By Own Correspondent- While senior government officials confirmed that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga was reportedly airlifted to South African hospital over an undisclosed ailment, a local publication reports that the same senior government sources were evasive on shedding more light regarding the development.
Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa was reportedly ignoring calls when her comment was sought while Permanent secretary in the Ministry, Ndavaningi Mangwana referred all questions to presidential spokesperson George Charamba.
Said Mangwana:
Kindly talk to the presidential spokesperson Cde George Charamba on all issues relating to the presidency. I can only answer to questions that involve government business, not the presidency.
Both Charamba and deputy Information Minister Energy Mutodi did not respond to questions sent to their mobile phones regarding Chiwenga’s health.
Sometime in 2018, Chiwenga spoke about his health where he revealed that he had a skin disease.
Said Chiwenga then:
Today, we want to set the record straight on one issue, now that journalists are here. When we did our operation to normalise things in the country, I was with General [Phillip Valerio] Sibanda and many others. They are brave men, indeed.
We also informed vaMatanga [Godwin,) then Deputy Commissioner-General of Police, but now Commissioner-General] about the plan; it was during that time that I fell ill. I had this skin disease [nhuta] that affected my whole body from beneath my feet to my back and the journalists started saying I was using skin lightening creams, but that was not the case. I was sick.-Newsday
By Own Correspondent- Two men from Zvishavane have been hauled to court accused of murder.
The duo, Tatenda Ngwenya (22) and Givemore Ngwenya (22) assaulted and threw into a disused mine shaft Gladys Zembeti after they assaulted her at her house in the same area on December 21, 2017.
Zembeti died as a result of injuries sustained after she was thrown into the shaft.
Ngwenya and Matumba, who then went on the run, but were recently arrested, appeared before Zvishavane resident magistrate Archie Wochiunga facing murder charges.
They were not asked to plead and were remanded in custody to today.
Socialite, madam Boss has apologised to the public for dressing inappropriately at the recent StarFM Awards.
Tyra Chikoko appeared at the weekend function dressed in a “breasts out” outfit that also exposed her sacred form and shape. Below was her apology:
My dear Fans. Firstly I would like to apologize for my dressing at the STAR FM AWARDS. As you know I travel a lot,so mukufamba tinoona zvakasiyana siyana and I really thought this jumpsuit was going to be a show stopper to my fans but overally YOU MY FANS you didn’t accept it that well.
I do what I do for you,so it is with great deepest apologies from the bottom of my heart and I repeat AGAIN I AM SORRY.
I am going to go back to those long dresses because they where more elegant than the jumpsuit.
Ndiri munhu wenyama ndombotadzawo,and I hope you accept my apology.
There were no so called Western sanctions at all when Emmerson Mnangagwa personally destroyed the economy by describing 22000 people as Cockroaches resulting in the economy nosedive of 1983 to 1985.
There were no sanctions either when Mnangagwa personally presided over the awarding of 1 billion dollar tender business to the well known fraudster, Wicknell Chivayo.
A high-level ANC delegation – including secretary-general Ace Magashule and Bongani Bongo, a member of the ANC’s subcommittee on international relations – met with Zanu-PF officials, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, in Harare this week.
This, after at least a dozen protesters died and scores were arrested as police fired live ammunition and tear gas during clashes over the rising cost of living and the fuel price increase.
“We condemn violence wherever it takes place,” Bongo told City Press this week.
“But the briefing we got was that the violence was informed by some elements of regime change. The people who were injured were not taken to Zimbabwean hospitals, but to centres designed by people unknown to the government of Zimbabwe or Zanu-PF.”
Bongo said the ANC was now characterising the violent protests as an element of regime change. “We think that if there are such things happening, government must take control. There are elements that seek to undermine the authority and sovereignty of the government of Zimbabwe.”
This directly contradicts International Relations Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, who has criticised the Zimbabwean government for its “heavy-handed” approach in cracking down on protesters.
“We have expressed our concerns about the levels of violence and how [the police] deal with any challenges on the streets,” Sisulu said last week.
“During our press briefings, every time we have talked about Zimbabwe, we have mentioned the fact that we are unhappy. It only brings negativity to a country that needs a lot of support. They have acknowledged that they have been heavy-handed.”
Bongo said the ANC would lobby other liberation movements on the continent to demand the removal of US-led Western sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.
“We will continue to support Zanu-PF and the government of Zimbabwe. The problems of Zimbabwe will be resolved by the Zimbabweans themselves. We will rally other liberation movements to make sure that we convince both the African Union and the Southern African Development Community to approach the West to lift the sanctions. Zimbabwe is currently unable to trade properly as a result.”
The US and EU imposed sanctions against Zimbabwe in 2000, during former president Robert Mugabe’s rule, accusing him of rigging elections and violating human rights.
The ANC is considering unveiling a package to assist Zimbabwe to get back on its feet. As part of the package, the party will advocate heavily for the lifting of sanctions and will work to mobilise other liberation movements to support Zimbabwe’s development.
“There is a plan to assist Zimbabwe, and not only financially,” said Bongo.
“There must be a package. We have already requested government to meet with the Treasury of Zimbabwe to share ideas about how to structure a package. We are aware of meetings being scheduled between the SA Reserve Bank and Zimbabwe’s Reserve Bank.”
Bongo said the ANC wanted a lasting solution in Zimbabwe to avoid the influx of refugees to South Africa, not a quick fix.
“We need to come up with a strategic plan because whenever anything affects Zimbabwe, it affects the ANC and South Africa directly and indirectly. Whenever there are problems, the majority of Zimbabweans come to our country. As you know, we share a border,” he said.
It is estimated that more than a million Zimbabweans live in South Africa – hence the need to involve them in the resolution of the conflict, concluded Bongo. – Citypress/ additional reporting.
Concerned Zimbabwean Citizens Abroad February 2019 The President of Zimbabwe (Mr. ED Mnangagwa) c/o The Zimbabwe High Commission Canberra Australia RE: Stop the brutalisation of civilians by the army and police.
As concerned citizens of Zimbabwe in Australia, in solidarity with all peace loving Zimbabweans across the globe and those on the ground at home, we hereby wish to strongly voice our displeasure at the breakdown of the rule of law and the continued persecution and brutalisation of civilians by the police and the military in our country.
People have been peacefully protesting against the high cost of living. However, your government has responded with brutal force to the recent industrial action following your announcement of a fuel price increase of over 150%. The army and armed police have gone house to house in Harare, Bulawayo and other cities, beating, raping and killing innocent people. It is sickening to see that people are being assaulted and killed by the very same forces that should be protecting them. This amounts to crimes against humanity being committed under your watch.
Many people were shot in cold blood, with at least 15 dead and there is reasonable suspicion that some of the people who remain unaccounted for have been murdered. Harassment and violence on civilians has continued, with at least 23 women and children reportedly being raped and others are still nursing horrific injuries. Some of those who spoke to the media about the rape have been followed up and further harassed.
When challenged about the violence officials from your government have stated that the victims should go and report to the police, a directive that has seen them being arrested and falsely accused of participating in the protests.
Shutting down the internet and access to social media during mass stay away called by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions from 14 to 16 January 2019, allowed the army and police to commit horrendous atrocities under the shroud of secrecy.
It is shameful that you and your government continue to deny all evidence of violence by your forces. We wonder whether, whether as Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces you are still in charge; as such callous heavy handedness does not make sense at all.
The hopes that people carried when you took over from Robert Mugabe have been shattered and have been replaced by dismay, anger and utter revulsion.
We strongly condemn in no uncertain terms, the continued use of the so called bond notes as legal tender; a development which has brought the country to its lowest ebb. This continues to put the majority of Zimbabweans at risk and it is their democratic right to peacefully engage in civil action. Public servants continue to be paid a pittance yet they are
There comes a time when silence is betrayal,” – Martin Luther King Jnr Concerned Zimbabwean Citizens Abroad still expected to work as normal. Your government does not care that these are people with families to look after.
Your ZANU PF party officials and those around you continue to live in opulence while the rest of the population is living in abject poverty and squalor. In view of the above and many other issues, too numerous to detail here, we as Zimbabwean citizens, unequivocally demand that you Mr. President, do the following:
Immediately remove the army from the streets and confine them to their barracks as we are not in a state of war.
Stop the police and state security agents from arbitrarily beating up, arresting and detaining people and from using rape as an instrument of torture.
Investigate and prosecute all incidents of violence against civilians by the Army and Police and punish the culprits not the victims.
Free those detained on trumped up charges, including opposition members of parliament who are being used as scapegoats.
Restore all the basic freedoms as enshrined in the new constitution and allow free democratic space for all citizens.
Implement the nature and spirit of the new constitution to allow people in the diaspora to participate in the electoral process.
Ensure that all workers are duly paid and on time every month and stop the abuse of state resources.
Repeal all draconian legislation which curtails people’s basic freedoms.
Engage all parties in dialogue and pave the way to socio-political and economic reforms that will improve the quality of life for all Zimbabweans.
Ensure that ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’ in principle by stamping out corruption and designing policies that promote peace and boost investor confidence.
Sincerely
Felix Machiridza
On behalf of
The Concerned Zimbabwean Citizens Abroad
IPThere comes a time when silence is betrayal.” – Martin Luther King Jnr
Vice President Costantino Chiwenga who is reportedly in South Africa where he was airlifted to seek emergency medical attention used to go to China before he moved from the military into government, raising eyebrows over his relationship with the Asian giant.
Posting on Twitter, Professor Moyo said the decision to stop going to China revealed a fallout with China, once his preferred destination for medication for a long time.
In the past General Chiwenga used to be airlifted to China on medical emergency for treatment. That has changed since the November 2017 military coup. The emergency medical airlifts are now to South Africa; previously Joburg & now reportedly Cape Town. Is there a Chinese fallout? pic.twitter.com/dGbii1iwkm
By Farai D Hove | The man who once fired all nurses, all junior doctors, and is happy to see his own doctors get paid a paltry $86,00 per month, Constantino Chiwenga has been flown to a South African hospital.
Emmerson Mnangagwa’s deputy was missing in church Sunday morning after being airlifted to Capetown in an emergency.
Chiwenga who was the second man who refused to allow the late MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai to become President and of late the winner of the 2018 elections, Nelson Chamisa, is suffering a condition said to be from food poisoning. A South African preacher claimed he was bewitched, and a recent medical investigation seen by ZimEye found that he likely caused his own hurt by venturing into skin lightening creams which cause extreme agitation including horrific burning sensations.
Sources told ZimEye “Mnangagwa spent hours in a panic yesterday after Chiwenga’s health took a toll.”
He was admitted at Groote Schuur Hospital in Capetown.
Last October the government spokesman George Charamba claimed he was suffering from 1980s injuries from the war of liberation.
A source told ZimEye.com, “Chiwenga is admitted at this hospital.
“Can you make a live so that we encourage Zimbos in Cape Town to go and demonstrate so that he go back and get treatment at Parirenyatwa Hospital. This is sickening. They abuse and kill our people. They destroy the healthcare sector but they use state funds to get treatment in SA.”
By Own Correspondent| A report by ZimLive reports that Vice President Chiwenga was airlifted to South Africa yesterday, 2 February, in what has been described as a medical emergency.
A top government official is said to have revealed that the former army general is in bad shape and that government yesterday went into panic.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday also failed to attend his Mt Darwin Thank You rally with hos spokeserson George Charamba saying he was in no show because of other commitments where he was on a diplomatic offensive.
The event was then addressed by Vice President Kembo Mohadi.
DA leader Mmusi Maimane’s planned trip to Zimbabwe this week could be over before it’s begun, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s office saying he will be booted out as soon as he touches down in Zimbabwe.
Maimane, pictured, is seeking a meeting with Mnangagwa, but presidential spokesperson George Charamba told the Sunday Times he would be “thrown out” if he tried to set foot in Zimbabwe.
“We relate to the South African government and have no business talking to an opposition party, which is a minority party for that matter,”
Charamba said. “If he [Maimane] tries to come here he will be thrown out and will not be allowed to come into the country. We are a sovereign state and not a banana republic. Why can’t he deal with issues in his own party instead of pointing fingers?”
In May 2017, Maimane was deported from Zambia after going there to attend the treason trial of opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema.
Last week, Maimane got into Mnangagwa’s bad books by saying he would approach the International Criminal Court and the UN to request their intervention in Zimbabwe’s political and human rights crisis.
Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the DA leader was seeking attention. “It is regrettable that Maimane has assumed an aggressive posture for the gallery,” she said.
Maimane told the Sunday Times yesterday he was still waiting for a response to a letter he sent to Mnangagwa last week.
Asked if he would defy the threats to turn him away, the DA leader said: “They must write to me formally and make me aware of their plans to deport me.”
In his letter to Mnangagwa, Maimane said he planned to travel to Harare in his capacity as chair of the Southern African Partnership for Democratic Change (SAPDC), which represents opposition parties in the region.
“In light of the deteriorating situation in Zimbabwe, I intend to head up an SAPDC fact-finding mission,” he wrote.
