By James Gwati – The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), rebel member Sebenzo Tshabangu has escalated tensions by threatening to terminate party leader Nelson Chamisa’s membership.

The self-appointed interim secretary-general has declared that even if Chamisa decides to leave the CCC, he would be prohibited from using the party’s image, particularly Chamisa’s face.

Tshabangu’s argument hinges on the claim that Chamisa willingly ceded ownership of his image to the party, imposing restrictions on its use by any other political entity.

He issued a stern warning of legal consequences if Chamisa were to violate this purported agreement, stating:
“I have no doubt in my mind that President Chamisa presented his face as a symbol for us to use, and we registered that face. So he can’t claim today that it’s his face. That’s the face of the party, and we are going to continue using it. Nobody is going to use that face. We will stop anybody who is going to use that face, save for the party. He cannot use that face outside, unfortunately, the CCC party.”

Tshabangu asserts that should Chamisa choose to depart from the party and employ his image elsewhere; legal action will be pursued.

Despite the existing disagreements, Tshabangu remains optimistic about resolving these issues amicably, stressing that they do not revolve around ideological differences.

While temporarily holding the position of secretary-general in the CCC party, Tshabangu faces opposition from senior members, including Nelson Chamisa, who dispute the legitimacy of such a role within the party.

Furthermore, there are claims that Tshabangu is not even a party member.

However, Tshabangu maintains his position, supporting it with an affidavit as evidence of his appointment.

He refrained from disclosing the appointing authority but clarified that the role was granted due to the dissatisfaction of certain senior members with Chamisa’s strategic approach for the 2023 elections.

By-The Nelson Chamisa-led CCC senior member, Jacob Mafume, has bounced back as Harare’s mayor.

Mafume defeated Elvis Ruzani by a vote of 22 to 15.

Mafume was mayor and was replaced by Ian Makone following the harmonised 23-24 August 2023 elections.

The post of mayor became vacant when Lovejoy Chitengu, who was elected as councillor for Ward 36 in the August 2023 general elections, was recalled by Tshabangu.

Chitengu had replaced Ian Makone, who was also recalled in November.

Chitengu was spared from that recall due to a spelling error in his name, but Tshabangu ordered another recall.

Tshabangu argues that the recalls were necessary because party leader Nelson Chamisa imposed the targeted CCC representatives during the party’s controversial candidate selection process.

Some political observers believe that Chamisa used a different candidate selection process to eliminate opponents and favour loyalists.

Others see the recalls as an attempt by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to weaken the opposition.

Mafume’s return as mayor marks a significant shift in Harare’s leadership.

However, the frequent changes in mayors and the internal conflicts within the CCC raise concerns about stability and effective governance.

Mafume is Harare’s fourth mayor in just four months.

By-Zimbabwe has been ranked one of the countries with a high alcohol consumption rate per capita in the world.

According to a survey by Wise Voter, an American global institute that researches politics, health, climate and economy, on average, an individual Zimbabwean consumes 62.8 litres of pure alcohol annually.

Tunisia came second with 36.6 litres of consumption per capita. Read the report:

Zimbabwe 62.8 litres, Tunisia 36.6 litres, Eswatini 34.4 litres, Maldives 33.7 litres, Afghanistan 33.5 litres, Namibia 32.4 litres, South Africa 29.9 litres, Algeria 29.1 litres, Turkey 28.5 litres and Iran 28.4 litres.

Zimbabwe has the highest alcohol per capita globally. An individual Zimbabwean may consume 62.8 litres of pure alcohol when compared to the alcoholic beverages they would have taken in 12 months, with a prevalence of alcohol dependence of 2.2%.

The survey report said that one serving of alcohol was classified as 0.0177 fluid litres of alcohol. It said:

This corresponds with a 0.354 litre can/bottle of beer, one 0.148 litre glass of wine, or one 0.044 litre shot of liquor.

When comparing alcohol consumption across countries, organisations will look at litres of pure alcohol.

The Kingdom of Eswatini, which is a SADC member like Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Namibia, was placed in third place with 34.4 litres of alcohol consumption per capita, with a prevalence of alcohol dependence of 2.5%.

All top three countries, according to the report, do not have alcohol illegality but drinking is allowed to people above the age of 18.

According to Delta Beverages, Zimbabweans drank record amounts of lager beer in 2022.

Factors that contribute to varying levels of alcohol consumption across different countries include cultural and social norms toward alcohol, the availability and accessibility of alcohol, income levels and economic stability, social factors, such as peer pressure, cultural celebrations, and social expectations, as well as religious beliefs and practices.

-NewsDay

By James Gwati-Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba has announced the temporary relinquishment of official duties by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to his two deputies, Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, for one month.

The move comes as he embarks on his traditional annual leave.

According to Charamba, Mnangagwa will take a month-long break within the country.

Charamba explained that during this time, both Deputy Presidents Chiwenga and Mohadi will alternate in assuming the responsibilities of the presidency.

In a statement to the state media, Charamba clarified, “His Excellency the President, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, this week begins his traditional annual month-long official leave. He intends to spend the break in the country and will interrupt it now and then to fulfill certain fixtures requiring his personal attention.”

This temporary transfer of power is a customary practice, allowing the President to take a much-needed rest while ensuring the seamless functioning of the government.

Charamba extended well-wishes to President Mnangagwa, the First Lady, and the First Family, expressing hopes for a restful break and conveying Merry Christmas and best wishes for a prosperous 2024.

As Zimbabweans bid farewell to another painful year under the failing President Mnangagwa’s leadership, the nation wishes he would not return and be replaced during this period of annual leave.

By James Gwati-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has relinquished his official duties, handing over power to his two deputies, Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, for a period of one month.

The move comes as he embarks on his traditional annual leave.

According to George Charamba, the presidential spokesperson, Mnangagwa will be taking a month-long break within the country.

Charamba explained that during this time, both Deputy Presidents Chiwenga and Mohadi will alternate in assuming the responsibilities of the presidency.

In a statement to the state media, Charamba clarified, “His Excellency the President, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, this week begins his traditional annual month-long official leave. He intends to spend the break in the country and will interrupt it now and then to fulfill certain fixtures requiring his personal attention.”

This temporary transfer of power is a customary practice, allowing the President to take a much-needed rest while ensuring the seamless functioning of the government.

Charamba extended well-wishes to President Mnangagwa, the First Lady, and the First Family, expressing hopes for a restful break and conveying Merry Christmas and best wishes for a prosperous 2024.

As Zimbabweans bid farewell to another painful year under the failing President Mnangagwa’s leadership, the nation wishes he would not return and be replaced during this period of annual leave.

A security guard who made headlines last week for allegedly helping a gang that stole US$238 000 from the premises he was guarding, was back in court yesterday facing fresh charges of conspiring to commit robbery.

