By Own Correspondent| Players in the oil industry have submitted requests to government seeking authority to sell fuel in foreign currency, the industry regulator has revealed.

Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) acting CEO Eddington Mazambani disclosed that proposals had been made to the Energy ministry but the requests were still under consideration.

Mazambani said this when he appeared before the Joel Gabbuza-led Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Energy to speak about the fuel situation in the country.

He said the proposal to sell in US dollars had not yet been given a nod, adding however that it was not reasonable for ordinary Zimbabweans who earned their money in RTGS to buy fuel in forex.

Said Mazambani:

“There has been a proposal that some fuel service stations should sell it in forex, and one of the major players in the oil industry, Zuva, has already piloted the project at two service stations (Zuva Victoria Falls and Zuva Groombridge).

We have already sent a proposal to the Ministry of Energy to consider more players to sell fuel in foreign currency so that we ease the pressure on the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) in terms of allocating foreign currency for the procurement of fuel.”-Standard

By Own Correspondent| National chairperson of Zanu Pf who doubles as the minister of Defence and War Veterans, Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri has said opposition leader Nelson Chamisa’s election victory in urban areas gave him the impetus to be “stubborn and mad” adding that he had to be stopped.

She said this at a provincial inter-district conference at Masvingo Polytechnic on Monday (December 3).

Muchinguri Kashiri said while her party won resoundingly in rural areas, Zanu Pf suffered humiliating defeat in urban areas and party stalwarts should work hard to reverse this trend.

She said:

“We won resoundingly in rural areas but we suffered heavy losses in all urban areas. Harare boosted Chamisa’s votes because he got over 500 000 and we got about 200 000. The same trend was seen in Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo, Gweru and pretty much all the urban centres.

We have a lot of work to do in all urban set ups. This is what is giving Chamisa all this madness and he has to be stopped. Chamisa has been so stubborn.

He has refused to accept the election results even though all other countries have endorsed them. We had free and fair elections and President Mnangagwa was declared the winner.

Chamisa refused and made a Constitutional Court (ConCourt) challenge where our President was again declared winner. Despite all this, Chamisa still remains adamant and is doing demonstrations.”

By Own Correspondent| National Patriotic Front (NPF) has endorsed the candidature of opposition leader Nelson Chamisa for presidency in the forthcoming 2023 harmonised elections.

Jelousy Mawarire, spokesperson of a splinter faction of NPF who is also the executive director and founding trustee for the Centre for Elections and Democracy in Southern Africa (CEDSA) said this in a tweet saying his party endorsed Chamisa’s presidential bid today, tomorrow and in 2023.

Wrote Mawarire:

Isu tiri veNPF, presidential candidate wedu nhasi, mangwana kana 2023 is Advocate @nelsonchamisa . https://t.co/LqNJDZeNK4

— mawarire mbizvo jealousy (@mawarirej) December 8, 2018

By Own Correspondent| The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) Salary Caravan commenced Sunday amid revelations that the teachers completed the first stretch of their journey and camped in Odzi, Manicaland overnight.

ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure told ZimEye that the teachers camped in Odzi readying to continue with their journey in the morning (Monday).

He however revealed that while over a hundred teachers had started the march, a handful had pulled out on day one of the protest.

“The march started well with over 100 participants.

Some of our cadres have however pulled out of the march and there are about 95 of us left. This is walking and some of the teachers could not handle it so they gave up.

We however put up in Odzi where we rested for the night and we will continue with the march this morning until we get to Harare on 19 December.”

The ARTUZ Salary Caravan is a protest march by teachers aimed at pushing government to pay teacher’s salaries in forex. The teachers are also demanding their bonuses in full among other grievances.

The teachers are walking from Mutare to Harare, which is 266 kilometres and expectations are that they will reach Harare on 19 December 2018.

The teachers have revealed that they will  camp at the fnance ministry until their grievances are heard.

Correspondent|KUWADZANA library, which has been under construction for more than two decades, has finally been completed. Harare City Council spokesperson Michael Chideme yesterday confirmed the latest development.

In March 2005, former Kuwadzana MP Nelson Chamisa said he had sourced funds amounting to ZW$2 billion from donors to complete the structure.

In July 2012, the then MDC-T national organising secretary Nelson Chamisa told party supporters he had procured material to complete the project initiated by the late Learnmore Jongwe:

“We have procured material to the tune of $25 000 through the money I sourced to deal with the defective roof and other structural defects, including replacing the vandalised material. We are injecting a further $30 000 for the remainder of the work to be done,” Chamisa said.

He said the library would be officially opened ‘soon’.

“There were challenges which we have now overcome so the challenges are now in the past and we are concentrating in the future which is the opening of the library sometime next week,” said Chideme last month.

He said the library will have internet connectivity and will be open to everyone.

“We are looking forward to the public enjoying the services of the library.

“The library will be connected to the internet, so we will have computers in the library so that people can actually do their research and we will always have E-books in the library,” Chideme said.

Chideme said the library has a children section, so that children in primary school can actually enjoy using the library.

“The library is for everybody, it’s a composed library to benefit the community and its part of our drive to decentralize services to the people, and we bring such facilities closer to the people so that people can enjoy different services to where they stay,” said Chideme.

He also confirmed that there was another library being constructed.

“There is another library being constructed in Glen Norah, and we are also looking at revamping the existing libraries so they match our world class vision by 2025,” said Chideme.

“We will be pioneering the e-library concept in high density locations and we will be providing free wifi to the students.”

Chideme said they were appealing for reading materials in their libraries so that they have up to date reading materials.

ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa will soon announce his choice for Prosecutor-General after getting a shortlist of three candidates who underwent public interviews by the Judicial Services Commission last month.

Eleven candidates went through public interviews to fill the position left vacant after Mr Ray Goba resigned while facing investigations into alleged abuse of office.

Mr Goba was accused of failing to prosecute high profile criminal cases, putting his office into disrepute and leaving the country without Cabinet authority.
Mr Kumbirai Hodzi is the acting PG. Those interviewed for the job on November 1 are Cheda Maphios, Chingeya Wendy Rowesai, Chinyoka Tinomudaishe, Nara Tavenga, Hodzi Kumbirai, Hogwe Misheck, Majome Fungayi Jessie, Mantsebo Calvin Tichaona, Marondedza Edios Edmund, Mashumba Norio and Ziyambi Florence.

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said last week, “Following the interview, three names of the successful interview are brought to the attention of the President.

“The law says from those three names the President should select one name for the office.
“If he is satisfied with a name on that list he selects one and if he is unhappy he can communicate that new names be submitted.

“As of now we are await for the President to apply his mind to the names that were submitted to him before he makes the announcement.

“The Constitution does not give him a timeframe that the announcement should be made by such a time.”

JSC Secretary Mr Walter Chikwanha told The Sunday Mail that the names were submitted to the President in terms of the law.

“As the JSC we have done all that is required of us in terms of the Constitution which states that after the interview we submit three names to the President for him to consider before naming the Prosecutor General designate before swearing in.”

The appointment of a PG is done in terms of Section 259(3), as read with Section 180(2), of the Constitution.

Section 259(4) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides that: “The Prosecutor-General must be qualified for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court.”

Section 178 says “(1) A person is qualified for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court if he or she is a Zimbabwean citizen and at least forty years old and, in addition —

“(a) is or has been a judge of a court with unlimited jurisdiction in civil or criminal matters in a country in which the common law is Roman-Dutch or English and English is an officially recognised language; or

“(b) for at least ten years, whether continuously or not, he or she has been qualified to practise as a legal practitioner —

“(i) in Zimbabwe; or (ii) in a country in which the common law is Roman-Dutch or English and English is an officially recognised language; and is currently so qualified to practise.

“(2) To be appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court a person must be a fit and proper person to hold office as a judge.”

ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa has blamed imports for the ongoing disturbing shortage of foreign currency.

He said Zimbabweans are spending a fortune in foreign currency by importing non-essential consumer goods, while importation of critical capital and intermediate goods remains depressed.

This, Emmerson Mnangagwa has said, is militating against quick economic recovery.

While forex receipts have gradually increased over the last 12 months, spending on consumer goods continues to compete with outlay on critical economic enablers.

In his weekly column in The Sunday Mail, Mnangagwa says foreign currency inflows grew by over 17 percent to US$5,6 billion between January and November compared to the same period last year.

He said the upsurge in forex receipts was a sign of embryonic export activity in the economy. However, the 76 year old politician notes, these gains are being undermined by unrestrained spending on consumer goods.

“The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe report on this year’s foreign currency supply and demand up to the week of 16th November, 2018, gives key indicative facts and figures. I will isolate just a few of these in order to raise a structural issue concerning our economy.

“The global foreign currency receipts from January to mid-November stood at US$5,661 billion, compared to US$4,822 billion received during the same period last year.

“This represents a 17,4 percent increase in receipts, much of it pointing to the growing export activity in the economy.”

Mnangagwa says the figures render false arguments by some prophets of doom that Zimbabwe is in a downward spiral.

“Also, during the same period under review, global foreign payments decreased by five percent to US$4,054 billion from the 2017 figure of US$4,264 billion,” he continues.

“We thus had a positive foreign currency net position of US$1,937 billion, compared to US$582,9 million for the same period in 2017. All these are positive trends.”

Mnangagwa says his administration will consolidate gains realised from increased forex receipts through resolute fiscal consolidation as announced in the 2019 Budget, to trigger quick economic recovery.

“But the report also gives facts and figures which made a worrisome impression on my mind. Our cash transactions on imported consumption goods for the same period stood at US$839,4 million. Although lower than the 2017 figure of US$1,055 billion, still this figure is too high.

“It gets worrisome when read against the figure of US$883,5 million which we spent on capital goods, and another of US$705,5 million which we spent on intermediate goods imports.

“Our spending on imported consumer goods should never come anywhere near our spending on capital and intermediate goods.

“I raise this worry because our economy grows on greater investments on capital goods and intermediate goods. It cannot grow on consumer imports.”

Finance and Economic Development Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube recently invoked the Customs and Exercise Act and imposed duty in foreign currency on an array of goods that include vehicles and meat to stem local appetite for imported consumer goods.

