By A Correspondent-Zanu PF’s Gutu East parliamentary candidate, Zvarevashe Masvingise, has come under fire for creating a water crisis in the constituency after dismantling boreholes and failing to deliver on promises to replace them with solar-powered alternatives.

Masvingise, a former councillor, mobilised Zanu PF youth to remove manual boreholes across several wards, promising villagers that solarised boreholes would be installed within three days.

Nearly four weeks later, not a single solar borehole has been erected, leaving communities without access to safe water.

The move has severely impacted community gardens and households, with women and girls bearing the brunt.

Many now walk several kilometres to collect water from unprotected sources such as rivers and streams.

A crisis erupted at Mandeya Business Centre in Ward 4, Nyazvidzi, last weekend when two major churches—Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) and the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM)—held conferences without access to water.

The borehole had reportedly been dismantled by Zanu PF youth member Charles Mudhakwa Nqadini, who could not be reached for comment.

Independent candidate Gift Gonese, contesting in the June 14, 2025 elections, said villagers are now trying to restore the manual boreholes on their own, but the process is costly and slow.

Masvingise declined to comment, accusing The Masvingo Mirror of bias.

On Wednesday, The Masvingo Mirror witnessed a Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) team working to restore a borehole at Mandeya Business Centre.

Workers reported extensive damage caused during the dismantling.

This is not the first time Zanu PF has abandoned water projects after making election promises.

A similar stunt occurred ahead of the March 26, 2022 Masvingo City by-elections, where solar boreholes were promised but never completed after the party lost.

Affected areas include Zimbizi Primary and Secondary schools, Makanga, Dzino, Gumindoga, Chidoni, Muchekayaora, and Chana Clinic.

NCA spokesperson Maddock Chivasa said Zanu PF is already failing to deliver before elections and urged voters to consider alternatives.

By Crime and Courts Reporter-A Zebra Kiss bus crew has been accused of abducting and brutally assaulting a passenger over a stolen parcel that was later found.

Charlotte Dube, a cross-border trader returning from Zambia, was accused of theft by the crew after a fellow passenger claimed she had lost a parcel.

Despite the lack of evidence, a bus conductor identified as Pardy ordered Charlotte to remain onboard.

She was later driven to the company’s garage in Ardbennie, Harare, where she was assaulted by five men—identified only as Marvin, Munashe, Kuda, Roma, and a man who called himself Baba Keketso.

“They took turns beating me with planks,” said Charlotte, who sustained injuries to her hands, buttocks, and back. “They even confiscated my goods and gave them to the passenger who had accused me.”

The parcel was later found, and the accusing passenger informed the crew that nothing had been stolen. Zebra Kiss manager Kudakwashe Mupfukirei reportedly apologised for the false accusation, but in a brief comment to H-Metro, said: “We are yet to receive the report. We will respond once it reaches us.”

However, messages seen by H-Metro show Mupfukirei communicating with Charlotte’s husband, seeking an out-of-court settlement and offering US$300 in compensation.

“I used to trust Zebra Kiss, but now I feel broken,” said Charlotte. “Some passengers took photos of me, shared them online, and falsely labelled me a thief. This has destroyed my reputation, my business, and affected me emotionally.”

The case was reported at Mbare Stodart Police Station under RRB 6362618. Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza could not be reached for comment.

Malawi-Investigations into the military aircraft crash that claimed the life of Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others have revealed pilot negligence as the primary cause of the accident, Malawi Nyasa Times has reported.

According to a new international investigation, the Dornier 228-202(K) military aircraft operated by the Malawi Defence Force went down on June 11, 2024, after the flight crew opted to continue flying under visual flight rules despite deteriorating weather conditions. 

This critical misjudgment led the aircraft to crash in a forested mountainous area in the north of the country.

The plane had departed from the capital, Lilongwe, en route to Mzuzu Airport. 

However, poor visibility caused by bad weather made landing impossible. 

Air traffic controllers reportedly advised the crew to return to Lilongwe, but instead of turning back promptly, the crew persisted under risky conditions.

The investigation found that the decision to rely on visual navigation in unsafe weather ultimately led to the fatal crash. 

All ten individuals on board, including Vice President Chilima, were killed.

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF has come under fire for invoking the legacy of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo as part of its campaign strategy in the Insiza South by-election.

Critics accuse the ruling party of exploiting the revered nationalist’s name to rally support for its candidate, Delani Moyo, ahead of the June 14 poll.

A campaign rally held over the weekend brought together top Zanu PF officials including Provincial Chairperson and Industry Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, Deputy ICT Minister Dingumuzi Phuti, former Minister Abednico Ncube, MP Spare Sithole, former Cabinet Minister Andrew Langa, and businessman Dr Qhubani Moyo.

Zanu PF political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha praised the party’s liberation credentials and declared inevitable victory for Moyo.

“Delani Moyo is on his way to Parliament, whether those we are contesting against like it or not. We are a tried and tested revolutionary party that brought independence to this nation. Victory for us is certain. Zanu PF is an invincible phenomenon. We can’t lose to any party, worse an independent candidate,” said Machacha.

Moyo is facing opposition from Thabani Mlotshwa of ZAPU, Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party, and independent candidate Lesley Dube. The seat fell vacant following the death of MP Farai Taruvinga in March after a long illness.

In his address, Machacha linked Zanu PF’s campaign to the legacy of Dr Joshua Nkomo, affectionately known as “Father Zimbabwe,” claiming the late liberation hero had entrusted the ruling party with fulfilling the land reform agenda.

“You are aware that Dr Nkomo never relented in his quest to have the land retained by the majority blacks in this country. Even on his death bed he held President Mugabe by his hand and asked him to promise that, even if he dies, the land redistribution programme was not going to be halted, but instead would be fast-tracked so that people get value for what they fought for,” said Machacha.

Speaking after the rally, Delani Moyo promised to continue the development projects initiated by his predecessor while also launching new ones if elected.

“Taruvinga had several projects, which he had started, so once I am elected, those projects must be completed because it’s a party programme. I also have mine that I will start now as an MP because I have been doing a lot of projects for our people here,” said Moyo.

Meanwhile, Zanu PF provincial chairperson Nqobizitha Ndlovu said the party’s real competition was not the opposing candidates but outperforming its 2023 election results.

“The challenge we have as a party is not coming from those challenging our candidate, but it is us as we want to surpass the figures we achieved in the last national elections. Those challenging Moyo are in disarray, but we won’t sit on our laurels, lest they have a black jack in their sleeves,” said Ndlovu.

He added that Zanu PF was intensifying its campaign across Insiza South, deploying teams in every village and mobilizing even those who had moved away but remained registered in the area.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in our campaign. We must and we should retain this seat at all costs. Tomorrow’s rally will set the road to that resounding victory come results announcement on 14 June,” said Ndlovu.

As the campaign trail heats up, Zanu PF’s use of nationalist icons like Dr Nkomo is being closely scrutinized, with some residents questioning whether invoking past heroes is a substitute for delivering tangible development.

The government has officially outlawed the manufacture and distribution of illicit alcoholic brews popularly known as “musombodhiya” or “kambwa.” This prohibition was enacted through Statutory Instrument 62 of 2025, issued by the Minister of Home Affairs, Kazembe Kazembe, under the Harmful Liquids Act. The amendment, titled the Harmful Liquids Act (Amendment of Schedule to Act) Notice, 2025, expands the scope of banned substances.

According to the statutory instrument, the Act’s schedule now includes “any unregulated, unauthorised or illegally produced alcoholic beverages containing ethanol,” including those referred to by street names such as kambwa or musombodhiya.

The move comes amid growing public concern over the widespread use of dangerous homemade brews and other harmful substances, such as methamphetamine—commonly known locally as guka, mutoriro, or dombo.

In response, an inter-ministerial committee has been established to address the escalating crisis of drug and alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth. Plans are also underway for the development of rehabilitation centres to support recovery efforts.

Community leaders and other stakeholders have emphasized the need for sustainable youth empowerment initiatives, particularly income-generating projects, as a way to combat the root causes of substance abuse, with youth idleness identified as a key driver of the problem.

Bulawayo | Monday, 9 June 2025

What started as viral jokes targeting Harare’s residents has become a crawling nightmare in Bulawayo — and there’s nothing funny about it anymore.

Residents of Mpopoma’s Ward 9, particularly Block 46 and the flats behind Patapata Beer Garden, are under siege from a fast-spreading bed bug infestation that has left people scratching, suffering, and sleepless. Known for their painful bites and stubborn resilience, the bloodsucking pests are now a full-blown public health crisis.

“These bugs have turned our lives into a nightmare,” said a visibly distressed woman from Block 46, her arms, face, and neck covered in red welts. “We haven’t had a peaceful night in weeks. They bite my kids too. We’ve tried everything. Nothing works.”

Miss Siphiwe Moyo, another resident, shared the emotional toll: “This is hard to talk about. People will laugh at you. But we are suffering. We can’t sleep. These bugs are winning.”

According to residents, the Bulawayo City Council has offered fumigation services — but at a cost of US$47 per household, a figure many say is unaffordable.

“That amount is simply out of reach for most of our elderly residents,” said Ward 9 residents’ chairperson Mr. Stanslous Dube. “The infestation is real. Block 46 and Patapata flats are worst-hit. People are begging for help.”

Ward Secretary for Environment Mr. Dumisani Moyo confirmed that the problem is growing silently: “Many are too ashamed to report it. We’re appealing to Government to intervene before this spreads across the city.”

Ward 9 Councillor Donaldson Mabutho said he would visit the affected homes, while Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart stated he had not yet received an official report.

The infestation mirrors the alarming spread of bed bugs in Harare earlier this year, where entire suburbs were overrun. Now, public health experts warn that if urgent action isn’t taken, Bulawayo could face a similar fate.

A health official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “Many people are boiling water, using paraffin, or experimenting with homemade remedies. But bed bugs are tough. They hide in furniture, clothing, and luggage. They’re spreading fast.”

Experts note that warm temperatures worsen the crisis, speeding up breeding and migration during Zimbabwe’s dry season — the perfect conditions for an outbreak.

This isn’t just a local issue — it’s a global one. Paris battled bed bugs during the 2023 Fashion Week, while cities like New York, London, Johannesburg, and Mumbai have faced similar infestations in hotels, cinemas, hospitals, and trains.

Despite fumigation drives by the Ministry of Health and local councils in schools and hospitals, results have been mixed. Health authorities are now calling for a national emergency response, stressing that the crisis goes beyond itchy skin.

