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Motorists Claim Zimbabwean Fuel Is Over-diluted And Of Poor Quality
Own Correspondent|Zimbabwean motorists have complained that petrol being supplied in the country is over diluted with ethanol and burning up too quickly.
Social media posts by a wide spectrum of motorists claimed that when they fill up in neighbouring countries the fuel lasts longer than the local product.
Messages with statistics revealing ethanol content in blended fuel by specific service stations have been circulating on social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook.
The social media reports alleged that filling stations such as Glo Petroleum and Puma blend the fuel with 18 percent and 21 percent ethanol respectively while Zuva (32 percent), Total (21 percent) and Engen (21percent).
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) however dismissed the allegations.
Zera acting chief executive officer, Eddington Mazambani said the blending ratio of unleaded petrol and anhydrous ethanol obtained in the market, at any given time was consistent across the country.
He said as at the end of December 2018, the compliance ratio of blend was at 99,4 percent across the country and no fuel retailer was caught with over-blended petrol in 2018.
“Zera wishes to assure the public that the blending ratio of unleaded petrol and anhydrous ethanol obtained in the market, at any given time is consistent across the country and in line with the legal provisions as issued by the Minister of Energy and Power Development in terms of the Petroleum Act, from time to time.
“Blending of fuel is exclusively conducted by licensed blenders only and currently there are 11 such licensees who abide and comply with Zera regulations. Any other blending by unlicensed operators is illegal and fuel retailers are aware of the severe consequences,” said Mr Mazambani.
Five of the 11 fuel dealers licensed to blend petroleum products have blending depots in Harare and Bulawayo and the service stations can acquire either already blended or not blended fuel from National Oil Company of Zimbabwe which they then blend.
Mazambani said Zera consistently conducts routine infrastructural and quality inspections at each and every blending site and fuel service stations across the country.
“The inspection process includes among others, assessing compliance of the fuel product with prevailing blending ratios.
“The public is assured that the blending ratios of fuel in Zimbabwe are the same at every fuel site and these are periodically monitored for compliance with mandatory blending regulations,” he said.
“We carry out routine and random tests and also focus on trouble spots and fuel quality complaints.
“Anyone caught selling fuel not meeting quality standards is prosecuted in terms of fuel quality regulations SI 23 of 2013,” said Mazambani.
Blending of petrol is governed by SI 17 and 147A of 2013 which sets the maximum blending level at 20 percent and the blend level was set from time to time by the Minister of Energy and Power Development.
Mazambani said the existing blend level as of January 2019 was at five percent and last month it was at 15 percent.
Black Umfolosi Cries Foul Over Unity Song Royalties
THE Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) last week refuted claims by Black Umfolosi that it had not received royalties for its hit song — Unity — which has featured on ZBC TV and radio from way back in 1987.
Zimura executive director Polisile Ncube refuted the claims, saying only one member of Black Umfolosi had not been given the royalties.
“I would love to know who in particular is complaining because not all Black Umfolosi members have a claim to the song Unity. Royalties are paid only to the composer or composers of a song and not to all band members. Please, note that neither Tomeki (Dube) nor Sotsha Moyo composed the song unity. Unity was composed by a Dennis Nkomo,” she said.
She said Nkomo was the only person with a claim to Unity, but admitted that their payments often ran behind schedule due to a plethora of reasons.
Ncube said they only paid for music listed on the log sheet of music played and presented by various radio presenters and submitted to the association by the broadcaster.
“We have proof of the payment in the office. Please, note also that Zimura only pays royalties for works that are broadcast and logged by the broadcasters. Therefore, if some work is used on programmes that are not logged, there is no way Zimura can pay as we will not have evidence of the usage,” she said.
This was said after the group’s leader, Tomeki Dube, claimed they were engaged in a bitter fight with Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) to access royalties for the song.
“So far, ZBC has done nothing about the issue. Since 1987, we have presented our issue of not getting royalties and we are given a cold shoulder. ZBC says our song is a jingle and we cannot get any royalties from it,” he said.
ZBC public relations manager Tsitsi Kanonge, however, referred questions to Zimura, which receives royalty remittances from the broadcaster for music aired on TV and radio.
“For all questions related to artistes’ royalties, the appropriate entity to contact is Zimura. Because we are different entities altogether, and as ZBC, we do not have the liberty nor capacity to comment on Zimura’s operations,” she said.
Unity is regularly played on radio and television since its release 32 years ago to urge unity among Zimbabweans.
NewsDay
ZEC Calls For Bulawayo By Election
Own Correspondent|The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) has set March 2 as the date for a by-election to select a candidate to replace incumbent Bulawayo’s ward 28 (Cowdray Park) councillor, Happy Ncube, who died last month.
Acting chief elections officer Utloile Silaigwana said the nomination court will sit on January 25 to receive candidates for the poll.
“The nomination court to receive nomination for ward 28 of Bulawayo Municipality shall sit at the offices of the town clerk Municipal Chambers Building, Fife Street Bulawayo,” he said.
Zec also announced dates for by elections of two wards in Matabeleland South, one in Beitbridge and the other in Matobo after the wards fell vacant due to deaths as well.
Silaigwana said nominations had been conducted for ward 15 in Beitbridge rural district and ward 25 in Matobo rural district.
He said in Beitbridge ward 15, two candidates, Rabson Mbedzi for Zanu PF and Victor Moyo of MDC Alliance, had been nominated.
Candidates nominated for ward 25 in Matobo are Sibonginkosi Dube of Zanu PF and Elkanah Sibanda of MDC Alliance.
“Polling shall take place on February 23 from 7am to 7pm in the respective wards as more than one candidate was nominated for election to the office of councillor for the said wards,” Silaigwana said.
ZANU PF Youth Celebrate Fuel Price Increase
The Zanu PF Youth League says the upward review of the price of fuel announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday is a welcome development, even though it was long overdue.
Deputy Secretary of the Zanu PF Youth League Lewis Mathuthu told journalists at the party headquarters on Sunday that the new fuel prices announced by President Mnangagwa sets Zimbabwe’s fuel prices at par with the rest of the SADC region.
Mathuthu said Zimbabwe will no longer be taken advantage of by other countries that were hoarding fuel from the country because it was cheaper.
National Political Commissar of the Zanu PF Youth League Godfrey Tsenengamu warned those who want to demonstrate against the government to seek more positive alternatives to improving the economy.
President Mnangagwa announced yesterday evening an upward review of fuel prices to $3.11 a litre for diesel and $3.31 for petrol from an average $1.32 and $1.38 respectively.
The new prices are expected to trigger availability of fuel in the country following shortages over the past few months, a situation that was worsening last week prior to this latest intervention by government.
Zbc News online
Border Soldiers Thoroughly Assault 24 Year Old Beitbridge Chief Accuse Him Of Lying That He Is A Chief
Correspondent|BEITBRIDGE traditional chief David Mbedzi (24) known as Chief Sitauze was yesterday allegedly assaulted by members of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) inside the Beitbridge Border Post.
Apparently, the soldiers did not believe Mbedzi, who is 24, was indeed a traditional leader, despite his explanation to them.
“They humiliated me; they threw me down and assaulted me. Even when I told them of my position, they did not listen and continued physically abusing me,” Sitauze said.
Immigration manager at Beitbridge Nqobile Ncube said he would assign officers to investigate the issue while the officer-in-charge at Beitbridge police was not reachable.
Sitauze said he was going to engage Chiefs’ Council president Fortune Charumbira to have soldiers removed from the border post.
“I don’t believe that is why they are here,” he said, adding he was in pain.
ZNA members deployed to restore order at the Beitbridge Border Post have of late been accused of abusing travellers and interfering with Customs and Excise, Immigration and other border official roles.
The public has often accused them of demanding bribes from border jumpers and smugglers.
ZNA spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Alphios Makotore could not be reached for comment yesterday.
Police And Army Deployed In Major Towns Ahead Of Proposed Protests Against Economic Collapse
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed officers in all residential areas, shopping centres and the Central Business District to conduct patrols, surveillance and stop and search following some social media articles agitating Zimbabweans to engage in violence and unsanctioned demonstrations.
In a statement yesterday, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Cain Mathema implored Zimbabweans to disregard the social media posts.
“My ministry assures all peace loving citizens and visitors that the Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed officers in all residential, shopping centres and CBD to conduct patrols, surveillance, stop and search and in the process account for unruly elements who may try to disturb the tranquil environment which is prevailing in the country,” he said.
“May I urge Zimbabweans to continue undertaking their various social and economic activities as usual. Members of the public should feel free to access services from various entities without any hindrance.”
In the same vein, said Minister Mathema, transport operators should continue to offer services to potential passengers as stipulated in their Road Service Permits and Route Authorities.
He urged drivers to report any acts of intimidation and incitement to commit violence to the police for swift action to be taken.
“My ministry has implored security agencies to take action on some rogue groups who are circulating old photo-shopped videos and pictures of purported violence and demonstrations on the pretext that this is taking place in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Mathema.
“The Commissioner-General of Police has put the Zimbabwe Republic Police on high alert and will ensure that the law is applied without fear or favour on anyone who incites or engages in any form of violence and unsanctioned gathering.”
The Zanu-PF Youth League also issued a stern warning against opposition elements bent on causing chaos in the country.
Addressing a Press conference yesterday, Youth League national deputy secretary Lewis Matutu said: “We will not allow the opposition to push us into a corner, we know they have promised to destroy cars and infrastructure, so we say to them this is not going to help anyone, it is either them or us, no one is going to be helped by demonstrations.
“This is not a church, obviously we will not sit down and watch them destroy us, causing anarchy and violence in Zimbabwe. That is not going to happen.”
Matutu said people should not be misled by the opposition.
“So, those people who are going to be very unfortunate to be misled we would like to say to them at the end of the day after you would have been abused and used to cause violence in town, at the end of the day you will go back to your homes,” he said.
“These demonstrations are not going to provide these basic commodities to you. Our appeal is not to the MDC, but to the general public as they are the ones who my then be caught unaware of the consequences, so we say to them do not be misled or abused.”
State Media
Mayhem Over Mnangagwa’s Fuel Price Hikes
MOTORISTS, economists, opposition parties and the commuting public yesterday reacted angrily to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s move to hike fuel prices by 150%, which triggered a wave of price increases on almost all commodities and services, further plunging the populace into hardship.
There was chaos in most towns and cities around the country as commuters woke up to astronomically high fares following the price increases announced by Mnangagwa on Saturday night.
The increases saw the price of diesel jumping from $1,26 to $3,11 a litre, while petrol now sells at $3,31 up from $1,34 per litre.
Renowned economist John Robertson said although the fuel price increase made economic sense, it would bring about some undesired consequences such as increasing the cost of living and pushing up inflation by between 40% and 50%.
“There will be steep increases in other costs. Increasing prices of fuel was the right thing to do. We had a wrong exchange rate. Fuel was too cheap and people from other countries were refuelling in Zimbabwe,” Robertson said.
“This was necessary. Unfortunately, (it) has side effects. This will trigger wage demands, inflation 40% and 50% before long. The companies are not making money already and they will close down. This will lead to serious job losses.”
He said government’s 1:1 exchange rate between the United States dollar and the local surrogate currency, the bond note, was unrealistic.
“They want to run the exchange rate as a privilege to other people. This is fuelling corruption,” he said.
Another economist Emmanuel Mugadza said the increase was a subtle admission by Mnangagwa that the local currency had failed to match the US$, although the Zanu PF leader cannot openly say so.
“This is a step in the right direction, but painful because the rising costs are not corresponding with income. The fuel hike will trigger price increases and ordinary Zimbabweans will suffer,” he said.
Mugadza said Zimbabwe needed a long-term solution to the fuel crisis, challenging Mnangagwa to move fast in ensuring the country revamps its exports to generate more foreign currency for the economy to be stable.
Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) president Sifelani Jabangwe said the hike in fuel prices was a long overdue move that would, however, be painful.
“After three years and not a price increase, with the distortions in the market, it was more necessary, but will be painful,” Jabangwe said.
“Things could have become worse without the increase. Right now, we will enter into discussions or we can go into other costs, including compensation of labour.”
Most motorists who spoke to NewsDay expressed dismay that the prices would push up other costs.
“I have been in the queue since Thursday and was hoping to get fuel today, only to be told the prices have increased. That is insensitive. I now need about $200 to fill up my tank when in the past I needed $80,” one angry motorist who refused to be named said.
“The percentage increase is just too high. We cannot afford it.”
Another motorist who only identified himself as Patrick said: “They hiked the prices and yet there is no fuel. I think they created a worse situation to justify increasing the prices, as if the new 2% tax they levied us is not enough.”
Most commuters said they would not be able to report to work in the wake of new fares today.
They said it was mid-month and it was tough to adjust their budgets.
Civil servants, who are negotiating for salary increases, have threatened to down tools, claiming they were now incapacitated to go to work. They have rejected a 10% salary hike offer by government.
“We won’t manage the new fares. Some will go to work on foot, or even sleep at work and go home on Fridays for the weekend. The situation is tough,” Cecilia, who works as a shop attendant in the capital’s central business district, said.
The Nelson Chamisa-led MDC said Mnangagwa’s fuel price hike was shocking and misguided.
“That the fuel increase will only trigger a wave of price hikes on each and every other item on the shelves is as obvious as the incapacity of Zanu PF to govern and lead a prosperous Zimbabwe,” the opposition party spokesperson Jacob Mafume said.
“Instead of accepting its gross failure to turn the economy around, the cartel now basks in the pretence of ‘mega deals’ in curious corners of the forgotten world such as Uzbekistan, Khazakistan, and other places you may never have heard of.
“The Zimbabwean commuter will, starting Sunday (yesterday), fill the pinch of this administration’s hopelessness, while Mnangagwa and his scarfed henchmen will be comfortably flying Swiss jets.”
Mnangagwa was expected to leave last night on an official visit to five Asian and European countries.
Obert Gutu, deputy president of the Thokozani Khupe-led MDC-T, said the increase in the prices of fuel would have a ripple effect across all facets of the economy.
“People will have to fork out more money for transport as it is inevitable that kombi and bus fares will rise at least threefold,” Gutu said.
“Wages and salaries for the few people who are still lucky enough to be in formal employment are still very low compared to the skyrocketing prices of basic goods and services such that there is a complete and total disconnect between people’s earnings and their expenditure.”
Added Gutu: “The hike in the price of fuel will trigger a highly inflationary impact on the prices of basic foodstuffs such as bread, mealie-meal and cooking oil since producers and traders will be paying more for their fuel requirements.
“The national economy is in a total mess and now is the time for all concerned Zimbabwean patriots to put our heads together and chart a united way forward as we seek to navigate the treacherous socio-economic terrain. It cannot continue to be business as usual going forward.”
In Karoi yesterday, farmers who battled for too long to secure fuel suffered double trouble following fuel price hikes.
“Service stations say they do not have fuel besides the hike announced by President. This is unbelievable for us as rains are now upon us, but fuel remains a big challenge,” a farmer, Dennis Maramba, said.
“As it stands, the cash crisis hampered our operations and this hike will affect our projections as we are getting out of budget due to government’s lack of better planning.”
In Gweru, there was chaos at the long-distance bus terminus, Kudzanayi yesterday morning after travellers en-route to Mutare from Kwekwe were introduced to new fares before arriving at their destination.
The travellers, who were boarding a local bus, had initially been charged $20 on departure from Mbizo shopping centre in Kwekwe at around 4am.
However, upon arrival in Gweru, the bus operator raised the fare to $45 after receiving information of the fuel price hikes.
Hordes of commuters in the Midlands capital yesterday walked to the city as they woke up to increased fares as a result of a hike in fuel prices.
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions, the MDC as well as teachers have threatened mass protests today over the hikes and the deteriorating economic situation in the country.
Civic group Tajamuka/Sesijikile’s spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said they would mobilise motorists on fuel queues for a mass action against Mnangagwa’s administration.
“We will deploy in all places, fuel and bank queues, to mobilise people for action against Mnangagwa. We will roll out the programme tomorrow (today), he said.
NewsDay
ZANU PF Youth Warn MDC Of A Street Fight If They Protest Against Mnangagwa
NATIONAL Political Commissar of the Zanu PF Youth League Godfrey Tsenengamu has warned those who want to demonstrate against Government to seek more positive alternatives to improving the economy
“We are not going to fold our hands, we will meet blow by blow if the need arises. This (country) is not a church, we will not sit down and watch them causing anarchy. This is not going to happen. If they start, they must be ready for the consequences,” Tsenengamu told journalists at the ZANU-PF headquaurters on Sunday.
“Our position is very clear; we will not allow the opposition to put us in the corner. We are humans and we might at one time be forced to react,” Zanu PF national youth commissar Godfrey Tsenengamu said.
The MDC youths have threatened to protest this week against the economic meltdown characterised by shortages of basic commodities and price hikes.
The party’s previous protests in Harare have attracted a lot of participants.
MDC youth secretary-general Denford Ngadziore yesterday scoffed at the Zanu PF threats, saying no amount of intimidation would stop the wheels of change.
“Demonstration is our constitutional right. We don’t budge to those threats. These are the same youths who demonstrated against (former President) Robert Mugabe because they knew it was their democratic right. I treat their utterances as empty threats,” Ngadziore said.
Deputy Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Energy Mutodi also said that Zimbabweans should brace for a surge in prices after the government hiked fuel prices on Saturday night.
Mutodi also warned Zimbabweans not to go into the streets in protest against the fuel price increases as the government will not hesitate to use force to put down such kind of demonstrations.
Wrote Mutodi: “New fuel prices will stamp out arbitrage in the fuel sector and normalize fuel supply but Zimbabweans must brace for commodity price volatility emanating from the fuel price shock.
“Volatility will be temporary before goods prices normalise.
“Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do and here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips and use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limb in skirmishes.”
Tsenengamu warned that the MDC should know that protests have not helped anything in the history of Zimbabwe.
Zanu PF deputy youth secretary Lewis Mathuthu said they recently met and resolved not to tolerate opposition attempts to revolt against government.
He defended Mnangagwa’s recent fuel price hike, saying it was long overdue.
“I am very happy that the price of fuel has finally been pegged up to standard in terms of what other countries are doing. A lot of fuel was going out of the country. A lot of our fuel was going to Mozambique, South Africa and DRC,” Mathuthu alleged.
He also warned manufactures and retailers against raising prices of commodities, saying they were already exorbitant.
“We do not expect the prices of other commodities to go up because they are already exorbitant and it was only fuel that was very low and government was carrying the burden of subsidising fuel using foreign currency, something that we don’t have,” he said.
