By Crime and Courts Reporter–Harare Regional Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka has sentenced Avondale Primary School deputy headmistress Roseline Boroma to three years in prison for corruption.

Boroma was convicted after a full trial on charges of unlawfully handpicking a company to supply sports equipment to the school, bypassing the legally required procurement procedures.

Of the three-year sentence, two years will be served effectively, while one year was suspended on condition of good behaviour.

During the trial, Boroma denied the charges, claiming that the selection of the company—Framatic Engineering (Pvt) Ltd—was initiated by the end user department.

However, prosecutor Kudakwashe Muza presented evidence that proved otherwise.

As a government-run institution, Avondale Primary School is classified as a procuring entity under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act. 

According to proper procedure, a requisition for goods or services must be initiated by the user department and submittedto both the Procurement and Finance departments.

Final approval is granted by the accounting officer, in this case, the school headmaster.

Prosecutor Muza told the court that in 2023, the school’s Sports Department required new basketball and netball goalposts.

The Head of Sports Department, Shuvai Stella Zhanje, verbally informed Boroma of the need.

Instead of initiating the formal procurement process, Boroma corruptly handpicked Framatic Engineering (Pvt) Ltd to supply and install the sports equipment without consulting the user department, Procurement Department, or the headmistress.

The company went on to install the equipment—costing US$1,780—on the school grounds, much to the surprise of the Sports Department, which had not raised a formal request.

The irregularities were reported to the headmistress and the School Development Committee, ultimately resulting in a police investigation and Boroma’s arrest.

Tinashe Sambiri

Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government for creating a “living hell” for Zimbabwean workers, citing rampant corruption, low wages, and the collapse of public services.

Chamisa expressed solidarity with Zimbabwean workers on May Day, saying, “Today is Workers’ Day… a moment to thank all the workers who make the wheels of nations turn and the economies of the world tick.”

He highlighted the dire state of employment, noting that many workers are trapped in extreme poverty. “Zimbabwe is a country without work for many. Even for those with jobs, life is unbearable.”

Chamisa described current wage levels as “modern-day slavery,” saying, “Many workers are earning extremely low wages rendering them working poor, basically putting them in the poverty bracket.”

He also pointed out the collapse of the pension system and social protections, stating, “Many workers have lost their pensions and face a difficult retirement future. Zimbabwean workers literally live, work, and retire in poverty.”

Chamisa warned that the crisis is leading to a brain drain, saying, “The level of poverty in the working class has driven many professionals to seek better opportunities outside the country.”

He promised that a future government under his leadership would prioritize workers’ rights and dignity, outlining key reforms such as rebuilding the economy, protecting collective bargaining, and implementing anti-corruption measures.

Chamisa concluded, “This country has sufficient resources and potential to provide decent wages and working conditions for our suffering workers. Workers will be the happiest under the coming new government.”

He ended with a message of hope and unity, saying, “Workers of the world, unite! Salute to you all the workers. Forever and always.”

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Workers’ Day message has been widely criticized as hollow and lacking substance, with observers accusing him of offering platitudes instead of concrete action to address the worsening conditions faced by Zimbabwean workers.

As inflation continues to erode salaries and the cost of living soars, many had expected the president to outline clear policy steps to tackle issues such as low wages, job insecurity, and deteriorating working conditions in both the public and private sectors. Instead, his brief statement made no mention of any tangible plans or interventions by his administration.

Below is the full text of Mnangagwa’s statement, posted on social media:

**”As we commemorate Workers’ Day, let us remain inspired by our national development philosophy #NyikaInovakwaNeveneVayo. Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the welfare, rights, and dignity of workers. With these remarks, it is my pleasure and honour to wish you all — Zimbabweans at home and abroad — a happy Workers’ Day.”

The message, which emphasized patriotism over policy, was met with swift backlash from labour unions and civil society groups. Critics argue it reflects a continued detachment from the daily struggles of workers who face stagnant wages, high unemployment, and a weakened social safety net.

“No mention of salary reviews, pension reforms, or workplace protections — just empty slogans,” said one union leader.

Mnangagwa’s administration has come under increasing pressure to respond to widespread discontent within the workforce, particularly in the health, education, and civil service sectors, where strikes and protests have become common in recent years.

Yet, on a day meant to honour workers, the president’s silence on key labour concerns has only deepened frustration.

By A Correspondent

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has strongly rejected the government-led Workers’ Day celebrations held in Harare, accusing the Public Service Commission (PSC) of staging a symbolic event detached from the daily realities of suffering public sector employees.

In a statement issued on May 1, ARTUZ denounced the PSC-organized event — which took place at Allan Wilson High School in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) — as a tone-deaf spectacle orchestrated to mask the government’s failure to address genuine labour grievances.

Describing the gathering as elitist and insincere, the union said:
“Good to see Employer’s sweetheart Unions and the boss opting for air conditioned boardrooms for May Day commemorations coffee. Celebrating selling out for a whole year should never be taken to crowds. Enjoy the closed door romance.”

The PSC, in its promotional message ahead of the event, had framed the celebration as an inclusive occasion, stating:
“Be part of the May Day Commemorations at Allan Wilson High School in Harare where the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) and its affiliate Labor Unions in partnership with the PSC host public sector workers in Workers Day celebrations on 1 May 2025.”

However, ARTUZ maintained that the event failed to reflect the dire working conditions endured by teachers and other civil servants, particularly in rural areas, where poor pay, lack of resources, and deteriorating infrastructure remain unaddressed.

By distancing itself from what it called a “romanticized” celebration, ARTUZ underscored growing tensions between independent unions and government-aligned labour groups, with the former demanding authentic engagement and action on long-standing issues affecting public sector workers.

By Municipal Reporter–The Transport Ministry has retracted its earlier claim that all companies contracted to rehabilitate the dilapidated Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road are currently on site.

On Tuesday, 29 April 2025, the Ministry announced via its official X (formerly Twitter) account that government efforts to upgrade the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road were progressing, with rehabilitation works expected to commence in May. The post further stated that eight contractors involved in the project were already deployed.

However, it subsequently emerged that the tender process for the project had only closed on the same date—29 April 2025—indicating that some companies were still in the process of submitting their bids at the time the Ministry claimed contractors had already been selected and mobilised.

In a statement issued later on Tuesday, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Mr. P.J. Makumbe, clarified that no contractors are currently on site, as the tender process is still ongoing.

Makumbe further acknowledged that an officer assigned to manage the Ministry’s social media platforms had posted the inaccurate information without first verifying it with technical officials from the Department of Roads, thereby breaching the Ministry’s Standard Operating Procedures for information verification.

Click here: Pindula WhatsApp Channel
wa.me/channel/0029Vb4GVea90x2nCSDImS1b

He explained that the tender, which was issued on 17 April 2025, officially closed on 29 April 2025 at 11 AM. 

Following the close of the bidding period, an evaluation committee is expected to assess the submissions. 

He added that the results will then be submitted to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for final review and approval before contracts are awarded to successful bidders. Part of the statement reads:

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to unreservedly apologise to members of the public and all its stakeholders for posting a Twitter message containing wrong information on 29 April 2025 at 0918 Hours. 

The Twitter message tagged a story published on 28 April 2025 by the Herald Online, which was headlined: “Victoria Falls contractors on site.” 

The Ministry acknowledges that no contractor is on site, as the tender process is still ongoing.

One of the officers assigned the duty to manage the Ministry’s twitter handle conceded and acknowledged that she breached the internal Standard Operating Procedures of information verification, by not verifying the authenticity of the facts with the technical officials in the Department of Roads, before posting.

The Ministry wishes to set the record straight on the matter as follows: the tender which was issued on 17 April 2025 closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 Hours. 

After the closure of the bidding period, an evaluation committee will sit, whereupon the outcome will be sent to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for oversight of the tender process before awarding the same to successful bidders.

By A Correspondent

A South African citizen working in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, was urgently airlifted back home after falling seriously ill and reportedly being unable to access adequate medical care in Zimbabwe.

The patient was transported by road over a 280-kilometre stretch from Bulawayo to Beitbridge before being flown by helicopter to Limpopo province in South Africa.

The Limpopo Provincial Government confirmed the incident on Monday through a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account. The emergency evacuation underscores the ongoing strain placed on South Africa’s healthcare system by cross-border medical cases.

Upon landing in Limpopo, the unnamed patient was received by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego.

Photos released by provincial authorities show the patient on a stretcher, flanked by the two officials at the helicopter landing site.

“The patient could not receive the necessary medical treatment when he fell ill in Bulawayo,” the Limpopo Government said in the official statement.

The case has reignited longstanding tensions over the burden placed on South Africa’s public hospitals by patients from neighbouring Zimbabwe. The issue continues to stir both political and public debate, as South African facilities grapple with increased demand from foreign nationals seeking medical care.

Recently, a Zimbabwean woman was chased away from Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria West by a group of South African women accusing her of straining the healthcare system. A video of the incident, which quickly went viral, shows the women shouting at the expectant mother and demanding that she return to Zimbabwe for treatment.

The confrontation sparked a public outcry and reignited discourse on xenophobia and healthcare access. The women involved claimed that Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration fails to compensate South Africa for the healthcare services utilized by Zimbabwean nationals.

This is not the first time healthcare pressures between the two countries have made headlines. In August 2022, then-Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba drew international criticism after a video showed her confronting a Zimbabwean patient at Bela Bela Hospital. In the clip, Ramathuba told the patient, “You are killing my health system. It’s not my responsibility to care for patients from Zimbabwe.”

Ramathuba later defended her remarks, stating that the increasing number of patients from neighbouring countries puts “unsustainable pressure” on the provincial healthcare system and budgets.

The latest incident adds another chapter to the complex and emotionally charged issue of regional health migration, with calls growing louder for bilateral solutions between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

By A Correspondent

The City of Harare has called on Mbare residents to cooperate with City Health officials conducting a bedbug (tsikidzi) fumigation campaign, warning that continued resistance could lead to police-assisted access and potential eviction.

In a public health drive launched on 7 April 2025, the City Council targeted 5,450 rooms in the densely populated Mbare Flats for fumigation. As of last week, 64% of the units had been treated, but city authorities reported mounting resistance from some residents unwilling to grant access to their homes.

“We have noted with concern reports that some occupiers of Mbare flats are refusing to open their doors to City Health workers who want to fumigate their premises against bedbugs (tsikidzi),” the city said in a statement on Tuesday.

Officials further warned that continued non-compliance could have serious consequences. “We encourage the residents to allow health workers immediate access to the premises or risk enforcement using police. This will also mean cancelling the current leases since the apartments are owned by the City of Harare.”

“Residents’ health is of utmost importance and the City of Harare will use every available means to gain access for fumigation purposes to protect every resident in Harare,” the statement added.

As the tsikidzi infestation continues to spread, the matter has drawn national attention—not just because of the public health threat, but due to the controversial involvement of top government spokesperson George Charamba.

Instead of focusing on the core health issue, Charamba—Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications—took to X (formerly Twitter) under his handle Jamwanda, appearing to redirect the conversation by linking the fumigation resistance to alleged criminal activity.

“TSIKIDZI BLUES: Just to allay your fears, that vermin will be dealt with decisively soonest. Including those selling bad substances who have been refusing to open their homes to allow for a complete operation. Brace up!!!!” Charamba posted.

His remarks have drawn criticism from some quarters, with observers accusing him of attempting to shift attention away from the serious public health concerns by insinuating that those resisting fumigation are engaged in illegal dealings. Critics argue that conflating tsikidzi control with law enforcement undermines the urgency of addressing the infestation and may further erode trust between residents and authorities.

While the government spokesperson’s comments may have been aimed at encouraging compliance, they have instead highlighted deeper tensions between the state and marginalized communities, raising questions about how seriously the administration is treating the core health crisis.

The City of Harare, meanwhile, maintains that the fumigation operation will proceed—voluntarily or through enforcement—as tsikidzi continue to pose a growing threat to residents’ health.

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Once a gleaming, high-performance Ford Ranger double cab fresh off the lot, the vehicle now lies reduced to a charred and skeletal frame — a grim monument to a cross-border criminal operation gone disastrously wrong. The bodywork is twisted and hollowed out by fire, the dashboard and interior scorched beyond recognition, and the chassis eaten away by heat and decay under a lonely tree in Beitbridge. Where once the powerful pickup might have purred across South African roads, it now sits abandoned, its fate sealed by greed and desperation.

