Mpofu became involved in the matter after Chief Ndiweni told the court last year that the case was Mpofu’s efforts to revenge for criminal charges Ndiweni had filed against him.

Ndiweni claimed that Mpofu stole 200 cattle from his late father Chief Khayisa Ndiweni. He also said that he had reported the matter to the police but the docket disappeared.

It is alleged that in 2017, Mbele and his wife fought over an adultery matter. The matter was reported to Ndiweni who ordered that Mbele’s wife should vacate the matrimonial home. Mbele and his wife later reconciled but Ndiweni demanded that the wife vacate.

Mbele’s wife did not and Ndiweni accused the duo of disrespecting the court. He allegedly destroyed Mbele’s fence and kraal, took Mbele’s cow and a calf as a fine and also took Mbele’s wife to her parents’ home against the couple’s will. He also reportedly threatened to destroy Mbele’s home if he did not vacate the area.

Mpofu was barred from entering ZANU PF offices by the ZANU PF Youth League after being accused of corruption allegations.

The Youths led by Lewis Matutu and Godfrey Tsenengamu said they are adviding Mpofu to stay at home and clear his name before he can be allowed to resume his duties at ZANU PF Headquaters.

Mpofu was instrumental in the installation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa as President of ZANU PF during the November 2017 coup.

263chat|Zanu PF Secretary for Youth League Lewis Matutu’s move to expose party members and business people allegedly involved in illegal foreign dealings and corruption has backfired amid accusations that he is extorting
bigwigs threatening to expose them on alleged corruption dealings.

Yesterday, Matutu named a number of party members including Obert Mpofu and Prisca Mupfumira as well as Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor Dr John Mangudya for being involved in corruption.

The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) executive, Henerieta Rushwaya who was also named on Matutu’s list said it was just unfortunate that the Zanu PF Youth league deputy secretary asked for farm equipment from her.

“It is just unfortunate that Matutu called me asking for farmVequipment and I told him that I did not have what he was asking about and I was shocked that he named me among corrupt people in the
country. That is ridiculous and I have recordings of his calls when push comes to the shove I am going to release the charts and recorded calls,” she fumed.

Sources said Matutu also savaged Wedza South constituency MP Tinoda
“Tinmac” Machakaire for buying Warriors jersey for USD 10 000 saying the youthful businessman was supposed to give the money to the Youth League so that they can fund their programs.

“Tinmac was under fire last week for purchasing a warriors jursey and
these guys wanted the money to come to the Youth League so that they
use it. Matutu was given money by Machakaire to use it at the Youth
League but he is yet to declare the money so he must shut up,” he
said.

Contacted for comment, Machakaire said he could not comment on the matter.

Another Zanu PF youthful MP for Gokwe Nembudziya constituency Justice Mayor Wadyajena took his twitter account to slam Matutu, labeling him an extortionist.

“We have backslid to the Grace era where G40 youths used extortion
against citisens to avoid public lynching. A country can’t be dictated to by a bunch of youth at a presser. Do they even understand the consequences of alleging corruption by head of Reserve Bank Zimbabwe for Corruption,” he said.

UNIFREIGHT Zimbabwe marketing executive Lisbon Monda said maybe he was mistakenly named because of false story published in a local weekly
newspaper.

Matutu was adamant saying those were just fabrications of people who were named.
“I am not blackmailing anyone and we are going head on,” he said.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa Tuesday morning said his government deserves credit for bringing back the Zimbabwean Dollar while banning the use of the multi-currency system

Mnangagwa’s government legalised the use of the US dollar, the Rand and other currencies while opting for the local currency.

He told reporters in Victoria Falls that the move will make Zimbabwe normal again as it was one of the few “abnormal” countries using the multi-currency system.

“Zimbabwe has gone back to normalcy and the normalcy is that a country must have its own currency. We were living in an abnormal situation and you must congratulate us for becoming normal again,” Mnangagwa said.

Questioned on whether the country would do away with the surrogate currency, the bond note, Mnangagwa said the local currency which is in circulation at the moment will continue to be used.

“Our current currency is dominated either by the coins, the bond notes or the RTGs. All that is still domestic and still allowed to do a national transaction,” Mnangagwa reiterated.

The re-introduction of the Zim dollar has been met with widespread scepticism as some fear for further economic collapse due to lack of confidence in the local currency.

All Africa|A school headmaster in Marondera died on the spot Sunday afternoon after falling from an avocado tree at his home while fetching the fruits he intended to go sell at his school.

He was identified as Cephas Kanyai.

Relatives of the deceased head who were among the mourners said they were not comfortable speaking to the media over the incident.

But mourners gathered at the head’s residence in Cherutombo suburb in Marondera town on Monday revealed details of the tragic incident.

According to neighbours, Kanyai was a headmaster at St. Ludger primary school just outside Marondera town.

They said tragedy struck when the head was busy collecting some avocados.

“He fell from an avocado tree on Sunday afternoon while collecting the fruits that he intended to sell at his school,” one of the mourners confided to mediaz.

“After falling from the tree, he landed on the security wall head-on and died on the spot. It is sad indeed,” he added.

Efforts to get a comment from Mashonaland East police spokesperson, Tendai Mwanza were unsuccessful.

However, Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general, Raymond Majongwe confirmed Kanyai’s death.

“A friend is telling me a teacher fell from an avocado tree and died in Marondera harvesting them for sell,” said Majongwe.

School teachers and other staff within the country’s education system are up in arms with government of poor wages.