NewsDay
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube “Cushions” Business In A Bid To Stop Price Hikes
Park Your Cars And Use Bicycles If You Can’t Afford Fuel, Minister Tells Zimbabweans
By Paul Nyathi| Deputy Information Minister Energy Mutodi – the second top ranking government spokesperson – has told Zimbabweans to park their cars and use bicycles if they can not afford the high fuel charges introduced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the weekend.
In a widely condemned Twitter post on Sunday, Mutodi also issued a chilling threat on Zimbabweans contemplating to protest in the streets against Mnangagwa’s economic failures, warning they may “lose a limb”.
Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do & here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips & use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limp in skirmishes.
— Dr Energy Mutodi (@energymutodi) January 13, 2019
Transport operators and businesses were reviewing their prices upwards on Sunday after Mnangagwa said his government raised the price of petrol to $3,31, up from $1,38, while diesel will now sell for $3,11 per litre up from $1,32.
Mnangagwa said the shock increase, which would make fuel unaffordable for many Zimbabweans, would address a “persistent shortfall in the fuel market attributable to the increased fuel usage in the economy and compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities.”
“Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do and here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips and use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limp (sic) in skirmishes,” Mutodi said on Twitter.
Mutodi’s warning that Zimbabweans will “lose limbs” appeared designed to harvest the fear induced by the August 1 street shooting of 35 opposition activists by the military in central Harare during protests against delays in announcing results of the Presidential Election held on July 30 last year.
MDC leader Nelson Chamisa on Saturday said he was ready to “lead and stand ready to play a key role in finding a lasting solution,” but has not outlined what his party intends to do to bring the pressure to bear on the Zanu PF government which he has refused to recognise since the disputed election.
Russian State Media Ignores Mnangagwa And Chiwenga
Russian state media has ignored Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga.
By A Correspondent| As ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa flew to Russia last night, it emerged that the last time his name was mentioned in the Russian community, was back in August 2018.
This came despite celebratory articles in the ZANU PF state media at the weekend claiming Putin would meet Mnangagwa this week.
The absence of even a single mention of the man whose claim to presidency is a number-less court verdict by Chief Justice Luke Malaba made Mnangagwa (whose administration has destroyed Russian businesses), appear lower than a Zimbabwean civilian.
As reflected in database print-outs, Mnangagwa was last mentioned in the Russian community back in August, on the 26th, 48 hours after Luke Malaba’s controversial constitutional court verdict. The last time when his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga attempted to see President Putin in Moscow, he was bunked by the premier.
Despite boasting of visiting Moscow in August 2018, when he hoped to meet President Vladimir Putin, Chiwenga has been blighted by the Russian media and the last mention of him was back in December 2017 soon after removing Robert Mugabe. (BELOW WERE SOME OF THE DATABASE PRINT OUTS)
Chiwenga had hoped to get a media moment with President Putin where he would present a special nation-to-nation message. There was also a claim in the ZANU-PF state media that Chiwenga would meet Russian investors. But there was none at all visible, and furthermore no citing or media mention anywhere in Russia of Chiwenga. ZANU PF has gained a bad reputation in Russia of violating contracts granted to that country’s citizens. One of the contracts reneged by ZANU PF is a government to government mining business established in 1995 called DTZ.
Following the clear blackout, ZimEye.com in August had a conversation with one of the editors of the Russian television station, RT. The English speaking female was grilled on why Chiwenga’s visit was totally ignored by her station.
During the entire discourse, she refused to explain reasons why there was no mention of Chiwenga’s visit to that country.
“I am sorry but we can’t help you,” she said.
“I can’t help you,” she continued.
When pressed on why she could not explain or at least point to their failure to cover Chiwenga’s visit, she was non committal even to the point of refusing to reveal their running diary of President Putin’s itinerary.
The only person Chiwenga met was Russia’s Defence Minister General Sergei Shoigu, at the 2018 edition of International Army Games. The two met just before they visited the Zimbabwean stand at the House of Friendship before they proceeded to the VIP pavilion to see the final event — the tank biathlon. That was back in August and ever since then, there has been no mention of Chiwenga anywhere in the Russian media. (BELOW WERE SOME OF THE DATABASE PRINT OUTS)
The Last Time “Mnangagwa” Was Ever Mentioned In Russian Media, Was Back During Malaba Period, August 2018 | IS HE REALLY MEETING PUTIN?
By A Correspondent| As ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa flew to Russia last night, it emerged that the last time his name was mentioned in the Russian community, was back in August 2018.
This came despite celebratory articles in the ZANU PF state media at the weekend claiming Putin would meet Mnangagwa this week.
The absence of even a single mention of the man whose claim to presidency is a number-less court verdict by Chief Justice Luke Malaba made Mnangagwa (whose administration has destroyed Russian businesses), appear lower than a Zimbabwean civilian.
As reflected in database print-outs, Mnangagwa was last mentioned in the Russian community back in August, on the 26th, 48 hours after Luke Malaba’s controversial constitutional court verdict. The last time when his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga attempted to see President Putin in Moscow, he was bunked by the premier.
Despite boasting of visiting Moscow in August 2018, when he hoped to meet President Vladimir Putin, Chiwenga has been blighted by the Russian media and the last mention of him was back in December 2017 soon after removing Robert Mugabe. (BELOW WERE SOME OF THE DATABASE PRINT OUTS)
Chiwenga had hoped to get a media moment with President Putin where he would present a special nation-to-nation message. There was also a claim in the ZANU-PF state media that Chiwenga would meet Russian investors. But there was none at all visible, and furthermore no citing or media mention anywhere in Russia of Chiwenga. ZANU PF has gained a bad reputation in Russia of violating contracts granted to that country’s citizens. One of the contracts reneged by ZANU PF is a government to government mining business established in 1995 called DTZ.
Following the clear blackout, ZimEye.com in August had a conversation with one of the editors of the Russian television station, RT. The English speaking female was grilled on why Chiwenga’s visit was totally ignored by her station.
During the entire discourse, she refused to explain reasons why there was no mention of Chiwenga’s visit to that country.
“I am sorry but we can’t help you,” she said.
“I can’t help you,” she continued.
When pressed on why she could not explain or at least point to their failure to cover Chiwenga’s visit, she was non committal even to the point of refusing to reveal their running diary of President Putin’s itinerary.
The only person Chiwenga met was Russia’s Defence Minister General Sergei Shoigu, at the 2018 edition of International Army Games. The two met just before they visited the Zimbabwean stand at the House of Friendship before they proceeded to the VIP pavilion to see the final event — the tank biathlon. That was back in August and ever since then, there has been no mention of Chiwenga anywhere in the Russian media. (BELOW WERE SOME OF THE DATABASE PRINT OUTS)
Does President Putin Meet Idiots?
Be Honest, Will President Putin Tolerate Mnangagwa Who Chased Out Russian Businessmen And Pushed Out $16billion Investors in 2018 Alone?
— ZimEye (@ZimEye) January 12, 2019
Dr Thokozani Khupe’s Christmas Khupe Opens Up On Her Life
By Own Correspondent|| MDC-T president Thokozani Khupe has opened up about her life revealing that she is a single mother of three children.
The veteran opposition leader revealed that she was born on November 18, 1963, at Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo.
Below are excerpts from the interview:
I am a proud single mother of three children, twin boys and a girl. Two lawyers and an accountant.
Having dual roles has never been easy. Our children have grown up without enjoying being with us because we spend most of our time doing political work than attending to our families. This is so because as a leader you automatically seize to be a mother of your children and you become a mother to everyone.
Khupe revealed that she wanted to be a soldier in order to defend the country from its enemies;
:€I wanted to be a soldier because I wanted to defend my country from enemies. I then became a politician where I have spent almost half of my life fighting for equal opportunities for all, and I will continue to fight for equal opportunities until every Zimbabwean has a better life.”
She castigated leaders who do engage in violence to stay in power. Said Khupe;
Leaders come and go, we must all understand that we will have this leader now and tomorrow it will be another leader. The problem that we have is that we have power hungry people who don’t want to respect their own constitution, people who want to usurp power through violence, through unconstitutional means, through discrimination.
This is the poison that we have with other political leaders. In life, you must learn to wait for your time to come and stop fast-tracking yourself into a leadership position through unprocedural means. This bad behaviour must not be allowed to continue.-DailyNews
ZCTU Calls For Mass Stay Away Over Increasing Prices Versus Stagnant Salaries
By Own Correspondent| Zimbabwe’s largest trade union, the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has called on its members nationwide to join in a mass stay way.
The organisation revealed that the job action will start at midnight on Sunday and will be ongoing indefinitely.
ZCTU announced the stay away on it’s Twitter page.
Read the statement:
“After wide consultations, the ZCTU General Council resolved to call for a nationwide STAY AWAY with effect from midnight today following the insensitive and provocative increase of fuel price by the President of Zimbabwe.
Workers have been facing serious hardships as a result of the general astronomical price increases since last year against stagnant salaries. The fuel increase added more misery to the suffering working class of Zimbabwe both in formal and informal sectors.
The action will be embarked on an incremental basis and include other forms of actions that will be advised in due course.
There is nothing else pushing the workers besides the starvation and hardships afflicting every working-class household. Think about your family and do the right thing.”
Mthuli Ncube Promises To Forfeit Ministers’ Luxury Vehicles For Ambulances
By Own Correspondent| Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has promised to forfeit the purchase of condition of service vehicles for all ministers, saying he will instead use the money to purchase a fleet of new ambulances for public health facilities.
Government has 21 Cabinet Ministers, 14 Deputy Ministers and nine Ministers of State.
Cabinet Ministers were usually given an executive car and two off-road vehicles as part of their condition of service.
Deputy Ministers were given an executive car and one off-roader.
During a town hall meeting organised by Global Shapers Community Harare on Friday, Ncube said:
“By the way, our strategy for showing how we are using resources also shows in the way we are making savings.
I have said to all the ministers, my colleagues and all the Members of Parliament, that we shouldn’t have these fancy cars.
We have not authorised the purchase of a car for a minister in Zimbabwe. None! I have said to them, you know I need the money to buy ambulances, I need ambulances and that is what I am going to buy with the savings from the cars for the ministers; that is what I am going to do.
So we are very serious about this austerity, about walking the talk, about meeting the people of Zimbabwe halfway, about using their 2 percent taxes properly.
The 2 percent tax is not about paying to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, it’s about us giving back to the people what they contributed in the first place and covering the areas where we think we can create the right type of goods for everyone to benefit from.”-StateMedia
ED Wanted Me Dead In The Run up to July 30 Polls: Gandawa
By Own Correspondent| Zanu Pf stalwart and former Higher Education deputy minister Godfrey Gandawa revealed why he is on the run, claiming that the current administration wanted him dead in the run up to the July 30 harmonised polls.
Gandawa , whose whereabouts remain a mystery said he had received credible information from sources within the security to the effect that state security agents wanted to harm him.
A warrant of arrest was issued against Gandawa in November last year after he failed to appear before High Court judge Justice Tawanda Chitapi for trial in a case in which he is facing 14 counts of defrauding Zimdef of over $400 000.
In an interview from an undisclosed location, Gandawa said he had to sleep in the mountains after he was tipped off that his Magunje homestead would be raided a few days before the July 30 elections.
Gandawa, who contested the Magunje seat as an independent candidate, said he had no option but to flee after receiving information that there were people out to harm him.
‘‘I got a tip-off from one of the Military Intelligence Department (MID) operatives who was part of the team assigned to assassinate me. My source told me not to sleep at home that day since there were five men from state security who were going to kill me between 1am and 2am,” he said.
He said he then decided to hide in the nearby mountain where he could see whatever happened at his homestead.
“I did this to ascertain if the raid was going to happen or if it was just a threat to disturb my campaign since I was doing well on the ground,” he said.
Gandawa’s last campaign message was more visible on social media where he called on the electorate to dump Zanu PF.
The former Zanu PF Magunje MP whose boss at the Higher and Tertiary Education ministry, Jonathan Moyo, is also on the run following the November 2017 coup, said while on the mountain, he indeed saw state security agents raid his rural home and watched them as they abducted his mother, younger brother and two other relatives.
He said this forced him to run away during that night after his fears were confirmed.
Gandawa added that his family members were not safe even now as they were frequently harassed by suspected state security agents.
‘‘My property is being vandalised by Zanu PF militants. I can’t say I am safe since I have been in hiding for over six months now,” he said.
Gandawa said there was no change in Zimbabwe as everything in the country was being militarised.
“One cannot exercise their democratic right freely and that is shameful after 39 years of self-rule. There is no respect for human and property rights because currently Zanu PF supporters are vandalising my properties disregarding the rule of law,” he said.
“Even if you make a police report, no action is taken because the whole system is captured. Zimbabwe is still to mature politically because at the moment the country does not have institutions but a conflated system, where if you are not Zanu PF, you are an enemy.”
Gandawa was, however, hopeful that he would one day get the chance to develop Hurungwe.-TheStandard
Bhasikiti Tells Mujuru To Join Chamisa
Correspondent|FORMER Masvingo Provincial Minister Kudakwashe Bhasikiti has called on the National People’s Party (NPP) president Joice Mujuru to dissolve her party and join the Nelson Chamisa-led MDC.
Bhasikiti is a former member of the ruling ZANU-PF as well as the Zimbabwe People First (ZPF), which was led by Mujuru, before she left to form the splinter NPP.
Mujuru and Bhasikiti, a former Masvingo Provincial Affairs minister, are both former members of the ruling Zanu PF party.
The former vice president, along with a coterie of her backers, including Bhasikiti, Ray Kaukonde, Dzikamai Mavhaire, Didymus Mutasa and Rugare Gumbo, among others, were shown the door by former president Robert Mugabe in 2014.
Mujuru and her cabal were expelled on allegations of seeking to topple Mugabe from power.
Her dismissal saw 15 ministers being dropped from Mugabe’s Cabinet, in a serious carnage that threatened to break the party.
Bhasikiti and Mavhaire are now members of the MDC, while Mutasa has since been readmitted into Zanu PF.
Mujuru, who has gone into hibernation since the July 30, 2018 harmonised elections, has been deserted by a number of her supporters, who have either joined the MDC or Zanu PF.
In a Twitter post, Bhasikiti said Mujuru must join the MDC in order to fulfill her dream for change in the country.
“I still believe…Mujuru should honour not only those she caused to be sacked from ZPF but also the masses which supported her to see change in Zimbabwe, by joining hands with the MDC as the change agent…,” Bhasikiti said.
Mujuru made waves after forming the ZPF, some months after leaving Zanu PF.
Observers believed she had a chance to create a formidable force in the country’s political space.
However, a few months after its formation, ZPF split because of irreconcilable differences between its founders.
Mutasa and Gumbo were among those who clung to the party’s name and offices while Mujuru moved on to form the NPP. Mutasa was to later dump the ZPF after being readmitted into the ruling party late last year.
Before their sacking in 2014, Mutasa was the party’s secretary for administration while Gumbo was its spokesperson. Both were members of the party’s politburo.
LIVE – Mutodi Says People Will Lose Their Limbs If They Protest
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FULL TEXT: Thokozani Khupe Interview
Q: Who is Thokozani Khupe; where and when was she born?
A: Thokozani Khupe was born on November 18, 1963 at Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo.
Q: How many are you in your family?
A: We were seven and two of my brothers, the first and second born passed on. We are now five — three girls and two boys.
Q: What do you cherish the most about your childhood?
A: My parents loved us so much, but my mother was a serious disciplinarian and l am very grateful to my parents for bringing me to the woman that I am today especially my mother. May their souls rest in eternal peace. I was a very smart girl and at school I got prizes almost every year for being the smartest pupil.
Q: Please tell us about your education, from primary school up to the highest qualification you hold?
A: I did my primary education at Mpumelelo and Gampu primary schools in Bulawayo. I then proceeded to St Bernard’s Secondary School in Pumula, Bulawayo where l did my “O” Level from 1979 to 1982. I did a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media Studies from 2000 to 2004 with the Zimbabwe Open University (Zou); l then did an MBA with the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) in 2009.
I furthered my studies and did a Phd with the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) from 2011 to 2017, my thesis was: The Informal Sector and Empowerment of Women, a Study of Women Informal retail traders in flea markets in Bulawayo.
Q: Are you married, are you a family woman; how many children do you have?
A: I am a proud single mother of three children, twin boys and a girl. Two lawyers and an accountant.
Q: How do you balance work and family?
A: Having dual roles has never been easy. Our children have grown up without enjoying being with us because we spend most of our time doing political work than attending to our families. This is so because as a leader you automatically seize to be a mother of your children and you become a mother to everyone.
Q: While growing up which profession did you wish to pursue and why?
A: I wanted to be a soldier because I wanted to defend my country from enemies. I then became a politician where I have spent almost half of my life fighting for equal opportunities for all, and I will continue to fight for equal opportunities until every Zimbabwean has a better life.
Q: Who is your source of inspiration?
A: My mother is my source of inspiration, she wanted a better life for us, and I am who I am today because of my mother.
Q: Your battle with breast cancer, what life lessons did you learn from the experience?
A: I learnt that early detection of cancer saves lives, and that it is important to go for cancer screening every year because once cancer is diagnosed early it can be treated. I also learnt that prevention is better than cure.
Q: As a woman in politics, what challenges have you met? Is there a place for women in Zimbabwean politics?
A: l have faced enormous challenges, l have been beaten, l have been called names, l have been discriminated against based on my gender and tribe, l have been told that a woman cannot be president which l vehemently rejected, hence why l stood as a presidential candidate and l am very proud for coming third out of 23 candidates against all odds.
In terms of a place for women in Zimbabwean politics, the ball is in women’s hands, they are the ones who must create that space because women are the majority voters, but the sad reality is that they are not voting for other women.
Q: There are sentiments that MDC will never be the same without the late leader Morgan Tsvangirai; what do you think about such views? Do you wish Tsvangirai was still alive; do you miss working with him?
A: Leaders come and go, we must all understand that we will have this leader now and tomorrow it will be another leader. The problem that we have is that we have power hungry people who don’t want to respect their own constitution, people who want to usurp power through violence, through unconstitutional means, through discrimination.
This is the poison that we have with other political leaders. In life you must learn to wait for your time to come and stop fast tracking yourself into a leadership position through unprocedural means. This bad behaviour must not be allowed to continue.
Dr Morgan Tsvangirai played his part very well and he will always be remembered. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Q: Zimbabwe is going through a crisis; as a leader what do you think can be done to turn around the situation?
A: The Zimbabwean economy has been on the decline for more than three decades now and honestly speaking there will not be a quick fix to this economy. Zimbabwe is not producing and exporting, therefore there is no new money coming into the country.