The smugglers — Bester Moyo, Admit Moyo, Freddy Mugabe, and an accomplice still on the run — once believed themselves untouchable as they quietly ferried the stolen Ranger from Boksburg across the Limpopo River under the cover of darkness. Stripped of its accessories and hidden in the bush, the vehicle was methodically dismembered, its parts loaded onto donkey carts and sold piecemeal across Beitbridge. But the syndicate’s luck ran dry.

Beitbridge police, acting on intelligence, arrested the trio on Independence Day while they were attempting to offload the vehicle’s gearbox. According to Chief Superintendent Melusi Ncube, the suspects are now facing charges of motor vehicle theft and appeared in the regional court. Each was granted USD150 bail and will reappear before Magistrate Charity Maphosa on May 8.

The case highlights a broader crisis: a sharp rise in cross-border vehicle smuggling operations, many linked to insurance fraud rings in South Africa. Stolen rental cars are trafficked into Zimbabwe, dismantled, and sold for parts — while fraudulent owners cash in on insurance payouts.

But with intensified patrols and increasing arrests along the Limpopo, authorities warn that the river is no longer the silent accomplice it once was. The burned-out Ranger, now a shell of its former self, is proof that the trail of crime may be long — but justice is catching up.

Harare, Zimbabwe – 1 May 2025

By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has issued an unreserved public apology after publishing incorrect information on its Twitter account, falsely suggesting that a contractor had already been assigned for the high-profile Victoria Falls road project. The erroneous tweet, posted on 29 April 2025 at 0918 hours, quoted a Herald article which implied work had begun — a claim now confirmed as inaccurate.

In a rare show of transparency, the Ministry retracted the statement the same day and clarified that no contractor is currently on site, as the tender process remains ongoing. According to the retraction notice, a Ministry officer responsible for managing the Twitter handle breached internal verification procedures and posted the tweet without cross-checking facts with officials from the Department of Roads.

The statement, signed by Permanent Secretary Eng. P.J. Makumbe, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to correct information and revealed that the tender had only closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 hours. The next step involves evaluation by a committee and oversight by the Special Procurement Oversight Committee.

While some members of the public applauded the honesty, others were far more skeptical. Former Harare Mayor Ben Manyenyeni lauded the Ministry’s candor in a widely shared Facebook post:

“I can be proud of such honesty. This is twenty times better than the silence, lies and propaganda we are always fed. I can live with this sort of sincere approach to issues. Trust restored.”

However, the reactions in the comments painted a much more divided picture:

• Ethan Malibongwe Moyo responded cynically, referencing a previous false claim:
  “October last year they told us Bitumen has been given tender and is now raising funds. I will never trust these goons even with a tooth pick!”
• Tonie Vimbai added in Shona:
  “Apa vamwe tattoo pa site nemichina yedu, or maybe not, we just don’t know.”
  (Translation: “Some people were already seen on-site with machinery — or maybe not, we’re just not sure anymore.”)
• Tapiwa Zivira dismissed the statement as spin:
  “Not necessarily honesty. Damage control, and I suspect, more lies. I also worry so much about the staff member who is being the sacrificial lamb. Can’t trust.”
• Vatete Yeu expressed confusion at the praise:
  “You are proud of what? Tender process is still going on. They are writing as if they’re doing us a favour.”
• Kennedy Masiye hinted at deeper concerns:
  “Some sought of cover up for flouting tender procedures! I am sure more will come out.”

The backlash indicates a trust deficit that even a transparent correction may not easily fix. As the dust settles, observers are keenly watching whether the Ministry will follow through with cleaner processes and more proactive communication in future infrastructure projects.

– END –

The theft of fuel from fire brigade or ambulance service departments is not only plausible—it is a documented and recurring form of corruption globally. A Bulawayo case, in which an official allegedly siphoned 20,000 litres of diesel over three years, reveals how systemic loopholes, weak oversight, and internal protection can enable such crimes. Here’s a brief analysis:

How Easy Is It to Steal Fuel from a Fire Service?

1. Weak Logbook Oversight: If mileage isn’t tracked electronically or the odometer is broken (as in the Bulawayo case), it’s easy to hide extra refueling trips.
2. Internal Collusion: Fuel theft often requires more than one person, such as store clerks, supervisors, or fuel station staff to falsify records.
3. Vehicle Misuse: Using emergency vehicles for personal errands or unofficial purposes can mask excessive fuel consumption.
4. Inadequate Auditing: Periodic or absent audits allow theft to go unnoticed for years.

Plausibility

Highly plausible. Emergency services operate with public trust and urgency, which can be manipulated under the cover of essential service. Fuel allocation is usually based on expected mileage, which is easy to inflate or fake, especially if digital monitoring systems are absent.

Documented Historical Cases

Here are five notable cases globally where fuel theft in emergency or municipal services was exposed:

1. South Africa (2018) – In Durban, municipal workers were arrested for siphoning thousands of litres of diesel from city-owned vehicles. They operated a syndicate involving city ambulances and refuse trucks.
2. Mexico (2019) – Widespread “huachicolero” operations involved siphoning fuel from state-owned Pemex, including stolen supplies intended for municipal vehicles, including fire engines.
3. Russia (2020) – A fire station commander in Rostov-on-Don was arrested for illegally selling fuel intended for fire trucks, using manipulated fuel logs and fake mileage reports.
4. India (2022) – In Bihar, several government vehicles including fire brigade trucks were reported to be part of a fuel theft scam where drivers sold subsidized diesel on the black market.
5. Nigeria (2021) – In Lagos, emergency and municipal vehicle fuel allocations were fraudulently diverted to black market sales, with some implicated staff from fire services.

The Bulawayo case fits a broader pattern seen in many developing and transitional economies where institutional oversight is weak. The use of broken meters, inflated fuel claims, and opaque accountability frameworks creates a conducive environment for such thefts. These cases underscore the need for digitized tracking, transparent audits, and whistleblower protections in public service departments.

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Bulawayo – A massive corruption scandal has rocked the Bulawayo City Council’s Fire and Ambulance Services Department as the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) confirms it has launched an investigation into the alleged theft of over 20,000 litres of diesel—fuel meant for life-saving emergency response vehicles.

At the centre of the investigation is a senior manager in the Ambulance Services division who allegedly exploited a broken speedometer in a designated Command Vehicle—a Toyota Land Cruiser—to siphon fuel over a three-year period. Sources close to the case revealed the vehicle was routinely double-filled without mileage being logged, with fuel later decanted and sold to illegal dealers in Nketa Six suburb.

According to whistleblowers within the council, the manager filled the vehicle with up to 200 litres per week, far exceeding the consumption needs of a vehicle averaging only 40km per day. In stark contrast, fully operational ambulances covering over 300km weekly received less fuel. The discrepancy, insiders allege, was long known within internal circles but never addressed—raising suspicions of protection from high-ranking officials.

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart, responding via X (formerly Twitter), pledged transparency, stating that the internal audit findings would be made public.

The scandal, while shocking, is far from isolated.

Experts note that fuel theft in emergency and municipal services is a recurring form of corruption across the globe. In South Africa, a similar scam in Durban saw city ambulance drivers arrested for siphoning thousands of litres of diesel. In Russia, a fire station commander manipulated fuel logs to resell fuel. From India to Nigeria and Mexico, fuel theft schemes—often involving collusion, falsified records, and broken oversight mechanisms—have siphoned millions of dollars from the public purse.

“Fuel theft from fire or ambulance departments is disturbingly plausible,” said a corruption researcher. “When logbooks are manually kept and internal audits are weak, it creates the perfect storm for long-term siphoning.”

The Bulawayo case has also revealed disturbing operational implications: only 7 of the city’s 30 ambulances remain functional amid reported fuel shortages and breakdowns, while the Command Vehicle implicated in the scam continued to consume a disproportionate share of resources.

ZACC spokesperson Simiso Mlevu confirmed the commission is awaiting the outcome of the council’s internal audit. Meanwhile, the implicated manager remains in service.

As investigations proceed, the scandal raises urgent questions about governance, accountability, and the state of emergency services in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city.- ZimEye

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Barely 5 months after demanding that Botswana citizens must buy him a brand new car, Prophet Andrew Wutaunashe, who is Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s kingmaker, has revealed he has been deserted by large crowds of followers in Botswana — a stunning fallout following a scandal over his demands for a brand-new car from his congregation last Christmas.

Wutaunashe made the announcement during an emotional sermon on Sunday, April 27, 2025- in Francistown, admitting that not only had ordinary church members left him, but also Archbishop Kuleletse, the leading bishop of his Botswana church, had formally cut ties.
In a lengthy and prayer-laden address, Wutaunashe tried to console his remaining flock:

“Archbishop Kuleletse felt that he should leave us,” Wutaunashe said. “I personally thought that he shouldn’t, but he said that he felt that is what God wants him to do… but we might just pray for him; keep on loving him.”
The dramatic collapse in support follows a major exposé by the ZimEye news network, which revealed how Wutaunashe had demanded a brand-new vehicle from his poor Botswana congregation — to be delivered within four months — at a time when he was also condemning Western nations for supposedly lacking compassion for the needy.

In his Christmas sermon last December, Wutaunashe had declared his expectation:
“I know all the bishops love me… so at Easter camp next year, the bishops will give me a car… I won’t tell them what type, otherwise they will be in shock.”

The ZimEye exposé triggered widespread anger, particularly among Botswana citizens, who felt betrayed by a leader they once trusted. Members accused him of exploiting their loyalty while living lavishly at their expense.

Andrew Wutaunashe speaking at the weekend
A Church in Crisis
In his Sunday sermon, Wutaunashe tried to frame the mass desertions as part of a divine process:
“Don’t worry about sons who go away; they will always come back… even Jesus went away from his Father but came back.”
Despite the hopeful rhetoric, the departure of Archbishop Kuleletse is seen as a massive blow to Wutaunashe’s operations in Botswana, a country that was once a stronghold for his regional influence.
The preacher, visibly shaken, launched into a prayer asking for blessings on Kuleletse’s new path and encouraged his remaining followers to rebuild the Francistown church “to a greater later glory.”

Wutaunashe also took the opportunity to pray for the Zimbabwean government, notably for Emmerson Mnangagwa, urging divine intervention to “bring to completion” what he called Mnangagwa’s “work of peace and progress.”
Meanwhile:
Latest revelations suggest that at the time of writing another compounding scandal involving a still to be named son of a bishop who was at the time ofthe desertion having an affair with the wife of another senior church leader.

Looking Ahead
As Wutaunashe struggles to rebuild in Francistown, questions remain about his broader credibility across Southern Africa, especially amid rising scrutiny of self-styled prophets and their financial dealings. Whether he can recover from this scandal remains to be seen.

Tinashe Sambiri

ZANU PF is set to convene a Politburo meeting on Friday, May 2, 2025, as internal party conflicts continue to intensify behind the scenes.

The announcement was made by the party’s Secretary for Information and Publicity, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa, who relayed the notice from Secretary-General Dr. Obert Mpofu.

“The secretary-general of ZANU PF Dr. Obert Mpofu hereby advises all Politburo members that there will be a Politburo meeting on Friday, 2 May 2025 at 1000hrs. The meeting will be held at the permanent home of the revolution, ZANU PF headquarters,” Mutsvangwa stated.

Members are expected to be seated by 9:45 AM. While the official agenda is to address general party business, the meeting comes at a time when factional divisions within the ruling party are reportedly growing.

By A Correspondent

Despite ongoing reports of political repression and economic instability, ZANU PF’s Secretary for Information and Publicity, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa, boldly declared Zimbabwe a secure and promising destination for international investors.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo last week, Mutsvangwa praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, attributing the event’s perceived global success to what he described as the President’s “forward-looking vision.”

“The 65th Edition of ZITF has been a globally successful event because of the visionary leadership of His Excellency President E.D. Mnangagwa,” Mutsvangwa stated.

He claimed Zimbabwe’s appeal to investors lies in its natural endowments and a skilled labour force. “Zimbabwe is a safe destination hub for economic development. Behind our highly productive workforce is a vast stock of natural resources,” he said.

Mutsvangwa also highlighted current partnerships with international firms, singling out U.S.-based Starlink as a symbol of confidence in Zimbabwe’s business environment. “Starlink is operating successfully in the country, providing internet as a product and bridging digital access gaps in both rural and urban areas,” he said.

His remarks, however, come amid widespread criticism of the government’s crackdown on dissent, continued political arrests, and a deteriorating economy—factors many believe undermine the very investment climate Mutsvangwa seeks to promote.