Harare, February, 3,2019-The Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe(GMAZ) has noted the recent increase in bread prices.These bread price increases are however not in anyway associated with flour cost drivers as the product(flour) supply price to bakers has remained constant.
Flour supplies to bakers has,however remained suppressed due to the non-availability of foreign currency to bring in imported wheat which is still held in Beira.
Issued by GMAZ Media and Public Relations Manager
Garikai Chaunza.
By Own Correspondent| Spokesperson for the Thokozani Khupe led MDC Linda Masarira has urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to let the media run in a non partisan manner if it is to report factually.
Masarira said this in response to Mnangagwa’s tweet that he was appalled by the SkyNews report revealing security sector brùtality on civilians.
Said Masarira:
I suppose we have a President who is not concerned about the welfare of the people he purports to lead? Let @ZBCNewsonline run independently and in a non partisan manner so that you don't rely on Sky news on things happening in your country under your watch. Be real Mr President
By Nomusa Garikai| Mnangagwa says he will not talk to MDC Alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa, until the latter acknowledges Mnangagwa as the legitimately elected president.
“I have never refused to talk and that is why after I came into office, you have seen me talking to all people from students, industry, the church, political parties and even traditional leaders. We continue to talk for the good of our country and my door is open. I, however, do not understand how he (Chamisa) would want to talk to me when he claims I am illegitimate. It implies that the talks will be illegitimate. I don’t want to see myself exchanging words with Chamisa, I don’t want to sink to that level. I leave all this to you,” said Mnangagwa.
This is just nonsensical.
If Mnangagwa is refusing to talk to Chamisa because the latter has said Mnangagwa was illegitimate, then why is Mnangagwa talking to the EU, the Americans and many, many other nations? These nations have all condemned last July’s elections too and have never accept this Zanu PF regime as legitimate.
Mnangagwa and Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube have been out begging the West, especially the Paris Club, IMF and WB, for financial assistance but have returned empty handed. Zimbabwe is a pariah state ruled by corrupt and vote rigging thugs and no investors want to deal with pariah states!
As long as Zimbabwe remains a pariah state there is not going to be any meaningful economic recovery, period.
In his boastful moments Nelson Chamisa has claimed that he has the key to unlock Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy and the economy. This was nothing more than the proverbial frog claiming to put out the forest fire with its punny fart!
Political legitimacy is derived from winning the majority votes in an election that is free, fair and credible. How anyone would judge last July elections as a free, fair and credible electoral process beggars belief.
The regime denied 3 million Zimbabweans in the diaspora the vote; compared to 2.4 million Mnangagwa claims voted for him. ZEC failed to release something as basic as a verified voters’ roll for Pete’s sake!
We are to assume Chamisa will sweep all these blatant vote rigging antics under the carpet, cleanse the electoral process of all its flaws and illegalities, and declare the illegitimate Mnangagwa legitimate. Who is Chamisa to do all that! “Chamisa chiyi panyama yehuku!” (What part is Chamisa on a chicken!) as one would say in Shona.
There will be no meaningful economic recovery in Zimbabwe until the nation ends the curse of rigged elections and pariah state. None! If Mnangagwa believes Chamisa can wave his magic wand and lift the curse then he must even more naive than he looks!
When Mnangagwa rigged last year’s elections he was cocksure he would go on to revive the Zimbabwe economy. It is now as clear as day that instead of meaningful economic recovery the nation’s economy is sinking deeper and deeper into the abyss. Worse still, it is also as clear as day that Mnangagwa is resorting to the use of brute force to silence dissent and all those crying about the economic hardships.
Zimbabwe’s economic situation with unemployment at 90%, 3/4 of the population living on US$1.00 or less a day, etc. is unsustainable. And no amount of brutal repression is going to stop people demanding meaningful change. Zanu PF cannot expect people to suffer and die in silence like sheep in a slaughter house.
The most rational, peaceful and quickest way to end Zimbabwe’s economic and political nightmare is for Zanu PF to step down. The regime rigged last July’s elections, it is illegitimate and should stop holding the nation to ransom for even one day longer!
There is nothing to talk about with Mnangagwa and his junta friends; they should just step down.
Chamisa and his MDC Alliance friends must step aside too. They have had many golden opportunities to implement the democratic reforms which would have end Zanu PF’s reign of terror and they have wasted them all.
The nation needs the political space to appoint an interim administration that will be tasked to implement all the democratic reforms agreed at the onset of the 2008 GNU. The administration will lay the democratic foundation for the free, just and prosperous Zimbabwe the nation has been dying for all this years.
Jane Mlambo| Amid revelations by the Zanu-PF Harare Province that they are fully behind the move to demolish illegal structures in the capital city and Chitungwiza, it is now clear that this could have been a well orchestrated plan to punish urban for voting the opposition MDC Alliance Presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa.
According to the Sunday Mail, Zanu PF inter-district meetings held yesterday in Harare’s 29 constituencies, all expressed excitement at the decision that has been widely condemned by the opposition and humanitarian groups.
Zanu PF and Emmerson Mnangagwa performed dismally in Harare and Bulawayo pocketing on one seat from the two capitals.
Zanu-PF Harare provincial chairperson Cde Goodwills Masimirembwa told Sunday Mail that they fully support Government’s decision to demolish tuck shops as they were behind the wanton price increase of basic commodities.
He added that the meetings were organised to show the opposition that the ruling was alive, something that does not add up considering that the party has been rejected by urban voters whose livelihoods have been affected by Mnangagwa’s policies.
the last time @UebertAngel telephoned me (when he clearly knew I was the last person to his favour), Bushiri was in trouble and he used @Mathuthu. Angel offered a bribe, and now last night @acielumumba calls me on Mudzanire's behalf and again it was hours Bushiri being arrested.
By Own Correspondent| Theft of ZESA property is on the increase amid revelations that the country’s power utility company lost $3.7 Million worth of equipment to thieves and vandals in 2018.
The loss also has further downstream losses due to the stoppage in productivity resulting from blackouts after infrastructure is vandalised.
ZESA Holdings spokesperson Fullard Gwasira told a local publication:
Zesa lost about $3,7 million due to theft and vandalism and equipment worth about $500 000 was recovered in 2018. In most of the cases, the criminals targeted copper conductors, transformer windings and transformer oil.
We have seen that the theft of our property is on the increase and there are measures that we have introduced such as 24 hours security at our big sub-stations.-StateMedia
By Own Correspondent| Government has revealed plans to repossess idle mining claims whose owners have not been forthcoming in operationalising them.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando said there are some owned claims which have not been exploited since the early seventies and such claims will be targeted.
Said Chitando:
Government is coming up with regulations to enforce the “use it or lose it” principle. The background to this is that we do have entities which held vast pieces of mining concessions, which are not being utilised.
In one particular province we have an entity, which has been holding a rich mining concession since the 1970s and all they do is, every year, pay renewal fees for that concession and with the economic development thrust we have for Vision 2030, surely this can’t continue. . . .
it is only fair for the country that such concessions be made available to those who have use for them.
We have advised the Chamber of Mines of Government’s intention, we have asked them to come up with their own views on how the issue should be tackled and as Government, we will also be fine-tuning our course of action.
By Dorrothy Moyo| Former Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi faced deportation calls from South Africa after being caught on camera fit as a fiddle at a time when it has been claimed that he has died.
The assumption at the close of day yesterday was that the former Masvingo strongman had faked illness, the “ED Gwanda Poison” style, in similar ways Mnangagwa used fake poison to install himself president in 2017.
While a comment could not be obtained from the man himself, scores of senior ZANU PF heavyweights yesterday alleged he had faked illness in order to buy court time.
He is wanted in Zimbabwe where his case for alleged corruption is being heard in court.
Other sources criticised his lawyer Job Sikhala.
“Saka akanyepa ka Sikhala arikupi?,” alleged a ZANU PF Masvingo war veteran yesterday.
By Own Correspondent| Addressing party supporters at the ZNu Pd “Thank You” rally at Mt Darwin School in Mashonaland Central, Vice President Kembo Mohadi said government will provide loans to retailers who maintain cheap prices.
Following the fuel price increases coupled by the foreign currency shortages, prices of basic goods have skyrocketed worsenkng the plight of ordinary citizens.
Said Mohadi:
Basic commodities like cooking oil, sugar, salt, rice mealie-meal, milk and flour; the prices are being looked into so that they become affordable to the generality of the public.
Government is equally putting in place loan facilities for retailers who will maintain cheap prices. These will be supported by Government to make sure that their prices remain low.
As Government, we are engaged with industry for a more stable price regime. We are seized with this matter. We are a Government that is responsive to the people’s needs.
We are concerned with overcharging of goods and the constant hikes of prices of basic commodities. We understand the struggles that you are facing and we will step in with corrective measures.
By Own Correspondent| Former politburo member and cabinet minister Jonathan Moyo, who is in self-imposed exile following the November 27 soft coup, said on Saturday that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s failure to attend his ‘Thank You’ Rally in Mt Darwin shows that all is not well.
Writing on Twitter on Saturday, Moyo said:
When you see George Charamba running around like this on a Saturday, bet your last bond note he’s managing an EMERGENCY. Something has happened or is happening. Mnangagwa might have been making EMERGENCY phone calls, but certainly not to heads of state or government. Watch the space!
Mnangagwa was expected to address a ZANU PF gathering in Mt Darwin, Mashonaland Central Province on Saturday afternoon but failed to turn up for the rally. Presidential spokesperson George Charamba said Mnangagwa’s no-show at the rally was because he was on a diplomatic offensive.
Said Charamba:
His Excellency the President, E.D. Mnangagwa, today, Saturday, spent the day at his Munhumutapa Offices from where he made contact with a number of Heads of State and Government from the region and on the continent.
The prime objective was for him to brief his colleagues on the situation obtaining in the country following opposition-instigated violent demonstrations which affected the country two weeks ago. He also received reports from returning special envoys he had dispatched to selected countries in the region and on the African continent for the same mission.
the last time @UebertAngel telephoned me (when he clearly knew I was the last person to his favour), Bushiri was in trouble and he used @Mathuthu. Angel offered a bribe, and now last night @acielumumba calls me on Mudzanire's behalf and again it was hours Bushiri being arrested.
The latest of Constantino Chiwenga’s intervention in the December doctors’ strike has seen the government resolve to open its own pharmacies which will offer fair pricing for medicines.
The pharmacies will be opened as part of National Pharmaceuticals Company (NatPharm). Government first announced its plans to open pharmacies in December
The state media said private pharmacies have been overcharging despite being supplied medicines by NatPharm, which it said has been importing medication in bulk and dispensing it to local pharmacies at local currency prices.
Health and Child Care Minister Obadiah Moyo said of the new initiative by the government: “we are busy gathering the medicines and also identifying the places to put up the pharmacies. We have instructed Natpharm to commence identification of the buildings where the pharmacies will be. We want it done as soon as possible, the sooner the better.”
The pharmaceutical Association of Zimbabwe president, Portifa Mwendera said:
O”ur biggest drug manufacturer in Zimbabwe is Varichem and at the moment they are asking for payment in US dollars.
“If you get a product which is in RTGS or bond notes, the prices have gone up significantly compared to what existed say last October. Pharmacies are using the same pricing they are charged by the wholesaler or the manufacturer.”
Government is working on safety nets to shield vulnerable members of society against price distortions on basic commodities and will soon unveil a well-packaged strategy to ensure goods reflect their real value, Vice President Kembo Mohadi has said.
VP Mohadi was speaking at Zanu-PF’s second post-election Thank-You Rally at Mt Darwin High School, Mashonaland Central province, yesterday attended by thousands of supporters. He said it was worrying that Zimbabwe had over 35 000 civic organisations, most of which were engaging in underhand political activities designed to effect regime change.
He stood in for President Emmerson Mnangagwa. VP Mohadi said authorities were crafting a cocktail of measures to ensure availability of basic goods at fair prices, including extensive support for retailers.
“Basic commodities like cooking oil, sugar, salt, rice, mealie-meal, milk and flour; the prices are being looked into so that they become affordable to the generality of the public. Government is equally putting in place loan facilities for retailers who will maintain cheap prices.
These will be supported by Government to make sure that their prices remain low.”
Government would also work with industry in implementing the basic commodities price stabilisation initiative.
“As Government, we are engaged with industry for a more stable price regime. We are seized with this matter. We are a Government that is responsive to the people’s needs. We are concerned with overcharging of goods and the constant hikes of prices of basic commodities. We understand the struggles that you are facing and we will step in with corrective measures.”
VP Mohadi said the basic commodities programme was aimed at providing relief to the public in the same manner as the recent introduction of buses for urban commuters. He told the gathering that more buses were being mobilised to provide cheap transport in rural areas.
“There are 500 buses that will be coming from Belarus and another 200 buses from South Africa. The resuscitation of Zupco was long overdue,” he said. VP Mohadi said NGOs would not win in their attempts to destabilise the country, despite their huge number.
“There are 35 000 NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is such a high number for a very small country such as Zimbabwe. They are more than our own national army. We do not know what they are looking for. They claim to be non-Governmental, but in reality they represent foreign governments that have intentions to take over the country.
