By Own Correspondent- Six notorious armed robbers masquerading as soldiers allegedly broke into a shop in Harare and escaped with goods worth over US$19 000.

The daring suspected robbers who were clad in Zimbabwe National Army uniforms allegedly broke into number 5 Ultra Bliss and stole blazers, chinos pair of trousers, jackets and US$2 955 cash among other things.

One of the suspects, Nelson Ngwarati, appeared before magistrate Rumbidzai Mugwagwa on Thursday for robbery.

Allegations are that on April 20, 2019 at around 0205 hours, the accused person in the company of his accomplices already arrested namely Webster Musarurwa, Givemore Nyarugwe and Tendai Magauze and two others, Trustme Kauzani and Ostern who are still at large, went to number 5 Ultra Bliss in a commuter omnibus.

Dressed in Zimbabwe National Army uniforms and armed with rifles, they allegedly approached two security guards who were guarding the shop. It is the State’s case that they threatened the security guards, threatening to shoot them with their rifles if they did not run away. The security guards allegedly ran away leaving the accused at the shop.

It is alleged that the accused persons then smashed the display glasses of the shop with an object likely to be an iron bar and gained entry into the shop. While inside the shop the court heard that they allegedly damaged CCTV cameras before stealing goods worth US$19 575.

The accused persons allegedly loaded the loot into their getaway car, a commuter omnibus which was parked outside and sped off. On April 29 detectives from CID homicide in Harare reportedly arrested Ngwarati at Artillery Brigade in Domboshava.

Ngwarati led the detectives to the recovery of some stolen goods from his sister’s place in Waterfalls. The other stolen property was recovered from a man who had bought them from the accused persons.

By Own Correspondent- Urban grooves singer Nox has apologized for the viral video in which he features which is currently circulating on the social media.

Nox’s apology follows a video by the artist where he allegedly filmed himself m@sturbat!ng on a video call with a girl only identified as Mabrijo.

His PR team took to Facebook with an apology:

PRESS RELEASE. Our client admits that he did wrong and has no justification for what happened. He apologizes to the family members, friends and fans and mostly to his wife. We, however as the lawyers to our client will make sure this is dealt with and we are making sure that the justice system takes its course.

Kind Regards Nox Legal Team

This scandal follows barely a month after the musician got engaged to his UK based fiancee Tadzo.

By Own Correspondent- A 48-year-old man died after he plunged down the Redwing Mine main shaft believed to me 1 000 metres deep as he was trying to steal gold ore while in the company of his four friends.

“Njabulo Ncube fell into the mine on April 24 and was retrieved from the shaft by a rescue team from the mine and the police. He was found on April 27,” said the police. 

Redwing Mine manager Stanford Magomo refused to comment referring The Manica Post to the Ministry of Mines.

“I am not supposed to be talking to you. I think you have to get the information from the head office in Harare or the Ministry of Mines. They have offices in town (Mutare). They have all the information,” he said. Sources at the mine said Ncube was in the company of four other men and were trying to steal gold ore from the mine.

“The main shaft is about 1 000 metres deep and we suspect that these people have been doing it before this incident. The mine closed its operations a few months ago and they decided to take advantage of the absence of people around the mine.

“Considering the way the shaft is positioned, we suspect that the man who fell into the shaft is a former worker who is familiar with the shaft’s settings. There is no way an ordinary person can think of going down the shaft in search of gold ore,” said the source.

Mutasa South legislator Regai Tsunga described the incident as results of unpaid wages and retrenchments without being given benefits. “Spent time with the Penhalonga community consoling the family of one Ncube who fell to his death into the main mine shaft at Redwing Mine…catastrophic results of unpaid wages, retrenchment without benefits and a deteriorating economy,” he said on his Facebook page.

By Own Correspondent- A self-styled Chipinge traditional healer is lucky to be alive after being given a thorough hiding by a male neighbour whose pregnant wife he allegedly snatched and tried to terminate the pregnancy.

The matter was remanded to May 8 after Moyokudu requested for the services of a lawyer. Moyokudu pleaded not guilty, arguing that the traditional healer Enoch Mabure (55), eloped with his wife and children.

“I assaulted him (traditional healer) after he ran away with my wife. She was pregnant and he wanted to help her abort. I do not have my wife at home; she ditched me together with my minor children for him,’’ he said.

Prosecutor Shamiso Ncube told the court that on November 21, 2018, Moyokudu’s wife went to the traditional healer’s homestead seeking his services since she was unwell. The two are close neighbours.

“Mabure told the woman that he could not help her in the absence of her husband, and she return home intending to return with Moyokudu. The woman did not return to the traditional healer place since Moyokudu had refused to accompany her.

“The following day Mabure visited Moyokudu’s homestead asking why he had not accompanied his wife as he had instructed. A misunderstanding ensued where Mabure produced a sjambok and demanded to see the woman.

“However, Moyokudu disarmed Mabure and went on to whip him using the sjambok. Mabure escaped and made a police report at Chibuwe police station, leading to the arrest of Moyokudu,” she said.

By Own Correspondent- In its Workers’ Day statement, ZELA said most mine workers were at risk of fatal accidents, citing the recent Battlefields mine disaster, where over 20 artisanal miners died in a mineshaft.

The environmental lawyers also cited cases of child labour, saying they were rampant in the farming sector.

Most mining and agriculture sector workers are among the least-paid despite working under hazardous conditions that threaten their lives and health, the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (Zela) has said.

Recently, companies like Anglo Platinum, Impala Platinum and Caledonia Mining Corporation awarded an 80% wage increase to their workers, which saw their salaries rising from a minimum wage of ZWL$262,32 to ZWL$468,58.

“Zela particularly bemoans the state of workers in the mining and agriculture sectors, which are our programming areas. Despite having one of the best Constitutions, the state of workers in Zimbabwe is disheartening and workers in the mining industry are currently the lowest paid despite the fact that this is an industry that is labour intensive and is highly risky and hazardous to health,” Zela said.

“It is a fact that most of these workers are being paid paltry salaries which have remained stagnant despite the price of most basic commodities have gone up more than 200% since January 2019. Several mining and agriculture industry workers are, therefore, living below the poverty datum line, which flies in the face of United Nations principles.”

Zela said some of the challenges that the mining and agriculture sector workers faced included non-payment of salaries, underpayment and unlawful dismissals.

“The Battlefields mine disaster is still fresh in the minds of many. The fatal disaster speaks volumes about the state of disaster preparedness in the country and safety and health of mine workers in the industry,” the environmental lawyers noted.

“Furthermore, Zela is concerned about child labour practices in the country, especially in the mining and agriculture industry. This situation should not be allowed to prevail because our Constitution provides for the protection of children’s rights and particularly condemns child labour.”

The government should implement and enforce labour laws to improve the rights of all workers, as well as to put in place legislative, judiciary and administrative and policy measures, Zela further noted.

Meanwhile, the Chinhoyi Municipality on Wednesday came under heavy criticism for allegedly blocking the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) from using Chinhoyi Stadium for the Workers’ Day commemorations.

ZCTU northern region secretary David Malunga told NewsDay that the council said the proposed venue for the Workers’ Day event was undergoing renovations, despite the fact that the same facility had previously been used for a Division Two league football match pitting council-run Chinhoyi Stars against Magunje Bombers, a Zimbabwe National Army side.

Malunga said the ZCTU applied to the local authority well on time, but were denied use of the venue on the pretext it was under refurbishment.

“The application was tendered through the housing directorate headed by Timothy Maregere, who told us in no uncertain terms that we could not use the stadium. He said the facility was under renovations, but the same was recently used for the Independence Day celebrations and a Zesa fire drill. Today (Wednesday) it was being used to host a football match. What we believe now is that the council has been captured. It is under Zanu PF command despite having MDC dominance,” he said.

For the past eight years, ZCTU has held the May Day event at Alaska, 20km outside Chinhoyi.

Do you think Mnangagwa will turn up for Tsvangirai's memorial tomorrow?

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) May 3, 2019

By Own Correspondent- A day before the country remembers one of its most iconic sons, the late Morgan Tsvangirai, President Emmerson Mnangagwa is yet to decide on whether or not he is set to attend the memorial service for the late opposition leader who died on February 14 2018.

The family of the late MDC founding president Morgan Tsvangirai invited both President Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu-PF party to the former Prime Minister’s memorial.

Tsvangirai succumbed to cancer of the colon last year and his memorial is finally going to be held in his rural home on May 4 in Buhera where he was buried.

Despite having dedicated his life to fighting Zanu-PF, Tsvangirai’s family said they would like Mnangagwa and Zanu-PF to attend.

Before his death, Mnangagwa and other senior government officials paid a courtesy call on Tsvangirai at his house in Harare.

He was also given a State assisted funeral.

MDC spokesperson Jacob Mafume said the party has no problem with Zanu-PF or any other person attending the memorial of their founding leader.

The Tsvangirai family said it will not allow wearing of party regalia at the memorial service for the former Prime Minister in Buhera at the weekend.

“The emphasis is that we have invited everyone; this is not a partisan thing and on top of that we expect people to come putting what reminds us of Morgan Tsvangirai,” Manase said while addressing journalists at Tsvangirai’s Strathaven house in Harare.

“There is no any other regalia that should be put on except that of Dr Morgan Richard Tsvangirai. This is a memorial (and) we expect the event to be peaceful in Buhera.

“We are expecting different people from the State departments, different political parties and different people from other institutions,” he said.

The family said they expect the event to be peaceful and open to everyone because Tsvangirai worked with almost everyone, including former President Robert Mugabe, who was his main rival during his long political career.

Manase said the family will be leading the proceedings, hence their wishes, especially on regalia, must be respected.

“I think people should actually respect the Tsvangirai family and we are saying it’s better you put Morgan Tsvangirai regalia because we are remembering him as a person who has gone before us.

“To the family, I think it will be like an insult to try and put on something that doesn’t resemble him. We will encourage people to put on something about Morgan Tsvangirai for those few hours,” he said.

Manase said there was no bad blood between the family and the Nelson Chamisa-led MDC leadership.

By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday promised the people of Manicaland that government would not leave the area until there has been restoration of all destroyed infrastructure.

President Mnangagwa said this in an address to a crowd of villagers who were gathered at Ngaone High School in Chipinge soon after meeting 13 chiefs from the district as well as Chimanimani.

He said:

My ministers are not going to leave this place until all the roads are rehabilitated.

We are not talking of repairing only those that were washed away but upgrading the whole network. Those that need to be tarred will be tarred for sure.

We received enough medication for various ailments. I want to praise doctors here for making personal sacrifices to assist affected communities. They are doing a great job.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- Following a tip off that her husband was tying the knot with his concubine, a woman from Bulawayo stormed ‘her husband’s secret wedding reception in the company of her sisters, causing a huge scene.

The newlyweds fled to the police station.

Nhora Konyane (47), together with her younger sisters got a tip-off, that Pearson Moyo (48), was getting married to another woman, Silibaziso Sibanda in Cowdary Park in Bulawayo.