Goods listed for duty in forex include fresh cheese, grated or powdered cheese of all kinds, fresh grapes, ground nuts, margarine, selected meat products, poultry products, swine meat, preserved fish and salt water.

The other products on the list include eggs, sugar confectionery, chocolates, cereals, sweet biscuits, bread, tomatoes, potatoes, mushrooms, beans, grape juices, selected cigarettes, trunk suitcases, handbags and toilet linen.

According to a Statutory Instrument published in the Government Gazette in terms of Section 115 (3) of the Customs and Exercise Act (Chapter 23:02) the new regulations came into effect on November 23.

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Upgrading of the $1 billion Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu Highway will take a phased approach through to 2022, with works having already started on some sections of the key road.

The highway is a major economic corridor, providing South Africa with a link to Africa’s interior through the continent’s busiest inland port of entry at Beitbridge via Zimbabwe.

The project is being financed with local resources after foreign contractors repeatedly failed to meet their obligations and secure funding.

At least nine companies have been tasked with upgrading specific sections. Government has also directed local authorities to dualise 10km stretches leading into their administrative centres.

To this end, works have started on the highway near Chivi and Beatrice, with other councils understood to be mobilising equipment to get on site soon.

The construction by local authorities is in line with Government’s ongoing Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme, and will be done to international standards and then consolidated into the overall project.

In an interview last week, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza said the highway had National Project Status and work on it should reflect such.

He said the Second Republic, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, had committed itself to economic turnaround and infrastructure development.

Minister Matiza said: “The project was on the cards for a long time now and many suitors came on with nothing moving. We had Geiger expressing interest to do the road, but that one failed because there was no proof of funding.

“The New Dispensation and the President cancelled that project. President Emmerson Mnangagwa wants it done and his vision is to make that road workable.

“Government decided to localise the project with local expertise and players. We have seen, in the first phase, local authorities — and in this case Chivi and recently Beatrice — moving to rehabilitate 10 kilometres into their administrative centres.

“We will then award tenders to nine locals to then widen the rest of the road and eventually dualise. This will take about three-and-a-half years to complete.”

Minister Matiza said Government was organising equipment for contractors, who will purchase it through their contracts. He said the nine contracts should be awarded by February 2019.

Cabinet this year withdrew the tender awarded to Austrian firm Geiger for dualisation of the Harare-Beitbridge-Chirundu Highway, with President Mnangagwa saying Government had become impatient with lack of activity on the project. Geiger won the tender commissioned work in May 2016, but failed to move on-site.

Correspondent|FORMER Minister of Home Affairs Obert Mpofu’s building located at the corner of Herbert Chitepo Street and 8th Avenue in Bulawayo caught fire at its 4th floor on Saturday afternoon.

Fire fighters from the Bulawayo Fire Brigade were called in to put out the fire and had to use bolt cutters to access the building.

The side of the building facing Tredgold Magistrates’ Courts was damaged by the inferno.

The cause of the fire was unknown at the time of writing.

By Own Correspondent| The Zimbabwe Republic Police National Spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba told delegates at an indaba against gender-based violence organised by Plan International that they want to increase the visibility of police as a way of curbing sexual harrassment of women by touts in public places.

Charamba said this at an indaba held to commemorate 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), whose 2018 theme is “End Gender-Based Violence in the World of Work.”

This year’s goal is to continue to target the institutions in which gender-based violence is perpetuated and push for systemic change and accountability.

The campaign takes place every year between November 25 and December 10 and is run by over 6 000 organisations in 187 countries.

“The police are aware of random thefts, touting, uncouth conduct by commuter omnibus drivers that pose danger to the general public and affect women and children in particular, and we are conducting operations to curb such unruly behaviour,” Charamba told the indaba.

She spoke amid widespread concern of sexual harassment by kombi crews, which include among others, making sexually coloured jokes or remarks, unsolicited comments and advances, commenting on a person’s clothes or body structure, touching any part of a person’s body without consent as well as physical harassment.

Women who use public transport grimly accept harassment as part of their daily lives, facing it as soon as they are out of the house.

Charamba said the current thrust in the ZRP is to deploy more police officers for operational duties with a view to increase police visibility in communities.

“This will certainly go a long way in curbing some of these offences. We encourage anyone who is violated in public space to report so that some of these cases are on record,” she said.

Charamba said they are currently carrying out intensive anti-GBV awareness campaigns.

“The awareness campaigns are conducted at primary and secondary schools, institutions of tertiary education, church gatherings and other public fora.

“We also use the print and electronic media to disseminate messages to the public so that they are empowered on the nature of many aspects of GBV, where to report and how to report.

“We have also embraced social media as a vehicle of sharing information with the public.”

Speaking at the same event, Plan International country director Tendai Musonza said their organisation is advocating for safer cities where women can move around without fear.

“What we are advocating for is that we want safer cities. We want to make sure that women are given respect in public places. Violence in public places should not be normalised.”

By Own Correspondent| Former Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo has warned that endorsing presidential candidates four years before elections causes coups.

Speaking on Twitter, Moyo said during former President Robert Mugabe’s days presidential candidate endorsements would be made days before an election.

Moyo was reacting to news that the Zanu-PF Women’s league had also endorsed President Mnangagwa as the sole 2023 Zanu-PF presidential candidate.

The party’s Youth League and the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) have also endorsed President Mnangagwa’s candidature for the 2023 presidential election as has almost every province.

Said Moyo:

“ZANUPF WOMEN’S LEAGUE ENDORSE MNANGAGWA AS SOLE CANDIDATE” “SOLE 2023 candidate”? In the Mugabe days such ENDORSEMENTS would be seen a year, not more than four years, before a poll. A new dispensation, this? Don’t people learn? Such things beget coups!”

Own Correspondent| ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa was found missing on Saturday morning during a state function.

Mnangagwa was supposed to attend the burial of the national hero – the founding Vice Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Professor Phineas Makhurane.

Prof Makhurane was laid to rest at his rural home in Gungwe, Gwanda South.

Details on why he bunked the burial were not clear at the time of printing, and efforts to obtain a comment from the information ministry were fruitless.

Professor Makhurane passed on last Saturday at Mater Dei Hospital and was declared a national hero.

The late national hero was described as an academic giant who has left a legacy of service to the nation.

ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa who was represented by the Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity Ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo paid tribute to Professor Makhurane for devoting his life towards the cause of education which went beyond the country’s borders.

He said it is Professor Makhurane’s wonderful works which saw the Politburo according him a national hero status making his burial the first state funeral in Matabeleland South Province.

Academics were urged to follow in Professor Makhurane’s footsteps through ploughing back to the nation.

Mnangagwa spoke for many when he thanked the family and community of Gungwe for producing a jewel whose legacy will forever be cherished.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Khaya Moyo who was accompanied by Evelyn Ndlovu, the Minister of State in Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga’s office, Zanu PF secretary for War Veterans and Deputy Minister of Defence and War Veterans Victor Matemadanda and the ZANU-PF Secretary for Youth Affairs Lewis Mathuthu led mourners in the body viewing ceremony.

Professor Makhurane’s son Lesedi described his father as a humble and simple man who championed for the education of the black majority while friends also spoke glowingly of Professor Makhurane saying his wisdom will be greatly missed.

Professor Makhurane who was born on the 13th of January 1939 in the Gungwe area of Gwanda, is survived by wife Lydia, a daughter and three sons.

By Own Correspondent| Chikomba West legislator who doubles as the Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr John Mangwiro provided awards with a difference for Marondamashanu Secondary School Prize Giving Day.

Dr Mangwiro awarded excelling students hens and goats for their prizes saying that this was a worthwhile investment as hens and goats are going to multiply and be there for a long time if the winners look after them well.

He gave the prizes (Friday), at the school’s first ever prize giving day since its establishment in 1984.

Said Mangwiro:

“Education is the key to a better life so you must work hard in preparation for your future life. You must showcase the talents that you have, which can also change your lives.”

He also said the goats and hens would foster self-reliance amongst the pupils at a tender age.

“Goats and hens reproduce and the pupils can sell them to get money for school fees and other needs,” he said.

Present at the ceremony were Chief Nyoka, several heads and teachers from surrounding schools and Chivhu Police Station Officer in Charge Richard Masiiwa who is a former student.

Prominent local film ‘Wenera’ actors Zolile Makheleni (Tsotsi) and Tinashe Pundo (Gugu) were also present.-MasvingoMirror

Own Correspondent| ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa was found missing on Saturday morning during a state function.

Mnangagwa was supposed to attend the burial of the national hero – the founding Vice Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Professor Phineas Makhurane

Prof Makhurane was laid to rest at his rural home in Gungwe, Gwanda South.

Details on why he bunked the burial were not clear at the time of printing, and efforts to obtain a comment from the information ministry were fruitless.

Professor Makhurane passed on last Saturday at Mater Dei Hospital and was declared a national hero.

The late national hero was described as an academic giant who has left a legacy of service to the nation.

ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa who was represented by the Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity Ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo paid tribute to Professor Makhurane for devoting his life towards the cause of education which went beyond the country’s borders.

He said it is Professor Makhurane’s wonderful works which saw the Politburo according him a national hero status making his burial the first state funeral in Matabeleland South Province.

Academics were urged to follow in Professor Makhurane’s footsteps through ploughing back to the nation.

Mnangagwa spoke for many when he thanked the family and community of Gungwe for producing a jewel whose legacy will forever be cherished.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Khaya Moyo who was accompanied by Evelyn Ndlovu, the Minister of State in Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga’s office, Zanu PF secretary for War Veterans and Deputy Minister of Defence and War Veterans Victor Matemadanda and the ZANU-PF Secretary for Youth Affairs Lewis Mathuthu led mourners in the body viewing ceremony.

Professor Makhurane’s son Lesedi described his father as a humble and simple man who championed for the education of the black majority while friends also spoke glowingly of Professor Makhurane saying his wisdom will be greatly missed.

Professor Makhurane who was born on the 13th of January 1939 in the Gungwe area of Gwanda, is survived by wife Lydia, a daughter and three sons.

