MDC Alliance aspiring candidate for Mberengwa North, Takavafira Zhou has slammed Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for failing to resolve glaring anomalies before the July 30 elections.
Below is Zhou’ s statement:
That ZEC is incompetent and facilitating the rigging of elections is a fact that no level headed Zimbabwean can deny.
This can be proved beyond reasonable doubt at the briefest examination of facts in Mberengwa North.
1. Nine days to the watershed harmonised elections some wards still have no voters’ rolls.
Ward 15 and ward 35 have not yet received their respective voters rolls. The respective councillors have been to the Mberengwa offices more than three times and I have also visited the offices more than three times, the latest being today.
In spite of promises to provide the voters’ rolls the discs and replacement of discs sent have not been opening.
ZEC officials seem not to care about the urgency of providing voters’ rolls. It seems ZEC is trying to hide something and would provide such voters’ rolls on the eve of elections so that there would be no time to study the voters’ rolls.
2. The voters’ rolls provided are also haphazard. Although we are still studying them due to late provision of some wards’ voters’ rolls there have been shocking revelations.
3. People who died before compilation of voters’ rolls have found themselves in the voters’ rolls. A case in point is ward 11, number 81 (Dube Handa) and number 495 (Ngagla Konias).
It is prudent to note that ZEC claimed that the memory stick that contained all people who had registered at Cheshaga Polling Station had been lost. Sadly, dead people resurrected and reregistered.
There is certainly something fishy in such a timid approach.
4. Maphosa Taurungano is registered as number 271 under a fictitious headman Chigigo and registered as number 272 under heaman Chigigwa. The fictitious headman has several people registered under his jurisdiction such as number 171, 198, 201, 238, 342, 637 and 640.
5. There are also other fictitious village heads like number 209 ward 11 and this brings doubt as to the existence of such people.
6. There are people from Zvishavane Ngezi (ward 19) who registered to vote in Mberengwa North. It is clear that such people have been conveniently registered to justify the existence of such a polling station.
There is certainly need for clarity on the Mberengwa North and Zvishavane Ngezi boundary.
In light of the above, it is our submission that ZEC is deliberately withholding voters’ rolls for wards 15 and 35 so that we would not see other irregularities in them.
Coincidentally, ward 15 is the same ward where I come from and ZEC is aware it would be easy for me to identify fictitious names and irregularities.
IN a suspected case of ritual killing, a 22-year-old man from Esihlengeni in Umzingwane District allegedly confessed to killing his six-year-old brother in 2015, before leading his family to the missing child’s headless remains.
After watching his family toil for over two years in search of his brother, Mr Shepherd Gumbo (22) of Chief Sigola, Umzingwane District in Matabeleland South province allegedly cracked and took responsibility for the death of Ntuthuko Ngulube who disappeared on 7 December 2015.
When Sunday News visited the area yesterday, police and villagers were in search of the missing child’s skull, as that was believed to be the only part that was missing after Gumbo led members of his family and other village elders to where he claimed to have buried the body.
According to villagers on the scene, when Gumbo made his confession, he claimed to have been working with six other people.
As the boy’s disappearance and subsequent discovery seemed to take a supernatural twist, tensions were running high in the village, with one villager prevented from taking part in the search as villagers alleged that he was part of the group of six that Gumbo claimed to have been working with.
The missing child’s mother, Ms Anna Sibanda, narrated how the family’s desperate search had begun at the end of December in 2015 before coming to a heartbreaking end in a hilly, bushy area deep in Esihlengeni.
“I had left the children with Shepherd and his siblings while I went to my husband in Filabusi because it was month end and we needed money. I then decided to spend the night there but I got a phone call at 9pm telling me that my son was missing.
We immediately came back and started a search with other villagers and members of the police,” she said.
According to Ms Sibanda, although her son was last seen with Gumbo, they never suspected that he was the one responsible for the child’s disappearance, as he had seemed as heartbroken as all other family members.
“He said they had gone to the bush to look for idelele (okra) because the family didn’t have relish for that night. When he came back later, he asked them where Ntuthuko was because he claimed he had let him run ahead of him after they had harvested some okra. We really never suspected anything because he seemed to be genuinely hurt, like the rest of us, about what had transpired,” she said.
Ms Sibanda said despite keeping a cool exterior since the child’s disappearance over two years and a half ago, Gumbo’s behaviour had increasingly become erratic in the last few weeks.
“Last week he walked from our village all the way to Cowdray Park in Bulawayo on foot. He went to his cousin’s place who then called us and said that he was behaving like a mentally ill person. We were surprised because he had no history of mental illness and had been acting fine before last week. We told him to take him to the police because if a person is mentally ill it is better to alert the police and then send him to hospital. He was in a bad state so the police released him to us,” she said.
According to Mr Kenias Ngulube, the missing boy’s father, Gumbo had been claiming that he craved the taste of blood to his younger brother, Ronaldo Gumbo (20).
“He was saying that he misses the taste of blood so his brother came to me and said that he was worried because the family had never found out how Ntuthuko met his end,” he said.
As his strange behaviour continued, the family decided to seek divine intervention and sent him to a local faith healer only identified as Prophet Tshuma.
“After the prophet prayed for him he seemed to get better but after everyone had left his condition got worse. We prayed the whole night for him as a family and that is when he broke down and confessed. We could not sleep that night because we knew we had a murderer among us,” said Ms Sibanda.
After the family consulted with village elders, Gumbo then led them deep into the bush where he showed them what he claimed to be the remains of the missing child.
“We never thought anyone could have hidden the body that deep within the bush,” said Mr Ngulube.
The missing boy’s father said they suspected that it was a ritual killing, with Gumbo working in cahoots with others. He claimed that one of the villagers had told them they would find their son’s body as mere bones.
“When the child disappeared we called some tsikamutandas who we were convinced had taken us close to the vicinity of where the body was hidden.
However, we were then arrested and those tsikamutandas went away but we never stopped our search,” he said.
Police could not be reached for comment at the time of going to print- The Sunday News.
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended an olive branch to the white community in Zimbabwe promising that going forward, the new administration would ensure that the rule of law applies in the country.
Mnangagwa who also promised that the era of invading white-owned farms was over said white former commercial farmers who lost farms through land redistribution are free to take part in agricultural development through various contributions that can help the sector enhance productivity.
Addressing an interface meeting with members of the white community, Asians and those of mixed race in Harare (Saturday), Mnangagwa said no grouping is considered a minority community as Zimbabweans are one people.
“Under the new dispensation, there is no discrimination. We should cease to talk about who owns the farm in terms of colour.
We should cease talking about that. A farmer — a black farmer, a white farmer — is a Zimbabwean farmer. We should look at it that way. We should begin to develop a culture among our people to accept that we are one.
President Mnangagwa said in line with his plans to restore Zimbabwe’s status as the breadbasket of the region, Government welcomes white former commercial players who are willing to contribute their expertise to the development of the agriculture sector.
“Let the past remain behind, there are so many white farmers who don’t have farms anymore as a result of land reform. But I think they have a role to play in terms of skills in the farming sector.
All that is required is more of such interaction with the farmers’ organisations. Invite me and I articulate my policy to the people, to the farmers so you find comfort and you know what is possible and what is not possible,” he said.
“I told the farmers in Mashonaland West and in Chipinge and Chimanimani that this issue of new invasions is a thing of the past. I have told my provincial ministers, I have told my party leadership across the country that (this) is a thing of the past.
The rule of law must now apply.”
Government, he said, will also issue white farmers with 99-year leases.
“We want to restore the status of Zimbabwe as a food basket of the region. I met farmers in Mash West recently and I assured them that there will be increased pace in the issuance of the 99-year leases so that whoever owns a piece of land should feel secure and invest knowing that they have a 99-year lease in possession.
But also, the 99-year lease is renewable and we want everything to be done to make it tradable. We have the rationalisation of land under the land commission (Zimbabwe Land Commission) that we instituted because during the process of land reform, many of us sitting here acquired more than one farm, pasi nazvo!
He also said the farm rationalisation exercise will apply to anyone, irrespective of rank.-Sunday News
An intoxicated Bikita man was last week arrested for shouting obscenities at a Zanu PF supporterter clad in a t-shirt bearing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s face.