However, they arrived a little too late as Moyo had already tied the knot at the Civil Court. Konyane went to sit at the bridal table and gave a speech to the crowd. When the newly-weds also got a tip-off about the fire waiting for them at home; they quickly turned their convoy and headed to the police station.

Konyane and her siblings were arrested. They were then detained for more than three hours. ‘’I was shocked to hear that my husband was getting married to another woman. I couldn’t understand why he could betray me like this. We have been married for 17 years and lived together in Old Pumula suburb,’’ Konyane told B Metro.

‘‘If it wasn’t for the tip-off I wouldn’t have known this whole shenanigan, I am very disappointed and seek justice to this whole situation,’’ she said.

Konyane had been living in South Africa for two years while her husband Moyo was in the country.

‘’She is a liar, she had been separated with Moyo for more two years now. She mistreated him and treated him like a dog. I took care of him and gave him love which she had failed to do for years,’’ Sibanda, the love rival said.

Moyo said he broke up with Konyane in 2016 after she chased him out of the house and took everything from him.

“She caused chaos for nothing, we broke up in 2016 after she chased me out of the house, she then went to South Africa leaving me without a home. I stayed in four different places before I settled in Nkulumane suburb,’’ said Moyo.

‘’She lied about everything. I am not her husband. I am happily married to Sibanda who is a loving and caring wife who has never mistreated me. I am glad I married her. Konyane is disturbing my peace, I wish she could stay away from me and my wife,” he said.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- Transform Zimbabwe leader Jacob Ngarivhume has opted out of the coalition of political parties under the banner MDC Alliance.

Ngarivhume, who joined the political marriage after he was enticed into the 2018 pre-election political arrangement by the late MDC founding President Morgan Tsvangirai in 2017, pulled out of the Alliance after he failed to make it into the party’s nominations ahead of the forthcoming congress.

Ngarivhume who was not remembered at all in the just ended MDC nomination congresses confirmed that his party had decided to pull out of the Alliance.

“We are leaving the alliance. We met as the executive and decided to make this decision.

“Transform Zimbabwe executive felt we can add more value as TZ to the democratic movement. We want to build more our organization and then work with the alliance in 2023,” said Ngarivhume.

The other members of the coalition included factions of former MDC Secretary Generals, Tendai Biti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Welshman Ncube’s MDC, who have both been successfully integrated into the new MDC set up.

The other partners who have also been ignored in the building of the new MDC were Zanu Ndonga led by Denford Musiyarira, Multi-Racial Christian Democratic Party and Zimbabwe People First fronted by Agrippa Mutambara.

Ncube is now Chamisa’s deputy while Biti currently serves as vice national chairperson. The two have been nominated to contest to be vice presidents at the upcoming congress set for this month.

The Transform Zimbabwe leader, however, said his party could still go into another pre-election coalition with the MDC in the next election.

“Transform Zimbabwe executive felt we can add more value as TZ to the democratic movement. We want to build more our organisation and then work with the alliance in 2023,” he said.

Analysts have since indicated that the alliance was more of a reunion of the MDC which has seen those that have never been connected to the party sidelined.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- The Cabinet has approved the principles of a Bill which will force all magistrates to take an oath of office before the Chief Justice.

The Magistrates’ Court Amendment Bill was presented to Cabinet by Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi.

Speaking during a routine post-cabinet media briefing in the capital Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said:

The principles seek to align the Act with the Zimbabwe Constitution.

The amendments seek, inter alia; to provide that all magistrates take oath of office before the Chief Justice or any other person duly delegated by the Chief Justice; to provide for the right of a litigant to be represented by a legal practitioner of their choice; the inclusion of procedures for the enforcement of the fundamental rights and freedoms of persons and to provide for the composition of magistrates court to adjudicate on criminal and civil matters.

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told the state media that it is too early to talk about the provisions of the Bill since they have not yet been drafted. He said:

What was approved by Cabinet are the principles that will then guide the Attorney-General’s Office when drafting the Bill.

The amendments that we are making are minor and seek to align the Act with the Constitution by, for example including provisions that will ensure everyone has access to justice.

However, it is too early to talk about the provisions of the Bill because we do not have that at the moment.

MISA Zimbabwe is sharing its recommendations for improving media freedom, freedom of expression and access to information in Zimbabwe to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2019.

LAWS AND REGULATIONS
Repeal of AIPPA and BSA

Maintain momentum and pressure for the repeal of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA), which is used to license and regulate the media, as well as the Broadcasting Services Act (BSA). #AIPPAMustFall! #BSAMustFall! #MediaReformsNow!

MEDIA INDEPENDENCE
Transform ZBC into a truly independent broadcaster

Increase and maintain pressure on the urgent need for transformation of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) into a truly independent public broadcaster.

DIGITAL MIGRATION
Push for government transparency around digital migration

Press the government of Zimbabwe to be transparent on the digital migration process and allocation of resources under this exercise.

SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS
Ensure a safe working environment for journalists

ADVERTISEMENT

Put pressure on the government and its security arms, as well as politicians, to ensure a safe working environment for journalists. State organs and political parties still perpetrate the majority of crimes against media professionals in Zimbabwe.

Investigate and prosecute crimes against journalists

Demand police investigations of assaults, and other violence, against media professionals and an end to impunity on crimes against journalists.

Demand an investigation into attacks on journalists during the 1st August 2018 demonstrations

Journalists were assaulted and injured while covering the events of 1st August 2018 when the armed services shot at demonstrators in central Harare. The government must investigate this violence against the media.

Continue to implement the police-media action plan

Maintain the relationship and engage with the Zimbabwe Republic Police to continue the implementation of the December 2017 media-police resolutions.

MEDIA TRAINING
Encourage journalism schools to address media sector needs

Urge media training institutions to fine-tune and modernise their curriculums to better suit industry and market needs. Newsrooms are often having to retrain university journalism graduates as they lack the fundaments of contemporary journalism practice.

MEDIA and GENDER
Promote more women to management

The media industry needs to promote the participation of women in decision-making positions by appointing more women on merit into top management positions. The sector should also ensure that they are paid on the same scale as their male counterparts.

By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday promised the people of Manicaland that the rehabilitation of infrastructure destroyed by Cyclone Idai-induced floods will continue until everything has been restored.

President Mnangagwa said this in an address to a crowd of villagers who were gathered at Ngaone High School in Chipinge soon after meeting 13 chiefs from the district as well as Chimanimani.

He said:

“My ministers are not going to leave this place until all the roads are rehabilitated.

We are not talking of repairing only those that were washed away but upgrading the whole network. Those that need to be tarred will be tarred for sure.

We received enough medication for various ailments. I want to praise doctors here for making personal sacrifices to assist affected communities. They are doing a great job.”-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- MDC president, Nelson Chamisa, has respondent to statements by Zanu Pf stalwarts describing his statements on “Workers’ Day” as careless.

Reacting to the statement by Zanu Pf, Chamisa rhetorically asked the ruling party to prove his carelessness arguing that his statements on May Day was sound advise on how the current leadership can save a country. :

Said Chamisa:

How is giving kind advice and wise counsel on the need to resolve people ‘bread and butter’ survival issues through genuine and credible dialogue a careless gesture?

What is carelessness is failing to take caution when one is being given fair advice on how to save a country!

Media Statement|Media reports of the 2nd of May 2019 carried a story on Nelson Chamisa’s indication and willingness to assist Emmerson Mnangagwa to apologize to the people of Zimbabwe on Gukurahundi.

Chamisa made that pledge while addressing workers at a ZCTU May 1 celebration in Harare.

The first anomaly is Chamisa’s deliberate omission of Matebeleland people as the victims, who deserve such an apology. He insinuates that Gukurahundi was an atrocity that was inflicted on the generality of Zimbabweans, while deliberately skating around the FACT that it was an ethnic onslaught.

It has always been a taboo for MDC members to condemn Zanu PF on Gukurahundi, because it has borrowed the same tribal lea from it. Chamisa perceives Gukurahundi as an impediment to political stability and progress, rather than a dillema and life hurdle for the victims. Any honest leader in Zimbabwe will appreciate that Gukurahundi did not affect the people of Zimbabwe, but the people of Matebeleland and part of the Midlands.

Chamisa is where he is today as a direct beneficiary of Gukurahundi. Mashonaland is where it is today as a result of Gukurahundi. Schools are a few kilometres apart in Mashonaland as a result of Gukurahundi. The civil service in Matebeleland employs people from only the Shona tribes, as a result of Gukurahundi. In a nutshell service delivery is tilted towards Mashonaland, as a result of Gukurahundi, hence Chamisa’s failure to identify Gukurahundi with Matebeleland people is shocking. Chamisa’s predecessor Morgan Tsvangirai, also bargained for power from Robert Mugabe by promising to forgive him on Gukurahundi on the event of him relinquishing power. All MDC leaders, including Chamisa must know that Gukurahundi is a genocide. The MDC attitude of turning a blind eye to issues of human rights and Justice is very regrettable.

In the elections of the 30th of July 2018, Chamisa shocked Bulawayo by pushing council and mayoral candidates of Shona ethnicity. Those who had been doubting the Code XXX as an MDC version of the tribal grand plan, were jolted to reality.

It is quite disturbing that Chamisa and his party never uttered even one word on Gukurahundi during their co-reign in the Government of National Unity, but only to bolt from the blue now with the offer of assisting Mnangagwa to apologize to the people of Zimbabwe. When will Chamisa and his party ever demand justice for the people of Matebeleland? Your theatrics of trying to trivialize and nationalise Gukurahundi for your political expediency will backfire on you. Please stop playing with Gukurahundi victims.

Matebeleland, until recently has always been a strong support base for the MDC party, it is hence worrying when Chamisa positions himself to assisting Mnangagwa instead of the victims of Gukurahundi. Nelson Chamisa, as a law graduate knows that apology is not JUSTICE. Anyone who undermines the intelligence of the people of Matebeleland, does that in his own peril.

The truth is that Gukurahundi was and still is an ethnic genocide.
We are watching you Chamisa. Every dog has its day.

I put it to you Nelson Chamisa that you are born of a gukurahundist and you are just shedding crocodile tears on our innocent Mthwakazi people.

For Peace and Justice in Our Lifetime.

Sisonke Sibambene SinguMthwakazi Sizakulungisa.

Mqondisi Moyo
MRP President

The United States of America opened its US$292 million embassy compound in Harare.

US Ambassador to Zimbabwe Brian Nichols said the new embassy symbolised the United States’ ongoing and durable commitment to the people of Zimbabwe.

He said the US would build relations.

“In addition to structures, we built relationships across a network of service providers,” he said. “We look forward to deepening those relationships. The United States aspires to strengthen its partnership with Zimbabwe and to expand trade and investment between our countries. Embracing political and economic reform is the key to achieving these goals.

“We are pleased the Government is moving toward repealing legislation that fails to align with Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution. The right of Zimbabweans to express their views peacefully, to collectively bargain, and to choose their leaders via free and fair elections should never be infringed,” he said.

Ambassador Nichols called for a national dialogue on political, social and economic reforms to build confidence in a new Zimbabwe.

He said the new embassy was inspired by the architecture used in the construction of the Great Zimbabwe.