Owen Muteeri (28) was remanded in custody pending his bail ruling today by Harare regional magistrate Mr Donald Ndirowei.

Prosecuting, Mr Anesu Chirenje alleged that Muteeri conspired with his accomplices, who are still at large, to rob Online Logistics.

Muteeri’s accomplices were armed with unidentified pistols and manhandled two security guards, before tying them with shoelaces and a rope from one of the security guard’s hat.

They then went on to remove burglar bars from the reception office and entered the block where they broke into the offices of the accountant and directors’ and ransacked them.

The gang broke into another workshop where they stole a CCTV DVR and a Samsung M33 cellphone belonging to one of the security guards.

They then proceeded to the next yard where Muteeri is a security guard and they stole US$238 000 after using grinders to force open the safe where the cash was being kept.

When the gang executed the robbery, they told the guards that their intention was to rob Online Logistics, and Muteeri was given US$5 000 as his share. On arrest he helped police recover US$2 700. Muteeri has already been granted bail on his first charge of unlawful entry.

-The Herald

Long winding queues have resurfaced at the Civil Registry offices in Bulawayo as scores of people continue to flood the facility to apply for passports and other national identity documents.

The sudden increase in the number of people streaming to the Civil Registry could probably be attributed to the hike in passport fees in January coupled with the festive season when most people would be planning on travelling out of the country for a holiday.

The new passport application fee was recently announced in the 2024 national budget proposals by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube.

Following the sudden rush for passports, the Civil Registry Department extended the working hours of all its e-passport offices across the country. When Bulawayo Bureau visited the Civil Registry offices in Bulawayo yesterday, there was a hive of activity with long queues which are synonymous with the festive season.

Usually during this time of the year, hordes of people, among them diasporans, swarm the Civil Registry offices across the country to apply for travel documents.

In interviews, some applicants said they had queued for more than 10 hours to apply for a passport while others said they were forced to sleep outside the building to beat the queues.

“I have been coming here for the past two days. I am trying to beat the congestion as well as the increase in fees. I am trying to save the little that I have so that I enjoy Christmas with my family and possibly get an opportunity to travel abroad” said Mr Pride Dube.

Some people alleged that Civil Registry staff were prioritising those applying for emergency passports and deliberately ignoring ordinary passport applicants.

“The staff are on a go-slow and we have to wait for long hours. We are in the wet season now and you can imagine waking up early and getting soaked while standing in the queue,” said Mr Leeroy Khumalo with a long face.

Another applicant, Ms Sithabisiwe Ngwenya said: “This is a tiresome process and although we are aware that they have extended the working hours, their pace is slow. What is the point of extending when they are going to just serve a few people?”

Mr Butholezwe Sibindi who is based in South Africa, said he had been queuing since Friday last week.

“I came from South Africa with the hope that things had improved but alas it is still the same story. This is disappointing because I have been stuck in these long queues for days instead of spending quality time with my family,” he said.

In a statement, the Civil Registry Department said it has extended working hours for all its offices across the country’s 10 provinces.

“The Civil Registry Department wishes to advise its valuable clients that it has extended its working hours in the passport section with immediate effect. The passport offices will be open Monday to Friday from 7am to 7pm during weekdays and from 8am to 3pm on Saturdays,” read the statement.

The department said the extension of working hours is in response to an increase in the number of clients visiting their passport offices.

“The festive season is the busiest period for the department. With industry and schools closed, and returning citizens from the diaspora taking advantage of their visit to have their documents processed, the department witnesses an influx of clients visiting its passport offices,” read the statement.

The department said the recent announcement by the Government to increase passport fees with effect from January has also contributed to clients rushing to apply for passports before the deadline.

“In this regard, the department is extending its operating hours to facilitate efficient e-passport services in response to the high demand.”

E-passports are issued in Harare, Bulawayo, Chinhoyi, Gwanda, Gweru, Lupane, Marondera, Beitbridge, Chipinge, Chitungwiza, Hwange, Mazowe, Mwenezi and Zvishavane civil registry offices.

Passport applicants are supposed to bring their original birth certificates, national identity documents, and marriage certificates.

The Civil Registry Department charges US$120 for ordinary passports which takes seven working days to be out while an emergency or express passports costs US$220 and comes out within 48 hours.

The Registrar General Mr Henry Machiri said during the festive season, the numbers swell with most of the applicants being diasporans and school children.

“The festive season is our busiest in terms of passport applications, and most of our citizens who are in the diaspora want to apply for documents. Schools have closed and so we are expecting all these people to be coming now since they need to be there physically for biometrics,” he said.

“So, the number will increase since most people want to beat the deadline to avoid paying more money. In the proposed national budget, the fees for passports will increase in the coming month and some people want to beat the deadline and submit their applications now.”

Mr Machiri urged people whose passports are ready to visit their offices and collect the documents.

The e-passport scheme was launched by President Mnangagwa in December last year after the Government entered into a partnership with a Lithuanian company, Garsu Pasaulis, on a build, operate, and transfer (BOT) basis to produce new passports that meet modern international standards and allow Zimbabweans to travel without additional complications.

Before the opening of the facility in Bulawayo, e-passports were obtained in Harare only.

The implementation of the e-passport project resonates with the National Development Strategy One (NDS1) objective of modernising the economy through the use of ICTs and digital technology, as the country rallies towards the attainment of Vision 2030. The Herald

By A Correspondent- Three Chitungwiza men appeared before magistrate Donald Ndirowei yesterday facing three counts of defrauding CABS Bank of US$1 000 and ZWL$3 million.

Maxwell Usayi (61), Goliath Taodzera (52) and Christopher Mukawu (47) were remanded in custody to tomorrow for bail application.

The State opposed bail citing overwhelming evidence against the trio.

State prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti alleged that sometime in October this year, the trio hatched a plan to defraud CABS bank by withdrawing money from an account which was dormant.

The trio is alleged to have manufactured a counterfeit metal driver’s licence with number 28918AH and Victor Dube’s identification number but having Usayi’s face.

It is alleged that on October 25, the suspects went to CABS Avondale branch where they withdrew US$1 000 from Victor Dube’s account which had US$100.

They also withdrew ZWL$2 829 000 from the same account and a further ZWL$479 000.

Mutsokoti told the court that the bank teller became suspicious that the drivers’ licence they tendered was fake.

The teller alerted Dube who made a police report leading to arrest of the trio. NewsDay

By A Correspondent- Government has set in motion plans to incorporate dedicated learning areas on corruption, ethics and integrity into the national school curriculum under an initiative aimed at equipping learners with the knowledge and values necessary to combat corruption and build a more ethical society.

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education have since embarked on a nationwide stakeholder consultation programme to develop a framework for the rollout of the initiative.