“These pests are a sign of a deeper urban sanitation problem,” said the health official. “They cause insomnia, anxiety, social stigma, and skin damage. But more than that, they expose gaps in how we maintain our communities.”

For the residents of Mpopoma, the situation has gone far beyond memes. As the bugs dig in, so too do the calls for urgent help.

Zimbabwe Bans ‘Musombodhiya’ in Crackdown on Illicit Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Harare – 9 June 2025 —
By A Correspondent | The Zimbabwean government has outlawed the production and distribution of the notorious homemade alcoholic brews known as musombodhiya and kambwa, under new regulations gazetted this week.

The ban is outlined in Statutory Instrument 62 of 2025, issued by Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe through the Harmful Liquids Act (Amendment of Schedule to Act) Notice, 2025.

According to the new legal amendment:

“The Schedule to the Act is amended by the insertion after item 9 (‘Nipa’) of the following item: ‘Any unregulated, unauthorised or illegally produced alcoholic beverages containing ethanol, colloquially referred to by such names as kambwa, musombodhiya or by any other name whatsoever.’”

The move comes amid mounting public pressure to tackle the widespread consumption of harmful brews and narcotics ravaging communities across the country. The illicit alcohol, often mixed with toxic industrial chemicals, has been blamed for numerous hospitalisations, deaths, and long-term health effects, particularly among vulnerable youth.

The government has also established an inter-ministerial committee to address the broader crisis of drug and substance abuse. The committee’s mandate includes coordinating the construction of rehabilitation centres, expanding public awareness campaigns, and introducing community-level interventions.

“There is a need for urgent and coordinated action,” said a senior official involved with the task force. “The abuse of substances like musombodhiya, mutoriro (methamphetamine), and other toxic brews is not only a public health crisis but also a national security concern.”

Stakeholders and civil society organisations have welcomed the ban but urged authorities to go further by implementing income-generating projects for idle youth and marginalized communities — factors consistently linked to the rise in substance abuse.

The government is under growing pressure to match enforcement efforts with long-term social solutions to prevent Zimbabwe’s drug epidemic from spiralling further out of control.

By A Correspondent

HARARE – ZANU PF has defended its record on peace and racial harmony, with party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa claiming the ruling party has “moved mountains” to promote unity both within Zimbabwe and across the region, despite persistent socio-economic challenges.

In a statement issued last week, Mutsvangwa sought to position the party—and President Emmerson Mnangagwa in particular—as champions of racial tolerance and mediators of peace. He argued that Zimbabwe under Mnangagwa’s leadership is an example of peaceful racial co-existence in Africa.

“President Mnangagwa has gone out of his way to engage with white communities,” Mutsvangwa said, highlighting what he described as a deliberate effort to include diverse voices in the country’s political and economic spheres.

“The President has appointed individuals from various racial backgrounds to key cabinet positions as a clear demonstration of this commitment.”

These comments come at a time when Zimbabwe is grappling with a deepening economic crisis marked by inflation, rising unemployment, and widespread public discontent. Critics argue that the ruling party’s rhetoric about harmony does not reflect the lived realities of many citizens.

Nonetheless, Mutsvangwa insisted that Zimbabwe’s leadership is making positive contributions beyond its borders as well. On a regional scale, he claimed that Mnangagwa played a discreet but effective role in defusing racial tensions in South Africa.

“President Mnangagwa also played a mediating role in easing tensions between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Afrikaner community, further underscoring his dedication to fostering racial harmony,” he said.

While the claims have sparked debate, with opposition figures questioning their validity amid growing unrest, ZANU PF maintains that its policies and outreach efforts are aimed at building a more inclusive and peaceful society.

The ruling party’s stance comes as it gears up for another election cycle and faces increasing pressure to address the root causes of the country’s economic and political instability. Whether such declarations of peace-building will resonate with the broader population remains to be seen.

By A Correspondent

The government has officially outlawed the manufacture and distribution of illicit alcoholic brews popularly known as “musombodhiya” or “kambwa.” This prohibition was enacted through Statutory Instrument 62 of 2025, issued by the Minister of Home Affairs, Kazembe Kazembe, under the Harmful Liquids Act. The amendment, titled the Harmful Liquids Act (Amendment of Schedule to Act) Notice, 2025, expands the scope of banned substances.

According to the statutory instrument, the Act’s schedule now includes “any unregulated, unauthorised or illegally produced alcoholic beverages containing ethanol,” including those referred to by street names such as kambwa or musombodhiya.

The move comes amid growing public concern over the widespread use of dangerous homemade brews and other harmful substances, such as methamphetamine—commonly known locally as guka, mutoriro, or dombo.

In response, an inter-ministerial committee has been established to address the escalating crisis of drug and alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth. Plans are also underway for the development of rehabilitation centres to support recovery efforts.

Community leaders and other stakeholders have emphasized the need for sustainable youth empowerment initiatives, particularly income-generating projects, as a way to combat the root causes of substance abuse, with youth idleness identified as a key driver of the problem.

By A Correspondent

ZAPU has slammed Zanu PF for what it calls the shameless exploitation of the legacy of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo in the ruling party’s campaign efforts ahead of the June 14 Insiza South by-election.

This comes after Zanu PF officials repeatedly invoked the name of “Father Zimbabwe” during a weekend rally in Insiza, where party heavyweights including Industry Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, Deputy ICT Minister Dingumuzi Phuti, former Matabeleland South Minister Abednico Ncube, and ex-Cabinet Minister Andrew Langa gathered in support of the party’s candidate, Delani Moyo.

Zanu PF Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha claimed Dr Nkomo had endorsed the party’s land reform policies, stating:

“Even on his death bed he held President Mugabe by his hand and asked him to promise that, even if he dies, the land redistribution programme was not going to be halted, but instead would be fast-tracked so that people get value for what they fought for.”

But ZAPU has condemned these remarks, accusing Zanu PF of distorting history and dishonouring Nkomo’s true legacy.

“Zanu PF has no moral standing to speak on behalf of Dr Nkomo or use his legacy to score political points,” said a senior ZAPU official who requested anonymity.

“It is the same party that persecuted him and his supporters, forced a Unity Accord under duress, and continues to marginalise Matabeleland to this day. Invoking his name now is not only hypocritical, it’s deeply offensive to those who truly knew what he stood for.”

Zanu PF’s Delani Moyo is contesting against Thabani Mlotshwa of ZAPU, Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party, and independent candidate Lesley Dube. The seat was left vacant following the death of sitting MP Farai Taruvinga in March.

Speaking after the rally, Moyo vowed to complete development projects initiated by his predecessor while introducing his own.

“Taruvinga had several projects, which he had started, so once I am elected, those projects must be completed because it’s a party programme. I also have mine that I will start now as an MP because I have been doing a lot of projects for our people here,” said Moyo.

However, ZAPU says the people of Insiza deserve more than symbolic references to past heroes.

“What they need are jobs, functioning infrastructure, and honest leadership. Not recycled slogans or history lessons aimed at covering up present-day failures,” the party official added.

Zanu PF provincial chairperson Nqobizitha Ndlovu said the party’s real focus is on surpassing its own 2023 results.

“The challenge we have as a party is not coming from those challenging our candidate, but it is us as we want to surpass the figures we achieved in the last national elections,” said Ndlovu.

But ZAPU says such rhetoric further shows Zanu PF is more interested in numbers than meaningful change.

“Dr Nkomo’s legacy is one of unity, peace, and empowerment—not manipulation. We will not allow it to be hijacked,” ZAPU said.

By A Correspondent

June 8, 2025

HWANGE – Former Cabinet Minister and long-serving Binga South Member of Parliament Joel Gabbuza is fighting for his life in hospital after being viciously attacked in what sources describe as a suspected love triangle gone wrong.

The former Minister of Water Resources and Development was reportedly assaulted with an axe by a man who accused him of having an affair with his wife. The attack is said to have taken place late on Friday, June 7, 2025.

As news of the brutal assault spread, social media was quickly flooded with unverified reports claiming Gabbuza had died from his injuries. However, his family has moved swiftly to dismiss those rumours.

“He is receiving treatment at Hwange Colliery Hospital. His condition has improved from last night, he is now able to speak,” his son told CITE in a telephone interview. “We are making arrangements to transfer him to Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo.”

The alleged assailant is believed to have fled the scene following the attack. While police have yet to release an official statement, residents say the motive appears to be deeply personal.

Gabbuza, a respected figure in Zimbabwean politics, served as MP for Binga from 2000 under the opposition MDC. After boundary adjustments in 2008, he represented Binga South until his recall from Parliament in October 2023. During the Government of National Unity between ZANU PF and the MDC from 2009 to 2013, he served as Minister of Water Resources and Development.

Despite being out of active politics in recent months, Gabbuza remained a prominent voice in the Matabeleland region. The attack has shocked many, especially those who have long viewed him as a quiet and disciplined statesman.

As investigations continue, Gabbuza’s family is urging the public not to spread misinformation and to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF has come under fire for invoking the legacy of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo as part of its campaign strategy in the Insiza South by-election.

Critics accuse the ruling party of exploiting the revered nationalist’s name to rally support for its candidate, Delani Moyo, ahead of the June 14 poll.

A campaign rally held over the weekend brought together top Zanu PF officials including Provincial Chairperson and Industry Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, Deputy ICT Minister Dingumuzi Phuti, former Minister Abednico Ncube, MP Spare Sithole, former Cabinet Minister Andrew Langa, and businessman Dr Qhubani Moyo.

Zanu PF political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha praised the party’s liberation credentials and declared inevitable victory for Moyo.

“Delani Moyo is on his way to Parliament, whether those we are contesting against like it or not. We are a tried and tested revolutionary party that brought independence to this nation. Victory for us is certain. Zanu PF is an invincible phenomenon. We can’t lose to any party, worse an independent candidate,” said Machacha.

Moyo is facing opposition from Thabani Mlotshwa of ZAPU, Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party, and independent candidate Lesley Dube. The seat fell vacant following the death of MP Farai Taruvinga in March after a long illness.

In his address, Machacha linked Zanu PF’s campaign to the legacy of Dr Joshua Nkomo, affectionately known as “Father Zimbabwe,” claiming the late liberation hero had entrusted the ruling party with fulfilling the land reform agenda.

“You are aware that Dr Nkomo never relented in his quest to have the land retained by the majority blacks in this country. Even on his death bed he held President Mugabe by his hand and asked him to promise that, even if he dies, the land redistribution programme was not going to be halted, but instead would be fast-tracked so that people get value for what they fought for,” said Machacha.

