OPPOSITION political parties, war veterans and civic society organisations yesterday rapped Zanu PF legislators for refusing to observe a minute of silence in honour of the late Zipra intelligence supremo and opposition Zapu leader Dumiso Dabengwa, with some describing him as a sellout.

Dabengwa died last week on Thursday in Nairobi, Kenya, while in transit to Zimbabwe from India where he had gone to seek treatment.

The Zanu PF politburo declared him a national hero, but his family rebuffed government overtures to take charge of the funeral proceedings to honour his dying wish to be buried at the family shrine in Ntabazinduna, Matabeleland North.

However, on Tuesday Zanu PF MPs refused to observe a minute of silence in honour of the late national hero, following a request by MDC chief whip Prosper Mutseyami.

Opposition and independent MPs stood up to observe the minute of silence, but Zanu PF legislators remained seated.

Zapu spokesperson Iphithule Maphosa said Zanu PF legislators’ conduct was consistent with an ideology that is premised on division, tribalism and hatred.

“They held a moment of silence for Oliver Mtukudzi (a musician) yet refuse to honour the man who made it possible for them to even occupy that place in the first place. They, however, did not surprise us because we know they are simply following their ideology that is premised on division, tribalism, corruption inequality and outright hatred,” Maphosa said.

“They hate DD for not being of their ethnic extraction.”

Habakkuk Trust chief executive Dumisani Nkomo said it’s an insult to the whole concept of heroism when the ruling party disregards the heroism of a man who personified heroism.
MDC spokesperson Jacob Mafume said Zanu PF MPs’ actions were petty and disastrous.

“That people can persecute a person in his death, (when) death has no party affiliation (is shocking). Being in Zanu PF is not a sign of purity or heroism,” Mafume said.

Former Bulilima East MP Norman Mpofu (MDC) said any person of average intelligence and some knowledge about history of the liberation struggle and post-independent Zimbabwe would honour Dabengwa.

“I mean everyone. (former President) Robert Mugabe will, let alone (President) Emmerson Mnangagwa. If they were still alive Josiah Tongogara, Joshua Nkomo, Vitalis Zvinavashe, I mean all liberation luminaries, would honour Dabengwa. The man gave his all to liberate this country. He even lost his mother who was shot and killed by the whites for being a mother of Dumiso,” Mpofu said.

“Who will not honour such a man? Who will not honour such a son of the soil? I will call such an MP a fool and victim of ignorance. Besides, Dumiso Dabengwa was a former Member of Parliament, a minister of a Zanu PF government, therefore, if they can’t acknowledge the towering role he played to liberate this country, they should respect the fact that he was once an MP like them more so of their party.

“If indeed they refused, their superiors must call them to order, otherwise they are embarrassing Zanu PF. They owe Dabengwa respect,” he added.

Church and Civic Society Forum national coordinator Abigail Mupambi said: “DD was declared a national hero because of his unquestionable contribution and commitment to national development both in the pre and post-independence era. The very same Zanu PF government saw it fit to declare him a hero, to then have some Zanu PF MPs deciding not to honour him is primitive on the very part of those MPs.

Rural Community Empowerment Trust Lupane coordinator Vumani Ndlovu said people are used to the whipping system in Parliament whereby the MPs follow the party position on certain issues and the MPs’ actions are proof that “Mnangagwa and his cabal are not sincere in conferring Dabengwa with a hero status”. Dabengwa will be buried in Ntabazinduna on Saturday and Zipra and Zapu have organised a mass memorial for him at White City Stadium in Bulawayo tomorrow.

Newsday

Arrested renowned award winning human rights defender Rita Nyamupinga failed to turn up for court yesterday after being hospitalised while her co-accused civil society member Sitabile Dewa was hauled before the courts and denied bail on charges of subverting a constitutionally-elected Government.

Stabile Dewa (34) works at Women’s Academy Leadership in Political Excellence (WALPE) while her co-accused Nyampinga (61) works for Communication Services and Allied Union Workers of Zimbabwe (CASWUZ).

Prosecutor Mr Charles Muchemwa applied for the placement of remand of Dewa and told the court that he intended to make a hospital remand for Nyampinga.

Dewa’s lawyer Mr Jeremiah Bhamu told the court that he was opposed to placement of remand of his client.

He also made complaints against the police whom he accused of denying his client access to her legal team.

“The position of the law is that access comes immediately upon the arrest of an accused person,” he said.

In response Mr Muchemwa told the court that he abide by the same reasons for the previous matter in his application for placement of Dewa on remand.

Mr Muchemwa said Dewa and Nyampinga will be co-joined with the other four who are already on remand on the same charges.

Harare magistrate Mr Hosea Mujaya remanded Dewa in custody to June 6.

The court heard that on 13 May, the accused who are members of various civic society organisations connived with their accomplices who are already on remand travelled to Maldives where they allegedly underwent a training workshop organised by a Serbian non-governmental organisation called Centre for Applied Non Violent Action and Strategies (CANVAS) with the intent to subvert a constitutionally elected government of the Republic of Zimbabwe.

It is alleged that during the workshop, the accused were trained on how to mobilise citizens to turn against the Government and to engage in acts of civil disobedience and/or resistance to any law during the anticipated national protest by anti-Government movements.

The court heard that the duo were also trained on how to operate small arms and to evade arrest during civil unrest. The State also alleges that they were taught basics of counter intelligence and acts of terrorism.

It is alleged that on May 27, 2019 the two were intercepted and arrested upon arrival at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport whilst coming back from Maldives.

State Media|Government last night expresssed concern at the subversive messages circulating on social media inciting people to disturb the prevailing peace and stability by engaging in illegal activities such as looting, burning down property and assaulting people going to work.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Ministry said while Government reaffirms the Constitutional right of citizens to demonstrate or petition peacefully as well as to have the freedom of conscience, that right does not extend to forcing others to partake in activities against their wishes as well as disrupting them from going about their business.

“Government has an obligation to protect all citizens including those who wish to carry on their daily activities undisturbed. We therefore wish to assure the public that the security services will be ready to fulfil their constitutional mandate to maintain law and order as well as protect lives and property, from insurgent behaviour,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

She said Zimbabwe is known for its peacefulness and Government is encouraging all citizens to maintain that peace as they fend for their families.

Minister Mutsvangwa said Government understands and emphathises with the hardships people are experiencing. She said safety nets are being put in place to protect the vulnerable from the pain “of the necessary reform we have to undergo”.

“The President and the Government are fully aware of the many challenges facing our economy. They arise from decades of gross mismanagement.

“We are going through the overhaul of our economy so it can finally deliver the goods and jobs we all desire. The ongoing pains are a passing phase.

“The Government warns any bad apples in our business community to desist from cruel price hikes. It is immoral to create shortages and gauge prices in order to create discontent among the populace,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

She said those who engage in industrial subversive activities will have themselves to blame when authorities react.

Minister Mutsvangwa said Zimbabwe does not believe riotous behaviour and wanton destruction of property will change people’s lives for the better, but that “a resilient determination to push through economic reforms is a necessary remedy to our economy and will see us achieve our national goal of being an Upper Middle Income Economy by 2030.”

Police have said they are ready to deal with anyone who engages in any form of violence following social media reports by some rogue elements calling for a so-called national shutdown.

They are threatening to punish people conducting their business or going to work, burn vehicles, destroy shops and stopping children from going to school, among other illegal activities.

The ZRP which is now on high alert to thwart any disturbances countrywide has since started conducting investigations on the source of this alarming message.

In a statement yesterday, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi warned anyone who engages in any form of violence that they will be arrested and face the full wrath of the law.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is urging members of the public to disregard a social media post which is calling for the public to engage in acts of violence by burning vehicles, destroying shops, stopping children from going to school and agitating for bloodshed on 30/05/19.

By Own Correspondent- Government has completed the registration of white former commercial farmers eligible for compensation for improvements on farms in line with the country’s laws.

The exercise ends today with an estimated 737 farmers having registered.

In a statement Wednesday, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development says payments to the former farmers will start soon after a verification exercise.

“The registration of former farm owners for the interim relief payment scheme to the distressed former farm owners has been completed, with 737 farmers having been registered for the payment,” reads the statement.

“The verification exercise of the registered farmers by Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water Climate and Rural Resettlement has begun and will be completed by 31 May 2019.

“Payments to the former farm owners will start immediately after the verification exercise and will be done through the Finance Department of the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Climate and Rural Resettlement.”

Government says significant progress has been made on the accelerated valuation exercise, which will be completed by tomorrow.

Concurrently, Government and the farmers’ representatives are now working together on the finalisation of the constitutional compensation commitment.

Government has agreed to pay an interim relief $55 000 for each farmer who lost land with improvements during the land reform programme undertaken at the turn of millennium when landless citizens sought to have a share of the resource.

Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) director Mr Ben Gilpin has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to pay the former farmers by end of this month to moderate their challenges.

A proper and comprehensive compensation package is expected after the initial relief payment.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- INTRATREK Zimbabwe, a local private firm fronted by Harare businessman Wicknell Chivayo, has filed a high court application seeking leave for the execution of judgment pending appeal on an order in which a High Court case ruling went in its favour following a contractual dispute with Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) relating to the Gwanda Solar project.

High Court Judge justice Tawanda Chitapi, who presided over the case in December last year, ruled at that time that the State Power Utility, ZPC, had by its actions frustrated the implementation of the contract with Intratrek for the construction of the 100 megawatts Gwanda solar farm project.

On Wednesday, Justice Chitapi reserved judgment in the case where Intratrek had sought the execution of his earlier order, but promised to give his position on the application within the earliest possible time given national interest at stake due to power shortages blighting the country.