Prosecutor-General Justice Loyce Matanda-Moyo made the revelations recently while addressing delegates at the 10th session of the conference of State parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) in Georgia, the United States.

UNCAC is a legally binding international treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 that addresses all aspects of corruption — including prevention, criminalisation and international cooperation.

Zimbabwe signed the convention in February 2004 and ratified it in March 2007.

“As a State party to these conventions and protocols, Zimbabwe affirms that corruption is a serious problem that needs to be tackled and commits itself to fight the scourge.

“Zimbabwe has, therefore, undertaken to put in place measures and mechanisms that eliminate corruption.

“ZACC, in partnership with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, has commenced nationwide consultations with the intention to introduce a curriculum on corruption, ethics and integrity in schools and universities starting from early childhood learning,” she said.

In countries where such learning areas have been introduced, primary school learners engage in interactive activities and are exposed to stories designed to cultivate an understanding of honesty, fairness and responsible citizenship.

As learners progress to secondary school, they delve deeper into the complex realities of corruption, analysing its causes, consequences and potential solutions through discussion, critical thinking exercises and real-world case studies.

As part of measures to fight graft, she said, Government instituted comprehensive legislative reforms, including enacting laws that engender transparency.

She cited the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act of 2018; the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act of 2019; and the Companies and Other Business Entities Act of 2019 as some of the pieces of legislation put in place to enhance the fight against corruption.

“The Government conferred powers of arrest to ZACC officers through an amendment to the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act,” she added.

“Zimbabwe launched the National Anti-Corruption Strategy for 2020-2024, which encompasses a multi-stakeholder approach in the fight against corruption.”

The strategy, said Justice Matanda-Moyo, has provided an inclusive platform for Government, civil society organisations, law-enforcement agencies and the private sector to collaborate in the fight against graft.

She added: “Zimbabwe introduced the National Development Strategy 1 2021-2025, which promotes production and productivity through implementation of policies for ease of doing business, strengthening of property rights and combating corruption, among other issues.

“Government’s support for anti-corruption efforts has significantly increased.

“The country has established specialised courts at the Magistrates and High Courts of Zimbabwe.

“The conviction rate of corruption cases has increased to 72 percent.

“As a corruption prevention measure, ZACC facilitated the establishment of integrity committees within public sector institutions.

“This strategy revolves around building strong institutions that can detect and put measures to fight corruption within their spheres of control.”

To date, over 100 institutions — including local authorities, independent commissions, State enterprises and universities — have established integrity committees, she said.

Next year, she added, the concept will be cascaded to all ministries.

Justice Matanda-Moyo was leading a delegation comprising representatives from the Asset Forfeiture Unit, the police and the National Prosecuting Authority and the Ministries of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, and Foreign Affairs and International Trade. Sunday Mail

By A Correspondent- Commuters miraculously escaped unscathed when a kombi was hit by a locomotive after the driver failed to give way to the approaching train.

In a statement on X, the National Railways of Zimbabwe said the passengers and the driver fled from the scene and the police in Harare are investigating the case.

Members of the public and motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution on and around the railway line to avoid loss of life and injuries.

“A commuter omnibus carrying passengers was hit by a locomotive at the Paisley Road level crossing in Harare after the driver failed to give way to the approaching loco. The driver and all his passengers fled from the scene on foot. The matter is being investigated by the police.”

“As NRZ, we keep encouraging members of the public and motorists to exercise extreme caution on and around the railway line to avoid loss of life and injuries,” reads the statement. The Chronicle

Details of how the dramatic and far-reaching recalls of main opposition CCC MPs, senators and councillors were plotted and their reason have emerged.

The plot was started through consultations soon after the August general elections among those CCC activists who are now considered renegades by party leader Nelson Chamisa and his allies.

Their main grievance was what they felt and described as imposition of candidates on the party candidates list prior to the elections during CCC’s unique primaries, which the party termed a consensus-based nomination process.

Following nomination, there was a vetting process through which the recalls activists claim candidates were imposed.

In order to execute the recalls, a mechanism was needed to drive the process which required a strategy and tactical approach to work in an environment where the ruling Zanu PF — which wanted a two-thirds parliamentary majority — had failed to secure it.

Taking advantage of the CCC’s lack of traditional party organisational structure, national structures, office-bearers, pecking order, offices, bank accounts and other relevant administrative services, the disgruntled activists formed their own structure: Interim Steering Committee.

The committee has Dingilizwe Tshuma, former legislator for Entumbane-Njube constituency in Bulawayo as chair; Albert Mhlanga (former Pumula MP and deputy); Sengezo Tshabangu (secretary-general); Khaliphani Phugeni (information); Sikhululekile Moyo (interim chairperson for women); Nomvula Mguni (ex-proportional representation MP), Mbuso Siso (treasurer) and Benoni Ncube (youth).

This is the self-imposed CCC structure that implemented the recalls.

The recalls were later hijacked by other disgruntled CCC officials, Zanu PF and state security agents.

Siso blames CCC senior official Tendai Biti and his allies like Jacob Mafume for “hijacking the process and coming up with the recalls in Harare”.

He says his group has no intention to remove party leader Nelson Chamisa, but to correct “many wrongs” within the movement.

Siso adds recalls have ended and were never intended to trigger a sweeping wave of removals of legitimately elected people’s representatives, but to boot out imposed MPs, senators and councillors who don’t come from local communities, hence do not represent the legitimate interests of the people.

He says the group behind the recalls is not working in collaboration with Zanu PF because “this is an internal matter” and the “ruling party is a national problem for all of us”.

The underlying motivation of the recalls, Siso says, was to deal internal impositions of candidates in Bulawayo, but the plan has now been hijacked by some Harare political actors, including those loyal to Biti.

Biti has denied association with Tshabangu and the recalls. Siso says all recalls in Harare were done by activists loyal to Biti and not by Tshabangu.

Sources say some Zanu PF elements have also joined the fray.

In a wide-ranging interview, Siso says: “The plan from the beginning was to recall imposed MPs and other representatives who do not originally come from Bulawayo communities. Local people, those who come from particular localities concerned, should represent local communities. It doesn’t matter whether it’s in Bulawayo, Harare, Masvingo, Mutare, Gweru, Kwekwe or Chinhoyi. The principle is that local politics requires local people to lead because they know local issues, the people’s history, grievances, interests, their problems and potential solutions,” he says.

“When you bring people from elsewhere who don’t know the local history, culture and issues, they can’t be useful representatives of the people. Local politics is about local issues in a national context.”