“Senior great architecture enriches the people and society around it. The proud people of this land knew this truth a millennia ago when they laid the foundations of Great Zimbabwe, the land of kings, nearly 300 kilometres from here. And Great Zimbabwe served as the inspiration for this beautiful building.

“Our campus evokes Zimbabwe’s geography. The country’s wide open rural plains, known as the “veld” are distinguished by their gently sloping terrain, vast grasslands and tree cover. The canopy over the main entrance that draws its inspiration from the mbira dzavadzimu, or “voice of the ancestors,” a musical instrument that the people of Zimbabwe have played for thousands of years,” he said.

An American artist Yael Kanarek created the hanging art with the words ‘Night’ and ‘Day’ in 19 languages spoken in Zimbabwe.

Ambassador Nichols expressed his appreciation to Government and the City of Harare for their support and co-operation during the construction of the structure.

Ambassador Mathema congratulated US President Donald Trump and the people of America and said the construction of the new complex in Zimbabwe was a sign of a beautiful future between the two countries.

“The construction of this building shows what good relations we have and what beautiful thoughts we have about each other.

“We hope for the best all the time. It is a good sign and shows the US is going to be here forever,” he said.

United States director, bureau of overseas buildings operations, Mr Tad Davis said he was proud of this new embassy’s eco-friendly features which pursue resiliency, energy savings and sustainability goals, that aim to reduce the overall environmental impact, while optimizing building performance, to enhance the self sufficiency of the campus.

“This embassy not only demonstrates our long term commitment to partnership with the people of Zimbabwe but enables us to advance prosperity, security and stability as mutual goals in line with our Africa Strategy. May this occasion serve as a platform to further enhance and strengthen the co-operation between the United States of America and Zimbabwe,” he said.

State Media

Jane Mlambo| Former President Robert Mugabe’s spokesperson Jealousy Mawarire has told First lady Auxillia Mnangagwa that civil servants do not report to her and it was unacceptable that she moves around demanding to see government documents.

Yesterday Auxillia appeared on ZBC-TV demanding answers from Natpharm workers over the supply of medical drugs to public heath centres.

Posting on Twitter yesterday, Mawarire said it was unacceptable that Auxillia who is not a government official was going to parastatals asking for official documents.

“Zimboz, tell me which legal instrument empowers First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa to investigate NatFam drug dispensary. She isn’t a govt official yet she goes to parastatals asking for official documents. That’s totally unacceptable. Civil servants don’t report to a First Lady,” said Mawarire.

Jane Mlambo| First lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s investigation into the supply of medical drugs from Natpharm to public heath centres has been questioned by Jealousy Mawarire who demanded to know the legal instrument she is using to demand answers from government institutions.

Posting on Twitter yesterday, Mawarire said it was unacceptable that Auxillia who is not a government official was going to parastatals asking for official documents.

“Zimboz, tell me which legal instrument empowers First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa to investigate NatFam drug dispensary. She isn’t a govt official yet she goes to parastatals asking for official documents. That’s totally unacceptable. Civil servants don’t report to a First Lady.”

Zimboz, tell me which legal instrument empowers First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa to investigate NatFam drug dispensary. She isn't a govt official yet she goes to parastatals asking for official documents. That's totally unacceptable. Civil servants don't report to a First Lady. pic.twitter.com/bdJY32APeT

— mawarire mbizvo jealousy (@mawarirej) May 2, 2019

By Dorrothy Moyo| MDC President Nelson Chamisa has responded to allegations by ZANU PF that his MayDay speech was careless discourse.

ZANU PF in a statement yesterday, threatened to repeat the January 2019 military violence which saw the ZDF killing over 17 people. ZANU PF was criticising Chamisa’s Wednesday speech.

Writing on Friday morning, Chamisa said, “how is giving kind advice and wise counsel on the need to resolve people ‘bread and butter’ survival issues through genuine and credible dialogue a careless gesture?

“What is carelessness is failing to take caution when one is being given fair advice on how to save a country!”

Own Correspondent|The MDC Alliance has suffered a blow after one of its partners, Transform Zimbabwe, has opted out of the political marriage.

T.Z, led by Jacob Ngarivhume was enticed into the 2018 pre-election political marriage of convenience by the late MDC founding President Morgan Tsvangirai in 2017.

Ngarivhume who was not remembered at all in the just ended MDC nomination congresses confirmed that his party had decided to pull out of the Alliance.

“We are leaving the alliance. We met as the executive and decided to make this decision.

“Transform Zimbabwe executive felt we can add more value as TZ to the democratic movement. We want to build more our organization and then work with the alliance in 2023,” said Ngarivhume.

The other members of the coalition included factions of former MDC Secretary Generals, Tendai Biti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Welshman Ncube’s MDC, who have both been successfully integrated into the new MDC set up.

The other partners who have also been ignored in the building of the new MDC were Zanu Ndonga led by Denford Musiyarira, Multi-Racial Christian Democratic Party and Zimbabwe People First fronted by Agrippa Mutambara.

Ncube is now Chamisa’s deputy while Biti currently serves as vice national chairperson. The two have been nominated to contest to be vice presidents at the upcoming congress set for this month.

The Transform Zimbabwe leader however said his party could still go into another pre-election coalition with the MDC in the next election.

“Transform Zimbabwe executive felt we can add more value as TZ to the democratic movement. We want to build more our organisation and then work with the alliance in 2023,” he said.

Analysts have since indicated that the alliance was more of a reunion of the MDC which has seen those that have never been connected to the party sidelined.

Manica Post|“IT WAS like a miracle, she was rescued from the epicentre of a whirlwind, which ushered her out of the flood waters. We had searched her for an hour without any clue of where she was alongside her two dead brothers. It was unbelievable to see her emerging from the whirlwind; that could only be God’s answer to me – the same manner he answered Job out of the whirlwind”.

These were the touching words of Emily Chingwashu (33) as she narrated the miraculous survival of her daughter Atidaishe Chingwaru (4), from the furious Cyclone Idai, which ravaged Chimanimani a month ago.

The little girl was rescued an hour after being swept away by flood waters that enveloped Ngangu Township. As houses were submerged in floods, people fought for dear lives and the search for relatives intensified.

The innocent Atidaishe was nowhere to be found.

It was only after about an hour that a strong whirlwind emerged, and miraculously, out of it emerged the little girl.

Atidaishe was seated at the epicentre of the miraculously whirlwind.

She was calm, relaxed and unhurt.

“It was like a miracle, I could not believe my eyes. We searched for Atidaishe and the other children, but failed to locate her before she appeared in a whirlwind.

“She went missing together with her brothers Adore (14) and Ashley Chingwaru (10), whom we all found dead. We never thought the little girl would survive.

“She was not even crying, though she looked confused, when she emerged from the whirlwind,” narrated Mrs Gloria Chirara, who took custody of the little girl when the storm subsidised.

While the incident appears stranger than fiction, most Ngangu residents, though shocked, confirmed it.

Mrs Chingwaru said the incident was a testimony of God’s all-conquering power.

“I never thought she was alive after realising that her brothers had died. I am grateful God kept her alive,” she said.

Apart from losing her two sons, Mrs Chingwaru lost all her valuables and livelihoods. Mrs Chingwaru is among the 12 families currently housed at Ngangu United Methodist Church building.

“Nothing was left, but a void in my heart. My house was swept away and the place I call a home now is the Ngangu United Methodist Church where I am residing with my daughter,” said Mrs Chingwaru.

The MDC National Council met last week and reviewed the Congress progress.

The Council received a report from the Organising Department. The report included the completion of 11200 branch Congresses, 1958 Ward Congresses, 210 District Congresses and 13 Provincial Congresses.

All nominees have been given up to Tuesday to accept nominations or to withdraw. Where more than two candidates accept the nomination, they are encouraged to discuss in the spirit of consensus building. The Electoral Commission shall then produce ballots on every position where more than one candidate decide to contest. The positions to be contested include the President, Vice President, National Chairperson, Secretary General and Treasurer General.

Own Correspondent|In a shocking claim, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has promised cyclone Idai destroyed rural Manicaland chiefs and their subjects that his government will construct rural based heavy industries for them.

While addressing thousands of villagers at Ngaone High School in Chipinge yesterday soon after he held a closed door meeting with the chiefs, Mnangagwa promised that meaningful reconstruction will only be achieved with the input and blessings of the traditional leaders.

The meeting was also attended by Vice President Kembo Mohadi as well as several Government ministers.

He said following the cyclone disaster, Government departments quickly embarked on a rescue mission and in the process, left out traditional leaders in the ensuing haste.

“We have asked for forgiveness and we have been forgiven. Our chiefs have registered a lot of grievances which we will act on in order to bring about rural industrialisation to the two districts,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said Government was not embarking on piece meal rehabilitation works in Chipinge and Chimanimani but implementing sweeping rural industrialisation development strategies.

He said the disastrous effects of Cyclone Idai were an eye opener.

“My ministers are not going to leave this place until all the roads are rehabilitated. We are not talking of repairing only those that were washed away but upgrading the whole network. Those that need to be tarred will be tarred for sure.

“We received enough medication for various ailments. I want to praise doctors here for making personal sacrifices to assist affected communities. They are doing a great job,” he said.

He singled out two junior doctors whom he said walked long distances to reach Chimanimani and help patients in Ngangu.

“I do not know what I am going to do for these two doctors but I am going to do something,” he said.

Turning to the exploration of various agricultural and mineral endowments in the districts as presented by the chiefs, President Mnangagwa said more needs to be done to promote tourism, horticulture as well as ensuring that diamonds that are being mined there benefit locals like what is happening in Chiadzwa.

ZANU-PF will send a delegation to South Africa to attend the African National Congress (ANC) “Siyanqoba” star rally at the Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday ahead of the country’s national elections next Wednesday.

Zanu-PF Secretary of Administration Dr Obert Mpofu said former Senate president Edna Madzongwe and little known Mail Nkomo will represent the party at the rally. “I was there two weeks ago to lend our support as a party but for the Sunday programme, the party has sent Cdes Madzongwe and Nkomo to represent us,” said Dr Mpofu.

“Our message to our fellow liberation movement that championed the liberation of South Africa is that we wish them success in the coming elections, we also wish that they conduct their elections in a free and fair environment.”

Other parties invited for the rally include the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), Basotho National Party (BNP) and All Basotho Convention (ABC) both from Lesotho, Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) from Tanzania, SWAPO from Namibia and the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO).

University of Zimbabwe students had an opportunity to grill Prophetic Healing and Deliverance founder, Prophet Walter Magaya in a question and answer session at the campus’ Great Hall on Tuesday.

Prophet Magaya was introduced to the sociology and political science students as “doctor and prophet” by Sociology lecturer, Dr Watch Ruparanganda Chinhenga.

Among the students’ burning questions were on the controversial Aguma drug, use of anointing oil, wearing of wrist bands and bracelets, prosperity gospel, emergence of self-styled prophets, one on one, sponsoring soccer and church position on political leaders.

Below are some of the exchanges during the question and answer sessions:

POLITICS

QUESTION: What is the church’s position especially prophets on political leaders given that people feel some are not from God and how do we know that they (politicians) are chosen by God considering that they are elected through votes.