By A Correspondent

Political activist and whistleblower Blessed Geza has launched a stinging attack on Zimbabwe’s ruling elite, accusing businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei of leading a grand-scale looting operation under the protection of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In a no-holds-barred address following the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), Geza alleged that Tagwirei’s meteoric rise to wealth was not the result of enterprise but of state-sanctioned plunder. “People must understand where Tagwirei’s riches came from. He began with one fuel station called Takunda,” Geza said. “Then came Command Agriculture. Turns out, that was public money he never gave back.”

Geza painted a picture of a corruption empire built on the backs of ordinary citizens, with military-linked companies and national assets allegedly handed over to Tagwirei. Among the state resources named were Sandawana Mine, shares in Great Dyke Investments, and firms in financial distress—transferred, according to Geza, with government approval and no accountability.

“He came back later saying he was selling off Kuvimba,” Geza recounted. “Then his own outfit, CBZ Capital, steps in and revalues it at 5.4 billion U.S. dollars. And from that cooked-up figure, he and Mnangagwa walked away with 1.9 billion dollars—corrupt money, no less—through the Mutapa Investment Fund.”

Geza also claimed that Tagwirei was trying to manipulate religious institutions, alleging that the tycoon was now targeting the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for influence through financial donations. He contrasted this with Zimbabwe’s failing education and healthcare systems. “Civil servants are surviving on crumbs,” he said. “Yet someone who never passed Grade Seven walks off with 540 million dollars just for standing next to Mnangagwa. What kind of system is that?”

The outspoken activist called for nationwide mobilization, urging citizens to back striking lecturers and students. “People of Zimbabwe, it’s time to rise,” he declared. “Shutdown the country so Mnangagwa is removed. Let’s stand together and rebuild our nation.”

Geza assured listeners that plans are already in motion to hold corrupt elites accountable. “Make no mistake—action is happening,” he insisted. “We’re moving carefully to avoid unnecessary bloodshed. Our progressive forces are already active on the ground.”

At the time of writing, neither President Mnangagwa nor Tagwirei has issued any response to the damning claims.

By A Correspondent

A congress convened by the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) was abruptly disrupted earlier this week after government agents stormed the gathering in a bid to intimidate participants and derail proceedings.

Held at St Martin Mission in Jotsholo, Lupane district, the meeting drew delegates from across the country to discuss the dire state of education and teachers’ welfare.

However, ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure revealed that plainclothes state security operatives attempted to infiltrate and block the event.

“Our congress was almost shut down by state security agents,” Masaraure told Southern Eye. “They insisted on being part of the meeting, and seven of them forced their way in.”

The situation was salvaged thanks to swift legal intervention. ARTUZ’s lawyer, Doug Coltart, filed for an urgent interdict and notified the police, allowing the congress to proceed under tight scrutiny. Despite the heavy presence of state operatives, Masaraure said the delegates remained resolute.

“Delegates were not deterred, and we hope the State agents delivered our unfiltered demands to President Emmerson Mnangagwa in real time,” he said defiantly.

During the congress, teachers from rural areas vowed to escalate their campaign for fair wages. Masaraure confirmed that educators nationwide are preparing to launch protests when schools reopen. “Rural-based teachers will picket at every school in the country on the opening day. We are demanding salaries that reflect our value,” he stated.

The attempted interference by government operatives underscores growing tensions between the state and labour unions, as frustrations mount over poor working conditions and declining education standards in Zimbabwe.

By A Correspondent

Former Chiredzi Ward 3 councillor and ZANU PF activist Tarusenga Makamba remains behind bars after being denied bail last Wednesday, facing charges of inciting public unrest.

Magistrate Tendai Mutamba ruled against releasing Makamba, who has now spent nearly two weeks in remand prison. He is scheduled to return to court next Wednesday.

The charges stem from a voice note Makamba allegedly circulated in a ZANU PF WhatsApp group named Nhakayedu, in which he is said to have urged members to brace for change—just days before activist Blessed “Bombshell” Geza had called for nationwide demonstrations.

Authorities claim the message, which included the phrase “Chikomo che Wedza chopfungaira”, carried subversive undertones and was meant to stoke political unrest. Prosecutors argue the timing and content of the voice note linked Makamba to the protest plans.

Makamba is being represented by human rights lawyer Ross Chavi from Zimbabwe Human Rights Lawyers, who has yet to comment publicly on the court’s decision.

By A Correspondent

A South African citizen working in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, was rushed back home after falling seriously ill and reportedly being unable to access adequate medical care in Zimbabwe.

The patient was transported by road over a 280-kilometre stretch from Bulawayo to Beitbridge before being flown by helicopter to Limpopo province in South Africa.

The Limpopo Provincial Government confirmed the incident on Monday through a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account.

The emergency evacuation underscores the ongoing strain placed on South Africa’s healthcare system by cross-border medical cases.

Upon arriving in Limpopo, the unnamed patient was received by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego.

Photos released by provincial authorities show the patient on a stretcher, flanked by the two officials at the helicopter landing site.

“The patient could not receive the necessary medical treatment when he fell ill in Bulawayo,” the Limpopo Government said in the official statement.

The case has reignited longstanding tensions over the burden placed on South Africa’s public hospitals by patients from neighbouring Zimbabwe. The issue continues to stir both political and public debate, as South African facilities grapple with increased demand from foreign nationals seeking medical care.

Recently, a Zimbabwean woman was chased away from Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria West by a group of South African women accusing her of straining the healthcare system. A video of the incident, which quickly went viral, shows the women shouting at the expectant mother and demanding that she return to Zimbabwe for treatment.

The confrontation sparked a public outcry and reignited discourse on xenophobia and healthcare access. The women involved claimed that Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration fails to compensate South Africa for the healthcare services utilized by Zimbabwean nationals.

This is not the first time healthcare pressures between the two countries have made headlines. In August 2022, then-Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba drew international criticism after a video showed her confronting a Zimbabwean patient at Bela Bela Hospital. In the clip, Ramathuba told the patient, “You are killing my health system. It’s not my responsibility to care for patients from Zimbabwe.”

Ramathuba later defended her remarks, stating that the increasing number of patients from neighbouring countries puts “unsustainable pressure” on the provincial healthcare system and budgets.

The latest incident adds another chapter to the complex and emotionally charged issue of regional health migration, with calls growing louder for bilateral solutions between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Crime and Courts Reporter-Two police officers who were nabbed collecting bribes on Independence Day in Harare have been denied bail by Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa.

The two are Rudo Chirengendure and Nyasha Mupandira, whose video, while allegedly collecting a bribe, went viral on social media.

They are being charged with criminal abuse of office.

Gofa denied the two bail, noting that they are likely to get a custodial sentence if convicted.

The magistrate also said the two were likely to interfere with witnesses and abscond because they are facing a serious offence.

Through their lawyers, the cops demanded proof to confirm that the viral video was not AI-generated.

But the Investigating Officer Munatsi Saineti said the two had a weak defence.

He nailed the two, telling the court that the two were seen releasing an offender after receiving bribe money when, by law, they were supposed to take him to the police camp.

Allegations are that on Independence Day, the two accused persons, who are all serving police officers, were deployed at Parkade rank situated at the intersection of Nelson Mandela Street and Rezende Street to patrol and arrest illegal money changers, touts and illegal vendors.

“Whilst in the exercise of their duties, accused one and accused two were captured on camera receiving money as consideration to release a suspect who was arrested and was in handcuffs.

“The two accused persons then removed handcuffs from a female suspect and released her which is contrary to their duties as public officers. “

Unless one is a foreign spy themselves, what type of a President drives in a foreign made vehicle that can be easily switched off via remote control in London? Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived at the heroes acre in a British made vehicle to bury two top military generals who’ve died within days of each other. Their deaths, seem coincidental to a long trail of sudden departures of top personnel since 2017.

In the picture above, Mnangagwa, accompanied by his wife Auxillia Mnangagwa, officiates at the National Heroes Acre double burial. The nation lost Brigadier General (Retd) Victor Rungani and the Director (Retd) in the President’s Department, Cde Walter Basopo. The two gallant sons of the soil sacrificed their all in the fight for the liberation of our beloved motherland. After Independence, Cde Victor Rungani whose Chimurenga names were Cde Nyoka and Cde Victor Chikudo and Cde Walter Basopo whose Chimurenga name was Cde Gerry Dzasukwa joined the security sector, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and President’s Department respectively, where they distinguished themselves with honour and distinction.

Just a few days ago, Defence Forces Commander Valerio Sibanda was also caught on camera shamelessly driving foreign made brand new cars. How does Valerio Sibanda feel while driving in a hoard of 20 flashy cars that’s forcefully descending onto a (ZANU PF party-card-selling) Trade Fair @ZITF1 that has no single local product on display, in an economy that seems producing only death-certificates of top military generals since 2017? The latest two senior military generals have died one after the other in a matter of days, both of them soon after being fired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Soon after the death of another top Valerio Sibanda colleague, a few years ago, the head of State accused by former First Lady Grace Mugabe as a mercenary, was captured on camera waving a piece of paper which he said is new evidence “discovered” on a later date that diagnoses the death of Perance Shiri as that of COVID-19. READ THE ZIMEYE 👇 ARTICLE.

By James Gwati- The ongoing strike by University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturers has dealt a major blow to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration, exposing its failure to address the longstanding grievances of academic staff and forcing it into a belated response.

Presidential spokesperson George Charamba acknowledged the legitimacy of the lecturers’ demands, a rare admission that signals mounting pressure on the government.

Writing on X (formerly Twitter) under his handle Jamwanda, Charamba revealed that Mnangagwa, who is the Chancellor of all state universities, had long approved a plan to improve lecturers’ conditions — but its implementation was stalled by bureaucratic inertia.

“YOU HAVE BEEN HEARD!!! Government is addressing the welfare of university lecturers. Just as well they raised the matter publicly,” Charamba wrote. “It turns out the Chancellor, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, had long approved recommendations which should have put this matter well behind us. Inertia gathered somewhere, and the OPC [Office of the President and Cabinet] will cause movement. Thank you comrades for acting responsibly!”

Charamba’s remarks followed growing unrest at UZ, where members of the Association of University Teachers (AUT) have suspended lectures and vowed to escalate the strike to all 14 state universities within 10 days if their demands are not met.

AUT is demanding a restoration of salaries to pre-October 2018 levels, when a junior lecturer earned approximately US$2,250.

Today, they take home as little as US$230, a steep decline that has crippled their ability to survive amid Zimbabwe’s deepening economic crisis.

Professor Obvious Vengeyi, the AUT spokesperson, told New Zimbabwe that UZ management has consistently refused to engage in dialogue with lecturers, leaving them with no option but to down tools. 

The frustration boiled over when Professor Vengeyi and two colleagues were arrested on campus two weeks ago for staging a peaceful protest. 

They were detained overnight and fined US$15 each before being released.

Following the arrests, the lecturers secured a High Court order barring police from interfering with their protests. 

In response, they declared a two-day suspension of all lectures last week, intensifying pressure on both the university administration and the government.

This crisis reflects a broader pattern of neglect and underfunding in Zimbabwe’s higher education sector, where university lecturers across the country have battled declining salaries, worsening working conditions, and lack of institutional support for over a decade.

During the Government of National Unity (2009–2013), lecturers’ salaries were stabilized, often pegged in U.S. dollars, offering a brief respite. 

However, following the introduction of the local RTGS dollar and the collapse of parity with the U.S. dollar in 2019, academic salaries were severely eroded. 

Despite repeated promises by successive ministers of higher and tertiary education, and by Mnangagwa himself, conditions have continued to deteriorate.

Many experienced academics have either emigrated or left academia altogether, creating a brain drain that threatens the quality of education in Zimbabwe. 

Those who remain often moonlight in private institutions or take on consultancy work to supplement their incomes.

The current strike at UZ is not an isolated act of defiance, but part of a larger wave of discontent across the public sector, where teachers, nurses, and civil servants have also protested stagnant wages and deteriorating standards of living.

The lecturers’ bold action has publicly embarrassed the Mnangagwa administration, highlighting its failure to prioritize education despite repeated rhetoric about modernization and innovation.

By Crime and Courts Reporter- An AirForce of Zimbabwe detail has lost its car and property worth US$4500 to armed Robbers who had picked them up as passengers.

Takawira Gutu, 44, picked up five passengers, including three males and two females, at the corner of Julius Nyerere and Robert Mugabe Road in Chitungwiza.

He was driving a silver Honda Fit, registration AEJ 3435.

One female passenger disembarked at Chinhamo turn-off, and another female passenger indicated that she wanted to disembark at corner Seke Road and Delport Road bus stop.

When Takawira reached the bus stop, the female passenger disembarked and that is when the two passengers who were seated at the back seat grabbed him and pointed a knife at his neck.