This comes after Intratrek boss, following conclusion of his criminal prosecution, at the instigation of ZPC and in which he has been absolved of wrongdoing, attempted to remobilise on the Gwanda solar farm site.

However, ZPC insisted that the contractor had failed to perform in time in the first instance and that after his earlier successful contestation of its attempt to cancel the contract, the matter was the subject of an appeal at the High Court against Justice Chitapi’s judgement.

The parties had first gone to the courts following a dispute over validity of the contract between the parties when the power utility claimed Intratrek had failed to complete precommencement works within stipulated time, hence claimed the contractor violated their contract.

But Justice Chitapi ruled that ZPC had in fact breached terms of the contract and frustrated the project when it instigated the arrest of Intratrek managing director, Chivayo, on trumped up charges of fraud, which resulted in the doctrine of fictional performance coming into play.

In his earlier ruling, the high court judge found ZPC to have grossly abused its rights by involving a third part, the police, in the settling of a civil dispute when clear dispute resolution mechanism provided for in terms of the agreement signed between the contractual partners existed.

Justice Chitapi ruled that given the shortcomings of ZPC, which constrained the contractor from executing his duties, among them pressing malicious criminal charges against Mr Chivayo and failure by the State to provide certain guarantees, which stalled a Chinese loan to ZPC for the project, the contract was still valid and binding as was originally

In the fraud case, ZPC argued that it had paid Intratrek Zimbabwe US$5,1 million, without a bank guarantee, but the contractor had allegedly failed to deliver value, as agreed within the parties’ contract, in time.

When the matter was heard at the High Court, before Justice Chitapi, the High Court Judge ruled that ZPC was in fact to blame for Intratrek’s failure to perform the agreed works in time and ordered the parties to meet in 60 days to review progress on the project or that ZPC pays us$23 million.

ZPC has declined both and instead, has launched an appeal at the Supreme Court, insisting the High Court erred in its findings and ruling in favour of Intratrek because the contractor failed to deliver value as agreed and in time.

Intratrek legal counsel, Advocate Lewis Uriri, instructed by Wilson Manase of Manase and Manase Legal Practitioners, submitted that the appeal by ZPC against Justice Chitapi’s judgment, which was in favour of Intratrek, was unlikely to succeed given the robustness of their application, which no court of appeal would overturn, unless the order was grossly unreasonable that no court acting properly would issue it.

“It is beyond doubt that a declaratory order is not suspended by noting an appeal, when this is known, but one devices means  of undermining an order that ought to be obeyed through the medium of notice of an appeal, knowing or ought to know and by necessary implication do in fact know, that it does not suspend the order, that is a deliberate abuse of the process of the court and a clear stratagem to ensure spanners are thrown into the wheels of justice,” Advocate Uriri said in court.

“Leave to execute ought to be granted at the client to legal practitioner scale. The second point that I make is simply this, even relating to the ordinary grounds, for the grounds of leave to execute pending appeal, this is an application that ought to be granted,” he said.

Advocate Uriri said while possibility of success on appeal were non-existent, ZPC were acting in a manner consistent with attempts to scuttle the contract, whose validity the court upheld, as evidenced by actions of certain “state actors” whom he said were pushing the power utility to pursue all avenues to recover outstanding funds from Intratrek.

“When one looks at these grounds of appeal and the broader outlook, the national interest at stake, which the court itself related to and the preponderance of equities, which had been adequately dealt with in the affidavits, one is left with no doubt this appeal is no more than a time buying gimmick.

“This more so given that certain State actors have in recent times come out in the public domain to state that regardless of what the court has said, they are going to adopt a particular line. My learned colleague will say the court cannot relate that which appears in the press, let me draw your attention to the State of Hawaii (USA) and others versus Donald J Trump.”

In the case, Advocate Uriri stated, the US Supreme Court judge Justice Watson ruled it could not cower into a corner, pull the shutters closed and pretend it has not seen what it has.”

By Own Correspondent- Matabeleland South province is facing an acute shortage of teachers with reports indicating that some schools have only 3 teachers, taking all Grades, from ECD up to Grade 7.

In some cases, all the teachers would be untrained.

The dire situation was on Friday confirmed to the state media by Matabeleland South Provincial Education Director Mr Lifias Masukume.

Masukume said that the few teachers available were overwhelmed. The most affected schools are in Insiza and Gwanda rural.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- The US Embassy has issued a statement urging the the Zimbabwean government to uphold the rule of law.

Posting on Twitter, the embassy said:

“Harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders damages Zimbabwe’s reputation and economic future. We call on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution, respect rule of law, and foster an environment where all can contribute to the nation’s progress.”

Harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders damages Zimbabwe’s reputation and economic future. We call on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution, respect rule of law, and foster an environment where all can contribute to the nation’s progress.

— U.S. Embassy Zimbabwe (@USEmbZim) May 29, 2019

By Own Correspondent-The government has issued a warning against any demonstrations that will endanger peace in the country.

The warning follows messaging circulating on social media, calling for people to protest this Thursday against the economic hardships prevailing in the country.

Speaking to the national broadcaster, ZBCtv on Wednesday night, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Monica Mutsvangwa said:

The right does not extend to forcing others to partake in activities against their wishes as well as disrupting them from going about their business.

The government has an obligation to protect all citizens including those who wish to carry on their daily lives undisturbed.

We, therefore, wish to assure the public that the security services will be ready to fulfil their constitutional mandate to maintain law and order as well as protect lives and property from insurgent behaviour.

Mutsvangwa told the nation that the government is aware of the suffering of the citizens and blamed the past administration for gross mismanagement.

She added:

The government understands and empathises with the current hardships experienced by the people.

We are therefore putting in place safety nets to protect the vulnerable from the pain of the necessary reform we have to undergo.

The President and the Government are fully aware of the many challenges facing our economy. They arise from decades of gross mismanagement.

Mutsvangwa said that the current hardships are a passing phase and that the pain is a part and parcel of the ongoing efforts in transforming the economy

By Own Correspondent= Labour minister Sekai Nzenza has revealed that government would soon review pensioners’ allowances which had been eroded by inflation.

Responding to a question from MDC legislator for Mkoba Amos Chibaya who queried government policy regarding the welfare of pensioners whose monthly allowance was no longer sustainable due to the ever increasing prices of basic goods and services, Nzenza said:

“I understand that question and I promised that there was going to be a review of pensions and I will so discuss with my colleague the Minister of Finance looking at ways of increasing the pensions for the pensioners.  At the moment, I do agree that prices are on the increase and I know it is tough for the pensioners.  What I can inform you is that we are still reviewing and we are holding talks with the Minister of Finance on the issue of pensioners.

I am not in a position to give a particular date when the increases for the pensioners can be implemented.  I cannot state the date because I am not the custodian of the national fiscus but I hold meetings with my colleagues.  When we have consulted with the relevant Ministers.”

Pensioners are getting a paltry $80 monthly. However, most banks are failing to avail the money setting limits for them where they get between $20 to $50 a day.

By Own Correspondent- MDC legislator for Harare Central Murisi Zwizwai has pledged to donate his salary to enable parliament to employ interpreters as a way of ensuring that parliamentary proceedings are interpreted for ordinary citizens who do not understand other languages including English.

He said this Wednesday after asking his question directed at Labour minister Sekai Nzenza using vernacular language who could not correctly interpret the question asked in Shangani.

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda asked Zwizwai to rephrase and ask his question in English since the minister had failed to interpret it adding that the facility to translate vernacular would only be available at the new parliament which is currently under construction.

Said Zwizwai:

“It is with a heavy heart that I now ask the question in a foreign language which does not favour a lot of our people who are affected by the drought in our beloved country. Mr. Speaker Sir, I want to put on the table my salary as a Member of Parliament, if it helps in a way that this Parliament and the august House may employ interpreters to enable people to speak in these languages. I am prepared to have a stop order on my salary … “

Speaker, Jacob Mudenda responded and said:

“…. on the recognition and use of our national official languages, our gadgets at the moment do not have automatic translation so that if you spoke in Shangani or any other of those fifteen vernacular languages, there is no automatic explanation or translation. Until such time that we have, can we restrict ourselves to languages that are fairly understood by Honourable Members and Ministers; until we get to the new Parliament where that facility will be available.”

By Own Correspondent- Parliament has revealed that minister who fail to attend parliamentary proceedings and do not seek leave of absence will be charged for contempt of parliament.

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda said this Wednesday after it emerged that there were ministers and their deputies who were presenting themselves for other non parliamentary duties but deliberately absconding parliament sittings.

Independent legislator for Norton Temba Mliswa raised concern that ministers had presented themselves for a state banquet hosted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa Tuesday night for his Tanzanian counterpart President John Magufuli but had chosen not to attend parliament sittings despite that there were important issues which required their presence and responses.

Said Mliswa:

“Mr Speaker Sir, you did read the Ministers who are not here but I was alive to the fact that there was a State banquet last night and I also saw you there and I saw all the Ministers there.  I think that there are other pressing issues which need to be dealt with.  If the Minister is not present, at least the Deputy Minister must be there. 

I say this because, in terms of the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, the Ministry has a lot to do in terms of the economic turnaround of this country.  It has to contribute 14% plus to the GDP.  There is the Hwange forensic report which I asked the Leader of the House and he has not responded to it. 

There are also people dying in mines.  There is now a death in the Mazowe Mines and we need to ask the Minister in charge to say what is going on.  There was Eldorado Mine, there was the Cricket Mine and now there is Mazowe Mine where people are dying and we seem not to be getting the Ministers here. 