ANSWER: It is the mandate of all church leaders to pray for leaders currently in positions. The Bible is clear on that issue and it does not say we have to pray and honour former leaders or aspiring leaders but those on positions.

Church leaders who encourage members to revolt against leaders in positions are not only causing people to suffer but fighting God, who allows anyone he or she wants to rule.

These leaders are chosen by God for a specific purpose. Each one is called to do a specific task and we have to respect that.

No matter elections are carried, some who may have a spirit against the one who is wanted by God fail to vote for various reasons to allow the one they do not want to win so the Holy Spirit helps much in controlling to fulfill God’s plan. That is why David refused to kill Soul.

All Prophets are different in their calling so political leaders are called to various tasks God wants that nation to be led so be guided accordingly and stop imposing leaders you think suit you or you think are the best to rule when their time has not arrived.

At the fullness of time God sent his son, so our God is of time and seasons. Those who are failing to move on with their business expecting to do it when the one they want is ruling will die before fending for their children and I urge pastors to teach people these things for the good of the nation and read on Romans chapter 13.

AGUMA

Q: Why did you think of using medicine when you introduced Aguma instead of laying hands on sick people since you are a prophet? Also, is this allowed by God and was this accepted internationally since you have a bigger following?

A: Christ Jesus used various ways in healing the sick and among them was his saliva in healing the blind, in the Old Testament Mwari akatoudza muporofita kuti ashandise muti kuisa pamamota munhu akatopora.

I am a human being and get tired that I cannot lay hands on everyone including those in various countries.

What we all agree is that people are sick and some are dying every day due to cancer or HIV and Aids that is why God showed me the plant to use medicine that reaches and be accepted in various countries.

To be sure with the medicine I engaged the learned in that area, who are doctors from India and they approved it. Only that it was unfortunate it was not accepted in my mother country but some of the countries are ever calling me to distribute it in their countries.

We urge people to visit medical doctors before and after visiting Prophets for healing and I want to believe this is what is being encouraged everywhere.

The use of anointing oil and water is not only done by us but Catholics, where I started, use them as well kune chizorwa chevarwere nemvura sande inoiswa pahuma paunopinda mukereke saka Mwari anotendera kuti miti, mvura nezvimwe zvaakasika zvishandiswe pakubatsira ruzhinji.

Mwari anoti ndichavawandichava so he uses anything anytime and instructs a Prophet to do anything depending on situation or people around to the glorification of His name.

Mwari mukuru kupfuura ruzivo rwemunhu uye hatimupedze kanakumuita wedu he is the mighty God who has no beginning or end and cannot be understood by our human minds.

I wish you students put your trust in Him first and add knowledge because you can be the best students before graduation if God does not allow you to live especially those who do not obey their parents.

SOCCER

Q: Why are you promoting soccer instead of concentrating on taking people to Christ and preach about heaven?

A: I do not promote soccer only but many sporting disciplines that includes rugby, volleyball, tennis and many more.

By promoting sport I fight the spirit yekuti kubhora kunoitwa zvemishonga saka ndinovavarira kubvisa vatambi vedu paneizvozvo vovimba nesimba raMwari through sport and with that I have a number of soccer players who turned to God and I have witnessed many attending various churches so we use all ways to win people to Christ.

Apart from sport I as well invite sungura and dancehall musicians at our services to perform for few minutes and other hours are for the gospel that deliver many including those abusing drugs to be transformed by hearing the word of life.

It is important for students to analyse everything before they are quick to give a judgment on anything since most students, who judge books by their covers, miss a lot in their studies.

Many who judge me are never at my services but are at the forefront to criticize us instead of visiting us and get the truth.

I do not go by or change my attitude or calling based on what people say because at the end of the day, they too, are judging me from their perspective.

I would rather by myself and let people accept me for what I am than be somebody who I am not, just because I want people’s approval.

PROSPERITY

Q: Why is it that most emerging prophets are teaching prosperity, do you personally believe in prosperity and how do I know true Prophets?

A: I personally believe in prosperity and some of the books I am donating to you today were bought by my 10-year old son.

At 10 he is already an entrepreneur and this is what I expect most of you to do as students with capabilities of being creative, masters of their destiny, think tanks of nation building and that alone is not done by someone who does not believe in prosperity.

God gave us resources to use and benefit other nations as well and if you are a University student who want to remain poor, you have no reason of wasting your parents’ money studying to keep them poor and wait to go to heaven.

If prophets are giving you ideas on how to prosper, they are teaching you good news because Jesus gave food to those who were hungry and gave clothes to the naked and we must allow you to drive good cars to reach far and that alone is not done by poor people.

Mentality of criticizing things that help you has failed many in their careers and Prophets who has no answers to people’s problems are not good.

Emerging prophets are an opportunity to many who hate Prophet Magaya and few others to choose the one they want to follow for the good of their souls and the nation at large.

As for true prophets, let me tell you that you must have a spirit of discerning or an instinct that tells you that you are being fooled but if you do not have this instinct it is more dangerous that there is need to check if you are not abusing drugs or being used by the devil in one way or the other.

Everyone can prophecy including women and they are called prophetess because of their ability to produce and multiply but prophesying does not make you a Prophet.

A Prophet and prophesying are different. You can be able to see where you are heading to and make plans and it is one reason you are studying sociology because you are aiming to fulfill your dreams or what you saw in spirit.

As for Prophets they are given to church by God under five-fold ministries that includes teachers, pastors, evangelists and apostles and their purpose is to equip members to the work of the ministry and for the edifying of the body of Christ till we all come in the unity of faith, knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man and the fullness of Christ.

People, who are against prosperity need to revisit their Bible Scriptures for correct interpretation because God gave us time on earth to live happily and it was Jesus’s wish to bring heaven on earth when he said let thy Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven and give us our daily bread.

You are at the UZ for daily bread so you need to be taught how to pray and shun teachings that want you to remain poor and wait for heaven.

We heal the sick to enjoy on earth not allow them to die to get to heaven quickly.

In her closing remarks, Tariro Gwangwaba who was representing the Sociology students hailed Prophet Magaya describing him as a man of wisdom and anointed to change people’s lives.

She presented a token of appreciation and the students pleaded with their lecturer to allow Prophet Magaya pronounce a blessing on their lives before leaving the Great Hall.

Prophet Magaya thanked the students for their questions saying it helped him know what people think about him and having an opportunity to meet people who challenges him openly.

“I want to thank the lecturer for according me an opportunity to meet people who does not feel threatened to ask me burning questions.

“I learnt a lot from what they were asking me and God gave me grace to answer their burning questions considering that many of the students who were asking are not from my ministry.

“It gave me a chance to know what people say about me and I want to urge many with burning questions to come and meet me other than criticizing me in corridors neavo vanowana mharidzo nezita rangu vachitadza kubatsira vanhu vanengevauya kwavari,” said Prophet Magaya urging church leaders and people in authority to seriously help various students for the good of the nation.

H metro

By Own Correspondent- Matabeleland livestock farmers have appealed for assistance following a severe drought that depleted their grazing areas this farming season.

Farmers report that their livestock is left with no grazing land following a very dry spell.

The situation has resulted in farmers resorting to pen fattening which has been made very expensive by transport costs.

Sedgwick Farm partner, Vengai Runyowa spoke to the state media and said:

“It has been a very difficult year. We have to date only received cumulatively about 84 – 86mm of rainfall. We are battling in terms of our grazing land and water tables of our boreholes. Our major challenge now is grazing pastures.”

Other farmers who spoke to ZBC News lamented the increase in prices of commodities such as diesel since it affects the rearing livestock. Some farmers are contemplating undertaking cross-breeding to produce hybrid livestock that is simultaneously good at the market and drought resistant.

Government agencies have been called upon to act towards preserving the livestock which is fundamental both at rural and national levels-StateMedia

The opposition MDC Alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa, has said he is prepared to meet President Emmerson Mnangagwa provided a “mutually respected adjudicator, local or international, and preferable a former head of state” chairs the talks.

“I am ready to meet President Mnangagwa for a political dialogue that is needed in the country to help us to unlock the legitimacy crisis in the country, so that he can be accepted by everyone and the country can get the financial aid it needs,”Chamisa said.

“We need to sit down with President Mnangagwa representing Zanu PF and ourselves as MDC Alliance, and the meeting should be chaired by a mutually respected adjudicator, local or international, and preferable a former head of state.”

Chamisa said he was against the current scenario where “Mnangagwa is chairing the meeting and selecting the people he wants to discuss with”. This, he said, would not take the country forward.

President Mnangagwa briefed the leaders of the other political parties at the inaugural post-election dialogue in February on the need to work together for the betterment of the country.

“The talks that Mnangagwa is holding with the other 21 political parties is a ‘muppet show’ as the political parties don’t represent anyone,” Chamisa said.

“We need serious and genuine political talks with him. I represent a vibrant political party which has a high number of parliamentary seats, controlling many urban council seats, and our party had over 2.6 million votes in the July presidential election.”

In February, Chamisa snubbed the dialogue convened by Mnangagwa in the State House.

Zanu PF spokesperson, Simon Khaya- Moyo, said his party was ready to engage any political party to help move the country forward.

“The President is in a dialogue with other political parties and if the MDC Alliance has a change of heart, and wants to join the other political parties in the dialogue, it is acceptable as we have not refused to talk to them. But the MDC Alliance must not set terms and conditions for the discussions,” Moyo said.

Analysts say dialogue between the President and Chamisa will help address the deteriorating economic environment, which has seen prices of basic commodities trebling at a time when the salaries of the majority of workers in the country, especially those in the private sector, have not increased. — BusinessTimes

Statement By Mqondisi Moyo MRP President|Media reports of today the 2nd of May 2019 carried a story on Nelson Chamisa’s indication and willingness to assist Emmerson Mnangagwa to apologize to the people of Zimbabwe on Gukurahundi. Chamisa made that pledge while addressing a workers at a ZCTU May 1 celebration in Harare. The first anomaly is Chamisa’s deliberate omission of Matebeleland people as the victims, who deserve such an apology. He insinuates that Gukurahundi was an atrocity that was inflicted on the generality of Zimbabweans, while deliberately skating around the FACT that it was an ethnic onslaught.

It has always been a taboo for MDC members to condemn Zanu PF on Gukurahundi, because it has borrowed the same tribal lea from it. Chamisa perceives Gukurahundi as an impediment to political stability and progress, rather than a dillema and life hurdle for the victims. Any honest leader in Zimbabwe will appreciate that Gukurahundi did not affect the people of Zimbabwe, but the people of Matebeleland and part of the Midlands.

Chamisa is where he is today as a direct beneficiary of Gukurahundi. Mashonaland is where it is today as a result of Gukurahundi. Schools are a few kilometres apart in Mashonaland as a result of Gukurahundi. The civil service in Matebeleland employs people from only the Shona tribes, as a result of Gukurahundi. In a nutshell service delivery is tilted towards Mashonaland, as a result of Gukurahundi, hence Chamisa’s failure to identify Gukurahundi with Matebeleland people is shocking. Chamisa’s predecessor Morgan Tsvangirai, also bargained for power from Robert Mugabe by promising to forgive him on Gukurahundi on the event of him relinquishing power. All MDC leaders, including Chamisa must know that Gukurahundi is a genocide. The MDC attitude of turning a blind eye to issues of human rights and Justice is very regrettable.