They pulled him to the back seat, tied his legs and hands with a shoe lace. One of the robbers took charge of the vehicle and drove towards Epworth.

When they passed Manyame Air Base, the vehicle stopped and the accused persons took the other male passenger’s cellphone, USD$7 and then threw him out of the moving vehicle.

The vehicle stopped at a place unknown to Takawira and refuelled. The two robbers stabbed Takawira on the back and on the palms using a knife.

Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the case.
“Police are investigating a robbery and car theft cases involving a motorist who offered transport to unsuspecting passengers,” said Insp Chakanza.
“They dumped him at a secluded place along Chiremba Road near Ruwa River and drove away with complainant’s vehicle. Complainant managed to untie himself and sought help at a nearby house.
“He was assisted to make a report at ZRP Epworth by a well wisher.
“He lost his vehicle, Huawei Y7 cellphone, Samsung laptop, laptop bag, two pairs of shoes, three neck ties, a black sweater and USD$197.
“Total value stolen is USD$4500. “Complainant was referred to Chitungwiza Hospital for medical assistance,” said Insp Chakanza.

By Munacho Gwamanda-President Mnangagwa’s close ally, and Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe has found himself at the centre of a tribal controversy after reprimanding Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart for hosting a meeting with self-proclaimed Ndebele monarch, “King” Bulelani Lobhengula Khumalo, during the Easter holidays.

The meeting, which took place at the Bulawayo Mayor’s Parlour, reportedly saw Mayor Coltart formally address Bulelani as “King Bulelani”, a gesture that has triggered backlash from government officials, including Minister Garwe.

In a statement issued on 23 April 2025, Garwe reiterated the government’s longstanding position rejecting Bulelani’s claim to the throne of King Lobengula, describing it as unlawful and without constitutional basis.
“For the avoidance of doubt,” Garwe said, “the Zimbabwe Constitution does not provide for kingship. His claim is baseless, unfounded, and a legal nullity.” He cited Section 283(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 20) Act of 2013, read together with Sections 3(1) and (2) of the Traditional Leaders Act [Chapter 29:17], which stipulates that the appointment, removal, and suspension of Chiefs must be done by the President on the recommendation of the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs, via the National Council of Chiefs and the responsible Minister, and in accordance with prevailing traditional customs.

Garwe warned that any engagement with Bulelani undermines constitutional processes and misleads the public.

He further condemned Bulelani as a “fraudulent impostor,” calling on both the Mayor’s office and the residents of Bulawayo to reject his claim and public appearances.

The Minister demanded an explanation from Mayor Coltart regarding the circumstances under which Bulelani was invited and received.

He also questioned whether the invitation had been sanctioned, either explicitly or implicitly, by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works or any other authorised entity.

The incident has sparked fresh debate on identity, legitimacy, and cultural recognition in Zimbabwe, once again bringing unresolved historical tensions between central government and Matabeleland into sharp focus.

South Africa- The three police officers who went missing last week have been found dead, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has confirmed.

The bodies of Constable Keamogetswe Buys, Constable Boipelo Senoge, and Constable Cebekhulu Linda were among the five bodies recovered from the Hennops River.

The three cops’ bodies were identified by their families at the Tshwane mortuary.

Speaking during a media briefing at the river on Tuesday night, Masemola said
“It has been a difficult six days for members of the South African Police Service and affected families, as we searched everywhere for our three missing police officers,” Masemola said.
The trio was last seen in the early hours of Thursday at a petrol station near the Grasmere Toll Plaza on the N1 in Gauteng. 
Their vehicle, a Volkswagen Polo hatchback with registration number JCL 401 FS, along with their cellphones and tracking device, were switched off after they left the station.

Masemola said a high-level team of investigators had worked tirelessly across Gauteng, the Free State, and Limpopo following all possible leads.
 
Their search eventually led to an area along the N1 highway, stretching from the Grasmere Toll Plaza past the Buccleuch interchange and onto John Vorster Drive in Centurion.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am unfortunately not the bearer of good news this evening,” said Masemola. 
“We had hoped to find our three police officers safe, unharmed, and alive, but this is not the case.”
He confirmed that five bodies were found in the river, including the three missing officers and two others. One of the other victims was identified as an administrative clerk attached to the Lyttelton Police Station.
Masemola detailed how investigators, with the assistance of the SAPS drone unit, the cybercrime and crime intelligence divisions, the Hawks, Gauteng Traffic Airwing, and Bidvest Protea Coin Airwing, made the breakthrough on Monday.
“On Monday, we found vehicle parts believed to be from a VW Polo along the N1 near the Hennops River. That led us to a Renault Kangoo panel van at the riverbank,” he said.

Divers from SAPS and the City of Tshwane began searching the area, recovering two bodies—the driver of the panel van, later confirmed to be the SAPS admin clerk, and Constable Senoge. 

As night fell, the search was suspended due to the lack of visibility and safety concerns.

The following morning, the third body, believed to be that of Constable Linda, was recovered.

Later, a fourth decomposed body was found, and identification efforts are ongoing. IOL

By A Correspondent

A lion that had been terrorising villagers in the Mutsago area of Marange, Mutare District, was shot and killed by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) rangers on Sunday night, putting an end to a wave of fear that had gripped the community.

The lion, which is believed to have strayed from the nearby Save Conservancy, had already killed four cattle over a three-week period. Villagers had been living in fear, with many avoiding moving around after dark.

ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo told State media that tracking the lion had proven difficult due to its behaviour.

“After days of trauma and panic within the community, we finally managed to eliminate the problem animal. It had killed four cattle over the past three weeks,” said Farawo.

“Lions are nocturnal, so they move at night, making it challenging for us to track and eliminate the animal quickly,” he explained.

Farawo thanked the local community and various stakeholders for their cooperation in bringing the situation under control.

“We would like to extend our gratitude to the community for collaborating with us and working closely with our team. We also appreciate the support received from the Mutare Rural District Council, the Civil Protection Unit, traditional leaders, and councillors in the area. Through our collective efforts, we have restored peace in the area,” he said.

This incident follows a string of wildlife-related dangers reported in Manicaland Province. In recent weeks, stray buffaloes in Mutare and Buhera districts injured six people, including a schoolchild. One of those buffaloes was also put down in Marange to prevent further attacks.

Spike in Gun Violence Against Police Casts Tragic Shadow Over Recovery of Missing SAPS Officers

South Africa is grappling with a disturbing surge in gun violence targeting law enforcement officers—an issue tragically underscored by the recent deaths of three police constables whose bodies were recovered from the Hennops River this week.

Since 1995, gun crime against South African Police Service (SAPS) officers has soared by over 400%, according to internal SAPS data and civil society research. In 1995, fewer than 50 police officers were fatally shot in the line of duty. Today, that figure regularly exceeds 100 annually, with officers facing increasingly militarized and coordinated criminal networks.

On Tuesday night, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed that the bodies of Constables Keamogetswe Buys, Boipelo Senoge, and Cebekhulu Linda—who disappeared last Thursday—were among five corpses recovered from the river. All three had been identified by their families at the Tshwane mortuary.

“It has been a difficult six days for members of the SAPS and the affected families,” Masemola said during a media briefing. “We searched everywhere for our three missing police officers.”

The officers were last seen at a petrol station near the Grasmere Toll Plaza on the N1 in Gauteng, just hours before their phones and vehicle tracking systems were mysteriously disabled.

A multi-provincial investigation team combed Gauteng, the Free State, and Limpopo, eventually narrowing their search to an area along the N1 highway stretching past the Buccleuch interchange and onto John Vorster Drive in Centurion. The discovery of vehicle parts near the Hennops River led officers to a panel van and a grim scene.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am unfortunately not the bearer of good news this evening,” Masemola said. “We had hoped to find our three police officers safe, unharmed, and alive, but this is not the case.”

With assistance from SAPS drone units, cybercrime specialists, the Hawks, and airwing units from both Gauteng Traffic and Bidvest Protea Coin, search efforts recovered five bodies in total. Among them was an administrative clerk from the Lyttelton Police Station and another yet to be identified.

The violence that claimed the lives of Constables Buys, Senoge, and Linda is part of a broader, alarming trend. Police watchdogs have long warned that South Africa’s frontline officers are being targeted with impunity. Experts link the rise in police killings to growing access to illegal firearms, organized crime syndicates, and declining trust in state authority.

Masemola stressed the commitment of SAPS to hold those responsible to account: “These were not just officers—they were sons, daughters, protectors of their communities. This rise in brutal attacks on our police is a national crisis.”

Blessed Geza Exposes Alleged $1.9 Billion Corruption Scandal Tied to Kudakwashe Tagwirei and Emmerson Mnangagwa

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | 29 April 2025

BULAWAYO – In an explosive revelation made on the aftermath of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), activist and whistleblower Cde Blessed Geza accused businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei of amassing unprecedented wealth through state-sponsored corruption, surpassing telecommunications mogul Strive Masiyiwa—despite having not a single product to showcase.

Speaking publicly on Tuesday, Geza detailed what he described as a systematic looting scheme involving military-owned companies, state assets, and debt write-offs orchestrated with the full knowledge and support of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

“You need to know how Tagwirei made money. First of all, he started with one service station called Takunda,” Geza began. “Soon after that, we heard of Command Agriculture. We later discovered it wasn’t his money—it was government money he never returned.”

According to Geza, Tagwirei’s wealth ballooned through the appropriation of government and army-linked firms, including platinum interests under Great Dyke Investments (GDI), the Sandawana emerald mine, and entities under liquidation. He alleged Tagwirei accrued a staggering USD900 million in unsecured debt and later “offset” it by transferring shares in Kuvimba Mining House—an entity he claimed was fraudulently revalued and used to erase liabilities without government receiving actual cash.

By Munacho Gwamanda-Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe has found himself at the centre of a tribal controversy after reprimanding Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart for hosting a meeting with self-proclaimed Ndebele monarch, “King” Bulelani Lobhengula Khumalo, during the Easter holidays.

The meeting, which took place at the Bulawayo Mayor’s Parlour, reportedly saw Mayor Coltart formally address Bulelani as “King Bulelani”, a gesture that has triggered backlash from government officials, including Minister Garwe.

In a statement issued on 23 April 2025, Garwe reiterated the government’s longstanding position rejecting Bulelani’s claim to the throne of King Lobengula, describing it as unlawful and without constitutional basis.
“For the avoidance of doubt,” Garwe said, “the Zimbabwe Constitution does not provide for kingship. His claim is baseless, unfounded, and a legal nullity.” He cited Section 283(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 20) Act of 2013, read together with Sections 3(1) and (2) of the Traditional Leaders Act [Chapter 29:17], which stipulates that the appointment, removal, and suspension of Chiefs must be done by the President on the recommendation of the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs, via the National Council of Chiefs and the responsible Minister, and in accordance with prevailing traditional customs.

Garwe warned that any engagement with Bulelani undermines constitutional processes and misleads the public.

He further condemned Bulelani as a “fraudulent impostor,” calling on both the Mayor’s office and the residents of Bulawayo to reject his claim and public appearances.

The Minister demanded an explanation from Mayor Coltart regarding the circumstances under which Bulelani was invited and received.

He also questioned whether the invitation had been sanctioned, either explicitly or implicitly, by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works or any other authorised entity.

The incident has sparked fresh debate on identity, legitimacy, and cultural recognition in Zimbabwe, once again bringing unresolved historical tensions between central government and Matabeleland into sharp focus.

By Crime and Courts Reporter-President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has extended the mandatory retirement age for judges from 65 to 70 years, triggering fears that the move is part of a broader strategy to entrench his grip on power through a compliant judiciary.

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) announced that the extension, which comes into effect on 1 May 2025, was enacted through Statutory Instrument 42 of 2025, known as the Judicial Service (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (No. 3). The regulations were officially published last Friday.

The new rules stipulate that any judge appointed on pensionable terms before the effective date may retire at 65 but can opt to continue serving until 70 with full pension.

Those appointed after 1 May 2025 will have a fixed retirement age of 70. The Paymaster is now required to furnish the JSC annually with a list of judges nearing retirement age.

Judges may still voluntarily retire from age 60 after giving three months’ notice, and the JSC may also force retirement for permanent medical unfitness or inefficiency due to non-medical factors.

While the JSC says the move aligns with international trends and aims to retain judicial expertise, critics view it as a calculated political manoeuvre.

They argue it will allow Mnangagwa to retain loyal judges in key positions, especially as he eyes a controversial extension of his presidency beyond the constitutional limit of two terms.

The move has reignited concerns about the ruling Zanu PF party’s long-standing practice of using the judiciary to consolidate political power.