Daniel Chaambuka of Nechipotwe Village also allegedly tore the t-shirt after insulting Philimon Mutamba.
Chaambuka was arrested for the alleged offence and he appeared before Magistrate Caroline Tafira.
Chaambuka met Matumba on July 1 and the former asked the latter why he was wearing the Zanu PF t-shirt.
Chaambuka also uttered derogatory comments against Mnangagwa.
By Terrence Mawawa| Two married Zanu PF activists were last week caught having sex, according to a traditional leader in Zaka.
Willard Ringeringe and Myleg Machokoto, Zanu PF members, were allegedly caught having sex in a house at Jerera Growth Point in Zaka.
The matter was heard before Headman Mapanje last week.
“Ringeringe was fined a beast and some goats for bedding Machokoto.
Both are Zanu PF members.After being caught in the act, Ringeringe tried to bribe one Ernest Mufembi with the sum of $ 100,” Headman Mapanje’s aide said.
Afrobarometer Report|For the first time in a generation, Zimbabweans will vote in presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections on July 30, 2018 without the name of Robert Mugabe at the top of the ballot. Instead, the race for the presidency – the top prize in Zimbabwean politics – will pit Mugabe’s long-time collaborator, Emmerson Mnangagwa of the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), against newcomer Nelson Chamisa, who, with the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in February 2018, inherited the leadership of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T Chamisa and MDC Alliance).
At least on the surface, the 2018 election is unfolding in a somewhat more open political atmosphere than the country’s previous contests, which were often marred by violent intimidation and disputed results. The opposition has been permitted to campaign throughout the country, and access to the election proceedings has been granted to a wide spectrum of international observers. But undercurrents of concern remain about the independence of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, the illicit distribution of public largesse by the ruling party, and the unknown intentions of the security forces, which in the past have repeatedly shored up ZANU-PF against any loss of political power.
Against this backdrop, Zimbabwean voters wonder whether 2018 will break the mold of past elections by ushering in the country’s first-ever alternation of presidential leadership. Certainly the electorate longs for a leader who can bring an end to four decades of economic mismanagement and rising poverty. In response, both Mnangagwa and Chamisa are campaigning on messages of economic reform and job creation. But a skeptical citizenry has every reason to question the sincerity and feasibility of politicians’ easy promises and, in the absence of unbiased information from a polarized and partisan press, to wonder which political party is actually ahead in the quest to occupy the top offices of state.
This dispatch reports results from a survey of public opinion on the status of the electoral race conducted one month before the day of voting with a representative sample of 2,400 voting-age adults drawn from all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe. The survey was commissioned by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, Afrobarometer’s core partner in Southern Africa, and implemented by the Mass Public Opinion Institute, Afrobarometer’s national partner in Zimbabwe.
National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) presidential candidate, Professor Lovemore Madhuku has dismissed as baseless suggestions that ballots cast in favour of a particular candidate can shift positions to another as part of a ploy to rig elections.
Addressing mainly pensioners whom he is providing free legal representation, Professor Madhuku said there is no magic or scientific chemical used to move ballots once they are cast.
His sentiments come in the wake of social media talk suggesting that there is a formula of rigging where a chemical solution on the ballot moves a mark from a voter’s preferred candidate to another.
To this end, he urged the electorate to go and vote on 30 July and appealed for them to also consider him as one of the presidential candidates even if his chances of winning are highly slim.
Professor Madhuku said the election is not only a race between Zanu PF and the MDC Alliance but a democratic process where even the minority parties have a claim of the stake and a voice to be heard.
He urged the electorate to resist the temptation of getting divided over political figures and commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for preaching the gospel of peace.
Meanwhile, the NCA has pledged to work towards improving the social conditions of the worker and offer better payouts for pensioners.
By Own Correspondent| Concern has been raised over the firing of gunshots at Beitbridge border post this morning to cross border traders allegedly protesting over ZIMRA delays.
While the exact cause of the delay was not officially confirmed, sources at the border allegedly accused the ZIMRA of deliberately delaying duty processes, a development which had seen some traders spend 2 days at the border.
By Own Correspondent| Two Zimbabwean women were last week allegedly murdered in Randfontein, Johannesburg in unclear circumstances, ZimEye has learnt
The two women, were allegedly picked up by an unnamed man driving a red car at different times from a venue where they looked for employment.
Zimbabweans in South Africa often stand at road intersections where they advertise their services some of which include plumbing, building and general maintenance work and prospective employers pick them up from these points.
According to sources privy to the development, the two women had been missing since last week after they were picked up from a place where they usually looked for employment.
The murder only came to light after the wife of the suspected murderer made a report to the police regarding her husband’s suspicious actions and whereabouts.
The wife reportedly told the police that her husband had prohibited her from entering two of the rooms at their house but the husband was nowhere to be found.
The police then accompanied the woman to her house and they forced open the two rooms where the bodies of the two women were discovered.
The two women were only identified as Privy and Alice.
This is a developing story. Refresh the page for updates.
Political commentator Brett Holley has suggested that Zimbabwe under Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF is better than under Nelson Chamisa’s MDC.
Writing on Sunday morning, Brett Muvhet, as he is affectionately called, criticised what he termed racism by the MDC-T. He alleged that the MDC has run out of humour.
Said Muvhet, “As everyone knows I have been against ZanuPF since day one.
The Mugabe led ZanuPF in particular.
“When a president calls for a meeting with whites and the main opposition use that as an advert against ZanuPF, you now know what I personally have seen long ago.
“That indeed the MDCT is a closet racist party, much like the Mugabe led ZanuPF.
“To attack the fact that attendees bought tea and cake to share and had plastic chairs to sit on, asi MDCT mapererwa here kusvika pakadai?
“The actions of MDCT continue to push all fence sitters into the hands of ZanuPF daily. Your vanguard and social media campaign of hate speech, sexism and racism is very concerning.
“Mukaona vanhu vakafanana neni who are thinking that actually Zim under ED could be better than Zim under MDCT, you know something is very very wrong with MDCT.
THE Dr Thokozani Khupe led MDC-T says it is financially incapacitated to take care of the needs of polling agents ahead of the watershed elections and they are taking legal action against Mr Nelson Chamisa’s MDC demanding $1 million from the money they received under the Political Parties (Finance) Act.
The party was awarded about $1,9 million before the split and the MDC-T said they did not get part of the amount after they split and eventually won the right to use the name MDC-T in the battle for legitimacy that ensued.
Treasury availed a total of US$9 million to Zanu-PF and MDC-T but the latter did not get the funding after the split that followed the death of MDC founder president Morgan Tsvangirai. Dr Khupe said they have written to the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to register their complaint.
“We have not received any money from the $1,9 million that was disbursed, not even a single cent. We wrote to the Ministry of Justice informing them of our position. We need our money for campaigning and they are mum on the issue,” she said.
Dr Khupe said they have started legal proceedings to pursue the matter with the Government.
“We have decided to take the legal route, we are engaging our lawyers with our VP (Obert) Gutu over the matter but the truth is we are in sixes and sevens over the issue, we are hoping that a miracle happens and we get this funding as soon as possible,” she said.
Dr Khupe said the $1 million that they were demanding was meant for voter education and deployment of polling agents.
ZimEye is getting reports of LIVE gunshots at the Beitbridge border post Sunday morning.
A video from the scene is being streamed on ZimEye at 10 am (Zim time).
A source wrote to ZimEye explaining saying, “gunshots at Beitbridge border post as cross border traders are having a tussle with soldiers and Zimra officers. They have been stuck all night as Zimra anti Anti Smuggling unit is thoroughly searching all cross border vehicles and confistcating goods.
A source inside the Customs section confirmed the development. “It is a bit tough with traders this morning,” they said without going into further details.
In the video evidence, gunshots-like sounds can be heard as people flee a storage building.
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY — REFRESH THIS PAGE FOR MORE –
By Own Correspondent| Aspiring legislator for Buhera North who is running under the MDC Alliance ticket, Julius Magarangoma has revealed that he will hang himself if he loses the forthcoming elections arguing that with or without rigging, he is assured of victory.
Magarangoma is set to battle it out with businessman William Mutomba who is running under the Zanu Pf ticket.