The manufacturing sector, the agricultural sector and the mining sector must start to produce and export finished goods for that matter in order for this country to get the much-needed foreign currency. Therefore, government must be aggressive on macroeconomic fundamentals so that they build this economy on a strong economic foundation.
Zimbabwe must get back to its former glory that of being the Jewel of Africa, that of being the bread basket of Africa, that of being the Sunshine City, that of being the envy of the whole world. I pray that one day we will get there.
Q: Away from work what do you enjoy doing?
A: These days I spend most of my time in the village. My passion is rural transformation. l have a dream where every Zimbabwean will get equal opportunities in terms of food, shelter, electricity, water amongst others.
I am working on a biogas project which l will use for cooking and lighting. I want to show my neighbours that cow dung can produce energy for cooking, lighting and cooling.
Q: What are your words of inspiration to young women out there?
A: As women we are leaders in our own right and young women must believe in themselves, they must have confidence in themselves, they must have dreams and follow them through.
Come 2023 we want to see change in that we want to see more women occupying leadership positions and the power lies in women’s hands.
In the previous elections 54 percent women voted but they failed to place more women in spaces where they could influence policy for the good of women and their families.
Our numbers as women must also reflect in the number of women in parliament, women in local authorities, and women in cabinet.
The 50-50 concept’s achievement lies in women’s hands. Let’s use our vote wisely and vote for other women in order for us to be part of the leaders in the Zimbabwean.
-Daily News
Two People Murdered In Harare
Two people have been murdered in separate incidents in Harare over the weekend.
One of the victims was a petrol attendant at a local service station in Eastlea while the other victim is from Mabvuku.
A 22 year old man was last night murdered in Eastlea and was allegedly dumped at an apostolic sect church near a stream.
Residence discovered the body of the young man and identified him early this morning.
The victim is alleged to have been stabbed more than three times on his neck and his clothes were taken.
Less than 400 meters from the crime scene, the ZBC crew saw a cap, one shoe and blood suggesting that there was another person who was attacked.
Residence revealed that a number of people have fallen victim to robbery and mugging.
Cases of murder are a sign of lack of respect to the sanctity of human life.
This comes as the world is moving towards abolishment of capital punishment.
State Media
Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema Says The Police Is Out In Full Force To Thwart Planned Demo
By Own Correspondent| Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Cain Mathema has revealed that the Zimbabwe Republic Police is out in full force to deal with unruly elements seeking to disturb the peace and tranquility in the nation following social media calls for mass protests.
Mathema also warned the public to disregard social media posts calling on citizens to engage in civil disobedience adding that the ZRP has deployed officers in all residential, shopping centres and central business districts to conduct patrols, surveillance, stop and search and in the process account for all unruly elements bent on disturbing the peaceful environment in Zimbabwe.
Said Mathema:
“May I urge Zimbabweans to continue undertaking their various social and economic activities as usual. Members of the public should feel free to access services from various entities without any hindrances.
In the same vein, transport operators should continue to offer services to potential passengers as stipulated in their road services permits and route authorities.
Public service vehicles drivers should report any acts of intimidation and incitement to commit violence to the police for swift action to be taken.”-StateMedia
Zanu Pf Youth League Hails Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Move To Increase Fuel Prices
By Own Correspondent| Zanu PF’s Youth wing has welcomed the upward review of the price of fuel announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last night adding that the review was long overdue.
The party’s Deputy Secretary, Lewis Mathuthu told journalists at the party headquarters on Sunday that the new fuel prices announced by Mnangagwa sets Zimbabwe’s fuel prices at par with the rest of the SADC region.
Mathuthu said Zimbabwe will no longer be taken advantage of by other countries that were hoarding fuel from the country because it was cheaper.
National Political Commissar of the Zanu PF Youth League Godfrey Tsenengamu warned those who want to demonstrate against Government to seek more positive alternatives to improving the economy.-StateMedia
“Disregard Social Media Calls For Protest”: Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema
By Own Correspondent| Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Cain Mathema has warned the public to disregard social media posts calling on people to engage in demonstrations.
Mathema said the ZRP has deployed officers in all residential, shopping centres and central business districts to conduct patrols, surveillance, stop and search and in the process account for all unruly elements who may try to disturb the tranquil environment which is prevailing in the country.
Said Mathema:
“May I urge Zimbabweans to continue undertaking their various social and economic activities as usual. Members of the public should feel free to access services from various entities without any hindrances.
In the same vein, transport operators should continue to offer services to potential passengers as stipulated in their road services permits and route authorities.
Public service vehicles drivers should report any acts of intimidation and incitement to commit violence to the police for swift action to be taken.”-StateMedia
LIVE – Kwapisa KuZimbabwe Kuno!
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Zim EFF Calls For National Shutdown
We as ZIM EFF and on behalf of the majority of our people and together with the poor, downtrodden and disposed people of Zimbabwe today declare that we are real victims of Zanu PF’s mismanagement of our country which has resulted in the collapse of the economy.
Many of us ordinary people have lost livelihoods. We are no longer able to put food on the table for our children – the shops are running empty of basic commodities, we are no longer able to get life saving medicines for the sick children and for everyone in the country – the healthcare system has collapsed, our children are no longer able to go to school – the education system has collapsed, the transport system had collapsed because there is no fuel.
Fuel price hikes with all of this and others serious problems the country has been plunged into by this incompetent government , we see evidently clear that there is crisis of political leadership in the country.
The situation in our country has reached proportions of a national disaster. We therefore call upon the government to declare the whole country a national disaster due to the collapse of the state and its primary role of governing.
We believe that declaring a national disaster will open up emergency and critical dialogue amongst all political parties, other stakeholders to address with urgency the unfolding national disaster.
Since Zanu Pf government has lost the control of the economy the high risk for the nation is that the government may soon lose the control of the people. If that were to happen the country will be plunged into a point of no return. Heed this warning.
We believe that Zanu PF alone has no capacity to fix the current problems. It is our firm and considered belief that we need to come together as Zimbabweans and come up with an urgent national plan to save the country.
We as ZIM EFF are very much aware that there is a crisis of intelligent thinking within those in government therefore what is required now is a radical national plan involving others parties outside government.
We propose the following five point plan:
1. Government to declare an economic national disaster throughout the country. This will allow creation of an urgent national plan to save the country.
2. Government to nationalise procurement of basic commodities in the short term – basic commodities like medical supplies, food supplies, fuel etc.
3. Government to freeze all foreign trips by government officials to save the much needed foreign currency.
4. Government to scrap off bond notes (fake money) and replace it with hard currency so that everyone in the country can be paid with real money.
5. Urgent national dialogue meeting to be convened , chaired by a national religious leader of high standing or UN rep , this urgent meeting to come up with a national plan to save the country thereby saving human life . Zimbabweans to discuss an urgent national plan to save the country.
We as ZIM EFF believe that we need to come together as Zimbabweans and solve the crisis urgently. We further understand and have a right of freedom of expression and given the situation we will mobilise together with other progressive fighters in the country to force the government to listen to the people.
As ZIM EFF, we call upon all the fighters throughout the country to mobilise and get ready to take up a radical peaceful revolution to the government.
POWER TO THE PEOPLE TO SAVE THE PEOPLE!
Issued by Zim EFF Media Relations
LIVE: Mnangagwa Announces Election Results At Night, And Price Increases At Night
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We Are Starving in the Garden of Eden Zimbabwe, Damn!
We are starving in the Garden of Eden – damning testimonial on leaders and us all.
By Wilbert Mukori| “38 years of criminal waste of human and material resources through gross mismanagement and rampant corruption by this Zanu-PF regime has destroyed the country’s economy. For decades now, the country has relied on imported food aid, we are so impoverished we cannot even pay for the food,” said Patrick Guramatunhu.
“We live in the day and age where human ingenuity has turn deserts from a sea of sand into a sea of wheat fields and orchards. And yet we, in Zimbabwe, are now starving in a country that is, for all practical purposes, the Garden of Eden. Such is the damning testimonial to the sheer incompetence of Zanu-PF leadership.”
True, that is indeed “a damning testimonial to the sheer incompetence of the Zanu PF leadership”. But it is also a equally damning testimonial to the sheer incompetence of the Zimbabwean populous.
Yes, Zanu PF has used brute force to impose this corrupt and tyrannical regime but it is undeniable that in the last four decades there have been many golden opportunities to end the Zanu PF dictatorship. The best chances ever fell during the 2008 to 2013 GNU when Zanu PF had its hands tied behind its back by the Global Political Agreement (GPA). The party had agreed to the implementation of a raft of reforms to stop it rigging elections.
Whenever the devil and his imps closes the door to imprison good people, sooner or latter the Lord will open a window somewhere for their escape. We cannot say the Lord never opened a window for us. Indeed in the GPA, the Lord had given us a “get out of jail” card.
The question the people of Zimbabwe must answered and answer honestly is; why did the nation waste the many golden opportunities to end the Zanu PF dictatorship?
There are two parts to the honest answer as to why the nation failed to get even one democratic reform implemented in the five years of the GNU:
a. the immediate reason is that Morgan Tsvangirai and his MDC friends whom the nation had risked life and limb to elect into parliament and cabinet sold-out. Mugabe bribed them with the trappings of high office; ministerial limos, generous salaries, a former white-owned farm for Welshman Ncube, a $4 million Highlands mansion for Tsvangirai, etc. In return the MDC leaders kick reforms into the prickly pear thicket.
b. “You can delegate someone else to carry out a given task but cannot delegate the responsibility to see that the task is done!” as my late mother would say. The people of Zimbabwe had risked life and limb, over 500 were murdered and hundreds of thousands had their limbs broken by Zanu PF thugs in the 2008 elections alone; to elect MDC leaders on the ticket they would bring about the democratic changes the nation was dying for. It was the people’s duty and responsibility to make sure the MDC leaders implemented the reforms. The people failed themselves by failing to get MDC to implement even one reform in five years.
It is easy to see why the people were in no position to push Tsvangirai and company to implement the reforms; the people themselves had no clue what the reforms required for meaningful democratic change were much less how they were to be implemented. How can the people supervise the implementation of reforms when they themselves do not know what those reforms are!
Indeed, even to this day with the benefit of hindsight, many Zimbabweans out there still have no clue what the democratic reforms the nation is dying for are.
The EU, Commonwealth and even the country’s own Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission have all come out with elections report giving details of the flaws and illegalities – pointers to the required reforms.
“The electoral commission lacked full independence and appeared to not always act in an impartial manner. The final results as announced by the Electoral Commission contained numerous errors and lacked adequate traceability, transparency and verifiability. ….. many aspects of the 2018 elections in Zimbabwe failed to meet international standards” stated the EU election observer’s final report.
Of course, Zanu PF blatantly rigged last year’s elections. With the country up to her eyes in serious economic trouble precisely because of Zanu PF corrupt and tyrannical rule and after 38 years of the same s***t one had expected the nation to stand up and say enough is enough. They did not!
The news that Zanu PF had blatantly rigged the July 2018 elections produced as much reaction as discharging a shotgun right into a sloth’s face – it slowly open its eyes, blink a few times and go back to sleep.
As a rule of thumb, nations do get the government they deserve. In Zimbabwe we certainly deserve this corrupt, vote rigging and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship complete with its entourage of corrupt and incompetent opposition parties, over 100 at the last count. If the people of Zimbabwe are serious about ending the dictatorship and the economic meltdown that has left millions living on US$1.00 or less a day then they must snap out of their sloth-like slumber! There is no other way out.
Patrick, one rarely, if ever, get quality leaders out of a mediocre society just as one does not get cream, from a bucket of sewage. If you want cream, first get a bucket of wholesome milk! A quality electorate will produce quality leaders, guaranteed.
The country’s characteristic dispositions in war and peace are the marked qualities of the people who live there! Zimbabwe has blundered from pillar to post in keeping with the essential character of the people themselves who cannot be bothered to learn from the past. “Nyika vanhu!” as one would say in Shona. – SOURCE: zsdemocrats.blogspot.com
Govt Asks Povo To Ignore WhatsApp Calls For ShutDown
State Media – The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have expressed concern over some social media articles that are currently agitating citizens to engage in all forms of violence and unsanctioned demonstrations.
In a statement, the Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Ambassador Cain Mathema implored the public to disregard these social media posts.
Ambassador Mathema has assured all peace loving citizens and visitors that the ZRP has deployed officers in all residential, shopping centres and central business districts to conduct patrols, surveillance, stop and search and in the process account for all unruly elements who may try to disturb the tranquil environment which is prevailing in the country.
“May I urge Zimbabweans to continue undertaking their various social and economic activities as usual. Members of the public should feel free to access services from various entities without any hindrances. In the same vein, transport operators should continue to offer services to potential passengers as stipulated in their road services permits and route authorities. Public service vehicles drivers should report any acts of intimidation and incitement to commit violence to the police for swift action to be taken,” read part of the statement.
Ambassador Mathema also said his ministry has implored security agencies to take action on some rogue groups who are circulating old photoshopped videos and pictures of purported violence and demonstrations on the pretext that it is taking place in Zimbabwe.
He added that the Commissioner General of Police Godwin Matanga has put the ZRP on high alert and will ensure that the law is applied without fear or favour on anyone who incites or engages in any form of violence and unsanctioned gathering.
2018; Mnangagwa’s Year Of The Underdog
The year 2018 was the year that the underdogs came to the party and delivered in the music front. The big dogs had the carpet pulled from under their feet without them realising. The usual main actors did not realise that the script had been flipped and they somehow continued reading from the wrong script only to realise at the end when none gave the usual cheer.
In sungura, everyone expected the usual. Its either Alick Macheso would rule the roost, or in his absence, Leonard Zhakata or Peter Moyo would rise to the occasion. Being 2018, the year of the underdog, one Obert Chari stood to be counted pamamonya ipapo, as they say. None, if any, then not many new of Obert Chari before his breakthrough hit, Mebo. He had released an album or two before but the closest most people would say Chari was in reference to yesteryear soccer-star, Henry Chari. His story was even more amazing in that he did well in year that Alick Macheso released, which most sungura artists will tell you is achievement they have not attained. Of course he got a little helping by constant and frequent ‘shoutouts’ from leading Social Media influencer, Plot Mhako, but also a lot of artists got that so Obert Chari deserves his three minutes in the limelight. Whether that will last or it will be flash in pan is a story for another day, but history will record that in 2018, the young and old danced to Mebo by one Obert Chari.
Maybe the underdog who barked loudest was one Enzo Ishall. Enzo had all odds stacked against him. He was an unknown dancehall artist who if he was to make it would have to fight off challenges from the likes of Winky D, Killer T, Soul Jah luv among other constant hitmakers. The year seemed ordinary, or so we thought. What with Killer T releasing as usual earlier in the year. And as usual releasing his hit inclined dancehall scorchers that usually transcend age restrictions. With the year moving towards end, we all expected Winky D to ambush Christmas with a release that would steal the limelight and also the increase his already bulging bank balance. Of course Winky D released but as for the limelight that he intended to steal, he found it already stolen by the Stallion, Enzo Ishall. He started of the year with Ras Caleb sound alike, Matsimba and Handirare Kuden Kwenyu and few in the game took notice . When he released Kanjiva, most thought he would be another Boom Beto, here today and gone tomorrow. But when he came back with Smart Rinotangira kutsoka, those with musical ears then realised that the boy was ‘running away with relay stick’. Towards Winky D time, the year end, he capped the year with Magate, that is still trending with dance challenges on Social Media. He capped a good year by Clinching the number 1 sport on the yearly Zimdancehall chart on Star FM with Kanjiva and the same songs video voted number one on the Cocacola video of the Year competition on ZTV.
ZimHiphop as a genre also saw an unexpected underdog chewing the bone as the topdogs drewled. In Bulawayo, Cal-Vin had been the king of Hiphop for long. He had earned the crown and defended it resolutely. Infact once upon a year, he had ruled the whole of Zimbabwe, Hiphop wise. But forget of the kings, as a new claiment to the crown came up. He said he was no king. He was a Mambo. Asaph had been grinding and hustling the hiphop streets for long and in 2018 the streets
paid him back. His single Ndini Mambo earned him more than one award at the ZimHiphop awards and earned him performances at the Cocacola Unplugged shows and Shoko festival among a whole lot of events he once just dreamed of. This is the kind of story that we usually read when one writes about Stunner, Mudiwa and other hiphop topdogs, but being 2018, it had to be an underdog from the city of kings named Asaph.
Contemporary traditional music had for long been best defined and described as Jah Prayzah’s music. Its a genre Jah has popularised for years somehow the genre and the artist had been interwoven and intertwinned in definition and description. Jah had fought of direct competition from the likes of Sam Dondo and even fiercer competition from once prodigy, Andy Muridzo. With Murudzo having a bad year, a year his personal demons were his worst enemies, Jah Prayzah was supposed be under no pressure at all. Maybe he got too cozy in comfort zone and another former prodigy came back to toment him. To most of Jah Prayzah’s fans, Baba Harare was supposed to be taught gratitude by the tough and unforgiving music industry and eventually come back to Jah Prayzah with his tail in between his legs, the same way most of Alick Macheso deserters did. The previous year he had released Minamato yaRasta, an album which had not caused an ripples in the industry. 2018 was supposed to be the year he would eventually curtail his ego and do the logical thing, rejoining the Third Generation band. But from the forgotten album came his saviour of a song, Hat Dzemurara. It all changed when he did a video for the song and suddenly everyone took notice and the year was never to be the same. Jah Prayzah later released Chitubu with his usual pomp and promotional overdrive. He pawned Dzamutsana as the leading sungle, as he sought to ride on the traditional contemporary beat accompanied by a classy and well directed video. The video did well, garnering unprecedented viewership on YouTube but on the dancefloor, the fans were raising ‘ hat dzemurara.’ As of whether the trend will continue in 2019,that can be anybody’s guess, however what is known as a fact is during the festive season in 2018, most music fans raised their straw hats as another underdog barked very loud
Mutodi Warns On Protests Against “You Will Lose Your Limp,”
THE Deputy Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Energy Mutodi has said that Zimbabweans should brace for a surge in prices after the government hiked fuel prices on Saturday night.
Mutodi also warned Zimbabweans not to go into the streets in protest against the fuel price increases as the government will not hesitate to use force to put down such kind of demonstrations.
Wrote Mutodi: “New fuel prices will stamp out arbitrage in the fuel sector and normalize fuel supply but Zimbabweans must brace for commodity price volatility emanating from the fuel price shock.
“Volatility will be temporary before goods prices normalise.
“Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do and here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips and use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limp in skirmishes.”
“Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do & here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips & use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limp in skirmishes,” he said.
Mutodi’s threats dovetail with what President Mnangagwa said Saturday evening.
Announcing the new high fuel prices at State House, President Mnangagwa warned: “Government is aware of attempts by certain elements bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country.
“Such politically motivated activities will not be tolerated. To curb continued misuse of fuel in the country, Government, through relevant Departments which include its security structures, have started on a comprehensive audit of all fuel draw-downs with a view to establishing points of leakages.”
Zimbabweans reacted with outrage Sunday to a sharp rise in fuel prices announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in a move to improve supplies as the country struggles with its worst gasoline shortages in a decade.
After years of international isolation, Zimbabwe’s economy has been in decline for more than a decade with cash shortages, high unemployment and a recent scarcity of basic staples like bread and cooking oil.
In a televised address late Saturday, Mnangagwa said prices of petrol and diesel would more than double to tackle a shortfall caused by increased demand and “rampant” illegal trading.
Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe and won a disputed election last July, also announced a package of measures to help state workers after strikes by doctors and teachers over poor pay.
He said from midnight Saturday, petrol prices would rise from $1.24 a litre to $3.31 (2.89 euros) and diesel from $1.36 a litre to $3.11.
But many Zimbabweans criticised the move, worrying a knock-on spike in other costs would worsen an already difficult economic situation and trigger protests and strikes.
“I am not a politician and neither am I an economist but you don’t need a rocket scientist to tell you that we are now headed for the worst following the fuel price madness,” said William Masuku, 32, a car dealer in Bulawayo, the country’s second largest city.
Victor Nyoni, head of a local business body, said the fuel prices would push up the cost of other goods. Businesses are likely to pass on the higher transport costs to the consumer.
– Government ‘against the people’ –
The president’s announcement came after fuel shortages which began in October last year worsened in recent weeks with motorists sometimes spending nights in fuel pump queues that stretch for kilometres.
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) said the government had demonstrated a lack of empathy for the already-overburdened poor.
“The government has officially declared its anti-worker, anti-poor and anti-people ideological position,” it said. “Workers’ salaries have been reduced to nothing and our suffering elevated to another level.”
Nelson Chamisa, who heads the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) said the situation was “descending into a humanitarian crisis”.
Evan Mawarire, a cleric and activist who led the 2016 anti-government protests that shut down major cities, said: “You have cornered us and you leave us no choice. It’s time to mobilise every person who truly loves Zimbabwe.”
“Those in government may not admit it but they know in their hearts that they have failed,” said Edmore Phiri, a tired-looking motorist who had just spent a second night in a petrol queue in Avondale suburb.
“We are not going anywhere with these piecemeal solutions that are not solutions.
“You can´t have a country where people sleep in cars for days for a commodity that should be readily available.”
Mnangagwa, who has pledged to revive the moribund economy, blamed the shortfall on increased fuel usage “compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities”.
The government claims fuel prices were lower than in other regional countries, saying some foreigners were taking advantage and buying fuel in bulk for resale elsewhere.
Mnangagwa said the new measures were aimed at curbing a burgeoning speculative parallel market in which fuel was being sold at five times the official price.
“It’s going to reduce demand for fuel because it’s now a bit expensive and that will deal with speculative demand if it was there,” said economist Godfrey Mugano.
Mnangagwa also warned the government would deal harshly with those “bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country”.
Government doctors went on a 40-day strike in early December, demanding salaries in US dollars and improved working conditions, while teachers’ unions called a strike this week for better pay but their calls went largely unheeded.
Although Mnangagwa announced a package of measures “to cushion government workers”, he gave few details.
Despite the price hike, diplomats and tourists would be able to access cheaper fuel at certain pumping stations.
“The intention is to create a constant supply of fuel for diplomats and tourists to manage the country’s image,” said Mugano.
“Those designated fuel stations will be able to restock easily from the sales they make in US dollars.”
– Correspondent
LIVE – Mnangagwa Reduces Self To “A Fuel President”
VIDEOS LOADING BELOW…
Latest: Guvamombe Suspended Awaiting Disciplinary Hearing
Correspondent|CHIEF Magistrate Mr Mishrod Guvamombe has been suspended from work pending an investigation into misconduct allegations.
He is being accused of offering work-related attachments to former ministers Saviour Kasukuwere and Supa Mandiwanzira at the Harare Magistrates Court.
Kasukuwere and Mandiwanzira are law students at the University of Zimbabwe.
Both have pending cases at the magistrates courts.
The suspension of Guvamombe comes as former Local Government Minister Saviour Kasukuwere was on Thursday allowed to travel to South Africa for medical treatment after a court handed him back his passport.
Kasukuwere is facing corruption charges over land given to former First Lady Grace Mugabe’s sister, Shuvai Gumbochuma.
“The accused intends to travel on medical grounds and is seeking temporary release of his passport until January 16,” his lawyer Thembinkosi Magwaliba, told Harare magistrate Hosea Mujaya.
Kasukuwere, who lost his mother on New Year’s Eve, indicated he had intended to make the application for his passport’s release on January 3.
Prosecutor Zivanai Macharaga did not oppose Kasukuwere’s application.
“After receiving the documents from the accused’s doctor, I asked the investigating officer to verify the authenticity and he has established that the supporting letters were authored by his personal doctor,” Macharaga said.
“The issue of health is of paramount importance and it is best that he seeks the medical attention that he requires.”
More to follow…
Mujuru In Trouble For Failing To Pay For A Tractor She Bought When She Was Still The VP
FORMER Vice President Joice Mujuru has been taken to the High Court by a tractor dealer over a $387,000 deal signed in 2013 while she was still in government.
Mujuru was representing her firm Ruzrin Investments when she entered the botched deal.
A Harare couple Sabrina and Tony Sarpo, through their firm Peppy Motors (Pvt) Ltd, trading as Agritech, filed a $387 000 litigation against Mujuru and her firm, together with Steward Bank (Ltd) as co-respondents in the matter.
However, the couple have since decided not to pursue the matter against Steward, leaving only Mujuru to face the lawsuit.
Since the court summons had not been amended, the couple made a new court application which was determined by High Court judge Justice Priscilla Munangati-Manongwa on December 27 last year in her chambers.
“Whereupon after reading documents filed of record, it is ordered that; leave to amend applicant’s (Peppy Motors and Sarpo) summons and declaration filed in this court on March 29, 2018 under HC2954/18, be and is hereby granted,” the judge said.
“Applicant’s summons and declaration filed in this court on March 29, 2018 under HC2954/18, be and is hereby amended as per the amendments filed in this court on May 17, 2018 and July 24, 2018,” she added, giving Peppy Motors and the Sarpos a 10-day ultimatum to file amended summons.
In the application, Peppy Motors and the Sarpos had urged the court to grant their application on the basis that they no longer intended to pursue the matter against the financial institution following the finding of common ground between the parties.
According to the court papers, Agritech entered into a loan agreement with Steward Bank in 2012, in which it requested a $350 000 loan for the purchase of several tractors.
The maturity date for the loan facility was July 31, 2013 while the Sarpos bound themselves as sureties to the facility.
Pursuant to the agreement, Mujuru and Ruzirun Investments agreed to replace Agritech as debtors for the loan facility, but only made an initial payment of $10 000.
After making the initial payment, Mujuru allegedly reneged on her contractual obligation by failing to make any further payments, prompting the couple to approach the courts for recourse.
The matter is pending.
From ED Pfee To ED Nzvee, According To Chatunga
Own Correspondent|Former President Robert Mugabe’s son Chatunga Bellarmine has accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of throwing a bomb on the nation and deserting it.
Speaking in reference to Mnangagwa who on Saturday announced a huge fuel price increase before immediately leaving the country in the midst of the confusion of the fuel price increase.
In a Tweet on his Twitter page on Sunday, Chatunga lampooned the ZANU PF ED Pfee slogan changing it to ED Nzvee, referring to his leaving the country in a huge economic turmoil.
https://twitter.com/bellagushungo/status/1084327956477030400?s=19
Mujuru Invited To Join The MDC Alliance Under Chamisa
Correspondent|FORMER Masvingo Provincial Minister Kudakwashe Bhasikiti has called on the National People’s Party (NPP) president Joice Mujuru to dissolve her party and join the Nelson Chamisa-led MDC.
Bhasikiti is a former member of the ruling ZANU-PF as well as the Zimbabwe People First (ZPF), which was led by Mujuru, before she left to form the splinter NPP.
Mujuru and Bhasikiti, a former Masvingo Provincial Affairs minister, are both former members of the ruling Zanu PF party.
The former vice president, along with a coterie of her backers, including Bhasikiti, Ray Kaukonde, Dzikamai Mavhaire, Didymus Mutasa and Rugare Gumbo, among others, were shown the door by former president Robert Mugabe in 2014.
Mujuru and her cabal were expelled on allegations of seeking to topple Mugabe from power.
Her dismissal saw 15 ministers being dropped from Mugabe’s Cabinet, in a serious carnage that threatened to break the party.
Bhasikiti and Mavhaire are now members of the MDC, while Mutasa has since been readmitted into Zanu PF.
Mujuru, who has gone into hibernation since the July 30, 2018 harmonised elections, has been deserted by a number of her supporters, who have either joined the MDC or Zanu PF.
In a Twitter post, Bhasikiti said Mujuru must join the MDC in order to fulfill her dream for change in the country.
“I still believe…Mujuru should honour not only those she caused to be sacked from ZPF but also the masses which supported her to see change in Zimbabwe, by joining hands with the MDC as the change agent…,” Bhasikiti said.
Mujuru made waves after forming the ZPF, some months after leaving Zanu PF.
Observers believed she had a chance to create a formidable force in the country’s political space.
However, a few months after its formation, ZPF split because of irreconcilable differences between its founders.
Mutasa and Gumbo were among those who clung to the party’s name and offices while Mujuru moved on to form the NPP. Mutasa was to later dump the ZPF after being readmitted into the ruling party late last year.
Before their sacking in 2014, Mutasa was the party’s secretary for administration while Gumbo was its spokesperson. Both were members of the party’s politburo.
Chatunga Mugabe Says: I’m Not A Fool, I Don’t Use The Sh*T Bond Notes
Correspondent|CHATUNGA Bellarmine, last born of former Zimbabwean strongman Robert Mugabe, has vented his anger against Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube and Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor John Panonetsa Mangudya saying they are cheating Zimbabweans through the bond notes and the RTGS system.
Chatunga says that he does not keep and use the two pseudo currencies introduced by his own father Mugabe in 2016.
He labelled them as sh*t saying he does not want to get cheated by the two men, Ncube and Mangudya, who are running Zimbabwe’s fiscal and monetary policy directions.
Writing on social media site Twitter, Chatunga said; “I don’t keep those sh*t bond notes I have none so-called RTGs accounts I’m not a fool to be cheated by Mthuli and Panonetsa.”
https://twitter.com/bellagushungo/status/1084006557619232772?s=19
A few days ago, Chatunga, who rarely ventures into politics but is famous for partying like tomorrow, fired another potshot at Minister Mthuli Ncube.
Chatunga recently accused the Minister of living an extravagant lifestyle by staying at the five-star Meikles Hotel since he was appointed into the government, even as he preached austerity to the nation.
https://twitter.com/bellagushungo/status/1082935249867288576?s=19
ZANU-PF vehemently denied that Mthuli Ncube is parked at a hotel.
Chatunga, 22, has been the more vocal of the Mugabes since the family was jettisoned from the pedestal of power by a military coup in November 2017.
Recently, Chatunga stood toe to toe with ZANU-PF Chairperson and Minister of Defence Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri.
This was after Muchinguri said, “Former President President Mugabe “worked with his enemies” the United States to impose sanctions on Zimbabwe.
“All along I suspect he was a sell-out, it’s coming out now. The sanctions by the United States , it was him who wanted the people to continue to suffer. He was working with his enemies,” Muchinguri-Kashiri said.
But Chatunga who does not like unnecessary criticism of his father thought Muchinguri was offside.
“I don’t comment on politics usually because that’s not my field but l find it very funny and very laughable some people saying our Father begged for sanctions to be imposed on Zimbabwe,” said Chatunga on his social blog.
“When it comes to our Father he loves his country and he has continued to say he will remain in the country because he is a patriot person and everyone knows it.
“A great Pan Africanist who’s history doesn’t need to be explained. So you can’t allege President Robert Mugabe asked for sanctions from the west thats hilarious,” he added.
ZCTU Calls For Nationwide Stay Away
Jane Mlambo| Zimbabwe’s biggest trade union, the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Union (ZCTU) has called for a stay away starting from tonight to protest against government’s decision to hike fuel prices by over 200 percent.
Posting on Twitter today, labelled the new fuel prices as insensitive and provocative as it adds more misery to the already hard pressed workers.
ZCTU said the action will on an incremental basis with other planned actions to be announced in due course.
After wide consultations, the ZCTU General Council resolved to call for a nation wide STAY AWAY with effect from midnight today following the insensitive and provocative increase of fuel price by the President of Zimbabwe.
— ZCTU – Zimbabwe (@ZctuZimbabwe) January 13, 2019
2) Workers have been facing serious hardships as a result of the general astronomical price increases since last year against stagnant salaries. The fuel increase added more misery to the suffering working class of Zimbabwe both in formal and informal sectors.
— ZCTU – Zimbabwe (@ZctuZimbabwe) January 13, 2019
The action will be embarked on an incremental basis & include other forms of actions that will be advised in due.There is nothing else pushing the workers besides the starvation & hardships afflicting every working class household. Think about your family & do the right thing.
— ZCTU – Zimbabwe (@ZctuZimbabwe) January 13, 2019
Former Deputy Minister Godfrey Gandawa Breaks Silence On Why He Fled Zimbabwe
By Own Correspondent| Zanu Pf stalwart and former Higher Education deputy minister Godfrey Gandawa revealed why he is on the run, claiming that the current administration wanted him dead in the run up to the July 30 harmonised polls.
Gandawa , whose whereabouts remain a mystery said he had received credible information from sources within the security to the effect that state security agents wanted to harm him.
A warrant of arrest was issued against Gandawa in November last year after he failed to appear before High Court judge Justice Tawanda Chitapi for trial in a case in which he is facing 14 counts of defrauding Zimdef of over $400 000.
In an interview from an undisclosed location, Gandawa said he had to sleep in the mountains after he was tipped off that his Magunje homestead would be raided a few days before the July 30 elections.
Gandawa, who contested the Magunje seat as an independent candidate, said he had no option but to flee after receiving information that there were people out to harm him.
‘‘I got a tip-off from one of the Military Intelligence Department (MID) operatives who was part of the team assigned to assassinate me. My source told me not to sleep at home that day since there were five men from state security who were going to kill me between 1am and 2am,” he said.
He said he then decided to hide in the nearby mountain where he could see whatever happened at his homestead.
“I did this to ascertain if the raid was going to happen or if it was just a threat to disturb my campaign since I was doing well on the ground,” he said.
Gandawa’s last campaign message was more visible on social media where he called on the electorate to dump Zanu PF.
The former Zanu PF Magunje MP whose boss at the Higher and Tertiary Education ministry, Jonathan Moyo, is also on the run following the November 2017 coup, said while on the mountain, he indeed saw state security agents raid his rural home and watched them as they abducted his mother, younger brother and two other relatives.
He said this forced him to run away during that night after his fears were confirmed.
Gandawa added that his family members were not safe even now as they were frequently harassed by suspected state security agents.
‘‘My property is being vandalised by Zanu PF militants. I can’t say I am safe since I have been in hiding for over six months now,” he said.
Gandawa said there was no change in Zimbabwe as everything in the country was being militarised.
“One cannot exercise their democratic right freely and that is shameful after 39 years of self-rule. There is no respect for human and property rights because currently Zanu PF supporters are vandalising my properties disregarding the rule of law,” he said.
“Even if you make a police report, no action is taken because the whole system is captured. Zimbabwe is still to mature politically because at the moment the country does not have institutions but a conflated system, where if you are not Zanu PF, you are an enemy.”
Gandawa was, however, hopeful that he would one day get the chance to develop Hurungwe.-TheStandard
Mutodi Hints At Another Army Deployment Should Citizens Protest Against Fuel Price Hikes
Jane Mlambo| Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi could have given a hint that his party has not reformed and is prepared to kill again should their hold on power gets threatened after warning citizens not to protest yesterday’s fuel price hike as they will “lose limp”.
Posting on Twitter this afternoon, Mutodi who is no stranger to controversy urged people to adjust and do away with luxuries of fuel guzzlers and unnecessary trips.
Mutodi also urged citizens to use bicycles instead of cars and public transport which is likely to hike fares in line with new fuel prices.
Faced with high fuel costs, clever people know what to do & here are some tips: Avoid fuel guzzler, reduce fleet, cancel unnecessary trips & use bicycles where possible to save BIG. Do not protest in the street you can lose a limp in skirmishes.
— Dr Energy Mutodi (@energymutodi) January 13, 2019
Prior to the July 30 polls, Zanu PF leaders including Josiah Hungwe and Terrence Mukupe threatened that President Mnangagwa was going to shoot to stay in power and soon after the polls which were disputed by the opposition, soldiers were deployed on unarmed civilians killing six people.
It appears Mutodi could have hinted at the possibility of a repeat of the dreaded 1 August event that forced Mnangagwa to later constitute a Commission of Inquiry headed by former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe.
Zimbabwe National Shutdown- What Is The Way Forward?
Govt Wage Bill Set To Balloon To $12 Billion
ZIMBABWE’S public sector wage bill could balloon to $12,2 billion from the budgeted $3,9 million if government gives in to demands by civil service unions calling for a $1 700 minimum wage.
The umbrella body which represents public sector workers, Civil Service Apex Council (CSAC), says the increase is necessary to meet the rising cost of living that has shot up about 22% since August 2018.
According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), a family of six would need $729,88 as at December 2018 compared to $597,81 in August that same year.
“Yes, government is broke, but we are workers of government. At the end of the day when we have provided a service, we also want to be able to earn something that will make us look after our families, at least to live a reasonable life,” CSAC chairperson Cecilia Alexander told Standardbusiness.
“Whether they are able to pay or not, we are now saying we are in a worse off situation and as workers it is our right to demand the value of what we have been earning. It is not correct for any government whatsoever to remove a benefit or to give somebody less without even engaging them.”
On average the majority of civil servants earn $500 a month.
“In fact, the $1 733 is not a figure that we came up with to get an increment, it is just a matter of asking government to restore the value of what we were earning around September (2018). At the end of the day, all we want as civil servants is to have the value of what we earned restored, so it is up to government to either look for the US dollars to pay us in hard currency or the other way round,” Alexander said.