So I think that it is important that the Deputy Minister at least must be here because the Leader of Government Business at times is not conversant with some of these issues.  So we are actually prejudicing our people in terms of the representation that they deserve.”

Said Mudenda:

“…… I have asked the Clerks-at-the Table to list those Ministers who have not come without any leave of absence and we will charge them accordingly – it is contempt of Parliament.”

Mliswa’s concern followed an announcement notifying the August house that the ministers in the list below had applied for leave of absence:

Hon. Chitando – The Minister of Mines and Mining Development;

Hon. Kambamura – The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development;

Hon. Muswere – The Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services;

Hon. Simbanegavi – The Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation;

Hon. E. Moyo – The Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education;

Hon. S. Nyoni – The Minister of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development;

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon.  Kambamura

The Minister of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. S. G. Nyoni;

The Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Climate and Rural Resettlement, Hon. Haritatos;

The Minister of Home Affairs and cultural Heritage, Hon. Mathema;

The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon. M. Mutsvangwa;

The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Hon. Dr. Kanhutu-Nzenza;

The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Hon. M. Madiro;

The Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Hon. L. Mathuke; and

The Minister of State for Midlands Province, Hon. L. Mavima.

By Own Correspondent- The United States of America and Amnesty International have strongly condemned the arrest of civil society leaders and leaders of opposition political parties by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.

The denunciation comes after the arrest of civil society leaders, Stabile Dewah and Rita Nyamupinga and five others currently charged with attempting to overthrow the Zimbabwean government.

Police also arrested Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) lawmaker Joanna Mamombe on Wednesday and charged her with violating some sections of the Electoral Act.and opposition MP for treason.

The U.S Embassy in Harare posting on twitter said:

Harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders damages Zimbabwe’s reputation and economic future. We call on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution, respect rule of law, and foster an environment where all can contribute to the nation’s progress.

Concurrently, Muleya Mwananyanda, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Southern Africa has in a statement said:

The first five human rights defenders arrested are facing trumped up charges for exercising their human rights. They should be released immediately and unconditionally. The charges against them fit into a much wider pattern of repression we have documented in Zimbabwe.-VOA

Mwanamyanda added that the government has been heavily descending on human rights defenders and activists for exercising their right to freedom of expression and association.

The president of Tanzania, John Pompey Magufuli has pledged to assist Zimbabwe with grain.

Magufuli said that Tanzania had a surplus during the 2018/19 farming season and feels obliged to help Zimbabwe which is expecting famine due to drought and cyclone Idai.

President Magufuli said this in Swahili and president Mnangagwa was the interpreter.

By Own Correspondent- A ZAOGA church congregant reportedly broke the jaw of a church mate after a fist fight broke out whilst they were on their way from an all-night prayer meeting for cyclone Idai survivors.

The publication reports that on April 20, Dhliwayo and his family together with the complainant were part of a group of church members who were coming from a ZAOGA FIF all-night prayer meeting for Cyclone Idai survivors.

When the group reached Nyanyadzi business center, Dhliwayo’s siblings were playing throwing pebbles at each other and one of the stones hit Mlambo, who then confronted Dhliwayo’s younger sister.

She then fled and sought refuge behind Dhliwayo, advising him that Mlambo wanted to assault her. Dhliwayo is reported to have responded by holding Mlambo by the collar and started assaulting him with fists.

Mlambo fell down, bleeding from the nose and mouth before Dhliwayo left.
The complainant was then scurried to the hospital by some of the members where it was discovered that he had suffered a broken jaw and a swollen face.

A report was then lodged at the police, leading to Dhliwayo’s arrest.

Appearing before magistrate Joshua Nembaware, Dhilwayo was slapped with 24 months imprisonment and six were conditionally suspended. 

In mitigation, Dhliwayo asked for forgiveness and said he had repented from his actions. Dhliwayo told the court that he was only trying to chastise the complainant for his behavior.

” I just made a mistake. I committed the offense unknowingly. I was trying to discipline the complainant and he then he raised his voice. We are church mates,” Dhliwayo said. 

A medical report which revealed that Mlambo suffered serious injuries which could cause permanent disability was compiled and produced in court.

Zimnat Life Assurance has introduced a funeral plan, Gadziriro/Lungiselelo, that pays out up to US$6 000 for a family of six for less than five United States dollars a month.

For a premium of US$4,99 per month a husband, wife and four children are each covered for an amount of US$1 000 in the event of their death.

The policy is not restricted to a family of six, nor is the amount of cover limited to US$1 000 per person. Families of any size, including extended family members, can take out a Gadziriro/Lungiselelo funeral policy, with the premium varying according to the number of people to be covered and the value of the cover required. The policy can also be taken out by a single individual.

The minimum cover per person under the Gadziriro/Lungiselelo plan is US$500 whilst the maximum cover is US$5 000 and the cover can be extended to parents and other extended family members for an additional charge.

A major feature of Gadziriro/Lungiselelo is that payment is guaranteed in United States dollars, which means the value of the policy remains the same and unaffected by any fluctuations in the value of RTGS dollars.

The policy can be applied for online through Zimnat’s self-help web portal, selfcare.zimnat.co.zw on which customers can enjoy a 10% discount by signing up. Alternatively, customers can sign up at any Zimnat branch, or through Zimnat agents countrywide.

Premiums can be paid on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis with customers getting a discount if the premiums are paid for the whole year.

The plan has an option for vigil and tombstone cover, doesn’t have any waiting period in the event of accidental death and no medicals are required to sign up.

Farai Dziva|
David Coltart has dismissed claims that he has postulated that MDC A leader Nelson Chamisa will never revive the country’s economy.

Coltart described a report published by a state run daily newspaper as “disgusting lies.”

“This is utterly shameful, gutter, reporting…

The headline is a total distortion of what I said – in fact I said the complete opposite. In the interview I said that ZANU PF has no capacity to rectify the economy and that they have created such a mess that it will take hard work and time to undo their mess.

I would not have agreed to stand for TG of the MDC if I didn’t have absolute faith in
Nelson Chamisa to lead Zimbabwe to a new dawn,” said Coltart.

“One final point – the Chronicle continues to be in brazen and willful breach of Section 61(4) of the Constitution, which requires all State media publications to be impartial. The editor and journalist who wrote this headline -should be ashamed of such lies,” added Coltart.

Farai Dziva|Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti has described the RTGS Dollar as valueless and useless.

Speaking during a Question and Answer segment in Parliament, Biti described Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s policies as fictitious.

“My question is very simple Honourable Minister, why are you reluctant to adopt the multi-currency and do away with the RTGS dollar?

You also indicated that you would turnaround the country’s economy within six months of assuming office.

I understand you have not managed to achieve your objectives,” said Biti.

Ncube claimed Biti actually destroyed the country’s local currency.

“There is no way we can operate without our own currency.It is only a matter of time, you will begin to see the results very soon,” declared Ncube.

Farai Dziva|There was commotion in Parliament when MDC MP for Harare Central Murisi Zwizwai claimed Chegutu West MP Dexter Nduna has the habit of carrying condoms into the Parliament Building.

Nduna had earlier asked the Speaker of Parliament to advise MPs to dress appropriately in line with the code of conduct of the august house.

Nduna said :”Mr Speaker Sir can you please furnish us with information on how to dress appropriately as expected.

I have noticed that Honorable Zwizwai had a hat under his armpit and I don’t think it is proper.”

Zwizwai responded:”Honourable Nduna has the habit of carrying condoms into Parliament is that proper Mr Speaker Sir?”

Zwizwai later withdrew his statement after being asked to do so by the Speaker of Parliament.

Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-A) Party leader “Nero” Nelson Chamisa has expressed his disappointment at some ZANU-PF senior Parliamentarians who denied  to honour the late ZPRA intelligence Supremo Dr Dumiso Dabengwa who was declared a National Hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Sunday.

Posting on his twitter handle Chamisa said the refusal of some Members of Parliament including Tsitsi Gezi, to mourn Cde Dabengwa clearly indicates that there is chaos in the country.

“Some MP’s refusal to honour Cde Dumiso Dabengwa in parly yesterday sends signals of a country in turmoil. Zimbabwe is so deeply polarized by divisive & bitter partisanship. We hurt & hate each other so badly on account of politics leaving us with deep wounds. We must love,unite, heal and build!” said Chamisa.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is reportedly to have been also snubbed Cde Dabengwa, assigning Vice President Kembo Mohadi to stand in on behalf of him throughout the funeral and burial.

Chamisa through his treasurer David Coltart told Dabengwa family that he will be attending the burial and memorial services of the late hero.

Dr Dabengwa died last week on Thursday in Nairobi, Kenya on his way back to Zimbabwe from India where he had rushed for medical treatment. He will be buried at Ntabazinduna on Saturday.

Farai Dziva|
David Coltart has dismissed claims that he has postulated that MDC A leader Nelson Chamisa will never revive the country’s economy.

Coltart described a report published by a state run daily newspaper as “disgusting lies.”

“This is utterly shameful, gutter, reporting…

The headline is a total distortion of what I said – in fact I said the complete opposite. In the interview I said that ZANU PF has no capacity to rectify the economy and that they have created such a mess that it will take hard work and time to undo their mess.

I would not have agreed to stand for TG of the MDC if I didn’t have absolute faith in
Nelson Chamisa to lead Zimbabwe to a new dawn,” said Coltart.

“One final point – the Chronicle continues to be in brazen and willful breach of Section 61(4) of the Constitution, which requires all State media publications to be impartial. The editor and journalist who wrote this headline -should be ashamed of such lies,” added Coltart.

Farai Dziva|In a bid to please his handlers Zanu PF youth leader Pupurai Togarepi went out of his way and attacked MDC A leader Nelson Chamisa claiming that he the youthful leader is a mere job seeker.