“We will not fold our hands and let that happen. We are aware that some of our economic challenges are a result of the machinations of these NGOs. Let’s remain strong and united and not allow our country to be destabilised. Zimbabwe is our country and we ought to defend it against the works of our enemies.”
Vice President Mohadi, who is also Zanu-PF Second Secretary, said the country’s strategic grain reserve had enough stocks to provide food security for seven months. He said harvest from the 2018-2019 agricultural season would boost the stocks.
“I am aware that here in Mashonaland Central there are some areas that are drought-prone. I can assure you that no one will die of hunger anywhere in the country. Minister Perrance Shiri is in charge of agriculture and every Tuesday he briefs Cabinet on the food security situation while the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare is in charge of the distribution of grain. We have enough grain to last the next seven months.” Government planned to build more hospitals countrywide and increase the number of cancer screening centres, he said.
Government would also build more schools with requisite learning material and infrastructure. The Vice President thanked the people in Mashonaland Central province for resoundingly voting Zanu-PF in last year’s elections.
“You demonstrated loyalty and commitment to Zanu-PF. You demonstrated unparalleled patriotism as you supported President Mnangagwa. We will remain grateful,” said VP Mohadi.
He paid tribute to the late national hero and music icon Dr Oliver Mtukudzi who hailed from the province.
In her address, Zanu-PF national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said Mashonaland Central was a resolute pillar of Zanu PF with a strong bond to the liberation struggle.
“Mashonaland Central is crucial to us. It gave us Mbuya Nehanda and many sons and daughters who died in the war for independence. We were happy that Mashonaland Central rejected to be part of the recent disturbances. We want you to continue on that path so that you defend your flag and your resounding vote.”
Minister Shiri, who is also the most senior Zanu-PF politburo member from Mashonaland Central, said the party’s huge support in the province will not wane. Zanu-PF Mashonaland Central chairperson Kazembe Kazembe said the province was fully behind President Mnangagwa as it had retained all 18 parliamentary seats in last year’s polls. The rally was also attended by Zanu-PF national commissar Dr Engelbert Rugeje, politburo and central committee members, legislators and traditional chiefs among other guests.
MDC-Alliance organising secretary Amos Chibaya appeared in court yesterday facing fresh charges of plotting to overthrow the Government.
Chibaya, who is the MP for Mkoba, was re-arrested on Tuesday afternoon soon after his release from Whawha Remand Prison after he was granted $500 bail on allegations of inciting violence. He appeared before Gweru provincial magistrate Ms Charity Maphosa facing charges of subverting a Constitutional Government.
Chibaya pleaded not guilty. However, Ms Maphosa remanded Chibaya in custody to 11 February. On Thursday the prosecution led by Ms Gracious Rongai had asked for further detention to yesterday. Ms Rongai applied for further detention to allow police to gather more documentation proving the alleged offence against him.
The MP’s lawyer Mr Reginald Chidawanyika had opposed the application for further detention saying it was unconstitutional to have his client arrested based on a news article which has not been verified.
It is the State case that during the period from 16 December to 2 January and at the Midlands provincial offices of MDC-Alliance in Gweru, the accused communicated with Learnmore Magorimbo, the national chairperson for Zimbabwe National Youth Alliance (Ziya), a pressure group mobilising for a nationwide demonstration. The court heard that the alleged communication was done between certain cellphone numbers revealed in court.
On 2 January, Chibaya, the court heard — also communicated with the entire MDC-Alliance supporters by causing the publishing of a news article in a local daily newspaper where he was subverting a Constitutional Government.
As a result of the communications, the court heard that massive violent demonstrations occurred in Mkoba, Mtapa and Ascot high-density suburbs in Gweru and the accused was observed amongst a riotous group.
The court heard that a number of properties were destroyed by demonstrators taking heed of his campaign to overthrow the Government by unconstitutional means.
Meanwhile, Chiwundura Member of Parliament Livingstone Chimina appeared before the same court facing fresh charges of inciting violence and protests. He was remanded in custody to Thursday.- state media
By Own Correspondent| Fire broke out on Saturday afternoon and engulfed part of the theatre ward at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, ZimEye has learnt.
The fire is suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault.
The fire is said to have destroyed some equipment, drugs and patients’ records. Patients were left in a state of shock at the Mbuya Nehanda Maternity ward.
However, there were no casualties as staff and visitors managed to shift babies and expecting mothers.
The Harare City Fire Department reacted quickly to douse the inferno.-StateMedia
I decided to buy my own bicycle in order to cut on my monthly fuel budget. The bicycle also helps reduce body fat & lose weight. Assuming motorists spend at least 10 lt. fuel per day, if 1 million of them decided to use bics for their weekend errands, US$20m/wk would be saved. pic.twitter.com/0QAtn5bhHB
By Own Correspondent| Police recovered three guns and rounds of ammunition that were stolen during the recent violent protests at a joint army, police security checkpoint along the Shurugwi-Zvishavane Highway on Thursday.
The security forces held a joint Press conference following the recent wanton looting and violence that broke out across the country and said they were tracking down rogue elements within the forces alleged to have stolen uniforms and some fire arms.
The Press briefing was followed by the introduction of joint roadblocks by the police and army.
Police in the Midlands Province said a stolen police rifle, serial number, 102, two pistols, a magazine charged with 20 live rounds and a pair of handcuffs were recovered stashed in a boot of a Nissan Almera at a police and army road block along the Shurugwi-Gweru Highway on Wednesday night.
“Two suspects, Advance Tongogara (44), who was driving the car and Israel Chikona (25) were immediately arrested and detained at Shurugwi Police Station under RRB number 3636680,” police said.
Another suspect whose identity was not immediately available yesterday, reportedly got out of their vehicle and took to his heels, escaping under the cover of darkness as soon as he realised that their car was being searched.
Police spokesperson for Midlands Province, Inspector Joel Goko confirmed the incident but referred further questions to national police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi who said he was in a meeting.
Police sources told the State Media that investigations had established that the recovered police rifle was stolen at police base in Matobo.- state media
By Farai D Hove| The disgraced Thokozani Khupe spokesperson, Linda Masarira yesterday released a cut, chop and edit audio recording which patchy file she claimed proves that Crisis Coalition director, Mr Rashid Mahiya has “confirmed” that the MDC was training a militia in Zambia.
But in the very same clip a Mahiya voice soundalike is heard emphasising these are all lies and the brutal regime will look to create scapegoats for their lies. Below is a transcript of the patch Masarira released to ZNC news and broadcast yesterday-
Masarira: ” the training in Zambia yaitaura kuti Chamisa akasahwina tirikufanirwa ku defender vote. Tirikufanirwa kudai. I have got a recording of that thing. Of ma operations arikufanirwa kuitwa achisiyiwa pasina kana trace.”
Mahiya soundalike: Aaah.
But manje you know now you’re putting people at risk.
Masarira: But inini ndini wekutukwa ndichishorwa ndichikanganisirwa image yangu.
Mahiya voice soundalike: “you know what, you’re putting people at risk.”
Mahiya voice soundalike: You’re actually putting people at risk. At the mercy of the regime…
Masarira: Ya, ehee. Saka ivo ka. No Rashid [INTERRUPTING MAHIYA]. You have to be a fair intermediator here.
Whitle side(sic) Ostallos into line. They have to stop their attacks against me. And put a stop to insulting me.
Mahiya soundalike: I will talk to them. But
[INTERRUPTED ]
I have been respecting them for a very long time. But ivo they do not reciprocate.
—————–
SUDDEN CHANGE TONE OF VOICE.
Mahiya soundalike:
There are some things that can be connoted. And this here, with this regime that we are dealing with here akomana ka. The brutality and the way that they are looking for scapegoats, handiti ka. For all these things that are happening. If you what, and if you still believe the things that you believed in before, haaa this lie…”
ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa failed to attend his own ‘Thank You’ Rally scheduled for Mt Darwin on Saturday afternoon.
LIVE video coverage at the scene shows Mnangagwa was nowhere to be seen a and the master of ceremony ended up announcing that his second deputy Kembo Mohadi would take stand as his replacement.
Sources at the function said Mnangagwa’s absence was because “he has other commitments where he is meeting leaders from all over Africa…..they want to know what is going on in our country because Zimbabwe is a jewel.”
Today was meant to be Mnangagwa’s first public rally since the brutal military crackdown launched in January following his unprecedented fuel price hikes.
By Own Correspondent| Addressing delegates at Mt Darwin High school in Mashonaland Central on Saturday at the Zanu Pf “Thank You” rally, Vice President Kembo Mohadi has said government will soon unveil strategies to ensure the availability of basic commodities in the country.
VP Mohadi said this while addressing party cadres at the party’s “Thank You” rally where he stood in for President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mnangagwa failed to attend the rally due to pressing commitments where he is entertaining international and regional leaders who are in the country over the current “crisis”.
Said VP Mohadi:
“Government will come up with interventions for the production and supply of basic commodities such as cooking oil, rice and others with a view to make them affordable to all. This will cushion consumers against overcharging by retailers.”
Happy birthday @nelsonchamisa May the Grace of the good Lord be with you all the days of your life. May God grant you Solomon's wisdom so that you are able to discern what is best for this country beyond power battles. Beyond the political curtains let us put Zimbabweans first. pic.twitter.com/8WyYQByPUe
the last time @UebertAngel telephoned me (when he clearly knew I was the last person to his favour), Bushiri was in trouble and he used @Mathuthu. Angel offered a bribe, and now last night @acielumumba calls me on Mudzanire's behalf and again it was hours Bushiri being arrested.
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa today missed his second “Thank You” rally in Mashonaland Central over pressing commitments with regional leaders over the Zimbabwean crisis.
Said the party’s national chairperson Oppah Zvipange Muchinguri Kashiri:
“There are those among us bent on effecting regime change…..President Mnangagwa has delegated his esteemed deputy Vice President Kembo Mohadi to address us as guest of honor because he has other commitments where he is meeting leaders from all over Africa…..they want to know what is going on in our country because Zimbabwe is a jewel.”
By Own Correspondent| Zimbabwe Teachers Union (ZIMTA) officials have been accused of forcing teachers in Binga and Tsholotsho to bunk lessons and join a strike set to start on February 5.
Reports by the State Media allege that the move is politically motivated as suspected MDC officials are using the ZIMTA branded vehicles to intimidatte teachers to heed the call to go on strike.
Tsholotsho Rural District Council chairperson councillor Manger Sobane revealed that ZIMTA is indeed active in the area.
He said:
Zimta deployed vehicles and personnel into the district and their mission was to close schools. On Wednesday these officials were forcing our teachers to stop teaching and go home.
What bothered us is we knew that Government was in talks with civil servants regarding their salaries, so we don’t expect these officials to act that way.
However, ZIMTA said that it was not coercing teachers to go on strike, but rather, moving around communicating the organisation’s plans to go on strike next week.
I do not know of such allegations of our officials forcing teachers out of schools. I believe the visits could have been discussing memos signed by Zimta and PTUZ and passing on the message as discussed that we are going on industrial strike on the 5th of this month.
On Thursday the Zimbabwe Teachers’ union and the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe issued a joint statement announcing their intention to go on strike starting on February 5.-StateMedia
Nelson Chamisa: Last year I lost my mother at the beginning of election season. I did NOT tell Nelson Chamisa she had passed,
Patson Dzamara called me and told me they where delaying their trip to a rally out of town & would come together to console me for a few minutes, their protocol security was already on the way.
They spent the full afternoon. Nelson took me to the side and hugged me like a brother would, he told me he was so sorry prayed for me, till now I don’t understand he was able to make people so happy at the funeral.
A year before that I was in court for disciplining Robert Mugabe and couldn’t afford a lawyer, he found me in Thabani Mpofus chamber and told Advocate Mpofu not to worry he would come represent me till I sorted myself out. I am not an MDC supporter, I actually don’t like them stereki, just mbinjana, but I acknowledge leader wavo anoda vanhu, that’s why vanhu vachimuda.
It is my prayer that I can one day return the grace you have shown me, that one day I can do for you more than you have done for me. To the political Maverick of politics in Zimbabwe Nelson Chamisa ??Head Bowed
By Own Correspondent| Government has dismissed media reports that the Zimbabwe Republic Police was tracking down 25 soldiers involved in looting.
Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema said that the story was published by media houses pushing for ‘regime change’.
In a press statement released on Friday night, Mathema said:
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage has noted with grave concern an increase of media groups whose agenda is now very clear. They are pushing for regime change in Zimbabwe.
The story in the Newsday edition of 31st January 2019 cannot go unchallenged, which story is reproduced from The Guardian. The headline on the Newsday states that, ‘Police dossier nails army in rights abuses . . . 25 soldiers sought in looting case’, which creates a misconception that the Zimbabwe Republic Police is desperately pursuing leads to arrest 25 soldiers who have committed a crime.
This story was written and completed on the basis of sources and in order to give it credence a comment was then conveniently sought from the police. It is clear from the onset that the motive was to have an official comment from the police irrespective of whether police confirmed or not, thus justifying their story.
… We wish therefore to categorically dismiss these claims and challenge those with genuine complaints to report to the police.