Since independence in 1980, Zimbabwe’s courts have played a controversial role in legitimising executive decisions and suppressing dissent.

Under former president Robert Mugabe and now Mnangagwa, the judiciary has often been accused of lacking independence, particularly in electoral disputes and cases involving opposition leaders and activists.

In recent years, the Constitutional Court has repeatedly dismissed challenges to Mnangagwa’s contested election victories, and government critics have frequently faced harsh sentences in politically sensitive trials.

Judicial appointments have also drawn criticism for allegedly favouring individuals with ties to the ruling elite.

Mnangagwa, who rose to power via a military-assisted transition in 2017, has faced increasing internal and external pressure over democratic backsliding and human rights abuses.

With murmurs within Zanu PF about succession and factional tension mounting, the judiciary could once again become a battleground for power retention.

The timing of the retirement age extension has therefore raised alarm bells within opposition and civil society circles, who see it as a prelude to legal manoeuvring aimed at removing constitutional barriers to a third term.

By A Correspondent

Chirundu Border Post is currently a hotspot of unrest as tensions escalate between Zambian and Zimbabwean nationals.

Zambian citizens have staged a protest, blocking Zimbabweans from entering Zambia in a show of defiance against perceived unequal treatment at the border.

This follows a series of arrests by Zambian immigration authorities targeting Zimbabwean nationals attempting to cross without proper documentation. In contrast, Zambians have reportedly been entering Zimbabwe without similar scrutiny or consequences.

Zimbabwean nationals claim they are being forced to pay exorbitant sums—up to 24,000 Kwacha (around USD 800)—to secure their release when detained. The rising frustration over what many view as harassment and exploitation erupted into open protest today, with Zimbabweans confronting the perceived injustice.

Adding to the unrest, Zambian vendors have also joined the protests, alleging that Zimbabwean immigration officials have denied them entry to sell their goods, further straining the cross-border relations.

By Tinashe Sambiri

Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of deliberately refusing to address Zimbabwe’s worsening economic and social crisis, claiming he benefits from the continued chaos.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, Chamisa condemned the government’s failure to provide basic services such as clean water, describing the current state of urban infrastructure as a clear sign of leadership collapse.

“TANKS OF LEADERSHIP FAILURE… 45 years after Independence, Zimbabweans still carry buckets for water in towns and cities,” said Chamisa. “Borehole bush pumps now dot our urban areas—clear proof of a government that has abandoned its people.”

He criticised the government’s inaction and accused those in power of turning a blind eye to the suffering of citizens while reaping personal gain from the dysfunction.

“Every water tank you see in our towns is not a sign of progress. They are symbols of leadership ineptitude,” he said. “Those in power refuse to fix these basics because they profit from chaos.”

Chamisa also highlighted the dire conditions in rural areas, where communities continue to rely on unsafe water sources decades after independence.

“Meanwhile, our rural communities drink from open wells and rivers, decades after the promise of Independence. Prehistoric maladies like cholera and tsikidzi stalk our communities,” he said.

Despite the grim picture, Chamisa expressed hope for change and laid out his vision for a better Zimbabwe.

“But #JustImagine a New Great Zimbabwe! A Zimbabwe where every home has safe, clean water. Where cities are supplied by modern dams. Where precision agriculture flourishes all year, powered by smart irrigation,” he said.

He concluded by calling for transformative leadership: “A green, modern Zimbabwe where dignity is restored and leadership serves the people. With new leadership, all is possible.”

Chamisa’s remarks come amid growing public discontent over collapsing infrastructure, recurring disease outbreaks, and deepening poverty across the country.

By A Correspondent

In a precedent-setting judgment from the High Court of Zimbabwe, Justice Joel Mambara has awarded $25,000 in damages to Dr. Viola Dhudhla, a respected elder in the AFM Church and retired lecturer from Great Zimbabwe University.

The payout comes after Dhudhla successfully sued Euginia Machaya, her husband’s lover, for interfering in her decades-long marriage.

The claim, originally filed for $50,000, cited emotional distress and humiliation caused by Machaya’s involvement with Dhudhla’s husband, Augustus Ratidzo Machingura — a war veteran and sugarcane farmer based in Chiredzi.

The ruling, one of the largest adultery awards in Zimbabwe to date, breaks previous compensation records, with Justice Mambara acknowledging the severe emotional and social consequences Dhudhla endured. He also ordered Machaya to cover the legal expenses associated with the case.

According to Dhudhla’s testimony, her marriage of 41 years began to unravel after Machaya entered the picture. She described how her husband systematically stripped her of both emotional and financial rights. He repossessed her Mitsubishi Colt vehicle and replaced it with a Toyota Allion for Machaya. Further, he removed Dhudhla from their joint business accounts, replacing her with Machaya as a signatory, and excluded her and their descendants from a family medical aid scheme—enrolling Machaya, her children from a previous relationship, and the couple’s two new children instead.

Dhudhla detailed the emotional torment she suffered, likening the betrayal to being stabbed in the heart. She revealed that the stress of the ordeal aggravated her chronic health issues, including diabetes and hypertension. Despite her frail condition, she was forced to seek court-ordered maintenance, which Machingura repeatedly evaded—eventually leading to his arrest.

Justice Mambara allocated $16,000 of the damages for contumelia, referring to the indignity and psychological harm Dhudhla faced, and $9,000 for the breakdown of marital companionship. He also expressed disappointment at Machaya’s apparent lack of remorse for her role in destabilizing the long-standing marriage and contributing to the family’s disintegration.

Dr. Dhudhla was represented by attorney Pauline Chimwanda of Saratoga Makausi Law Chambers, who helped bring the emotionally charged case to a close.

By A Correspondent

Questions are mounting over the implications for judicial efficiency and competence following the Judicial Service Commission’s (JSC) decision to increase the retirement age for judicial officers from 65 to 70 years. The change, enacted through Statutory Instrument 42 of 2025—Judicial Service (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (No. 3)—was published last Friday and will come into effect on May 1.

Implemented with the approval of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, the new provision aligns with Section 17 of the Judicial Service Act. It introduces two retirement pathways: officers appointed before May 1 can choose to retire at 65 or extend to 70 on full pension, while those appointed from that date onward will have 70 as their set pensionable age.

“Subject to section 17 of the Act, those reaching 65 may continue working up to 70, but anything beyond 65 will be regarded as early retirement unless otherwise approved,” the statutory instrument states.

The regulations mandate that each year on June 1, the Paymaster must furnish the JSC with a list of members approaching retirement age within the upcoming year. It further empowers the Commission to approve annual extensions for officers aged 65, provided they do not serve beyond 70.

Critics argue that extending the tenure of aging judicial officers may compromise the overall dynamism and performance of the judiciary. “There’s a fine line between retaining experience and risking stagnation,” said a legal analyst who preferred to remain anonymous. “We must ask whether this change is about sustaining justice or simply delaying succession.”

Under the amended regulations, early retirement is permitted from age 60, provided a three-month notice is submitted and approved by the JSC. The Commission also retains the right to mandate early retirement based on medical incapacity or inefficiency unrelated to physical or mental infirmity.

A senior official within the judiciary, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed mixed feelings: “While institutional memory is critical, we can’t ignore the growing concerns over delayed judgments and declining productivity among some senior judges.”

By A Correspondent

ZANU PF has confirmed a lineup of ten candidates who will compete in the party’s primary elections for the Insiza North parliamentary seat, which was left vacant following the passing of sitting MP Farai Taruvinga.

Taruvinga, a long-serving member of the ruling party, died in March 2025 at the age of 54 after a prolonged battle with cancer. He had held the seat since 2018.

Party officials convened on Saturday at the Insiza District Office, where they announced that all ten aspiring candidates had successfully satisfied the party’s vetting requirements and would proceed to the internal elections scheduled for 3 May 2025.

“The approved candidates are Dr Qhubani Moyo, Nkosana Mthunzi, Ernest Ncube, Lindelwe Ndlovu, Clever Moyo, Clever Sibanda, Nkosilomusa Langa, Delani Moyo, Davison Moyo, and Sifiso Mpofu,” ZANU PF confirmed in a statement released over the weekend.

The meeting drew senior ZANU PF figures and local leadership, underscoring the high stakes of the upcoming by-election in what is considered a stronghold for the party.

This contest is expected to be a fiercely competitive one, as prominent figures within the party position themselves to take over the reins in Insiza North.

Chirundu— Business ground to a halt on Monday as the usually bustling Chirundu border crossing descended into chaos following mass protests by both Zambian and Zimbabwean nationals.

Reports say that Zambian nationals on Monday reportedly blocked Zimbabweans from entering Zambia, accusing them of unfair advantages and illegal entry.

The blockade sparked retaliatory protests by Zimbabweans, who claim they have been subjected to harassment, arbitrary arrests, and extortion by Zambian immigration officials.

According to border sources, Zimbabweans caught without proper documentation are being detained and allegedly forced to pay as much as 24,000 Kwacha (approximately US$800) to secure their release. 

Meanwhile, they argue, undocumented Zambians have been entering Zimbabwe with minimal scrutiny or punishment.

The volatile situation escalated when Zimbabwean immigration officers reportedly turned away a group of Zambian vendors attempting to cross into Zimbabwe. 

This prompted Zambians to join the protests in anger, further deepening the standoff.

Witnesses say traffic at the key commercial crossing was paralyzed for several hours as demonstrators from both sides exchanged accusations of exploitation and discrimination.

The demonstrations, which began as a standoff over immigration grievances, are the latest flare-up in deteriorating relations between the two southern African neighbours.

The tension comes in the wake of a diplomatic spat ignited by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent public attack on his Zambian counterpart, President Hakainde Hichilema, during a high-level meeting in Russia. 

Mnangagwa accused Hichilema of pandering to Western interests, a move widely interpreted as a bullying tactic that has further strained already fragile bilateral ties.

By Crime and Courts Reporter- Two senior Douglas Mwonzora-led Movement for Democratic Change party members have been arrested for US$22,000 fraud.

Chengetai Guta and Tapiwa Mashakada appeared before Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki on Monday, who remanded them out of custody.

Bail was not an issue since they were coming from home.

According to the State, in September 2023, the complainant, Denmark Training Services, approached MDC offices in Harare intending to lease a commercial stand, number 18168 Belvedere, after hearing that it belonged to the party.

It is alleged that the complainant spoke with Mashakada at the MDC offices, who confirmed that the stand was indeed owned by the party, prompting the complainant’s interest in becoming a tenant.

“The complainant was told to wait for an answer since the third accused (Mashakada) wanted to be given permission to lease the stand from the second accused (Mwonzora).

“However, the third accused was given the permission by the second accused to lease the stand, and a lease agreement was written between the parties after the complainant paid money to the tune of US$22,000 and was given some receipts.

“After paying the required amount, the complainant moved on to occupy the stand but mistakenly occupied the wrong stand that is, he occupied the stand belonging to Croco Holdings.

“When the complainant was starting to develop the stand, he was approached by Croco Holdings personnel and was informed that the stand belonged to them, not MDC, and was instructed to stop developing the stand,” the State alleges.

The court was informed that the complainant notified the accused about this issue and had a meeting with Guta and Mwonzora. It was after this meeting that he realized he had gone to the wrong stand number.

Further allegations state that when the complainant later attempted to go to the correct stand for development, he discovered it was already occupied by another individual.

“The complainant informed the accused about the situation and was told to occupy the stand on May 1, 2024, after removing the person who had taken up residence there, which was contrary to their agreement that stated the lease would begin on October 1, 2023.

“The accused collected money from the complainant knowing full well that there was another tenant at the stand and that they had no lease with the City of Harare.

“On May 1, 2024, the complainant went to the stand intending to start development, only to find that it was still occupied.

“Upon trying to remove the current occupant, Guta ordered him not to enter the premises. He was verbally informed that they had cancelled the lease agreement and directed to seek reimbursement for his payment, prompting the complainant to file a police report,” read court papers.

Investigations revealed that the lease between the City of Harare and the MDC was cancelled on August 20, 2023; therefore, by the time the accused entered into an agreement with the complainant, their lease agreement had long been terminated.

The response from the City of Harare, attached to the request regarding the status of the leased stand, stated that the land belongs to the council, and no other party has the legal right to deal or transact with the property.

By A Correspondent

Walter Basopo, a longtime intelligence operative accused of coordinating covert terror operations on behalf of the late former President Robert Mugabe and the ruling ZANU PF party, has been declared a national hero following his death in South Africa on Tuesday.