Ironically Togarepi and Chamisa hail from Gutu South Constituency.

Addressing a Zanu PF rally in Harare, Togarepi said:” Who will buy MDC’ s cheap political tricks?

Some MDC MPs conceded that Zanu PF won the harmonized elections last year.

This young man- Chamisa is the one who is making a lot of noise because he is seeking employment,” claimed Togarepi.

Several Zimbabweans have described Togarepi’s remarks as “hogwash.”

Former MDC A MP Jeffryson Chitando said:” Togarepi is hallucinating and his remarks cannot go unchallenged.He is conscious of the fact that his party stole the people’s victory.”

Political analyst Batsiranai Ngugama said:” Togarepi is merely dramatizing the whole thing.Who is he fooling by pretending to be oblivious of the truth?”

Farai Dziva|Zanu PF youth leader Pupurai Togarepi has challenged the country’s main opposition party to produce evidence of election rigging.

Addressing party supporters in Harare, Togarepi described MDC A’s “claims that elections were rigged as cheap political grandstanding.”

“I challenged some MDC MPs to produce the evidence of election rigging and they could not say anything convincing,” claimed Togarepi.

He added:”Do you have the evidence to prove that Zanu PF rigged the elections?

We are fed up with your cheap propaganda.”

Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa was declared the winner by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and the Constitutional Court in controversial circumstances.

By Own Correspondent- Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, former head of the Presidential Guard finally handed over the post to Brigadier-General Fidelis Mhonda three months after he was moved.

However, Sangatwe is yet to be retired from the army despite the announcement in February.He has been appointed the Zimbabwean ambassador to Tanzania.

Sangatwe is among 16 new ambassadors deployed to various countries recently.

He is one of the four senior army commanders president Mnangagwa retired and deployed to the Foreign Affairs ministry in February.

Rumours have been circulating since then suggesting that there was a fallout between president Mnangagwa and vice president Chiwenga over the top commanders’ retirement.

Speaking during the hand over take over ceremony yesterday, Sanyatwe said:

I am very pleased this morning and I feel greatly humbled to stand before you officers, men and women of this formation to officially hand over the brigade to Brigadier-General Fidelis Mhonda; a brigade, Presidential Guard brigade, that is intact, formidable, highly trained and loyal to the Commander-in-Chief and our great nation as a whole as per all the standards expected of the guards.

Sanyatwe urged his successor to keep the troops busy to avoid mischief. He also advised the army not to be carried away by social media propaganda, disinformation and subversion.-Newsday

Farai Dziva|Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti has described the RTGS Dollar as valueless and useless.

Speaking during a Question and Answer segment in Parliament, Biti described Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s policies as fictitious.

“My question is very simple Honourable Minister, why are you reluctant to adopt the multi-currency and do away with the RTGS dollar?

You also indicated that you would turnaround the country’s economy within six months of assuming office.

I understand you have not managed to achieve your objectives,” said Biti.

Ncube claimed Biti actually destroyed the country’s local currency.

“There is no way we can operate without our own currency.It is only a matter of time, you will begin to see the results very soon,” declared Ncube.

By Mlondolozi Ndlovu| On the 23rd of May 2019, Zimbabwe lost one of its sons of contemporary revolutionary struggle against social, political as well as economic injustice since the early 60’s.

Coming from a ZAPU inclined family in which my father was a member of the ZPRA army, I developed interest in the mother party’s history and easily connected with the Black Russian.

Through the current ZAPU Deputy Treasurer Mjobisa Noko, I easily had access to a number of interviews with the intelligence supremo. This article is a narration of Dr Dabengwa’s personal experience in pre and post independent Zimbabwe. 

Born in 1939, Cde Dumiso Dabengwa was about 20 years old in 1960. 
By then, he had not seen any military training of which is the major focus of whatever has been dedicated to his history.

Cde Dabengwa revealed to me that on January 1, 1960, some nationalists, the likes of George Silundika, Enos Nkala, Morton Dizzy Malianga and others, formed the National Democratic Party. It was a successor of the previously banned SRANC in 1959 of which Joshua Nkomo had been president. 

Nkomo was in self-imposed exile when the NDP was formed in 1960. So, it was the first Congress of the NDP in 1960 which voted Nkomo as President in absentia. 

By then, he said, the nationalist movement had no military wing, camps neither a clear -ut strategy. Thus in 1960, Cde Dabengwa was not a soldier but a youth of the NDP.

The major difference between the NDP and its predecessor SRANC was a tendency towards sabotage activities of which Dumiso became one of the several youthful participants. 

It ought to be noted that confronting the settler colonial Rhodesian system had not been a joke. 

Thus, the major players of the NDP’s youthful sabotage activities were generally in their early 20s in 1960. 

They had a symbiotic relationship with the nationalists who somehow assumed a fatherly role in the general ideological thrust of the nationalist movement. 

Nkomo came back to Rhodesia to lead the NDP which was to be banned at the end of 1961.

It was that ban which resulted in the resuscitation of the NDP as the Zimbabwe African Peoples Union [ZAPU].

Meanwhile, the first Publicity Secretary of the NDP had been one Robert Mugabe who had taught in Ghana. It was generally sabotage that drew the attraction of the Rhodesian settler military as well as Intelligence system towards the activities of Cde Dumiso Dabengwa and his confederates. 
Cde Dumiso says he left the then Rhodesia in 1963 for Zambia, where the banned ZAPU was headquartered. 

As an independent country then, Zambia was close to a year old. 
In 1964, he and others left for military training in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics [USSR].

It is Cde Dumiso, Ambrose Muthinhiri, Robson Manyika and others that formed the core ZAPU group of trainees in the USSR in 1964. By then, the split of 1963 had taken place and ZANU was about a year old. 

Back in Zambia in about 1965, Cde Dumiso became part of ZAPU’s military as well as Intelligence structures. 

The struggle had not been about appointments by strategically trusted cadres thus some years later, cde Dabengwa was given the responsibility of heading ZAPU’s Intelligence Unit. 

The Rhodesians were well informed about such developments and became a predator to the freedom as well as survival of Cde Dumiso. 

As head of ZAPU Intelligence, Cde Dumiso saw the likes of Cde Alfred Mangena who was the commander of ZAPU’s military wing. In that way, he graduated from an NDP youth of 1960, to the guerrilla of the mid 60’s to the late 70’s. 

From then onwards, The Black Russian became an eyesore to the Rhodesian Intelligence as well as military system to the extent that his comrade with whom he had trained, Ethan Dube was abducted in Botswana in about 1973. 

The Rhodesians, under the political leadership of the Rhodesia Front [RF] led by Smith, were angry that an African Nationalist movement like ZAPU had gained a combat as well as Intelligence capability. Dumiso was always wanted by his foes. 

Many conferences on the independence of Rhodesia came and went by, but the Lancaster House Conference of 1979 was the last. 

Cde Dumiso arrived back in Southern Rhodesia, later Zimbabwe, between December 24 and 31, 1979 as part of the first ZPRA Commanders to land at Salisbury, later Harare.

At independence in April 1980, ZANU won the elections and Mugabe became prime minister. His first trusted lieutenants were Lt General Peter Walls, formerly of the Rhodesian Army and Intelligence Chief, Ken Flower. 

Both these men had no love for Cde DD, Mugabe included. At independence, the first of Mugabe’s Cabinet had among its members, Joshua Nkomo the President of ZAPU as its Home Affairs minister.

In 1982, some arms caches, allegedly belonging to PF ZAPU, were discovered. That was the genesis of what Mugabe termed “a moment of madness”. 

It was a decisive clampdown of PF ZAPU, its military, as well as political personnel, resulting in the incarceration of Dumiso after Zimbabwe had become a sovereign state by contemporary standards. 

Cde Dumiso was released in about late, 1986 at the time that the PF ZAPU and ZANU PF unity talks were underway. 

It was regrettable that his long-time colleague and comrade, Lookout Masuku died in state custody in about 1986. 

In his own words, Dumiso said, “I was bitter after my release as a result of the treatment received under the ZANU PF government. It was Nkomo, the old man Josh who persuaded me to join the ZANU PF government under the unity umbrella.”

Thus, Dabengwa became, for some years, the Home Affairs Minister. On departure from government, he announced the revival of ZAPU and the topic became very contentious. 

After the formation of the MDC in about 2000, he seemed to have found some pro –Democratic allies. 

At his death he had been continuously agitating for a democratically free and independent Zimbabwe, and he endorsed MDC Alliance president Nelson Chamisa as the presidential candidate for the 2018 elections. 

When I last spoke to him at his Harare home, he urged young people to commit themselves to fighting the current economic and political wars, saying supporting the status quo is not an option for young people. 

Fare well Cde Dabengwa. Hamba kuhle qhawe lamaqhawe. Sizahlala sikukhumbula.

May his soul rest in peace. 

Mlondolozi Ndlovu is a journalist by profession. He writes in his own capacity.

By Own Correspondent- Harare West MDC legislator Joanna Mamombe has been granted a $100 bail by a Harare magistrate.

Mamombe, who is facing charges of violating the electoral act in 2018 is also being accused of providing a false address to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission before elections last July.

MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume confirmed the development to this publication.

Mamombe, who is also currently on bail after the state accused her of planning to topple President Emmerson Mnangagwa in January following the announcement of fuel price increases which triggered national protests.

The Zimbabwean parliament’s youngest female legislator is accused of treason after she held a press conference where she allegedly incited the masses to engage in the national violence which ensured on January 14 2019 where an unconfirmed number of citizens were shot and killed by state security agents.