On Thursday, workers rejected government’s offer to increase wages by 10%.
This was after the CSAC first notified government of its demands in a notice of a collective job action dated January 8, 2019 after it reported a collapse in negotiations for better remunerations to meet the cost of living.
“Yes, the planned strike has a 14-day notice and we are now in the window period. We strongly believe that it would be in the interest of government to resolve some of the issues or to give us an acceptable offer within the window period,” Alexander said.
Government has since brought forward the pay dates for civil servants to January 14 in a bid to appease the workers, but Alexander said the move would not make any difference.
“I don’t think paying us earlier would make any difference because our issue here is incapacitation. As long as we have not received any increment or cushioning, the problem will still remain the same.”
Economist Ashok Chakravarti said the workers’ request for better working conditions was reasonable.
“I am confident there are ways of raising additional revenues without increasing taxation, but it has to be part of a comprehensive reform package. Such measures have to be given consideration. I think it is not an unreasonable demand (civil servants asking for better wages). I mean all of us want to have a wage or salary that covers our basic living, but the reality is that look we have to accept the fact that there has been 20 years of mismanagement…” Chakravarti said.
“…that is all coming home to roost now. If you think that this is going to be solved in a day, then this is where I differ with most people and, of course, people are upset with the condition of the economy. But, I think for the first time in a very long time some effort is being made to move in the right direction and I think it will take time for these measures to play out.”
He added that the measures would come to fruition if they were strictly adhered to and that there were mechanisms that could be raised to meet the civil servants, demands.
-The Standard
Calls To Disband Zanu PF Power Base
For many years, Zanu PF has benefited immensely from land barons who parcel out land in areas such as Hopley, Ushewokunze, Caledonia among others but due to massive corruption and duping of innocent homeseekers, the idea is fast becoming unpopular and government is mulling doing away with the programme.
These unscrupulous property dealers have parcelled out State, council and privately-owned land to unsuspecting buyers.
When push comes to shove, it is the home-owners who are left to suffer the consequences when courts finally make determinations on who the rightful owners of the land are.
Bulldozers quickly move into destroy the homes deemed to have been built on illegal land while the filthy-rich land barons walk away scotch-free.
Because of the rising cost of living and the decaying economy, Zimbabweans are now desperate to be home-owners and escape the burden of paying rentals.
Land barons and cooperative executives are preying on this desperation to swindle unsuspecting home-seekers.
Our courts are heavily-burdened with cases involving land scams but justice is a slow process and coupled with the corruption in our systems, the victims end up losing.
Former president Robert Mugabe set up commissions of inquiry into the illegal sale of State land but the major culprits and beneficiaries of this corrupt deed never saw the entry to a jail cell.
Mugabe’s successor Emmerson Mnangagwa has also established his own commission of inquiry into the same matter but judging by previous experience, it’s only the small fish which will be fried.
This week, Zacc commissioner in charge of investigations, Goodson Nguni, revealed that the anti-graft body would be going after land barons.
“We are presently investigating cooperatives, including Magariro Housing where the chairperson has now turned into a contractor and is not observing rules governing the operations of cooperatives.
“We are ready to make sure those who are on the wrong side of the law face justice.
“We are aware that city fathers, particularly in Harare and other major cities, might be behind the cooperatives,” said Nguni.
For many years, Zimbabweans have heard this mantra from the authorities but nothing really tangible has been done to stop the illegal sale of State, council and private land.
It’s high time government and the relevant authorities come up with a strategy that effectively deals with this phenomenon of land barons and unscrupulous cooperatives.
It can be done as long as there is political will.
People are losing their hard-earned cash and life savings while the government, which is supposed to protect them, is seemingly involved with these fraudsters.
-Daily News
“Price Controls Is Catastrophic And Will Lead To Shortages”: Shingi Munyeza Warns Gvnt
By Own Correspondent| Entrepreneur and religious leader, Shingi Munyeza, has warned government against controlling prices adding that the recent fuel price increases and the promise to control prices by the Zimbabwe government is a “catastrophic” move that will result in shortages.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the fuel price increases yesterday following a week of acute fuel shortages throughout the country.
The prices have been increased by about 147%. The new price of Petrol is $3.11 per litre (up from about $1.34) and diesel now costs $3.11 a litre.
Munyeza said on his Twitter today:
NEW PETROL PRICES
BOND not 1:1 to USD
1. I support selling fuel in forex in some stations
2.Increasing bond pump price& forcing price controls is catastrophic,shortages will loom
3.Peacemeal review of incomes &prices is disastrous#SocialContract#NationalDialogueZW@InfoMinZW— Shingi Munyeza (@ShingiMunyeza) January 13, 2019
Live Pictures Of Protests Over Fuel Price Hikes, What Is Going On?
By Own Correspondent| Following the announcement by President Emmerson Mnangagwa that effective midnight Saturday, fuel prices had increased by over 100 percent, unconfirmed reports allege that Kuwadzana residents are protesting the increases and barricading roads in the suburb and burning tyres.
The social media, today was awash with pictures of tyres burning with indications that this is in Kuwadzana, Harare while others allege that this is happening in Zvishavane, Midlands.
However, one Munyaradzi Chiondegwa on his facebook page dismissed that there were protests in Zvishavane posting pictures of “current settings”.
We publish below the pictures by Chiondegwa:
“We Have Chosen To Act, And We Have Acted Decisively On Fuel”: Says Mnangagwa
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has revealed that his action to increase fuel prices is part of government actions in reacting to the current fuel shortages arguing that government acted and acted decisively.
In a statement on his Facebook page following yesterday’s announcement which saw the price of fuel being increased by over 100 percent, Mnangagwa said:
“Following the current shortfall in the fuel market, we have chosen to act, and act decisively. The shortage, attributable to increased fuel usage in the growing economy, and compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities, is unsustainable and Government has today decided on the following measures:
- A fuel pump price set at $3.11 per litre for diesel, and $3.33 per litre for petrol.
- We will grant a rebate to all registered business entities in Manufacturing, Mining, Commerce, Agriculture and Transport sectors, to be decided at a later date.
- Enhance the export incentive scheme by an additional 2.5%
- Implement immediate measures to ensure constant fuel supply into the country for sustainable fuel availability
- Put in place a package of measures to cushion Government workers, until a full review of Cost-of-living Adjustment package due in April is effected (in the context of the current budget)
- Begin a comprehensive audit of all fuel draw-downs to establish all misuse of fuel including politically motivated and criminal conduct.
As the new Zimbabwe continues to progress, both economically and diplomatically, we must stay on track and keep on moving forward. Tomorrow, I will embark on a five-nation visit to continue this journey. My visit will focus on bilateral economic engagement, especially in the areas of mining, technology, agriculture, energy and human capital development. In Switzerland, I shall be attending the Davos World Economic Forum, where I will be meeting with world leaders and business executives.
I shall be consolidating and reaffirming our crucial message that “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” with “Dialogue” paramount in the context of our policy of engaging and re-engaging the world.
For Zimbabwe to recover, we cannot go it alone. The new Zimbabwe is moving forward, but unlike in the past, now we must move forward with friends and partners from all around the world by our side
Redan Coupon Holders In Rebase Shocker
“Mnangagwa’s Right Pricing Will Deal A Blow To Fuel Price Distortions”: Finance Minister Prof Mthuli Ncube
By Own Correspondent| Finance minister Professor Mthuli Ncube revealed that government released $20 million to buy 44 million litres of fuel more than a week ago to replenish depleted stocks.
Ncube said this while addressing a town hall meeting organised by Global Shapers Community Harare in the capital.
Said Ncube:
“Basically, on Friday last week, we authorised the drawdown of $20 million to deal with the crisis and those funds were made available yesterday (Thursday) because it takes a few days (to reflect) . . . so that should enable us to receive about 44 million litres on the back of that release. That is only a blood transfusion to deal with the fuel crisis.
But a lot is going on in the fuel sector. We are also quite aware of the arbitrage opportunities that have been created by the price of fuel relative to its price outside Zimbabwe and also relative to the parallel market.
We are quite aware that there is round-tripping either across borders or between parallel market and the fuel market. And there is a whole parallel market for fuel in the first place, where fuel is being sold, is it for $4 or $5 per litre? Those are the figures that I keep hearing. So you have got these distortions in the market that are making the situation worse. . .
Of course, we have a forex shortage – that is a fact – but perhaps just through currency reforms and getting the right pricing for fuel, that will deal a blow to pricing distortions and arbitrage opportunity.”
“Getting the right pricing for fuel” referred to by Ncube came in the form of the shock announcement made by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday night that the prices of fuel had been reviewed upwardly.-StateMedia
Breaking News: Football Legend Phil Masinga Has died, Aged 49.
By Paul Nyathi|Legendary South African footballer Philmon Malinga has died.
Malinga was confirmed dead at a South African hospital on Sunday morning.
The South African international striker spent two years at Leeds United in England.
Masinga was a huge name in South African football after becoming one of the first players to establish himself in the top leagues in Europe.
Aside from playing for Leeds, he also spent four years in Serie A with Salernitana and Bari.
The forward arrived at Elland Road in 1994, in a deal which also saw club legend Lucas Radebe move to Yorkshire.
Though he failed to make the same long-lasting impact in England, he did make Premier League 31 appearances for the club scoring five goals.
He also managed to net a hat-trick in an FA Cup clash with Walsall in 1995.
Masinga was a key part of the Bafana Bafana side which won the African Cup of Nations in 1996, and which finished runners-up two years later.
And he earned his place in South African history by scoring the decisive goal against DR Congo which secured qualification for the World Cup in France in 1998.
In total he made 58 international appearances for his country, scoring 18 goals.
Buddha Mathathe‚ president of the South African Masters and Legend Football Association, said: “He is gone. Our legend is gone. It is not right.
“It is such tragic loss for the family and for the entire country.
“He is no ordinary legend‚ he was an international legend.”
More follows
Pictures Of Harare Roads Closed Circulate On Sunday Morning | WHAT’S GOING ON?
Gvnt Mulls Decentralising Passport Issuance
By Own Correspondent| The government is seriously considering the decentralisation of the issuance of passports.
This was revealed by Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Ambassador Cain Mathema.
In an interview with the state media, Matema said:
“We are going to decentralise issuance of passport, birth certificate and national identity documents to the lowest district level.
Issuance of passports will be increased because it is every Zimbabwean’s constitutional right to obtain the travel document. The whole administration of systems in the Home Affairs ministry will be computerised.”
Registrar-General Mr Clemence Masango also told The Sunday Mail that by the end of 2019, his department expects to have passport issuance offices operational at Chitungwiza and Murehwa district offices.
Said Masango:
“But we expect to be able to open the Chitungwiza office soon. We have approached the local authority so they can assist with accommodation (for staff).
People will pay the fee online, apply online and then download the form to present it physically to passport offices for capturing of biometrics. This also minimises the chances of corruption.
We get reports of touts who assist people to jump the queue or ask for payment to facilitate quick processing of documents. If the application is done online, we reduce such incidences.”-StateMedia
Latest On Makomborero Haruzivishe Arrest
By Own Correspondent| Makomborero Haruzivishe is still in police custody and is set to appear in court tomorrow, ZimEye can exclusively reveal.
Haruzivishe, a human rights activist and one of the people who testified before the Mothlanthe led August 1 Commission of Inquiry into the country’s post election violence which saw soldiers murdering 6 civilians was arrested at Robert Mugabe International Airport on Saturday.
While the charges to his arrest were not yet clear by end of day yesterday, unconfirmed reports alleged that he was arrested for taking pictures in a protected area.
Said a source privy to developments regarding Haruzivishe’s arrest in an interview with ZimEye:
“Yes he is still under under police custody and he will be going to court tomorrow.”
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights yesterday reportedly intervened and are representing the vocal youth activist.
Citizens have however taken to social media initiating a campaign dubbed #FreeMako.
More details to follow. Refresh this page for updates.
“Mthuli Ncube Is On Course In Reviving Economy”: Economist Ashkot Chakravarti
By Own Correspondent| Economist and University of Zimbabwe lecturer, Ashkot Chakravarti has applauded efforts being made by Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube to revive the country’s economy.
The renowned economist however said Zimbabweans should appreciate that Ncube is taking over an economy that has been mismanaged for over 20 years.
He said that civil servants are justified in demanding a salary adjustment but they have to understand that the economy had been mismanaged for two decades.
The renowned economist applauded the efforts being made by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube to revive the economy when he said that this is the first time in a long time that something is being done.
He said:
“I am confident there are ways of raising additional revenues without increasing taxation, but it has to be part of a comprehensive reform package. Such measures have to be given consideration.
I think it is not an unreasonable demand (civil servants asking for better wages). I mean all of us want to have a wage or salary that covers our basic living, but the reality is that look we have to accept the fact that there have been 20 years of mismanagement.
…that is all coming home to roost now. If you think that this is going to be solved in a day, then this is where I differ with most people and, of course, people are upset with the condition of the economy. But, I think for the first time in a very long time some effort is being made to move in the right direction and I think it will take time for these measures to play out.”-TheStandard
BREAKING: Pastor Tells Mnangagwa Darkness Is Coming Your Way
VIDEOS LOADING BELOW…
VIDEO: Pastor Tells Mnangagwa This Time You’re Shut In, You Rigged The Election But You Can’t Rig The Economy
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MDC-T Attacks Mnangagwa On 143% Fuel Price Hike
Media Statement By The MDC-T|CONSIDERING the challenges that our nation is facing, the press conference by the President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa last night, showed the world how our current government is detached from reality on the ground.
To put it more politely and accurately, the economic quagmire we are in as a nation demands that all key pillars of the state are expected to be on high alert responding positively to the issues affecting the people who happen to be the electorate.
The Government of Zimbabwe by resorting to astronomic fuel price hikes instead of addressing the currency distortions they created by the surrogate Bond’s supposed parity with the USDollar, has literally declared war against the working class and the poor who constitute the majority citizens of Zimbabwe.
The Mnangagwa regime has unashamedly exposed it’s double standards towards the poor; it would rather cushion and enrich the fuel cartel at the expense of the masses.
We expect the government to play its primary role of protecting the people of Zimbabwe from capitalists rather than enriching the Queen Bees of this land.
The MDC-T implores the government to do the right thing and bite the bullet for the benefit of the country and sustainable human development.
As MDC-T, we have long called for a responsible policy response to the ever deteriorating state of socio-economic conditions and inevitably political instability in Zimbabwe. Alas, the elected leadership slaps the poor on their faces! Do they expect the long suffering Zimbabweans to give them another cheek?
This past week, the government failed to give civil servants a living wage but it has the audacity to say “by midnight fuel pump prices go up by more than 100 percent” yet it can’t pay it’s workers even 20 percent more.
No one in his/her right senses, more so, Zimbabweans with 2008 hyperinflation experience, will believe the lie that fuel price hikes won’t affect other prices as ripple effect. Actually it’s insulting to ordinary people’s basic intelligence.
In any event, basic commodities have long been beyond the reach of many households, both rural and urban. Only the few rich and those politically connected will access basic commodities and services.
In essence, the new unreasonable fuel prices do not relieve tax payers from subsidizing the corrupt fuel mandarins who shall continue siphoning USDollar from the central bank and making a killing from the parallel fuel and currency market.
That’s where Zimbabwe’s second tragedy is. Of course, the first being having rulers who blatantly falsify common sense reality like Bond and USDollar parity.
By repeatedly refusing to heed the cry of the majority poor and downtrodden Zimbabweans, the government has catalyzed the economic crisis to a rupture.
God forbid, it be a bloodless rupture as the starving masses will heed the calls for public protests being called from many quarters. Increase in the price of fuel will have a ripple effect across all facets of the economy, people will have to fork out more money for transport as it is inevitable that kombi and bus fares will rise at least threefold.
Wages and salaries for the few people who are still lucky enough to be in formal employment are still very low compared to the skyrocketing prices of basic goods and services that is, there’s a complete and total disconnect between people’s earnings and their expenditure. It is absurd that after giving civil servants a 10% salary increment the same government effects a nearly 300% increase on fuel price.
The hike in the price of fuel will trigger a highly inflationary impact on the prices of basic foodstuffs such as bread, mealie-meal and cooking oil since producers and traders will be paying more for their fuel requirements.
There is an urgent need to drastically increase the salaries of civil servants and other workers across the board since their present earnings will simply be swamped by the high cost of living.
The big question is will the Government and other employers in the private sector afford to increase wages and salaries at least three fold in the immediate term? Productive capacity in manufacturing and industry remains deeply constrained mainly due to limited access to foreign currency in order to import essential raw materials and other ingredients eg Olivine Industries have already put up a notice that they are closing down.
The national economy is in a total mess and now is the time for all concerned Zimbabwean patriots to put our heads together and chart a united way forward as we seek to navigate the treacherous socio-economic terrain. It cannot continue to be business as usual going forward.
In its bid to identify with the few rich, the government has irreversibly entangled itself in a web and cycle of ill conceived policy positions that are not only untenable but disastrous. It definitely has exposed it’s ideological disdain for the poor majority by doing exactly the opposite of the people’s expectations and hence betraying their trust and hopes.
As the MDC-T, we reiterate the call for an all encompassing stakeholders dialogue to save our country from the inevitable and imminent slide into political abyss and economic breakdown. The majority cannot take it any longer and burying heads in sand cannot solve the crisis.
In conclusion, we are expecting the government of Zimbabwe to be sincere and open Zimbabwe for business to Zimbabweans first. The government must address the currency distortion as soon as possible without fail, ensure that they pay workers in real money USD or effect salary increments which will enable workers to sustain their livelihoods.
There is need to ring fence pensions, medical aid, insurance and bank balances in USD. It is imperative for government to consider introducing a real currency not this surrogate currency and remove the bond note from circulation. If that happens and there are strict controls on forex trading we will get out of the current challenges we are facing in no time at all.
Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
MDC-T National Secretary for Information and Publicity
Pastors Who Support Mnangagwa’s Destructive Economics | GOD LOVERS or USELESS GOLD LOVERS?
Pastors who support Mnangagwa's destructive economics: Admire Kasi, Wutaunashe, MEN OF GOD, or USELESS MEN OF GOLD?
— ZimEye (@ZimEye) January 13, 2019
Shutdown WhatsApp Groups Emerge In Hordes
Jane Mlambo| Following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s announcement of fuel price increase last night, hard pressed Zimbabweans appear to be warming up to the idea of a shutdown to force Zanu PF Out of power and WhatsApp groups have surfaced where people are organising on the type of action to take.