Former Finance minister Ignatius Chombo, who is facing a plethora of criminal cases involving corruption, fraud and criminal nuisance, has been granted temporary reprieve after the High Court granted an order for an indefinite stay of his prosecution.
Justice Charles Hungwe’s order came after Chombo had filed an urgent application seeking permanent stay of his trial, citing infringement of his constitutional rights.
“The criminal prosecution of the applicant (Chombo) be and is hereby postponed sine die until the determination of HC6515/18,” reads part of the ruling.
Chombo, who was represented by Lovemore Madhuku when he appeared before Harare provincial magistrate Lazini Ncube, had successfully applied for the postponement of the case to August 2 pending the High Court determination on his urgent application.
In the High Court matter, Chombo said he wanted the court to determine whether or not the state, during his arrest, did not violate his constitutional rights when he was allegedly abducted by its agents, blind-folded for nine days and subjected to torture and other forms of inhumane and degrading treatment.
Chombo said his lawyer had written to the prosecutor-general, Ray Goba, advising him of the need to postpone the trial.
However, Goba had insisted that the trial should proceed despite the pending High Court application.
“The attitude of the State and National Prosecution Authority is grossly unreasonable and it undermines the rule of law,” Madhuku argued.
“Proceeding with the criminal prosecution before a determination renders the latter academic.
“Why should an applicant be taken through a criminal prosecution that may be declared void?
“Chombo has more than a prima facie right. Serious violations of his constitutional rights can be remedied by a permanent stay of prosecution.”
In his application, the former minister had said: “I should not go through a criminal prosecution I believe is unconstitutional before my application challenging the constitutionality of the criminal prosecution has been determined.
“HC6515/18 must be determined first. I believe this is the only way in which my constitutional rights can be protected.”
Chombo claimed that he was tortured by the army when he was arrested on the night former president Robert Mugabe was put under house arrest by the military in November last year.
By Own Correspondent| Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has called on Zimbabweans to act responsibly before, during and after the polls adding that the country’s woes are far from over regardless of who wins the forthcoming plebiscite.
Annan, who was heading a delegation of Elders comprising of Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Lakhdar Brahimi, former Foreign Minister of Algeria and UN diplomat concluded their visit to Zimbabwe on Saturday.
At the conclusion of the visit, Annan, Chair of The Elders, the Kofi Annan Foundation and Nobel Peace laureate, said:
“The upcoming elections are the most significant for Zimbabwe since Independence.
The country faces serious challenges which will persist whoever wins; it is critical that everyone acts responsibly before, during and after the elections to ensure a Zimbabwe free from violence, where human rights are respected and prosperity restored.”
Zimbabwe has been a key focus of concern for The Elders since the group was formed in 2007.
“Once one of Africa’s strongest economies, Zimbabwe has suffered sustained political and economic crises over the last two decades and its leaders are failing in their responsibilities to the country’s people,” the Elders are on record saying.
The grouping said the resignation of former president Robert Mugabe in November 2017 however offers a historic opportunity for national democratic, economic and social renewal.
“All political, military and civil society leaders in Zimbabwe have an opportunity to work together towards free and fair elections in 2018 and a peaceful, inclusive transition.
All state institutions, especially the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, must put transparency and integrity at the heart of their work.
This is particularly important regarding the ongoing Biometric Voter Registration process, which must deliver a credible electoral roll to restore confidence to the voting system,” said The Elders independent group of global leaders working together for peace and human rights.
The Elders represent an independent voice, not bound by the interests of any nation, government or institution.
The famous old lady who was captured on a video that went viral on social media failing to pronounce MDC Alliance President Nelson Chamisa’s surname, on Saturday emotionally wept on stage at the MDC Alliance rally on meeting with Chamisa.
The very old gogo who took quite sometime to go up the few steps to get on the stage was invited to the stage by Chamisa to publicly thank her for the support she have him on the social media video.
The old lady was asked to speak in front of the huge crowd but could only be overheard indicated to a family member who accompanied her on stage that she can not speak as she is afraid of being killed.
“He has seen me and that’s enough,” gogo was heard speaking into the microphone.
“I am afraid to say anything because you people capture me on your cameras and they will kill me. You know they threatened to kill me, I can’t say anything,” said the teary old lady before turning away to walk back.
Turning to the crowd, Chamisa responded angrily to the threats that were made on the old lady.
“How do you threaten such an old person, for what reason? Its that what we fought for” said Chamisa.
The old lady was captured in a video indicating that Zimbabweans should vote for Khamisa, failing to Chamisa. Therr video went viral on social media.
Chamisa expressed joy at meeting the old lady.
“I only saw gogo on video but today am very happy to see her live,” said Chamisa.
“When we have won the elections, gogo must be brought for the inauguration ceremony and I will accommodate her at State House,” said Chamisa.
Report by the Elders: Concluding their visit to Zimbabwe ahead of its pivotal general election, The Elders urge Zimbabweans to work together to ensure a free, fair and transparent poll on 30 July.
“It is critical that everyone acts responsibly before, during and after the elections.” –Kofi Annan.
Lakhdar Brahimi, Mary Robinson and Kofi Annan meet President Emmerson Mnangagwa during their visit to Zimbabwe in July 2018. (Credit: The Elders)
The Elders today urged Zimbabweans to put the national interest first, reject violence at all stages in the electoral process, and work together to ensure a free, fair and transparent poll on 30 July.
Kofi Annan, Lakhdar Brahimi and Mary Robinsonmet President Emmerson Mnangagwa, MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa and other presidential candidates on a two-day visit to Harare organised with the support of the Kofi Annan Foundation.
Mary Robinson, Kofi Annan and Lakhdar Brahimi meet MDC Alliance leader and Presidential Candidate, Nelson Chamisa in Zimbabwe in July 2018. (Credit: The Elders)
They hailed the improvement in fundamental freedoms that has obtained in Zimbabwe since the end of 2017, and President Mnangagwa’s repeated emphasis on free and fair elections.
The Elders also commended the main political parties’ commitment to respect the outcome of the election and abjure violence through their signing of the Peace Pledge of 26 June.
The delegation also met the Chair of the Zimbabwe Election Commission, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, and other ZEC Commissioners; members of the diplomatic community; and civil society groups, participating in the Citizens’ Manifesto National Convention.
Mary Robinson and Kofi Annan attend Citizens Manifesto event in Zimbabwe in July 2018. (Credit: The Elders)
Kofi Annan, Chair of The Elders, the Kofi Annan Foundation and Nobel Peace laureate, said:
“The upcoming elections are the most significant for Zimbabwe since Independence. The country faces serious challenges which will persist whoever wins; it is critical that everyone acts responsibly before, during and after the elections to ensure a Zimbabwe free from violence, where human rights are respected and prosperity restored.”
The Elders expressed concern about polarisation in society ahead of the elections and the rise of hate speech towards women candidates and officials, especially on social media. They urged presidential candidates to lead by example, refraining from personal insults and promoting civil discourse in political and public life.
They stressed that all stakeholders have a responsibility to ensure the election process is free, fair, transparent and credible, and to respect the integrity of the ZEC.
They were pleased to see signs of progress from the most recent meeting of the Multi-Party Liaison Committee (MPLC) regarding ballot papers, the voters’ roll and the organisation of polling booths, and hope ZEC will be able to confirm these developments at the next MPLC meeting, and take any other measures necessary to build confidence before polling day.
Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said:
“Zimbabwe is blessed with talented, eloquent and passionate people. We have been deeply impressed by the commitment of civil society groups here to build a better future for their country. The authorities and security services must continue to allow free expression whatever the election outcome, and not revert to past tactics of violence and intimidation.”
Lakhdar Brahimi, former Algerian Foreign Minister and liberation struggle veteran, added:
“Elections are just one step on the path to national renewal. Candidates must see themselves as rivals, not enemies. The people of Zimbabwe cannot afford more years of infighting, division and corruption; we stand with them in their call for a brighter future.”
By Geff T Chigumba| There is an earthquake that is going to hit the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission chairperson Priscilla Chigumba, some Zimbabweans have announced.