Farai Dziva|A Harare motorist was reportedly bashed by Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bodyguards after blocking the Zanu PF leader’s motorcade.

The incident happened in central Harare.

Eye witnesses said: “A Mshika-shika driver was bashed after failing to stop in time in order to give the presidential motorcade leeway.

One of the police officers disembarked from his motorcycle and severely bashed the driver.He was also assaulted by another bodyguard.”

Farai Dziva|There was commotion in Parliament when MDC MP for Harare Central Murisi Zwizwai claimed Chegutu West MP Dexter Nduna has the habit of carrying condoms into the Parliament Building.

Nduna had earlier asked the Speaker of Parliament to advise MPs to dress appropriately in line with the code of conduct of the august house.

Nduna said :”Mr Speaker Sir can you please furnish us with information on how to dress appropriately as expected.

I have noticed that Honorable Zwizwai had a hat under his armpit and I don’t think it is proper.”

Zwizwai responded:”Honourable Nduna has the habit of carrying condoms into Parliament is that proper Mr Speaker Sir?”

Zwizwai later withdrew his statement after being asked to do so by the Speaker of Parliament.

Farai Dziva|Opposition MPs today grilled Social Welfare Minister Sekesai Nzenza over politicization of food aid in rural constituencies.

Nzenza dismissed reports of politicization of food aid in the rural areas.

“As far as I am concerned, food aid is being distributed evenly.Do you have the evidence to prove that food is being distributed on partisan basis? If you have the proof please submit the information in writing,” said Nzenza.

Her remarks triggered protests from opposition MPs who accused her of deliberately misrepresenting facts.

“You are deliberately misleading us and I think that is uncalled for- we expect you to be objective,” said Harare Central MP Murisi Zwizwai.

Comedienne Madam Boss who narrowly escaped an early night attack on Monday by suspected hitmen at her Sunridge home is traumatised.

So dire is her situation that she needs counselling and protection from the law as the incident still haunts her.

Madam Boss is now convinced she has become a target of many, including rivals in the game who have been on her neck.

In an interview at her offices, Madam Boss said she is lucky to be alive but reckons her life was under threat.

A complaint was lodged at Mabelreign Police Station.

“I’m still traumatised after last night (Monday)’s drama at my house on my way from town,” she said.

“It all happened in a flash and I don’t know how I survived along with my friends Meme (Mercy Gumbo) and Tsitsi Kachembere who were in the car.

“I was being chauffeured by Mercy Gumbo who happens to be a co-tenant at a complex we are renting.

“Mercy was about to drop me at home after our business meeting around 8pm when the assailants pounced on us.

“What really traaumatised me is that it all happened when I was about to open our gate.”

Madam Boss, who insists she was saved by the Lord, suspects she was the target and the suspected hitmen attacked the rear windscreen targeting where she was seated.

“As I was opening the gate, I had a blast from our parked car, which attracted the attention of neigbours.

“Initially, Mercy and Tsitsi remained quiet maybe in shock but when the rear screen was attacked for the third time, they yelled and the assailants sped off.

“When Mhofela (Madam Boss’s husband) arrived, the assailants had sped off in a black car.

“We lodged a complaint at Mabelreign Police Station but we were told investigation officers had already left and they will only attend to us on Tuesday (yesterday) since it was not an accident,” she said.

Madam Boss, whose cellphone was inundated with calls for the greater part of yesterday, said she was leaving room for investigation.

“As we speak, investigations are currently underway but I take it as a foiled robbery.

“My only fear is my five year-old old daughter who was inside the house with the maid when the incident happened.

“I’m also worried that my friend Mercy’s car was damaged and she had to leave it at my place,” she said.

-State Media

Outspoken comedienne Mai Titi says her social media war with Madam Boss is now a game of “elimination”.

Mai Titi says she would only stop it once she wins it.

She made the declaration in the wake of the new ‘cold war’ with her rival who narrowly escaped an early night attack on Monday at her house in Sunridge.

“It’s now longer about social media wars but a game of elimination,” said Mai Titi in an interview with H-Metro.

Mai Titi laughed at claims that that she could be the one who masterminded the foiled attack on Monday night.

“One thing you should know is that Tyra Chikocho is a liar and she is actually the one stalking me using ghost accounts on social media.

“Tyra wants to appear as a good person when in actual fact she is the one pestering me on social media.

“For instance, she is now faking an attack to get people’s sympathy,” she said.

Asked why she visited Madam Boss’ residence early Monday before the attempted attack later in the evening, Mai Titi said:

“We stay in the same neighbourhood and I decided to visit her so that we could talk face to face as women and not comedians.

“I had actually sent her a message that I was coming but when I arrived, they told me she had gone to china and I left.

“As for the attack, she faked it and I know that for sure; if I wanted to fight her, I could have done it in person.”

Mai Titi said her followers were also fearing for her life as a result of Madam Boss’ alleged stunts.

“I have been receiving calls as early as 3am with fans asking for my security.

“Some were willing to fight in my corner while others were ready to buy me an air ticket to fly out of Zimbabwe if there was a life-threatening problem.”

Mai Titi urged Madam Boss to be humble and lead a life that she deserves.

“As you know, Madam Boss is a school drop-out and both of us are renting.

“We can’t say we (Madam Boss and Mai Titi) have made it in life but we are simply managing to pay our bills to survive.

“Tyra is a liar and she must learn to be humble and stop stalking me with ghost sounds.

“Tyra ndiye anondidenha ndakanyarara zvangu but when I respond, its fireworks,” she added.

-State Media

Own Correspondent| A Zimbabwean political activist based in the United Kingdom is battling to have renewal of her asylum with fears that if she is deported authorities in the Zimbabwe will persecute her.

59 year old Molly Ngavaimbe says she left the country in 2000 after heightened persecutions of opposition political activists.

“I left Zimbabwe in 2000 after the political situation deteriorated. I am a member of the MDC branch in London and have participated in various demonstrations organised by the party here” Ngavaimbe said

Knowing well how opposition political activists have been treated by the Zanu PF led Government he fears for her life once she steps in the country.
“My fear is that because of my participation in demonstrations as well as being a member of the opposition I will be tormented by state security agents and Zanu PF members” she said

Molly claimed her asylum in April 2008 and now she has applied for renewal with fears that it may be turned down owing to the ‘new administration’ that purports to be open.

A clamp down against opposition and civic society organisation activist is currently underway and recently seven activists have been arrested on allegations of trying to overthrow the government.

According to lawyers, police said the activists had attended a workshop in the Maldives run by a group that trained people “how to mobilise citizens to turn against the government and to engage in acts of civil disobedience”

The arrests came just a few days after the state-owned newspaper, the Herald claimed that Zimbabwean organisations with links to the opposition Movement for Democratic Change-Alliance had in recent months been hard at work laying the groundwork for civil unrest set to be unleashed next month.

Jane Mlambo| The United States government has warned President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government against harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders saying it damages the country’s reputation and economic future.

Posting on Twitter, US Embassy in Harare called on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution and respect rule of law to ensure every citizen can contribute to the nation’s progress.

“Harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders damages Zimbabwe’s reputation and economic future. We call on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution, respect rule of law, and foster an environment where all can contribute to the nation’s progress.”

Harassment and targeted arrests of civil society leaders damages Zimbabwe’s reputation and economic future. We call on the Zimbabwean government to uphold its constitution, respect rule of law, and foster an environment where all can contribute to the nation’s progress.

— U.S. Embassy Zimbabwe (@USEmbZim) May 29, 2019

Today, civil society groups under the banner of Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum also urged government to stop criminalising the work of civil society saying it is affecting their activities which are aimed at serving the community.

Jane Mlambo| Civil society organisations under the banner of Human Rights NGO Forum have warned the government against criminalising the work of civil society and human rights defenders amid reports that civic leaders across the country have reported an increase in surveillance, office visits and interruption of their meetings by the state.

According to NGO Forum chairperson Jestina Mukoko, surveillance by the state on civil society organisations has affected their ability to implement their programmes which are meant to address challenges affecting communities.

“Civil society organisations are simply people organising themselves to find solutions to problems affecting their communities, they are not enemies but partners for development,” said Mukoko.

She further urged government to refrain from attacking the dignity of human rights defenders and violating their privacy.

“Stop the crackdown on civil society and human rights defenders,” added Mukoko.

Jane Mlambo| Former head of the Presidential Guard, Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe and Brigadier General Douglas Nyikayaramba who are believed to be close allies of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga have been deployed as Ambassadors in countries closer to Zimbabwe.

Yesterday, government announced the deployment of Ambassadors to various countries but it is the retired military men’s deployment which raises more questions than answers.

Sanyatwe, now a Lieutenant-General, is set to take up his new role as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Tanzania while Nyikayaramba will be in Mozambique.

In February this year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa retired four senior army commanders, among them Sanyatwe, and deployed them to the Foreign Affairs ministry.

However, circumstances surrounding the redeployment were a subject of speculation following allegations of a fall-out between Mnangagwa and Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga over the top commanders’ retirement.

Sanyatwe yesterday thanked his troops for standing with him and for being a disciplined force.

“I am very pleased this morning and I feel greatly humbled to stand before you officers, men and women of this formation to officially hand over the brigade to Brigadier-General Fidelis Mhonda; a brigade, Presidential Guard brigade, that is intact, formidable, highly trained and loyal to the Commander-in-Chief and our great nation as a whole as per all the standards expected of the guards,” he said.