Siso adds: “That’s our motivation, but the process has been hijacked in Harare by Biti’s people. I have heard people say Zanu PF also hijacked the process, but i can’t speak for them. What I know is Biti and Mafume hijacked the process in Harare. It’s no longer what we intended at the start, but there are internal CCC issues which we still need to resolve. We will keep pushing for those issues to be addressed. We have told Chamisa about them before repeatedly, but they were not dealt with. We have no intention of removing Chamisa at all, but we want to help him to stamp out the problem of impositions. We are not working with Zanu PF, but if others are now doing that they are doing it in their own individual capacities, not as part of our interim steering committee. We want a strong opposition to fight for change, not a party of friends and their supporters with imposed candidates.” The NewsHawks

A former Mukuru employee, Tinotenda Zephania Gunde, faces charges of theft of US$19,536 and R39,430, and Samsung cellphones from a Mukuru branch in Filabusi.

Gunde, who had left his position the previous week, allegedly collaborated with three others in the crime.

The theft was discovered on December 14, 2023 when an employee of Talen Vision, where the Mukuru outlet is located, arrived at the shop to find the back door open and the door leading to Mukuru’s safe room open.

The shop employee then alert the manager at Mukuru, who discovered that the safe had been opened and money stolen, with only US$2000 remaining.

The theft was reported to police and investigations led to Gunde’s arrest.

Gunde voluntarily led the police to DDF Training Centre camp in Gwanda, where he had stashed the money and only US$500 and R1 600 was recovered as well as a Samsung galaxy A13 cellphone.

He appeared at the Filabusi Magistrate Court before Sukoluhle Belinda Nunu on December 16, 2023 where he sought to apply for bail but his application was dismissed and he was remanded in custody to December 29, 2023 for a possible trial in Filabusi.

In the state’s case, the prosecutor, Naledi Muleya said Gunde unlawfully entered the premises and stole cash and other valuables.

“On the 13th day of December 2023 and at Talenvision shop Filabusi, Tinotenda Zephania Gunde unlawfully, intentionally and without permission from Talen Vision shop represented by Silani Tshuma,the lawful occupier of the premises concerned or without other lawful authority, entered into Talen Vision shop by breaking a burglar bar to gain entry , contrary to the provisions of the said Act,” she said.

Muleya said Gunde took advantage of the absence of people at the shop premises because the complainant had knocked off and secured the premises using a burglar bar and padlocks.

“On the 13th of December at around 17:00 hours Nkosana Sibanda a Mukuru Send Money Home Teller knocked off duty and balanced cash amounting to US$1 8586 and R3 9430 which he secured in a safe as well as three cellphones, a Samsung Galaxy A13, Samsung Galaxy A02 as well as a Lenovo M10 tablet. The cash was in US$100, US$20, US$10, US$5 and US$1 notes denominations,” she said

“On the same day and during night the accused took advantage of the knowledge of the premises as well as the knowledge of the secret codes used to open the safe and proceeded to Talen Vision shop as outlined in count one and gained entry,”said Muleya.

“Upon gaining entry the accused went straight to the victim’s safe and broke the door and entered ,”Muleya said.

“Accused opened the safe using the secret code and took cash amounting to $1 8586 and R3 9430 and three cellphones. On 14 December 2023, the victim, an employee of Talen Vision arrived at the shop to commence work and found the back door as well as a complaint’s safe room door open, she called the complainant who were to check and discovered that their safe had been opened upon exiting the scene. The recovered cash amounted to $2000.00,” said Muleya. CITE

A Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) Umkhombandlela rally, set for Thursday at Stanley Square Hall in Bulawayo has been postponed by police who claimed they were ordered to postpone all political gatherings until after Christmas for security reasons.

MRP officials claimed the police alleged that the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party had also threatened to protest on the same day.

Initially, MRP was granted permission to hold their rally when they notified the authorities three weeks ago but police later wrote to party officials stating the rally had to be postponed to a later date due to “perceived security threats.”

“Reference is being given to our consultations [meetings) with Thompson� NDLOVU the MRP Organising Secretary for Bulawayo Province and Thembisa MPOFU. The MRP National Chairman, on 18 and 19 December 2023 in terms of section 8(3) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA) pertaining to the above subject matter,” read the letter from Chief Superintendent N Ushe, Officer Commanding Bulawayo West District.

“The Police and your party representatives mentioned above mutually agreed that the intended meeting which was scheduled for 21 December 2023 from 0900 – 1700 hours be postponed to a later date due to the perceived security threats.”

After receiving this letter, MRP officials sought an audience with the police who explained the reason behind the new order.

The rally will now be held on January 13, next year.

According to an MRP official, the Umkhombandlela rally served as a platform for members to chart the party’s future course.

“We wanted to unpack the revolutionary stances that we will take in the coming year. This police act has destroyed our plans and affected the logistics of our members who had already travelled in anticipation. Some members were coming from South Africa, Botswana and other faraway places locally,” the official said. CITE

By A Correspondent | In a development set to trigger a reversal of all the damages by the political imposter, Sengezo Tshabangu, an undercover journalist, running by the name, Cde Mabhunu on Friday offloads the major part of his documentary which was broadcast LIVE on 4th December as the political imposter, Sengezo Tshabangu held a secret meeting with ZANU PF Mabvuku constituency candidate, Scott Sakupwanya’s aide. Details below-

Teachers are up in arms with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) over outstanding payments after the electoral body engaged them as election officers for the disputed August polls.

According to unions representing teachers, educators who participated in various election-related duties are being sent from one office to the next when they inquire about payment.

This is not the first time Zec has clashed with teachers over non-payment for election-related work.

Educators Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general, Tapedza Zhou, threatened court action against the electoral body over the matter.

“Last time, we warned Zec against engaging teachers without contracts as this opened doors to abuse,” Zhou said.

Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe leader, Obert Masaraure, accused Zec of taking teachers for granted.

“Zec has been contacted by individual teachers and the unions with regards to the payment but the electoral body has been pledging but without fulfilling the promise.”

Zec deputy chairperson, Rodney Kiwa, referred to the chief elections officer Utloile Silaigwana when contacted for comment.

He added: “I would advise the unions to approach Mr Silaigwana with the necessary documents which show that they were indeed employed and at which station.”

Efforts to obtain a comment from Silaigwana were fruitless.

He also did not respond to WhatsApp messages sent to him.

Zimbabwe National Teachers Union chief executive, Manuel Nyawo, however, blasted Zec for dishonesty.

“Such dishonest behaviour is uncalled for because it puts the name of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Zanu PF into disrepute because Zec acted on the instructions of the Zanu PF government that was and is still in power,” Nyawo said.

“It’s a miscarriage of justice to see teachers being abused to this extent considering that they are struggling to survive with the little earnings they are getting in the form of salaries.” NewsDay

Human rights lawyers say government and local authorities must be held accountable for cholera deaths as the water-borne disease spreads across the country claiming lives.