Speaking after the rally, Delani Moyo promised to continue the development projects initiated by his predecessor while also launching new ones if elected.

“Taruvinga had several projects, which he had started, so once I am elected, those projects must be completed because it’s a party programme. I also have mine that I will start now as an MP because I have been doing a lot of projects for our people here,” said Moyo.

Meanwhile, Zanu PF provincial chairperson Nqobizitha Ndlovu said the party’s real competition was not the opposing candidates but outperforming its 2023 election results.

“The challenge we have as a party is not coming from those challenging our candidate, but it is us as we want to surpass the figures we achieved in the last national elections. Those challenging Moyo are in disarray, but we won’t sit on our laurels, lest they have a black jack in their sleeves,” said Ndlovu.

He added that Zanu PF was intensifying its campaign across Insiza South, deploying teams in every village and mobilizing even those who had moved away but remained registered in the area.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in our campaign. We must and we should retain this seat at all costs. Tomorrow’s rally will set the road to that resounding victory come results announcement on 14 June,” said Ndlovu.

As the campaign trail heats up, Zanu PF’s use of nationalist icons like Dr Nkomo is being closely scrutinized, with some residents questioning whether invoking past heroes is a substitute for delivering tangible development.

By A Correspondent- Paul Tungwarara, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s special advisor, has been taken to court over an alleged illegal occupation and seizure of residential land in Harare.

This latest case further exposes the controversial land dealings linked to the Office of the President and Cabinet.

Tungwarara is being sued by Harare resident Chenjerai Milton Musonza, who accuses the presidential aide of expropriating his legally allocated residential stand and converting it into a “Presidential Scheme” without consent or compensation.

Musonza has filed a lawsuit against the City of Harare and its director of housing and community services, citing their complicity or negligence in allowing the takeover to occur. 

According to the court papers, Musonza was allocated Stand Number Rem 5807 Glenview, Harare, in March 2020 under a high-density infill programme.

He paid a total of ZWL$485,317.54 for the land and associated development costs, including:

• ZWL$1,500 for administration fees,
• ZWL$30,000 as a provisional land deposit,
• ZWL$150,967.53 for water connections, and
• ZWL$302,850 for sewer infrastructure.

However, in 2023, Musonza discovered that his stand had been taken over and transformed into a so-called Presidential Solar Scheme, with a borehole drilled and a solar installation erected—without his knowledge or approval.

After raising the issue with the City of Harare, municipal officials promised to allocate him an alternative stand. 

But Musonza says communication from council authorities abruptly stopped, and repeated follow-ups through his lawyers have been ignored.

He is now seeking legal recourse and compensation for what he describes as a blatant land grab orchestrated through political power and presidential proximity.

Tungwarara, a businessman and loyal Zanu PF operative, rose to prominence as one of the architects of Mnangagwa’s controversial “empowerment schemes” often marketed as Presidential Initiatives. 

He has been described as a key fixer and middleman in land deals linked to the Office of the President and Cabinet.

Over the past five years, Tungwarara has reportedly spearheaded several public-private schemes under the guise of development — including Presidential borehole projects, solar schemes, youth empowerment housing developments, and politically branded food distribution networks.

Many of these projects were rolled out in peri-urban and high-density areas ahead of the 2023 general elections and weretouted as government-led interventions, but critics argue they were thinly veiled vote-buying operations.

In numerous cases, such projects have clashed with urban planning regulations, while local residents have accused Tungwarara’s network of land seizures, intimidation, and using presidential authority to bypass municipal oversight.

Tungwarara has also been linked to land parceling deals involving:

• Politically connected housing cooperatives in Harare South and Budiriro,
• Private companies fronting as public development agencies,
• And the controversial use of Harare City Council land for so-called “Presidential input support schemes.”

Despite these accusations, he has remained shielded by his proximity to President Mnangagwa and continues to operate with perceived impunity — until now.

The latest court case, involving a private citizen who followed legal procedures and paid for land through formal channels, could expose a much wider network of elite land capture operating under the banner of state-sanctioned development.

By Crime and Courts Reporter – Police have confirmed that former Cabinet Minister and founding member of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), Joel Gabbuza, is in a critical condition after he was brutally attacked in what authorities believe was a crime of passion.

Gabbuza, a long-time ally of the late opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai, is currently admitted at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, where he is battling for his life following an alleged stabbing incident last Friday in Tinde, Ward 18, Matabeleland North Province.

National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident, stating that investigations were underway.

“We are investigating a case of assault in which Mr Joel Gabbuza was attacked by two suspects at a woman’s homestead in Tinde, Ward 18,” Nyathi said. “It is alleged that Mr Gabbuza had given a woman a lift and ended up spending the night at her homestead.”

According to sources close to the investigation, the assailants — believed to include the woman’s estranged husband — ambushed Gabbuza and viciously attacked him with knives, inflicting deep wounds to the head.

The attackers reportedly fled the scene, leaving Gabbuza bleeding profusely.

A police report was filed at Kamativi Police Station, but the suspects remain at large.

Initially rushed to Hwange Colliery Hospital, Gabbuza received emergency treatment as doctors worked to stabilise him.

Due to the severity of his injuries, medical staff recommended his immediate transfer to Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo for specialised care.

Unverified social media reports had falsely claimed that the former legislator had succumbed to his injuries. However, in a brief telephone interview, his son confirmed that Gabbuza was alive and responding to treatment.

“His condition has improved since last night and he is now able to speak. We are hopeful he will recover fully,” the son said.

Joel Gabbuza is one of the stalwarts of Zimbabwe’s opposition politics.

First elected to Parliament in 2000 to represent Binga under the MDC banner, he served the constituency for 23 years.

After the 2008 constituency boundary changes, he continued as MP for Binga South and retained the seat in successive elections until his controversial recall in October 2023 by self-proclaimed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu.

During the 2009–2013 Government of National Unity, Gabbuza served as Minister of Public Works.

He was widely respected as a technocrat and was instrumental in infrastructure policy under then-Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, with whom he maintained a close working relationship.

Gabbuza was known for his calm demeanour, grassroots activism, and enduring commitment to the people of Matabeleland North, where he was seen as a bridge between rural communities and national politics.

A known polygamist, Gabbuza had largely kept his personal life away from public scrutiny.

However, the nature of last week’s attack has drawn renewed attention to his private affairs.

Police have yet to release further details regarding the motive behind the attack or the identities of the suspects.

As of Sunday, hospital sources confirmed that Gabbuza remains in a stable but critical condition as doctors continue to monitor his recovery.

By A Correspondent

After more than four decades of unfulfilled promises in rural development, the ruling ZANU PF party has once again pledged to uplift villagers — this time by vowing to make them “rich” through empowerment initiatives aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Gutu East last weekend ahead of the June 14 by-election, ZANU PF national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha struck an optimistic tone, promising transformation and prosperity.

“Don’t worry, we will empower all of you in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision,” said Machacha.

“We are confident of winning the party’s confidence ahead of the June 14 by-election. The energy is electric as we mobilise for victory, standing firm in our commitment to the people and the vision for progress.”

“Thank you, His Excellency President Dr ED Mnangagwa, for your unwavering leadership and commitment to the people.”

However, critics argue that these bold statements are nothing more than recycled campaign rhetoric—a familiar pattern for the ruling party that has governed since independence in 1980. Gutu East, like many other rural constituencies, continues to suffer from underdevelopment, with residents lacking access to clean water, healthcare, decent roads, and employment opportunities.

For decades, ZANU PF has made grand promises to rural voters during election seasons, only for those pledges to fade once the votes are secured. Analysts say this latest campaign pitch appears to follow the same script: lofty visions, zero accountability.

By Municipal Reporter-The Harare City Council, led by Mayor Jacob Mafume, has sparked public debate after announcing a sweeping renaming of key roads in the capital — a move that some say reflects growing political alignment with the ruling ZANU-PF party.

The council, now under the influence of the Sengezo Tshabangu-led faction of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has renamed at least 18 major roads, replacing colonial and historic names with those of prominent local and international political figures, some closely associated with the liberation struggle and post-independence governance.

According to an official post by the City of Harare, the new names include:

• Charter Road → Fidel Castro Road
• Third Street → Patrice Lumumba Street
• Five Avenue → Leonid Brezhnev Street
• Speke Avenue → Agostinho Neto Avenue
• Angwa Street → Sir Seretse Khama Street
• Rezende Street → Julia Zvobgo Street
• Selous Avenue → John Landa Nkomo Avenue
• Cameron Street → Joseph Msika Street
• Baines Avenue → Herbert Ushewokunze Avenue
• Dieppe Road → Vitalis Zvinavashe Road
• Argyle Road → Sydney Malunga Road
• Lorraine Drive → Mama Mafuyana Drive
• Forth Street → Simon Vengai Muzenda Street
• Enterprise Road → ED Mnangagwa Road
• Kirkman Drive → Solomon Mujuru Drive
• Livingstone Avenue → Oliver Tambo Avenue
• Second Street → Sam Nujoma Street
• Innez Terrace → Mayor Urimbo Terrace

While the renaming of roads is not unusual in post-colonial Zimbabwe, the decision has drawn scrutiny due to its political overtones, especially in light of recent comments by Tshabangu suggesting the construction of a rotating statue of President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the newly commissioned Trabablas Interchange.

“Yes, I said that in recognition of President Mnangagwa’s good work on this massive Trabablas Interchange,” Tshabangu told journalists. “It’s good that a rotating statue that gives everyone an all-round view of the country be erected at the interchange. As the official opposition, we propose that.”

Tshabangu’s remarks have been widely condemned by opposition supporters and civil society actors, who see them as a clear departure from his mandate to hold the ruling party to account. Many observers interpreted the statement as a blatant act of political bootlicking, unbecoming of a self-declared opposition leader.

The call for a presidential monument, coupled with the naming of a major road after Mnangagwa — Enterprise Road is now ED Mnangagwa Road — has deepened suspicions that Tshabangu’s CCC faction is working in concert with ZANU-PF interests.

Political analyst Tawanda Moyo commented, “It’s no longer about symbolic gestures. This is about political realignment masquerading as civic recognition. Tshabangu’s actions suggest he’s abandoning the watchdog role of the opposition in favor of personal or factional gain.”

While infrastructure development such as the Trabablas Interchange is often praised across the political divide, critics argue that Tshabangu’s tone and timing are alarming, particularly as Zimbabwe faces mounting international criticism over repression, economic collapse, and the shrinking of democratic space.

For many, these developments reflect a broader crisis in opposition politics, where fragmentation, co-optation, and lack of principled leadership are undermining efforts to challenge authoritarian rule.