The groups are organized according to major cities of Harare, Bulawayo, Bulawayo and Gweru among others.
Most of the groups are full and discussions in almost all of them is on the next course of action in light of fuel price increases which is likely to trigger further hikes in other items including bread and public transport
Pastors Who Support Mnangagwa’s Destructive Economics: Admire Kasi, Wutaunashe, MEN OF GOD, or USELESS MEN OF GOLD?
Pastors who support Mnangagwa's destructive economics: Admire Kasi, Wutaunashe, MEN OF GOD, or USELESS MEN OF GOLD?
— ZimEye (@ZimEye) January 13, 2019
Mnangagwa On LIVE Video Increasing Fuel Prices, Personally, And Without Shame
STATEMENT BY ZANU PF LEADER EMMERSON DAMBUDZO MNANGAGWA, ON THE EVE OF A MAJOR FIVE-NATION FOREIGN OFFICIAL VISIT, 12TH JANUARY, 2019
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media,
I have decided, through you, to share with the Nation details on my forthcoming five-nation visit to Russia, Belarus, Kazakstan, Azerbaijan and Switzerland. My visit to the first four States will enhance bilateral relations in line with our policy of engagement.
As you may be aware, these four countries have had good relations with us before and after Independence, with Russia standing with us in the United Nations Security Council at our moment of greatest need.
My visit this time around will focus predominantly on bilateral economic engagement especially in areas of mining, technology, agriculture, energy and human capita development, among others. As I visit, Zimbabwe already has scores of students who are receiving tertiary training in critical skills areas in these countries.
In Switzerland, I shall be attending the Davos World Economic Forum. Alongside other world leaders and business executives, I shall be consolidating and reaffirming our message that “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” and “Dialogue” in the context of our policy of engaging and re-engaging the world.
Given that the World Economic Forum is a premier Forum for the interaction of political and business leaders, Zimbabwe will take full advantage of this opportunity to market itself and to seek gainful investment partnerships.
For its recovery, Zimbabwe cannot go it alone. To this end, my delegation will include our own business leaders who will be interacting with their counterparts and potential investors.
As I leave the country, I am aware of the economic strides we have made, and also of the challenges that lie ahead. In particular, our agricultural performance is likely to be impacted negatively by the El Nino phenomenon.
It is in this regard that Government, alongside other SADC States who are in a similar situation, has initiated an appeal for appropriate assistance from the international community.
Let me now turn to the fuel situation obtaining in the country.
Following the persistent shortfall in the fuel market attributable to increased fuel usage in the economy, and compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities, Government has today decided on the following corrective measures:
1. With effect from midnight tonight, a fuel pump price of $3,11 per litre for diesel, and $3,31 per litre for petrol, will come into effect. These prices are predicated on the ruling official exchange rate of 1:1 between the Bond Note and the United States Dollar, and also on the need to keep fuel retailers viable.
Guests of Government by way of foreign missions and other registered foreign bodies, and tourists will fuel and refuel at designated points at the price cf US$1,24 per litre for diesel, and US$2,32 per litre for petrol, upon production of proper identification documents.
2. Cognisant of the need to prevent generalized price increases for goods and services in the country, with the attendant hardships which that will entail especially to the commuting workforce, Government has decided to grant a rebate to all registered business entities in Manufacturing, Mining, Commerce, Agriculture and Transport sectors.
Details on the exact form the rebate system will take will be announced in due course. Given these cost mitigations and incentives, Government does not expect, and will not allow, businesses to engage in a new round of price increases.
3. Equally, Government will enhance the export incentive scheme by an additional 2.5%.
4. Government has put in place measures to ensure constant fuel supply into the country for sustainable fuel availability.
5. Government is putting in place a package of measures to cushion its workers, until a full review of Cost—of-Living Adjustment package due in April 2019 is effected, in the context of the current budget.
6. Government is aware of attempts by certain elements bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country.
Such politically motivated activities will not be tolerated. To curb continued misuse of fuel in the country, Government, through relevant Departments which include its security structures, have started on a comprehensive audit of all fuel draw-downs with a view to establishing points of leakages. Where criminal conduct is apparent, the law will take its course.
I thank you.
Civil Servants Demand Of $1700 Minimum Wage, A Headache For Govt
ZIMBABWE’S public sector wage bill could balloon to $12,2 billion from the budgeted $3,9 million if government gives in to demands by civil service unions calling for a $1 700 minimum wage.
The umbrella body which represents public sector workers, Civil Service Apex Council (CSAC), says the increase is necessary to meet the rising cost of living that has shot up about 22% since August 2018.
According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), a family of six would need $729,88 as at December 2018 compared to $597,81 in August that same year.
“Yes, government is broke, but we are workers of government. At the end of the day when we have provided a service, we also want to be able to earn something that will make us look after our families, at least to live a reasonable life,” CSAC chairperson Cecilia Alexander told Standardbusiness.
“Whether they are able to pay or not, we are now saying we are in a worse off situation and as workers it is our right to demand the value of what we have been earning. It is not correct for any government whatsoever to remove a benefit or to give somebody less without even engaging them.”
On average the majority of civil servants earn $500 a month.
“In fact, the $1 733 is not a figure that we came up with to get an increment, it is just a matter of asking government to restore the value of what we were earning around September (2018). At the end of the day, all we want as civil servants is to have the value of what we earned restored, so it is up to government to either look for the US dollars to pay us in hard currency or the other way round,” Alexander said.
On Thursday, workers rejected government’s offer to increase wages by 10%.
A
This was after the CSAC first notified government of its demands in a notice of a collective job action dated January 8, 2019 after it reported a collapse in negotiations for better remunerations to meet the cost of living.
“Yes, the planned strike has a 14-day notice and we are now in the window period. We strongly believe that it would be in the interest of government to resolve some of the issues or to give us an acceptable offer within the window period,” Alexander said.
Government has since brought forward the pay dates for civil servants to January 14 in a bid to appease the workers, but Alexander said the move would not make any difference.
“I don’t think paying us earlier would make any difference because our issue here is incapacitation. As long as we have not received any increment or cushioning, the problem will still remain the same.”
Economist Ashok Chakravarti said the workers’ request for better working conditions was reasonable.
“I am confident there are ways of raising additional revenues without increasing taxation, but it has to be part of a comprehensive reform package. Such measures have to be given consideration. I think it is not an unreasonable demand (civil servants asking for better wages). I mean all of us want to have a wage or salary that covers our basic living, but the reality is that look we have to accept the fact that there has been 20 years of mismanagement…” Chakravarti said.
“…that is all coming home to roost now. If you think that this is going to be solved in a day, then this is where I differ with most people and, of course, people are upset with the condition of the economy. But, I think for the first time in a very long time some effort is being made to move in the right direction and I think it will take time for these measures to play out.”
He added that the measures would come to fruition if they were strictly adhered to and that there were mechanisms that could be raised to meet the civil servants, demands.
Standard
Orlando Pirates Pulls Massive Crowd To BF
THEY came, they saw but they did not conquer.
That would be the tale of South Africa’s Orlando Pirates visit to play FC Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday as they lit up Bulawayo, drawing a bumper crowd and getting a bigger chunk of the support from the fans that thronged the city’s ceremonial home of football.
The moment it was announced FC Platinum would be playing their Caf Champions’ League group stage first match against the Sea Robbers at Emagumeni, an air of excitement, anticipation and anxiety filled the City of Kings. Bulawayo being a hotbed of Orlando Pirates fans saw several people talk up the need to be “patriotic” and support FC Platinum for the “national cause”. The debate raged on social media with supporters standing their ground on which team they are going to back.
In the week leading to the game yesterday, black, white and red shirt and track suits seemed to have been thrown around like confetti as Pirates fans took out their regalia showing love for their team. And cometh match day, the fans did not disappoint as they thronged BF, making it the largest crowd in living memory akin to numbers that Highlanders used to attract at the turn of the millennium when they went on a four year streak of winning the league championship.
Fans began arriving at the stadium as early as 11am as they were eager to watch their favourite team and it was not long before Barbourfields proved too small a venue for the match. Long winding queues started forming at around midday and one hour 20 minutes before kick off the stadium was full, but more people were still making their way into the venue.
When the match started people were still streaming into the stadium and a sea of black and white was formed at the iconic Soweto stand and eMpankweni that was packed with Pirates supporters, most wearing Highlanders’ famous black and white stripe as they took advantage of the similarity of the two clubs’ colours.
The Mpilo End was turned blue and green as FC Platinum fans teamed up with a host of Dynamos fans to back the home team. There was no room left to move in the stands as it was packed to the rafters with some fans being forced to watch the match standing next to the perimeter fence.
Zifa officials revealed the 23 000 tickets they printed for the match ran out with only a handful of VVIP tickets said to have been left. At half-time, most entrances had run out of tickets but there were still hundreds of people seeking entry to into the stadium.
Zifa vice-president, Gift Banda, former Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari, ex-Bosso striker, Zenzo Moyo and Warriors liaison officer Eddie Chivero and a host of journalists had a tough time getting into the stadium due to the huge crowds that swelled at half time.
The crowd even had Highlanders coach, Madinda Ndlovu green with envy as he marvelled at the huge turnout and he can only work twice as hard to see such numbers turning out for a Highlanders match. Pirates captain, Happy Jele expressed pleasure and surprise at the huge backing from Bulawayo. Bulawayo certainly had a weekend to remember as the match attracted football lovers from all over the country with some coming from as far as Harare, Beitbridge and Mutare to witness the game.
The match proved the hunger people have for quality football and most certainly their love for Orlando Pirates who should consider visiting Bulawayo another day to thank their fans.
State Media
“Who Ever Thought There Will Be Anyone Worse Than Mugabe?” Reactions To Mnagagwa Fuel Price Increase
Correspondent|PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa last night announced new prices for petrol and diesel, effective midnight.
He said: “With effect from midnight tonight, a fuel pump price of $3.11 per litre for diesel and $3.31 per litre for petrol will come into effect. These prices are predicated on the ruling official exchange rate of 1:1 between the bond note and the US dollar and also on the need to keep fuel retailers viable,” Mnangagwa said at State House in Harare.
Before the increase, at the government gazetted price, diesel cost $1.38 a litre, and petrol $1.43 a litre.
The announcement has brought mixed reactions from across the country.
“The correct price should be $4.55 per liter for both otherwise the queues will continue,” said Hopewell Chin’ono, an award winning journalist, documentary film maker.
Chin’ono, who bagged the 2008 CNN African journalist of the year award, added: “This (fuel price increase) should have been followed immediately by floating the Bond Note, otherwise this patch work will resolve nothing.
“The shortage in fuel in Zimbabwe right now was due to a low price which didn’t match the importation cost due to the pegged rate. So we were not able to restock.”
Former Minister of Commerce and Industry Welshman Ncube, who is the MDC-A Vice President, said: “Who would have thought it possible that any government in Zimbabwe could be worse than that of Robert Gabriel Mugabe.
“Surely by now it must be abundantly clearly even to the most intellectually ungifted that a condition sine qua non (condition precedent) of Zimbabwe’s progress is the removal from power of ZANUPF in all its manifestations either as a civilian formation or quasi military entity.”
Melusi Nkomo, an academic, said the new prices were still normal considering the bond note is in real terms not equivalent to the US dollar.
He urged “fear-mongers” to stop pretending they were unaware that ful was costing less than a litre of bottled water in Zimbabwe.
Nkomo said: “Bond$3.11=US$1.04. Bond$3.31=US$1.10. In US dollar terms it’s still normal pricing for fuel in Zimbabwe. Fear mongers should stop.”
Opposition MDC-A leader Nelson Chamisa: “Fellow Zimbabweans, we acknowledge and understand that we have a national crisis, which is descending into a humanitarian crisis.
“We believe this crisis requires all hands on the deck. We will lead and stand ready to play a key role in finding a lasting solution.”
Constitutional lawyer Alex T Magaisa said the increase in fuel prices without a corresponding increase in wages will erode earnings and trigger unrest.
“Fuel price increases without wage increases can only mean one thing: wages and savings have been totally eroded. Prices will rise. The first sign is workers will not be able to go to work. You solve one problem but open up another. It’s a calamity.”
Magaisa added that the problem was politics, not the economy. “Solve the politics! Problem is politics, not the economy. It’s a calamity. Solve the politics!”
“Let’s brace for tough times,” lawyer Fadzayi Mahere said. “Sadly, once the fuel price goes up officially, the cost of transport, labour and other basic goods will automatically go up as well.”
Fuel queues have worsened in Zimbabwe since the start of the new year. The demand for fuel intensified this week with the start of the new school term this week.
Mnangagwa said some were bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country.
“Such politically motivated activities will not be tolerated,” he said, indicating that the country’s military would be on the lookout to curb the misuse of the fuel.
An increase in the price of fuel is likely to spark a further hike in the prices of goods and services.
The President added that tourists, foreign missions, NGOs and other foreign bodies will be able to buy fuel at designated points at US$1.32 per liter of petrol and US$1.24/L per liter of diesel.
“Guests of Government by way of foreign missions and other registered foreign bodies, and tourists will fuel and refuel at designated points at the price cf US$1,24 per litre for diesel, and US$2,32 per litre for petrol, upon production of proper identification documents,” he said.
On salaries adjustment for civil servants, he said: “Government is putting in place a package of measures to cushion its workers, until a full review of Cost of-Living Adjustment package due in April 2019 is effected, in the context of the current budget.”
He ended by warning “certain elements bent on sponsoring unrest and instability”: “Government is aware of attempts by certain elements bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country.
“Such politically motivated activities will not be tolerated. To curb continued misuse of fuel in the country, Government, through relevant
“Departments which include its security structures, have started on a comprehensive audit of all fuel draw-downs with a view to establishing points of leakages. Where criminal conduct is apparent, the law will take its course.”
VIDEO: Chatunga Denies Being Stranded In Fuel Queue
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
Citizens’ Reactions To Mnangagwa’s Statement On Fuel Price Increases
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday evening announced that Government had decided to increase fuel prices effective midnight.
Mnangagwa announced that petrol will now cost $3.31 per litre while diesel will now cost $3.11 per litre.
We publish citizens’ reactions below:
#ThingsFallApart
To have the head of the pfee administration to announce midnight fuel price hikes under the cover of the night to benefit queen bees is a tragic joke that ain't funny. The centre is broken. It's time for visionary leadership, otherwise the people will perish! pic.twitter.com/hwmWUInipB— Prof Jonathan Moyo (@ProfJNMoyo) January 12, 2019
Fuel price increases without wage increases can only mean one thing: wages and savings have been totally eroded. Prices will rise. Everything. The first sign is workers will not be able to go to work. You solve one problem but open up another. It’s a calamity. Solve the politics!
— Alex T Magaisa ?? (@Wamagaisa) January 12, 2019
So a whole Presidium called a press conference to announce fuel increase. #Asakhe .
— Zenzele (@zenzele) January 12, 2019
Only in Africa where a president can call a press Conference to announce fuel price hikes pic.twitter.com/xxo6XC0PTp
— ApexNewsZim (@ApexNewsZim) January 12, 2019
It never rains but it pours. Some decisions that the Government of Zimbabwe are making are catastrophic. Failure to deal with the fuel crisis, labour crisis & economic crisis will cause an uprising in Zimbabwe. In USD terms our fuel is grossly over priced#FixZimbabwe #FuelCrisis pic.twitter.com/AdpMvliqea
— Linda Tsungirirai Masarira (@lilomatic) January 12, 2019
Sadly, once the fuel price goes up officially, the cost of transport, labour and other basic goods will automatically go up as well.
Let’s brace for tough times ahead.
— Fadzayi Mahere?? (@advocatemahere) January 12, 2019
So basically what ED's done,
Is to give us a fuel price,
Pegged at the black market price of the USD,
But he refuses to adjust salaries accordingly,
So he maintains the 1:1 lie.
@ new prices,
A teacher's pay,
Buys +/-120L fuel.
It's R17 in SA
So teachers earn +/- R2040/month
?— Thandekile Moyo (@Mamoxn) January 12, 2019
Fuel prices up with effect from midnight. Diesel $3.11 per litre and Petrol pegged at $3.31.
"These prices are predicated on the ruling official exchange rate of 1:1 between the Bond note and US$."
What does this last statement mean? Is it Pfeeconomics? pic.twitter.com/Jx7klYnPs4— Duduzile Nyirongo (@Dudu_Nyirongo) January 12, 2019
The Government has officially declared it's anti workers , anti poor & anti people ideological position tonight by increasing fuel prices. Workers salaries have now been reduced to nothing & our suffering elevated to another level.We must & will mobilize & fight for our survival
— ZCTU – Zimbabwe (@ZctuZimbabwe) January 12, 2019
Dambudzo said he is bringing sanity to the fuel sector by increasing the price of fuel by 300%.
Muroverei maoko president wenyu uyu. Anogona. Pfeeeeee munhamo!.
— Citizen Champion (@MpiganiaUhuru) January 12, 2019
https://twitter.com/tjchaitwa/status/1084167923353243650?s=19
So mnangagwa was announcing fuel hike for absent fuel?
— Mzilankatha (@Mzilankatha_) January 12, 2019
Bulawayo Taxi Fares Shoot Up Due To Fuel Price Increase
Own Correspondent|Residents of Bulawayo this morning woke up to a shock taxi fare increase following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s unprecedented doubling of the price of petrol last night.
The Commuter Omnibuses from the Western Suburbs of the City that are mostly high density increased their fares from 75 cents to $3 per single trip per person while those from the eastern low density suburbs decided to charged varied fares with some at $2.50 while others are charging $3.00.
Mnangagwa on Saturday night announced a hectic fuel price increase to $3.31 for petrol and $3.11 for diesel from $1.47 and $1.39 respectively.
Meanwhile, the city of Bulawayo did not have a drop of fuel on Saturday with long queues at all fuel stations. Motorists claim that the filling stations decided to hold on to the product in anticipation of the price increase.
Some stations started serving customers in the middle of the night after the increase came into effect.
Meanwhile, a social media post making rounds in the city and attributed to the Bulawayo United Public Transport Association indicates that the taxis fares have officially been pegged at $2.50 per trip.
Mugabe Writing A Book About His Life
Correspondent|FORMER Zimbabwean strongman Robert Mugabe is writing a book to record his memoirs after being ousted from power in dramatic fashion in a military ‘soft coup’ that ended 37 years of his rule in November 2017.
The revelations were made by veteran journalist Mduduzi Mathuthu on Twitter who said, “Robert Mugabe IS writing a book. Kunjalo.”