Basopo, who held a senior position in the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), played a key role in executing political repression strategies that propped up Mugabe’s decades-long rule and later supported President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s consolidation of power. From orchestrating crackdowns on opposition figures to coordinating covert operations that targeted dissenters, Basopo operated in the shadows of ZANU PF’s most controversial and violent political campaigns.

Despite his controversial legacy, state officials oversaw the airlifting of his body from Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare to his rural home in Gutu on Sunday. The government announced a detailed itinerary for his body to lie in state at various locations before burial at the National Heroes Acre—Zimbabwe’s highest honor.

“Cde Basopo’s body is being carried to Gutu, Zvinatsa Primary School… Tomorrow it will be moved to Chinhoyi, and finally, it will return to Harare on its way to the Heroes Acre,” said Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage official, Maxwell Muguse.

While government sources hailed Basopo as a liberation war veteran who joined ZANLA in 1976 and rose to prominence post-independence, critics argue his true legacy is steeped in fear, silence, and manipulation.

BREAKING: Car Theft Drama Unfolds at Local Shopping Centre, Vehicle Recovered

Harare, Zimbabwe – 28 April 2025

In an unusual twist of events at a local shopping centre, a man who misplaced his car keys while watching a soccer match ended up losing — and then recovering — his vehicle, a Toyota Prado, after a suspect he had asked for assistance drove off with it.

According to a statement issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on Monday evening, the complainant, who was enjoying a soccer match at the shopping complex, sought help from a bystander to locate his lost keys. The suspect, upon finding the keys, silently made his way to the vehicle and drove away without alerting the owner.

“Police has since recovered the stolen vehicle,” ZRP confirmed via their official X (formerly Twitter) account, assuring the public that swift action had been taken.

Details regarding the identity of the suspect or whether any arrests have been made were not immediately available. Authorities are continuing investigations into the incident.

The police have urged members of the public to exercise caution when seeking assistance from strangers, especially in public spaces, and to promptly report any suspicious activity.

This incident comes amid heightened concerns about opportunistic crimes at busy venues, particularly during popular events like soccer matches which tend to draw large crowds.

More updates to follow as the story develops.

Outrage as Bulawayo City Plans Lavish South Africa Trip Amid Water Crisis.

By Dorrothy Moyo | In an era of digital transformation, public institutions must prioritize cost-efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs. One major opportunity lies in adopting video conferencing technologies — such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet — for attending international meetings and engagements.

Key Benefits:

• Cost Savings: Airfares, accommodation, meals, allowances, and other travel-related expenses can be eliminated, saving thousands of dollars that can be redirected to essential public services.
• Efficiency: Meetings held digitally minimize time lost to travel logistics, allowing officials to remain actively engaged with local responsibilities while participating internationally.
• Accessibility: More officials and stakeholders can be included in knowledge exchanges without incurring additional costs, broadening participation and understanding.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced travel lowers the carbon footprint of government operations, supporting sustainability goals.
• Public Trust: Demonstrating fiscal responsibility by avoiding unnecessary travel enhances the credibility of public institutions and builds public trust.
• Technological Readiness: Embracing digital solutions signals a modern, forward-looking approach to governance, positioning institutions as innovative and adaptable.

:

Unless absolutely necessary for hands-on assessments, public officials should prioritize attending international meetings via video conferencing. This approach not only conserves public funds but also demonstrates leadership’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and the responsible stewardship of resources.

Bulawayo residents are furious after revelations that the City Council plans to send a 25-member delegation — including councillors, senior managers, and consultants — to South Africa for a “fact-finding” mission that critics say could easily be conducted via video conference at a fraction of the cost.

The trip, set for this Friday, would see officials travel to Johannesburg Water to study its governance and operations, even as the city’s own residents endure one of the worst water shortages in years. The planned delegation includes Mayor David Coltart, his deputy Edwin Ndlovu, and key committee chairpersons, despite public consultations overwhelmingly rejecting the creation of a new water utility company in Bulawayo.

Leaked internal communications show that even within the council, the trip is causing bitter divisions. Mayor Coltart himself warned in a councillors’ WhatsApp group chat that sending such a large group would appear “exceptionally insensitive” and “irresponsible” given the dire situation on the ground. He recommended a slimmed-down team of no more than eight people — mainly technical experts — if the trip was deemed absolutely necessary.

Yet despite these concerns, the council appears determined to push ahead with what many are calling an unnecessary junket.

“It is still being debated,” Coltart told reporters yesterday, admitting the controversy but insisting that studying Johannesburg Water could be beneficial. However, critics argue that any learning could easily be achieved through modern communication tools like Zoom, without spending precious ratepayer funds on travel, accommodation, and allowances.

The city recently proposed creating a new water and sanitation utility — a private limited company wholly owned by the city — in a bid to improve service delivery, attract funding, and address chronic infrastructure failures. BCC officials claim the initiative is vital to secure an earmarked US$17 million investment and to benefit from international technical partnerships.

However, with trust in local authorities at an all-time low, many see the South Africa trip as yet another example of misplaced priorities, poor judgment, and tone-deaf leadership.

“How can they justify luxury travel when residents are queuing for water with buckets and desperate for solutions?” asked one angry resident. “If Johannesburg Water has something important to share, they can present it on a video call. This is 2025, not 1995.”

As the storm grows, pressure is mounting on BCC to cancel or drastically scale back the trip — or risk further alienating a weary and frustrated public.

Manhunt Underway for Mufakose Murder Suspect as Police Probe Separate Kadoma Killing

Harare – April 28, 2025

Police are appealing to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of Prince Ncube (27), who is wanted in connection with the fatal stabbing of his brother, Pardon Ncube (30), in Mufakose last week.

The tragic incident unfolded on April 23 at Gwenyambira Shopping Centre, where an argument between the two brothers escalated into a violent altercation. According to police, Prince allegedly drew a knife and stabbed Pardon, who later succumbed to his injuries while being rushed to hospital.

Confirming the incident, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged anyone with knowledge of Prince Ncube’s whereabouts to immediately contact the nearest police station.

“Police in Harare are appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Prince Ncube aged 27, who is being sought in connection with the murder of his brother, Pardon Ncube aged 30, which occurred on April 23, 2025, at Gwenyambira Shopping Centre, Mufakose,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

In a separate development, police in Kadoma are investigating another murder that occurred on the same day. Authorities say a yet-to-be-identified woman was found dead with multiple stab wounds in a bushy area along Jason Moyo Road, Eastview. Investigators believe she was attacked by unknown assailants.

Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in solving either case to come forward.

Both investigations are ongoing.

Harare, Zimbabwe — April 28, 2025

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | In another blow to Zimbabwe’s military establishment, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Winnie Cabby Mandeya, a celebrated liberation war veteran and senior officer of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ), has died under circumstances that, while officially described as natural, fuel growing suspicions of a systematic purge of generals once instrumental in the 2017 ouster of Robert Mugabe.

Mandeya, aged 64, passed away early Monday morning at St Anne’s Hospital in Harare. Confirming her death, Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede said Mandeya was “a determined cadre” who had served the Air Force with “dedication and loyalty” since 1984, after an illustrious record during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.

A funeral parade is set to be held at Manyame Air Force Base on Tuesday, while mourners have gathered at her Borrowdale home, 766 Hogerty Hill, Harare.

Mandeya’s death adds to a growing and troubling list: over 30 senior generals have died since the 2017 military-assisted transition that saw Emmerson Mnangagwa ascend to power. Analysts and insiders alike warn that these deaths are unlikely to be coincidental.

The Generals Are Falling — And Not by Chance

Since the dramatic events of November 2017, when tanks rolled into Harare and the long-serving Mugabe was ousted, Zimbabwe’s political landscape has been dominated by the military elite who engineered the change. Yet, the architects of that transition are now falling one by one.

Among the notable deaths:

• General Trust Mugoba, once feared and respected, was found dead under murky circumstances last year. Though officially attributed to “natural causes,” numerous sources suggested foul play, with Mugoba allegedly viewed as a rising threat to entrenched interests.
• Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, the former military commander who spearheaded the 2017 coup, reportedly survived a poisoning attempt that left him gravely ill. His brush with death rattled the establishment and heightened fears of an internal “silent war.”
• Air Marshal Elson Moyo, a critical figure in the Air Force’s reorganization, died in a suspicious road “accident” — many believe the crash was orchestrated.
• General Sibusiso Moyo, the face of the coup who famously announced the military intervention on television, died abruptly, fueling speculation of an ongoing purge.
• Generals Paradzai Zimondi and Reuben Mlauzi similarly died in circumstances that left more questions than answers.

The sheer number of fatalities among key military figures raises the specter of an internal power struggle as ZANU PF’s battle for succession intensifies.

The Mgagao Shadow and ZANU PF’s Chronic Succession Crisis

ZANU PF’s leadership has long been shaped by the military, dating back to the 1975 Mgagao Declaration where liberation war commanders first asserted their political influence. Post-independence, every major leadership transition — including Mugabe’s fall — bore the fingerprints of the military.

Today, as the question of Mnangagwa’s successor looms large, and with factionalism rife inside the ruling party, the military’s grip on political outcomes is once again being tested. However, the deaths of veterans like Mandeya suggest that the old guard is being systematically dismantled — either through natural attrition, covert assassinations, or a mix of both.

A Shadowy New Force?

Intelligence sources hint at the emergence of a clandestine group within the military and political apparatus, determined to reshape Zimbabwe’s leadership landscape. According to one military insider, “The struggle now is no longer just political — it’s existential. No one trusts anyone. Those who were kingmakers in 2017 have become liabilities.”

This shadow network allegedly aims to sideline or eliminate any figure perceived as disloyal or ambitious enough to challenge the emerging new order. The pattern is chillingly familiar: marginalization, surveillance, unexplained illnesses, fatal “accidents.”

Zimbabwe Holds Its Breath

As the nation mourns yet another decorated military hero, Zimbabweans are left grappling with an unsettling reality: the fight for power has entered a deadly phase. With the 2028 elections approaching and Mnangagwa’s succession plans unclear, the stakes have never been higher.

In a land where history is soaked with the blood of liberation fighters and power struggles, the latest chapter in Zimbabwe’s political saga is being written in shadows, whispers, and sudden funerals.

The death of Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Winnie Mandeya is not just a personal tragedy — it is another piece in a dangerous and evolving puzzle, one whose endgame remains dangerously uncertain.

By Munacho Gwamanda- AIR Vice Marshal (Retired) Winnie Mandeya has died.

The senior officer of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) was 64.

Air Vice Marshal Retired Mandeya died early Monday morning at St Anne’s Hospital in Harare.

Confirming the sad news, Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe, Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede, said the late Air Vice Marshal Retired Mandeya served the AFZ with dedication and loyalty since 1984.

“The Air Force of Zimbabwe family is saddened by the passing on of Air Vice Marshal Winnie Cabby Mandeya (Retired) on April 28 2025. She was a determined cadre who served the Air Force of Zimbabwe since 1984 and a liberation war heroine,” he said.
“The late AVM Winnie Cabby Mandeya (Retired) joined the liberation struggle on September 29, 1975 and successfully completed basic military training at Nachingweya, Tanzania and was deployed in Gaza Province where she operated until 1978 when she was selected for a nursing course. At independence, she joined the President’s Department where she actively participated in the commission of inquiry into missing persons in 1981 and later transferred to the Air Force of Zimbabwe on July 1, 1984,”

Born on the 14th of July in 1960, in Rusape, Air Vice Marshal Retired Mandeya’s journey was marked by groundbreaking achievements.

She was among the cadres who survived the Chimoio attack.

In 2022, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promoted her to Air Vice Marshal, a rank equivalent to Major General in the Zimbabwe National Army, recognising her dedication and trailblazing service.

Meanwhile, a funeral parade for Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Mandeya will be held at Manyame Air Force Base this Tuesday.
Mourners are gathered at 766 Hogerty Hill in Borrowdale, Harare.

-ZBC

By A Correspondent

Zimbabwe’s government has introduced tough regulations and high financial barriers for those seeking to cultivate cannabis—commonly known as “mbanje”—for medicinal or scientific purposes.

Despite the country’s legalization of cannabis production for approved medical use, the substance remains classified as a dangerous drug under the Dangerous Drugs Act.

Unlicensed possession or use can lead to severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to 10 years and substantial fines.

“All cannabis-related activities remain heavily restricted outside the licensed medical framework,” a senior official from the Ministry of Health said.

Those looking to enter the cannabis cultivation sector must first obtain a government-issued license.

According to the updated requirements, applicants—either individuals or companies—must submit a detailed site plan demonstrating compliance with regulatory standards.