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) accused authorities of “dereliction of duty” in the handling of the cholera outbreak.

Zimbabwe is grappling with a third cholera outbreak this year, with cases having been confirmed in all the 10 provinces.

According to the Health and Child Care ministry, Zimbabwe has recorded 200 cholera-related deaths and 130 hospitalisations since February 2023 when the outbreak first surfaced.

“The ongoing cholera outbreak is a chilling reminder of the devastating consequences of failing to provide necessities to the people. The government must act swiftly and effectively to protect lives and prevent further tragedy,” the ZLHR said.

The rights lawyers expressed outrage over preventable deaths from a “medieval disease” in Zimbabwe.

“It is a staggering indictment on both local and central governments that Zimbabwe is still haunted by a medieval disease like cholera,” the lawyers said.

They said officials should be held accountable for their “failure to invest in and adequately manage basic water, sanitation infrastructure and public health facilities”.

ZLHR criticised the sluggish response to the crisis, citing lack of access to clean water, sanitation and proper medical care in affected communities.

They warned that “this unacceptable failure of leadership” constituted a violation of the government’s constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.

“The failure by central and local governments to swiftly respond to the cholera epidemic through providing basic health services, medical treatment and services, clean running water and sanitary facilities to people, is an unacceptable failure of leadership and represents a clear failure by local authorities and government to uphold their constitutional obligations as provided in the Constitution and other regional and international instruments,” ZLHR said.

The rights lawyers urged the government to significantly increase budgetary allocations for water, sanitation and hygiene.

“To arrest the cholera epidemic and prevent recurrent outbreaks of the primitive disease, ZLHR implores local and central governments to seriously embrace their social and economic rights, obligations provided in the Constitution and guarantee progressive realisation of the right to healthcare, the right to safe, clean and potable water for everyone and the right to a clean environment that is not harmful to people’s health or their well-being,” the organisation said.

As cholera spreads, across the country, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has intervened by setting up cholera treatment centres to save lives.

“This move aims to improve access to critical care and prevent further deaths and spread of the disease in vulnerable communities,” WHO said.

The global health agency said upgrading of the cholera treatment centres would lead to increased bed capacity through expanding the facilities to accommodate a larger number of cholera patients.

Health and Child Care minister Douglas Mombeshora said there was a need to improve community engagement to end the scourge.

“We recently received equipment from WHO and we need to identify places where these are needed the most so that we distribute them and help fight the outbreak,” he said.

WHO representative to Zimbabwe, Jean-Marie Dangou added: “These upgrades are crucial to ensure timely and effective care for cholera patients in rural areas. By expanding treatment capacity, improving hygiene and equipping healthcare workers, we can save lives and contain the outbreak.”

The water-borne disease, which spreads through drinking water or eating food contaminated with the cholera bacterium and causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, is now endemic in the country.

Government has responded by banning gatherings in cholera hotspots as it seeks to arrest the spread of the water-borne disease. NewsDay

A Masvingo man, Vetengeni Kwaramba (35), tragically killed his 62-year-old uncle using the wrestling “sharpshooter” move, the court has been told.

This emerged when Kwaramba appeared before Masvingo High Court judge, Justice Munyaradzi Mawadze for trial.

He was initially charged with murder but the matter proceeded based on a statement of agreed facts and he was convicted of culpable homicide on his plea of guilty.

The two resided under Chief Makanganwi, Bikita, albeit in different villages.

On 7 March 2023, both the accused and the now deceased were among mourners attending a funeral wake of their grandfather in Romberai Village, Chief Mazungunye, Bikita.

During a church service, the two were among a group of men slaughtering a beast for relish at the funeral gathering.

The uncle and nephew engaged in-jokes, mocking each other as what usually happens at such funeral gatherings.

Kwaramba had exhibited a premature appetite for roasted beef and his uncle in turn mocked him.

“The accused resorted to some physically violent act akin to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) moves by tackling the 62-year-old.

“Kwaramba held the now deceased’s legs, lifted them to the accused’s chest level and folded them.

“The hapless now deceased was bent over and forced to lie on his waist with his legs pressed and folded.

“The now deceased was resting on his neck, a move called “sharpshooter” in wrestling parlance,” the court heard.

As a result, undue pressure was exerted on the now-deceased’s neck causing a neck fracture.

The now deceased was ferried to Silveira Mission Hospital and later transferred to Masvingo General Hospital where he died on 8 March 2023.

In sentencing Kwaramba the judge considered that soon after realising that he had inadvertently caused the injury on the now deceased he immediately stopped and tried to resuscitate the now deceased.

“The accused atoned for his conduct. The accused and the now deceased’s families are now reconciled and have accepted what happened.

“This gesture paves the way for reconciliation and both families are likely to move on in harmony despite the stigma attached to the accused. The question of restorative justice is critical,” said the judge before sentencing Kwaramba to three years wholly suspended for five years on condition the accused does not commit within that period any offence involving the use of violence or cause the death of a person. NewZimbabwe

By A Correspondent- Police have blocked a solidarity rally for opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) politician, Job Sikhala, set for Saturday, sparking outrage from his supporters.

The Job Sikhala Solidarity Council, which is behind the rally, had notified authorities of its intention to hold the event at Huruyadzo Community Hall.

The rally was meant to pile pressure on the government to release Sikhala, who has been in remand prison since June last year charged with incitement to public violence.

In a letter addressed to the organisers, police said the planned rally was a security threat as it did not meet provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (Mopa).

“The notification to hold a procession rally in solidarity with Job Sikhala at Huruyadzo Community Hall on December 23 is prohibited. The notification does not meet the requirements of section 7 of the Mopa Act. Therefore, your event was not sanctioned,” the letter read.

In response, the organisers of the rally accused the police of using Mopa as a pretext to stifle dissent and deny citizens their constitutional rights.

“The Job Sikhala Solidarity Council notes with disgust the blocking of the December 23 solidarity rally by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), it said.

“The ZRP claims that the notification failed to meet the requirements of Mopa, an excuse that has been consistently used to deny citizens their freedom of association and assembly.”

They condemned the “systematic restriction of all activities done in the name of Job Sikhala by the Zimbabwean State”.

“It is apparent that the name Job Sikhala attracts repression from the regime of Emmerson Mnangagwa. The State has caged Sikhala for more than 18 months, but they still shiver at the mere mention of Sikhala’s name,” the council said.

“The council will not be deterred by this setback. A series of solidarity activities are lined up to rally the millions of pro-democracy campaigners in Zimbabwe and beyond to collectively demand the release of Job Sikhala.”

Sikhala has been in remand prison for more than a year and a half on charges of inciting party supporters to avenge the death of slain activist, Moreblessing Ali.