As of now, there has been no official government response to Tshabangu’s statue proposal. But the controversy continues to intensify, raising difficult questions about the independence, integrity, and future of opposition politics in Zimbabwe.

By A Correspondent

Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu has sparked widespread criticism after proposing the erection of a statue of President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the recently completed Trabablas Interchange in Harare.

Tshabangu’s remarks have been interpreted by many as a shocking show of allegiance to the ruling ZANU-PF leader — a move viewed by some as a blatant act of political bootlicking coming from a figure who claims to represent the official opposition.

Speaking on the matter, Tshabangu said:

“Yes, I said that in recognition of President Mnangagwa’s good work that he did on this massive Trabablas Interchange. It’s good that a rotating statue that gives everyone an all-round view of the country be erected at the interchange. As the official opposition, we propose that.”

The proposal has stirred debate within political circles and on social media, with critics questioning Tshabangu’s motives and the implications of an opposition leader praising and promoting the glorification of a sitting president through state-sponsored symbolism.

While infrastructure development is often acknowledged across party lines, Tshabangu’s call has raised eyebrows due to its timing and tone — particularly at a moment when Zimbabwe is facing criticism over economic hardship, suppression of dissent, and shrinking democratic space.

Analysts have pointed out that the statement could further erode public trust in the opposition’s ability to hold the ruling party accountable, with one commentator describing the move as “a calculated alignment with power rather than principle.”

As of now, there has been no formal government response to Tshabangu’s proposal, but the debate continues to intensify regarding the independence and integrity of Zimbabwe’s opposition politics.

By A Correspondent

After more than four decades of unfulfilled promises in rural development, the ruling ZANU PF party has once again pledged to uplift villagers — this time by vowing to make them “rich” through empowerment initiatives aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Gutu East last weekend ahead of the June 14 by-election, ZANU PF national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha struck an optimistic tone, promising transformation and prosperity.

“Don’t worry, we will empower all of you in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision,” said Machacha.

“We are confident of winning the party’s confidence ahead of the June 14 by-election. The energy is electric as we mobilise for victory, standing firm in our commitment to the people and the vision for progress.”

“Thank you, His Excellency President Dr ED Mnangagwa, for your unwavering leadership and commitment to the people.”

The bold promises come amid mounting criticism over the ruling party’s failure to deliver meaningful development in rural communities over the past 45 years. Analysts have called the latest rhetoric a recycled campaign tactic, especially in constituencies like Gutu East, where access to basic services such as clean water, healthcare, and employment remains limited.

Despite public scepticism, ZANU PF is banking on strong rural voter support and what it describes as “grassroots mobilisation” to secure victory in the upcoming by-election.

Whether the promises of wealth and empowerment will translate into actual change — or simply fade like those of past campaigns — remains to be seen.

Harare – 7 June 2025.

Pictures of a teenager getting convicted over theft of USD15,000 owned by VP Chiwenga’s wife, within 6 months of the 2nd Lady posing on camera with the nation’s biggest convicted fraudster currently swindling millions of dollars, Wicknell Chivayo, do not seem to make sense.

By Showbiz Reporter | ZimEye | A growing chorus of voices is calling on Zimbabwe’s Second Lady, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi Chiwenga, to show mercy on 18-year-old Succeed Mukaro, who was convicted this week of breaking into her Borrowdale shop and stealing cellphones worth US$15,000.

Mukaro, a teenager from Domboshava, pleaded guilty before Harare provincial magistrate Ethel Chichera after being apprehended while attempting to sell the stolen devices. He now awaits sentencing.

But public opinion is sharply divided. While the state proceeds with the case, many citizens online are pleading for compassion, asking the Vice President’s wife to drop the charges and consider rehabilitating the youth instead of incarcerating him.

“If I were Miniyothabo Baloyi Chiwenga, I would drop the charges, adopt Succeed Mukaro, and possibly employ him,” wrote one commenter, Sekuru Sithole Makumbe, in a widely shared Facebook thread.

A Cry for Mercy or a Slippery Slope?

Others in the thread pushed back, arguing that theft should not be excused regardless of circumstance.

“So how many thieves have you adopted so far?” asked Adrian Koto Chikambure.
“People need to be responsible for their actions… he made his bed, let him lie on it,” added Patty Moosheryeequa.

Still, Sekuru Sithole stood firm, urging Zimbabweans to think beyond the crime itself and reflect on the systemic poverty and youth unemployment that may have driven the teenager to act out of desperation.

“Did he commit the crime out of greed or survival? The same money that could’ve employed youths like Mukaro was looted — Gwanda Solar Project money, looted funds now buying luxuries. But we jump to punish a boy for phones while real criminals roam free.”

His comments drew comparisons between Mukaro’s situation and Zimbabwe’s broader socio-economic collapse, where elite-connected tenderpreneurs live in luxury, and youths struggle to survive.

The Case for Restorative Justice

Some advocates now call on the Second Lady — a senior officer in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and respected figure in both military and business circles — to set a national example of restorative justice.

They argue that rehabilitation, mentorship, and employment might not only change Mukaro’s life but spark a conversation about how the state can redirect wayward youth without condemning them permanently.

An Open Letter to the Second Lady

Dear Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi Chiwenga,

Succeed Mukaro has erred. He has confessed. He is young. He is broken.

But what this moment calls for is not just the firmness of law, but the power of mercy. You have the ability to turn a court case into a national case study in redemption over retribution.

A single act of grace could reframe Zimbabwe’s justice narrative — and transform a convicted boy into a reformed man, a future builder.

Signed,
The People of Zimbabwe.

By A Correspondent

Mike Mapinga, the 40-year-old owner of four aggressive dogs linked to a deadly attack in Bluffhill, Harare, will remain in custody for at least another week after withdrawing his bail application.

Mapinga, who is facing culpable homicide charges, appeared before Harare regional magistrate Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa. His legal representative, Mr Stephen Chikotora, told the court that the defense was putting the bail application on hold to focus on another legal matter involving Mapinga currently being handled in a different court.

The fatal incident took place on May 31, when Mapinga’s three Pit Bulls and a Rottweiler allegedly mauled a neighbour to death. According to the State, Mapinga acted negligently by releasing the unmuzzled dogs into the yard of his rented property, which is only enclosed by a low brick-and-mortar wall. After releasing the animals, it is alleged that Mapinga went back to his bedroom, leaving them unsupervised.

The decision to cancel the bail bid means Mapinga will remain behind bars as investigations and court proceedings continue. The case has drawn significant public attention, with many calling for stricter regulations around the ownership of dangerous dog breeds.

I sit at a breakfast table in Harare in Zimbabwe. The tea that I consume will not be English breakfast, but Kericho tea from Kenya and coffee highly from Ethiopia. And when we do that, then we create jobs. As I conclude, as I was flying from Addis Ababa to Harare last night, I sat next to a young Zimbabwean who is involved in artificial intelligence in Dubai. He’s been there for three years. I think he is here. And I asked him whether he is actually intelligent. He said, I’m very intelligent. And to me, the most amazing thing is that he’s in that space, but he’s conscious that he must make a contribution. So he’s trying to spread his tentacles here. to bring the things that he has learned in that space to come and have them done here. And I conclude with what you said. This thing must be cascaded to rural Africa. It must not be a rare thing held in big conference centers. It must make sense to the people in general. This girl is a Soweto girl and she has a story to tell. I’ll tell it. Because these stories must be told. Because they inspire others. So thank you very much. I look forward to our interaction beyond these engagements. And don’t take it for granted. This gentleman here, we say hello to each other at least not once every week. That is the camaraderie that has now come to exist. You as the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Assistant Minister, you have a big speech to walk about, to spread this gospel, and we wish you that. Thank you very much.

COVENTRY, UK — June 7, 2025
Friends and family of the late Kudzaishe Chipadza, popularly known as Kay Cie, are gathering this afternoon at the House of Empowerment in Coventry to honour the memory of a man whose life was both vibrant and complex.

In an emotional tribute shared publicly ahead of the service, broadcaster and community elder Kelvin Sifelani—affectionately known to many as “Mukoma Kelvin”—reflected on the life and legacy of the departed Zimbabwean DJ, promoter, and cultural connector.

“Mukoma, I want to be bigger than you. I want my name to be bigger than yours one day,” Kay Cie once declared to Sifelani during a raucous Friday night at a beloved Coventry pub known as KwaGugu, where his entertainment career first took root.

The heartfelt memoir paints a portrait of Kay Cie’s rise from an ambitious young entertainer performing alongside DJs like Candyman, Youngblud, and DJ Lloyd, to a central figure in the diaspora’s cultural life.

Yet the tribute does not shy away from acknowledging the recent storm of allegations that clouded the final chapter of Chipadza’s life—including accusations of fraud and abuse. Sifelani expressed anguish at the harm reportedly caused by Kay Cie and extended empathy toward those hurt:

“I found myself praying for the wronged to be healed. I found myself begging and pleading for their forgiveness. If at all one is to ask who am I to apologise on his behalf, I will say he genuinely referred to me as ‘Mukoma.’ So in his absence it is my duty to stand on his behalf.”

Despite the controversy, Sifelani urged mourners to recognise the full complexity of a life lived out loud—one that brought both joy and pain.

“Kay Cie was often exceedingly generous. He was passionate about Zimbabwean and South African music. He brought it to the shores of the United Kingdom. He was a happy soul… That cannot be denied.”

He also called for an end to speculation around the circumstances of Chipadza’s death, which occurred in a hotel on June 2nd under still-unconfirmed conditions.

“What drives the rabid curiosity of what may or may not have happened in his final hours? This has all been so tragic.”

Sifelani, who is expected to officiate as Master of Ceremonies at today’s memorial, closed his message with a powerful call to unity and grace:

“Shouldn’t death—as it has always done with our forefathers—bring us together and not take us further apart?”

The memorial for Kay Cie begins at 2PM today at House of Empowerment, Lady Lane, Coventry CV6 6AZ. The community is invited to remember, reflect, and reckon with the legacy of a man who, as Sifelani concludes, “was and is of infinite value.”

⸻

🕊️ Rest in Peace, Kudzaishe Chipadza.

By A Correspondent…

Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu has announced his intention to spearhead a bold new campaign aimed at uniting opposition forces to remove the long-ruling ZANU PF from power.

Speaking in a tone strikingly different from his previously perceived alignment with the ruling party, Tshabangu made an open appeal to Zimbabweans and opposition leaders, calling for unity and transparency.