Mathuthu is the one who first broke the news that Professor Jonathan Moyo is writing a book before Professor Moyo confirmed it later on Twitter.
Recently former Deputy Prime Minister Authur Mutambara lamented that Robert Mugabe is about to die without writing a book so that people can read history from his lenses and understanding.
Commenting on Mathuthu’s post one Chenhamo Mutengure said , “Finally we get to read real history from the history maker who was there every step of the way. Not zvana Nyarota, Mutambara naRay.”
“I would buy the book,” said Mlungisi Dube.
Businessman Ali Naka questioned whether Mugabe is capable of writing a book at his age.
Many liberation struggle heroes in Zimbabwe have died without penning memoirs excluding Joshua Nkomo and Edgar Tekere.
In 2014 former National University of Science and Technology lecturer, Dumiso Gilbert Matshazi, said he chickened out of writing the late Home Affairs and Defence Minister Enos Nkala’s book after realizing that what the veteran politician wanted to reveal about President Robert Mugabe and others was too hot to handle.
Matshazi said Nkala, who was a founding member of the ruling party ZANU-PF, tasked him to publish the book after his death.
In a hard-hitting press statement announcing plans to write his memoirs, Nkala then said,”I want to remind His Excellency that I am not among those who die many times before their actual death. I am a son of heroes and a self-made hero and have just completed 74 years of my life with a greater part of it spent in Ian Smith’s prisons and detention camps for the liberation of my country.”
Zimbabweans on social media said they are waiting anxiously for the said Mugabe book should Mathuthu’s statement be true.
FC Platinum Hold Gigantic Orlando Pirates As Bulawayo Dumps The Home Boys
FC Platinum . . . . . . . . . . (0)
Orlando Pirates . . . . . . . (0)
ZIMBABWE’S representatives in the CAF Champions League, FC Platinum refused to be cowed into submission, restricting former African champions Orlando Pirates to a goalless draw in a sold out Barbourfields stadium yesterday.
Pure Platinum Play were making their first appearance in the competition’s group stages but the big difference in experience never showed against the mighty Sea Robbers.
FC Platinum are in a tough group which includes reigning African champions Esperance of Tunisia and Horoya AC of Guinea.
Yesterday’s result means the group is evenly poised after Horoya and Esperance also played a one all stalemate in Guinea last Friday.
The match was played in a packed Barbourfields, arguably the biggest crowd at the venue since the turn of the millennium when Highlanders used to rule the local football scene.
Disappointingly though, the huge crowd was behind the visiting team which won several Zimbabwean hearts with their penchant for local talent and Highlanders supporters just love to be associated with the Happy People.
Coach Norman Mapeza said the brief for his men in this competition was to enjoy the ride after reaching the group stages.
The astute gaffer is happy with the way his charges have fared so far and was satisfied with the point Pure Platinum Play gained ahead of Friday’s match against Esperance in Tunis.
“It was a good game of football, the guys really worked very hard and for me as a coach this is really a positive result.
“Of course we wanted to win the match but this is a positive result I am more than happy with a point.
“We have five games to go in the group stages and this is our first time in the group stages so we just need to enjoy the ride,” said Mapeza.
FC Platinum looked comfortable on the ball in the early exchanges but it was the visitors who created better goal scoring opportunities from the onset.
Mhari was nonetheless having none of it, producing a brilliant shift between the goal posts, denying the irresistible Soweto giants’ attacking threat on numerous occasions.
Tembinkosi Lorch was the first to be set free by the Buccaneers, followed by Innocent Maela but captain Mhari stood tall to deny the duo on both occasions.
Warriors forward Kuda Mahachi came into this duel on the back of a brilliant form and was also menacing in the final third but was restricted from taking shots at goal by his compatriots.
To their credit, the miners were refusing to be cowed into submission and had genuine chances to break the deadlock when midfield sentinel Kelvin Madzongwe tried from range but his effort was pushed wide for a corner by Pirates keeper Jackson Mabokgwane.
The Zimbabweans also had a penalty appeal waved away by the officials midway through the first half.
After the breather, the visitors came a better side and demonstrated the difference in class and experience between the two sides.
Ten minutes into the second stanza, vice-captain Gift Bello summoned his loads of experience sliding to deny Justing Shonga a way to face Mhari.
Moments later Mahachi received the ball in the box but failed to hit the target after striking the ball with his weaker foot.
The evergreen Farai Madhanaga had a good game in central midfield and could have done enough to charm South African scouts.
Midway through the second stanza he also tried to break the deadlock but his strike was wide.
Substitute Gift Mbweti was denied a potential goal scoring opportunity when Zimbabwe international Marshal Munetsi stood in the way to thwart his goal bound effort.
Orlando Pirates coach Milutin Sredojevic was happy with the support they received from their legion of supporters in Zimbabwe.
“It was a nice and very competitive match, firstly I would like to say it is very nice to come to a country you are very welcome.
“Our team is very much loved here and we want to thank the supporters for coming in their numbers and supporting us.
“We played against a very competitive side and we needed to get every detail like a game of chess, they came up with a setup we did not expect.
“We came here needing to tighten the back so that we do not concede and secondly to go forward and get that all important goal,” he said.
Teams:
FC Platinum: P Mhari, D Chafa, F Madhanaga, W Stima, G Bello, A Sadiki (G Mbweti 76’), K Madzongwe, R Kutsanzira, E Moyo, R Muduviwa, M Dube ( L Nhamo 85’)
Orlando Pirates: J Mabokgwane, H Jele, A Mbekile, A Ndengane, I Maela, M Nyatama, X Mlambo (O Mntambo 85’), M Munetsi, K Mahachi (V Pule 74’), T Lorch, J Shonga (A Mulenga 64’)
Cover picture: FC Platinum player Willium Stima(14) beats his marker Orlando Pirates’ FC player Thembinkosi Christopher Lorch in a CAF match played at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo on Saturday.
State Media
FULL TEXT: Mnangagwa’s Historic Petrol Price Increase Speech
STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT, CDE E.D. MNANGAGWA, ON THE EVE OF A MAJOR FIVE-NATION FOREIGN OFFICIAL VISIT, 12TH JANUARY, 2019
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media,
I have decided, through you, to share with the Nation details on my forthcoming five-nation visit to Russia, Belarus, Kazakstan, Azerbaijan and Switzerland. My visit to the first four States will enhance bilateral relations in line with our policy of engagement.
As you may be aware, these four countries have had good relations with us before and after Independence, with Russia standing with us in the United Nations Security Council at our moment of greatest need.
My visit this time around will focus predominantly on bilateral economic engagement especially in areas of mining, technology, agriculture, energy and human capita development, among others. As I visit, Zimbabwe already has scores of students who are receiving tertiary training in critical skills areas in these countries.
In Switzerland, I shall be attending the Davos World Economic Forum. Alongside other world leaders and business executives, I shall be consolidating and reaffirming our message that “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” and “Dialogue” in the context of our policy of engaging and re-engaging the world.
Given that the World Economic Forum is a premier Forum for the interaction of political and business leaders, Zimbabwe will take full advantage of this opportunity to market itself and to seek gainful investment partnerships.
For its recovery, Zimbabwe cannot go it alone. To this end, my delegation will include our own business leaders who will be interacting with their counterparts and potential investors.
As I leave the country, I am aware of the economic strides we have made, and also of the challenges that lie ahead. In particular, our agricultural performance is likely to be impacted negatively by the El Nino phenomenon.
It is in this regard that Government, alongside other SADC States who are in a similar situation, has initiated an appeal for appropriate assistance from the international community.
Let me now turn to the fuel situation obtaining in the country.
Following the persistent shortfall in the fuel market attributable to increased fuel usage in the economy, and compounded by rampant illegal currency and fuel trading activities, Government has today decided on the following corrective measures:
1. With effect from midnight tonight, a fuel pump price of $3,11 per litre for diesel, and $3,31 per litre for petrol, will come into effect. These prices are predicated on the ruling official exchange rate of 1:1 between the Bond Note and the United States Dollar, and also on the need to keep fuel retailers viable.
Guests of Government by way of foreign missions and other registered foreign bodies, and tourists will fuel and refuel at designated points at the price cf US$1,24 per litre for diesel, and US$2,32 per litre for petrol, upon production of proper identification documents.
2. Cognisant of the need to prevent generalized price increases for goods and services in the country, with the attendant hardships which that will entail especially to the commuting workforce, Government has decided to grant a rebate to all registered business entities in Manufacturing, Mining, Commerce, Agriculture and Transport sectors.
Details on the exact form the rebate system will take will be announced in due course. Given these cost mitigations and incentives, Government does not expect, and will not allow, businesses to engage in a new round of price increases.
3. Equally, Government will enhance the export incentive scheme by an additional 2.5%.
4. Government has put in place measures to ensure constant fuel supply into the country for sustainable fuel availability.
5. Government is putting in place a package of measures to cushion its workers, until a full review of Cost—of-Living Adjustment package due in April 2019 is effected, in the context of the current budget.
6. Government is aware of attempts by certain elements bent on taking advantage of the current fuel shortages to cause and sponsor unrest and instability in the country.
Such politically motivated activities will not be tolerated. To curb continued misuse of fuel in the country, Government, through relevant Departments which include its security structures, have started on a comprehensive audit of all fuel draw-downs with a view to establishing points of leakages. Where criminal conduct is apparent, the law will take its course.
I thank you.
“Its Fake!”: MDC
By Own Correspondent| Responding to questions on whether a letter doing social media rounds was indeed their statement, MDC Spokesperson Jacob Mafume attributed the letter to the security details bent on tarnishing the image of the party.
Said Mafume:
“Its a high level desperation when the regime resorts to publishing falsehoods in order to tarnish the image of our party. They seek to put the blame on us, it’s infantile.”
Below is the letter which the party has distanced itself from:
“National Crisis Is Turning Into A Humanitarian One, Lets Put Hands On The Deck”: Nelson Chamisa
By Own Correspondent| Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has said his party is ready to play a key role in finding a lasting solution to the country’s national crisis which is slowly degenerating into a humanitarian crisis.
Chamisa’s statement follows announcements by President Emmerson Mnangagwa revealing the new fuel prices in a development which analysts have said will see the prices of all goods and services sky rocketing.
Said Chamisa:
Fellow Zimbabweans, we acknowledge and understand that we have a national crisis, which is descending into a humanitarian crisis. We believe this crisis requires all hands on the deck. We will lead and stand ready to play a key role in finding a lasting solution.
— nelson chamisa (@nelsonchamisa) January 12, 2019
Kuwadzana Library To Be Officially Opened On Wednesday
By Own Correspondent| His Worship Harare Mayor Councillor Herbert Gomba will this Wednesday officially open Kuwadzana library, ZimEye has learnt.
This was revealed by the Coty of Harare in a tweet:
Said the City of Harare:
KUWADZANA LIBRARY TO BE OFFICIALLY OPENED ON WEDNESDAY BY HIS WORSHIP HARARE MAYOR CLR HERBERT THOMAS GOMBA.
— City of Harare (@cohsunshinecity) January 12, 2019
Mnangagwa Cushions Gvnt Guests, Foreigners From Fuel Price Increases
By Own Correspondent| President Mnangagwa announced Government visitors in the country by way of foreign missions and other registered foreign bodies, and tourists will buy fuel in United States dollars.
Mnangagwa made the announcement on Saturday evening where he also announced Government’s decision to increase the price of fuel. Zimbabweans will pay $3,11 per litre for diesel, and $3,31 per litre for petrol. Mnangagwa said the prices are predicated on the ruling official exchange rate of 1:1 between the Bond Note and the United States Dollar, and also on the need to keep fuel retailers viable.
He said Government visitors will buy fuel at designated points.
Said Mnangagwa:
“Guests of Government by way of foreign missions and other registered foreign bodies, and tourists will fuel and refuel at designated points at the price of f US$1,24 per litre for diesel, and US$2,32 per litre for petrol, upon production of proper identification documents.”
LIVE – “I Never Liked Mugabe, But Never Heard Him Coming On TV To Announce Fuel Price Increases!”
" I Never Liked Mugabe, But Never Heard Him Coming On TV To Announce Price Increases! " TRUE/FALSE
— ZimEye (@ZimEye) January 13, 2019
Guvamombe Arrest: PG Says Bigwigs Are Interfering
Guvamombe, who was hauled before the court on charges of criminal abuse of office, has since been granted $3 000 bail coupled with stringent conditions after appearing before Harare magistrate Mr Munamato Mutevedzi.
He was arrested on Friday on allegations of offering industrial attachment to two former Cabinet Ministers Saviour Kasukuwere and Supa Mandiwanzira at the Harare Magistrates’ Court in full knowledge that the duo were facing charges of corruption before the same courts. The ex-ministers are studying law at the University of Zimbabwe. In an interview yesterday, Mr Hodzi said a police report has since been made.
“As far as the chief magistrate is concerned, we have gathered that there are some influential people that have been attempting to interfere in his case. There are witnesses who were being forced to change their statements. We want to assure the public that this case will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law.”
The acting PG said he was not in a position to name the culprits for fear of jeopardising ongoing investigations.
“Investigations are continuing and we don’t want to jeopardise the process. I can assure the people that we are on top of the situation and we will not be intimidated.”
The PG’s Office, Mr Hodzi added, has made headway in unravelling some of the criminal networks involved in grand corruption.
“We now have an idea of what we are dealing with and we have made some breakthroughs. In the fullness of time, everything will be revealed. These cartels include members of the judiciary, the media and NPA officials.”
Mr Hodzi said his office is also looking into allegations by top Harare lawyer Advocate Slyvester Hashiti of corruption in the judiciary.
“Mr Hashiti made serious allegations pertaining to corruption of the judiciary. I have asked him to come forward with the information and we will do all we can to act on any matter that is brought forward,” he said.
Yesterday, Mr Mutevedzi granted Guvamombe bail after he ruled that the State, which was represented by Messrs Michael Reza and Zivanai Macharaga, failed to submit compelling reasons to deny bail. The State unsuccessfully claimed that Guvamombe was likely to interfere with witnesses once released.
State witness Mr Clemence Mashawu of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)’s Anti-Corruption Unit, who is the lead investigating officer in the case, alleged that the accused had threatened some witnesses. Mr Mashawu also claimed that Guvamombe had also directed Harare provincial magistrate Elisha Singano to give him key case files.
But the defence, led by Mr Jonathan Samukange, who was assisted by Messrs Farai Nyamayaro, Arnold Taruvinga and Steady Kachere, said the case files were meant to assist in preparing the accused’s defence.
Guvamombe was ordered to surrender his passport and prohibited from traveling 50 kilometres out of Harare. He will also report thrice a week at Harare’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Further, he was ordered to surrender surety of property worth more than $30 000.
Guvamombe will appear for routine remand on 25 January.-state media
“Fuel Price Hikes Is A Display Of Incompetence And Hopeless Confusion”: MDC Tells Mnangagwa
By Own Correspondent| The announcement of the new fuel prices is a display of incompetence , hopeless confusion and absolute disregard of the plight of the Zimbabwean people, opposition MDC led by Nelson Chamisa has said.
The party said what characterized Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s witchly hour press conference is not only misguided but hapless.
Said National Spokesperson Jacob Mafume:
“The shock announcement of fuel prices hikes is not only misguided, but hapless. Any citizen who tuned in to the press conference has surely been left even more aware of the cluelessness that has been masquerading as Zimbabwean leadership since November 2017.
That the fuel increase will only trigger a wave of price hikes on each and every other item on the shelves is as obvious as the incapacity of Zanu Pf to govern and lead a prosperous Zimbabwe.
Instead of accepting its gross failure to turn the economy around, the cartel now basks in the pretence of “mega deals” in curious corners of the forgotten world such as Uzbekistan, Khazakistan, and other places you may never have heard of.
The Zimbabwean commuter will, starting Sunday the 13th of January, fill the pinch of this administration’s hopelessness, while Mnangagwa and his scarfed- henchmen will be comfortably flying Swiss jets.
They will continue to go tiger fishing, golf modelling on taxes collected from the 2% hike.
As we strenously pointed out in the run up to the stolen July 2018 election, nothing exists in the Zanu PF manifesto or the minds of the cabal leadership that can pass off as an idea or policy from which hope of a prosperous Zimbabwean economy can spring eternal.
The Mnangagwa administration has clearly failed in most absolute terms and must just resign and let Zimbabwe move forward.
The MDC joins every Zimbabwean bearing the brunt of this abject failure in calling Mr Mnangagwa and his faux government to order.”
Drama As Family Dumps Body At Killer’s House
There was drama at Mzemba Village in Zhombe, Kwekwe when the family of a man who was killed on New Year’s Day dumped the body at the suspected assailant’s homestead and left it for three days demanding 16 cattle as compensation.
The incident occurred two weeks ago when relatives of Leaders Nkomo (25), of Mzemba Village under Chief Ntabeni in Zhombe, allegedly dumped his body at a fellow villager Rodrick Ndlovu’s homestead demanding 16 cattle as compensation after he was accused of having a hand in the killing of the deceased.
According to Ndlovu, Nkomo’s relatives besieged his homestead armed with machetes and dumped the body, accusing him of having a hand in the death of their relative. Ndlovu said the relatives left the body at his homestead for three days and later retrieved it after he paid 10 cattle.
“What happened is that, I was at St Theresa Shopping Centre on the day when a group of young men from my village started fighting. When I tried to restrain them, two people Doit and Prince (Nyathi) allegedly stabbed Leaders several times.
“We heard that he died the following day at Loreto Mission Hospital. So after that incident, Leaders’ body was taken by police for post-mortem. When the body was brought back, his relatives brought it to my place and left it there for three days. They were demanding 16 cattle as compensation. My relatives then contributed 10 cattle and they removed the body. They were accusing me of being one of the people who killed their relative,” he said.
Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Joel Goko confirmed the murder.
“I can confirm that we are investigating a murder case which occurred on New Year’s Day. It is alleged that the now deceased was drinking beer at St Theresa Shopping Centre and an altercation arose between him and fellow villagers Manford Dube, Rodrick Ndlovu and Prince Nyathi.
It is suspected that it degenerated into a fight resulting in Leaders being stabbed on the head below the ear,” he said.
Insp Goko said Leaders was rushed to Kwekwe District Hospital where he died the following morning. -state media
“We Are Sorry For The Loss Of Lives During Doctors’ Strike”: Health Ministry Apologises
By Own Correspondent| Health and Child Care ministry has issued a public apology for the loss of lives and suffering during the just-ended doctors’ strike.
In a statement published in the press, the ministry expressed appreciated citizens for being patient during the crisis.