-Newsday

HON. T. MLISWA: On a point of order!  Thank you very much Madam Speaker.  You will recall that when the Hon. Speaker Jacob Mudenda was in your Chair, the issue of a minute of silence to observe the late Dumiso Dabengwa was brought up. The Speaker ruled that it cannot be so until the family speaks and that the Government too must issue a statement.  However, those two issues have been done.  Madam Speaker, I say so because my father was ZAPU, he was in Zambia, we grew up with him, S. K. Moyo and Mutinhiri.  This is a serious issue which deserves that, not only was he a war veteran but he was a Member of this House too.  He was a Member of this House of Assembly and all of us will die one day.  It is only important that when one of us dies, even if you do not recognise his hero status but let us recognise that one of our Parliamentarians is no more.

There is a rift, the failure for this Parliament to comply to what it says, will create problems which are unforeseen.  The aspect of the tribal card will be raised and we do not want that.  Therefore, Madam Speaker, with your indulgence; seek for a minute of silence to be observed because the two issues, the Speaker spoke about have been met.  We are putting the President in a very difficult situation.  He was a Member of this House and why can we not give him the respect that he deserves –[HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.]

THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAEKR: Order, Hon. Members.  I think we must all know, as from today that we do not observe a minute of silence on National Heroes if they are not Members of Parliament – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible Interjections.] –

HON. T. MLISWA: So, Madam Speaker, if your ruling is that we do not observe that, how come the Speaker did not highlight on that on that day.  The Hon. Jacob Mudenda did not say that we cannot observe.  We have got to be consistent as a Parliament. Hon. Mudenda did not say that.  Why do you hate ZAPU people? We have to be consistent as Parliament.  VaMudenda havana kuti hati observi, vakati mhuri neGovernment.  Ndozvakataurwaka.  Ko imimi vanhu veZIPRA indaa muchivenga vamwe vanhu zvakadaro – [HON. MEMBERS:  Inaudible interjections.] – Madam Speaker, the Speaker did not say that– [HON. MEMBERS:  Inaudible interjections.] –

THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER:  Order, Hon. Mliswa can you approach the Chair.

Hon. T. Mliswa approached the Chair.

HON. T. MLISWA:  Madam Speaker, with your wise counsel together with the Clerk that I just received, I do hear what you said that the Speaker did not say it but if that is the rule of Parliament, I am bound by the rules of Parliament.  Thank you.

Zimbabwe Mail|WARSHIP Dumba, leader of a disgruntled group of former MDC activists fiercely opposed to current leader Nelson Chamisa’s leadership, has urged ex-MDC secretary general Douglas Mwonzora to call for a party extra-ordinary congress which will choose leaders of the main opposition as directed by the High Court recently.

In her ruling, Justice Edith Mushore declared as invalid, Chamisa’s leadership of MDC, his initial appointment 2016 by then party president Morgan Tsvangirai (now late) as co-vice president and decisions Chamisa went on to make in his capacity as party leader.

Purportedly speaking on behalf of the Thokozani Khupe led MDC, Dumba, who fronts the group that calls itself In Defence of Morgan Tsvangirai Legacy (DMTL), said the party has set 27 July as the date for the extra-ordinary congress ordered by the High Court.

“Chamisa is corrupt, violent and his lawless cabal and we congratulate them for forming their new party,” Dumba said while referring to the just ended MDC congress that reinstalled the 41-year-old politician as substantive party leader.

In her recent ruling, Justice Mushore ordered MDC to revert back to its 2014 structures and call for an extra-ordinary congress as per party constitution to properly choose Tsvangirai’s replacement, among other positions.

This was after a Gokwe based MDC activist went to court to challenge the manner in which Chamisa rose to the helm of the MDC on the news of then Tsvangirai’s death February last year.

Chamisa has since filed an appeal against the ruling and went on to proceed with his elective congress which installed him as party leader.

Dumba poured scorn on the MDC congress saying they now expected their secretary general Douglas Mwonzora to start activating processes that will lead to the extra-ordinary congress as ordered by the courts.

“The 2014 MDC-T structures met 23rd May and agreed on a provisional date and that we should go back and mobilise our supporters about the extra ordinary congress,” said Dumba.

“We are following the High Court ruling early this month and we will not be stopped by any illegal activity that followed thereafter such as the Nelson Chamisa led meeting he had in Gweru over the weekend.

“We are still deliberating on the venue.”

Dumba said Mwonzora, the party secretary general elected 2014, was obliged to follow the court ruling.

“Mwonzora is a respected lawyer and our secretary general and we expect him to start the process,” Dumba said of a party politician who lost his bid to be re-elected secretary general of the Chamisa led MDC.

“The fact that he attended a gathering in Gweru, it was a gathering of MDC-Alliance, which contested in last year’s general elections, and probably they had something to discuss there.

“No amount of arrogance from those who have chosen dictatorship will stop us from doing what is right.

“Letting Chamisa and his cabal get away with it would prove to be a very bad precedence in future for our beautiful country.”

– Zimbabwe Mail

IOL|“This municipal bin is our soup kitchen”

Seven Zimbabwean teenagers have been living under a big tree near Shoprite in Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, for almost a year, scavenging for food from a nearby skip.

The boys, aged 15 to 19, sleep under the tree on one torn mattress, sharing two blankets. They wake up at 6am and pack their blankets and clothes into a big white bag and hang it in the tree for safety. When it rains they move to the verandah of the nearby shops at night.

During the day they go out looking for work and food, begging from passers-by or picking up leftover food thrown into the municipal skip nearby. They have no plates or pots and do not cook.

They bath once or twice a week at a nearby stream and use the public toilets nearby.

“This place is convenient for us because toilets are near, the big municipal bin where people throw away leftover food is here, and a lot of people pass through this place. Some of them donate clothes or food,” says 19-year-old Classmore Tsiga.

“This is our home but we also wish to be under a roof one day.”

Putting a brave face on it, Tsiga said, “This municipal bin is our soup kitchen. No one has fallen sick from eating leftover food from the bin. God is great.”

Explaining how he came to Louis Trichardt from Rusape in Zimbabwe, Tsiga said: “Life was very difficult at home. My unemployed parents could not afford school fees so I dropped out in grade five.”

“My sister who left for Johannesburg in 2018 advised me to follow her. In Beitbridge I was mugged. They got away with R200 meant for transport from Beitbridge to Johannesburg. My sister, who is doing odd jobs, could no longer afford the transport cost,” he said.

He did odd jobs in Beitbridge and managed to save money to get as far as Louis Trichardt. “My aim was to join my sister but it is taking time. I do not regularly get hired for work.”

Tsiga says he is good at baking. “I wish there was someone who could hire me for baking because it’s my passion. I used to do it back home,” he says.

Tapiwa Sibanda, 15, from Mwenezi says both his parents died when he was very young and he was sent to look after his grandfather’s cattle. He dropped out of school at the age of 9.

“My aim is to raise money for school fees then I can go back to school, but it seems impossible,” says Sibanda.

John Tambire,17, from Masvingo decided to come to South Africa so as not to be a burden on his grandmother after his mother remarried. He saved R200 from odd jobs in Zimbabwe which he used for transport to Louis Trichardt.

“I was among the eight grandchildren under the care of this grandmother. I thought it wise to fend for myself,” says Tambire.

He hopes one day to be able to help his grandmother look after the other children.

This article first appeared on Groundup.

Own Correspondent|Social media is this morning abuzz with a message doing rounds calling on the citizens to engage on a National Shut Down this Thursday.

The message whose origin is not yet known is attracting massive attention from social media users who appear to be taking serious hid to the call.

Prices of most commodities including petrol nearly doubled on Wednesday prompting a massive out cry from the citizens.

Bread shot up from a average of $3.20 to a whopping $6.00 in some shops according to ZimEye.com readers. Fuel is selling for as high as $7.69 for petrol and $7.30 diesel at some filling stations where it is available.

In the black market where it is flooded, petrol is selling for up to $100 for five litres.

Below is the social media message that is getting a lot of attention from citizens:

NATIONAL. SHUTDOWN.

Thursday 30 May 2019

Fellow Zimbabweans and comrades, it is evident that our nation is in a sorry state and ED and his government are feasting on our misery.

Prices for basic commodities have sky rocketed beyond the reach of many of us.

Its so sad seeing fathers and mothers queing for Zupco for hours hoping it will arrive.

Its so sad our parents took care of us but now even though we want to we cant return the favour.

Fuel $8 per litre

With this pace do you think you are going to live any inheritance for your children.

We have tried the patience route it has not worked.

The peace route will never work

Now we are a laughing stock as Zimbabweans are being labelled educated fools, people that cant stand for themselves, men that are afraid to fight for the future of their children.

We are saying enough is enough. On Thursday 30 May 2019, We are shutting down this nation.
-STAY AT HOME AND INDOORS THIS IS A WARNING
-NO ONE SHOULD BE SEEN GOING TO WORK YOU WILL BE PUNISHED SEVERELY AS WE WILL CONSIDER YOU AN ENEMY OF THE STRUGGLE.
-IF WE SEE YOU DRIVING FOR WHATSOEVER REASON WE WILL STONE YOUR VEHICLE
-SHOP OWNERS BE WARNED DO NOT OPEN WE WILL BURN YOUR SHOPS…
-DO NOT LET YOUR CHILDREN GO TO SCHOOL
-THIS TIME WE ARE NOT AFRAID OF THE ARMY WE ARE READY FOR THEM
-BLOOD WILL BE SHED ON THURSDAY

STAY AWAY ON THURSDAY

MNANGAGWA AND HIS GOVERNMENT MUST GO!!!!

LETS FOWARD THIS AND WARN OUR FAMILIES AND LOVED ONES

Aluta Continua

Farai Dziva|Harare West MP Joana Mamombe has been arrested again.