The government has continued to strenuously deny reports that security agents were involved in looting and torture of members of the public during nationwide protests.-StateMedia
By Own Correspondent| A farmer in Chemagora village, Gokwe, was killed in revenge over a land dispute on Friday.
The farmer who had earlier on reportedly shot and killed a member of a group of illegal settlers on his farm identified as George Jongwe was killed in revenge by the illegal settlers.
The incident was confirmed by the Chemagora Small Scale Commercial Farmers’ Union chairperson in an interview with the State Media.
He said:
He had won a High Court case for the illegal invaders to be evicted from his farm. The High Court order was enforced this week on Tuesday.
Evicted invaders then came back in the early hours of this morning (yesterday) and attacked him with machetes, axes. He reacted in self-defence and shot and killed one before he was himself overpowered and killed.
Invasions of our farms are organised and there are ringleaders and land barons who benefited financially by illegally settling people here.
Midlands Provincial Administrator, Mr Abiot Marongwe, confirmed the alleged murder of the farmer. He revealed that he had sent the DA, a Mr Gwatiringa to investigate and compile a report.-StateMedia
By Own Correspondent| MDC leader Nelson Chamisa turnes 41 today.
Said Chamisa while appreciating the birthday messages from friends, family and Zimbabweans from all walks of life:
FEBRUARY 2 seems like the best day to be born.On a Thursday morning in 1978,unto this world a child was born and a bundle of energy was unleashed.Since then,mighty exploits and scores.I thank God for the grace and providence.Thank you all my dear friends for sweetening this life.If you’re a February baby, you’re certainly in good company. I share this birth month with many of you Februarians, including Robert Gabriel Mugabe, Winky D, Peter Ndlovu, Cara Black, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, Michael Jordan, Steve Jobs, Rosa Parks, Elizabeth Taylor Jennifer Aniston and Rupiah Banda!GOD BLESS YOU!!
By Own Correspondent| A march organised by lawyers in Midlands was on Wednesday crushed by riot police.
The lawyers had however notified the police of the planned march as required under the Public Order and Security Act.
The march was in protest over the blanket denial of bail by magistrates to MDC MPs arrested on allegations of public violence among other grievances.
The lawyers were however dispersed by police in full riot gear and equipped with water cannons.
While speaking to a local publication, Gweru Lawyers’ Association spokesperson, Esau Mandipa said:
We condemn the behaviour of the police because they violated our right to peaceful demonstration.
We notified them two days before and only on the day of the march that is when they came to us saying we could not march because police were understaffed due to the national clean-up campaign where deployments had been made.
We are saddened by the heavy-handedness of the police. At my office, for example, there were 10 riot cops manning the entrance for unknown reasons.
Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Joel Goko could not be reached for comment while national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi expressed ignorance fo the incident.-Newsday
Samuel Pazanga recently pictured with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Kembo Mohadi
A 35-year old Zimbabwean athlete based in South Africa, Samuel Pazanga, was recently found dead with his body in a decomposing state. Pazanga, who was attached to Mr Price Athletics Club, had been missing for a week.
National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe president Tendai Tagara confirmed the incident and said the association was shocked by the tragedy.
“We have received the sad news of the passing on of Samuel Pazanga who was now based in South Africa. He was a reserved, hardworking and respectful young man. I knew him personally because I once coached him in Mutare,” said Tagara.
Pazanga, however, never represented the country in any international events.
Tagara said his association had written to the Sports Commission notifying them of this incident and due procedures will be followed in the repatriation of the body.
The Sports Commission director for sports and recreation development, Joseph Muchechetere, confirmed receiving the letter. The veteran administrator said it was a sad development.
“The athlete is supposed to have been cleared to participate in South Africa by NAAZ and then the procedure to repatriate the body will take place through the Government,” he said.
By Own Correspondent| Arrested prophet Sherpherd Bushiri’s spokesperson, Zimbabwean journalist Maynard Manyowa, has made sensational claims that Bushiri is being punished for refusing to pay “blackmailers” US$1 million.
Manyowa said the charges against Bushiri were not only fake but were being instituted by those who had in the past tri3d to extort money from Bushiri.
Below is the full text of Manyowa’s statement;
This morning, as we sat in the CRL Commission waiting on the outcome of their Section 7 investigation, members of the HAWKS picked up Prophet Bushiri and charged him over a $1.1 million USD transaction involving his own money.
The merits of that case are a story for another day. For now i want to draw collective attention to the fact that for over a month now, we have been accused of being non-compliant, for being responsible for the stampede that killed our very own beloved family members, among other things.
The very same commission, a chapter 9 institution, empowered by one of the most powerful constitutions in the world, today ruled that there was no wrong doing on our part.
While we welcomed this vindication we did not celebrate it – because we are still mourning about the passing of members of our family.
However, i want to draw your collective memory to the last month. All the accusations leveled against us? What became of these?
We are now facing a whole new barrage of more accusations. As i said. Their merit will be tested in court and fully.
Since 2013, we have faced one assault and attack after the other. We have survived each.
From assassination attempts. From extortion attempts. Fake charges. None of those have stuck.
I want to avoid going into much details about what happened today. From being asked why a black man would buy a private jet to the guys who were asking for $1 million USD to make false charges go away.
So for today, i will remain quiet. But i do know one thing, like many of all these mountains we have faced, this will be overcome.
Mark my words!
I will leave you with this video, of the prophecy my father gave, about this very same day. He prophesied the day and he prophesied the outcome.
If he was right about the event he is right about the outcome.
Pretoria – Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church members have taken to social media platforms following the arrest of charismatic “prophet” Shepherd Bushiri, whom they affectionately call “major one”, sharing messages of support and solidarity.
Some of the devotees went the extra mile – already casting aspersions on the validity of the serious charges of fraud and money laundering. Many have labelled the arrest of Bushiri and his wife a “persecution”.
With the 2019 general elections approaching, award-winning South African gospel musician Swazi Dlamini – a well-known Bushiri devotee – wrote on her official Facebook page with 150 000 followers that the arrest was tantamount to persecution of Christians.
“I will not vote in a country that persecutes Christians, never again! My vote is my right,” she wrote.
The message had received almost 3000 emoji reactions and more than 600 comments by Saturday morning.
Rachel Ramaru replied, “That’s my prayer that all daughters and sons and all who support prophet Bushiri do not vote.”
Doreen Kwetsi replied, “How can I vote to be denied my right as a Christian to worship… never. I’m keeping my X”.
Neo Precious Babeile, however, had other plans with her vote. “No my brothers and sisters, you vote and vote them out coz ECG has numbers”.
Bushiri’s spokesman Maynard Manyowa also led the charge on social media, writing on his Facebook page that numerous previous attempts by certain individuals to “assassinate, extort, and bring fake charges” against Bushiri had come to nought.
“I want to avoid going into much detail about what happened [on Friday]. From being asked why a black man would buy a private jet to the guys who were asking for $1 million to make false charges go away. So for today, I will remain quiet, but I do know one thing, like many of these mountains we have faced, this will be overcome,” Manyowa wrote.
Pretoria-based media personality and Bushiri devotee Nobuhle Jesicca Banda wrote, “Our father in the Lord has prepared us for all manner of battle and his words are engrained in our hearts as we witness this phase of the journey unfolding. It is the prophetic movement evolving. Those who know have discerned the hour. This is our prophet, this is our day… this is our generation! We are not moved because we are ECG,” she wrote in support.
Twitter was abuzz with messages of support for and against Bushiri. Other followers began the “#FreeBushiri” hashtag.
A statement released by the ECG church on Friday evening alleged that police officers – later identified as members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) – “stormed” the Sparkling Waters Hotel in Rustenburg at around 7 am.
The Hawks also said in a statement on Friday evening that a “prophet” and his wife had been arrested, without naming the pair.
According to the statement released by Bushiri’s church, “They took the prophet and our mother prophetess Mary Bushiri in handcuffs to Pretoria. They have charged our father with fraud and money laundering. As you will remember, from last year, we have struggled with reports that our father was guilty. We have repeatedly learnt from different media houses that we were under investigation. At some point accurate reports pointed out the fact that certain people within the police had demanded bribes amounting up to R10 million,” the statement said.
Hawks spokesman Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said in his statement, “The Hawks’ case against the pair concerns alleged offences of fraud, money laundering, and contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA) committed from 2015 in relation to Exchange Control Regulations related to foreign currency in an amount of $1 147 200.”
Mulaudzi said the couple, who run several business enterprises in South Africa and abroad, were expected to appear in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crime Court on Monday.
Correspondent|MDC Deputy Treasurer-General Chalton Hwende, who is hiding in Namibia, is seeking the assistance of Namibian police to stop the possible “abduction and rendition” to Zimbabwe in the ongoing crackdown against opposition activists.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, party leader Nelson Chamisa described the crackdown as aimed at decimating his party.
“In the course of January 2019, our client was informed, through reliable sources, that members of the Zimbabwean intelligence agency, namely the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) travelled to Namibia to abduct and rendition him to Zimbabwe where he is apparently wanted for treason, incitement to commit public violence and other charges,” read the letter.
“According to the information, the members of the CIO already arrived in Namibia on or before 28 January 2019.”
In the letter, Hwende’s lawyers alleged that armed security officers had surrounded the homes of senior officials and MDC legislators.
Hwende claims there was a list in which his name appears of wanted persons and claims he would not receive a fair trial in Zimbabwe.
“We accordingly seek the protection of our client against what will be an unlawful abduction and the possible rendition of our client to Zimbabwe at the hands of the Zimbabwean Central Intelligence Organisation,” the lawyer wrote.
Hwende’s lawyers said should their client fail to be afforded the necessary protection, he would approach the Namibian High Court on an urgent basis for an appropriate order, including interdict.
On another note, MDC party’s spokesperson Jacob Mafume said they condemned yet another arrest of their organising secretary Amos Chibaya, who was nabbed moments after his release on bail by the High Court in Masvingo.
“We view both arrests of the organizer to be political, they are all about persecution and nothing to do with prosecution. The arrest is abuse of both law enforcement and the justice delivery system which is against the Constitution,” Mafume said.
Own Correspondent|Early Friday morning Malawian religious leader, Shepherd Bushiri was arrested in South Africa on charges of fraud and money laundering. Bushiri will spend the weekend in police cells in South Africa and will appear in court in Pretoria on Monday.
Bushiri’s spokesperson, the Zimbabwean journalist Maynard Manyowa, has publicly defended Bushiri saying the religious leader is under persecution.
Manyowa also said that Bushiri predicted his own arrest and knew this day would come and be overcome.
Here’s the full text of a post by Manyowa:
This morning, as we sat in the CRL Commission waiting on the outcome of their Section 7 investigation, members of the HAWKS picked up Prophet Bushiri and charged him over a $1.1 million USD transaction involving his own money.
The merits of that case are a story for another day. For now i want to draw collective attention to the fact that for over a month now, we have been accused of being non-compliant, for being responsible for the stampede that killed our very own beloved family members, among other things.
The very same commission, a chapter 9 institution, empowered by one of the most powerful constitutions in the world, today ruled that there was no wrong doing on our part.
While we welcomed this vindication we did not celebrate it – because we are still mourning about the passing of members of our family.
However, i want to draw your collective memory to the last month. All the accusations leveled against us? What became of these?
We are now facing a whole new barrage of more accusations. As i said. Their merit will be tested in court and fully.
Since 2013, we have faced one assault and attack after the other. We have survived each.
From assassination attempts. From extortion attempts. Fake charges. None of those have stuck.
I want to avoid going into much details about what happened today. From being asked why a black man would buy a private jet to the guys who were asking for $1 million USD to make false charges go away.
So for today, i will remain quiet. But i do know one thing, like many of all these mountains we have faced, this will be overcome.
Mark my words!
I will leave you with this video, of the prophecy my father gave, about this very same day. He prophesied the day and he prophesied the outcome.
If he was right about the event he is right about the outcome.
TWO police officers stationed at Entumbane Police Station have been arrested for allegedly stealing two gas tanks and several cellphones which were part of the goods looted during the recent violent protests in Bulawayo.
Thulani Nyathi (33) of Lobengula West and Victor Peter Munondo (28) of Entumbane suburb yesterday appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Ms Sithembiso Ncube facing theft charges. They were remanded in custody to today for bail ruling.
Allegations are that a report was made at Entumbane Police Station indicating that there were looted goods that had been hidden in a broken down car at Entumbane Bus Terminus.
Two police officers who were initially sent to investigate came back empty handed.
VNyathi and Munondo then allegedly went to the Bus Terminus and arm-twisted a security guard manning the premises into showing them where the goods were hidden under the pretext that they were sent by their superiors to recover the loot.
They then took the looted goods, but did not surrender the loot at Entumbane Police Station.
Prosecuting, Mr Alfonce Makonese said on January 25 at around 8AM, police received a tip off that stolen goods looted during protests were hidden in a broken down vehicle at a car park at Entumbane Bus Terminus.
The Entumbane Police Station Officer-in-Charge, only identified as Chief Inspector Mpofu, then assigned his juniors to investigate.