“Without a united plan, we’ll struggle to achieve our goal to remove ZANU PF,” Tshabangu said. “Our challenges include selfishness, lack of transparency, and self-centeredness. I’m open to dialogue with anyone who shares our vision for a better future.”

Tshabangu’s declaration has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum, especially given his history of recalling Members of Parliament and councillors aligned to former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa—a move widely seen as weakening the opposition and indirectly benefiting ZANU PF. Critics have often labelled him a ZANU PF proxy, a perception he now seems eager to shake off.

“We’ve only one Zimbabwe to love,” he added. “This fight is bigger than personalities. It’s about the future of our children and the direction of our nation.”

Analysts are divided on whether Tshabangu’s latest message signals a genuine attempt to rebuild the fractured opposition or is a calculated political maneuver to rebrand himself ahead of future elections. Some believe his appeal may fall on deaf ears, particularly among opposition supporters who feel betrayed by his recent actions.

Still, Tshabangu’s call for dialogue and cooperation among opposition parties has reignited discussions around the urgent need for a cohesive, people-driven movement capable of challenging the status quo.

Whether his leadership in this proposed campaign will gain traction remains to be seen, but one question now hangs in the air: Will Zimbabwe’s opposition forces come together—or will political egos continue to divide the fight for change?

By A Correspondent-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has promoted Brigadier General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi—the man who led the controversial Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ)—to the rank of Major General and formally returned him to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).

FAZ, widely regarded as a shadowy, Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO)-run militia group, played a central role in securing Mnangagwa’s disputed re-election in the 2023 general elections. 

Under the command of Tapfumaneyi, a veteran CIO operative and former Deputy Director General of the spy agency, FAZ was deployed extensively in rural communities, where it operated parallel to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

Its agents reportedly set up command centres, collected voter information, and engaged in systematic voter intimidation.

Both local and international election observers—including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the European Union (EU)—raised alarm over FAZ’s operations. 

The group was accused of undermining the secrecy of the vote by positioning its operatives near polling stations to monitor and pressure voters, particularly in rural constituencies viewed as ZANU PF strongholds.

Tapfumaneyi’s promotion and reabsorption into the army further highlight the blurred lines between Zimbabwe’s military, intelligence services, and the ruling ZANU PF party.

Since independence in 1980, ZANU PF has routinely relied on the security apparatus—particularly the military and CIO—to entrench its power.

The pattern became especially pronounced in the 2008 elections, when the military-led Joint Operations Command (JOC) orchestrated a brutal campaign of violence and intimidation following ZANU PF’s first-round defeat to the opposition MDC.

In 2017, the military played a decisive role in ousting long-time ruler Robert Mugabe and installing Mnangagwa as his successor. 

The 2018 and 2023 elections have since entrenched the military’s influence in electoral processes, often at the expense of democratic credibility.

At a ceremony held at the ZDF Headquarters in Harare on Friday, Commander of the Defence Forces General Philip Valerio Sibanda conferred the new rank on Tapfumaneyi and welcomed him back into the military establishment.

“Congratulations to you, Major General Tapfumaneyi, and welcome back to the ZDF. We are looking forward to working with you,” said General Sibanda.

In his acceptance speech, Major General Tapfumaneyi expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for the promotion, and pledged loyalty to the ZDF command and the President’s national security agenda.

“I am determined and committed to supporting the President’s vision and the Commander’s plan in defence of this country and making sure the country remains secure. I want to thank His Excellency for promoting me,” Tapfumaneyi said.

Tapfumaneyi has previously held several senior government positions, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs and Deputy Director General of the CIO.

His reappointment to the military hierarchy signals the continued consolidation of power by Mnangagwa through loyalists embedded across Zimbabwe’s security structures.

-ZBC

By A Correspondent-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has redeployed and promoted Brigadier General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi—the man who led the controversial Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ)—to the rank of Major General and formally returned him to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).

FAZ, widely regarded as a shadowy, Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO)-run militia group, played a central role in securing Mnangagwa’s disputed re-election in the 2023 general elections. 

Under the command of Tapfumaneyi, a veteran CIO operative and former Deputy Director General of the spy agency, FAZ was deployed extensively in rural communities, where it operated parallel to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

Its agents reportedly set up command centres, collected voter information, and engaged in systematic voter intimidation.

Both local and international election observers—including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the European Union (EU)—raised alarm over FAZ’s operations. 

The group was accused of undermining the secrecy of the vote by positioning its operatives near polling stations to monitor and pressure voters, particularly in rural constituencies viewed as ZANU PF strongholds.

Tapfumaneyi’s promotion and reabsorption into the army further highlight the blurred lines between Zimbabwe’s military, intelligence services, and the ruling ZANU PF party.

Since independence in 1980, ZANU PF has routinely relied on the security apparatus—particularly the military and CIO—to entrench its power.

The pattern became especially pronounced in the 2008 elections, when the military-led Joint Operations Command (JOC) orchestrated a brutal campaign of violence and intimidation following ZANU PF’s first-round defeat to the opposition MDC.

In 2017, the military played a decisive role in ousting long-time ruler Robert Mugabe and installing Mnangagwa as his successor. 

The 2018 and 2023 elections have since entrenched the military’s influence in electoral processes, often at the expense of democratic credibility.

At a ceremony held at the ZDF Headquarters in Harare on Friday, Commander of the Defence Forces General Philip Valerio Sibanda conferred the new rank on Tapfumaneyi and welcomed him back into the military establishment.

“Congratulations to you, Major General Tapfumaneyi, and welcome back to the ZDF. We are looking forward to working with you,” said General Sibanda.

In his acceptance speech, Major General Tapfumaneyi expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for the promotion, and pledged loyalty to the ZDF command and the President’s national security agenda.

“I am determined and committed to supporting the President’s vision and the Commander’s plan in defence of this country and making sure the country remains secure. I want to thank His Excellency for promoting me,” Tapfumaneyi said.

Tapfumaneyi has previously held several senior government positions, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs and Deputy Director General of the CIO.

His reappointment to the military hierarchy signals the continued consolidation of power by Mnangagwa through loyalists embedded across Zimbabwe’s security structures.

-ZBC

By A Correspondent-Filabusi’s Chief Ndube, one of Zimbabwe’s youngest traditional leaders and among the few female chiefs in the country, has died. 

She was 40.

Born Nonhlanhla Sibanda, the late Chief Ndube was installed in 2007 at the age of 22, following a six-year succession dispute after the death of her father, Chief Andrew Sibanda, in 2001. 

Her appointment marked a historic moment as she became one of the rare women to assume traditional leadership in a male-dominated institution.

Matabeleland South Acting Director of Local Government and Public Works Mr. Zachariah Jusa and fellow traditional leader Chief Vuyani Nyangazonke Ndiweni confirmed her death.

“Yes, unfortunately, it is true that Chief Ndube has passed on. For more information, please get in touch with Chief Staudze,” Chief Ndiweni said.

Chief Ndube is survived by her husband and several children.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

By A Correspondent

Samuel Machara (39), the Bluff Hill man who tragically lost his life after being mauled by his neighbour’s pit bull dogs, was laid to rest on Thursday at Granville Cemetery in Harare.

The somber ceremony was attended by hundreds of mourners from the Bluff Hill community, who gathered to bid farewell and pay their final respects to Machara.

Machara was attacked by four pit bulls owned by his neighbour, Mike Mupinga (40).

Following the incident, Mupinga was arrested and has since appeared in court, where he was remanded in custody on charges of culpable homicide.

By A Correspondent

HARARE – A 50-year-old Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher, Martha Karota Rice, appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing charges of culpable homicide following the heartbreaking death of a three-year-old boy who drowned in a school swimming pool.

Rice, a resident of Rugare and employed at Saint Anne’s Primary School in Mabelreign, Harare, was arrested on June 4 in connection with the incident, which occurred the previous day.

According to the State’s case, on June 3, Rice allegedly left seven ECD pupils unattended and failed to properly secure a gate leading to the school’s swimming pool while she briefly entered the school building. During her absence, the child, identified as Elroy Tinayeishe Mutandiro, reportedly accessed the pool area and tragically drowned.

The court heard that Rice was the only adult responsible for supervising the children at the time, and her alleged failure to maintain adequate supervision and safety measures led directly to the fatal incident.

Rice has since been remanded in custody as investigations continue, with the court expected to determine the next course of action in the coming days.

By A Correspondent

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Featherstone intercepted a Nissan Note at the 103-kilometre peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road on June 4, 2025, leading to the arrest of 30-year-old Brian Bhobho for unlawful possession of mbanje.

Bhobho, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was found with dagga concealed in packaging typically used for 12.5 kilograms of flour.

By A Correspondent

Just a few days before the 14 June Gutu East by-election, independent candidate Gift Gonese has raised alarm over a disturbing pattern of intimidation, vandalism, and harassment by suspected Zanu PF supporters—with police allegedly turning a blind eye to the lawlessness.

At the centre of the controversy is the destruction of free WiFi hotspots installed by Gonese as part of his campaign outreach.

According to the candidate, local shop owners were forced to disconnect the WiFi under threat of arson by Zanu PF activists.

“Yes, we received reports from shop owners where we installed free WiFi hotspots that they were asked to disconnect our WiFi by Zanu PF, threatening to burn down their shops and houses if they refused,” Gonese said on Monday.

He further alleged that his campaign posters are being systematically removed and destroyed in broad daylight, often just before Zanu PF rallies.

He singled out one such incident on Sunday, ahead of a rally addressed by senior Zanu PF figures including National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Muchacha, Secretary for Security Lovemore Matuke, and State Minister Ezra Chadzamira.

“They are threatening our supporters with unspecified action if they vote for us,” Gonese added.

“They are also destroying and tearing down our posters in broad daylight.”

Multiple sources within Gutu East confirmed that Zanu PF-aligned groups are actively disrupting Gonese’s campaign activities—with no response or intervention from the police despite repeated complaints.

Residents and campaign aides describe a climate of fear, where village heads are reportedly being used to coerce communities into voting for Zanu PF.

“They are ordering traditional leaders to marshal people to the polling stations and ensure they are ‘assisted’ to vote. This is nothing short of electoral coercion,” said one source who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons.

The lack of police intervention in the face of these blatant electoral violations has sparked outrage.

“Police in Gutu East are not just silent—they’re complicit through inaction,” said a local human rights monitor.

“We are witnessing the weaponisation of fear, with state institutions either captured or paralysed.”

As the by-election nears, pressure is mounting on the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to explain its failure to uphold electoral laws and protect all candidates and voters equally.