Own Correspondent|THE founding Vice Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Professor Phineas Makhurane has been laid to rest at his rural home in Gungwe, Gwanda South.

Professor Makhurane passed on last Saturday at Mater Dei Hospital and was declared a national hero.

The late national hero was described as an academic giant who has left a legacy of service to the nation.

ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa who was represented by the Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity Ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo paid tribute to Professor Makhurane for devoting his life towards the cause of education which went beyond the country’s borders.

He said it is Professor Makhurane’s wonderful works which saw the Politburo according him a national hero status making his burial the first state funeral in Matabeleland South Province.

Academics were urged to follow in Professor Makhurane’s footsteps through ploughing back to the nation.

Mnangagwa spoke for many when he thanked the family and community of Gungwe for producing a jewel whose legacy will forever be cherished.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Khaya Moyo who was accompanied by Evelyn Ndlovu, the Minister of State in Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga’s office, Zanu PF secretary for War Veterans and Deputy Minister of Defence and War Veterans Victor Matemadanda and the ZANU-PF Secretary for Youth Affairs Lewis Mathuthu led mourners in the body viewing ceremony.

Professor Makhurane’s son Lesedi described his father as a humble and simple man who championed for the education of the black majority while friends also spoke glowingly of Professor Makhurane saying his wisdom will be greatly missed.

Professor Makhurane who was born on the 13th of January 1939 in the Gungwe area of Gwanda, is survived by wife Lydia, a daughter and three sons.

Correspondent|MDC president Nelson Chamisa has denied that there are any talks that are taking place between himself and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Chamisa was responding to screaming headlines that gripped the nation throughout the week insinuating that the two leaders were engaging in talks towards solving the national crisis.

“Newspaper headlines on dialogue are misleading. Whereas it is much desirable for Zimbabweans to find each other, there has been no contact between Mnangagwa and myself. Any suggested existence of talks is inaccurate, untrue and unsubstantiated,” Chamisa said.

The media had this week reported that the tentative dialogue had already resulted in Chamisa appointing a high-powered MDC team to negotiate with the ruling Zanu-PF to end the bad blood between the two parties.

It was also reported that respected clergyman and businessman, Shingi Munyeza, had made an impassioned plea to both men to put aside their differences and work together in the interests of the country.

The youthful opposition leader has been brawling with Mnangagwa ever since he narrowly lost the hotly-disputed July 30 presidential election, whose result he vigorously challenged at the Constitutional Court (Con-Court).

Chamisa went on to accuse the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) of manipulating the poll results in favour of the Zanu-PF leader.

But Mnangagwa’s victory was upheld by the Con-Court, which ruled that Chamisa had failed to provide evidence that he had won the election.

Last week, Chamisa held a massive demonstration in Harare – where he heaped pressure on Mnangagwa to act on the deteriorating political and economic situation in the country.

Addressing his supporters then, who were protesting the falling standards of living in the country and the government’s recent unpopular economic revival measures, Chamisa also said Zimbabwe could not afford “one day longer” without addressing the country’s worsening political and economic crisis.

ON August 1 2018, some so called protests took place in Harare and soldiers were sent to as claimed, suppress them.

The deployment of soldiers resulted in the shooting deaths of six civilians.

ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa instituted a Commission of Inquiry into the killings led by Former South Africa President Kgalema Motlanthe.

The commission is yet to table the report to the President.

We publish the full names of the victims below:

1. Sylvia Matambo: Sylvia was 52 years old. She was working at ZINWA. She was married to Robert Maphosa and is survived by three children and one grandchild;

2. Brian Zhuwawo: Brian was from Epworth. He was selling car chargers, phone pouches, airtime and small car accessories for a living. He was shot in the back;

3. Challenge Tauro: Challenge was 20 years old and worked at the Gulf complex in Harare CBD. He is survived by his wife;

4. Gavin Charles Dean: Gavin was 48 years old. He is survived by a 13-year-old daughter;

5. Ishamil Kumire: Ishamil was 41 years old. He was a fruit vendor in Harare and a sole breadwinner. He was married to Suspicious Ziyamba and is survived by four children;

6. Jealous Chakandira : He was a commuter omnibus driver who was shot on the chest while walking along Nelson Mandela and Julius Nyerere.

By Own Correspondent| Managing Consultant for JSM Strategic Pathways Joe Mutizwa has accused opposition MDC leader Nelson Chamisa of causing political polarisation which in turn has resulted in low investor confidence.

Mutizwa said this during a US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, on Thursday.

Said Mutizwa:

“The legal challenges against the election results at the Constitutional Court and the refusal by the main opposition to accept the legitimacy of President elect Emmerson Mnangagwa has resulted in deep political polarization which has severely dented business confidence for both foreign and domestic investors.

While the polarization is a reality it is also a fact that the ruling party emerged from the election with a two thirds majority in Parliament thus giving it a strong mandate to carry out the required legislative reforms particularly those needed to align existing laws to the 2013 constitution.”

LIVE: Does A Journalist Who Can Wipe ED’s Hands Of 1 Aug Innocent Human Blood Exist On Earth? https://t.co/da4r0NQNQG via @ZimEye

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 8, 2018

 

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By Own Correspondent| The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have finally opened a docket for a 31 year old Harare woman who was assaulted by riot police in Epworth Harare on 2 December 2018.

The woman, who was assaulted while carrying a baby on her back said the baby fell to the ground during the assault in a development which has seen her baby being restless.

Said the woman in an interview with ZimEye:

“I got a phone call advising me to go to Central Police Station and open a docket against the police details who assaulted me with a baby on my back.

My challenge is i do not know whether i will be attended to at Parirenyatwa hospital because i understand the doctors are on strike.

However, my baby got an injection after a well wisher, donated $100 for medical attention at a private hospital after my story was published on ZimEye. I would like to thank Prisca for her donation.”

Watch the video below for this and more:

By Own Correspondent| Zanu Pf’s Women’s League has endorsed Emmerson Mnangagwa’s candidature for the 2023 presidential poll.

The party’s women chapter described their leader as a champion for women empowerment.

The development comes ahead of the ruling party’s People’s National Annual Conference slated for Matabeleland South Province next week.

The party’s Youth League and the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) have also endorsed President Mnangagwa’s candidature for the 2023 presidential election as has almost every province.

The league’s national assembly members hailed Mnangagwa for allocating 30 percent of Cabinet posts to women, despite only a small number of them managing to make it to Parliament in the July 30 harmonised elections.

Addressing the Women’s League national assembly meeting in Harare yesterday, the league’s secretary for Administration Monica Mutsvangwa announced the decision to endorse Mnangagwa’s candidature, among a host of other resolutions.

Said Mutsvangwa:”We are confident of President Mnangagwa’s hard work and dedication to duty  and we are optimistic that this will turn around the economy and bring an improved standard of living.

Women’s League supports President Mnangagwa and First Secretary of Zanu-PF Cde ED Mnangagwa ’s leadership and therefore endorses him as the sole candidate for the 2023 election.”-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent| Presenting oral evidence before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Energy, Major Oil Companies Industry Forum representative and acting CEO for Petrotrade Godfrey Ncube called on Government to avail more foreign currency to cushion the country from worsening fuel shortages.

Ncube appealed to Government to supply them with two-week worth of foreign currency cover to ensure there are no gaps that worsen fuel shortages.

He said it is difficult to eradicate the long queues because of the gaps in supply.

The Major Oil Companies Industry Forum is constituted by companies including Total Zimbabwe, Engen, Petrotrade, Zuva Petroleum and Puma.

Said Ncube:

“As oil companies, we have a distribution structure designed to top up stocks in the service stations on our commercial customers.

Sometimes when the service stations run dry, it takes longer to completely eradicate the queues because each drop is wiped out within a few minutes. We then would require a bit of time.

Each one of us currently gets fuel at different times and we try and fill the gap. We suggest the Government to try and just have a two-week period to allocate most of the foreign currency to the fuel companies so that we make all service stations wet and then work on top-up basis.”-StateMedia

Correspondent|INFORMATION, Media and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Mr. Nick Mangwana has said government will not drop charges against MDC deputy chairman Tendai Biti just because the US said so. Mr Biti is facing charges of inciting post-election violence that led to the death of six people in Harare on August 1.

He is also facing charges of contravening Section 66A (1) of the Electoral Act Chapter 2:13, which prohibits the unofficial or false declaration of election results as he unlawfully declared opposition party leader Mr Nelson Chamisa as the winner of the July 30 presidential elections.

“The Government cannot on one hand say no one is above the law and everyone should enjoy the benefit of due process as enshrined in our Constitution and statutes and on the other hand interfere with that due process,” Mr Mangwana said, who is also the Government spokesperson.

Mr Mangwana said under President Mnangagwa’s Second Republic, the country would respect its Constitution, particularly with regards to separation of powers between the Executive, the Judiciary and the Legislature.

The Government also slammed United States Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Mr Matthew Harrington for claiming that Zimbabwe was harassing political opposition and that authorities should drop what he termed “spurious charges” against MDC-Alliance vice chairman Mr Tendai Biti.

During a US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, on Thursday, Mr Harrington suggested that there was “harassment of members of the political opposition” and said the Government of Zimbabwe “should drop spurious charges against former finance minister and prominent opposition figure Tendai Biti and all those who have been arbitrarily detained for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms”.

But Government yesterday pushed back strongly, slating the US for its interference and duplicity.

Mr Mangwana said in line with its diplomatic thrust of re-engaging with the international community, Zimbabwe was willing to make friends, but would not brook lectures on the conduct of its domestic affairs.

Said Mr Mangwana: “Government will continue to engage with those who we don’t necessarily agree with us on some matters in order to find common ground. However, that does not include directives from those friends or allies on who to prosecute and who not to prosecute, who to appoint to certain positions or not. That would be contrary to the ethos which informs our sovereignty and independence.”

By Own Correspondent| First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa has urged women in Zanu-PF to desist from gossiping saying this destroys the party.

Speaking at a Zanu-PF Women’s League national assembly meeting in Harare yesterday, the Mnangagwa said she had an open-door policy but she does not entertain gossipers.