The alleged tremor, is said to be in the prepare to strike at her in less than 5 days from now. It is claimed that the event will happen a few days before the elections on the 30th of July 2018. The development comes after the learned judge threatened protesting Zimbabweans declaring that “Only an earthquake can stop the elections.” One man wrote of his own version saying that the coming earthquake will be a video setup be revealed before the whole world. Below was the announcement:
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that he has collected over 16 billion dollars in the last six months alone. Mnangagwa and Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa said the Zimbabwe economy has boomed ever since the operation restore order in November last year.
Patrick-Chinamasa
The president made this statement on Friday and was followed by the finance minister the following day, in a message that speaks highly of the administration, but also comes at a time when the country is experiencing terrible cash shortages, and of late fuel queues have suddenly emerged.
Update from Mnanagwa’s digital portal
Below is a state media piece on the development:
Zimbabwe’s economy is growing at a faster rate than expected, with growth for this year likely to beat initial forecasts, senior Government officials and economic analysts have said.
Most companies recorded improved capacity utilisation and revenue performance during the first six months of the year; and these both point to a growing economy.
Government had projected that the economy would expand by 4,5 percent this year, but Finance and Economic Planning Minister Patrick Chinamasa is optimistic that growth could be as much as 6 percent.
Minister Chimanasa said the growth would be underpinned by mining, manufacturing, construction and agriculture. The country has already recorded significant export growth from these sectors, with mining leading at $1,6 billion, tobacco at $218 million and manufacturing at $110 million.
This has resulted in a 24 percent rise in foreign receipts to $3,5 billion during the first half of the year. However, the more conservative World Bank has also revised its initial 1,8 percent growth projections made for the country in January this year to 2,7 percent.
According to the latest trade figures from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, the country’s trade deficit widened by 44 percent during the first half of the year to $1,4 billion, up from $1 billion recorded in the same period last year.
This deficit, however, indicates that more imports were largely towards production.
Consumer goods imports fell 34 percent to $401 million from $610 million.
The improved revenue performance during the first half, as reported by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority this week, has been partly attributed to increased business activity.
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor, Dr John Mangudya said the economy is on a growth trajectory.
Dr Mangudya said the growth in foreign currency requirements in the past six months show that there is more activity in the economy.
He said with average capacity utilisation increasing to 60 percent, demand of foreign currency had also grown. “The economy is growing at a faster rate than the rate at which we are generating foreign currency,” said Dr Mangudya.
“This is expected in the short term. It’s a natural progression but in the long term when capacities are fully utilised, we expect to export more and reverse the trend. We do not expect to reduce the trade deficit in the short term because we need to expand capacity.”
Statistics from the Reserve Bank show that between May and June this year, electricity imports rose by 94 percent, diesel imports increased by 27 percent while petrol imports also jumped.
Minister Chinamasa said the recent import substitution measures, which were put in place by the Government, resulted in revival and expansion of some companies.
“Some of the challenges are a result of our successes,” said Minister Chinamasa.
“For instance, we have a challenge to do with foreign currency shortages.
“After we introduced Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016, what it did was basically to trigger revival of our industry in the sense that we were able to operate within the protected market because of the restriction of goods, which were now locally produced.
“Most of the companies, which had collapsed, revived their operations and those that were already operating were able to increase their capacity utilisation and the result of course is that they put more demand on foreign currency.”
Economists said the decline in consumer goods imports reflects that the country is now paying more for capital goods. “Such a trade gap is not worrisome because it is going into investment,” said Mr Tendai Rowaro, an economist with a local research company.
Another economist, Dr Gift Mugano, said the economy is on the rebound. “The economy is growing. If you look at companies’ financial statements, you see that sales have been growing, on average by as much as 20 percent, which confirms that there has been growth in aggregate demand
Several Farm invasions have continued after the November coup, and numerous statements have been proclaimed by the government that the land reform has ended.
But white farmers have continued to be raided by ZANU PF strongmen, one of the victims who was Gary Warth in the lowveld. Many other victims have been removed from their farms overnight under the banner of the Land reform. The head of state has announced once again that the land reform has ended.
Is his declaration new and potent or it is just pale plastic?
Zimbabwe does not regret embarking on the land reform programme, which attracted debilitating economic sanctions from the West, because it is a principled nation that knows its destiny, President Mnangagwa has said.
He, however, said the land reform exercise was a closed chapter as Zimbabwe was now focusing on consolidating the programme through mechanisation.
President Mnangagwa made these remarks when he addressed thousands of Zanu-PF supporters at a rally outside Rudhaka Stadium here yesterday.
He said the flagship programme driving agricultural mechanisation was Command Agriculture, which has since been broadened to cover livestock, cotton and soya beans, among others.
“Sanctions were imposed on us in 2000 because we had resolved as Zanu-PF in 2000 to repossess our land,” said President Mnangagwa.
“They (Commonwealth ) said you should not do that and we said no to Commonwealth. We repossessed our land and redistributed it to our people. Now we are in the process of auditing the land to see if those who got the land deserved it and that there are no multiple farm owners.
“In cases where one family has more than one farm, we will repossess the other farms and give to others. We need transparency and fairness in the distribution of our land. We have a land commission (Zimbabwe Land Commission) which is moving around auditing land ownership. Once they produce their report, we will be able to see how our youths and women who have not benefitted can also own land,” he said.
“Secondly, for almost 20 years, we have been in isolation because of the sanctions, but we don’t regret that sanctions were imposed on us because we are a proud people, we are a proud nation, a principled people. We know what we want, we know our destiny, and we know where we want to go. If you go against us, we are against you.
“We are saying the land reform is behind us and we are only consolidating it. What we are now saying is that our agriculture must be modernised, must now be mechanised, must now make sure that much of our agriculture is under irrigation. Once we do that, we will be sure that we can always be guaranteed of good harvests even during drought periods.”
President Mnangagwa continued: “Under that model, which we have introduced – the Command Agriculture model and the Presidential Input Support Scheme – we are achieving this objective. We now have two years implementing these programmes and we are saying bye bye to poverty.
“We are now our own masters and making our land productive. How do we make our land productive? Government should support farmers. We empower the farmer at every level and there are two categories: those on Command Agriculture Scheme we empower them, and those who are not on that scheme, about 1,8 million households, we support them freely under the Presidential Input Support Scheme. We have so far extended this programme to cover livestock, fishery, wheat and soya beans, cotton and wildlife. Under livestock, we have already started with the Matabeleland region because there is less rains.”
President Mnangagwa said his administration had other programmes for those who wanted to venture into poultry and piggery projects.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has in the last 24 hours promised white farmers with title deeds if they vote for him.
Below was a state media article on the development as it stated that: the new political administration believes in an inclusive society that does not countenance racial discrimination, and is working with white former commercial farmers to see how they can contribute to the development of the country, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said. He also declared that the era of invading white-owned farms was over.
President Mnangagwa said white former commercial farmers who lost farms through land redistribution are free to take part in agricultural development through various contributions that can help the sector enhance productivity.
Addressing an interface meeting with members of the white community, Asians and those of mixed race in Harare yesterday, the Head of State and Government said no grouping is considered a minority community as Zimbabweans are one people.
“Under the new dispensation, there is no discrimination. “We should cease to talk about who owns the farm in terms of colour. We should cease talking about that. A farmer – a black farmer, a white farmer – is a Zimbabwean farmer. We should look at it that way. We should begin to develop a culture among our people to accept that we are one.”
President Mnangagwa said in line with his plans to restore Zimbabwe’s status as the breadbasket of the region, Government welcomes white former commercial players who are willing to contribute their expertise to the development of the agriculture sector.
“Let the past remain behind, there are so many white farmers who don’t have farms anymore as a result of land reform. But I think they have a role to play in terms of skills in the farming sector. All that is required is more of such interaction with the farmers’ organisations. Invite me and I articulate my policy to the people, to the farmers so you find comfort and you know what is possible and what is not possible,” he said.
“I told the farmers in Mashonaland West and in Chipinge and Chimanimani that this issue of new invasions is a thing of the past. I have told my provincial ministers, I have told my party leadership across the country that (this) is a thing of the past. The rule of law must now apply.”
Government, he said, will also issue white farmers with 99-year leases.
“We want to restore the status of Zimbabwe as a food basket of the region.
“I met farmers in Mash West recently and I assured them that there will be increased pace in the issuance of the 99-year leases so that whoever owns a piece of land should feel secure and invest knowing that they have a 99-year lease in possession.