Ali was killed and her body cut into pieces. Her remains were found in a disused well.

-newsday

By Dorrothy Moyo | In a landmark ruling that sent shockwaves through Harare, the High Court has delivered a decisive blow to the perpetrator of the heinous crime against CCC activist Moreblessing Ali. Pius Jamba, now infamous for his role in Ali’s disappearance and subsequent death, has been sentenced to a staggering 30 years in prison by the esteemed Harare High Court judge Esther Muremba.

The verdict comes on the heels of a riveting trial where the judge underscored the overwhelming evidence pointing to Jamba as the sole instigator of the altercation with Ali before her mysterious vanishing. Judge Muremba, known for her unyielding commitment to justice, emphasized the crucial role played by Jamba’s warned and cautioned statement, which impeccably mirrored the circumstances of the crime scene, ultimately sealing his fate.

**MURDER INVESTIGATION TIMELINE**

The harrowing saga of Moreblessing Ali’s disappearance began to unfold on June 6, 2022, as ZimEye Correspondent initiated a tireless quest for truth. Ali, a dedicated 46-year-old CCC party activist, was reportedly abducted by ZANU PF activists following an assault at the Chibhanguza Night Club in the Nyatsime area.

The investigative journey into Ali’s disappearance revealed an ominous atmosphere in Nyatsime, fraught with fear and hostility. ZimEye’s team encountered a barricade of silence, with locals reticent to share information, especially regarding the controversial ZANU PF spokesperson Simba Chisango. Chisango’s residence, protected by vigilant youths and guarded by vehicles, raised suspicions about his involvement in Ali’s case.

Drone footage obtained by ZimEye showcased a desolate landscape, with minimal movement in an area earmarked by ZANU PF for political gain. The informal settlement, characterized by red and green roofs, hinted at the political machinations at play leading up to the 2023 elections.

Chisango’s contradictory statements during interviews fueled speculation, particularly when he admitted a familial connection to Pius Jamba, the man accused of assaulting and abducting Moreblessing Ali. The subsequent police report aligned with Chisango’s narrative but conveniently omitted Jamba’s familial ties, prompting skepticism.

**OPPOSITION’S RESPONSE**

Nelson Chamisa’s CCC party, resolute in seeking justice, revealed that Pius Jamba faced additional criminal charges, including murder and fraud. The party asserted that Jamba was in hiding in Hurungwe, prompting intensified efforts to locate him. The revelation added a layer of complexity to an already convoluted case.

Simba Chikanza, a pivotal figure in unraveling the truth, warned Simba Chisango of the escalating international dimension the case had assumed. Chikanza’s assertion that the matter had transformed into an international criminal prosecution, with potential arrests in various countries, heightened the gravity of the situation.

The sentencing of Pius Jamba marks a watershed moment in the pursuit of justice for Moreblessing Ali. As the CCC continues its unwavering quest for truth, the ramifications of this case extend far beyond the courtroom, resonating with the broader narrative of political intrigue and accountability in Zimbabwe.

HOW THE MURDER INVESTIGATION STARTED

By ZimEye Correspondent | 6 JUN 2022 The sun is shining bright, though temperatures are winter low, and we are on a long search for Moreblessing Ali, a 46y old CCC party activist who was kidnapped on 24th May 2022 after 8pm by named ZANU PF activists in the Nyatsime area.

The incident according witnesses, happened at the Chibhanguza Night Club, where Moreblessing Ali was assaulted and then dragged into the nearby bush. She is missing for nearly 2 weeks to date.

By this time, ZANU PF Spokesperson Simba Chisango has claimed to ZimEye saying he ‘knows’ that Moreblessing Ali us alive:

Activist Hopewell Chin’ono Levels New Accusations Against CCC President, Saying He’s Paying Women To Expose Him.

By A Correspondent | In a new round of rapturous statements, activist Hopewell Chin’ono, who for over 27 years has a recorded pile of unchallenged serious allegations by various women in the grooming-category, has opened accusations against CCC President Nelson Chamisa who was a minor during the days when the first reports surfaced against Chin’ono running by a different surname back then.

The Multi Award winning journalist has accused Multi-Election Winner Nelson Chamisa (Chin'ono has repeatedly advised the army to split his party since 2018-2023) of paying many women to expose him to stop him from running for 2028 elections. HOW MANY WOMEN DO YOU THINK THE…

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 20, 2023

While Chin’ono did not explicitly mention Chamisa by name, all of his connotations were pointed at Chamisa, whose character he has been weekly ambushing throughout the year. This ongoing saga began on January 1, 2023, when Chin’ono falsely accused Chamisa of neglecting a voter registration campaign.

Like Trump who advised citizens to insurrect, Hopewell Chin'ono has repeatedly advised soldiers to insurrect against election winners, in 2018-19 he advised VP Chiwenga (own words) to go after the Chamisa-aligned-civil-society who he falsely accused of causing tension with the… pic.twitter.com/6tDgSeHhe4

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 20, 2023

Subsequently, he accused Chamisa of incompetence, going as far as stating that his Citizens Coalition for Change party, CCC, must split at the end of 2023 due to what Chin’ono alleges is Chamisa’s incompetence.

The Multi Award winning journalist has accused Multi-Election Winner Nelson Chamisa (Chin'ono has repeatedly advised the army to split his party since 2018-2023) of paying many women to expose him to stop him from running for 2028 elections. HOW MANY WOMEN DO YOU THINK THE…

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 20, 2023

Writing on Monday afternoon, Chin’ono randomly accused Chamisa of using journalist Simba Chikanza to pay women who will soil his name.

“I have no interest in running for office. There is a politician who thinks I want to run for office and is working with Simba Chikanza, offering money to women to scandalize me so that, according to them, I don’t run in 2028! I don’t know why people are so obsessed with me running for office; I have no interest! The obsession has become so ridiculous; I am a journalist and filmmaker, my influence stays there!” stated Chin’ono in response to the accusations.

Chin’ono, who prefers a community title proven in courts for grooming women for sex, insisted that he harbours no political ambitions. However, he believes there is a coordinated effort to undermine his potential candidacy in the upcoming presidential race.

Simba Chikanza, responding to the allegations, expressed surprise and questioned the motives behind the accusations. “Those seeking my assistance on detecting frauds, here’s a case study: Did you see the Multi-Award Winning Daddy’st’s allegation that I’ve offered women money to expose him over his ambition to run for presidency in 2028?” said Chikanza, refuting claims of collaboration with Chamisa.

Chikanza drew parallels to a previous investigation involving Walter Masocha, emphasizing that Chin’ono’s use of the online-grooming salutation “Daddy” sets him apart. “Any professional who pops out and starts making people salute them as a ‘Daddy’ knows very well they are using a tag line for groomers and rapists,” he added.