“A cultivation license is only granted after a rigorous vetting process,” the official explained. “We assess land suitability, security infrastructure, and the applicant’s capacity to operate within the legal framework.”

The initial licensing fee is pegged at approximately $40,000, with an additional $15,000 annual renewal fee. Research licenses carry a $5,000 fee, while renewals cost $20,000 for standard operations and $2,500 for research projects.

“The costs are prohibitive for the average Zimbabwean,” said an agricultural consultant. “It’s clear that these fees were designed with large-scale, possibly foreign, investors in mind. We risk excluding locals from participating in this emerging industry.”

Critics argue that while regulation is necessary, the financial burden may hinder indigenous participation, undermining one of the core intentions behind legalizing medicinal cannabis—to create economic opportunities for Zimbabweans.

“Instead of empowering local farmers, we’re setting them up to fail,” the consultant added. “Lowering the financial barriers could unlock a multi-million-dollar industry and provide livelihoods to thousands.”

The government, however, maintains that the strict measures are intended to ensure security, quality control, and alignment with international drug laws.

“Zimbabwe must position itself as a credible player in the global medicinal cannabis market,” said the Ministry spokesperson. “That begins with robust oversight.”

As debate continues over the accessibility of cannabis licensing, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and civil society are calling for a review of the framework to create a more inclusive and balanced system.

By A Correspondent

The Douglas Mwonzora led Movement for Democratic Change party has been taken to court over US$22,000 rentals fraud.

Party representatives Chengetai Guta and Tapiwa Mashakada, appeared before Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki who remanded them out of custody.

Bail was not an issue since they were coming from home.

According to the State, in September 2023, the complainant, Denmark Training Services, approached MDC offices in Harare intending to lease a commercial stand, number 18168 Belvedere, after hearing that it belonged to the party.

It is alleged that the complainant spoke with Mashakada at the MDC offices, who confirmed that the stand was indeed owned by the party, prompting the complainant’s interest in becoming a tenant.

“The complainant was told to wait for an answer since the third accused (Mashakada) wanted to be given permission to lease the stand from the second accused (Mwonzora).

“However, the third accused was given the permission by the second accused to lease the stand, and a lease agreement was written between the parties after the complainant paid money to the tune of US$22,000 and was given some receipts.

“After paying the required amount, the complainant moved on to occupy the stand but mistakenly occupied the wrong stand that is, he occupied the stand belonging to Croco Holdings.

“When the complainant was starting to develop the stand, he was approached by Croco Holdings personnel and was informed that the stand belonged to them, not MDC, and was instructed to stop developing the stand,” the State alleges.

The court was informed that the complainant notified the accused about this issue and had a meeting with Guta and Mwonzora. It was after this meeting that he realized he had gone to the wrong stand number.

Further allegations state that when the complainant later attempted to go to the correct stand for development, he discovered it was already occupied by another individual.

“The complainant informed the accused about the situation and was told to occupy the stand on May 1, 2024, after removing the person who had taken up residence there, which was contrary to their agreement that stated the lease would begin on October 1, 2023.

“The accused collected money from the complainant knowing full well that there was another tenant at the stand and that they had no lease with the City of Harare.

“On May 1, 2024, the complainant went to the stand intending to start development, only to find that it was still occupied.

“Upon trying to remove the current occupant, Guta ordered him not to enter the premises. He was verbally informed that they had cancelled the lease agreement and directed to seek reimbursement for his payment, prompting the complainant to file a police report,” read court papers.

Investigations revealed that the lease between the City of Harare and the MDC was cancelled on August 20, 2023; therefore, by the time the accused entered into an agreement with the complainant, their lease agreement had long been terminated.

The response from the City of Harare, attached to the request regarding the status of the leased stand, stated that the land belongs to the council, and no other party has the legal right to deal or transact with the property.

By A Correspondent

The 2025 edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), a platform once celebrated for promoting business, investment, and innovation, has come under heavy criticism after it was overshadowed by the ruling Zanu PF party’s aggressive membership recruitment campaign.

The 65th edition of the trade fair, traditionally a major event for showcasing local and international commerce, was instead turned into a political rally, with Zanu PF’s presence heavily dominating the venue.

In a statement released on Sunday, the ruling party boasted about a significant increase in new membership subscriptions, claiming that the trade fair had become a hotspot for digitalized party registration.

“ZANU PF witnessed an increase in new membership and uptake of membership cards at the recent 65th Edition of ZITF held in Bulawayo,” the statement read. “Subscriptions by new members boomed at the Party stands where registration of new membership was digitalised.”

According to Zanu PF, the party’s “people-centred policies” were the driving force behind this surge in new recruits, which they claimed signaled public support for the ruling regime.

“The people-centred policies of the ruling party ZANU PF are attracting many new members to flock and join the Party,” the statement continued, further emphasizing how the party’s influence had spread even within the confines of an event meant to foster business opportunities rather than political allegiance.

However, critics have been quick to denounce the ruling party’s tactics, arguing that the ZITF, a platform established to promote economic development and international trade, has been reduced to a tool for political propaganda and membership drives.

“This is no longer a trade fair; it’s been hijacked by Zanu PF for their own political gain,” said Samuel Chirwa, an economist and independent analyst. “What was once a showcase of Zimbabwe’s potential to the international business community is now a platform for party politics. It’s a complete misuse of a national event.”

The politicization of the ZITF was particularly evident in the heavy presence of Zanu PF banners, slogans, and even party membership drives placed alongside business exhibits. Attendees who had traveled to the trade fair to explore business opportunities were instead met with party literature, and the focus seemed less on economic development and more on solidifying political support for the ruling regime.

“It’s disheartening to see a once-promising event turned into a Zanu PF campaign rally. The ZITF is meant to be about Zimbabwe’s economic growth, not about pushing for party membership,” said another visitor, who wished to remain anonymous. “This blatant politicization undermines the credibility of the fair and its future as a genuine business event.”

For many, the move is seen as part of a larger trend of politicizing national institutions and events to consolidate power. “It’s a worrying sign when even a trade fair cannot remain free from the party’s influence,” said a political analyst based in Harare. “This kind of behavior signals a disregard for the democratic principles that should govern national platforms.”

As Zanu PF continues to consolidate its power through political tactics like these, many are left questioning the future integrity of national platforms like the ZITF. While the ruling party may claim to be driving the country’s economic development, critics argue that such actions only deepen political division and stifle meaningful, inclusive growth.

The 2025 ZITF, now remembered as a showcase of political overreach, leaves many wondering if Zimbabwe’s premier trade exhibition can ever return to its original purpose, or if it will remain another stage for Zanu PF to push its political agenda at the expense of economic progress.

By A Correspondent

Winston Chitando, the Member of Parliament for Gutu Central Constituency and a close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has come under fire for failing to meet the health needs of his constituents, particularly those living with chronic conditions.

Despite enjoying a lavish lifestyle, including driving expensive vehicles and benefiting from the privileges of office, Chitando has been criticized for not supporting the elderly and sick in his constituency, many of whom struggle to access basic healthcare.

Chitando’s lack of support became evident after the 2025 elections, when many individuals in his constituency, suffering from chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, were found to be going without essential medication. These conditions require regular treatment, but due to financial constraints, many are unable to afford the necessary drugs, putting their health at serious risk.

Matthew Takaona, the opposition candidate who ran against Chitando for Gutu Central, visited the constituency last week to distribute much-needed medication to the sick in rural villages.

During his visit, Takaona expressed frustration at Chitando’s lack of involvement in addressing the healthcare needs of his constituents.

“People can’t afford medication, and they go without their prescribed tablets for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes,” Takaona said. “This is creating serious health complications, including strokes, and it’s unacceptable that they are left to suffer without any assistance from their elected representative.”

While Chitando is known for his high-end lifestyle, critics argue that his disregard for the well-being of his constituents stands in stark contrast to his public image. Many residents in Gutu Central feel abandoned by the MP, who has failed to address their healthcare needs, leaving the elderly, in particular, without the essential treatments they require.

Takaona’s efforts to provide medication have been widely appreciated by the local community, with many expressing their disappointment in Chitando’s leadership.

“This is what true leadership looks like. We cannot have leaders who are out of touch with the struggles of the people they are meant to serve. The elderly and sick are being ignored, and this cannot continue,” said a Gutu villager.

The abandonment of the sick and elderly in Gutu Central highlights a broader issue of political leaders prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of their constituents. As the country faces economic hardships, many Zimbabweans are turning to opposition candidates they believe are more in touch with their needs and are committed to making a real difference in their communities.

By Tinashe Sambiri

In a controversial statement that has sparked heated debates across Zimbabwe, Zanu PF official Killer Zivhu has boldly claimed that all prophets in the country are fake.

His remarks, which target self-proclaimed religious leaders, have raised eyebrows and left many questioning the validity of such a sweeping generalization.

In a statement made last week, Zivhu asserted that Zimbabwe is home to no legitimate prophets, suggesting that these individuals are simply exploiting people for financial gain.

“The police should apprehend all self-proclaimed prophets who are exploiting people for financial gain,” Zivhu declared.

“Zimbabwe has no legitimate prophets, only charlatans spewing falsehoods and claiming divine communication. Hamuna maporofita mu Nyika muno, Zvigananda zvinonyepera Mwari.”

His comments have sent shockwaves through the religious community, with many taking to social media and public platforms to express their shock, while others have defended the integrity of local prophets. Zivhu’s harsh words accuse a large number of spiritual leaders of deception, even going as far as calling them “charlatans,” a term that has fueled further controversy.

Zivhu, who is known for his outspoken nature, has frequently made headlines for controversial opinions on various issues

However, this particular statement has drawn criticism from religious groups and followers of the church who argue that his generalization is unfair and unfounded.

Despite the backlash, Zivhu remains firm in his belief that the nation is plagued with false prophets.

His statement also comes in the wake of increased reports of church leaders involved in scams, including the selling of fake miracles and offering spiritual “cures” for diseases at inflated prices.

Whether Zivhu’s claims are entirely justified or simply an overgeneralization remains a matter of intense debate. Regardless, his comments have ignited a broader discussion about the role of religion and prophecy in Zimbabwe and the need for better regulation within the spiritual sector.

As the debate continues, Zimbabweans are left to ponder: Are there truly no legitimate prophets in the country, or are the few bad apples simply overshadowing the true spiritual leaders among them?

One thing is certain—the conversation about prophecy in Zimbabwe is far from over.

By A Correspondent

This year’s edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) has drawn sharp criticism for what observers are calling the blatant politicisation of a national economic event, after ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera openly framed the trade showcase as a ZANU PF-aligned programme.

In a statement made over the weekend, Mavetera—who also chairs the ZANU PF-affiliated group Young Women 4ED—boldly declared the 2025 ZITF a platform for celebrating the ruling party’s leadership and ideology, raising alarm over the erosion of the fair’s neutrality.

“As the National Chairman of Young Women for Economic Development, I am humbled to have led our dynamic team at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair,” Mavetera said. “It was an incredible platform to showcase the innovation, resilience, and leadership of young women driving economic growth under the vision of His Excellency our President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa.”

Her remarks, laced with political overtones, further emphasized the presence and influence of the First Family at what has historically been a non-partisan event.

“We are grateful to our First Lady Her Excellency Dr A. Mnangagwa for mentoring us to greatness,” she added. “Together, we are building more and more opportunities where young women lead greatly towards Zimbabwe’s development.”

Critics say such statements confirm the transformation of ZITF into a party rally cloaked as an economic platform.

Traditionally known for drawing business leaders, investors, and innovators from across Africa and beyond, this year’s event saw the heavy presence of ZANU PF structures and slogans, overshadowing its core mandate of trade promotion.

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye At an event meant to showcase Zimbabwe’s best and brightest business prospects, it was ironically not innovation or enterprise that stole the show, but embarrassment.

Wicknell Chivayo — the controversial mogul under investigation by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre for laundering over R1 billion in public funds — became an unexpected exhibit himself at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. Cameras caught Chivayo, despite his self-proclaimed billionaire status, repeatedly scratching inside his trousers in full view of diplomats, businesspeople, and state officials.

With all the wealth Chivayo has been flaunting on social media — fleets of luxury cars, designer clothes, and million-dollar deals — the public was left asking: could he not afford a simple bar of soap? Or is it that no amount of ill-gotten money can mask deeper personal neglect?

The images quickly went viral, turning what should have been a presidential showcase of Zimbabwean business prowess into a spectacle of ridicule. The man who once promised to build solar plants, deliver elections materials, and pave roads with $627 million contracts now couldn’t even maintain basic hygiene while in the president’s official entourage. 