“But also, the 99-year lease is renewable and we want everything to be done to make it tradable.
“We have the rationalisation of land under the land commission (Zimbabwe Land Commission) that we instituted because during the process of land reform, many of us sitting here acquired more than one farm, pasi nazvo!
“We must correct that. Whoever has multiple farms, one for himself, one for the son and one for the grandchild, that land must be acquired.
“And we are saying many of the white commercial farmers who remained behind, who did not go away, we are very grateful for accepting this change and they must come on board and they must be issued with the 99-year leases wherever there are pieces of land which they hold,” he said.
He also said the farm rationalisation exercise will apply to anyone, irrespective of rank.
“We are also downsizing farms and again, we are racially blind. It doesn’t matter, if Chiwenga has a farm that is bigger than his area, we will downsize it, we forget that he is Vice President – he is a citizen like everybody else.
“The same with me and the same with everybody. We are going to make sure we do not have the animal farm mentality.”
President Mnangagwa said Command Agriculture is voluntary and funded by the private sector. Productivity, he added, is the ultimate cure for the black market.
“All that is needed is productivity and productivity, so that you reach a stage where there will be no need to deal with black market because it is not beneficial. There must be that commitment that the economy is ours together and it is only us who can move it forward. The issue now is business, business, business, wealth creation, and the politics will come only after five years but in between, we must make wealth.”
After his speech, the President mixed and mingled with the crowd, which also had the opportunity to engage him and take “selfies”.
The meeting was attended by Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, Zanu-PF National Chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs Miriam Chikukwa, among others.
Zanu Pf supporters today walked out on President Emmerson Mnangagwa during a rally at Rudhaka Stadium in Marondera.
Some could be heard complaining that they were being ordered to remain at the venue against their will.
The incident speaks volumes of the previous one in Bindura where people complained of being beaten up by green bomber security as uniformed soldiers watched. VIDEO:
By Own Correspondent| Environment, Water and Climate Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri who yesterday made her first public appearance at Mutare Aerodrome in Manicaland during a Zanu Pf rally after her absence following the Bulawayo bomb blast has revealed that she is fit and back in one piece.
Muchinguri Kashiri was airlifted to South Africa together with Vice President Kembo Mohadi following the White City Stadium bomb blast which injured 47 people, 2 of whom later succumbed to injuries sustained during the explosion.
Zanu Pf said the bomb explosion was targeting its leader President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Muchinguri Kashiri denied reports that she lost a body part during the blast revealing that she is fit and had been successfully treated in South Africa.
In her vote of thanks at the Mutare rally held Friday, Muchinguri-Kashiri paid tribute to the ruling party and Government for sending her to South Africa for treatment.
Said Muchinguri-Kashiri:
“My fellow party members, let me tell you that I am fit. I am fit and running around.
Please ignore all statements that you have been getting from the independent media that I lost this or that part of my body, I am back.”
By Own Correspondent| Alec Muchadehama, lawyer to former Energy Minister Samuel Undenge who was last week Friday jailed for abuse of office charges has vowed to appeal at the High Court against his client’s conviction.
Muchadehama gave the notice of appeal after Undenge was sentenced to four years in jail by Harare magistrate Hosea Mujaya after he was found guilty for criminal abuse of office.
Undenge, who was accused of prejudicing the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) of $12 650, will serve an effective two-and-a-half years in prison and was convicted after a full trial.
He was sentenced to four years in prison, with one-and-a-half years suspended on condition he does not commit a similar crime.
It is the state’s case that Undenge in 2016 handpicked a public relations company owned by Zanu-pf legislator Psychology Maziwisa and former ZBC news anchor Oscar Pambuka to do work for Zimbabwe Power Company without going to tender.
However, during his trial Undenge told the court that he was misled by Fruitful Company owners; Pambuka and Maziwisa, who made him sign the letter on the pretext that it was a directive from the Office of the president.
Prosecutor, Mr Jonathan Murombedzi however argued that the court had to jail Undenge to discourage corruption.
He said Undenge was trying to hide behind Pambuka and Maziwisa when he was infact guilty.
“The accused’s blameworthiness in circumstances is very high. He was a good steward and he was a minister in a portfolio that involved anti-corruption.
“He knew well that stooping so low in doing business with Oscar Pambuka and Psychology Maziwisa was unlawful. The fact that they went to him after payments from ZPC stopped meant that he knew what was going on,” said Mr Murombedzi.
He proposed that the former minister be jailed 5 years as a way of sending a message of zero tolerance to corruption especially by public office bearers.
MDC Alliance Nelson Chamisa who completed his Bulawayo rally at 4pm Saturday afternoon, has traveled to the Midlands capital Gweru. ZimEye will bring you LIVE coverage of the function.
LIVEBLAST: There was drama in Marondera when ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa, his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, and environment minister Oppah Muchinguri danced and sang to a track that declares that they are now changing the laws.
Said Mnangagwa, soon after dancing to the song Kutonga Kwaro…Takuchinja mutemo – we are now changing the laws: “We now have a new Zimbabwe a New Era a new dawn, as many as we are so that we know that we do not all see things the same and understand things the same but the word the great work I am giving you is that we have entered a new Zimbabwe the second Republic of Zimbabwe. After entering into the second Republic of Zimbabwe right here in Mash East, Marondera, it is so important for us to remind each other about the heroes who came from this area who liberated our country bringing us to where we are right now without forgetting that we have leaders who lead us to get to where we are right now. So as we are writing about the history of the country there are certain people we can not forget or omit who come from this area. There are many who came from this area we have George Nyandoro. We have Dr Parirenyatwa not this one who is just a son. We still have the seed today. We have comrade Kadungure. We have Rex Nhongo… so many people who came from this area who we can not exclude. I won’t be able to name all of them but all I can say is just be a happy province, this area cannot be forgotten in the list of those who have to be remembered always.
“The journey we are travelling in this new dispensation we must know who we are because we have gathered here as zanu-pf the party that has got a long history from way back in the 1960s up to where we are right now. Right now there are so many other parties that have come later no we do not have anything to do with them but they’re not here is just continuing and continuing and ruling and continuing to rule while we continue to rule us as ZANU PF.
“We will remain ruling, until we continue ruling, and we will continue because we are rulers we are ZANU PF. All those others let them do what they are doing but we will continue ruling them. “
ANALYSIS – By Own Correspondent| Emmerson Mnangagwa’s former Minister for Mash West is now a top soccer player, as it were. In fact unbeknown to many, he has been secretly playing football for several years. According to former Youth And Indeginisation Minister, Patrick Zhuwao, Shamu has been playing “Bhora Musango!” since 2008. He told ZimEye.com, “Webster Shamu was there when “bhora musango” was originated in the Chegutu mayoral election. It was used against Robert Mugabe in 2008. We are now using these brilliant mobil-isation skills against Mnangagwa in the #KwekweHimJuly30 bhora musango campaign.”
Shamu fearures in the below video engaging members of the G40 aligned NPF party.
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday reportedly chickened out of a church-organised presidential candidates’ indaba, which could have brought him within spitting distance of his closest challenger MDC Alliance presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa ahead of the month-end polls.
The high-profile meeting had been organised by the Catholic Church-run Silveira House to enable the 23 presidential contestants in this year’s elections to interact as part of efforts to foster multi-party democracy in the country.
Both protagonists had, according to the organisers, initially confirmed attendance to the interface in Harare before making an 11th hour volte face citing “pressing commitments”.
The meeting eventually attracted a handful of presidential aspirants, among them People’s Rainbow Coalition candidate Joice Mujuru who left in a huff and without speaking, Coalition of Democrats’ Elton Mangoma, Nkosana Moyo of the Alliance for People’s Agenda and MDC-T vice-president Obert Gutu.
Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba yesterday seemed to confirm reports that the Zanu PF leader absconded the gathering to avoid being waylaid into a presidential debate with his rivals.
“We very much support the peace efforts (by the church). In fact, that’s their raison d’etre. (But) where you have them seeking to introduce a presidential debate, then that is beyond the Bible. In our communications strategy, we do not have room for that,” Charamba said.