Hopewell Chin'ono Suddenly Accuses Chamisa Of Paying Women To Expose Him

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 19, 2023

Chikanza further remarked that of all the multiple women who have blown the whistle on Hopewell Chin’ono over the years, none of them has a financial need to be paid by any politician or journalist, as they are well established in their careers.

Nelson Chamisa did not provide any comment on the allegations, and the CCC leader has, for over the year, chosen to ignore the Daddy-vist when he opens accusations against his name.

Meanwhile, Hopewell Chin’ono has continued conversations where he concludes debates by flaunting wealth, while failing to disclose the name of the bank or company he says gave him a £50,000 sports car loan in 1996, that he claims is the real source of his real estate acquisitions.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the public awaits further revelations, and the drama surrounding the acclaimed activist deepens, shedding light on alleged connections, questionable behaviors, and the political landscape ahead.

By A Correspondent

CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has kept his political foes guessing.

Though criticised by naysayers keen to force him to reveal the political trump card, the CCC leader has refused to give in to incessant pressure.

The strategic ambiguity gambit is giving Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ilk sleepless nights.

Below is President Chamisa’s statement on X…

THE POWER OF LOVE, NOT THE LOVE OF POWER…

Where hate destroys, love builds.
Where hate accuses, love excuses, recuses and rescues.
Where hate wounds, love heals.
Where hate divides, love unites.

Where hate turns you to self, love pivots you to others.
Where hate is intoxicates, love is sobers.

Where hate confuses, love clarifies.
Where hate convicts, love acquits.
Where hate imprisons,, love sets free!

Even if you are hated so much, just love anyway..Don’t stop loving!! #OnePeople #Godisinit

By A Correspondent| In a startling turn of events, the Job Sikhala Solidarity Council has expressed its deep disappointment at the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for blocking the much-anticipated Solidarity rally scheduled for 23 December. The ZRP cites alleged non-compliance with the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA) as grounds for the denial, a justification that the Council deems as a consistent ploy to curtail citizens’ Freedom of Association and Assembly.

The Council, in a strongly worded press statement issued by National Organizer Obert Masaraure, condemned what they view as a systematic restriction on activities associated with Job Sikhala by the Zimbabwean State. The statement suggests a targeted repression against anything associated with Sikhala, implying that the mere mention of his name rattles the regime of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Job Sikhala, a prominent figure, has been detained for over 18 months, yet the authorities continue to exhibit apprehension at the mention of his name. The Council warns the Mnangagwa regime against treating the Sikhala Solidarity movement as a terrorist group, asserting that their activities are constitutionally grounded, aimed at applying pressure for the release of Sikhala, who they argue is a political prisoner.

The Council remains undeterred by this setback, announcing a series of Solidarity activities designed to mobilize pro-democracy campaigners both in Zimbabwe and beyond. They emphasize the constitutional right to demand the release of Job Sikhala and express their determination to continue the fight for justice.

In response to the rally’s cancellation, the Council has unveiled the #WiwaWednesday Lecture series, set to launch on X space, with further programs promised in the near future. The message is clear: “Free Job Sikhala now!”

By- A passenger in a Toyota Hilux double cab vehicle involved in a head-on collision with a haulage truck near Gokomere Mission on Monday died yesterday at Masvingo Provincial Hospital.

Masvingo Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa identified the deceased as McAulife Itai Nhika (27) of Gondo Village in Marondera.

The accident happened around 2 pm at the 281 km peg after the Harare-bound Hilux encroached into the lane of the truck.

Four passengers were aboard the Hilux, one died on admission at Masvingo Provincial Hospital, and the other is at the same hospital with severe injuries.

The other two are in a stable condition.

The truck driver was alone and did not suffer any injuries.

Meanwhile, Police are investigating and appealing for information about a hit-and-run accident which happened on Monday morning around 5 am at Sikato Business Centre resulting in the death of a pedestrian.

Masvingo Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa said the unidentified vehicle hit and killed Prosper Marashani.

“The deceased was crossing the Masvingo-Nemamwa Road when he was hit. His body was taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital and investigations are ongoing.

“It is a crime not to stop after an accident and every accident should be reported within 24 hours,” he said.

-Masvingo Mirror

By- A hired Mshikashika Honda Fit has killed six Mashonaland Central Province family members.

The six are a pregnant mother, her husband and four of their children who were travelling from Marymount in Rushinga to Chinhoyi in the early hours of Monday.

There were among the nine people killed early in the head-on collision between two Honda Fit vehicles in Mazowe.

Expecting mother Loice Kapinga and her husband Silas Gomo were travelling with their four children, including five-year-old Tanyaradzwa and eight-year-old Angela who have already been identified.

The father-in-law, Mr Edson Kapinga, said they were failing to accept that six members of their family died in the accident.

Lovemore Chibanda from Murehwa also died in the accident, including Tashinga Chitsike from Mt Darwin.
Chitsike’s father Mr Badwell Chitsike said he was failing to understand what kind of problem the vehicle had.
The driver of the Honda Fit, Mr Promise Makopo (22), managed to get out of the burning car, but died from burns sustained on both legs.
His father, Mr Pardon Makopo, said his son was hired by four artisanal miners and one lady to move them around.
“He was born at Concession Hospital and did his primary education at Mazowe Citrus and Mazowe Mine schools. He was my favourite child and God has taken him away from me,” he said.
His childhood friend, Mr Nomore Jongwe, was in disbelief and visited the accident scene.
“They were drinking at the Nduku Shopping Centre and when the beerhall closed, they proceeded to Glendale. Promise was a pirate taxi driver plying the Mazowe Inn-Jumbo route,” he said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland Central, Christopher Magomo, visited the accident scene yesterday and consoled the bereaved families.
He said when nine lives are lost at once, it is a disaster.
Minister Magomo said the three burnt beyond recognition were being identified through the police forensic team.
“We have declared war against pirate taxis and police are manning the highways. Those caught on the wrong side of the law will be punished severely. Motorists must not drive when fatigued and travelling during the night is risky. Driving and drinking is a crime. Rest when fatigued and continue with the journey later.”
Officer commanding Mazowe district Chief Superintendent Enock Masimba said: “The festive season is associated with excitement and people should hire registered vehicles. We appeal to people not to drive while drunk.
“From preliminary evidence, there is a possibility of speeding. The engine flew almost 10 metres away indicating that the vehicle was not roadworthy.”
Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma said four of the injured, including a six-year-old girl, were rushed to Concession Hospital before three were transferred to Parirenyatwa for specialist care.
A sombre atmosphere engulfed Concession Hospital where families of the deceased gathered to identify the bodies of their loved ones.
Meanwhile, the acting director in the Department of Civil Protection Mr Farai Hokonya said the Government had offered to assist families with funeral expenses.
He called on people to use regularised public transport when travelling.
“We urge drivers to observe road rules and regulations because we cannot continue to lose innocent lives due to negligence. Be a watchdog for the other drivers and road users,” said Mr Hokonya.
Bereaved families will get coffins, transport, foodstuffs and assistance with the burial process.
Meanwhile, more than 30 vehicles operating as pirate taxis have been impounded by the Mazowe traffic department.