“On January 26 at around 10AM, one Assistant Inspector Nkomo and a Constable Mavunga proceeded to Entumbane Bus Terminus. Upon arrival they failed to locate anyone and returned empty handed,” said Mr Makonese.
On the same day at around 6PM, Nyathi and Munondo went to Entumbane Bus Terminus and found a security guard manning the parking area.
“On arrival at Entumbane Bus Terminus’ car park, the accused persons introduced themselves to the security guard as Detective Constables Maveya and Moyo.
They lied to him that they had been sent by their superiors to collect the stolen goods. They searched a broken down vehicle at the car park and recovered two 5kg gas tanks, eight cellphones and six bottles of battery water,” said Mr Makonese.
They then endorsed their falsified names in the car park occurrence book on entry number 68/29.
The two allegedly lied to the security guard that they were taking the loot to Entumbane Police Station.
The court heard that the two cops did not surrender the stolen goods at the police station.
“On the same day at around 10PM, Assistant Inspector Nkomo later sent Constables Ndava and Chakabveyo to revisit the bus terminus and they found the same security guard who showed them the occurrence book depicting that goods had already been collected by the accused persons,” said Mr Makonese.
Investigations were conducted and the security guard managed to positively identify the accused persons in a parade leading to their arrest and subsequent recovery of the stolen loot.
Nyathi and Munondo, who are both self-actors, yesterday applied for bail pending trial. They argued that if granted bail they would not abscond, saying they were family men of fixed abode.
The State opposed bail, saying there was no guarantee that if granted bail the two men would not abscond. The investigating officer, Det Asst Insp Thomas Zimunhu, said the accused persons’ arrest was linked to the violent protests as they were found in possession of stolen goods hence if granted bail they were likely to abscond.
“It is in the interest of justice that accused persons should be remanded in custody until investigations are complete. If released on bail, there are fears that they might interfere with State witnesses, some of which are fellow police officers,” he said.
Det Asst Insp Zimunhu said the suspect who looted the stolen items is on the run and also known to Nyathi.
By Own Correspondent| Zimbabwean religious leader, Uebert Angel has issued a solidarity message to arrested religious leader Shepherd Bushiri.
Bushiri was arrested Friday in South Africa and he is being charged for money laundering and is set to appear in court on Monday.
Angel castigated Africa for specialising in arresting its successful black people ahead of arresting its woes including poverty.
Said Angel regarding the arrest:
It is MY OPINION that in AFRICA we have learnt to specialise in arresting successful BLACK people more than specialising in ARRESTING POVERTY
Angel also sent a solidarity message which was posted on Bushiri’s Facebook page:
PROPHESY THIS FOR YOURSELF AND Decree and Declare this FOR Major ONE and his family and all ECG:
Isa 54: 14 You’ll be built solid, grounded in righteousness, far from any trouble—nothing to fear! far from terror—it won’t even come close! 15 If anyone attacks you, don’t for a moment suppose that I sent them, And if any should attack, nothing will come of it. 16 I create the blacksmith who fires up his forge and makes a weapon designed to kill. I also create the destroyer— 17 but no weapon that can hurt you has ever been forged. Any accuser who takes you to court will be dismissed as a liar. This is what God’s servants can expect. I’ll see to it that everything works out for the best.” God’s Decree. . . Love you all! Signed: Uebert Angel
VICE President Kembo Mohadi has ordered Norton legislator Mr Temba Mliswa to within 24 hours retract allegations he posted on his Twitter account alleging that the former is corrupt and President Mnangagwa must fire him.
Mr Mliswa made the remarks in a tweet reacting to press statement by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Misheck Sibanda, in which President Mnangagwa accepted the resignation of commissioners to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
Mr Mliswa tweeted:
This is a move in the right direction @edmnangagwa Goodbye Goodson Nguni. It’s now time for you to move to the corrupt Ministers in Cabinet beginning with VP Mohadi. Judging from the evidence I’ll produce it appears the level of corruption in the South is unprecedented pic.twitter.com/EZx3HCHAbX
VP Mohadi’s lawyer, Mr Norman Mugiya of Mugiya and Macharaga Law Chambers, said the information was “completely untrue”.
“It has come to our client’s attention that in an online publication by one Mandla Ndlovu on the social media site, entitled ‘Mliswa to expose Kembo Mohadi’ you supplied and caused to be published information which is completely untrue and defamatory of the good name and integrity of our client,” said Mr Mugiya.
The publication attributed to Mr Mliswa threatened to expose what he alleged to be corruption scandals by VP Mohadi. It also insinuated that VP Mohadi was unfit for office and “called upon President of the Republic to dismiss our client from that position”.
In the same article it was also alleged that VP Mohadi was linked to a stream of cases involving illegal takeover of farms, torture and murder.
“The above utterances directly or indirectly attributed to you are either defamatory per se or intended to mean that our client is a dishonourable person,” wrote Mr Mugiya to Mr Mliswa.
He said the utterances were understood by an ordinary reader to mean VP Mohadi is corrupt and undeserving to be Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
The remarks were published on internet which has worldwide readership.
“They besmirch the good name and reputation of our client. They are therefore defamatory. Our client demands the immediate retraction of the utterances in publications of an equal readership and prominence forthwith and in all cases within 24 hours of the delivery of this letter upon you,” said Mr Mugiya.
Failure by Mr Mliswa to do so will see legal action being taken against him.
Former Finance Minister Ignatius Chombo yesterday heaved a sigh of relief after his travel documents were temporarily released. His lawyer Mr Tungamirai Muganhiri applied for the temporary release of his client’s passport from February 1 to March 30 this year to enable him to undergo medical procedures in South Africa.
Mr Muganhiri said the medical procedures were very crucial for his client who should not default.
He also notified the court of Chombo’s change of address since he had moved from Golden Stairs in Mount Pleasant to 157 Chishawasha Hills in Harare.
Harare magistrate Mrs Ruramai Chitumbura ordered for the release of Chombo’s passport. She also ordered him to reside at the new given address and to surrender the passport on the agreed date.
Chombo is facing charges of violating Section 4(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act (Chapter 9:16) by allegedly conniving with Psychology Chiwanga, Rejoice Pazvakavambwa, Iben Fransisco, James Chiyangwa, Theresa Chenjerayi, Elias Choto and Lazarus Chimba to forge documents used to transfer a Glen Lorne property from Harare City Council to Alois Chimeri.
Chombo is also accused of allocating residential stands to illegal settlers at Whitecliff Farm before demanding and receiving a bribe of a 3 712 square metre stand from the landowner to remove the settlers. The land owner, Eddies Pfugari Property Developers (Pvt) Ltd, lost property worth $200 million in the process.
Harare magistrate Ms Josephine Sande presided over the case.
SATAN TELLS GOD, BOW DOWN TO ME FIRST AND I WILL GIVE YOU THE WHOLE WORLD – ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa says he is not averse to holding talks with the people’s President, Nelson Chamisa if he recognises him as the legitimately-elected leader of the country.
Mnangagwa said his door has always been open to engage anyone the same way he has done with industry, church, students, traditional leaders, the disabled and progressive political parties.
Mnangagwa said contrary to reports by Chamisa that he had written to him five times seeking dialogue, he was yet to see any correspondence.
“I have not seen any letter,” he said.
“I hear there are talks going on and this only in the media. I even have had to ask our party officials whether they have been in talks with the MDC behind my back. They are also surprised. I have never refused to talk and that is why after I came into office, you have seen me talking to all people from students, industry, the church, political parties and even traditional leaders. We continue to talk for the good of our country and my door is open. I, however, do not understand how he (Chamisa) would want to talk to me when he claims I am illegitimate. It implies that the talks will be illegitimate. I don’t want to see myself exchanging words with Chamisa, I don’t want to sink to that level. I leave all this to you.”
The state media reported claiming that Mnangagwa was the first to call for dialogue. It went on to allegebut the MDC alliance spurned the opportunity, choosing to take the route of violent protests.
Mnangagwa also accused western countries over the military engineered violent protests which he however blamed on the MDC Alliance.
Mnangagwa himself has officially stated that the security forces were “insubordinate” in the chaotic events that began on 14th of January.
The military chaos, which began when soldiers launched violent assaults on civilians beginning with teachers inside schools while ordering them to go and strike against the government, left six people, including a police officer dead, while property and cars worth millions were either burnt or destroyed.
Civilians however “endured a double sword” from one group of the military forcing them into rioting while another was dispatched to not only assault but kill them.
Mnangagwa however said the intervention by the country’s security forces was ideal.
“We have been accused of using disproportionate force, but these protesters were burning down police stations and various infrastructure, including toll-gates along our highways,” Mnangagwa said.
He accused western governments of sponsoring the violence.
“I am not sure how we were supposed to respond to that. Western countries, in particular, have raised concerns. Of course, we regret the loss of life, but we needed to protect property as well as other citizens not involved in the protests. We have told the Western countries that they cannot turn around and raise concerns when they are the ones sponsoring the violence.”
He added saying: “The army was reacting to restore order but you hear some saying its excessive force. The Western media wants to develop an image where developing countries are vilified, where they want to glorify the perpetrators of violence. You have to stop people who destroy properties. However, people just mention the reaction of the police and the army without looking at the perpetrators.”
Over 1 100 people have been arrested in connection with the protests and some have been convicted and jailed.
Mnangagwa said the United States in particular wanted an administration which worked according to its dictates.
“They don’t care about human rights; that is why you find that they support some countries with clear democratic deficits,” he said.
“It’s about US interests and if we were pliable and accept to be used, our country would not be in these problems. The Western media also turn perpetrators of violence and destruction into victims. But they don’t show the destruction of property and direct threat to the stability of our country they caused.”
On the alleged divisions between him and VP Chiwenga, Mnangagwa said: “the people who talk about these divisions, what example do they give? They have nothing to show for their claims. I have known Chiwenga since the struggle years. We are comrades and understand each other better than you all think. Somebody actually told me while I was in Eurasia that I would be barred from returning home and I just laughed that off.”
He also spoke about plans to introduce a local currency saying no “country can succeed without own currency.”
Government has said it will not pay doctors for the days they were absent at their work stations during the 40-day long industrial action which started early in December and ended at the start of last month.
The Heath Services Board told the Daily News that government will only pay the health workers for the days that they worked.
“Although we asked SSB to full pay for their salaries this month, I think it is only fair that people get paid for the work they do, no work no pay.
“We however, negotiated and said they could borrow money about $500 to $1 000, from a health fund which they will return progressively.
“We also told the doctors that they could also take their off days and turn them to monetary terms in order for them to get paid because no business pays employees that were not at work.”
Doctors across the country caused pandemonium in the medical sector striking for 40 days, before government heeded their call and agreed to cushion the ailing medical sector and address the dire situation in hospitals.
Negotiations between government and ZHDA took more than a month due to government’s continual adamant responses to the disgruntled medical practitioners.
The striking doctors were protesting the severe shortages of pharmaceutical drugs at public hospitals — as well as poor working conditions among a host of other grievances.
Zimbabwe’s health delivery system has for a while now been battling myriad problems, as a result of the country’s worsening economic climate.
The Zimbabwe Hospital Doctors Association (ZHDA) secretary-general, Mthabisi Anele Bhebhe, told the Daily News that although they took the decision to go back to work to give a chance to dialogue with government they are “unimpressed by the manner and the pace at which their outstanding grievances are being addressed’’.
ZHDA also revealed that doctors earn a basic monthly salary of about $385 before allowances such as on-call stipends, which they also say is very low.
“The government promised to provide fuel to doctors to curb the frustration of waiting and sleeping in fuel queues and the delays in reporting to duty as a result.
“Unfortunately this has not been addressed. In fact, we have witnessed fuel hikes that are not accompanied by commensurate salary adjustments, leaving us in a tight spot,” Bhebhe said.
Besides fuel, government had consented to give the doctors a duty-free facility to import cars, unfreezing of posts and institution of supernumerary posts for registrars and fuel.
Health minister Obadiah Moyo had said Treasury would release $6 million before end of year for doctors’ car vehicle loans and unfreeze 402 posts.
“These are other important factors that still need attention. Yes, we still need our salaries in US dollars as in accordance with the legally binding Collective Bargaining Agreement we made with our employer. The alternative has not been discussed soberly.
“The government should take the welfare of doctors seriously because we are essential service and this must reflect by paying us respectable, fair and just salaries.” – Daily News
We will be going LIVE at 9.30 pm for the latest on Uebert Angel (real name Mudzanire – changed when he was exposed for academic fraud) following his accomplice Shepherd Bushiri’s arrest in South Africa.
Shepherd Bushiri and Uebert Angel (left and right)
A mother has been found guilty of female genital mutilation (FGM), in the first ever FGM conviction in the UK secured after a long and complex Met Police investigation.
A 37-year-old woman, who cannot be named, was found guilty of FGM under Section 1 of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003, on Friday, 1 February after a trial which started at the Old Bailey on Monday, 14 January.
She will be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 8 March.
Her co-defendant, a 43-year-old man, was found not guilty of the same offence.
The woman and her co-defendant, her former partner, were arrested after they brought their daughter, aged three, to hospital over the 2017 August Bank Holiday with serious injuries which doctors later said were consistent with FGM.