Spokesperson of the organisers Father Arnold Moyo, without singling out individuals, said candidates who absented themselves gave last-minute excuses. Both Mnangagwa and Chamisa had campaign rallies in Kadoma and Kariba, respectively.
“We sent invitations to all candidates, many of them confirmed but some for various reasons could not come. Some of the reasons highlighted include ‘commitments’ but we are grateful to those who could attend in as far as instilling a sense of multi-party democracy and mutual respect is concerned,” Moyo said.
He added: “The same factors that I have highlighted; commitments that came up. We had hoped that they would send representatives, but that did not happen. We can only invite and hope that they come because we thought this was a very significant event. Initially, there was confirmation.”
But insiders within the Catholic Church said Mnangagwa had told emissaries that he would not attend if Chamisa was part of the gathering.
“Mnangagwa indicated he would not attend if Chamisa was part of the programme. If anything, he was one of a few who never really gave their word that they would come to the event,” NewsDay heard.
Chamisa, who in March this year challenged Mnangagwa for a public television debate ahead of the polls, yesterday said he would have attended had he been formally invited to the meeting .
“No. He was not invited in any formal way. He would certainly have made arrangements. I fear that their invitation may have been lost in the system. It did not reach me,” said Chamisa’s spokesperson Nkululeko Sibanda.
But event organisers insisted that the youthful opposition leader had confirmed, but made a last-minute cancellation on Wednesday night, citing pressing commitments.
“Chamisa confirmed he was coming. He was aware of his rallies and this excuse is only a mirage. The reasons run deeper than this narrative we are being fed,” said a top Catholic priest who declined to be named.
Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference secretary-general Father Fredrick Chiromba was a bit more diplomatic, saying: “Originally, this event was supposed to be held on July 16, people like the MDC Alliance president (Chamisa) said he had cancelled his rallies at the time and later called last night (Wednesday), saying he could not cancel his rallies for a second time. For President Mnangagwa being the leader of the country and a candidate, there is a lot of work.”
He added that as a citizen he was happy with the election preparations so far, adding there was still room for the few sticking points to be resolved through dialogue before the polls.
Zimbabweans troop to the polls on July 30, the first without the country’s founding leader Robert Mugabe who stepped down under pressure from the military, Parliament and ordinary citizens last November.
Chamisa has, however, already raised a red flag, accusing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) of creating conditions that seem to favour Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF party.
By Own Correspondent Uncollected rubbish was spotted for several days at the corner of third street opposite Causeway Post office in Harare, a stone’s throw away from Finance minister Patrick Chinamasa’s offices.
Chinamasa hit the headlines last month when he officially opened a bin in Rusape, Makoni Central, where he is seeking for another mandate as legislator.
Said Chinamasa following social media jokes including the “Chinamasa Challenge” which emanated from the bin ceremony in Rusape:
“I am not ashamed of being part of making Rusape, which falls under my Makoni Central Constituency clean.
I am actually very proud of what we are doing to make our town clean. I am the MP for the constituency so I should be there to address local issues and making Rusape clean is one of the issues.
Social media is actually highlighting our strides towards cleanliness. It (social media) is highlighting an important thing which should be emulated by other towns.
Vendors were throwing rubbish next to where they conduct business from. It is a clear health hazard so those bins are important.
I urged council to introduce those big bins at sources where rubbish was coming from and we are proud as a constituency that we have achieved that.”
Patrick Chinamasa officially opening a bin in Rusape
FORMER Energy and Power Development Minister Samuel Undenge, who was accused of pre-judicing the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) of $12 650, was yesterday sentenced to an effective two-and-a-half years in prison.
Undenge appeared before Harare regional magistrate Mr Hoseah Mujaya facing charges of abuse of office and was convicted after a full trial.
He was sentenced to four years in prison with one-and-a-half years suspended on condition he does not commit a similar crime.
Undenge in 2016 handpicked a public relations company owned by Zanu-PF legislator Psychology Maziwisa and former ZBC news anchor Oscar Pambuka to do work for the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) without going to tender.
While Undenge looked shocked at the sentence, his wife Letina remained calm in the gallery. However, Letina was later seen wailing outside the courtroom.
Undenge’s lawyer Mr Aleck Muchadehama had proposed that he receives a $50 fine or community service.
“Given the background of the matter, the accused could have thought he was doing the right thing. The accused has also already attracted a lot of media publicity which has been stressful for him. Therefore, I propose that a fine of $50 would be suitable for the case or in default of payment 30 days imprisonment,” he said.
Prosecuting, Mr Jonathan Murombedzi argued that the court should jail Undenge as a way of discouraging corruption. He said Undenge was trying to hide behind Pambuka and Maziwisa when he was in fact guilty.
“The accused’s blameworthiness in the circumstances is very high. He was a good steward and he was a minister in a portfolio that involved anti-corruption.
“He knew well that stooping so low in doing business with Oscar Pambuka and Psychology Maziwisa was unlawful. The fact that they went to him after payments from ZPC stopped meant that he knew what was going on,” said Mr Murombedzi.
“A true minister would not have allowed his office to be used as a playground by Oscar and Maziwisa. As for the issue of the message sent to the Zimbabwean public, the way the public views such matters is a way of looking at honour and integrity. Letting people with cases like this go has eroded the confidence of our public in the government system,” he said.
Mr Murombedzi also said once an accused person who has been a Government official is convicted, there is no way they can escape imprisonment.
He further proposed that Undenge be given an effective five years as he had betrayed the trust that the Government of Zimbabwe had placed on him.
The State was represented by Mr Oscar Madhume.
Mr Mujaya ruled that the fact that only a few cases of corruption had been dealt with was demeaning to the justice system and Undenge should have at least apologised to the nation for the way he acted.
Mr Majaya also said community service for Undenge would bring disrepute to the courts.
“The accused is advanced in age and circumstance. He has contributed as a father, a Member of Parliament and diplomat.
“However, evidence has shown that the accused was showing favour to fellow Zanu-PF Member of Parliament Mr Maziwisa and this cannot be dismissed.
“Investors will disappear if we continue to let such matters go (unpunished). Corruption denied the nation of good administration and no statistics are needed to determine the level of corruption in the country,” he said.
“Selective prosecution cannot be considered. Therefore, accused is sentenced to four years in prison. One and a half are suspended on condition that he does not commit the same crime.”
THREE-TIME Commonwealth boxing champion winner Langton “Schoolboy” Tinago has been declared a provincial hero and will be buried at the Midlands Provincial Heroes’ acre on Sunday.
Tinago succumbed to pneumonia on Tuesday morning.
Addressing mourners in Mambo, Gweru, yesterday, Midlands Provincial Affairs Minister Owen Ncube said President Emmerson Mnangagwa had conferred provincial hero status on Tinago.
“With Tinago being a provincial hero, his family automatically qualifies to get benefits from the government. His children will be taken care of. It is now up to you to choose where you want him to be buried, but the state will make sure all resources needed are available. Whether you bury him at the Provincial Heroes’ Acre or at his rural home, he still remains a hero who fought for the country through sports,” said Ncube.
Boniface Pombi, the Tinago family spokesperson expressed gratitude to the government for the gesture.
“As a family we are very grateful and we feel honoured that our brother has been declared a provincial hero. He is a hero indeed because he raised the country’s flag high through boxing. Tinago will be laid to rest on Sunday at the Provincial Heroes’ Acre in Gweru,” said Pombi.
THE former Deputy Speaker of the Zimbabwe Rhodesia Parliament (1979/1980), Mr Walter Nqabeni Mthimkhulu, has died. He was 78.
Mr Mthimkhulu died in the United Kingdom on July 7 and will be buried on Wednesday next week in that country.
Family spokesperson, Mr Mzana Mthimkhulu, yesterday said a parallel burial service would be held at the Brethren in Christ Church in Bulawayo on the day of his burial. He described him as a family’s pillar of strength.
Mr Mthimkhulu became Speaker during the short-lived UANC government led by Bishop Abel Muzorewa that was in power for a brief period from June 1, 1979 until the country attained its independence on April 18 in 1980.
He relocated to the UK in 1985 and worked for a postal agency from that year until retirement in 2005.
A former NDP and Zapu activist, the former deputy speaker joined the UANC in 1975.