-Herald

CITIZENS Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has written to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) blocking self-imposed Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu from using his face.

This comes as the opposition is gripped by internal fights with Tshabangu recalling CCC Members of Parliament on the pretext of him being the SG a position that the party has claimed is non-existent.

Tshabangu Monday endorsed his candidates to run for the February 3 by-elections using CCC symbols which include Chamisa’s face.

In a letter addressed to ZEC, Chamisa through his lawyers said the use of party symbols by individuals outside those provided by him is an illegality.

“We act for and on behalf of Advocate Nelson Chamisa, at whose instance we write. Kindly note our professional interest.

“Our client is the president of Citizens’ Coalition for Change political party formed on 22 January 2022.

“We are advised that in June 2023, he gave consent to specific candidates from the political party he leads, to use his face image as a logo in the harmonized elections held between 23 and 24 August 2023.

“Those who were granted permission to use the image of his face had their nomination papers, as more fully appears in your records, signed by the names appearing in a letter dated 15 June 2023 and received by yourselves on the same day. A copy of the said letter is attached hereto for your case of reference.

“We are advised that some individuals, other than the individuals mentioned above, have resorted to misappropriation of the image of our client’s face for purposes of misrepresenting and misleading the electorate. We advise that this is illegal,” read the letter.

Last month, Tshabangu’s candidates used CCC party symbols in the by-elections.

Tshabangu is on record saying he will continue to use CCC symbols as he is a bona-fide secretary general. NewZimbabwe

By James Gwati – President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration has officially introduced school fees denominated in foreign currency, exposing the hollowness of the promise to provide free primary education for Zimbabweans.

In the run-up to the August national polls, Mnangagwa said his government would provide free primary education.

This surprising policy shift has raised concerns about the accessibility of education for many Zimbabwean families, placing a financial strain on parents and prompting scepticism about the government’s commitment to its electoral promises.

This unexpected announcement, detailed in a gazette notice, has ignited controversy, particularly given that 80 percent of the population, predominantly government workers, receive their salaries in the local currency. 

The move to US dollar-denominated fees burdens parents who are already grappling with insufficient incomes to cover basic living expenses.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo, communicated the fee structure in a statement to the public via state media on Monday.

 Rural government primary schools are instructed to cap fees at US$10 per term, while their urban counterparts should not exceed US$20 per term.

Despite the fees being quoted in US dollars, parents and guardians are afforded the flexibility to make payments in the local currency, pegged to the prevailing exchange rate on the payment date for Zimbabwean pupils.

For secondary schools, Statutory Instrument 240 of 2023, Education (Tuition and Boarding Fees) (Government Schools) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023 (No. 1), delineates the fee structure. S1 schools in low-density suburbs set tuition fees at US$40 per term, S2 schools in high-density suburbs at US$20 per term, and S3 schools in rural areas at US$10 per term.

Crucially, parents contribute only a fraction of the total costs, as the government covers teachers’ salaries in government schools and certain additional expenses. 

The gazetted fees for pupils residing outside Zimbabwe, without taxpayer support, underscore the extent of government assistance—US$300 per term for primary tuition and US$400 per term for secondary schools, payable exclusively in US dollars.

While the published tuition fees seem comprehensive, the government’s expanded BEAM program aims to ensure coverage for pupils from the most economically disadvantaged families.

 Additionally, some government schools retain the option to request a top-up levy from parents through school development associations, contingent on approval by the majority of parents and the Ministry.

By-Pope Francis has allowed priests to bless same-sex couples, with a new document issued on Monday explaining a radical change in Vatican policy.

BBC News reported that the head of the Roman Catholic Church said priests should be permitted to bless same-sex and “irregular” couples, under certain circumstances.

However, the Vatican said blessings should not be part of regular Church rituals or related to civil unions or weddings.

It added that it continues to view marriage as a lifelong sacrament between a man and a woman.

The Vatican emphasized that blessings in question must be non-liturgical and should not be conferred at the same time as a civil union, using set rituals or even with the clothing and gestures that belong in a wedding.

It said people seeking a “blessing” should not be subject to “an exhaustive moral analysis” as a precondition for receiving it. The Vatican said:

Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God. The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy, and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live. It is a seed of the Holy Spirit that must be nurtured, not hindered.

In the new document, the Vatican stressed that people in “irregular” unions of extramarital sex — gay or straight — are in a state of sin. But it said that shouldn’t deprive them of God’s love or mercy.

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the prefect of the Church, who introduced the text, said that the new stance does not validate the status of same-sex couples in the eyes of the Catholic Church.

In 2021, the Pope said priests could not bless same-sex marriages because God cannot “bless sin”.

However, Pope Francis had suggested in October that he was open to having the Church bless same-sex couples.

By James Gwati – The government has officially gazetted school fees in foreign currency, allowing parents to pay using the local currency at the prevailing exchange rate.

This move empowers schools to request payments in US dollars, posing a challenge for parents whose incomes are primarily in the local currency, which has been facing challenges.

In a statement to the public via state media on Monday, Torerayi Moyo, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, outlined the fee structure. 

He specified that rural government primary schools should cap fees at US$10 per term, while urban government primary schools should not exceed US$20 per term.

While the fees are denominated in US dollars, parents and guardians have the flexibility to make payments in the local currency at the exchange rate applicable on the payment date for Zimbabwean pupils.

For secondary schools, Statutory Instrument 240 of 2023, Education (Tuition and Boarding Fees) (Government Schools) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023 (No. 1), outlines the fee structure. S1 schools in low-density suburbs have set tuition fees at US$40 per term, S2 schools in high-density suburbs at US$20 per term, and S3 schools in rural areas at US$10 per term.

Parents contribute only a fraction of the total costs, as the government covers teachers’ salaries in government schools and certain additional costs.

 The gazetted fees for pupils residing outside Zimbabwe, who do not receive taxpayer support, illustrate the level of government assistance for Zimbabwean pupils.

 Primary tuition fees for this group are set at US$300 per term, and secondary schools are US$400 per term, payable exclusively in US dollars.

While the gazetted tuition fees are comprehensive, the government’s expanded BEAM program ensures coverage for pupils from the most economically disadvantaged families. 

Additionally, some government schools may request a top-up levy from parents through school development associations, subject to approval by the majority of parents and the Ministry.

-Herald