In a 999 call and in subsequent accounts given to officers, the mother said that the victim injured herself after falling onto an open kitchen cupboard door from a counter top at her home.
This version of events was later discredited by medical professionals who assessed the girl’s injuries and determined that they could not have been caused in this way.
The victim gave the same account to officers during video-recorded interviews, but she later told a foster carer that she had been held down and cut.
The court heard that the injuries were deliberately inflicted by someone using a very sharp implement in the 12 hours before the girl was taken to hospital.
Two cow’s tongues with nails through them, and 40 limes containing messages on small pieces of paper were found in a freezer at the mother’s home after her arrest, in what was said to be linked to a witchcraft spell or practice against people connected with the investigation.
Excerpts from the handwritten text in the messages are as follows:
“I freeze your mouth, don’t ever talk about me, shut up shut up shut up”
“I freeze u mouth never to talk about me mention anything about me”
“To everyone who I don’t know who talk about I have freezed u mouths”
“I freeze u lips u words everything you say about me”
The investigation was led by Detective Sergeant Mark Anderson, Detective Sergeant Lauren Brady, Detective Constable Laura Welham and Detective Constable Mark Crane of the Met’s Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command.
The mother was interviewed several times after their arrest, and denied any involvement. Charges were authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service and the Director of Public Prosecutions in August 2018.
During the trial, the mother maintained that the injuries had been caused by the girl falling.
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Baker of the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command, said:“This was a complex, sensitive investigation with a harrowing crime committed by this defendant.
“We cannot lose sight that this case is about a very young girl who was the victim of an illegal, horrific and life-changing act at the hands of her mother.
“I would like to acknowledge the bravery she and her sibling have shown since the offence was committed.
“An array of evidence – witness accounts, and medical and forensic evidence – which showed that FGM was the cause of the girl’s horrific injuries was painstakingly built, and this evidence was presented to a jury who after careful deliberation has found this woman guilty of FGM.”
Inspector Allen Davis, the Met’s lead officer for FGM, said: “It is significant that this is the first FGM conviction in the UK and I hope this sends out a clear message that the Met and other partner agencies will thoroughly investigate FGM cases and pursue prosecutions, whilst offering full support to victims and affected parties.
“However, our work to tackle FGM doesn’t stop. FGM remains a grave concern shared by police and other agencies which safeguard children, and we are determined to amplify our efforts to end FGM, and build on this successful prosecution to safeguard more young people at risk of this dangerous, illegal practice.
“This case demonstrates that FGM is still happening across London and the UK, behind a cloak of secrecy. The young victims often have no way to speak out or may not even know what is happening to them.
“We work closely with partner agencies to identify safeguarding risks related to FGM, but we really need information from people in communities who know FGM is happening – which young people are at risk, and who is doing the cutting.”
If you know someone who you believe to be at immediate risk of FGM, call 999 immediately. If you have concerns about the welfare of any young person, or you have information about FGM-related offending, you can call police or the NSPCC FGM Helpline on 0800 028 3550.
By Own Correspondent| Frank Buyanga visited the wounded victims of state-terror in some hospitals last week and paid for their medical bills.
The businessman’s African Medallion Group (AMG) established a humanitarian department to help those who were wounded during the fuel protests.
Said Buyanga:
Last week, we visited some of the victims in Zimbabwe, among the people we met included the woman who was shot in the leg, Patricia Kamuriwo, and who had to be carried in a wheelbarrow to get medical help.
In addition, Mr Felix Mafondokoto who was featured in the British Sky News report on Zimbabwe, was another victim whom we took to a private clinic, West End, for treatment and is now recovering at home with his loved ones.
We were deeply saddened by the violence that took place in our beloved nation of Zimbabwe.
More than a dozen people lost their lives during the January protests dubbed ShutDownZimthan a thousand people were arrested including 36 children.
PROMINENT Bulawayo businessman and Zimpapers board chairperson Delma Lupepe has lost his bid to retain his property after the High Court threw out his application for more time to service a $200 000 loan from a local bank.
The business mogul had approached the court seeking rescission of judgment in a matter in which Ecobank had obtained an order to eject him after he failed to pay rentals for the property.
The property was taken over by the bank, following his failure to service a $200 000 loan. In his court application, Lupepe had pleaded with the court saying: “Respondent (Ecobank) herein applied for summary judgment on December 13, 2016. Applicant (Lupepe) filed a notice of opposition on December 29, 2016. The case was set down for hearing on July 14, 2017. I, hereby, submit that I inadvertently and unwittingly diarised the date of hearing as Monday July 17, 2017,” he said, adding he was not in wilful default.
But High Court judge Justice Happius Zhou, dismissed Lupepe’s application on the basis that his matter lacked merit.
“On the prospects of success, the applicant’s (Lupepe) case is without merit. There is a clear misunderstanding of the actio rei vindicatio and the defences which can be set out to such an action at law. The respondent (Ecobank) has the property registered in its name. The applicant is in occupation of that property without the consent of the respondent. The summary judgment proceedings were instituted to recover the property from the applicant through the eviction proceedings,” Justice Zhou said.
“This is a case in which the need for finality in litigation would be upheld by dismissing their application for condonation. The court should put an end to the dispute and avoid unnecessary delay in the administration of justice … the application be and is hereby dismissed with costs on the attorney-client scale.”
The court also warned Lupepe’s lawyers against use of intemperate language against other parties.
The Dubai government held its annual gender balance awards on Sunday, and men walked away with every trophy.
The Gender Balance Index 2018 awardsoffered up three prizes for people or departments who champion women and the pursuit of gender equality in Dubai.
These were a gender “personality” award, an award for a workplace initiative to make men and women more equal, and a departmental award for supporting gender balance.
The Dubai government’s media office tweeted a photo of the winners after the ceremony, who were all men.
The tweet said the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, “honors the winners of the Gender Balance Index 2018.”
The Sheikh “recognised the efforts” of one woman, Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum.
She carried out “exceptional projects that helped achieve the nation’s goals of gender balance,” the press statement said – but she did not win an award.
She is also a member of the royal family and the wife of the Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan.
When asked by Business Insider about the lack of female prize winners, the Dubai Gender Balance Council told us: “During the Index’s second edition, recipients of the Index’s awards happened to be entities led by men.”
“This is indicative of the great and extraordinary progress we have made as a nation, where men in the UAE are proactively working alongside women to champion gender balance as a national priority,” they added.
On his personal Twitter account, the Sheikh described the awards as: “A great effort led by many parties to establish an environment that achieves a balance between the two sexes.”
The Sheikh with the director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority Abdulla Nasser Lootah (R,) on January 27, 2019.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the leaders in the middle east for gender balance, according to UN Human Development Reports, with a Gender Development Index (GDI) of 0.97. This compares with 0.88 in Saudi Arabia.
After the government’s press office tweeted the images, people were quick to notice the lack of female award winners.
The Sheikh with Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed al-Nahyan on January 27, 2019.
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reporter Golnaz Esfandiari tweeted: “All winners of Gender Balance Index are men!?”
Nicholas McGeehan, a former Middle East Researcher with Human Rights Watch, tweeted: “Best Gender Balance Awards Ever.”
Oz Katerji, freelance conflict and rights journalist tweeted: “This would be funny, if it was not so utterly depressing.”
The four male winners of the awards with Dubai’s Sheikh, pictured on January 27, 2019.
In the statement Dubai’s government said: “Over the past four years, the UAE Gender Balance Council has launched several initiatives and projects to promote gender balance in the country and move towards greater success and global leadership.”
“The achievements of Emirati women today reaffirm the wise vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who believed in the importance of the role of women, and their right to work and become key partners in society.”
The full titles of the awards were:
Best Personality Supporting Gender Balance
Best Federal & Institutional Authority Supporting Gender Balance
Best Gender Balance Initiative
Business Insider has contacted officials in Dubai for comment, but has yet to receive a reply.
This morning, around 07:00hrs in the morning armed members of the police stormed Sparkling Waters Hotel in Rustenburg, South Africa.
We were later made aware that they were members of the Directorate for Priority Investigations (HAWKS).
They took the Prophet and our mother Prophetess Mary Bushiri in handcuffs to Pretoria.
They have charged our father with fraud and money laundering.
As you will remember, from last year, we have struggled with reports that our father was guilty. We have repeatedly learnt from different media houses that we were under investigation.
At some point accurate reports pointed out the fact that certain people within the police had demanded bribes amounting up to R10 million.
This is a matter that is on record and well known.
He has been detained and is being questioned by the HAWKS in Silverton, Pretoria.
We will give you more updates as we go.
We would like to encourage our members to be steadfast in prayer. This morning we were vindicated through the CRL after weeks of being painted wrong. We urge you to remember that this too shall pass.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has reacted to the petition by lawyers over the alleged unjust handling of public violence cases.
Chief Justice Luke Malaba through the JSC Secretary Mr Walter Chikwanha released a 10-page report which answered to the raised questions, but hammered home the fact that judicial decisions cannot be reversed through petitions.
In response to the issues raised by 119 lawyers on the complaints against the handling of trials for the recently arrested protesters, Chief Justice Malaba held that both the JSC and his office are not empowered to interfere with the judicial decision-making process of any court.
In , the complaints raised by the legal practitioners were that magistrates were dismissing bail applications by the arrested suspects without due cause, the courts were allegedly fast-tracking trials without affording accused persons adequate time to prepare their defences and that the courts were refusing lawyers opportunity to take instructions from their clients.
On accusations of predetermination or instructive dispensation of justice, the JSC maintains that judicial officers independently exercise their discretion as demanded by the constitution.
On the question of high proportion of suspects denied bail, CJ Malaba noted that crimes of public violence, theft and destruction of property are serious infractions of the law which dismantle the fabric of society and those arrested for committing such vile acts must be processed through the criminal justice system where the charges are proven they must be convicted and sentenced accordingly, likewise where the charges are not proven they must acquitted.
The chief justice concludes by reminding the lawyers that petitioning his office and the JSC amounts to interference with the discretion and independence of judicial officers.
He instructed the Acting Secretary of the JSC to constitute a tactical committee of stakeholders from the Acting Chief Magistrate, the Law Society, the National Prosecuting Authority, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services to address all issues and to ensure speedy trials with respect to the rights of accused persons.
The Harare City Council has warned all residents that it will soon be mounting roadblocks in order to impound all unlicenced bicycles. The city council warned all residents who use bicycles to ensure that they get licences for the bicycles. According to local by-laws, bicycles have to be licenced at the beginning of each year. Speaking to Kukurigo, local authority’s spokesperson Micheal Chideme said,
Those who use bicycles should licence their bikes. The municipal police roadblocks will be checking for these licences and those without will have them impounded.
He also warned that the council will be impounding unlicenced dogs and destroying perimeter walls (durawalls) which were erected without approval.
We are saying all those with dogs should licence their dogs. There is going to be a door to door exercise to check on the licencing of dogs and all stray dogs will be impounded.
Homeowners who built perimeter walls around their properties without approved plans are advised to regularise the construction of the security walls.
Timothy “Tim” Ndoro is a polymath, or so he believes, who loves travelling and documenting what he encounters and he has a keen interest in photography and writing. He is also a wannabe nerd and an avid gamer and sports enthusiast who will happily watch all five days of Test Cricket if given the chance.
Mines minister, Winstone Chitando has cleared the air on reports of intrusion in the Chiadzwa diamond mining fields saying the yet to be identified culprits only got into the portal A mining area where tailings from the dump are heaped.
In a statement yesterday, Chitando said investigations were already underway to unmask the intruders identity as well as the extend of loss from their actions.
“On 19th January there was an intrusion of unidentified people who entered into the Portal A Mining area of Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company. They took with then some tailings from dumps. For the record tailings are the residue of ore which would have been processed to extract diamonds and for which there is no value attached,” he said.
Chitando added that the intruders did not extend beyond not get to the area which contains ores and processed material as the surveillance measures alerted security personnel manning the place of intrusion.
He added that the intrusion is an isolated case that must not be viewed as a threat to diamond operations in Chiadzwa.
“This was an isolated incident which is being investigated by the Police and which should not be views as a threat to diamond operations in Chiadzwa,” said Chitando.
Until investigations by the Police are concluded there is no basis to speculate on the identity of the intruders and any speculation on such identity is pre-mature.
He assured the nation that security at the diamond fields in Chiadzwa and Marange fully meets the Kimberly Process Certification System requirements adding that regular reviews are carried out to prevent any breaches.
“The security of our diamonds fields is of the highest standards which fully meet Kimberly Process Certification Systems requirements and which we cause to review regularly to prevent any breaches,” said Chitando.
By Own Correspondent- Former ICT minister Supa Mandiwanzira’s media empire has been forced to implement tough survival measures as the country’s tanking economy takes its toll on industry and commerce.
Mandiwanzira lost his cabinet post after President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s victory in the disputed July 30 elections.
He was arrested for criminal abuse of office and is currently out of custody on $2,000 bail.
Staff at his AB Communications group claimed Thursday that salaries had been cut by 50 per cent, with the working month reduced to 11 days.