Meanwhile, Gonese insists he will not be intimidated:
“We will not stop. We’re offering people real change, and no amount of thuggery will silence us.”

With just days to go, the Gutu East by-election has become a test not just of political popularity—but of the integrity of Zimbabwe’s electoral and law enforcement institutions.

By Tinashe Sambiri

In a move that underscores the dramatic collapse of Zimbabwe’s once-thriving agricultural sector, the Zimbabwean government has announced plans to import milk, sunflower oil, and agricultural machinery from Belarus — a decision critics say signals the country’s failure to restore self-sufficiency decades after the violent land reform program.

The announcement was made by Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Vangelis Haritatos, during an official visit to Belarus for the Belagro 2025 international exhibition. “Zimbabwe’s milk demand is estimated at 130 million litres per year, and we currently produce 120 million litres,” Haritatos told Belarusian Agriculture Minister Yuri Gorlov. “We are interested in ramping up the output of this product. We also want to buy sunflower oil and agricultural machinery.”

However, critics argue that the need to import such basic commodities is a direct consequence of decades of misguided and chaotic agricultural policies. Zimbabwe, once lauded as the breadbasket of Africa, has suffered a steady decline in agricultural productivity since the early 2000s following the violent and racially charged land reform campaign known as hondo yeminda.

The ZANU-PF-led land seizures displaced thousands of white commercial farmers, many of whom had generations of expertise in large-scale agriculture. Hundreds were killed or forced into exile, and millions of hectares of productive farmland fell into disuse or were handed over to politically connected elites with no agricultural background.

“The irony is staggering,” says agricultural economist Tendai Moyo. “We chased away people who knew how to farm, and now we’re going halfway across the world to buy milk. It’s not just a policy failure — it’s a national tragedy.”

Despite Haritatos’ claims that Belarusian machinery has helped “dramatically increase agricultural productivity,” data from Zimbabwe’s own Ministry of Agriculture shows continued shortfalls in key commodities like maize, wheat, and dairy products. Critics say that importing machinery is a stopgap solution that does not address the root causes of underperformance, such as lack of investment in farmer training, inconsistent government support, and corruption in land allocation.

“This isn’t a partnership of equals — it’s a band-aid over a self-inflicted wound,” says human rights activist Ruvimbo Chitiga. “We can’t import our way out of bad governance.”

While the Belarusian partnership may offer short-term relief, many Zimbabweans are left wondering whether their government will ever make the hard decisions necessary to rebuild the agricultural backbone that once fed the region.

As Zimbabwe ships in milk and machinery from Eastern Europe, the image of a nation that once exported food to its neighbors has faded into memory — replaced by empty silos, idle land, and a growing reliance on foreign aid and imports.

By A Correspondent – Chipinge villagers are challenging Greenfuel to apologise following viral videos of security guards beating helpless female pupils in Chisumbanje.

In a fortnight of rage and outpouring of public anger, the local communities in and around Chisumbanje Ethanol project, bombarded the premises for the Platform for Youth and Community Development to seek decisive action against Greenfuel Pvt for failure to take responsibility over their unrestrained security guards for excoriating vulnerable girls through excessive beating.

The public has also turned to social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook to express their anger and disdain.

Despite the fact that the two security guards in question (Makina and Komondeya) were subsequently arrested by Chisumbanje police and later charged by Nixon Mangoti at Chipinge Magistrate Court to undergo 280 hours of community service, the local community feel this is not enough.

Only a public statement from the “stubborn” Green Fuel company will douse their anger.

Mr Claris Madhuku, who is the Director and Team Leader for the Platform for Youth and Community Development (PYCD), expressed worry that this behaviour by Green Fuel’s security guards was not improving and has been like that for over a decade.

While speaking at a live interview hosted by a local community radio Vemuganga FM 106.8, Mr Madhuku said:

“PYCD has documented the human rights abuses instigated by Green Fuel security guards since 2009 and can confirm that there are over 10 incidences of unpalatable behaviour that has resulted in loss of life, injury and damage of properties due to the unrestrained behaviour of Green Fuel security guards. I vividly remember that in 2016, one of the Green Fuel security guards Borniface Shungwa (47) shot three (3) villagers and killed one (1) on the allegations these villagers stole sugarcane,” Madhuku said.

“For me, it is about the training, orientation and safeguarding issues that must be addressed by Green Fuel,” Madhuku added.

During the community radio live programme, Mr Owen Dhliwayo, who is a communications and media advocate, voiced out that Green Fuel needed to work hard on its public image to respond to the public outcry of this nature. The local community has harboured a perception that Green Fuel was always operating above the law, therefore fears no consequence from the local community.

“By virtue of having a juristic personality, Green Fuel is liable and should be held accountable to the disgraceful action of its personnel, and has to issue a public apology that shows genuine remorse over the incident,” Owen Dhliwayo explained.

Members of the local community, including those in the diaspora, vented their anger through social media to demand action against Green Fuel should there be no issuance of public apology. The public is citing cases of Green Fuel drivers who are involved in accidents with local community members. The company is accused of poor public relations during accidents and altercations with the local community, preferring to abandon their employees to face the wrath of the community alone.

Tonderai Nikisi, a local community member, contributed to the discussion by warning Green Fuel of bigger consequences if there was no apology.

“It is high time something must be done at Green Fuel… uuum this is unfair, we are now back to colonial era. People taking justice into their own hands,” Tonderai wrote.

Through his articles, Artwel Chingwara Sithole of Rimbi village described the behaviour by Green Fuel security guards as “wanton, disgusting and unacceptable.”

By A Correspondent

Bikita South Member of Parliament, Energy Mutodi, has confirmed the suspension of a constituency driver accused of misusing a ZANU PF vehicle by overloading it with building trusses.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Mutodi said the vehicle was being used for a constituency project but stressed that the driver had acted irresponsibly.

“We have suspended from work the driver who overloaded the party car with trusses,” said Mutodi. “Although the trusses were meant for a Constituency project, we felt the driver acted recklessly and needed to be suspended pending investigations.”

The incident has raised questions about the handling of party and state resources at grassroots level, with Mutodi moving swiftly to demonstrate accountability. He emphasized that while development initiatives remain a priority for his office, adherence to safety regulations and responsible conduct by staff is equally important.

“This kind of behaviour cannot be tolerated,” Mutodi added. “We are entrusted with party and government assets and we must ensure they are used properly.”

The MP did not disclose the identity of the driver but noted that a formal investigation would determine the final outcome. Party insiders said the vehicle in question had sustained no visible damage, but the overloading risked serious consequences had it gone unnoticed.

The suspension is expected to serve as a warning to other staff involved in constituency operations.

By A Correspondent

A community in Madlambuzi has been left in shock following the brutal killing of an 18-year-old boy in what police believe was a targeted attack sparked by a personal dispute.

Authorities have confirmed that an 18-year-old suspect, identified as Pastor Moyo, has been arrested in connection with the incident, while two accomplices remain at large.

The murder took place at Manguba Business Centre, where the victim, Qiniso Ndlovu, was reportedly found in a secluded area talking to Moyo’s niece. Enraged by the interaction, Moyo allegedly teamed up with Mhkuliseli Gumbo (21) and Sabata Moyo (21) to confront Ndlovu.

The situation escalated violently, resulting in the teenager’s death.

While Pastor Moyo was apprehended shortly after the attack, Gumbo and Sabata Moyo have since fled the area. Police have launched a manhunt for the two and are calling on members of the public to assist with any information that could lead to their arrest.

“Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the suspects is urged to report to the nearest police station,” said a police spokesperson. “We are treating this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.”

The incident has sparked outrage and fear among local residents, who say such violence is rare in the quiet community.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the attack, as calls grow for justice to be served in the wake of the senseless killing.

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has unveiled a controversial US$500,000 cash package for war veterans, raising eyebrows over the timing and motive behind the generous disbursement. The announcement was made on Friday at the City Sports Centre in Harare, where Mnangagwa officiated at the launch of the War Veterans Empowerment Fund.

The move comes amid mounting political tension and growing dissatisfaction within ZANU-PF’s traditional support base. Analysts say the large cash handout is a blatant attempt to secure the loyalty of war veterans ahead of internal party dynamics and possible unrest.

According to ZANU-PF youth supporters present at the launch, the cash payouts are meant to support war veterans in starting businesses and improving their livelihoods. “These empowerment launches haasi kungoisirwa for fun but taking care of those beneficiaries,” one youth said. “Recently Hairdressers for ED were given money to boost their hustles, ladies all over the country benefited from the launch and now they have upgraded their saloons and so on.”

Supporters of the initiative praised Mnangagwa’s leadership, viewing the move as part of a broader economic empowerment strategy. “On Friday the President together with others like Boss Tungwarara launched War Vets empowerment fund where over $500 000 USD in cash will be handed over to the war vets so that they can start businesses and also live a descent lifestyle. Thanks to the leadership, the initiative is very welcome,” another supporter remarked.

However, critics argue that the disbursement is nothing more than political patronage disguised as empowerment. With Zimbabwe’s economy in crisis, public sector wages stagnating, and basic services underfunded, the optics of handing out half a million U.S. dollars in cash are difficult to ignore.

Political analyst Dr. Raymond Masvora commented: “This is not economic empowerment; it’s transactional politics. Mnangagwa is buying allegiance in cash because he knows the ground is shifting. The war veterans are a vital bloc for ZANU-PF, and losing their support could have serious consequences.”

The move has also sparked concern among civil society groups who question the transparency and sustainability of such handouts. With no clear guidelines on fund allocation, monitoring, or repayment, fears of corruption and misuse loom large.

As Zimbabweans grapple with high unemployment and rising inflation, the President’s latest cash-based overture is likely to deepen public skepticism about the government’s priorities — and further fuel the narrative that state resources are being used to secure political survival rather than national recovery.

ZANU PF Photographer Celebrates Political “Oxygen” from Mafume — Irony Not Lost on Observers

Harare – June 6, 2025

In a moment layered with irony and political symbolism, ZANU PF’s official photographer Cleopas H. Mukungunugwa has publicly lauded opposition figure Jacob Mafume for his “effective leadership” — a surprising turn that has sparked debate across Zimbabwe’s political spectrum.

In a Facebook post that has since gone viral, Mukungunugwa contrasted Mafume’s active involvement in the War Veterans Empowerment Program with Nelson Chamisa’s spiritual-themed social media campaign. “Honestly, I think Jacob Mafume is proving to be a more effective opposition leader than Nelson Chamisa,” he wrote. “While Mafume is on the ground… Chamisa is just tweeting ‘GOD IS IN IT’ on X. Actions speak louder than words!”