In the elections of the 30th of July 2018, Chamisa shocked Bulawayo by pushing council and mayoral candidates of Shona ethnicity. Those who had been doubting the Code XXX as an MDC version of the tribal grand plan, were jolted to reality.

It is quite disturbing that Chamisa and his party never uttered even one word on Gukurahundi during their co-reign in the Government of National Unity, but only to bolt from the blue now with the offer of assisting Mnangagwa to apologize to the people of Zimbabwe. When will Chamisa and his party ever demand justice for the people of Matebeleland? Your theatrics of trying to trivialize and nationalise Gukurahundi for your political expediency will backfire on you. Please stop playing with Gukurahundi victims.

Matebeleland, until recently has always been a strong support base for the MDC party, it is hence worrying when Chamisa positions himself to assisting Mnangagwa instead of the victims of Gukurahundi. Nelson Chamisa, as a law graduate knows that apology is not JUSTICE. Anyone who undermines the intelligence of the people of Matebeleland, does that in his own peril.

The truth is that Gukurahundi was and still is an ethnic genocide.
We are watching you Chamisa. Every dog has its day.

I put it to you Nelson Chamisa that you are born of a gukurahundist and you are just shedding crocodile tears on our innocent Mthwakazi people.

For Peace and Justice in Our Lifetime.

Sisonke Sibambene SinguMthwakazi Sizakulungisa.

Mqondisi Moyo
MRP President

By Own Correspondent- The Namibian First lady, Monica Geingos has intervened to resolve sexual abuse cases which implicate a Zimbabwean student, Kudakwashe Gonzo, studying at the University of Namibia (UNAM).

Gonzo is accused of having sexually abused up to nine female students at the institution.

It is alleged Gonzo would fondle the girls’ private parts without their consent and would proceed to force himself on them.

The abuses were disclosed after one of Gonzo’s victims shared her experiences with her friends. A series of WhatsApp and Instagram messages narrating the abuses were later leaked by other victims.

The Namibian first lady has since pledged to assist the victims to get justice.

Gonzo’s actions have also been castigated by the Student Representative Council at the Higher learning institution. The Council has also pledged to launch an investigation into the matter with the assistance of the Office of the Dean of Students.-263Chat

By Own Correspondent- Zanu-PF member and Manicaland provincial chairman Michael Madiro has said that party members were free to attend the Tsvangirai memorial service to be held in Buhera.

Madiro said that matters of culture transcend political party boundaries. He said:

Matters of culture and tradition cannot be politicised. This is not a matter which we can talk about on political party grounds. As Africans, as Zimbabweans, we are black people and according to our traditions, a memorial service can never be politicised.

I am of the view that anyone who is willing to attend the memorial service is free to go there, whether he is a Zanu-PF member or not. It cannot be said to be an institutional choice to go there, but it should be one’s choice to do so.

These sentiments are also shared by the Tsvangirai family which has indicated that it has since sent invitation letters to every stakeholder in spite of party affiliations.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- President Mnangagwa has revealed that the government will quickly resolve concerns and grievances raised by 13 chiefs in Chipinge and Chimanimani whose communities were ravaged by Cyclone Idai.

President Mnangagwa said that the need to address the needs of the people following cyclone Idai made the government to ‘jump’ traditional leaders. Mnangagwa said:

We have asked for forgiveness and we have been forgiven. Our chiefs have registered a lot of grievances which we will act on in order to bring about rural industrialisation to the two districts.

It is alleged that president Mnangagwa met the traditional leaders to persuade them on the intended eviction of residents following cyclone Idai. Reports suggest that residents are refusing to leave their traditional lands arguing that their ancestors are buried in the area. It is also believed that they are citing their farming lands as a major hindrance to the eviction.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- Government is strengthening its policies and resource support through the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP) to stabilise prices and cushion workers from businesses bent on profiteering, a Cabinet minister has said.

In a statement to mark Workers’ Day yesterday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Sekai Nzenza said unjustified price hikes were hindering Zimbabwe’s transitional journey under the Second Republic.

Government, business and labour, she said, needed each other to solve economic challenges confronting the nation.

Minister Nzenza said the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF) Bill, which seeks to provide a platform for consultations on socio-economic issues between the Government, business and labour, was now before Parliament.

The Bill is among laws enunciated by President Mnangagwa when he delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA) during the official opening of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament last year.

On price hikes, Minister Nzenza said: “As we embark on this transitional journey, we call upon business to exercise restraint on raising prices. The price hikes are hurting. This is why the President has launched the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP) which has five key pillars.

“No one wins as the workers revert back to business to ask for more and we eventually get locked in a vicious cycle of price and salary hikes. However, as tripartite partners, we believe that caring for our workers, treating them fairly and helping them to grow in their jobs is a productive arrangement given that there is evidence that caring for human capital drives enterprise and economic growth.

“On the part of Government, we will strengthen policy and resource support for prices stabilisation. In that regard, I wish to state that the mantra ‘Zimbabwe is open for business and the ease of doing business initiatives are underpinned by an unshakable resolve to ensure that decent work is attained in all the jobs that we envisage to create.”

Minister Nzenza said unity was key in finding solutions to challenges facing the country.

“The resolution of the socio-economic challenges we currently face require close cooperation as never before,” she said.

She said Zimbabwe remained committed to fulfilling, in practice and legislation, the principles of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) which it ratified.

As such, Minister Nzenza said, Government was working on the TNF.

“We believe that this social dialogue platform affords the social partners a genuine opportunity to exchange ideas that can facilitate the growth of the economy, through greater investment, productivity and innovation,” she said.

“I hope that the August House will pass the TNF Bill when it resumes its business this month. The Bill, which is before Parliament at the second reading stage, will provide the necessary legislative framework to ensure greater accountability effectiveness in the work of the TNF.

“Accordingly, the TNF will emerge as a strong and vibrant institution capable of greater contribution to the development of the country.”

The functions of the forum include consulting and negotiating over social and economic issues and submitting recommendations to Cabinet.

It will negotiate a social contract as and when necessary and foster cooperation of the tripartite constituents and consult other key stakeholders and contribute to the formulation and implementation of social and economic policies.

The TNF will also follow up and monitor the implementation of agreements.

Minister Nzenza said “We underline that our principal role as Government will remain that of creating an enabling policy and legal environment for social partners to enjoy their rights and establish sustainable enterprises.

“Government, therefore, remains committed to collaborating with business and labour to ensure that workers are protected and that business thrives.

“In recognition of the foregoing, Government remains seized with the goal of stabilising and growing our economy while also ensuring labour market stability in the country through continuous dialogue aimed at modernising and harmonising our labour laws so that they equitably respond to the needs of workers and employers.”-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- The permanent secretary for Local Government Rural and Urban Development George Magosvongwe has thrown the GMB Pension Fund CEO Taona Munzvandi under the bus in an ongoing $2 million fraud trial saying that as the chief executive he was supposed to follow due process in the acquisition of Romany Farm.

Magosvongwe is the chairman of the GMB Pension Fund that Taona Munzvandi leads as CEO.

Munzvandi is being co-charged with Korbs Kobie Mutandiro and Basilio Sandamu of Romant Farm Pvt Ltd where it is alleged that the trio connived to defraud the GMB pension fund.

Prosecuting Micheal Reza is further alleging that Munzvandi and Mutandiro entered into an agreement-of-sale of the said farm to the GMB Pension Fund for $2.5 million knowing that the farm had been acquired by the State.

Magosvongwe told the court that sometime in 2013, he was notified by Munzvandi that Romany supposedly a private enterprise was on sale as they needed a farm for housing project for the fund’s employees.

“The pension fund was looking for land for a housing project for its employees and for general economic investment, we had bought Crowhill farm and Charlotte’s Brooke farm too so I advised him to formally approach the board and present the proposal of a purchase by the fund.

“He convened a legal meeting of the board for purposes of considering purchase and when the board was made aware, and against the backdrop of similar purchases, a resolution was passed for the CEO to pursue the possible investment.

“Due diligence was to be exercised, appropriate procedures known to him had to be followed and in any case, the board couldn’t authorise the transaction that was not procedural without conjecture, we stood to be advised by him because it was his job,” said Magosvongwe.

The perm sec further told the court that on April 30 2013, the same day the board met, Munzvandi and Mutandiro met and proceeded to sign an MOU and agreement of sale in which the purported offer and acceptance was concluded at $2.5 million.

“As a non-executive board, we didn’t pursue the transaction but I asked him to check with the deeds office for endorsements that may have affected Romany Farm and he said the deeds were clean so it was within his authority to proceed with the sale.

“After some time we inquired as to how the transaction has proceeded and he said there was a small technicality yet in actual fact he had failed to obtain a certificate of no present interest from the state, meaning the State owned the land so it couldn’t be sold as alleged,” said Magosvongwe.

He further told the court that Mutandiro received a deposit and became evasive.

By Own Correspondent- Auxillia Mnangagwa, the Zimbabwean first lady, has criticised the decision by the National Pharmaceutical Company (NatPharm) to withhold medicines whilst clinics around the country are said to be out of stock.

After touring NatPharm on Thursday (today), the first lady fumed:

We have had of a leakage medicines, how did that happen? Why are there such leakages? Are you aware that people are suffering out there? Why is it that clinics are complaining that there is no medicine yet you have boxes piled here, what are the donors going to say, why are all these boxes stocked? I went to Mashonaland Central and found some pharmacies empty. The situation on the ground is untenable and I want to understand where medicines are going, it is theft.

NatPharm is alleged to have said that it distributes medicine to clinics as per request. However, a ZBC News article reports that local clinics in Harare showed otherwise. It suggests that some clinics last received medicine from NatPharm in February.

ZBC News reports that some clinics visited were no longer with medicines against high demand from citizens

By Staff Reporter- President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “soft coup” has reportedly backfired amid indications that all is not well within Zanu Pf’s backyard.

This follows traditional leaders indicating that the country’s current leader is not recognised in the spiritual realms of the country.

Mnangagwa, whose ascendancy to the presidency was through a “soft coup” is reportedly seeking “endorsement” from the traditional leaders including the country’s “svikiros” who are reportedly still recognising deposed leader Robert Mugabe as the country’s leader.

Mnangagwa Wednesday was in Chipinge where he met traditional leaders from Manicaland including the “svikiros”.

The development reported of President Emmerson Mnangagwa flying to Chipinge was confirmed by the Labour Minister Sekai Nzenza.

Mnangagwa traveled to Chipinge because local chiefs are saying the way he took over power was not done following due process traditionally in November 2017.

Insiders have told ZimEye Mnangagwa is meeting former president Mugabe’s top female n’anga who is revered since Chimurenga war times.

Addressing journalists during her Labour Day speech, Nzenza hinted on the development saying,

“I am on my way to Chipinge. We are going to be meeting with the chiefs tomorrow (today), so we will be meeting a number of people affected by the cyclone, and especially some of the most vulnerable who lost their parents during the cyclone.”