“We had to respond to the worsening economic situation,” a highly-placed insider told a local publication.
“We could have retrenched, but we chose an option which, at least, keeps people at work. This is a temporary three-month arrangement. We are hoping that, in that time, the economy improves.
You have to understand that in the current inclement economic environment, the advertising is one of the activities companies cut-back on in order to survive.
Banks are not going to advertise when they don’t have money to give anyone; just as an oil expressing company will not advertise when it’s not producing any cooking oil.
The official however claimed that most of the staff at the station had understood the situation and had “offered to continue coming to work for the full month, even if they would only be paid for 11 days”.
Group CEO Susan Makore however, denied staff claims that salaries had been cut by half.
She said:
“No salary cuts and, as I speak, we are currently processing January salaries. But, and as you may also know, various companies are implementing austerity measures and our organisation employs largely freelancers and they work as they are needed.”
A Harare business couple which lost a $6,5 million claim against United Family International Church (UFIC) leader Emmanuel Makandiwa and his wife Ruth, over an alleged false prophecy, has approached the Supreme Court challenging the High Court decision dismissing the claim.
The Makandiwas last week won the case after the High Court dismissed the application by Mr Upenyu Mashangwa and his wife Blessing, seeking a refund of their contributions to the church.
They also alleged fraud and defamation, but Justice Owen Tagu summarily dismissed the six claims against the UFIC leaders as false, frivolous and vexatious.
He granted the Makandiwas an order allowing them not to defend the claim.
The Mushangwas are now seeking to quash the decision of the lower court and last Friday, they filed a notice of appeal against the judgment.
In their grounds of appeal, the Mashangwas, who are being represented by Advocate Sylvester Hashiti, argue that the lower court misdirected itself in finding that fraud and fraudulent misrepresentation did not constitute a valid cause of action at law.
The Mashangwas sued Makandiwa in 2017, claiming they had fallen prey to a prophecy by the latter promising them a “debt cancellation miracle”.
By Own Correspondent- All is set for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “Thank You” rally scheduled for Mt Darwin on Saturday.
Mnangagwa will address Zanu Pf stalwarts at Mt Darwin High School in Mashonaland Central.
The rally will be President Mnangagwa’s second rally following his first “Thank You” rally held in Zvimba, Mashonaland West Province.
Zanu PF Mashonaland Central Secretary for Information and Publicity Alfred Mufunga confirmed this weekend’s rally adding preparations are at an advanced stage with transport logistics having been put in place.
“Mashonaland Central is where the liberation struggle began and as you know Zanu PF won in all the constituencies so this is befitting.
People will be picked up at their administrative points and guests are expected to be seated by 10 am.”-StateMedia
Zanu PF made a clean sweep of all the 18 constituencies in Mashonaland Central in the 30 July harmonised elections.
JOHANNESBURG – Controversial church leader Shepherd Bushiri has been arrested.
A statement from the church says he and his wife Mary were arrested by the Hawks on fraud and money laundering charges.
“As you will remember, from last year, we have struggled with reports that our father was guilty. He has been detained and is being questioned by the Hawks in Silverton, Pretoria.”
Bushiri spokesperson said “Police came in the morning to the hotel, picked them up, saying they wanted to talk to them. They wouldn’t tell us exactly why or how. They didn’t take them to a police station, but they took them to the headquarters of the Hawks.”
Early last year, reports emerged that Bushiri was sending about R15 million a month to his birth country Malawi.
It was said the money was transported out of South Africa to Malawi in the pastor’s private jet and a few vehicles.
CRL COMMISSION
Earlier on Friday, the CRL Rights Commission found that the controversial church leader was not responsible for the stampede at his Pretoria church where three people died, saying that the church fully complied with safety regulations.
After a two-day hearing this week into the tragedy, the commission said after due consideration, it found that the church was granted a compliance certificate prior to the service in December last year.
Seventeen other people were injured as they scrambled for cover during a thunderstorm at Bushiri’s popular Enlightened Christian Gathering Church.
South African –based Malawian Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has told the CRL Rights Commission that his Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church is greatly impacting South Africa’s economy.
Bushiri, seated next to his wife Mary, told the CRL Rights Commission, that his church makes a significant contribution to South African communities and makes considerable injections towards the fiscus.Standing with Prophet Bushiri, the Major 1Bushiri with his wife Mary, at the CRL Rights Commission
“Beyond evangelism, our church has done, and continues to do so much to contribute to the South African society both through direct injection to the economy and, also, through our charity programmes,” said Bushiri when he appeared before the CRL Rights Commission to submit the position of the ECG regarding the Friday 28 December incident.
He continued:“The South African economy, through the city of Pretoria, has benefited so much through the religious tourism engineered by our church. Unlike Cape Town and Durban, Gauteng is not so much of a tourist destination.
“However, through our fortnight International Visitors Programme and other events, we have over 9 000 people coming to Gauteng every month, Pretoria to be specific or rather Tshwane.”
Bushiri said there a research conducted by Dr Acha-Anyi from Tshwane University of Technology which revealed that ECG congregants “noted 90% stay between one to two days and 20% stay in commercial tourist accommodation. This basically proves the economic impact of religious tourism due to the operation of ECG in Tshwane”.
Robust charity work
The charismatic preacher said the ECG has been “robust” in doing charity work in South Africa through its charity arm — Beacon of Hope.
“For instance, in 2018, during Nelson Mandela Day, the church launched a School Adoption Programme at Kloofwaters Primary School in Rustenburg. We made several donations to the school to the tune of $40,000,” said Bushiri.
“The programme continues this year as we target five more schools. Further, the church has, for the past three years, been working with different child care centers and social welfare centers within Gauteng and North West Province.”
The genesis and growth of ECG
In his opening remarks, Bushiri also narrated the history of the ECG church.
“ECG Church is an arm of the Prophet Shepherd Bushiri Ministries (PSBM) which was founded by me, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri in the city of Mzuzu in Malawi. The church began its operations in Malawi in 2010 and, over the years, it expanded through establishment of branches in different countries, among others, Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania and Kenya,” said Bushiri.
“Operations in South Africa began in 2012 wherein it was formerly constituted and legally registered with CIPC. Prophet Bushiri joined the South Africa branch, as the general overseer, later in 2015.”
He said the ECG currently has branches in over 178 countries across the world.
Former Highlanders players Gabriel Nyoni and Newman Sianchali, who crossed the great devide to join CAPS United, have promised to have a dream season at Makepekepe coupled with more goals.
In an interview with SportBrief on the sideline of their training session at Mt Pleasant High School on Tuesday morning, the new boys in town said they are happy to turn green and white.
Nyoni, who was the most wanted man during the current transfer window, left his childhood team after six years at Bosso.
The former Amantengwane vice captain said the environment at Makepekepe was conducive for producing results for the former cup kings.
“It feels good to be at CAPS and everyone is supportive.
“I am looking forward to a great season this year and I want to score more goals than I did last season (with Highlanders).
“I want to help build the Makepekepe brand grow as I am ready for the challenge,” he said.
Nyoni said achieving greatness will not be a stroll in the park but one that requires hard work and commitment.
“It’s from (one) hot pot into another. There was a lot of pressure at Highlanders and there is a lot of pressure here at CAPS.
“I know what the fans are expecting and I am ready to deliver to their expectations,” Nyoni said.
Sianchali who followed his teammate to the Capital said the Green Machine has offered him a bridge to greatness.
“I think I made a good decision by signing for CAPS United considering what’s happening at the club.
“They are handling their affairs professionally and I want to make a big name for myself as I help the club to achieve its goals.
“I want to win trophies and to help the club win the 2019 championship,” he said.
Sianchali said he is happy at Caps and promised to deliver goals for the Lloyd Chitembwe coached side.
“I want to thank everyone for the acceptance into the team and I am looking forward to great things.
“I would like to urge the fans to cheer us when the league commences,” he said.
Makepekepe have been busy on the market strenthening their squad to challenge for the big trophy this season.
Own Correspondent|FC Platinum are still hopeful of progressing to the later stages of the CAF Champions League and want nothing short of a victory against Horoya at Barbourfields stadium on Saturday, a senior player has said.
Platinum tumbled in Tunisia when they lost 0-2 to giants Esperance recently.
They had played a nill all draw with South African giants Orlando Pirates in Bulawayo.
Hopes were high the Pure Platinum Play was ready to make another record of qualifying for the semi finals but they bubble burst in Tunisia.
Now they want to redeem themselves in contention for a last eight position by winning games.
FC Platinum vice captain Gift Bello said they have put behind them the loss against Esperance and now want to win the match against Horoya if they still want to entertain chances of progressing to the next round.
He said they did not deserve to lose in the fashion they lost to defending champions Esperence in their second CAF Champions League Group B match in Tunis barely two weeks ago.
“I am positive we will win our Horoya game and make up for the Esperance match.
“This is our golden opportunity of making things right. We know what is at stake here and we are going to give the match our all.
“Its a must win match for us,” he said.
Bello, who has seen it all at Dynamos is positive that they will brew a shocker against Guinea champions.
“We want a positive result as much as Horoya want it. The game will be stiff but i am positive we will come out victorious.
” This is about us making our dreams a reality. We must win the game at all cost,” he said.
Only two teams will qualify to the quarter finals.
However, Platinum are anchoring the group with one point together with Horoya.
Saturday’s game will be a battle of the bottom placed teams.
Correspondent|Highlanders will launch the club’s official anthem and mascot this year.
Chief Executive Officer Nhlanhla Dube told B-Metro that they would engage the fans on the pending developments.
“Since the launch will be a process, everyone has to be involved in this. We will embark on massive fan engagement, and we will produce an option of possibilities with regards to the kind of an animal that we will use for our mascot,” said Dube.
“With regards to our official anthem, we have many songs that have been sung about this great institution so we will give the fans the chance to vote for their all-time favourite to become our official song of praise.”
Options on the kind of an animal to be used as the club’s mascot include a noisy black bird called umantengwane, ithendele or ihlolanyama (lapwing).
Correspondent|ZIFA will not sell tickets at the gate for the Warriors match against Congo Brazzaville in the 2019 Afcon Qualifiers.
The national team will host the central Africans at National Sports Stadium on 24 March.
ZIFA started the selling the tickets this morning and fans can buy them at www.clicknpay.africa . Payment can be made using EcoCash, Telecash, Mastercard, Zimswitch or VISA.
The cheapest ticket is going for $10 while Bay 15-18 has been pegged at $50 and VIP is costing $200.
HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa, pictured, has denied reports suggesting that all is not well between him and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, the Daily News can report.
Speaking to journalists at an informal media briefing at Munhumutapa Building — the citadel of government power — Mnangagwa said there was no rift between him and Chiwenga, who led the military intervention that ousted former president Robert Mugabe in November 2017.
“That is democracy; there is freedom of speech including freedom of lies. Those who are saying this, I said come with examples to show that we are fighting. They had nothing to show for their claims,” he said.
“We went to war with Chiwenga and they were still young boys. They know that vane kamudhara kavo,” Mnangagwa said, tongue-in-cheek.
He also said he has one Twitter account, amid a festering row between his spin-doctors who are battling for control of his communications.
“I have one Twitter account — that’s my official account. I know there are many fake Twitter accounts and Facebook pages. For the issue of my spokesperson (George Charamba) and the ministry, I told them come and ask me first, I am the principal.”
Charamba has been trading barbs with officials at the ministry of Information over tweets posted from Mnangagwa’s official account which he strongly felt were not reflective of the official thinking.
Mnangagwa also spoke about prospects of dialogue between him and MDC leader Nelson Chamisa, saying his rival must first recognise him as the legitimately elected president before beginning any talks.
This comes as calls for national dialogue aimed at mitigating Zimbabwe’s myriad crises have reached a crescendo following ugly disturbances that erupted countrywide during protests against a fuel price hike announced by Mnangagwa last month.
The subsequent government crackdown against opposition officials and pro-democracy groups has also seen Mnangagwa coming under intense domestic and international pressure to reach out to Chamisa in talks aimed at ending the country’s decades-long political and economic crisis.
Before the chaos, Chamisa, writing on social media, had reiterated his desire for dialogue with Mnangagwa — whom he referred to as “my brother”, in a welcome move which signalled the abandonment of his once- militant approach to talks.
While Mnangagwa said he is not against talks, he said any such dialogue with Chamisa can only happen on the strict understanding that the 40-year-old lawyer and pastor recognise the Zanu PF leader as the legitimate winner of the hotly-disputed July 30 presidential election.
“There is no time. I said I am not anti-people, I always said my door is open and I am a listening president,” he said.
“I cannot talk to somebody who said I don’t recognise you because you are an illegitimate president, so then the talks will be illegitimate. I have met the churches, industries, women, youth, university students, traditional leaders and I will do it again. Even some political parties I met them here.
“I have never received any single letter from Chamisa. I don’t want to see myself exchanging words with Chamisa, I don’t want to sink to that level. I leave all this to you.”
This comes after Chamisa told a news conference at the party’s Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House headquarters in Harare on Tuesday that Mnangagwa’s legitimacy must form the agenda of the talks.