ZANU-PF says Simon Khaya Moyo remains the party’s Secretary for Information and Publicity and the public should disregard an earlier communication stating that the party’s Secretary for Legal Affairs, Paul Mangwana, was now the party’s acting spokesperson.
On Thursday, a party official issued a statement saying Mangwana would be the acting national spokesperson as Khaya-Moyo was preoccupied with campaigning for the Bulilima-Mangwe Senatorial seat.
The party’s Administration Director, Dickson Dzora, who had made the earlier pronouncement, clarified Zanu-PF’s position yesterday saying Khaya-Moyo remains the party’s spokesperson.
“This communication seeks to correct the press statement which I issued yesterday on behalf of the ruling Zanu-PF party in which I inadvertently ascribed the role of party spokesperson to Paul Mangwana in the acting capacity until further notice,” he said.
“The reason I gave was that the party spokesperson Cde Simon Khaya Moyo was unavailable due to the election campaigns currently underway. That was not the case and the miscommunication is regretted. Cde SK Moyo is the Zanu-PF Secretary of Information and Publicity and party spokesperson.”
Dzora said Mangwana would be the party’s point of reference on electoral matters.
“Cde Paul Munyaradzi Mangwana is the party’s Secretary for Legal Affairs and a member of the multi-party liaison committee during the harmonised elections scheduled for 30th July 2018. In that capacity, he is the party’s person on matters relating to the electoral processes and interface with election observers,” he said.
Mr Allen TaruvingaA Chipinge man is in trouble after he allegedly forged paternity test results in a bid to avoid looking after his minor child.
Allen Taruvinga has a 15-year-old son with his now deceased baby mama Linda Dzika and since the child was born, he has been denying paternity of the child.
Few weeks ago, a paternity test was conducted and instead of presenting the correct document to his in-laws, Allen allegedly connived with one of his relatives and presented a forged document.
Linda’s uncle, Ainden Mapuranga has since lodged a complaint at Harare Central Police Station under case number IR-0708896 against Allen accusing him of forgery.
Terrence said Allen’s relative was the one who took the fake document to their house. “Before my niece passed away, she had told us that Allen was the father of the child.
“However, he has not been assisting in looking after the child and for the past 15 years it’s us who have been doing everything for the child.
“We tried to engage him (Allen) when Linda was still alive but would deny paternity of the child.
“Our issue was not for him to get back with Linda, we only wanted him to take care of his child but he kept on denying being the father.
“His cousin came with the fake results to our house and after I saw the document I was not convinced that it was real then I went to the DNA company and they confirmed it wasn’t real and then gave us the real document,” he said.- state media/H Metro
The low cost airliner Fastjet yesterday launched daily flights between Bulawayo and Harare as its executives hailed the Government for granting them the route after a three-year wait.
Fastjet is the first low-cost player to operate the Harare-Bulawayo route.
The maiden flight landed at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport just before 10AM to kick off proceedings of the official launch held at the facility. Speaking at the launch, Fastjet Accountable Manager Mr Ed Berry said the flight would boost business, tourism and at the same time service the people of Bulawayo.
“It’s been a long haul, we first applied for the Harare-Bulawayo route in 2015 and now eventually this milestone is happening. We’re here and we are here to stay and we are here to come more often,” he said.
“Over the last two-and-a-half years that Fastjet has been in this country, we have been flying Zimbabweans from Harare to Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam and now at last to Bulawayo.”
Mr Berry said Bulawayo has a lot to offer in the tourism, business and other sectors and Fastjet would help boost those sectors.
“With more than a hundred flights a week, we are doing many things. Ninety percent on time performances and we feel Fastjet is the airline for businessmen, tourism and for the general public here in Bulawayo,” he said.
“Fastjet intends to grow further in Zimbabwe, first of all we will be applying for more routes. We would like to start a second flight a day on this route as soon as possible and then move on to a third flight if need be.”
Fastjet Head of Commercial Mr Peter Barry said the granting of the Harare-Bulawayo route was in sync with President Mnangagwa’s “Zimbabwe is open for business” mantra.
“Thank you to his Excellency President Mnangagwa’s commitment that Zimbabwe is really open for business, that is our take on it. We are now in Bulawayo so Fastjet is open for business,” he said.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Angeline Masuku said the launch of the Harare-Bulawayo route couldn’t have come at a better time.
“There was no other convenient time that it (Fastjet) jets into Bulawayo except this time when our President is calling for investment in Zimbabwe, that Zimbabwe is the best destination for business. Zimbabwe is open for business and indeed Bulawayo is open for business,” said Minister Masuku.
“This is the component of business — connection. Bulawayo is getting connected as we speak.”
Minister Masuku expressed hope that Fastjet will expand its operations and connect Bulawayo to different parts of the world.
“This is one of the fruits of the new dispensation that has brought Fastjet to Bulawayo because as I went through their paper, I realised that they had negotiated for a long time to have their wings fly to Bulawayo and it never happened.
“It has happened because of the new dispensation and may I say we are all part of the new dispensation, you are part of the new dispensation and we thank you very much,” she said.
“As people of Bulawayo, we have always been said to be cry babies, now we stopped crying in November last year and it is all smiles in Bulawayo now. The new dispensation has brought smiles to Bulawayo and this is one of the biggest smiles that the new dispensation has brought to Bulawayo.”
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Dr Joram Gumbo, said the opening up of the skies would result in improved ease of doing business in the country.
“The net effect of this should be reflected in increase in tourism and business between our two cities spawning from enhanced connectivity to global supply chains,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by Mr Allowance Sango, the Director of Aviation and Rail Transport in the ministry.
“We also envisage growth of downstream industries and increased job creation in Bulawayo and surrounding regions due to the overspill from increased business at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport.”
Dr Gumbo said the expansion of operations in the country by Fastjet shows the confidence that the airline has in the country.
“As a Ministry, we greatly welcome the introduction of the service between Harare and Bulawayo by Fastjet, as it is in keeping with the policy enunciated by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde ED Mnangagwa that ‘Zimbabwe is open for business.”
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe Director of Airports, Mr Tawanda Gusha, said Zimbabwe is open to all airlines that want to operate in the country.
A Polygamous Masvingo man married to two siblings fatally struck his first wife with a log all over the body following a domestic dispute in the presence of her younger sister, police have confirmed.
Nhema Nyamayevhu (36) of Nyamayevhu Village under Chief Nyajena who was married to Molly (33) and Alice Elias (25) bashed the elder sibling and she sustained serious body and head injuries. She died upon admission to Chivi District Hospital.
Nyamayevhu is on the run and the issue that triggered the assault was not immediately revealed. Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Charity Mazula said the incident occurred on Monday at around 9PM.
She said the deceased’s body was taken to Chivi District Hospital mortuary for post-mortem but the suspect disappeared after committing the crime.
“I can confirm receiving a murder case involving a polygamous man and his first wife. Police have since launched a manhunt,” said Insp Mazula.
Meanwhile, in another incident a Chivi man stabbed his friend in the abdomen with an okapi knife following a misunderstanding over accusations of knocking on villagers’ homesteads at night. He was left with his intestines protruding.
Insp Mazula said on Saturday at around 11PM, Mudyire Gondo (26) of Gonamutenga Village under Chief Shindi near Ngundu in Chivi allegedly stabbed Tafadzwa Gavi (21) of Shongamiti, ripping open his stomach.
“The two men were coming from watching a World Cup match at Shongamiti Business Centre. While going home Gavi accused Gondo of having a tendency of knocking on villagers’ doors at night and this did not go down well with him.
“Gondo then took a knife from his pocket and stabbed his victim in the abdomen leaving intestines protruding before he took to his heels,” she said.
An unnamed neighbour alerted Mr Gavi’s father who rushed to the scene and took his son to Chivi District hospital where he is receiving treatment.
Police said his condition remains critical and the suspect is still at large.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) yesterday met political party leaders or representatives and gave them samples of ballot papers to be used in the July 30 harmonised elections for them to test.
The meeting, dubbed the National Multiparty Liaison Committee meeting, and is convened by Zec to hear concerns from political formations, also heard issues raised by parties.
It also emerged at the meeting that the major parties, Zanu-PF and the MDC Alliance, had narrowed their differences in the run up to the election and pledged to work together to resolve conflicts under the aegis of the MPLC.