Said Mnangagwa:

“I urge all women to shun gossiping. Gossip destroys the party. Let us respect each other, love each other and teach each other to do good for the development of the country.

Zanu-PF women must be known all over for good works and it will be easy to woo people to the party if we behave well out there. My door is always open for all of you, but do not come with gossip.

We should lead by example and stop the destructive tendency of speaking ill of others.”-StateMedia

By Own Correspondent| Speaking during the Zanu Pf Women’s League National Assembly meeting, national secretary for the Assembly, Marble Chinomona said President  Emmerson Mnangagwa had set up intelligence officers to spy on those conniving and holding secret meetings with G40 stalwarts.

Chinomona warned Zanu Pf members working in cahoots with G40 members that the Central Intelligence Organisation is watching their every move.

The Women  Assembly meeting was held ahead of ZANU PF’s National Conference to be held next week in Esigodini.

Warned Chinomona:

“We understand that there are some people who are holding meetings in hotels with some G40 members.

We all know what G40 had done to the party but you are busy conniving with them. That is uncalled for.

We have the CIO that was set up by President Mnangagwa and they are among us. If they catch you on the wrong side, you are in trouble, be warned.”

By Own Correspondent| Minister of Women and Youth Affairs who is also Nkayi North legislator, Sithembiso Nyoni has graduated with a doctorate

Said Dr Nyoni:

“Have graduated good people…its been a long journey…its now Dr. Sithembiso Nyoni!!!”

Citizens took to the social media to congratulate Dr Nyoni on her achievement.

Below are some of the reactions:

 

 

By Farai D Hove| There was a crisis of ironies during the US senatorial committee discussion on Zimbabwe when the businessman speaking in favour of Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa, Joseph Mutizwa claimed that political polarization in Zimbabwe began with and was triggered by the People’s President, Nelson Chamisa’s legal challenge at the constitutional court in August 2018.
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…

Mutizwa also claimed that Chamisa’s opponent, Mnangagwa has set out an aggressive timetable to align laws to the 2013 constitution.

Mutizwa said in part: “The legal challenges against the election results at the Constitutional Court and the refusal by the main opposition to accept the legitimacy of President elect Emmerson Mnangagwa has resulted in deep political polarization which has severely dented business confidence for both foreign and domestic investors.

“While the polarization is a reality, it is also a fact that the ruling party emerged from the election with a two thirds majority in Parliament thus giving it a strong mandate to carry out the required legislative reforms particularly those needed to align existing laws to the 2013 constitution.”

The reality however is that political polarisation began 8 months before when Emmerson Mnangagwa’s office declared intention and a threat to commit acts of terrorism at a military level against any winner of the 2018 elections. The declaration was broadcast live on the state broadcaster, ZBC.

Mnangagwa was filmed smiling soon after it was announced that the Zimbabwe defence forces will be used to change the electoral results so that they reflect an outcome that is greater than the 1980 one.

Said Mutsvangwa:

Meanwhile Mutizwa also claimed that there is an acceleration of actions by Mnangagwa to align the current laws with the 2018 constitution.

What has happened in practice was Mnangagwa however literally undoing the 2013 constitution, one of these latest steps being a proposal to change the constitutional age limit for presidency so that it disqualifies the 40 year old Chamisa who defeated him in 2018.

BELOW WAS MUTIZWA’S FULL TESTIMONY TO THE  UNITED STATES SENATE FOREIGN RELATIONS SUB-COMMITTEE ON AFRICA AND GLOBAL HEALTH POLICY

Submitted By: JOSEPH MUTIZWA

ARTICULATING PERSPECTIVES OF ZIMBABWE’S PRIVATE SECTOR.

Washington DC, December 6, 2018

 

HEARING ON: ZIMBABWE AFTER THE ELECTIONS

Preamble
This opportunity to address the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy to offer the perspectives of the private sector in Zimbabwe on the situation prevailing in Zimbabwe in the post-election period is greatly appreciated. This dialogue is long overdue. On behalf of the private sector in Zimbabwe, I would like to thank Senator Jeff Flake and members of his Committee for this rare opportunity accorded to us.
As this invitation came at short notice some of my colleagues from the private sector in Zimbabwe were unable to travel to Washington to participate in today’s proceedings. In the short time available to me I was able to solicit the contributions of some-not all –business sector leaders in the private sector in Zimbabwe. The outcome of this consultation is, I believe, a balanced assessment of the state of the macro challenges facing Zimbabwe today as outlined in this written submission.
Zimbabwe is a nation that has experienced economic volatility for the greater part of its post-independence history from 1980 to today. I can say, without hesitation, that the people of Zimbabwe are extra-ordinarily resilient. Over the last two decades they have experienced all manner of deprivations such as; political polarization and violence, record beating hyperinflation, infrastructure decay, staggering unemployment levels and economic decline accompanied by deepening poverty. In recent times we have even been visited by medieval diseases such as cholera.
Despite all these challenges the people of Zimbabwe have largely remained peaceful, hardworking, God fearing and honest. Our work ethic as a nation is second to none on the African continent. Our literacy rates remain among the best in Sub-Saharan Africa. Zimbabwe business leaders occupy positions of high responsibility in iconic corporations across Africa and beyond.
I make this submission in my following capacities: –
i) As the former CEO (2002-20120) of one of Zimbabwe’s largest listed companies (see appendix 1 for my resume).
ii) As the current Chairman of the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange Listed Companies Forum (ZSE Forum) – representing all the 63 companies listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange.
iii) As a Leadership Consultant working with more than 30 private sector companies since my retirement as CEO of Delta Beverages in 2012. This consultancy role gives me unparalleled access to Chief Executive Officers, their boards and executive committees. This puts me in a position to have an in-depth appreciation of private sector perspectives across Zimbabwe. (see appendix 2 for the list of some of the companies consulted for and the sectors they fall into).
iv) As Chairman of the boards of several private sector companies in Zimbabwe.
v) As an independent non-executive director on the Board of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. In this capacity i also chair the important Bank Stability Committee which is charged with supervision of the banking sector in Zimbabwe. I am, therefore, fully cognisant of the challenges facing the private banking sector in Zimbabwe.
The ushering in of the new political dispensation following the resignation of President Robert Mugabe in November 2017 has had a seismic impact on the nation of Zimbabwe. The private sector is a significant stakeholder in the process of building a new Zimbabwe in the post Mugabe era.
This submission will address four key issues which Senator Flake has requested me to focus on. These are: –
1. What is the current state of Zimbabwe’s economy and its impact on Zimbabwean people?
2. What is the private sector’s evaluation of the impact of the July 30, 2018 elections on Zimbabwe’s economy?
3. How does the private sector evaluate of the progress made to date on economic and political reforms by the Government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa?
4. What alternatives does Zimbabwe have should the USA fail to take action to support Zimbabwe’s economy?

I will tackle each question in turn.
In preparing this submission for the Sub-committee on Africa and Global Health
Policy I am guided by a number of considerations that the private sector in Zimbabwe embrace. These are: –
• The over-riding desire for stability in terms of both the economic and political environments. A stable operating environment is conducive to business growth. The converse is true.
• A desire for economic reforms that recognize the role of the private sector as the engine for economic growth.
• The need for an investor friendly environment that encourages and makes it easy for both foreign and domestic investors to conduct business.
• Macroeconomic policy consistency and predictability.
• A stable currency and affordable cost of money.
• Access to affordable international lines of credit to enable the recapitalization and modernisation of plant and equipment for productivity and competitiveness.
• A regulatory framework that is facilitative of business and that improves the ease of doing business and makes Zimbabwe a desirable investment destination.
In concluding this preamble, I wish to state that the private sector in Zimbabwe endeavours to be apolitical. We work with any government in office regardless of its political leanings.
We offer support to ensure success of desirable policies and programs but we also offer constructive criticism to Government where we believe that policies or measures are not in the best interests of the economy.
This submission is guided by the above considerations.
QUESTION # 1

What is the state of Zimbabwe`s economy and what is the impact it is having on citizens?

1. Current state of the economy from a business perspective
1.1. The Challenges
Zimbabwe’s economy is currently in distress exhibiting stress in the following areas;
• Fiscal distress with the budget deficit projected at 11.6% of GDP in fiscal year 2018. The consensus target within the SADC region is for a fiscal deficit around 3% of GDP.
• Current account imbalance with imports projected to exceed exports in fiscal year 2018.
• 80-90% of the economy is informal – reflecting high levels of unemployment in the formal sector.
• Large public debt burden standing at US$18bn and split 54% to 46% between domestic and international debt respectively.
• Currency volatility reflected in multi-tier pricing distortions in the market with significant loss of value of the local currency over the last two months.
• Rising annual inflation climbing to 20.9% as at October 2018 – the highest in the SADC region.
• Infrastructure constraints affecting road, rail, power, water and sanitation among other needs.
• Very high country risk discouraging Foreign Direct Investment. The country risk premium currently stands at over 20-25%. Only US$470m FDI inflows in 2018.
• Deteriorating standards of living for ordinary citizens as savings and earnings have lost value while costs are escalating.
1.2 The Positive Developments in the economy
i) Rise in Manufacturing Sector capacity utilization
Expansionary fiscal measures by government have stimulated recovery in capacity utilization in the manufacturing sector from a low of around 34% three years ago to around 60% before the October 1,2018 policy pronouncements caused a major foreign currency crisis.
The adverse impact of this rise in capacity utilization has been the “overheating” of the economy as demand for production inputs and consumer products has outstripped the economy’s capacity to generate foreign currency earnings to service the increasing appetite for foreign currency.
The above situation reflects the fact that Zimbabwe’s productive sector is highly import dependant – thus contributing to the Current Account Deficit.
ii) Recovery in Agriculture Production
There has been significant recovery in Agricultural production as evidenced by the following:
• A 34% increase in tobacco production from 188.6 million kilograms in 2017 to 252.5 million kilograms in 2018 (the highest output in the history of the tobacco industry in Zimbabwe-exceeding the previous peak of 238 million kilograms reached in 2000).
• A 95% increase in cotton output from 73 086 tonnes in 2017 to 142 761 tonnes in 2018.
• Zimbabwe has achieved food security through the government`s intervention in agriculture during the 2017/18 agricultural season. 1.2 million tonnes of maize are now in the country`s strategic grain reserve putting Zimbabwe in a secure position even if the current rainy season is adversely by El Nino.
iii) Mining Sector Output Growth
• Gold output has increased substantially and could end the year at 34 tonnes or 42% up on the 24 tones achieved in 2017.
• Platinum output is set to expand on the back of a new mine commissioned by Zimplats – the country’s largest platinum producer.
• Diamond output is set to reach three million carats in
2018 up 67% from the 1.8 million carats achieved in 2017.