As one observer put it: “Chivayo was not just scratching an itch — he was scratching away whatever little credibility this event had left.”

In a gathering meant to symbolize integrity and progress, Chivayo’s antics became a metaphor for a nation where opulence is hollow, and dirty secrets lurk just beneath the surface — sometimes, quite literally.- ZimEye

By Munacho Gwamanda- A local Housing cooperative, Nyikavanhu Housing Cooperative, has approached the High Court of Zimbabwe seeking to nullify the corrupt allocation of land ownership at Arlington Estate by the Local government to Secureit (Pvt) Ltd, a security company linked to cement manufacturer PPC Zimbabwe Limited.

Daniel Garwe is the Local Government Minister.

In the summons issued on April 15, 2025, Nyikavanhu Housing Cooperative, represented by Nyamupfukudza and Partners, is demanding the cancellation of a February 9, 2024 offer letter issued by the Secretary for Local Government and the subsequent Deed of Transfer No. 6168/2024 issued in favour of Secureit.

The cooperative claims it was legally allocated Subdivision E of Arlington Estate, measuring 530.25 hectares, in 2006 by the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing.

According to the court papers, Nyikavanhu Housing Cooperative has been in possession of the land since then and accuses authorities of illegally reallocating portions of the land to third parties without revoking its initial offer letter.

The plaintiff alleges that the third defendant, the Secretary for Local Government, is engaged in “a calculated and well-coordinated plan” to deprive the cooperative of its land by parcelling it out to entities like Secureit, despite existing legal claims and prior court interdicts.

The cooperative further claims that Secureit, with the backing of the Ministry, installed billboards on the land in 2017 asserting ownership, leading to legal challenges.

It was during these proceedings that Secureit produced the contested offer letter and deed of transfer, which Nyikavanhu argues were unlawfully obtained.

Nyikavanhu Housing Cooperative seeks an immediate interdiction preventing Secureit from occupying the land and demands that the Sheriff of the High Court evict them if necessary. 

The cooperative also wants the Secretary for Local Government barred from offering any part of the land to third parties and seeks costs of the suit on a higher scale from both Secureit and the Ministry.

The matter is yet to be set down for hearing.

Efforts to obtain comments from PPC Zimbabwe Limited and Secureit were unsuccessful at the time of publishing.

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland North province on a Sunday, when the only functional ambulance serving the Nkayi District overturned on a treacherous stretch of road near Inyathi. The crash claimed the life of a 35-year-old pregnant woman, Patricia Nyoni, who was being rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo for emergency surgery after developing serious childbirth complications.

The attached image paints a grim and painful picture. The ambulance lies overturned on its roof, its undercarriage exposed and its doors flung open. Personal belongings are strewn across the dusty, eroded roadside, and a red cloth or blanket appears to cover a body beside the wreckage — a stark symbol of the human cost of systemic collapse. The road itself, a narrow, dirt track flanked by wild vegetation, appears wholly unsuitable for emergency vehicles, especially those transporting critical patients.

According to reports, a wheel of the ambulance detached after hitting a particularly dangerous patch of the poorly maintained road, causing the vehicle to lose control and overturn. While the driver escaped unharmed, a nurse accompanying the patient sustained injuries and was treated at Inyathi Hospital. The loss of this vehicle leaves Nkayi District Hospital — already struggling with just two ambulances, one of which had been out of service for months — without any ambulance at all.

Patricia Nyoni had been referred from Mateme Clinic to Nkayi District Hospital, where it was determined she needed urgent surgery for a hand prolapse and a transverse lie, a life-threatening condition where the baby is positioned horizontally in the womb. With Nkayi Hospital unequipped to handle such emergencies, the desperate journey to Bulawayo’s Mpilo Central Hospital turned fatal.

Beyond the immediate grief, this tragedy shines a harsh spotlight on Zimbabwe’s broader governance crisis. As Jacob Ngarivhume, a political figure and activist, highlighted in his commentary, rampant corruption has drained public services of vital resources. While state-sponsored cartels shower luxury cars and gifts upon pastors, musicians, and perceived influencers, essential infrastructure — roads, hospitals, ambulances — continues to rot.

The Nkayi ambulance crash is not merely an accident; it is the consequence of deliberate neglect and misgovernance. A nation’s priorities are exposed when ambulances fall apart on the road while elites drive imported luxury vehicles. The preventable death of Patricia Nyoni is a tragic indictment of leadership failure, not just in Nkayi, but across Zimbabwe.

Unless there is a radical shift in leadership ethos and public service investment, more lives will continue to be sacrificed at the altar of corruption and incompetence. Zimbabwe’s healing must start with a fundamental change in how leaders view and value ordinary citizens’ lives.

By A Correspondent

In a move that has raised both eyebrows and questions over foreign influence in domestic politics, Varakashi4ED national chairperson Gody Nkata was on Friday gifted a full suite of farming equipment by members of the Chinese community in Zimbabwe, reportedly in recognition of his pro-government online activism.

The donation includes a brand new tractor, a 4-row planter, a 3-dish plough, a disc harrow, a trailer, a quadbike, and a trailerbike. Supporters of the ruling Zanu PF party were quick to celebrate the development online, hailing it as a reward for loyalty and dedication to the party’s digital propaganda machinery.

“Congratulations Varakashi4ED National Chairman Cde Gody Nkatha for being awarded a brand new Tractor… from the Chinese Community.

This generous gift serves as a token of appreciation for his exemplary social media efforts,” read a post from Zanu PF youth supporters.

They went on to praise Nkata for his role in “coordinating, guiding, and uniting the Varakashi4ED Cyber Team in their mission to defend the ZANU PF party, promote Government policies, and highlight President Mnangagwa’s transformative policies.”

However, political analysts have been quick to interpret the gesture as payment for partisan loyalty, with some saying the reward is less about agriculture and more about political messaging.

“This is not just a tractor. It’s a reward for digital warfare against the opposition and a pat on the back for sanitising the regime’s image online,” said political analyst Tendai Mugabe. “The fact that it’s coming from the Chinese community raises serious questions about the role of foreign players in domestic political campaigns.”

Nkata has been a prominent figure in Varakashi4ED, a Zanu PF-aligned online movement that aggressively defends the ruling party while attacking opposition figures and critics. His online presence has made him both a hero to Zanu PF supporters and a controversial figure among civil society and human rights groups.

“This shows how the regime values propaganda more than policy. Rewarding someone for trolling opposition leaders while the economy burns is a slap in the face to suffering citizens,” said an opposition supporter who asked to remain anonymous.

The Chinese embassy has yet to comment on the donation, but the optics have stirred debate about transparency and influence. Critics argue that the gift may set a precedent for rewarding politically charged content, deepening the divide between ruling party loyalists and the broader public.

As Zimbabwe continues its fragile engagement and re-engagement drive with global partners, the use of foreign-backed gifts to reward digital loyalty may complicate the narrative of sovereignty and self-determination that Zanu PF has long promoted.

By A Correspondent

A British lawmaker has condemned President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for its handling of journalist Blessed Mhlanga’s detention, calling for tangible repercussions. Mhlanga has been held for two months without bail, sparking concerns about media freedom in Zimbabwe.

Lord Johnny Oates, a member of the House of Lords, expressed his deep concern about the plight of Mhlanga, who was arrested for interviewing a war veteran critical of the government. “In Zimbabwe, journalists are consistently silenced, intimidated, and sometimes even killed for doing their job,” Lord Oates stated. “Blessed Mhlanga’s detention is a stark reminder of the regime’s hostility towards press freedom.”

Lord Oates urged British parliamentarians to grill Zimbabwe’s First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, when she visits the UK in June. “When the First Lady speaks at the summit in London, I hope our lawmakers will seize the opportunity to confront her about her husband’s authoritarian tendencies and the ongoing detention of Blessed Mhlanga,” he said. “The UK government must make it clear that normal relations with Zimbabwe will remain frozen until the ZANU PF regime respects media freedom and democratic principles.”

The call to action comes amid growing concerns about human rights in Zimbabwe, which remains suspended from the Commonwealth. Zimbabwean activists in the UK are planning protests outside the FLAIR summit, where the First Lady is scheduled to speak, to highlight the country’s human rights abuses.

Baroness Mobarik had earlier sparked the debate, questioning the UK government’s efforts to protect journalists worldwide. Lord Oates echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that consequences must be imposed on regimes that disregard media freedom and human rights.

“As the noble Baroness, Lady Mobarik, aptly put it, there must be consequences for such egregious actions,” he stressed

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By A Correspondent

Harare is grappling with a severe bed bug infestation, sparking widespread concern among residents and stakeholders. The pests, known as “tsikidzi,” have infested numerous households, prompting calls for urgent intervention from city officials and health experts.

The outbreak, first reported in Mbare’s rundown flats, has spread to other high-density suburbs, including Mabvuku, Kuwadzana, and Budiriro. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume attributes the infestation to the second-hand clothing trade, suggesting that infested clothes may have brought the pests into the city.

“We urge the City of Harare Health Department to take serious action,” said Wisbon Malaya, Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Association. Malaya recommends training residents on homemade fumigation methods and advising informal traders to avoid selling potentially infested products.

Reuben Akili, director of the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA), highlighted the need for proactive measures to address the squalid living conditions in Mbare. “The City of Harare must adhere to the court order and provide necessary services to the 59 blocks of flats,” Akili emphasized.

Residents are growing increasingly alarmed as the infestation worsens.

Without prompt action from city authorities, the pests may continue to spread, exacerbating the dire living conditions in affected areas.

By A Correspondent

A British lawmaker has condemned President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for its handling of journalist Blessed Mhlanga’s detention, calling for tangible repercussions. Mhlanga has been held for two months without bail, sparking concerns about media freedom in Zimbabwe.

Lord Johnny Oates, a member of the House of Lords, expressed his deep concern about the plight of Mhlanga, who was arrested for interviewing a war veteran critical of the government. “In Zimbabwe, journalists are consistently silenced, intimidated, and sometimes even killed for doing their job,” Lord Oates stated. “Blessed Mhlanga’s detention is a stark reminder of the regime’s hostility towards press freedom.”

Lord Oates urged British parliamentarians to grill Zimbabwe’s First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, when she visits the UK in June. “When the First Lady speaks at the summit in London, I hope our lawmakers will seize the opportunity to confront her about her husband’s authoritarian tendencies and the ongoing detention of Blessed Mhlanga,” he said. “The UK government must make it clear that normal relations with Zimbabwe will remain frozen until the ZANU PF regime respects media freedom and democratic principles.”

The call to action comes amid growing concerns about human rights in Zimbabwe, which remains suspended from the Commonwealth. Zimbabwean activists in the UK are planning protests outside the FLAIR summit, where the First Lady is scheduled to speak, to highlight the country’s human rights abuses.

Baroness Mobarik had earlier sparked the debate, questioning the UK government’s efforts to protect journalists worldwide. Lord Oates echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that consequences must be imposed on regimes that disregard media freedom and human rights.

“As the noble Baroness, Lady Mobarik, aptly put it, there must be consequences for such egregious actions,” he stressed.

VIDEO LOADING BELOW- PLEASE BE PATIENCE AS CLIP LOADS UP

By A Correspondent

In a bold statement on Saturday, Taurai Kandishaya, a prominent official within Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, declared that the party is invincible and will continue to rule the nation for the foreseeable future. Kandishaya, who is a member of the Zanu PF Youth League, made the assertion with great confidence, claiming that the party’s grip on power is unshakable.

“The truth is: ZANU PF is ruling and will continue ruling; we invested in this thing of POWER,” Kandishaya boasted, clearly affirming the party’s position in Zimbabwe’s political landscape. His remarks were not only a reflection of Zanu PF’s self-assuredness but also a display of the party’s long-standing belief in its dominance.

However, the statement was met with resistance from opposition voices. Stephen Chuma, the former spokesperson for the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Youth Assembly, sharply disagreed with Kandishaya’s sentiment. Chuma countered, emphasizing that Zanu PF’s control does not equate to ownership of the country itself.

“Zanu PF is not Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe is not Zanu PF. Zanu PF does not have the country’s title deeds,” Chuma said, highlighting the distinction between the ruling party and the nation it governs. His remarks suggested that, while Zanu PF may hold power, it does not have an inherent claim over the country or its people.

The exchange between the Zanu PF Youth League official and Chuma underscores the growing tension between the ruling party and opposition groups, with both sides firmly entrenched in their respective views on Zimbabwe’s future political direction.

The below conversation has one man rejecting the convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo’s money publicly. What are your thoughts over this conversation?