Asked about the brutal crackdown by security forces as the army moves to crush all possible opposition to the ruling Zanu PF party, Mnangagwa said: “The army was reacting to restore order but you hear some saying its excessive force. If someone burns a police station, the tollgate and we think the police must stop and watch this happening? The western media want to develop an image where the developing countries are vilified, where they want to glorify the perpetrators of violence. You have to stop people who destroy properties. However, people just mention the reaction of the police and the army without looking at the perpetrators.”
Across the country, the protests left charred car frames and tollgates, shattered shop windows and looted supermarkets and vandalised police stations — as well as a presidency in crisis.
There was widespread anger against the Zanu PF leader, with many slamming what they perceived as his out-of-touch leadership and the rising cost of living.
Mnangagwa said the people of Zimbabwe did not understand his administration’s austerity measures, introduced in October last year to reduce government debt and stabilise the economy, saying the fruits of the programme would be seen in the near future.
The austerity measures have seen government spending being slashed and new taxes introduced with Finance minister Mthuli Ncube saying there would be “pain and sacrifice.”
Mnangagwa told reporters: “I don’t think people are so happy with austerity measures which are there. Very few understand that these austerity measures will bring good life tomorrow, people don’t see this. You must be a president and leading a nation where the country ought to go, and not where people desire to go. We are in the right direction. I am committed to do things that will better this country.”
He shirked responsibility for the price hikes that partly sparked the protests, instead blaming business for not doing enough to earn sufficient foreign currency.
“Government is not business. It is supply and demand that will regulate all these things. People must identify opportunity and increase the supply side. As a president I will not regulate that,” he said.
Mnangagwa said government planned to introduce a new currency. He did not state when.
“I think the minister said we are working on fundamentals for them to be able to introduce our own currency. No country can succeed without own currency, so we must work on this issue. We must work on the production of gold, diamonds and our exports,” he said.
Mnangagwa acknowledged that the rising repression has put off western powers, undermining Zimbabwe’s efforts to re-join the international community.
“In the past two weeks, we have many questions coming from the western countries, but we explain to them what actually happened,” Mnangagwa said.
“We also said the question of us going to Russia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and China, that’s where we get assistance. Recently, we have never got any significant investment from the West.”
Amid the festering protests home, Mnangagwa — who was touring central Asia, Russia and Europe in a bid to drum up investment for the country’s crippled economy — was forced to cut short his trip to return home instead of attending the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Mnangagwa denied that he had been denied a bailout package from China, amid reports Zimbabwe has failed to honour loan repayments as Beijing tightens its lending terms and expects debtors to be more accountable.
“Who asked for bailout package from China?” Mnangagwa asked rhetorically. “We never asked for bailout package from China. We want investments not bailout package from China, then it’s a win-win situation.”
Mnangagwa also denied that South Africa is considering a bailout for Zimbabwe saying the country was borrowing from the African Union (AU)’s Nepad economic development agency, headed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“When we had cooking oil shortages, we said we have Nepad fund. The Nepad fund is structured to assist members who find themselves with a problem and is administered by South Africa but you must pay back,” Mnangagwa explained.
“We told South Africa can you give us a line of credit that’s why there have been discussions between the minister of
Finance and the governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe for a line of credit from South Africa.”
Mnangagwa also acknowledged that there was escalating corruption in Zimbabwe, which he said must end.
This comes as Zimbabwe has just been ranked 160th out of 175 countries on the Transparency International index, which measures public perceptions of corruption in public institutions.
“We now need the mindset change of our people, corruption must end,” Mnangagwa said. “I discovered that it is difficult to fight corruption because you are fighting corruption with people who are involved in corruption, but we don’t want to relent.”
Speaking about the amnesty window for the return of public funds illegally stashed abroad by individuals and companies, Mnangagwa said:
“From $1, 2 billion which was externalised, $860 million was brought back. What is remaining now, the persons come forward to us saying they have bought properties and agreed to pay it in certain time the initial amount.
“Some are going to be prosecuted, those who didn’t come forward. However, all the big guys who had externalised the money came forward and brought back the money.”
Speaking on reports he was on the verge of restructuring that Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc), Mnangagwa said: “For Zacc, icho chakaora kare, kare (it’s a rotten institution). I am going to make a statement on the issue of Zacc next week.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa at Parirenyatwa Hospital
Paul Nyathi|President Emmerson Mnangagwa this morning took part in his highly valued monthly clean up exercise at Parirenyatwa Hospital.
He wrote on his Facebook page after the exercise which he has diligently followed since he launchex it in December last year.
This morning I took part in the cleaning up of Harare, while the First Lady was cleaning up Mutare, as part of the #MyEnvironmentMyPride campaign. A clean Zimbabwe is a healthy Zimbabwe, and a healthy Zimbabwe is a productive Zimbabwe.
On the way, we stopped at Parirenyatwa hospital in Harare, where we committed to revamping the maternity ward. We were blessed to meet with the newborn Zimbabweans and their brave mothers.
By Own Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority has confiscated walking canes donated to the blind by an India organisation Kantahry International.
The donation, which was supposed to be hande over to one Robert Malunda, a Bulawayo based blind graduate who is currently surviving on airtime vending was reportedly confiscated by ZIMRA and will only be released upon payment of the required $430.
The donation comes at a time when concern has been raised over the number of blind people who are being run over by cars in the central business district.
Lamented one Chris Tabvura:
Honestly, our ZIMRA has become clueless on the way they raise money. ZIMRA confiscated 100 donated canes for blind people, instead of handing them over to Robert Malunda, a Bulawayo based blind graduate who is surviving through selling Airtime. Malunda had requested for the donation from an Indian organisation Kanthary International and was given the donation to help fellow visually challenged colleagues who have been facing problem of hit and run by reckless drivers. Now that ZIMRA with educated professionals and respected Ministry are forcibly taking what was donated for the blind, what will become of these disadvantaged people? According to Malunda, ZIMRA is demanding US$430.00 as duty for donated walking sticks from India to be specific. Does our government care for the blind or want them to be knocked by motorists daily?
Murena Zvinoruka however said:
“There are rules and procedures to be followed for goods and services to qualify for duty free and the ZIMRA officials don’t have powers to allow goods through the boarders just because they are for blind people. These people have to follow the correct procedures when importing goods for the disabled as long as they do it properly the law allows these goods duty free
By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa scoffed at rumours that he was barred to return home after he completed his tour for Eurasia in January.
He also accused the Americans of supporting violence in the country, saying that they do not care about human rights.
While speaking to the media on Wednesday night, Mnangagwa said:
They don’t care about human rights; that is why you find that they support some countries with clear democratic deficits. It’s about US interests and if we were pliable and accept to be used, our country would not be in these problems.
The Western media also turn perpetrators of violence and destruction into victims. But they don’t show the destruction of property and direct threat to the stability of our country they caused.
… The people who talk about these divisions, what example do they give? I have known Chiwenga and his colleagues [in the military] since the struggle years. We are comrades and understand each other better than you all think.
Somebody actually told me while I was in Eurasia that I would be barred from returning home and I just laughed that off.-StateMedia
Is Religion becoming a platform for some so called men of God to Make a lot of fortune from fraudulently?
Time and again, we have seen controversial pastors do insane things just to try and prove that they are indeed anointed by God. Some of these despicable acts have included lying to people that they have had a personal encounter with God, seen him face to face and even took pictures with.
The Gullible congregation have fallen for these lies with many going on to worship these pastors like the whole world depends on them.
A South African Pastor named Paseka Motsoeneng alias Pastor Mboro once claimed that he went to hell and killed the devil, horns and all.
He claimed that he went to hell and rid the world of its evils by killing the main man himself, Lucifer.
On a Post on Facebook, Mboro wrote: “When I got to hell, there was a queue of millions of people waiting to be braaied by Satan. I even saw some prominent South African politicians.
“I was so shocked because they lived like angels here on earth. I thought they went to heaven.
“When Satan saw me, he panicked and directed his army to kill me. Like Samson in the Bible, I defeated them. Satan was my last victim.”
This is not the first heavenly claim the preacher has made.
According to Mboro, he was so overcome by the spirit last year on Easter Sunday; he went to heaven and took pictures on his Samsung Galaxy Smartphone.
The pastor then sold the heavenly pictures for R5 000 each.
He also claimed to have access to the Pearly Gates and could get people in – at a heavenly price, of course.
Mboro was charging members of his congregation R10 000 for guaranteed access.
He also claimed he is so blessed that God sent him a BMW i8 valued at R2 million for helping the poor with his good deeds.
“The Bible says those who take care of the poor will be lifted up by Jesus. I’ve been helping the poor. God is rewarding me, with an i8,” Mboro said.
By Own Correspondent| A 29 year old Zimunya resident who was last weak brutaly assaulted by soldiers has died.
Noah Sahombe succumbed to injuries suffered during beatings by soldiers in Zimunya township around 8pm on Sunday 20 Jan 2019 in the aftermath of the stayaway.
He was taken to Zimunya clinic the following morning where he was referred to Mutare General Hospital.
His condition continued to deteriorate before he was referred to Parirenyatwa hospital where he died upon admission early Friday morning.
He leaves behind a wife (24) and two children aged 5 and 3 years old.
Said MDC Manicaland Spokesperson, Trevor Saruwaka:
We condemn this needless loss of life at the hands of the State. Noah was a young man who worked at a Filling Station in Mutare. The information at hand show that Noah was not an active member politically just like millions other Zimbabweans who go about their business without involving themselves in party politics.
He is a victim of a rogue government which is now cannibalizing it’s own children in order to cling to power by declaring ordinary citizens enemies of the state.
We call upon authorities to investigate and bring to book the murderers of Noah Sahombe.
Kadoma City Council risks losing its city status due to a marked decline in service delivery standards.
Kadoma, the only city in Mashonaland West province, has over the years become an eyesore, amid reports that other towns in the province like Chinhoyi were now offering better service.
The city, which held its centenary celebrations two years ago, is facing a myriad of challenges such as erratic water supplies, uncollected garbage, and poor water and sewer reticulation systems.
Speaking during a meeting of Sanyati District Government heads in Kadoma recently, Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Mary Mliswa-Chikoka challenged the council to restore Kadoma to its past glory.
“If the truth is to be told, Kadoma has deteriorated, it is no longer that ‘city’. People are actually surprised that it is a city,” she said. “When people lobbied for a city status, it was because they saw wealth in the area. It is time to dig deep and start to relook at Kadoma with fresh eyes.”
Minister Mliswa-Chikoka challenged authorities to look for ways to ensure the city retained its status.
“Chinhoyi is definitely better than Kadoma now and all the little cities which are coming up, yet you are the only city in the whole province,” she said.
Singling out Rimuka, Minister Mliswa-Chikoka said: “It used to be a marvel, but now it is something else. One is now actually afraid to visit the area because he or she will end up trampling on sewage. Sort it out. Councillors you have a big task to sort out the mess, let us put politics aside and develop Kadoma.”
By Own Correspondent- A UK legislator has urged the international community to effect a travel ban on President Emmerson Mnangagwa and put on hold engagement efforts with Zimbabwe.
Speaking in Britain’s lower House of Parliament, the House of Commons, Chair of the UK all-party parliamentary group on Zimbabwe, Kate Hoey said that the international community cannot ignore what is happening in Zimbabwe
She said:
The international community should suspend any initiatives relating to reengagement with the Zimbabwean government.
It is unacceptable in my view to be even talking about debt restructuring and private sector investment while so many Zimbabwean civilians are being assaulted and killed.
We are calling for the end of the deployment of the military, they have to go back into their barracks.
We have to get the United nations to make a very strong statement on the rule of law.
We need to call for an independent investigation of the human rights violation to be led by African Union or United Nations.
We have to get to who gave the orders it was the same with the people killed after the elections where we never got to the bottom of who gave the army orders.
By Own Correspondent- MDC Alliance’s Redcliff and Mbizo legislators who are currently behind bars for inciting public violence, Lloyd Mukapiko and Settlement Chikwinya, have taken their freedom bid to the Bulawayo High Court.
The duo were arrested on January 17 on allegations of inciting public violence during #Shutdown Zimbabwe protests triggered by fuel price increases are currently in Kwekwe Remand Prison.
According to the State, the legislators addressed members of the public in Kwekwe and encouraged them to resort to violence during the stayaway. Chikwinya is alleged to have posted on his Facebook wall, a statement thanking people for taking part in the stayaway.
The MPs are denying the charges.
Kwekwe magistrate Story Rushambwa ruled that they were not good candidates for bail.-Newsday
However, their lawyer Brian Dube revealed that the legislators have since approached the High Court for bail.
“We have lodged the application for the MPs’ bail at the Bulawayo High Court. The legislators are yet to be allocated a judge who will hear the bail application, but we hope that will be done this week,” Dube said.
He also highlighted that the two MPs cannot be said to be a flight risk.
“At law, all averments must be backed by evidence and as it stands there is no such to show that the MPs cannot be tried from home. They deserve their liberty because they have not been convicted,” the lawyer said.
In Gweru, accused persons who were denied bail by the lower court in similar offences were finally granted their liberty by the High Court this week.