According to seasoned journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, Mamombe is detained at Harare Central Police Station.

The reason for the arrest is still unclear.However Mamombe was arrested earlier this year on trumped up charges of inciting violence.

“Harare West MP Joana Mamombe arrested and detained at Harare Central Police. The MDC should not be tempted to react with any action except legal. This failing government wants exactly that. These arrests of opposition and civil society are further exposing government fo what it is,” tweeted Chin’ono.

Own Correspondent|ZimEye.com readers have indicated that bread in some parts of the country this morning shot up to $5.60.

Below is picture evidence of the new bread price provided by the sources:

This is a developing story and ZimEye.com is inviting more readers who have encountered this increase to send through details including pictures of till slips showing the new price.

Own Correspondent|Zapu spokesperson Iphithile Maphosa has emotionally called on mourners who will attend National Hero and liberation war stalwart Dumiso Dabengwa’s Memorial Service and burial to only wear ZAPU regalia.

Speaking in a interview Maphosa said in honour of Dabengwa, only Zapu regalia should be worn at his funeral wake and burial.

“We anticipate to lay our greatest hero to rest on Saturday, June 1 at Manxeleni in Ntabazinduna, about 30 kilometres from Bulawayo. We welcome everyone’s continued support as we all celebrate the life of the finest citizen to ever come out of southern Africa, a friend to all and a father to the orphaned,” he said.

“We, however, would like to advise our friends who will be coming to mourn with us to respect Cde DD and everything that he stood for. President Dabengwa was Zapu in blood, thought and in deeds. Throughout his life he was a principled cadre of the Zapu ideology and teachings. In as much as we welcome all Zimbabweans at the celebration of our father, we will appreciate it if only Zapu regalia be conspicuous at his funeral and burial.”

Maphosa’s sentiments come amid revelations that firebrand MDC President Nelson Chamisa will attend the two high profile events and as is norm, thousands of his MDC followers will accompany him to the events and definitely dressed in MDC regalia.

Chamisa was incidentally publicly endorsed by Dabengwa as the future leader of the country in an MDC rally in Bulawayo just a few days before the highly contested elections in July last year.

MDC supporters known for who their are about their President and the party are expected to have their red regalia completely overshadow the yellow ZAPU regalia which Maphosa is inviting to dominate the gatherings.

NATIONAL hero Dr Dumiso Dabengwa’s family and the Dumiso Dabengwa Foundation (DDF) have opened a condolence messages book in honour of the liberation icon which members of the public will sign.

MDC Treasurer General David Coltart, Bulawayo Mayor Councillor Solomon Mguni Zanu-PF spokesperson Simon Khaya-Moyo, Bulawayo Minister of State Judith Ncube and several other high ranking public figures already signed the book at Dr Dabengwa’s residence in Fourwinds suburb, Bulawayo, yesterday.

Dr Dabengwa died on Thursday in Kenya, Nairobi while on his way to Zimbabwe from India where he had been taken for medical treatment. He died aged 79 following a liver-related ailment that started last year in November.

DDF director and legacy manager Mthulisi Hanana said the book will be available for the public in five cities worldwide today.

“The family working with the DDF have launched a Dr Dumiso Dabengwa condolence messages book. The book will be availed to the public to record the memories they had with Dr Dabengwa. One of the books will be here in his house (Fourwinds suburb) where mourners are gathered while another will be placed somewhere near Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Statue in the city centre. Another will be placed in Harare, another in Gauteng Province, South Africa, another in London, Britain, and the last one will be in New York, America,” said Mr Hanana.

He said specific information of where the books will be placed for public signing in areas outside Bulawayo will be availed on the DDF website and their Twitter handle @DDabengwaFdn.

Condolence messages continued to pour in yesterday with several eminent people visiting the family’s residence.

Speaking at the family home on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has snubbed Dabengwa’s burial, ZANU PF spokesperson Khaya Moyo said Dabengwa was the greatest revolutionary for Zimbabwe.

“He was one of the greatest revolutionaries, very principled, very focused, a man of purpose, a man of destiny. He never had time for gossip; neither did he believe in any existence of a tribe and region or race. To him humanity was supreme. He was a man who was very humble but very deep in thinking. A mentor to many revolutionaries and freedom fighters. If it wasn’t for the role he played during the liberation struggle as our intelligence supremo we would have gone into a number of disasters because of the viciousness of the enemy,” said Khaya-Moyo.

He also paid tribute to his family, particularly his wife Mrs Zodwa Dabengwa for remaining strong even during the sad departure of her husband.

“I must say I salute his wife Zodwa, she is very strong, because when he passed on she was virtually alone in a foreign land and I’ve just seen her now at home and I can tell that his attributes, the late Dumiso Dabengwa’s attributes also filtered into her because she is very very strong. The entire family is also showing signs of bravery because there are not many who can stand such a storm,” he said.

“It is a storm because we can never have a man of his calibre in terms of service to humanity who never at any stage hated other people, he was hated himself by other people but he never retaliated.”

Also, at the family residence was Bulawayo Mayor Councillor Solomon Mguni who revealed that in honour of Dr Dabengwa the council has shifted the city’s 125th anniversary celebrations which were set for Saturday, June 1 to Monday, June 4.

“As the City of Bulawayo we also mourn with the Dabengwa family following the death of the liberation icon. We also remember him for the contributions he made for the development of Bulawayo, particularly the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project. We hoped the project would be completed in his lifetime but since he is gone we hope it will be completed in our lifetime,” said Clr Mguni.

He said Dr Dabengwa’s family, his foundation and party Zapu among members of the public should find ways of immortalising Dr Dabengwa’s works and the council will support their initiatives.

Clr Mguni said council cannot impose a way of honouring Dr Dabengwa, but will consider proposals made by the residents.

By A Correspondent| The owner of a phonenumber seen in a circulating WhatsApp message that says soldiers have mounted guard in Harare, has disowned the rumour.

Speaking to ZimEye Wednesday morning, the man who would not comment further, said he did not at all send out the report.

He hung his phone up soon after dismissing the report.

He was speaking to ZimEye via a direct phone call, not the usual WhatsApp call platform which most Zimbabweans feel safe communicating on.
He told ZimEye, “Haa, ndezvekunyepa – haa, it is all lies,” he said.

He was asked to comment on how it is that his number was used and to this he replied saying, “Vanga vachiforwadhirana forwadhirana, but hapana apa – they were just forwarding each other but nothing like that is happening,” he added.

The unedited WhatsApp message reads in full:

“[28/05, 20:20] [*NUMBER REDACTED]: Maswera sei Hama mangwana zvogona kuipa nezvenyika!!kubva Makoni ndakwira 4 kuuya manyme park machipisa 8 apaa Makoni mapurisa adirwa hobho mumaside mefance makachera makomba anokwana Munhu akabata pfuti zvenguva yehondo zviya ndazoona ndadzika kombi pa st Mary turn of pakazaraa masoja nepuma vamwe vakafararira soo beware for tumoro Hama??

[28/05, 20:20] [05/28, 15:55] +263 71 [*NUMBER REDACTED]: Military at Presidential guard Dz camp roadblock pane zvirikuitika amheno chii??
[05/28, 15:55] +263 71 883 9637 [*NUMBER REDACTED]: Yaaa guys gwarirai military state kuMufakose mugomo rekuna Dekkar ku Zfc kwaiswa tent yeMasoja.”

ZimEye was at pains to obtain a comment from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and none had been availed at the time of writing.

Meanwhile, the rumour was somewhat made strong by claims by Former Deputy Minister of Finance Terence Mukupe who last week posted a video of two former soldiers who performed the November 2017 coup, saying people who want to remove Emmerson Mnangagwa from power are daydreaming.

On Friday Mukupe claimed the operation would be futile.

“You can’t employ the same strategy twice. Good luck to you daydreamers. We will respond in kind,” Mukupe tweeted referring to the 2017 coup that saw Emmerson Mnangagwa assuming power.

Own Correspondent|Opposition MDC leader Nelson Chamisa will this weekend attend both the massive memorial service and burial of the late ZAPU leader and liberation war stalwart Dumiso Dabengwa.

MDC Treasurer General David Coltart told mourners at the Dabengwa home in Fourwinds, Bulawayo, that the newly endorsed opposition leader will attend the two events in recognition of the huge contribution Dabengwa made to the liberation of the country and fight for democracy after independence.

Thousands of people are expected to flood White City Stadium on Friday for a memorial service that will start at 9am and expected to end at 4pm. Dabengwa who was declared a National Hero, will then be buried at his rural home in Ntabazinduna on Saturday.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has confirmed that he will not be taking part in any of the activities around Dabengwa assigning Vice President Kembo Mohadi to stand for him throughout the mourning and burial.

Mnangagwa would definitely have got himself hugely embarrassed by the people of Matabeleland who will dominate the proceedings. The Matabeleland region accuses Mnangagwa of joining hands with former President Robert Mugabe to torment Dabengwa by unlawfully imprisoning him for five years after the courts had cleared him of treason charges.

Meanwhile, the City of Bulawayo has postponed its 125th years celebrations that were set for this weekend to allow for the memorial service and burial of Dabengwa.

The mayor of Bulawayo announced that Bulawayo’s 125th celebrations which were scheduled for Saturday have been moved to June 4 to pave way for the burial of the national hero at his rural home in Ntabazinduna on Saturday. He said this was due to a request from Zapu activists who indicated they would also want to be part of the celebrations.

The Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (Zipra) Veterans Association and Zapu have called on all war veterans, who worked with the late national hero Dumiso Dabengwa (DD), to join a mass memorial slated for Friday at White City Stadium in Bulawayo.