What makes the post even more symbolic is the linguistic twist: Mafume, in some Shona dialects, translates to “oxygen” — the very thing Mukungunugwa seems to be breathing anew through this surprising endorsement. For a man so closely aligned with the ruling party to find “political oxygen” in the efforts of an opposition mayor underscores the complex realignments quietly reshaping Zimbabwean politics.

Observers have noted that Mukungunugwa’s post may be less about genuine political allegiance and more about the performative discrediting of Chamisa, whose faith-heavy messaging has drawn both admiration and criticism. The image comparison in the post — Mafume deep in community engagement versus Chamisa in branded religious apparel by the ocean — delivers a pointed visual narrative: engagement versus escapism.

Yet the revelation that even ZANU PF insiders are finding value in Mafume’s activism could signal shifting winds in Zimbabwe’s opposition dynamics. Is this a calculated compliment to divide and conquer the opposition, or a rare moment of cross-party respect? Only time will tell.

For now, one thing is certain: Mukungunugwa is inhaling deeply — and the air smells like Mafume.

—END—

Let me know if you’d like this turned into a meme, blog post, or press release.

By A Correspondent

INSIZA – The community of Insiza is mourning the passing of Chief Ndube, a respected traditional leader who served with distinction for nearly two decades. She was 40.

Born Nonhlanhla Sibanda, Chief Ndube was installed as the traditional leader of the Ndube chieftaincy in 2007, following the death of her father, Chief Andrew Sibanda, in 2001. Her leadership marked a significant chapter in the region’s history, as she was one of the few female chiefs in Zimbabwe, known for her commitment to community development, culture, and the empowerment of women.

Acting Director of Local Government, Mr. Jusa Zachariah, confirmed her death, describing it as a loss not only to Insiza but to the broader traditional leadership of the country.

“She was a young but strong leader who carried her responsibilities with dignity and wisdom beyond her years,” Mr. Zachariah said.

Throughout her tenure, Chief Ndube was celebrated for promoting education, upholding cultural values, and encouraging unity among her people. Her ability to lead with empathy while standing firm on issues affecting her community earned her respect across generations.

The circumstances surrounding her passing have not yet been publicly disclosed. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.

Chief Ndube leaves behind a legacy of trailblazing leadership and community service. She will be remembered as a pillar of strength and a voice for her people.

By A Correspondent

Samuel Machara (39), the Bluff Hill man who tragically lost his life after being mauled by his neighbour’s pit bull dogs, was laid to rest yesterday at Granville Cemetery in Harare.

The somber ceremony was attended by hundreds of mourners from the Bluff Hill community, who gathered to bid farewell and pay their final respects to Machara.

Machara was attacked by four pit bulls owned by his neighbour, Mike Mupinga (40).

Following the incident, Mupinga was arrested and has since appeared in court, where he was remanded in custody on charges of culpable homicide.

By A Correspondent

Mutare, Zimbabwe — In a major crackdown on corruption within the justice system, two police officers and a public prosecutor have been arrested and arraigned before the Mutare Magistrates’ Court on charges of criminal abuse of duty.

Sencia Masase, Liberty Tivakudze, and Shepherd Chavarika were granted bail at US$100 each after being implicated in a scheme involving the illegal solicitation of bribes for the release of a truck allegedly used to transport smuggled goods from Mozambique.

The case dates back to March 2025, when the first complainant’s truck was seized at a roadblock in Marara by Accused 1, Sencia Masase, who was also the investigating officer. A second complainant, believed to be the owner of the suspected contraband, was detained at Mutasa Police Station, and the truck was impounded.

By April 3, Constable Liberty Tivakudze (Accused 2) allegedly contacted the truck owner, asking her to come to Hauna to discuss the release of her vehicle. There, she met both Tivakudze and Public Prosecutor Shepherd Chavarika (Accused 3), who reportedly demanded a US$500 bribe. Under duress, the complainant handed over US$170 to Chavarika, and was later instructed to make an Ecocash payment of US$100.

Chavarika promised the truck would be released by April 9, despite it having already been transferred to ZIMRA offices at Forbes Border Post. The prosecutor then made a further demand of US$300 to facilitate the acquittal of the second complainant and the vehicle’s release.

Realizing the extent of the corruption, the complainant reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). A trap was swiftly arranged, leading to the dramatic arrest of the accused inside Chavarika’s office at Mutasa Magistrates’ Court, where US$200 in marked bills was recovered.

The arrests have sent shockwaves through the community, underscoring ongoing challenges in Zimbabwe’s fight against systemic corruption. Authorities have vowed to continue rooting out graft within public institutions.

By A Correspondent

Harare, Zimbabwe — A 24-year-old man has been convicted of physical abuse under the Domestic Violence Act by the Harare Magistrates’ Court after violently assaulting his 42-year-old girlfriend during a domestic dispute.

The incident occurred on 12 May 2025, when the man returned home intoxicated and was confronted by the victim over a light bulb found in his pocket. The altercation quickly escalated, and the offender struck the woman once in the face with an iron bar, inflicting serious injuries.

Following a full trial, the offender was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, with 4 months suspended on condition of good behavior for five years, leaving him with an effective 12-month jail term.

In response to the case, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) urged the public to reject violence in all its forms, encouraging individuals to seek peaceful conflict resolution or engage third-party mediation to handle disputes in relationships.

This case highlights the ongoing scourge of domestic violence in Zimbabwe and the legal system’s firm stance against it, regardless of age or gender dynamics.

Family of Pit Bull Owner Apologises as Victim of Fatal Dog Mauling is Laid to Rest in Harare

Harare – 6 June 2025
The family of Mike Mupinga, the man whose pit bulls mauled 39-year-old Samuel Machara to death in Bluff Hill on Sunday, has publicly apologised to the grieving Machara family and offered food assistance during the funeral proceedings.

The emotional burial took place yesterday at Glanville Cemetery on the outskirts of Harare, drawing a large crowd from the shaken Bluff Hill community. Machara’s death has gripped national attention and reignited debate over the ownership of dangerous dog breeds in Zimbabwe.

Family spokesperson Azaria Machara expressed deep gratitude to the community and acknowledged the gesture of remorse from the Mupinga family.

“The Mupinga family apologised for failing to protect their dogs and they also assisted us with food,” said Azaria. “Although Samuel was not an ardent member of Johanne Masowe, church members played a significant role in comforting us… Samuel was a very quiet person. The family has lost a true symbol of a peace maker.”

The burial ceremony was initially marred by tension after church leaders from the Johanne Masowe yeSaturday sect barred mourners from viewing Samuel’s body, citing religious custom. However, mourners eventually persuaded the church to allow a final viewing at the cemetery.

Samuel’s mutilated body was discovered along the roadside in Bluff Hill, bearing horrific injuries. Police confirmed that he sustained deep wounds to his neck, thighs, and hands, along with scratches and exposed flesh on his back. The four pit bulls involved in the attack have since been euthanised.

Calls to ban pit bulls in Zimbabwe have grown louder following the tragedy, mirroring similar legislative moves in countries such as the United Kingdom. Critics argue, however, that the issue lies not with the breed but with irresponsible ownership and lack of proper training.

Meanwhile, further controversy now surrounds Mike Mupinga, who remains in police custody. Law enforcement sources have revealed that Mupinga is also facing unrelated charges of car theft and rape, raising broader concerns over his conduct and the failure of authorities to act sooner.

The tragic death of Samuel Machara has left a deep scar on the Bluff Hill community and prompted renewed demands for tighter regulation of dog ownership. As mourners paid their final respects, the nation continues to grapple with the consequences of negligence and the call for justice.-NEWZIANA

Harare – 6 June 2025

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son-in-law, Gerald Mlotshwa, has officially stepped down as chairperson of the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), marking the end of his second and final term at the helm of Zimbabwe’s sports regulatory body.

The board’s tenure concluded on 31 May 2025, after serving two consecutive three-year terms. Mlotshwa, a prominent Harare lawyer and son-in-law to the President, was initially appointed on 31 May 2019 by then Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, Kirsty Coventry.

The outgoing board also included Allen Chiura, Colleen de Jong, Gail Van Jaarsveldt, Karen Mutasa, Nigel Munyati, and Titus Zvomuya, with Eltah Nengomasha joining as director-general and ex-officio member. Mutasa stepped down during the second term.

Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub, Mlotshwa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the commission and reflected on the board’s achievements, particularly in the area of governance reforms.

“I can confirm that my board’s tenure ended on 31st May 2025. We had served our second and final term as provided for in the SRC Act,” Mlotshwa said.
“My board and I are grateful for having had the chance to serve the nation, and I would like to think that we made a difference in sport, particularly in improving governance within the various national sports associations.”

Under Mlotshwa’s leadership, the SRC presided over several high-stakes developments, including controversial decisions such as the suspension of the ZIFA board and interventions in multiple sporting associations accused of maladministration.

While his tenure attracted both praise and criticism — often linked to the board’s firm stance on accountability — Mlotshwa has maintained that the SRC’s actions were always driven by the pursuit of sporting integrity and systemic reform.

“The outgoing SRC board, as was always the case before our appointment, will continue to be involved in sport in one way or another. It’s in our collective blood,” he added.

Kirsty Coventry, who twice appointed Mlotshwa, had previously praised his leadership as pivotal to stabilising and modernising the SRC.

As Zimbabwean sport now awaits the appointment of a new board, questions remain about who will steer the next phase of reforms and how politics may continue to shape the future of national sport governance — especially with Mlotshwa’s close ties to the First Family.

South Africa— President Emmerson Mnangagwa could be the biggest loser following the death in South Africa of Zambia’s former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

Lungu, a close ally of Mnangagwa’s ruling Zanu PF party and a prominent figure in the network of former liberation movements in Southern Africa, early Thursday, at the age of 68.

His party, the Patriotic Front (PF), confirmed a statement released late Thursday saying Lungu had “been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa” for an undisclosed illness. The party mourned the passing of a man it described as a “statesman, patriot and servant of the people.”

Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, after assuming office following the death of Michael Sata.

He presided over a turbulent period marked by rising debt, an economic downturn, and growing authoritarian tendencies, including a crackdown on dissent and independent media. 

Despite these challenges, he remained a revered figure among fellow regional leaders, especially those within the former liberation movements.

His close relationship with Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the broader Zanu PF elite was no secret.

He often expressed admiration for Zimbabwe’s “revolutionary resilience” and maintained warm ties with the Southern African Development Community (SADC)’s regional bloc of former liberation movements — including South Africa’s ANC, Mozambique’s Frelimo, and Namibia’s Swapo.