iv) Reform of Indigenization Laws
A major step forward implemented by the new government has been the repeal of the indigenization laws which required all businesses to have a 51% equity interest in the hands of indigenous Zimbabweans. This made Zimbabwe unattractive to foreign investors. This requirement has now been removed save for the platinum and diamond mining sectors.
V) Closure to Land Tenure
Significant progress has been made on the contentious issue of land tenure with bankable and transferrable 99 year leases close
to finalization.
Another major change has been the decision by the government discontinue the Mugabe era prohibition of leasing arrangements between white farmers who desire to lease and farm productively on farms allocated to black farmers. Joint ventures and leasing arrangements are now in place allowing a significant number of white farmers to return to farm in Zimbabwe.
1.3 Impact of Macroeconomic Developments on the Populace
• Since 2016 there has been a significant erosion in the welfare of citizens. This erosion has been transmitted through higher cost of living, erosion of value of savings and deterioration in service provision. There has been a real fear that the country was heading towards the volatility experienced in the hyperinflation period of 2007 – 2008. Foreign currency shortages have had a severe adverse impact on the availability of essential goods and services in particular, essential medical drugs, fuel and machinery spares and raw materials.
• The cumulative impact of all these developments has been to erode the quality of life of most, it not all Zimbabweans.
• Since October 2018, there has been a deterioration in macroeconomic stability as parallel market rates of exchange skyrocketed leading to speculative price increases that saw prices of basic food items as well as the cost of transport and rentals soaring out of the reach of ordinary citizens whose disposable incomes have been severely reduced by inflation and increased taxation.
• The current level of trust by most citizens in public institutions is still very low given past experiences with hyperinflation ( 2007-2008) when savings were wiped out. As a consequence of this experience confidence is very fragile in Zimbabwe leading to panic and over-reactions when there is any hint of possible loss of currency value.

QUESTION # 2
How did the July elections impact Zimbabwe`s economy?
1.Overview
In the run up to the elections there was a surge of optimism across Zimbabwe generated by a number of developments among which were the following: –
• Ushering in of a new national leadership after the resignation of President Robert Mugabe – in power for 37 years.
• A very peaceful and relatively open election campaign period.
• Expressions of support for Zimbabwe from broad sectors of the international community.
2. Post- Election Violence
The optimism that swept across Zimbabwe was shattered by the discord around the announcement of election results and the post-election violence on August 1, 2018. Confidence was severely undermined and country risk escalated. The expected FDI inflows did not materialize as expected although there are significant numbers of potential foreign investors visiting Zimbabwe to make inquiries. A few key investors have now made commitments.
3. Post -Election Political Polarization
The legal challenges against the election results at the Constitutional Court and the refusal ty the main opposition to accept the legitimacy of Presidentelect Emmerson Mnangagwa has resulted in deep political polarization which has severely dented business confidence for both foreign and domestic investors. While the polarization is a reality it is also a fact that the ruling party emerged from the election with a two thirds majority in Parliament thus giving it a strong mandate to carry out the required legislative reforms particularly those needed to align existing laws to the 2013 constitution.

4. Impact on Value of Local Currency
In the period following the resignation of President Mugabe and the July 2018 elections the depreciation of the local Zimbabwe currency (the RTGS or “Real Time Gross Settlement” balance and the “Bond Note”) was around 30-40%. The local currency has significantly lost value in the post-election period – at one point in October 2018 reaching a low of around 500% devaluation before stabilizing at around 340% devaluation in the parallel (or unofficial) market. This is despite an official position putting the local currency at parity with the United States Dollar.
5. Deepening Foreign Currency Situation
The post-election period has seen a deepening of the foreign currency shortage as United States Dollars continue to disappear from the formal markets. The consequence of these shortages have had severe adverse impact on the availability of imported raw materials, fuel and medical drugs. The most severe impact has been felt in the area of medical care as hospitals and pharmacies have run out of imported medical drugs thus putting the lives of many ordinary Zimbabweans at risk
6. Tightening Liquidity and Cash Shortages
Zimbabwe has been experiencing cash shortages in the banking sector since the introduction of a local currency (bond notes) in November 2016. These cash shortages remain in place four months after the July 2018 elections.
7. Significant Increase in Tourist Arrivals
Following the July 2018 elections there has been a surge in the number of tourist arrivals in Zimbabwe. Tour operators and resort hotels are reporting increases of around 25-30% compared to the same period last year. Hotel operators in the Victoria Falls resort area are reporting occupancy levels last seen in the 1997-98 period for the forthcoming festive season with average occupancies around 65%.
8. New Mining Investments
Some long term investors have come on board including two Australian mining companies who have projects in oil and gas exploration in Northern Zimbabwe and a Lithium mining operation near Harare, respectively. A Chinese investor is considering setting up a major steel plant in the Midlands area while another company is planning opening a major platinum mine.
9. Financial Commitments By UK Financial Institutions
Of note has been the financial commitment made by The CDC ( The UK Government`s Commonwealth Development Corporation) to make lines of credit available to the private sector in Zimbabwe. Although of limited amount given Zimbabwe`s significant requirements for financial support , this commitment is symbolic as it represents the first such financial commitment by the CDC in almost two decades.
10. Delegations from EU Governments in the Post-Election Period
The post -election period has also witnessed the visit to Zimbabwe by high powered delegations (combining political and business leaders) from China, Germany and Belgium among others.

QUESTION #3
Is President Emmerson Mnangagwa making any Reform efforts, and if so, what progress is being made? What are some for the hurdles to making economic reforms?
1. Overview
My considered view is that there is a crisis of expectations in Zimbabwe.
The ordinary person expected a very quick turnaround of the economy following the July 2018 elections. These expectations are misplaced. Zimbabwe has been in the grip of misrule for 37 years and the damage done to the economy to the country’s reputation and its institutions will take many years, if not, decades to repair.
It is from this perspective that I evaluate what President Mnangagwa has achieved since the July 2018 elections.
2. Evaluation of Progress
2.1. What has been achieved to date?
i) Cabinet Composition
There was wide support for President Mnangagwa’s decision to let go long-serving party loyalists and bring in fresh talent into a significantly trimmed cabinet. Key new appointments were made in the ministries of Finance, Industry, Mines and Transport-all now headed by technocrats. The private sector in Zimbabwe welcomed these appointments.
This cabinet has only been in office since September 2018. It is too early to objectively evaluate their performance after just three months in office.
ii) Opening up of Political Space
• The Political Space has been opened up significantly. Zimbabweans now express themselves much more openly than during the Mugabe era. Press freedoms are in place for the print media while the state electronic media is still to be reformed and liberalized.
• Political demonstrations are allowed and the recent demonstration by the main opposition on November 29, 2018 is a case in point.
• The move to open to the public and to broadcast live on national television the proceedings of the Constitutional Court electoral challenge hearings as well as the public hearings held by the Commission on the post-election violence of August 1, 2018 are both major milestones in establishing transparency in Zimbabwe.
iii) Anti-corruption drive
• Several prosecutions of high level people are currently underway. While there is perceptions in some quarters that there is political bias in the selection of those to be targeted –
the prosecutions indicate a toughening of the President’s stance against corruption.
• Legislation has recently been passed to toughen measures against money laundering and illicit transactions on the parallel markets.