The statement reads:
“The ministry of Health and Child Care would like to notify the public that the doctors who had embarked on strike from December 1, have now agreed to resume duties at their various stations. We would like to appreciate and acknowledge the patience shown by our citizens during this prolonged impasse.
We regret any suffering or loss of life that may have occurred during this period. We now look forward to a body of professionals in their diversity to provide the much-needed health service while government works towards creating a better environment for the delivery of such service.”
Zim Teenager, Makanaka Chikowero Shines At LOWA Games
Proud of you Makanaka Chikowero. Congrats on winning clean and bringing home 3 gold medals from Iowa games. You continue to inspire. #HealthyBodiesBrightMinds #GirlsInSport @phumzileunwomen @FariraiG @muyambo_r @Ahenafula @chipo_mtasa @adidasUS pic.twitter.com/GyBoxZlWGz
— Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda (@vanyaradzayi) January 13, 2019
“Black Saturday As Mnangagwa Fuels Inflation”: MDC
A display of incompetence , hopeless confusion and absolute disregard of the plight of the Zimbabwean is what characterized Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s witchly hour press conference.
The shock announcement of fuel prices hikes is not only misguided, but hapless. Any citizen who tuned in to the press conference has surely been left even more aware of the cluelessness that has been masquerading as Zimbabwean leadership since November 2017.
That the fuel increase will only trigger a wave of price hikes on each and every other item on the shelves is as obvious as the incapacity of Zanu Pf to govern and lead a prosperous Zimbabwe.
Instead of accepting its gross failure to turn the economy around, the cartel now basks in the pretence of “mega deals” in curious corners of the forgotten world such as Uzbekistan, Khazakistan, and other places you may never have heard of.
The Zimbabwean commuter will, starting Sunday the 13th of January, fill the pinch of this administration’s hopelessness, while Mnangagwa and his scarfed- henchmen will be comfortably flying Swiss jets.
They will continue to go tiger fishing, golf modelling on taxes collected from the 2% hike.
As we strenously pointed out in the run up to the stolen July 2018 election, nothing exists in the Zanu PF manifesto or the minds of the cabal leadership that can pass off as an idea or policy from which hope of a prosperous Zimbabwean economy can spring eternal.
The Mnangagwa administration has clearly failed in most absolute terms and must just resign and let Zimbabwe move forward.
The MDC joins every Zimbabwean bearing the brunt of this abject failure in calling Mr Mnangagwa and his faux government to order.
Behold the New. Change that Delivers!
Jacob Mafume
MDC National Spokesperson
Angry Motorists Force Station Selling Fuel in US$ Only To Close – Flood of Anger Against Hardship Will Be Unstoppable
“The agitated motorists said the service station was even refusing to accept its own fuel coupons further enraging a multitude of motorists in possession of the coupons,” it continues.
I was not surprised to read that story. Indeed, I expect such stories and worse to become the common place stories.
There is only so much that even the most subservient and cowed people can take before they stand up and say enough is enough.
In 1980, Zimbabweans were a very proud people full of hope and confidence in a free, just, prosperous and bright Zimbabwe. The country had a robust economy second only to that of South Africa in sub-Sahara Africa. Our agricultural sector was one of the best in the world; producing quality tobacco and was rightly proud to be the breadbasket of the region. All that is now gone.
38 years of criminal waste of human and material resources through gross mismanagement and rampant corruption by this Zanu PF regime has destroyed the country’s economy. For decades now, the country has relied on imported food aid, we are so impoverished we cannot even pay for the food.
We live in the day and age where human ingenuity has turn deserts from a sea of sand into a sea of wheat fields and orchards. And yet we, in Zimbabwe, are now starving in a country that is, for all practical purposes, the Garden of Eden. Such is the damning testimonial to the sheer incompetence of Zanu PF leadership.
It is not that the people were not aware that Zanu PF was destroying the nation’s economy; that they were. True, it took most Zimbabweans nearly 20 years to acknowledge that Robert Mugabe and his Zanu PF friends, the liberation war heroes and heroines, were not just incompetent and corrupt but, worst of all, were vote rigging and murderous thugs.
Mugabe and company has used brute force to create and retain the de facto one party, Zanu PF, dictatorship that has ruled the country since independence in 1980. The party has then used its carte blanche dictatorial powers to deny the people a meaningful vote and stay in power now 38 years and still counting.
President Mnangagwa blatantly rigged last July’s elections to extend Zanu PF’s ruinous rule. Ever since the election, the economic meltdown has got worse and not better.
The economic situation in Zimbabwe today is dire. Unemployment has soared to dizzying height of 90%. Basic services such as supply of clean water, education and health care have all but collapsed. Even the country’s referral hospitals have often cancelled routine operations because the hospital did
not have something as basic pain killers. There is no way this tragic situation can continue without the people venting their anger.
Junior doctors have been on strike since 1 st December 2018 to protest their slave wages and inhuman conditions in the hospitals and clinics. Teachers are too threaten to go on strike for the same reasons. Now we hear ordinary members of the public are forcing a petrol station to close because they cannot stomach the hardships and abuse they are being subjected to.
It takes the flooding of individual and insignificant streams and tributaries to flood the great Zambezi River. The striking junior doctors, teachers and now angry motorists; these are all the tell-tale signs of the growing anger and frustration of the impoverished Zimbabweans. The nation must act now to easy the economic meltdown before flood becomes too big not even the dam wall can stop it.
Zimbabwe’s economic problems are neither complex nor insurmountable. Indeed there are many other nations whose starting off position was far worse than that Zimbabwe is in today. What Zimbabwe needs desperately are leaders with some common sense to replace the braindead who have ruled the country these last four decades. And all we need to do to get our quality leaders is implement the democratic reforms to end the dictatorship that has stifled public debate and democratic competition.
The vote rigging and thus illegitimate Zanu PF regime must be forced to step down to allow the nation the time and space to appoint an interim administration to implement the reforms.
The country’s worsening economic meltdown is forcing Zimbabweans to lose their fear of the murderous Zanu PF thugs and to demand that the regime pay them a living wage, end the fuel shortages, etc. As the economic meltdown gets worse the people’s demands will get louder and more resolute.
It is only a matter of time before the people realise that this Mnangagwa regime has no clue what to do to end the economic meltdown and that it is just playing for time to remain in power till 2023 so it can rig that year’s elections too. The prospect of the economic chaos continuing for another year is daunting enough the reality of more of the same chaos for yet another five years beyond 2023 is unthinkable. That reality will force junior doctors, teachers and the rest of the population to unite and demand that Zanu PF steps down with one coherent voice.
Zimbabwe’s economic recovery will only start with the dismantling of the Zanu PF dictatorship, with the regime being forced to step down! – SOURCE: zsdemocrats.blogspot.com
“State Oppression On The Rise”: MDC
By Own Correspondent| MDC National Spokesperson Jacob Mafume has condemned the arrest of youth activist Makomborero Haruzivishe describing it as a barbaric episode which has no space in modern day society.
Haruzivishe was arrested Saturday at Robert Mugabe International Airport but details of the charges he was facing were still sketchy by the time of writing.
Sources privy to the development allege that he was arrested for taking photographs in a high security zone.
Said Mafume in a statement
The arrest of Makomborero Haruzivishe is another barbaric episode which must not be part of a modern Zimbabwean society.
The MDC condemns in the strongest terms this arrest with the contempt it deserves.
As mentioned in our statement yesterday, the abuse of state apparatus for unconstitutional partisan agendas is not only an illegality but deals a blow to the acceptance of the motherland in the family of nations.
A state which oppresses it’s own people defines those who claim to be the leaders; it exposes their thuggery and their mafia style intolerance and persecution of those who hold different political views.
A full blown autocracy.
Makomborero was nearly abducted in 2018 less than a week after his testimony at the August 1 inquiry.
Before his arrest today, the state had arrested and illegally detained his colleagues from the Global Youth Action from DRC and USA who were later deported after a night long interrogation.
There has also been a concerning revival of trumped up charges on the National Youth Chairperson, Hon Happymore Chidziva.
It is clear that this has nothing to do with prosecution but persecution.
The democratic space is closing, we are concerned by this relentless retrogression.
We demand his immediate release and an end of politically motivated arrests.
What Zimbabweans need is a lasting solution to the current economic meltdown. Zimbabweans need to know when fuel supplies will return to normalcy. They need to know the official currency to trade in, they need decent wages, jobs, infrastructural development, Zimbabweans need a listening government that shows concern for the suffering masses.
They certainly don’t deserve such a clueless, heartless and ignorant government as displayed by the failed Zanu PF government.
Behold the New. Change that delivers!
Jacob Mafume
MDC National Spokesperson
Black Saturday in Zimbabwe As Mnangagwa Fuels Inflation
By Jacob Mafume | A display of incompetence , hopeless confusion and absolute disregard of the plight of the Zimbabwean is what characterized Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s witchly hour press conference.
The shock announcement of fuel prices hikes is not only misguided, but hapless. Any citizen who tuned in to the press conference has surely been left even more aware of the cluelessness that has been masquerading as Zimbabwean leadership since November 2017.
That the fuel increase will only trigger a wave of price hikes on each and every other item on the shelves is as obvious as the incapacity of Zanu Pf to govern and lead a prosperous Zimbabwe.
Instead of accepting its gross failure to turn the economy around, the cartel now basks in the pretence of “mega deals” in curious corners of the forgotten world such as Uzbekistan, Khazakistan, and other places you may never have heard of.
The Zimbabwean commuter will, starting Sunday the 13th of January, fill the pinch of this administration’s hopelessness, while Mnangagwa and his scarfed- henchmen will be comfortably flying Swiss jets.
They will continue to go tiger fishing, golf modelling on taxes collected from the 2% hike.
As we strenously pointed out in the run up to the stolen July 2018 election, nothing exists in the Zanu PF manifesto or the minds of the cabal leadership that can pass off as an idea or policy from which hope of a prosperous Zimbabwean economy can spring eternal.
The Mnangagwa administration has clearly failed in most absolute terms and must just resign and let Zimbabwe move forward.
The MDC joins every Zimbabwean bearing the brunt of this abject failure in calling Mr Mnangagwa and his faux government to order.
Behold the New. Change that Delivers!
Jacob Mafume
MDC National Spokesperson
VIDEO: Mnangagwa Increases Fuel Prices Without Increasing Salaries | IS HE A NORMAL HUMAN BEING?
VIDEO: Mnangagwa Increases Fuel Prices Without Increasing Salaries | IS HE A NORMAL HUMAN BEING?
— ZimEye (@ZimEye) January 12, 2019
VIDEO: Mnangagwa Says Zimbabwe Has Made Economic Strides
“…I am aware of the economic strides we have made…”
By Farai D Hove| ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa has said the country has had economic strides. Announcing while reading his speech LIVE on ZBC Saturday night, Mnangagwa said, “as I leave the country, I am aware of the economic strides we have made, and also of the challenges that lie ahead in particular our agriculture performance is likely to be impacted negatively by the Elnino phenomenon. It is in this regard that government alongside other SADC states who are in a similar situation has initiated an appeal for an appropriate assistance from the international community. ” VIDEO:
VIDEO: BREAKING- MNANGAGWA ANNOUNCES FUEL PRICE INCREASE
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
The Arrest Of Makomborero Haruzivishe A Travesty Of Justice Says MDC
The arrest of Makomborero Haruzivishe is another barbaric episode which must not be part of a modern Zimbabwean society.
The MDC condemns in the strongest terms this arrest with the contempt it deserves.
As mentioned in our statement yesterday, the abuse of state apparatus for unconstitutional partisan agendas is not only an illegality but deals a blow to the acceptance of the motherland in the family of nations.
A state which oppresses it’s own people defines those who claim to be the leaders; it exposes their thuggery and their mafia style intolerance and persecution of those who hold different political views.
A full blown autocracy.
Makomborero was nearly abducted in 2018 less than a week after his testimony at the August 1 inquiry.
Before his arrest today, the state had arrested and illegally detained his colleagues from the Global Youth Action from DRC and USA who were later deported after a night long interrogation.
There has also been a concerning revival of trumped up charges on the National Youth Chairperson, Hon Happymore Chidziva.
It is clear that this has nothing to do with prosecution but persecution.
The democratic space is closing, we are concerned by this relentless retrogression.
We demand his immediate release and an end of politically motivated arrests.
What Zimbabweans need is a lasting solution to the current economic meltdown. Zimbabweans need to know when fuel supplies will return to normalcy. They need to know the official currency to trade in, they need decent wages, jobs, infrastructural development, Zimbabweans need a listening government that shows concern for the suffering masses.
They certainly don’t deserve such a clueless, heartless and ignorant government as displayed by the failed Zanu PF government.
Behold the New. Change that delivers!
Jacob Mafume
MDC National Spokesperson
LIVE: Zimbabwe ShutDown Update
BREAKING- Mnangagwa Breaks Silence As He Is Set To Issue Presser
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa is set to issue a press statement, the ministry of information and publicity has revealed.
Revealed the ministry in a tweet:
“In the next few minutes President of the Republic is going to issue a Statement to the nation at the State House.”
Responding to Wellington Madhefu who queried whether Mnangagwa was in the country or not, the information ministry responded and said he is in the country.
In the next few minutes President of the Republic is going to issue a Statement to the nation.
Venue: State House.— Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) January 12, 2019
I thought he's out of the country
— Wellington Madhefu (@madhefu) January 12, 2019
He is in the country
— Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) January 12, 2019
VIDEO: Chamisa Struggles To Get Through Spaghetti Queue
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
BREAKING NEWS – Mako Haruzivishe Arrested
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
President Chamisa Goes LIVE
Vendors Implore Mthuli Ncube To Abandon Use Of Bond Notes
By Own Correspondent| Bulawayo Vendors Trust have urged Finance minister Mthuli Ncube to abandon the use of the bond notes which they say is having adverse effects on the informal economy.
Said the organisation:
“Government’s surrogate currency, bond note has negatively affected the informal economy. Informal traders have to exchange the bond notes for foreign currency on black market and where they are accepted they devalue the currency which leaves a huge dent in their pockets.”
Finance and Economic Development Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube yesterday said the country will have its own currency within the next 12 months, as Government is frantically working on raising enough foreign currency to anchor it.
Addressing delegates at a “Road to Davos” townhall meeting in the capital yesterday, Prof Ncube said adopting the United States dollar or the South African rand would not solve the country’s macro-economic problems.
He said:
“On the issue of raising enough foreign currency to introduce the new currency, we are on our way already, give us months, not years.”
“Two More Years To Go Before Gvnt Scraps 2% Tax”: Mthuli Ncube Tells Zimbabweans
By Own Correspondent| Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has revealed that Zimbabwe will do away with the divisive two percent tax in the next two to three years arguing that the country cannot have austerity forever.
Speaking at the Global Shapers Zimbabwe Road to Davos discussion in the capital Harare Friday, Ncube said he was now comfortable with the fiscal side of his austerity measures and is now working on the monetary side.
He spoke against the demands for dollarisation which he described as capitulation while justifying the need to re-introduce the Zimbabwean dollar.
He said:
“I’m now comfortable with the fiscal side in austerity measures. I even contemplate easing taxes in the next 2/3 years. We can’t ‘ve austerity foreeva. What’s left now is the heavy weight lifting on the monetary policy side. Dollarization would be capitulation. We need own currency.”
Chamisa Engages Citizens In #Takecharge
By Own Correspondent| Opposition MDC leader who was ordained the People’s President, Nelson Chamisa on Saturday morning engaged Zimbabweans to contribute towards finding solutions to the country’s woes opening a harshtag dubbed #takecharge.
Said Chamisa in writing:
“As we prepare to roll out the 2019 roadmap, agenda, action plan and vision for Zimbabwe going forward, the situation in the country is further deteriorating and worsening.
What would you recommend to be done to arrest and solve our common problems in Zimbabwe?”
“Unite And Engage In Civil Disobedience, Its The Only Language Understood By Zanu Pf”:
By Own Correspondent| Zimbabwe Democracy Institute Director Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya has called on citizens to unite and engage in civil disobedience as a way of challenging the current Zanu Pf administration for failing to deliver on election promises.
Dr Ruhanya said agonising is not the solution but people should organise and unite in challenging the existing status quo and engage in peaceful demonstrations as this is the only language that is understood by Zanu Pf.
Said Ruhanya:
“Zimbos come together in the national interest to peacefully, lawfully resist through civil disobedience the 39 years of failed policies of ZANU PF. Dont agonise, organise. Bring ZANU PF to the negotiation table through public protests of MISRULE, thats only language they hear!
The socio-economic-politico crisis in Zimbabwe and the consequent national anger requires a leader now. In the late 1990s Morgan Tsvangirai stood up and brought together all disparate forces and voices; labour, students, poor, employers and farmers workers to confront Bob, system.”
FAKE LETTER POSTED ON TAWANDA NYAMBIRAI’S FACEBOOK PAGE
ZAOGA Pastor In Trouble, Accused Of Stoning Police Vehicle
Thirteen individuals, including a reverend at Zaoga Forward in Faith Ministries, were arraigned before the courts yesterday for allegedly pelting a police car with stones.
Blessing Mwale, Sakina Masaraure, Thulani Mpofu, Raymond Maratu, Tawanda Murerekwa, Benedict Gova, Liberty Mutasa, Tafadzwa Chanetsa, Gilbert Chinyora, Shelton Moyo, Trymore Folani, Mathew Time and Wellington Tshuma appeared before Harare magistrate Victoria Mashamba charged with public violence.
The State, led by Sebastian Mutizirwa, opposed bail, arguing that the accused persons are facing a serious offence.
Mutizirwa said they committed the offence in aggravating circumstances and that they have a strong case against the accused persons.
“The accused persons were caught on the scene of the crime while committing the offence. I humbly submit that they are not proper candidates for bail,” Mutizirwa told the court.
Through their lawyer Sungai Sibanda, they argued that the police acted without due care and arrested ordinary citizens.
Sibanda said one of the accused Chanetsa, who is a student on attachment, was arrested at Africa Unity Square as he was coming from Nissan Clover Leaf Motors where he had gone to collect his recommendation letter.
“The State has used a dragnet tactic in arresting the accused persons,” Sibanda submitted.
However, Mashamba released them on $100 bail and ordered them to continue residing at their given address and report to their nearest police stations once every Friday.
Allegations are that on January 9 and at around 3pm, a police Mazda B1800 with 11 officers was on patrol in and around the Harare Central Business District (CBD).
Upon reaching corner Kwame Nkrumah Avenue and First Street, the police officers were confronted by a riotous mob which attacked and pelted the police with stones and bricks.
It is the State’s case that the police car was extensively damaged and its windscreen shattered.
— DailyNews