The late former Home Affairs minister died in Nairobi, Kenya while in transit from India. His remains arrived in Bulawayo on Monday.

Dabengwa will be buried at the family shrine in Ntabazinduna, Matebeleland North province as per his wish.

Zipra Veterans Association spokesperson Buster Magwizi yesterday called on all war veterans and citizens in general to give the late hero a befitting send-off.

“From all corners of Zimbabwe, we are saddened by the passing on of Dabengwa. We appeal to all Zipra and Zanla comrades who worked with Dabengwa, who feel that they want to join us in remembering the commander, general, supremo Dumiso Dabengwa to come in your numbers,” Magwizi said.

He said Zimbabweans of all persuasions and the rest of southern Africa lost a gallant son of the soil, a hero of the African people’s liberation and a freedom fighter.

“Dabengwa may not have been a darling of the current administration, but let the brutal truth be told, Dabengwa earned his respect. Hate him, like him or love him, his contribution to the liberation of Africa will forever stand out unchallenged,” he said.

“DD was a forerunner in the armed struggle; he trained the crop of (President) Emmerson Mnangagwa and (Vice-President) Kembo Mohadi, who today… have a myopic view and squinted respect for their commander.”

Own Correspondent|State Media reports that police have arrested two more women who allegedly received training in Maldives with intent to roll out violent demonstrations in the country meant to remove President Emmerson Mnangagwa from power.

They are the Director of Female Prisoners Support Trust Rita Nyampinga and Sithabile Dewa, the Director of Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence.

The two were arrested soon after landing at Robert Gabriel Mugabe (RGM) International Airport on Monday, before being taken to Harare Central Police Station for further investigations.

They will appear in court soon.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests yesterday.

The arrest of the two brings to seven the number of suspects arrested in connection with the case since last week.

Last week, five members of Civil Society Organisations who government claimed received training in Maldives with intent to roll out violent demonstrations in the country, appeared in court facing allegations of subverting a constitutionally-elected Government.

The continued clampdown on civic society activists by the government of Zimbabwe clearly reveals a deliberate attempt to close the democratic space in the country.Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) notes with great concern that the ‘new dispensation’ continues to label civic society organizations as agents of regime change and this has been the basis upon which the government has tried to justify its crackdown on the organizations whose mandate is to uphold democracy and hold the government accountable.

We are also concerned that the State media has been complicit in the ongoing clampdown against civic society activists through biased reportage.On May 20, 2019, four civic society activists; George Makoni, Frank Mpahlo, Tatenda Mombeyarara and Gamuchirai Mukura were arrested at the Robert Mugabe International Airport upon their arrival from a peacebuilding workshop in Maldives.They are currently facing trumped-up charges of subversion.

Another girls and women’s’ rights activist, Farirai Gumbonzvanda was arrested on May 21, 2019, at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport as well and is facing charges of subversion.On May 27, two other womens’ rights activists, Stabile Dewa and Dr. Rita Nyampinga were arrested at the Robert Mugabe International Airport as well.Since the November military coup which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ascendancy to power, there has been continued militarization of key state institutions in Zimbabwe as well as systemic closure of the democratic space through persecution of civic society activists.

This continues to adversely affect efforts at economic development, broadening of democratic space as well as re-engagement with the international community. What has further worsened the situation is the legitimacy crisis on the part of President Mnangagwa following the much disputed 2018 polls as well as the August 1, 2018 and January 2019 shootings.CiZC is disturbed that while the government has apparently failed to revive the economy and uphold tenets of democracy, ‘the new dispensation’ has declared war against concerned Zimbabweans fighting for a democratic and economically developed Zimbabwe.This is reminiscent of the Mugabe era and bears testimony to the fact that Zimbabwe remains stuck in the dark past.The clampdown on civic society activists, coupled with the continued economic meltdown is a call to action.

Going Forward: As an umbrella body of civic society organizations in Zimbabwe, we urge the Government of Zimbabwe to refocus its energies on an inclusive national reforms program that seeks to broaden and strengthen democratic space and development.

The persecution of CSOs leaders only dampens efforts at achieving a shared national consensus to reform. We reiterate our call for an inclusive process on the national dialogue that brings all stakeholders together.We further clarify that in our view the national dialogue that we continue to call for is not predicated on creating another version of a Global Political Agreement or an elite power-sharing deal. We reiterate that our envisaged national dialogue should be a reform process that seeks to safeguard the interest of citizens by restoring the Social Contract between the citizens and those that govern.In this regard, we hold the firm view that the national dialogue process must never be restricted to political parties but should rather bring on board a cross-section of stakeholders that include civic society, labour, religious groups, business among other critical stakeholders.Restricting the dialogue process to political parties will only create a political pact that excludes the concerns of ordinary citizens. We strongly denounce cosmetic approaches to the national dialogue process.We implore President Mnangagwa that given the fact that he is an interested party and conflicted, the national dialogue process must be facilitated by an impartial body. We also raise our concerns over a national dialogue process that is facilitated by the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission on the basis of the following:

1. NPRC Commissioners are appointees of the President and save at his mercy who in this case is a conflicted party
2. The commission has, despite repeated calls and need, failed to rollout tangible national reconciliation initiatives

We further call on the president to prove his sincerity by ensuring that Zimbabwe has a conducive environment for holding an inclusive dialogue process in the wake of state-sponsored terror that has increased fear levels amongst citizens. To create a conducive environment and as part of confidence and trust building in the national dialogue, the government must immediately meet the following conditions:

1. End torture, abductions and enforced disappearances, murder, rape and maiming civilians by the military, state security agents and ruling party vigilante groups
2. Decriminalize the work of civic society and end the continued persecution and arbitrary arrests of civic society leaders
3. Ensure that peace and human security to prevail to allow for all stakeholder to freely express their views on the national dialogue process
4. Release of all political prisoners and return Zimbabwe to the rule of law
5. The attack on Chapter 12 institutions must seize and independent constitutional bodies allowed to discharge their mandate without undue interference from the state and other conflicted parties
6. Promote fair media coverage for all stakeholders and allow divergent views to be shared on all media platforms. Tolerance to divergence is the hallmark of enriching the national dialogue process

We reiterate that efforts at arresting the multi-faceted crisis facing the country are hinged on a proper national dialogue process that seeks to put the concerns of ordinary citizens on board.

Addressing the Zimbabwean crisis implies addressing the concerns of the ordinary citizens who have had to bear the brutal effects of an economic meltdown stemming from a constitutional and legitimacy crisis.

Government needs to honour its social protection obligations and this is achievable through wide consultations hence the need for an inclusive process.

On our part as Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, we have set our minimum demands for the national dialogue process based on wider consultations with our membership around the country.

Our demands are highlighted below;

On the process:

1) It is our conviction that the national dialogue process must involve all stakeholders and a national visioning process that has civil society, government, political parties, business, religious groups and labour unions among other critical stakeholders. The dialogue process should produce a clearly timed roadmap to the demilitarisation of civilian political processes and the restoration of normalcy by focusing on key political, economic and social reforms. In this regard, we call for FULL CONSULTATION of all stakeholders rather than cosmetic processes.

On the Economy:

2) It is imperative to arrest the economic downturn in Zimbabwe based on a clear reform roadmap and implementation of pro-poor and inclusive economic policies. Efforts at economic transformation, stabilisation and growth should be aimed at achieving inclusive sustainable economic growth and development.

On Constitutionalism, Rule of Law, Human Rights and Human Security:

3)  The Government of Zimbabwe must uphold and guarantee citizens’ rights as enshrined in the Zimbabwean Constitution and other regional and international human rights treaties and statutes. Full implementation of the country’s constitution is equally important in promoting democracy in Zimbabwe.

4)  The Government of Zimbabwe must respect the fundamental right of access to information, freedom of expression as well as freedom of association.

5)  There is need to immediately operationalise a comprehensive programme on national healing, reconciliation and nation-building that will depolarise society and entrench the respect for diversity, inclusion and tolerance in all facets of life.

6)  The army must desist from partisan politics and confine themselves to the barracks. There is an imperative need to de-militarise the Zimbabwean state.

7)  There is need for non-interference into the work of institutions that support democracy. This again calls for full implementation and respect of the country’s constitution. Also, government must not be seen to be criminalising the work of civic society organisations.

8)  CiZC holds the firm view that implementation of electoral reforms is critical as a way of doing away with disputed elections that often result in a legitimacy crisis which comes with negative impacts on democracy and economic development.

Farai Dziva|Although Senator Morgen Komichi has failed to retain the post of vice president in the MDC A he has emphasized that he will never abandon the revolution.

Said Komichi:”President (Nelson Chamisa) the line up that is before you today is the design of the Lord, you cannot change it. When God designs the leadership all we have to do is follow.”

“As a human being who has been foreseeing victory, it is natural to feel hurt and disappointed.

However, one should quickly accept it. It’s the voters who have selected these leaders, so who am I to go against the people’s choice.”

“I will never abandon the revolution, neither will I leave my young man (Chamisa). Please help me to heal because I want to. I will support the president and the entire team with anything they need from me.”

Farai Dziva|State security agents have driven to Masvingo from Harare with Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (COTRAD) director Gamuchirai Mukura to search for documents to prove the organization is working with external forces to topple Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Mukura and four human rights activists were arrested at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport for allegedly plotting to overthrow Mnangagwa’s government.

Among the four activists is Farirai Gumbonzvanda(26).

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights legal practitioners have revealed to ZimEye.com they are closely monitoring the situation.

COTRAD officials also confirmed state security agents travelled to Masvingo from Harare, forcibly entered the NGO’s offices and searched for what they described as “information on how to topple the government.”