iv) Change of leadership narratives from focus on politics to focus on the economy
The current government has moved sharply to refocus on economic matters. The mantra “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” is now the mantra of Government. However, the private sector wants to see more action than rhetoric on the ground and continues to press government for accelerated reforms especially in the areas of fiscal reforms and ease of doing business.
v) Articulation of a National Vision and Economic Road Map for Zimbabwe.
The President has articulated Vision 2030 whose goal is to turn Zimbabwe into an Upper Middle Class Economy by 2030 with a per capita GDP exceeding US$3 500 per annum. Zimbabwe is currently a lower middle class economy.
President Mnangagwa’s Government in October, 2018, launched the Transitional Stabilization Plan (TSP) which provides a road map to economic recovery for the next three years. Subsequent to the launch of the TSP the government put together a National Budget under the theme “Austerity for Prosperity”. This budget – announced on November 22, 2018 puts the attainment of fiscal balance as the centre-price of the recovery plan. The key goals are well-articulated and include: –
• Reducing the fiscal deficit to 5% of GDP by 31 December 2018 from a projected 11.6% by 31 December 2018. The intention is to achieve this through cuts in Government expenditure, drastically curtailing issuance of Treasury Bills and desisting from resorting to Central Bank Overdraft Facilities.
• Expanding revenues through taxation measures. Two very significant taxation measures have already been implemented.
• Reducing the current account deficit by compressing imports and collecting import duties on luxuries in hard currencies.
• Shifting expenditure from consumption to capital or productive spending.
• A GDP growth target of 3.1% in 2019 down from a projected 4% growth in 2018.
• An average inflation of 10% by end of 2019 down from 20.9% in October 2018.
• An aggressive timetable for reforming state owned enterprises has been announced.
• Implementation of Debt Resolution Program with international lenders before the end of 2019.
• The Government has embraced the proposal for an IMF Staff Monitored Program ( SMP) which is about to commence.
vi) Aligning Zimbabwe`s Laws to the 2013 Constitution
The perception of most observers is that Zimbabwe is moving too slowly on the road to aligning its statutes to the new constitution.
My investigations revealed that of Zimbabwe`s 299 pieces of legislation 255 of these needed to be aligned to the constitution. To date, I am told, 206 of these statutes have been aligned to the new constitution with only 49 outstanding. Among the outstanding ones are the two controversial pieces of legislation namely, POSA (Public Order and Security Act) and AIPPA (Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act) which are widely regarded as being curtailing civil liberties.
On enquiring what the way forward is with these statutes I learnt that the reform of these statutes is on the agenda of the current Zimbabwean Parliament.
2.2 Where has progress been less than expected from a business perspective?
i) Reduction in Government Bureaucracy
• While the size of the cabinet was reduced, it is the private sector`s view that much more needed to be done to reduce head-count at the top – at both ministerial and civil service levels.
• Although the President, Cabinet and senior civil servants and executives of state enterprises will take a 5% pay cut from January 2019, the public wants to see more sacrifices borne by top government leaders than is currently the case. This is necessary so as to make the hardships endured by the ordinary citizen more bearable.
ii) Implementation of measures to improve Country
Competitiveness.
• Very high operating costs driven by currency distortions, high cost of utilities and generally high cost of doing business still prevail.
• Although the Government has established a one-stopinvestment authority (ZIDA – Zimbabwe Development Agency), its operationalization is still unclear to the private sector.
• Policy co-ordination across Government agencies requires optimization so as to minimize frustration for prospective investors due to regulatory bottlenecks.
Iii) The Sequencing of Policy Measures has been less than optimal.
• The implementation of taxation measures ahead of government expenditure cuts was very badly received by an already overtaxed population that wanted to see the benefits of the privileged elites in the public sector reduced first before new taxes were imposed.
• The private sector understands the need for Government to create fiscal space through taxation if it is to curtail printing of money. However the sequencing of the measures could have been handled better.
iv) Anti-corruption Drive needs to be more vigorous
The private sector views both private sector and public sector corruption as cancers that need to vigorously attacked otherwise they will frustrate economic reform efforts.
v) Currency Reforms
• There is a significant section of the private sector that wants to see currency reforms done immediately so as to remove the current pricing distortions as well as the system of allocating foreign currency which is prone to abuse.
• Another view, however, is that currency reforms cannot be undertaken without two major issues being tackled first. These two issues are; the need for fiscal discipline on the part of government, and the need to have in place a Foreign Currency Stabilization Fund to stabilize any domestic currency which may be introduced as part of the currency reforms.
2.3 What are some of the hurdles to making economic reforms?
There are two major categories of hurdles that face the Government of Zimbabwe as it embarks upon economic reforms. The first category is that of Economic Sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the USA (ZIDERA Act of 2001 as amended in 2018); Canada and the European Union. The second category is to do with the potential adverse consequences of Economic Reforms. Let me address each in turn.
2.3.1 The Impact of Economic Sanctions on the Post-Election Economic Reform Agenda in Zimbabwe
Sanctions continue to retard economic recovery in Zimbabwe in a number of important ways.
i) Trade Sanctions
In Zimbabwe, trade sanctions impact negatively on economic growth through denying the country access to foreign lines of credit, which ordinarily finance external trade and access to markets, particularly the USA market, through exclusion from AGOA. Furthermore, the country’s export competitiveness is adversely affected by negative perceptions of the country resulting in high country risk profile translating into higher country risk premiums.
Due to the above the private sector in Zimbabwe finds it very difficult to access affordable external financing to retool and modernize plant and equipment and access technology.
ii) Financial Sanctions
The Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA) has proved to be a great obstacle for Zimbabwe to access foreign finance. USA financial institutions are not at liberty to provide well-structured financial support against Zimbabwe’s minerals (gold, platinum, cobalt, lithium, etc.,) due to OFAC compliance rules. The same it for banks in Europe due to compliance, reputation and association risks.
As a result of the impact of ZIDERA on the financial sector, the Zimbabwe banks have lost more than 100 corresponding banking relationships over the past 10 years.
The strong view of the private sector in Zimbabwe is that the imposition of sanctions on Zimbabwe by the US and the EU have branded Zimbabwe and its entire financial linkages with the rest of the world as representing high risk thereby making the country a compelling target for de-risking interventions by leading correspondent banks in the USA and Europe. iii) Economic Sanctions
Due to a combination of sanctions and its own bad track record of debt servicing Zimbabwe is unable to access balance of payments support and credit and technical support from most of the major multi-lateral Financial Institutions (MFIs).
The private sector’s view is that the country’s failure to access long term concessionary funding from developmental institutions such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB)-among others, has created an unsustainably large deficit in infrastructure development in Zimbabwe – in particular the rail, road and water related infrastructure. The dilapidated state of all these constitutes a real tax on business by hard-wiring inefficiencies into the entire economy.
Businesses in Agriculture, Manufacturing, Mining, Tourism, Financial Services and others all desire to see sanctions removed so that country risk is reduced and access to affordable long-term credit is restored while access to global markets is opened up.
The private sector’s strong view is that sanctions – although they are supposed to be targeted at certain individuals and entities – have the unintended effect of pulling down the entire economy of Zimbabwe and the welfare of all its citizens. Sanctions do constitute a real stumbling block to the efforts of the current Government to get the country’s economy moving forward again.
2.3.2 The Unintended Potential Consequences of Economic Reforms
In embarking upon Economic reforms that are driven by a desire to restore fiscal and current account balance, and to liberalize the economy through currency and regulatory reforms, the government is caught between a rock and hard place.
While tough economic reforms are unavoidable and long overdue, their impact will cause significant pain on the intended beneficiaries – the citizens – at least in the short to medium term.

Four potential unintended risks stand out: –
• Recession Risk
Will the Government’s reversal of expansionary fiscal policies (printing money to support agriculture, for example) tip the country into a contraction phase? If so, for how long?
Will increased taxes (2% on financial transactions and increased fuel duties) suck out too much from people’s disposable incomes precipitating a form of recession?
• Inflation Risk
If market forces are allowed to prevail in the allocation of the scarce foreign currency will there by a deep devaluation causing local prices to run and pushing the country into an inflationary spiral?
To some extent this has already happened as informal markets took a position on the currency. Should the Government mobilize a stabilization fund to support a local currency first before introduction currency reforms. Where does this stabilization fund come from given the current international isolation of the country and the existing sanctions?
• Will the reforms cause socio-political instability?
There is no doubt that in the short term (12-18 months) the reforms will cause a great deal of hardships among Zimbabwean citizens – particularly the vulnerable. Will this cause civil strife in the form of riots and escalating political tensions.
• Will the reforms lead to increased company failures?
As the reforms begin to bite there is every possibility that some companies may fail as disposable incomes drop, as liquidity tightens and as interest rates rise.
All the above pose a significant hurdle to the policy makers in President Mnangagwa’s administration.
The observation of the private sector is that because of the above risks, the proper sequencing and pacing of the reform programme becomes crucial.
A ‘big bang’ approach to economic reforms may have dire unintended consequences given the fragility of the economy. In the absence of significant international financial support, a gradual and nuanced reform process may be more appropriate.

QUESTION #4
What alternatives does Zimbabwe have should the USA fail to take action to support Zimbabwe’s economy?
Overview
It is our view that Zimbabweans are now desperately impatient for real economic advancement. Unless the populace sees progress the pressure on the politicians will be relentless. This can lead to desperate actions on the part of Zimbabwe should the USA and EU fail to respond to Zimbabwe’s request for urgent economic support and removal of sanctions.

4.1 Options available to Zimbabwe
As private sector observers we note that the Government of Zimbabwe is not without options – if it fails to secure USA and EU financial support.
We make no comment on the advisedness or otherwise of these options – but simply to state that these options do exist.
i) Embrace China’s BRI initiative for Africa.
China has placed on the table a potential US$60bn investment package for investment across Africa as part of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Many African countries are scrambling to get a share of these resources. Shunned by the USA and The EU it would be reasonable to assume that Zimbabwe will consider making a strong attempt to access this large pool of investment funds even if this entails mortgaging substantial share of its natural resources to achieve this.
ii) Develop Closer stronger economic ties with Russia
There have already been a number of Russian delegations to Zimbabwe in the recent past – which is indicative of a desire by Russia to forge economic ties with Zimbabwe.
iii) Closer Economic ties with Eastern European Countries such as Belarus.
Our observation is that should the USA and the EU fail to support Zimbabwe these fledging relations will become stronger.
iv) Embrace investors of questionable credentials.
When a government is pushed into a corner there is every reason to believe that it will take any action necessary to enable it to respond to the popular demands of its citizens if the traditional or normal avenues fail to yield results.
V) Revert to ruinous populist policies of the Mugabe era
It is not inconceivable that if the present government fails to secure Support from the international financial institutions despite its commitment to reform it may, in frustration, revert to populism catastrophic consequences for a country with so much promise.
Our view as the private sector is that Zimbabwe’s government desires to strengthen its relationship with its traditional business partners which include the USA and EU. Zimbabwe has already applied to re-join the Commonwealth – a strong indicator that it wants to improve relations with the UK-led grouping and with the West in general. Sanctions present a formidable obstacle blocking the way to the resumption of these partnerships.

Conclusion
Zimbabwe is at cross roads. The Government of President Mnangagwa looks determined to make some tough economic and political reforms. To us in the private sector the President comes across as being sincere in his quest for taking Zimbabwe forward. He appears to have sufficient conviction and resolve to rebuild Zimbabwe and turn it into a successful and proud nation occupying its rightful place among the community of nations. His government recognizes that for Zimbabwe to be welcomed among the community of nations it must acknowledge and settle its debts. It must also put its house in order through better governance and economic management. The government of President Mnangagwa appears to be committed to both.
The President is aware of the huge expectations that the people have. He recognizes that along the way there will be unavoidable pain for the people of Zimbabwe – over and above the traumas they have endured over the past two decades.
As Zimbabwe’s private sector we are fully supportive of the reform programs embarked upon by our Government. We want to see more action and less rhetoric and better co-ordination and sequencing. We will give our Government support in the form of advice and constructive criticism as well as through playing our part in raising production and exports, conserving foreign currency through import substitution and improving competitiveness through cost efficiencies and value addition.
It is the view of most in the private sector in Zimbabwe that the United States government can find in Zimbabwe a worthy and strategic partner. The road to that possibility starts here in the Senate Foreign Relations Sub-Committee on Africa and Global Health Policy.
It is my strong and unambiguous submission, Mr Chairman, that the private sector in Zimbabwe urges the United States of America to urgently repeal Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act ( ZIDERA) of 2001 ( As amended in 2018) .
Zimbabwe is going to be a pivotal nation in the Southern Africa sub-region –a country in whom the United States may find a worthy and strong partner.