Sources inside government said she was not able to comment on this because there will be a religious backlash considering that the country is a Christian nation. “Hazvitaurike kuti leader wenyu arikuita zvechinyakarae zviri so open.”meaning it is something which can not be openly said that your leader is engaging in traditional rituals openly.

Chipinge is rife with superstition and recently a local nearby headman, speaking with ZimEye alleged that Christians were the ones who caused the cyclone Idai when they (according to his allegations), stole sacred pots belonging to his father.

Farai Dziva|Opposition party LEAD president, Linda Masarira, has declared that Emmerson Mnangagwa must arrest Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor John Mangudya as a matter of urgency.

Masarira accused Mangudya of being corrupt.

“Why are rogue and corrupt elements like John Mangudya still walking scot-free yet they are feeding the black market with plenty of money that is non-existent?

Why is your government entertaining economic sabotage? Enough is enough!

Desperate situations call for drastic measures. OPC knows all government officials trading on the black market, who are making Zimbabweans miserable by pushing rates up willy nilly when they have targets to meet. There is no one more Zimbabwean than the other.

Failure to deal with all corrupt elements in your government will force us, citizens, to ensure justice for every Zimbabwean. We have been abused for too long and we are now tired. Zimbabwe comes first, now is the time to fix Zimbabwe. Totangira pakukanda mbavha mujeri,” declared Masarira.

Farai Dziva|Norton MP Temba Mliswa has vowed to “leave no stone unturned” in his quest to ensure there is justice for workers who are being exploited by a Chinese company.

“I’ll certainly write to @edmnangagwa highlighting the issues so that when he comes things must be in order.

Whilst I wasn’t there, my office bearers attended on my behalf and reported that the Govt wants to overprotect the Chinese at the expense of the people, NO WAY,” declared Mliswa.

“@edmnangagwa will hear the workers don’t have good working conditions, the Chinese have gone against everything as agreed
they’re engaging people out of Norton. Whilst the development looks good and is a great step for Norton, it mustn’t be at people’s expense,” he added.

Farai Dziva| A Zimbabwean opposition leader has indicated that a Government of National Unity is not conducive for the country.

United African National Council (UANC) Gwinyai Muzorewa has said an inclusive government will only authenticate the Emmerson Mnangagwa regime.

Gwinyai is the younger brother to the late nationalist Bishop Abel Tendekai Muzorewa.

” The State House dialogue initiated by Emmerson Mnangagwa is not a genuine exercise,” said Muzorewa.

“This national dialogue is not a genuine exercise. I called this a political filibuster because it is actually consistent with Mnangagwa’s “philosophy” that says munongovukura tichingotonga (you will continue barking while we rule you).

How can Zanu PF that created and continues to fuel the crisis preside over the dialogue? Zanu PF is the problem. The system does not have the moral capacity to moderate or host the dialogue.

As a party, we cannot participate in such an exercise because the government is merely using these men and women who wish they were ruling, but are not, to “pacify” the masses.
This crisis had been brewing for a couple of decades until Zanu PF staged a coup in November 2017. At that time, we should have had the dialogue. The generals would have said: “We have removed (former President Robert) Mugabe, now you the national leaders how shall we elect a good leader?” Of course, that did not happen,” Muzorewa told Newsday.

By Own Correspondent- In response to opposition MDC leader Nelson Chamisa’s promised series of vibrant demonstrations over the state of affairs, ZANU-PF party has issued a fierce warning indicating that they will unleash the military on civilians.

VIDEO LOADING BELOW…

ZANU-PF spokesperson Simon Khaya-Moyo warned that security services will be alert to deal with any mayhem and anarchy. He also attributed the current state of affairs to sanctions which he said were brought by the MDC.

Read the full statement below:

VIDEO LOADING BELOW…

Farai Dziva|The MDC A has accused the Emmerson Mnangagwa administration of “taxing workers to death.”

In a statement released on Workers Day MDC A spokesperson Jacob Mafume said: ” We have witnessed a drastic shift to labour market flexibility.

A Labour Amendment Act was enacted and rendered the worker legally disposable.

Workers were retrenched without benefits, paid a paltry three months notice package plus two weeks wages for every year served.

Preceding that period, pensions to the tune of US$6 billion had been lost due to Zanu PF mismanagement of the economy, according to the Justice Commission report.

Workers have been declared enemies beyond reconciliation, the State has conflated with Capital. Labour rights are curtailed, unions are criminalised and their leaders are thrown in the same jail cells with bank robbers and rapists.

The cost of living has gone beyond the reach of the working people, they cannot buy bread, and wage value has been eroded. They are taxed to death.”

Farai Dziva|Opposition party LEAD president, Linda Masarira, has declared that Emmerson Mnangagwa must arrest Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor John Mangudya as a matter of urgency.

Masarira accused Mangudya of being corrupt.

“Why are rogue and corrupt elements like John Mangudya still walking scot-free yet they are feeding the black market with plenty of money that is non-existent?

Why is your government entertaining economic sabotage? Enough is enough!

Desperate situations call for drastic measures. OPC knows all government officials trading on the black market, who are making Zimbabweans miserable by pushing rates up willy nilly when they have targets to meet. There is no one more Zimbabwean than the other.

Failure to deal with all corrupt elements in your government will force us, citizens, to ensure justice for every Zimbabwean. We have been abused for too long and we are now tired. Zimbabwe comes first, now is the time to fix Zimbabwe. Totangira pakukanda mbavha mujeri,” declared Masarira.

Farai Dziva| A Zimbabwean opposition leader has indicated that a Government of National Unity is not conducive for the country.

United African National Council (UANC) Gwinyai Muzorewa has said an inclusive government will only authenticate the Emmerson Mnangagwa regime.

Gwinyai is the younger brother to the late nationalist Bishop Abel Tendekai Muzorewa.

” The State House dialogue initiated by Emmerson Mnangagwa is not a genuine exercise,” said Muzorewa.

“This national dialogue is not a genuine exercise. I called this a political filibuster because it is actually consistent with Mnangagwa’s “philosophy” that says munongovukura tichingotonga (you will continue barking while we rule you).

How can Zanu PF that created and continues to fuel the crisis preside over the dialogue? Zanu PF is the problem. The system does not have the moral capacity to moderate or host the dialogue.

As a party, we cannot participate in such an exercise because the government is merely using these men and women who wish they were ruling, but are not, to “pacify” the masses.
This crisis had been brewing for a couple of decades until Zanu PF staged a coup in November 2017. At that time, we should have had the dialogue. The generals would have said: “We have removed (former President Robert) Mugabe, now you the national leaders how shall we elect a good leader?” Of course, that did not happen,” Muzorewa told Newsday.

Farai Dziva|Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Sekai Nzenza has attacked business operators for hiking prices of basic commodities unnecessarily.

On Wednesday Nzenza called upon business to exercise restraint on raising prices of goods and services.

“As we embark on this transitional journey, we call upon business to exercise restraint on raising prices.

The price hikes are hurting.This is why the President has launched the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP) which has five key pillars.
No one wins as the workers revert back to business to ask for more and we eventually get locked in a vicious cycle of price and salary hikes.

However, as tripartite partners, we believe that caring for our workers, treating them fairly and helping them to grow in their jobs is a productive arrangement given that there is evidence that caring for human capital drives enterprise,”she said in her Workers’ Day message.

By Own Correspondent- The deputy Minister of Information, Energy Mutodi has threatened to invite MTN, South African Telecommunications giant, following an increase in the prices of data bouquets by Econet Wireless recently.

Posting via his Twitter account, Mutodi said:

Econet data bundle prices are obscene given it’s huge market share & increased social media usage.

This post attracted a chain of responses from users who felt that Mutodi was misinformed on the issue. One user, @nangatidza responded:

ko Netone, do we charge according to market share or the cost structure, dzokera unoimba

Mutodi responded saying that Netone had fewer customers and its bundles have very low demand. He also said that he was expecting Econet to capitalise on the economies of scale and charge less for bundles at the same time targeting volumes which they already have.

He said:

Netone has fewer customers and its bundles have very low demand. For Econet I was expecting the company directors to capitalize on the economies of scale and charge less for bundles but targeting volumes which they already have. We don’t want to be tempted to invite MTN.

Whilst others felt that inviting MTN would mean increased employment opportunities, more investment, cheaper data due to competition, others think authorities must not bother as the invitation would be turned down. They mentioned a lack of respect for property rights, currency issues, lack of guarantee on repatriation of invested capital, policy inconsistency, a possibility of internet closure, among others, as hindrances to investment.

Farai Dziva|Political analyst Jeffryson Chitando has said Zanu PF has completely sidelined real war veterans.

See Chitando’ s statement below:

The Zanu PF honchos have enriched themselves while real ex-combatants are starving.

The Zanu PF leaders are uncaring and they have failed to fulfil the promises they made during the war.

The paltry benefits (eroded by inflation)they are receiving have become a tool of oppression and dependence as the leaders in Zanu PF constantly threaten to withdraw the allowances if former freedom fighters question the diversion from the values of the liberation struggle.

Zimbabweans must fight for the liberation of the War vets from the yoke of oppression.

The MDC A understands the plight of the oppressed War vets and will readdress the same.

By Own Correspondent- Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital medical superintendent Collet Mawire has justified the distribution of expired antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs.

Mawire indicated that the Hospital distributed tablets which had a June 2018 expiry date following the green light from Medicine Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) which tested the drugs and gave them another year. Mawire explained:

On the issue of ART tablets, we were given the go-ahead to distribute them following some tests after the expiry date. So it is above board, it is in order.

Wensilus Nyamayaro, provincial medical director said the procedure was that health institutions should stop distributing either tablets or medicine on the day of expiry. They also have to send samples to MCAZ which will advise whether to dispose or to continue using them for a subscribed time.

Some patients on the ART programme have expressed that the move kills trust that existed between them and the health service provider. They also said it has implications on their recovery as the mind which is critical for the process is being tampered with.-Newsday

Farai Dziva|Results of a recent survey have postulated that Zimbabwe has the lowest data charges in the Southern region.

This comes after the hiking of data tariffs by Econet Wireless and NetOne.

According to Communication Regulators Association of Southern Africa the cost of mobile data in Zimbabwe is the lowest in the region in US-dollar terms.

The research conducted by the Communication Regulators Association of Southern Africa shows Botswana recording the highest data tariffs per megabyte charging US$93, followed by Eswatini charging US$56 per 1000MB while Zimbabwe charges on average of US$20
per 1000MB.

The four leading telecommunications companies in Zimbabwe, namely, Econet, NetOne, Telecel and TelOne recently reviewed up tariffs of their internet bundles packages.

By Own Correspondent- Police in Bulawayo have arrested two men suspected to be part of a gang that shot, robbed and assaulted residents in Tshabalala and Nkulumane suburbs last weekend.

The gang is said to be on the police wanted list for armed robberies countrywide and for shooting at an illegal forex dealer popularly known as usiphatheleni’s car in Pumula South suburb.