During his presidency, Lungu was a consistent voice in support of Mnangagwa, both during and after the 2017 coup that ousted long-time Zimbabwean ruler Robert Mugabe. 

Lungu was one of the first leaders to endorse Mnangagwa’s legitimacy and was seen as a regional bulwark against Western criticism of Zanu PF’s human rights abuses and disputed electoral processes.

But Lungu’s own rule was marred by accusations of authoritarianism. 

He oversaw the arrest of opposition figures, the militarization of state institutions, and controversial constitutional amendments aimed at extending his grip on power.

His 2021 re-election bid was marked by growing public dissatisfaction, culminating in a decisive loss to opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema.

On the eve of the 2021 election results announcement, Lungu infamously shut down the internet — a move widely condemned by rights groups.

His final public call as president, was on 13 August 2021, in a conversation with  ZimEye which urged him to avoid plunging the country into post-election violence.

After conceding defeat, Lungu briefly stepped back from politics but re-emerged in late 2023 with subtle hints of a political comeback — sparking tensions within the PF and fears of renewed political instability.

Though controversial at home, Lungu continued to enjoy a degree of respect among former liberation movement leaders.

His passing is felt deeply within that political fraternity, particularly in Harare, where Mnangagwa regarded him as both a comrade and regional ally.

Lungu is survived by his wife Esther and their children. Details of his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

By A Correspondent | ZimEye| An 18-year-old man from Domboshawa has been convicted for stealing cellphones valued at US$15,000 from the shop owned by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Miniyothabo, located in Borrowdale.

Succes Mukaro was found guilty of unlawful entry by Harare magistrate Ethel Chichera after admitting to the charges.

He is expected to receive his sentencing this Friday.

The theft took place on May 31, around 3:00 PM. At the time, Ossie Shone, a supervisor at Miniyothabo’s shop, had just finished his shift and departed without securing the premises properly, taking the keys with him.

That same afternoon, Mukaro broke through the front glass display, creating a hole large enough for him to enter the shop. Once inside, he stole cellphones worth US$16,915 before making his escape.

On June 3, 2023, police detectives received a tip-off regarding stolen cellphones being sold at Ximex Mall. They were able to recover some of the stolen phones from an individual named Blesses Luciano, who revealed that he had purchased the devices from Isaac Craig Chaza on June 1.

Detectives successfully retrieved additional stolen cellphones from Chaza by posing as potential buyers. Chaza and an accomplice, Steve Makangira, then led the detectives to Mukaro, who was arrested alongside his brother Jason Moyo. Mukaro was found in possession of more stolen cellphones.

Further investigations at Mukaro’s residence in Domboshawa yielded more stolen property, and his fingerprints were found to match those collected at the crime scene.-ZimEye

Tinashe Sambiri -There are no permanent friends in Zanu PF — a reality that continues to manifest itself in Zimbabwe’s ever-shifting political terrain. The latest to fall from grace is former Zanu PF youth leader, Lewis Matutu, who now finds himself on the wrong side of the law.

A warrant of arrest has been issued for Matutu after he failed to appear before the court. The order was granted by Harare provincial magistrate Winfilda Tiatara, marking yet another chapter in the political drama surrounding former high-ranking party officials.

Matutu, once a vocal and influential figure within the ruling party’s youth league, was known for his bold rhetoric and public denunciations of alleged corruption within his own party. His controversial stance often placed him at odds with fellow Zanu PF members, contributing to his eventual sidelining from the political spotlight.

While the reasons for his court appearance have not been disclosed, his failure to attend proceedings signals a further unraveling of his once-prominent public image. Legal experts note that the warrant empowers law enforcement to take him into custody and present him before the court for further proceedings.

This development underscores the unpredictable nature of Zimbabwean politics, where today’s allies can become tomorrow’s fugitives. As Matutu navigates this latest legal trouble, the message is clear: in Zanu PF, power is temporary — and accountability, though selective, can arrive without warning.

By A Correspondent
The Zimbabwean government has unveiled what it touts as a major step toward ending sexual harassment in institutions of higher learning, but critics are already questioning whether the Model and Benchmarking Policy on Anti-Sexual Harassment for Higher and Tertiary Education Institutions will deliver real change—or simply remain a symbolic gesture.

At the official launch, Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Dr. Frederick Shava condemned sexual harassment in academia as a “gross violation of human rights” that strips away academic freedom and personal safety.

“It is deeply troubling and entirely unacceptable that spaces designed for intellectual freedom and personal growth have become environments of intimidation and harm,” said Minister Shava in Harare on Wednesday.

“Toxic environments create a climate of fear, silence and exclusion, particularly affecting women, girls and other vulnerable groups.”

He added that the policy is meant to empower victims and dismantle the culture of silence that has allowed perpetrators to thrive with impunity.

“Many individuals are forced into silence, paralysed by the fear of reprisals and overwhelmed by societal stigma,” Shava noted, arguing that this new policy is both urgent and necessary.

However, civil society actors and student leaders are already voicing concern that without enforcement mechanisms, independent reporting systems, and accountability at the institutional level, the policy risks being “a nicely worded document with no bite.”

“We’ve seen policies before that sound good on paper but are never implemented in practice,” said a university student leader who requested anonymity. “What happens when the accused is a powerful lecturer or administrator? Will survivors be protected or punished for speaking out?”

Women’s rights organisations echoed similar concerns, pointing to long-standing challenges around reporting abuse in Zimbabwe’s tertiary institutions—including victim-blaming, weak disciplinary systems, and a lack of psychological support services.

“There’s no clarity on how complaints will be handled independently of university politics,” said a spokesperson for a gender justice NGO. “A policy without an enforcement mechanism is a smokescreen, not a solution.”

As it stands, the policy’s success will depend not on its wording but on its implementation, institutional commitment, and political will. Without those pillars, observers warn, the policy may join a long list of government pronouncements that raise hope but deliver little.

In the meantime, students, especially young women, remain vulnerable in environments meant to nurture—not violate—their futures.

By A Correspondent

With tensions rising ahead of the 14 June Gutu East by-election, fears of politically motivated violence are growing as Zanu PF activists have allegedly threatened to burn shops belonging to opposition supporters, in a chilling escalation of pre-election intimidation.

Independent candidate Gift Gonese, who is contesting in the volatile Gutu East constituency, says the threats are part of a broader campaign of terror aimed at silencing dissent and punishing perceived opponents of the ruling party.

“Shop owners told us they were directly threatened with arson if they continued to allow us to use their premises for campaign activities,” Gonese told reporters. “These are not just idle threats. They are warning business owners that their shops and even homes will be burnt if they are seen to support us.”

According to several sources on the ground, suspected Zanu PF youths have been moving through villages, warning known or suspected opposition supporters that their livelihoods are at risk. Shop owners who hosted free WiFi hotspots set up by Gonese as part of his campaign were reportedly ordered to disconnect the service or face violent consequences.

“They’re creating fear on every corner,” said Gonese. “Our campaign materials are being destroyed, our supporters are being harassed, and now their businesses are under threat. Zanu PF hooligans are effectively holding the entire constituency hostage.”

Multiple villagers, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the threats and said that Zanu PF-aligned youth militias are identifying shops and homes owned by suspected opposition sympathisers. The message is clear: support Gonese at your own peril.

“People are scared, very scared,” said one resident. “We have seen them targeting shops that were rumoured to have supported Gonese’s free WiFi. These are not just campaign games anymore—this is intimidation with the real threat of fire and violence.”

Community leaders also allege that traditional chiefs and village heads are being used to reinforce the threats by warning their communities of “consequences” if they vote the wrong way.

In one incident described by Gonese, supporters were openly warned at a gathering: “If you vote for the wrong person, you’ll regret it. Your homes and shops could be next.”

Despite the serious nature of these threats, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reportedly done little to intervene. Several formal complaints have been filed by Gonese’s campaign team, but no arrests have been made and no investigations launched.

“The police are watching it all happen,” Gonese said. “Their silence speaks volumes. We are not just fighting Zanu PF; we are fighting a whole system that protects violence and punishes democracy.”

Human rights monitors are raising the alarm over what they describe as a “coordinated terror campaign” meant to suppress voter choice and manipulate the outcome of the by-election through fear.

As election day draws closer, the eyes of the nation—and international observers—will be watching whether the Gutu East by-election becomes yet another example of electoral violence and impunity in Zimbabwe’s troubled democracy.

Gonese remains defiant in the face of the threats:
“We will not back down. We will not be silenced. These threats only strengthen our resolve to bring real change to Gutu East.”

By A Correspondent| Former Zanu PF Youth League Commissar, Godfrey Tsenengamu, has poured cold water on growing speculation of a possible coup in Zimbabwe, firmly defending Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In a strongly worded post on social media platform X, Tsenengamu labeled coup talk as baseless and misleading, urging Zimbabweans to focus on more pressing national issues instead of entertaining what he called “fiction.”

“This should sink into the minds of those who hate the truth,” Tsenengamu posted. “General Chiwenga is an innocent man who would never consider removing Mnangagwa from State House by any means. He has unwavering loyalty to Mnangagwa and is far too junior to plot against him.”

Tsenengamu called on critics and skeptics to reflect on the historical context of the two leaders’ political careers, noting that when Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, Mnangagwa was already a senior figure, serving as Minister of State Security and handling critical national matters. In contrast, Chiwenga was a junior figure in the Zimbabwe National Army at the time.

“Consider their positions at independence,” he wrote. “Where was General Chiwenga in the Zimbabwe National Army? Meanwhile, Mnangagwa was already the Minister of State Security, handling sensitive national security issues in a newly independent country.”

His comments come amid mounting speculation in political circles and on social media over growing tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party, particularly between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, who led the 2017 military intervention that ousted long-time ruler Robert Mugabe and paved the way for Mnangagwa’s rise to power.

Despite these persistent rumours, there has been no official indication of discord between the two men. However, analysts have suggested that subtle positioning by Chiwenga’s allies and frustrations over the stalled power rotation could be feeding speculation of a second military intervention.

Tsenengamu, once a fierce critic of the ruling party before attempting to reposition himself as a voice of conscience within and beyond Zanu PF, said such speculation is unhelpful and detracts from the nation’s real challenges.

“Reflecting on this should put things into perspective,” he concluded. “Focus on more pressing issues in your daily lives. Zvekuti coup haaaa, ndezvimwe izvo, hazviko [That coup talk? That’s something else—it’s not happening].”