I Thank You, Mr. Chairman, for the opportunity to address this Senate SubCommittee at this particular juncture in the history of my country.

Appendix 1

JOE MUTIZWA
Joe is the Founder and CEO of PATHWAYS AFRICA a management consulting company based in Harare –Zimbabwe and working with business organizations within Zimbabwe and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Prior to his current focus Joe spent 32 years in various positions in the Zimbabwe private sector. Joe served for ten years as CEO of Delta Corporation – then Zimbabwe`s largest listed company before taking early retirement in 2012 at age 58.
Joe is Chairman of The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange Listed Companies Forum
(Representing the 63 companies listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange).
He is also Mangwana Capital (a venture capital company) and sugar refining company Starafrica. Joe serves as a non-executive director on several other boards including the board of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe..
After retiring from Delta Joe went to Oxford University to pursue a Master’s degree in Leadership offered jointly by Said Business School and HEC-Paris- graduating in June 2014with distinction.
Joe has written seven books on leadership since retiring as a full-time executive. Joe has consulted for 33 organizations since retiring- with a focus on leadership development for CEOs and Senior Executive Teams.
Apart from the Master’s degree mentioned above, Joe has a B.Sc. degree (with first class honours) from LSE (The London School of Economics) as well as an MBA from the University of Zimbabwe.
Joe is married with 3 adult children and 3 grandchildren.

Appendix II
ZIMBABWEAN COMPANIES WHERE JOE MUTIZWA HAS OFFERED CONSULTANCY SERVICES SINCE RETIRINGB FROM FULL TIME CORPORATE EMPLOYMENT IN 2012
1. AMH Holdings – Media
2. Art Corporation – Manufacturing
3. Bindura Nickel – Mining
4. BOC Gases (Zimbabwe) – Trading
5. CABS – Financial Services
6. CIMAS – Medical Services
7. Dairibord Holdings Limited – Manufacturing
8. Econet Wireless Zimbabwe – Telecoms
9. Edgars Group – Retail
10. First Mutual Holdings Limited – Insurance /Property
11. Freda Rebecca – Mining
12. Mimosa – Mining
13. National Building Society (NBS) – Financial Services
14. National Foods Limited – Manufacturing
15. Nedbank – Financial Services
16. NetOne Cellular – Telecoms
17. Nicoz Diamond – Insurance
18. Nissan Clover Leaf – Motor Vehicle Retail
19. NMB Bank – Financial Services
20. NSSA – Insurance & Pensions
21. Schweppes Holdings Africa Limited – Beverage Manufacturing
22. Stanbic Bank – Financial Services
23. Steward Bank – Financial Services
24. TelOne – Telecoms
25. TSL – Tobacco
26. Unilever Zimbabwe – Fast Moving Consumer Goods
27. ZB Bank – Financial Services
28. ZETDC – Power General & Distribution
29. Zimpapers Group – Media
30. Zimplats – Mining

By Own Correspondent| Secretary for the Women’s Assemby Marble Chinomona has confirmed that factionalism is still rampant within the party adding that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has set up CIO’s to spy on those working with G40 members.

Chinomona warned party members working in cahoots with the G40 faction that the CIO is watching their every move.

Speaking during the Zanu Pf Women’s League National Assembly meeting, Chinomona, warned members to desist from holding secret meetings with the G40.

The Women  Assembly meeting was held ahead of Zanu Pf’ s National Conference to be held next week in Esigodini.

Said Chinomona:

“We understand that there are some people who are holding meetings in hotels with some G40 members.

We all know what G40 had done to the party but you are busy conniving with them. That is uncalled for.

We have the CIO that was set up by President Mnangagwa and they are among us. If they catch you on the wrong side, you are in trouble, be warned.”-263Chat

Correspondent|RETIRED army colonel, Elliot Piki has blamed Commission of Inquiry chairperson Kgalema Motlanthe for his abduction, suggesting that he should help the Zimbabwe Republic Police with information that can lead to the arrest of his abductors.

Piki was allegedly abducted at his home on November 25 a day before he was supposed to appear before the Commission of Inquiry giving his testimony on the August 1 killings.

His lawyers Mbidzo Muchadehama and Makoni wrote a letter to Motlanthe suggesting that he is key to finding his abductors as he leaked a confidential document containing Piki’s testimony.

The document reportedly contained information on how the army was responsible for the post-election violence that led to the murder of six civilians.

“Our client disclosed intimate details outlining how the Zimbabwe National Army was being used as a weapon of violence against any opposing forces to the ruling Zanu PF party and government, as well as the role played by the army in the 1st August shootings, because of his trust in you he thought you were going to treat the document with the confidentiality that it deserves. Our client advises that you are responsible for his abduction, inhuman and degrading treatment and attempted assassination by his abductors. He reserves his right to take legal action against yourself,” the lawyers said.

Muchadehama and Makoni said during his horrific experience Piki discovered that his documented of testimony was the reason behind the kidnapping.

“Our client advises that you gave him a slot to testify as a witness on the 26th of November 2018. He in turn gave you the documentary evidence upon which his testimony would be based. The documentary evidence was accompanied with a summary of his testimony.

“Our client advises that the abductors were continuously referring to the contents of the document which he had submitted to you and which was known by yourself and no one else. “He further advises that from this horrific experience, he learnt that the sole reason behind his abduction and attempted assassination was that document which he intended to use during his testimony before the commission,” the letter said.

Despite confirmation that the letter had been submitted, the Commission of Inquiry spokesperson, John Masuku said he was yet to verify if the secretariat was in possession of such a memo.

Piki’s lawyers have advised Motlanthe to reveal the identity of the people whom he shared the document with.

They also requested that Motlanthe helps the ZRP with information that could lead to the arrest of his abductors and guarantee his safety before they would hold him responsible for the kidnapping.

“Meanwhile, our client requests you to assist the police with investigations as he believes you are key to finding his abductors and bring them to justice.

“You impress it upon the authorities that the safety of our client was compromised and that they should give an undertaking to guarantee his safety, otherwise we would not hesitate to hold you responsible,” Muchadehama and Makoni added.

However, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has dismissed Piki’s kidnap story alleging the senior officer was discharged from the army for having an affair with his subordinate’s wife.

ZDF spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi said Piki was working with unscrupulous political opposition voices to denigrate the forces.

“We are disturbed by false allegations peddled in some sections of the private media insinuating that… Piki, a former member of the Zimbabwe National Army, was abducted by masked armed men suspected to be State security agents using a vehicle similar to those allocated for use by senior Zimbabwe National Army officers,” said Col Mugwisi.

“While it is true that Piki once served in the Zimbabwe National Army as a senior officer, he is not a retired colonel.

“He became an ordinary citizen after losing his commission when he was tried, convicted and cashiered by a General Court Martial for scandalous conduct of an officer on August 8, 2013.

“Piki had involved himself in an illicit love affair with his subordinate’s wife who was also his junior serving member of the Zimbabwe National Army. Sadly, Piki was aware of the drastic consequences of such an illicit affair for serving members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.”

This comes as the Commission of Inquiry last week concluded investigations into the August 1 killings after gathering testimonies from different individuals and organizations in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru and Mutare.

The public hearings which were characterized by interesting and dramatic testimonies began in October.

The Commission has since submitted it Executive Summary to the presidents and is expected to give him the full report before end of the month.

VIDEOS LOADINF BELOW…

By Own Correspondent| First lady Auxilia Mnangagwa’s Angel of Hope Foundation has rolled out sustainable projects set to empower over 2 000 families.

Mai Mnangagwa, visited Kanyemba where she expressed optimism that the sustainable projects would bring development to marginalised communities.

Said Mai Mnangagwa:

“I was delighted today to be in Kanyemba, where the Angel of Hope Foundation rolled out further sustainable projects that will empower over 2000 families.

We are committed to the economic development of all marginalised communities, and we will continue to work in areas like Kanyemba to provide opportunities and support to the most vulnerable Zimbabweans.”

Zanu PF party leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa has pleaded for an amicable resolving of differences and contradictions within the confines of his party constitution and never in public or at rallies.

Mnangagwa was addressing the Women’s League National Assembly 2018 at the party headquarters in Harare this (Friday) evening.

There was jubilation as the Women’s League leaders from all the ten provinces of the country met to review the performance of the wing in the past year and examining the challenges encountered.

Mnangagwa praised the role played by women in the party saying without the Women’s League the party which is a three legged pot cannot stand.

He urged them to use their strength and resilience and power of numbers to mobilise to rebuild the economy and March towards vision 2030 and to recruit for the party without the use force. – MORE FOLLOWS – state media

VIDEO LOADING ….

“I’m in Bulawayo… In solidarity with Dr Dumiso Dabengwa at the launch of the Dumiso Dabengwa Foundation.We must honour our liberation struggle Icons and preserve their much cherished legacy.Embracing our past secures our future!” VIDEO LOADING BELOW:

A letter which circulated yesterday claiming MDC Deputy President Elias Mudzuri has been suspended, is false and misleading.

The party spokesman has issued the below announcement:

The MDC informs the media and the public that information circulating on social media and have also been published on some news cites pertaining suspension of Vice President Mudzuri is false.

The leadership only met to discuss the crisis as well as shaping the party’s intervention to difuse the people’s plight.

The MDC made resolutions to this effect and made them public.

For the avoidance of doubt we restate resolutions we published in our previous statement.

That the party noted that the socio-economic crisis is worsening and no solution is being profered by government.

That the crisis is directly linked to the legitimacy question following a stolen election.

The party resolved to wind up ongoing consultations on the crisis.

That the party will continue to concientise the masses on the need for action.

And that the party will lead country wide demonstrations in line with section 59 of the Constitution.