Christopher Dande and Ronald Chigwida were reportedly arrested in Bulawayo on Monday in connection with a spate of armed robbery cases.

Chigwida was admitted to the United Bulawayo Hospitals after he was attacked by police dogs while attempting to flee from detectives in Pumula South suburb.

Dande who runs a vending stall in Cowdray Park suburb, was arrested at his vending stall.

A source told the news crew that Chigwida is also on the police wanted list in Harare and Gweru for armed robbery.

Police could not be reached for a comment yesterday.

The duo is suspected to have been part of a ten man gang that left an 88-year-old man with a broken collar bone and multiple fractures after attacking him with axes and iron bars, demanding cash in Nkulumane 12 suburb in an abortive robbery.

The incident happened on Saturday at around 7PM. Tedious Dibula was rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital after the suspects took turns to batter him when they failed to find cash at his house.

The assailants left Dibula for dead with a pile of 50kg fertiliser bags and planks heaped on his back.

On two separate occasions reported on Friday, the same gang is suspected to have attacked two businessmen from Tshabalala suburb stealing over US$1 500 from both scenes.

Henry Gumbo (32) who runs a butchery in Sizinda suburb was driving home on Friday at about 8.30PM when the robbers pounced on him a few metres away from his home.

The robbers shot him thrice and robbed him of R3 000, RTGS$2 000 and US$300.

The gang is suspected to have earlier the same day raided another local businessman from the same suburb, Walter Dhobha and his family at around 3AM and got away with RTGS $800, R600 and US$20.

Dhobha who lives just over a kilometre from the Gumbos’ house said the armed robbers broke into his bedroom through the window when he was sleeping with his wife and tied his hands and legs before covering his face with a cloth.

He said the robbers who had a gun, severely assaulted his wife while demanding money.

A source who spoke to the Chronicle on condition of anonymity said on April 9, Chigwida and two of his accomplices broke into a house in Harare armed with a pistol and stole jewellery, a 32 inch television set, a cell phone and a car that was later recovered.

The source said the firearm was recovered from Chigwidi’s accomplices in Gweru.

In March, the gang is suspected to have robbed a farm in Nyamandlovu, where they got away with money and other valuables.

The gang took US$15 000, R140 000, RTGS10 000, jewellery, two guns and two cell phones, from the Nyamandlovu farm victims, the sources said.-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent- University of Zimbabwe students had an opportunity to grill Prophetic Healing and Deliverance founder, Prophet Walter Magaya in a question and answer session at the campus’ Great Hall on Tuesday.

Prophet Magaya was introduced to the sociology and political science students as “doctor and prophet” by Sociology lecturer, Dr Watch Ruparanganda Chinhenga.

Among the students’ burning questions were on the controversial Aguma drug, use of anointing oil, wearing of wrist bands and bracelets, prosperity gospel, the emergence of self-styled prophets, one on one, sponsoring soccer and church position on political leaders.

Below are some of the exchanges during the question and answer sessions:

POLITICS

QUESTION: What is the church’s position especially prophets on political leaders given that people feel some are not from God and how do we know that they (politicians) are chosen by God considering that they are elected through votes.

ANSWER: It is the mandate of all church leaders to pray for leaders currently in positions. The Bible is clear on that issue and it does not say we have to pray and honour former leaders or aspiring leaders but those on positions.

Church leaders who encourage members to revolt against leaders in positions are not only causing people to suffer but fighting God, who allows anyone he or she wants to rule.

These leaders are chosen by God for a specific purpose. Each one is called to do a specific task and we have to respect that.

No matter elections are carried, some who may have a spirit against the one who is wanted by God fail to vote for various reasons to allow the one they do not want to win so the Holy Spirit helps much in controlling to fulfil God’s plan. That is why David refused to kill Soul.

All Prophets are different in their calling so political leaders are called to various tasks God wants that nation to be led so be guided accordingly and stop imposing leaders you think suit you or you think are the best to rule when their time has not arrived.

At the fullness of time, God sent his son, so our God is of time and seasons. Those who are failing to move on with their business expecting to do it when the one they want is ruling will die before fending for their children and I urge pastors to teach people these things for the good of the nation and read on Romans chapter 13.

AGUMA

Q: Why did you think of using medicine when you introduced Aguma instead of laying hands on sick people since you are a prophet? Also, is this allowed by God and was this accepted internationally since you have a bigger following?

A: Christ Jesus used various ways in healing the sick and among them was his saliva in healing the blind, in the Old Testament Mwari akatoudza muporofita kuti ashandise muti kuisa pamamota munhu akatopora.

I am a human being and get tired that I cannot lay hands on everyone including those in various countries.

What we all agree is that people are sick and some are dying every day due to cancer or HIV and Aids that is why God showed me the plant to use medicine that reaches and be accepted in various countries.

To be sure with the medicine I engaged the learned in that area, who are doctors from India and they approved it. Only that it was unfortunate it was not accepted in my mother country but some of the countries are ever calling me to distribute it in their countries.

We urge people to visit medical doctors before and after visiting Prophets for healing and I want to believe this is what is being encouraged everywhere.

The use of anointing oil and water is not only done by us but Catholics, where I started, use them as well kune chizorwa chevarwere nemvura sande inoiswa pahuma paunopinda mukereke saka Mwari anotendera kuti miti, mvura nezvimwe zvaakasika zvishandiswe pakubatsira ruzhinji.

Mwari anoti ndichavawandichava so he uses anything anytime and instructs a Prophet to do anything depending on situation or people around to the glorification of His name.

Mwari mukuru kupfuura ruzivo rwemunhu uye hatimupedze kanakumuita wedu he is the mighty God who has no beginning or end and cannot be understood by our human minds.

I wish you students put your trust in Him first and add knowledge because you can be the best students before graduation if God does not allow you to live especially those who do not obey their parents.

SOCCER

Q: Why are you promoting soccer instead of concentrating on taking people to Christ and preach about heaven?

A: I do not promote soccer only but many sporting disciplines that includes rugby, volleyball, tennis and many more.

By promoting sport I fight the spirit yekuti kubhora kunoitwa zvemishonga saka ndinovavarira kubvisa vatambi vedu paneizvozvo vovimba nesimba raMwari through sport and with that I have a number of soccer players who turned to God and I have witnessed many attending various churches so we use all ways to win people to Christ.

Apart from sport I as well invite sungura and dancehall musicians at our services to perform for few minutes and other hours are for the gospel that deliver many including those abusing drugs to be transformed by hearing the word of life.

It is important for students to analyse everything before they are quick to give a judgment on anything since most students, who judge books by their covers, miss a lot in their studies.

Many who judge me are never at my services but are at the forefront to criticize us instead of visiting us and get the truth.

I do not go by or change my attitude or calling based on what people say because at the end of the day, they too, are judging me from their perspective.

I would rather by myself and let people accept me for what I am than be somebody who I am not, just because I want people’s approval.

PROSPERITY

Q: Why is it that most emerging prophets are teaching prosperity, do you personally believe in prosperity and how do I know true Prophets?

A: I personally believe in prosperity and some of the books I am donating to you today were bought by my 10-year old son.

At 10 he is already an entrepreneur and this is what I expect most of you to do as students with capabilities of being creative, masters of their destiny, think tanks of nation-building and that alone is not done by someone who does not believe in prosperity.

God gave us resources to use and benefit other nations as well and if you are a University student who wants to remain poor, you have no reason of wasting your parents’ money studying to keep them poor and wait to go to heaven.

If prophets are giving you ideas on how to prosper, they are teaching you good news because Jesus gave food to those who were hungry and gave clothes to the naked and we must allow you to drive good cars to reach far and that alone is not done by poor people.

The mentality of criticizing things that help you has failed many in their careers and Prophets who has no answers to people’s problems are not good.

Emerging prophets are an opportunity to many who hate Prophet Magaya and few others to choose the one they want to follow for the good of their souls and the nation at large.

As for true prophets, let me tell you that you must have a spirit of discerning or an instinct that tells you that you are being fooled but if you do not have this instinct it is more dangerous that there is need to check if you are not abusing drugs or being used by the devil in one way or the other.

Everyone can prophesy including women and they are called prophetess because of their ability to produce and multiply but prophesying does not make you a Prophet.

A Prophet and prophesying are different. You can be able to see where you are heading to and make plans and it is one reason you are studying sociology because you are aiming to fulfil your dreams or what you saw in the spirit.

As for Prophets they are given to church by God under five-fold ministries that include teachers, pastors, evangelists and apostles and their purpose is to equip members to the work of the ministry and for the edifying of the body of Christ till we all come in the unity of faith, knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man and the fullness of Christ.

People, who are against prosperity need to revisit their Bible Scriptures for correct interpretation because God gave us time on earth to live happily and it was Jesus’s wish to bring heaven on earth when he said let thy Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven and give us our daily bread.

You are at the UZ for daily bread so you need to be taught how to pray and shun teachings that want you to remain poor and wait for heaven.

We heal the sick to enjoy on earth not allow them to die to get to heaven quickly.

In her closing remarks, Tariro Gwangwaba who was representing the Sociology students hailed Prophet Magaya describing him as a man of wisdom and anointed to change people’s lives.

She presented a token of appreciation and the students pleaded with their lecturer to allow Prophet Magaya pronounce a blessing on their lives before leaving the Great Hall.

Prophet Magaya thanked the students for their questions saying it helped him know what people think about him and having an opportunity to meet people who challenges him openly.

“I want to thank the lecturer for according me an opportunity to meet people who does not feel threatened to ask me burning questions.

“I learnt a lot from what they were asking me and God gave me grace to answer their burning questions considering that many of the students who were asking are not from my ministry.

“It gave me a chance to know what people say about me and I want to urge many with burning questions to come and meet me other than criticizing me in corridors neavo vanowana mharidzo nezita rangu vachitadza kubatsira vanhu vanengevauya kwavari,” said Prophet Magaya urging church leaders and people in authority to seriously help various students for the good of the nation.-StateMedia

President @edmnangagwa will tommorow, 3 May 2019, lead the National Clean Up Programme at Zengeza 3 Shopping Centre in Chitungwiza.

— Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) May 2, 2019

He shud clean up the economy first

— Didier ?? (@DidierNassa711) May 2, 2019

atopedza kun'anga?

— Munashe weMadrid ?? (@Munashe_mb) May 2, 2019

I hope wachafamba ne road iyo. That road is in sorry state

— Wezhara Munzara (@taurai79) May 2, 2019

By Own Correspondent- A 26 year old man from Insiza was recently arrested at a roadblock for allegedly stealing seven goats from two women.

Andrew Nkomo appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Franklin Mkhwananzi who remanded him in custody to May 10 for trial, he pleaded not guilty to stock theft.

Prosecuting, Mufaro Mageza said on March 30 this year at around 11.30PM, Nkomo went to Veronica Nleya’s homestead and allegedly stole one goat, slaughtered it and went away unnoticed.

The court heard that footprints were seen at the scene leading to his homestead.

“On the period extending from April 5 to April 6 this year, Nkomo stole another goat from Ms Nleya, slaughtered it and went away unnoticed with the carcass but leaving the head, offals and hide at the scene,” said Mageza.