More importantly the party reaffirmed the five point plan proposed by President Chamisa as the only viable way out of crisis.

The party committed to offering alternative policies against the failed ones pursued by ZANUPF.

Any other said resolution is an act of desperation and an attempt to sow discord within the people’s movement.

Jacob Mafume
MDC National Spokesperson

Terrence Mawawa| Acie Lumumba, wrongly believes that the outcome of yesterday’s hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Commitee (SRRC) was to make Emmerson Mnangagwa’s life harder and position Hon Tendai Biti’s as the most powerful politician in Zimbabwe, observers have said.

Ms Miriam Mutizwa, an activist based in the UK, said: “From where I stand, the purpose of the meeting which was the outgoing Senator Flake’s last one, was to get an update on Zimbabwe’s compliance with the conditions set out in the ZIDERA Amendment Act.

Indeed, one can easily and erroneously conclude that the purpose of the meeting was to endorse Hon. Biti or interfere with the Zimbabwean’s law enforcement processes.

Mr. Lumumba makes a bold statement that: “Tendai Biti is right now the most powerful politician in Zimbabwe,” yet fail to provide any facts to support this. Indeed, Hon. Biti stands accused of playing a part in causing the events of 1 August 2018.

It is not in dispute that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) was deployed on the day. It is not clear who deployed the forces and on what authority that decision was made and executed.

It may be arguable about whose bullets caused the deaths on the day but it cannot be disputed that the army was deployed to manage the situation.

The message that was clear from Senators Coons and Flake was that the army played a positive role in the loss of life and nothing will change their position that any person outside the army can be legitimately held culpable for causing the loss of life.

Mr. Lumumba knows and ought to know that according to a third party observer, it would be a travesty of justice if no one in the Executive branch of President Mnangagwa is held liable for this unfortunate tragedy.

It seems self-evident that President Mnangagwa has earned himself the benefit of doubt from the Senators who have had the privilege of engaging him personally.

However, it is clear that someone has to take the blame and the only candidate for this would appear to be Vice President Chiwenga who was the Minister of Defence at the material time.

It is also the case that a judgment exists per Justice Mangota that in terms of s 37 of POSA, Hon Chiwenga pressed the fateful button that led to the deployment of the ZDF and the subsequent loss of lives.

Although s 37 of POSA is inconsistent with s 213 of the Constitution, there are no fingers pointing to the President as the person who should be held culpable.

The Mohlante Commission has completed its work but the report has not been made public. However, if the report absolves Hon. Chiwenga, its credibility will be questioned even by the Americans.

So the question of Biti’s importance is not created in Washington DC but is brewed in Zimbabwe. Biti has been fingered by the system outside the Commission as the person of interest in the matter.

Biti has been charged not by the Americans as Lumumba would like the public to believe but by President Mnangagwa’s administration.

If Biti is found guilty as charged, then it means that Hon. Chiwenga would be off the hook.

So it cannot be concluded that Biti or the US Senators created the facts to make Biti relevant let alone that his ordeal including the Zambian affair were self-created.

It is important that we deal with facts and not fiction in trying to establish whether the US administration is biased or has a preference as to who should be at the helm of the Zimbabwean government.

Lumumba proceeds to state as fact that: “Biti is now more powerful than both ED & NC,” without having any regard to the unfortunate circumstances that unfolded where no one else has been charged so far in relation to the 1 August 2018 affair.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police deny any culpability and so does the ZDF. President Mnangagwa has alreay expressed his personal opinion that the loss of life was caused by the opposition leaders who instigated the demonstration because the election results was not in the favour.

So in terms of the system, Biti is guilty as charged. In the premises, the assertion by Lumumba that Biti is more powerful than ED and NC if not mischievous is meant to create confusion.

How could Biti, a victim to many, be the author of his own ordeal and persecution?

The unanimous opinion expressed by the Senators and the witnesses with the exception of Mr. Joe Mutizwa was that there can be no basis for reviewing the sanctions regime before the issue of Biti and the outcome of the Commission of Inquiry is resolved and known.

The point that may be missed by pedestrian observers like Lumumba is that the Zimbabwean government has created its own predicament that can only be fixed if the rule of law is respected.

The President is already part of the dispute and Biti has been invited in the dispute by the police. It follows that that it is in President Mnangagwa’s power to cause the charges against Biti to be withdrawn and for the President to start taking responsibility for the actions done in his name and administration.

To suggest that: “It requires intelligence of the highest political order to understand this! The American government have made ED’s life harder (bull horn formation),” is to miss the point that no rational person would seek to interfere with domestic matters of Zimbabwe but the reasons why the sanctions have been imposed are confirmed by the manner in which the events of 1 August have been handled.

What I saw yesterday were Senators trying their best to lean towards Zimbabwe’s cause by confirming that everything required to remove sanctions is within the control of Zimbabweans and their government.

It was clear that although Hon. Mthuli Ncube tried in vain to invite himself to the hearing, there is nothing new that he has to change the position that has been known since 2001 that without reforms, there can be no basis to embrace Zimbabwe.

It is incorrect to allege that anything to the effect that America does not want to work with Zimbabwe was said.

The issue of the currency and the implications of the decision by the Committee that the conditions for lifting sanctions have not arisen, does not lead to the conclusion by Lumumba that: “No America = No American Dollars = inevitable economic collapse (it’s just a matter of time/unless we abandon their currency).”

It is also wrong for Lumumba to conclude naively that: “August 1 ; the Americans want Chiwenga under the bus. This is a good way for them to split ED and Chiwenga, but also for them to avert a Chiwenga presidency,” when it is common cause that the Americans did not cause the events of 1 August to happen and there would be no benefit for them to divide ED from Chiwenga.

What is being proposed is that the culture of impunity must come to an end? Zimbabwe requires a new beginning and the events of 1 August and the subsequent choices and actions do not give confidence that the ghost of Mugabe has left the stage.

It is also mischievous for Lumumba to boldly assert that: “Free Biti; Biti is more familiar with Americans than Chamisa, Biti is their preferred opposition leader and they will do the needful to prop his rise. Millions will now be thrown towards civic society efforts aligned to Biti,” when the facts of this matter find Biti at the core of the dispute.

Chamisa has not been charged and it is the case that the government of Zimbabwe and not the Americans have chosen their target. To suggest that the sword chosen and used by President Mnangagwa was instigated deliberately for Biti to allegedly upstage his President, Chamisa, would be dishonest and disingenuous.

Lummba then concludes by stating as follows: “I will explain the rest on Sunday #TLF but the Americans have essentially weakened ED and strengthened MDC. It’s not game over but aya anonzi ma1000,” as if he knows better about the matter.

It is this kind of amateurish and infantile approach to public policy matters that I find frustrating. We have a law that is now 17 years old that was passed by the US government to encourage Zimbabweans to be responsible and accountable for the choices they make. It would be futile to take the person who imposes sanctions on another for granted.

What is required is that we take heed of the comments made yesterday as Zimbabweans and begin to self-correct rather than continue to bury our heads in the sand.

Our constitution compels the President and all of us to promote, protect and uphold the values and principles entrenched in our constitution.

All that we are being asked is to comply with our constitution. I have started a group called Legal Eagles to provide a platform for us to raise awareness that unless we live up to the promise of our constitution, poverty, unemployment and inequality will be our permanent friends.

I have taken issue with the legality and constitutionality of a law called the Reconstruction of State-Indebted Insolvent Companies Act. This law was first applied in respect of SMM and has since been applied to other companies including Hwange Colliery Company Limited.

I was surprised that the US Senators could only identify POSA and AIPPA as the only two laws that need urgent attention.

I was also shocked to learn that Mr. Joe Mutizwa who claimed to represent listed companies in Zimbabwe did not mention the fact that Hwange shareholders were divested of their relationship with the company pursuant to the operation a Ministerial order.

Indeed, if we cannot put Mr. Mutizwa to task then would it be justifiable to blame ZIDERA? I hope that Lumumba would soon stop to treat serious matters as if they are trivial.

I look forward to working with anyone interested in changing the Zimbabwean narrative starting with the likes of Lumumba.

Terrence Mawawa|Zanu PF national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri has threatened to expose and expel war veterans sympathetic to MDC A leader Nelson Chamisa from the ruling party.

Addressing Zanu PF members at a meeting in Masvingo on Monday, Muchinguri vowed to expose former liberation fighters she claimed were sympathetic to Chamisa.

“We know that some of you are leaking information to the MDC.The war veterans’ association has been infiltrated by sellouts who are working with Chamisa to disrupt government programmes.

We know you and very soon we will expose you. True war veterans are ready to sacrifice their lives in defence of the revolution,” said Muchinguri.

“Why are you sabotaging the ruling party’s efforts to revive the economy? Such malcontents will be expelled from Zanu PF,” declared Muchinguri.

Terrence Mawawa|In a bid to please Zanu PF functionaries, party national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri described MDC A leader Nelson Chamisa as an enemy of the state.

Buoyed by partisan ruling party members at a meeting in Masvingo on Monday, Muchinguri described Chamisa as “the enemy” and added elements sympathetic to the youthful MDC A leader would be severely punished.

“Why do you want to join Chamisa the enemy.He is our enemy and you must always remember that,” said Muchinguri to a thunderous applause from ruling party members.

Social commentator and Sociology graduate Edmore Muchechetere said instead of frothing at the mouth in a desperate bid to denigrate Chamisa, Zanu PF officials official must concentrate on coming up with strategies to revive the dwindling economy.

“We are not concerned about what Chamisa has done or what he has not done, that is not the crux of the political affairs in this country. On the contrary Zanu PF officials are supposed to run around and find ways of healing the sick economy,” said Muchechetere.

Terrence Mawawa|A Masvingo bar attendant reportedly dropped dead following an overnight drinking binge.

Police sources told ZimEye.com yesterday Best Murindi was found dead at the Civic Centre Gardens in the ancient city on Friday morning.

The police said Murindi was spotted in a drunken stupor by a Masvingo City Council employee a few hours before he was found dead.

“We are still investigating the cause of Murindi’s death but preliminary reports indicate he was excessively drunk a few hours before his death,” police sources said.