The court heard that Nkomo stole two more goats from Nleya on April 7 and another one on April 16.

“On April 10 Nkomo allegedly stole two goats from Apolonia Ndiweni (84) of Insuza. He slaughtered them and went away unnoticed.

“Police laid an ambush at the two complainants’ homesteads for some days anticipating that Nkomo would once more come to steal. When he appeared at Ndiweni’s goat pen on April 16, the police ambushed him but he managed to escape,” he said.

“The next day Nkomo allegedly stole from Mhlalelwa Mkhwananzi after he left for work leaving no one at his homestead.

Nkomo went to Mkhwananzi’s homestead and broke the padlock, gained entry into his bedroom, stole a black bag, a comforter and went away.”

On the same day, Nkomo was arrested at a roadblock and he was found with some of the property he had stolen from Mkhwananzi.

By Own Correspondent- Opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has argued that the bad law is to blame for the retrenchments that followed the Zuva Petroleum Case Supreme Court ruling of 2015.

He was responding to a twitter post which reminded him of his role in the case that saw over 20 000 employees retrenched.

Chamisa was part of the legal team that represented the employer and won the case against workers. He was since then blamed for being anti-labor.

Posting via his Twitter handle, Chamisa lamented the unemployment rate in Zimbabwe.

He said:

Labour Day in Zimbabwe… Many are either out of work or without work, almost hopeless and jobless. Only change can make things happen.Today is the day dedicated to all those who make efforts and never give up. Workers united will never be defeated. I wish I could say happy Workers Day.

The above message attracted various responses. Others thanked him, but, some reminded him of his role in the Zuva case.

One of Chamisa’s followers who uses the handle “Rozvi State” said:

“Lest we forget a thousand who lost their jobs without compensation after the Zuva case.”

Chamisa responded saying:

“Any loss of a job is wrong and tragic. A wrong law does not necessarily make the lawyer who identifies it wrong and bad.”-AllAfrica

By Own Correspondent- Below is the discussion submission by British MP Helen Goodman concerning the crackdown by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government on its citizens.

Said Goodman, who is also the Shadow Minister (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs) 6:37 pm, 29th April 2019.

The hon. Gentleman makes an excellent point. There has been a brutal crackdown on protests, with 2,354 violations of human rights, including 17 deaths and 17 rapes. I hope that the Minister will take that into account and tell us what precisely the Government will do to achieve change. I also want to know whether the Government’s policy on sanctions is being co-ordinated with the policy being run by the Department for International Development to tackle the drought. Obviously, sanctions can be tricky when they are against a country delivering aid, as knowing which transactions can pass through and which cannot can be complicated.

I do not know whether, as well as discussing the sanctions with the European Union, the Minister has been co-ordinating with the African Union. The current position is that Zimbabwe will not be allowed to rejoin the Commonwealth until it improves its human rights record, but will the Minister please tell us the co-ordination mechanism with the African Union?

That brings me to my final general point, which I also raised in our last debate on sanctions. How will we co-ordinate with the European Union after we have left? Everybody in this House fully understands that just one country’s sanctions cannot be effective. This only works when we have co-ordination internationally. Sometimes that co-ordination is at the UN level and sometimes, as in the case of these regimes, it is at the European level, but the Minister has not as yet been able to tell us what co-ordination mechanisms the Government are planning post Brexit. It would be interesting to know from him what he envisages, both in the scenario of leaving with a deal and in the case of leaving without a deal.

By Own Correspondent- Government has identified land to relocate people who were displaced by Cyclone Idai and those who might still be in areas prone to natural disasters, President Mnangagwa has said.

He was speaking in Mutare after a briefing with the provincial Department of Civil Protection officials yesterday.

The President is here to meet 13 chiefs from Chimanimani and Chipinge, and he said he will consult them before the relocation of their people to other areas.

“I am grateful for the commitment and perseverance that has been exhibited towards restoring disrupted lives of our communities which were affected by Cyclone Idai,” he said.

“I am advised that land has been identified for people who lost their homes to be moved elsewhere, where it is safe and not prone to natural disasters such as cyclones.

“Government is mobilising resources to construct houses for them. The private sector has also pledged to support this initiative.”

President Mnangagwa said the meeting with chiefs was a way of atoning for not consulting with them on various issues that might have arisen in response to the disaster.

“We have also come back to meet with traditional leaders in Chimanimani and Chipinge.

“As the leadership, we realised that when the disaster occurred, we all focused on helping those affected.

“We proceeded to bury the dead where need-be and remove those whom we considered to be in unsafe areas. We also planned to move people to other places with the will to mitigate any further attacks from cyclones.

“But in doing this, we overlooked the need to inform the chiefs that this is what we are doing. We are moving people from places that they have

traditionally belonged, where their ancestors are. We should make sure we follow tradition. We should not trample on people’s traditions.”

President Mnangagwa said he would also hold meetings with traditional leaders from Masvingo and Mashonaland East whose areas were affected by the cyclone.

He encouraged those involved in rehabilitation works in the affected areas to remain resolute to ensure that normalcy returns as soon as possible.

“We are not through yet; we still have a lot of work to do,” said President Mnangagwa. “The task remains to continue to rebuild schools, bridges, hospitals and dams. Our people across the board continue to give moral and material support in an endeavour to restore normalcy, not only to Manicaland, but to Masvingo as well as Mashonaland East.”

President Mnangagwa commended corporates and non-governmental organisations that had pledged to assist in the reconstruction of various infrastructure in the disaster-hit areas.

“We want to see all children in schools when the second term begins,” he said. “Winter is coming, we don’t want any families to be in the open. We have enough tents for everyone. No family should suffer the cold outside.”

President Mnangagwa said the Ministry of Home Affairs would provide identity documents to all those who had lost them.

“We have people who lost all identification, medical records and medications,” he said. “This should be addressed. People should be grouped in their communities and we will have the Ministry of Home Affairs come to them. They should get these documents free of charge.”

Cyclone Idai devastated areas in Chimanimani and Chipinge in Manicaland and some in Masvingo and Mashonaland East in March, leaving hundreds dead and hundreds of others missing.

The cyclone destroyed infrastructure like roads, bridges, homes, schools and other institutions in the affected areas, resulting in the survivors being left stranded.

YWORKERS’ unions have bemoaned the plethora of challenges faced by employees, whose stagnant salaries have been eroded by runaway inflation, amid incessant price hikes, flouting of labour laws and sexual harassment at workplaces.

Speaking to NewsDay ahead of today’s May Day commemorations, Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president Peter Mutasa said the commemorations had been dampened by the spectre of food insecurity and serious financial challenges, which could get worse as the year progresses, with the Zanu PF government failing to tame the tide.

“This is another bleak year for labour and all hopes, soon after the November 2017 removal of former President Robert Mugabe that things will improve, have been dashed because the country is facing a plethora of challenges such as food insecurity, failure to pay rentals and a majority of school children are going to be sent away from school for failure to pay fees,” Mutasa said.

“A lot of workers are dying at their homes because they cannot afford medical care because they earn useless RTGS dollars, while there is a mismatch in prices which are in United States dollars.”

This year’s main commemorations will be held at Dzivarasekwa Stadium in Harare where opposition leader Nelson Chamisa and his entire top party leadership will be among the guests.

Mutasa said he will be the guest speaker and his speech will be followed by another speech by ZCTU secretary-general Japhet Moyo.

“It is our day as workers so we as ZCTU, will be the guest speakers. We have invited all political parties (and leaders) in Zimbabwe, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa. If he does not attend, at least we expect the Labour minister Sekai Nzenza to attend as we have provision for their speeches. In the past, in 1987 and 1988, former Prime Minister Robert Mugabe used to attend May Day commemorations,” Mutasa said.

He said government policies pertaining to workers had caused much harm to the economy and there was now need to change course.

“Labour laws have been amended many times since 2002 with an aim to weaken protection of workers in line with neo-liberalist policies that government has put in place since 1991. Our Constitution for the first time recognised labour rights, but we have witnessed court judgments like the infamous July 2015 Supreme Court ruling where the law was interpreted in such a way that neo-liberalism and business win,” Mutasa said.

In the landmark ruling, the Supreme Court gave the employer the right to terminate workers’ contracts and offload them at three months’ notice without having to pay retrenchment packages.

MDC spokesperson Jacob Mafume said: “Our entire leadership from the party president Nelson Chamisa and other top leadership is going to attend, including MPs, councillors, members of the standing committee and party members will be there. Party members will also attend the May Day commemorations from various provinces in solidarity with the workers.

“Therefore, we expect anyone who has worked, who has never worked, and who hopes to work to come in solidarity with workers because people must be able to fight against the austerity measures that ZCTU is talking about.”

Zimbabwe Teachers’ Union chief executive officer Sifiso Ndlovu said remuneration of workers had been eroded.

“Teachers, specifically, are now grounded such that some have debts of up to $2 000 every month when they earn $600 monthly. We now want employers to increase salaries,” Ndlovu said.

Association of Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said May Day commemorations come at a time when austerity measures put in place by Finance minister Mthuli Ncube have made the working class poorer.

“As far as labour rights are concerned, teachers that took part in demonstrations have had their salaries un-procedurally cut. Government is setting a bad precedent to the private sector. Our union members have also been abducted and tortured against international labour recommendations and local laws,” he said.

The Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) said the commemorations come at a time when the economic situation is worsening, reducing most Zimbabweans, including workers to live a life of perpetual poverty.

“The harsh economic environment punctuated by rising cost of basic commodities, a cash crisis, retrenchments, unemployment and the widening gap between the poor and rich, has compromised the rights and health status of workers,” CWGH said.

The organisation added: “(Workers) cannot get or afford decent quality health services. Although the cost of living is skyrocketing on a daily basis, remunerations for most workers have remained stagnant for nearly two years condemning the workers to being destitutes.

“Worst affected are those working in mines, farms and plantations where wages are miserably low. Most of them depended on the collapsed public health sector and cannot afford private services.”

-Newsday

The victim, who police believe was 15 years old, was found injured in Somerford Grove, Hackney, London at about 21:00 BST on Wednesday and died shortly after, police said.

A shopkeeper said a boy ran into his store pleading for help saying he had been stabbed in the back.

A second boy, aged 16, found in a nearby road, was also stabbed but did not sustain life-threatening injuries.

A man from Elif Food Centre, who did not want to be named, told BBC London he tried to help one of the victims.

He said: “One boy came running into the shop last night saying ‘I have been stabbed in the back. Help me. Help me’.

“We called an ambulance and now police have seized our CCTV.”

Police said a section 60 stop-and-search order had been put in place for the whole of Hackney. No arrests have been made.

Hours later, officers were called to another, unrelated, stabbing near Camden Town Tube station.

A man suffered “life-threatening” injuries in the attack on Camden Road shortly after midnight.

So far this year, more than 40 murder investigations have been launched in the capital by the Metropolitan and British Transport police forces.

Twenty-nine of those investigations have been as a result of fatal stabbings.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he was “deeply saddened” by the latest killing in Hackney.

He added: “This horrific violence has absolutely no place on our streets.” -BBC