“Zec Commissioner Dr Qhubani Moyo chaired the National Multiparty Liaison Committee meeting at which political parties demanded to be allowed to see where the ballot paper is being kept. They were given samples of the printed ballot paper to ascertain quality and design,” Zec said in a brief statement on its Twitter account @ZECzim.
Zanu-PF legal affairs secretary Munyaradzi Paul Mangwana outlined a number of areas that the parties had discussed.
Said Cde Mangwana: “Today Zanu-PF participated in the Multiparty Liaison Committee Meetings (MPLC) conducted by Zec A number of parties were represented including the MDC-Alliance, which had Mr (Jameson) Timba and Mr (Douglas) Mwonzora as the representatives.”
He confirmed the parties had been given ballot papers to test.
“Zec gave specimens of the actual ballot papers to parties so those who want to test for magic or unexplained vote mutations or migrations can do so. It was noted that they had been given the blank ballots in the past for further testing,” said Cde Mangwana.
“There was no objection to the configuration of the ballot itself but it was also noted that a party not taking part in the elections, called PDP (People’s Democratic Party), had made a court application challenging the current candidate configuration in the Presidential Elections ballot paper design.
“Zanu-PF expressed its recognition of Zec’s responsibility to print, store and distribute the ballots and leaves it to Zec to decide if it would allow the request of a few other parties to escort the distribution cars as well as to guard the provincial warehouses where the ballots are kept,” said Cde Mangwana.
MDC Alliance’s Mr Douglas Mwonzora confirmed that parties were given samples of ballots and agreed on a range of issues.
He told our Harare Bureau last night that the party would subject the papers to tests.
“We are still to vet the ballot papers. The MDC-Alliance also insisted on the ballot papers to be checked batch by batch and all political parties’ stakeholders to monitor their storage until election day,” said Mr Mwonzora.
“They also insisted that all political parties’ stakeholders should accompany the ballot papers to polling stations on elections day,” he said.
According to information from the meeting, some parties requested to test samples of ballots on election day by marking them and see at the end of the election where such guinea ballots would have migrated votes and the commission promised to deliberate and come back to the parties.
Zec did not object to providing parties with samples of indelible ink as requested by some parties.
Zanu-PF registered its objection to the aggressive language used by other parties in threatening to halt a proclaimed election through unconstitutional means.
This is in reference to threats by the opposition MDC Alliance which has said it will disrupt elections if some of its demands are not met.
Political parties also agreed not to distribute food in a partisan manner. The next meeting of MPLC will be on Tuesday next week.- state media
By Lionel Saungweme | Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have blocked a road that leads to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) offices, next to Gifford High School, in Bulawayo. Anti-riot police, wielding AK47 rifles, have blocked 16th Avenue between Golway and Angus Road in Famona suburb.
The barricade coincides with journalist Edmund Kudzai’s exposure of ZEC Chair, Priscilla Chigumba’s alleged sexual relationship with Minister of Mines, Winston Chitando. It also coincides with a Friday 20 November 2018 deadline by Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Alliance President Nelson Chamisa for ZEC to attend to Chigumba’s alleged partiality, credibility of the voters’ roll and printing of the ballot paper amongst other disputed issues.
As to whether the blockade is connected to Chigumba’s alleged sex scandal and or the MDC Alliance’s qualms with ZEC remains to be seen. However, a Famona resident who refused to be identified for fear of victimisation by Government said, “I don’t want to be shot at. I have nothing to do with politics.”
ZEC Commissioner, Qhubani Moyo, switched off his phone when contacted for a comment.
Assistant Inspector Ncube, who stood in for ZRP Bulawayo Public Relations Officer, Inspector Precious Simango, ducked questions. “I am not aware of that (bloackade). I am driving. Let me find out,” Ncube said. However, as pictures ZimEye reveal show, the blockade cannot be denied.
By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has defended the ZEC conduct ahead of the forthcoming polls arguing that the elections body was not birthed by Zanu Pf hence the party did not dictate its conduct.
Addressing thousands of party supporters at Mutare Aerodrome (Friday), Mnangagwa said it was surprising that only one party was complaining about the ZEC despite that the elections body was conducting itself professionally.
Said Mnangagwa:
“There was a party called MDC T which was led by the late Morgan Tsvangirai and now there is one called MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa and another one called MDC T led by Thokozani Khupe.
The Alliance led by Chamisa is the one that is complaining and complaining. Saying ZEC has done what. What has happened to the voters roll. What has it done.
No. ZEC is a creation of the Constitution of the Republic of Zimbabwe, it is not a creation of Zanu.
ZEC was created by parliament and the parliamentary committee which chose ZEC was co-chaired by Chamisa.”
Chamisa is on record calling on ZEC to walk the talk on being a neutral referee in the forthcoming election by ensuring a free and fair election.
The Alliance staged a peaceful demonstration in Harare where the party handed over a petition to the ZEC compelling the elections body to avail an auditable voters roll and allow political parties to monitor the printing of the ballot.
However, the ZEC has revealed that it’s conduct is above board since it is operating within the confines of the law.
“We follow the law and our conduct is guided by the law,” Justice Chigumba is on record saying.
Ajax Capetown Chairman Ari Efstathiou has issued a statement regarding Zimbabwean striker Tendai Ndoro’s departure barely six months into his contract.
Ajax Capetown who were last season relegated to the National First Division after being docked points for using the player who was deemed illegible to play in the ABSA Premiership.
Efstathiou told KickOff that the decision to release Tendai Ndoro was easy stating a number of reasons.
“It was easy: we had an option to extend his contract, which was a two-year arrangement with him,” Efstathiou said. “As you can understand, he was an expensive player and a foreigner. We had to make that decision and look at both sides: in the NFD, you can only use three foreigners, and frankly we’d have to take a third of our TV allowance that we’d be given in the NFD to pay Ndoro.
“He was also 32, turning 33, so everything was pointing more to release him than to hold on to him. It wasn’t something we wanted to do; I had a personal chat with him and he agreed as well that it would probably be best for him to leave.
“So it was a mutual agreement, and a carefully thought-out process, not an instinctive thing.”
The striker could however stay in the league with several Premiership teams chasing for his signature.
The Zimbabwe Under-17 coach Tafadzwa Mashiri has come under fire for reportedly snubbing United Kingdom-based players who were willing to take part in the COSAFA Under-17 tournament.
According to The Herald, Philip Zulu who is the head coach at an academy in Leeds approached Mashiri and his backroom staff, and both parties agreed that the UK contingent would travel to Zimbabwe for camp.
However, Zulu’s efforts to facilitate the movement were frustrated as the Young Warriors coach went on to select only locally-based players for the squad that travelled to Mauritius.
The newspaper indicated that Mashiri and other junior national team coaches connived to select only players from local academies in return for “favours” at the expense of national football development.
In an interview, Zulu warned that such developments would result in players snubbing their home countries to stay in Europe.
“At least France has the guts to admit and say, ‘We need them as part of our highest ambitions’, surely our situation back home is so embarrassing and why don’t we learn,” Zulu said.
“We engaged them for almost two weeks, and they (Under-17 coaches) gave us the guarantee that our boys would be invited to join the camp.
“We asked them to put everything in writing (and) they didn’t do so in time, only to find the names of the selected squad today (yesterday) when we were busy preparing.
The country’ s main opposition party has taken three independent candidates in Chiredzi to court for using the party logo without due approval.
Briefing reporters last week, MDC Provincial Spokesperson Dust Zivhave said the three were obstructing party activities in Chiredzi.The three are Simbarashe Baloyi, Gift Chigidi and Elias Manjeru.
“When one becomes an independent candidate then one ceases to be a party member.
As such the three independent candidates must respect the party constitution,” said Zivhave.
“The trio’ s actions have resulted in confusion.They are using the brand to market themselves- which is in procedural,” added Zivhave.
Press statement by Dr Nkululeko Sibanda –MDC Alliance Presidential Spokesperson
A credible, free and fair election is going to be an outright victory for President Nelson Chamisa, as indicated by all credible opinion polls. President Chamisa will garner no less than 65% of the vote as the momentum for real change and transformation grips the nation.
The nation is ready to behold the new and enjoy change that delivers. Without doubt the MDC alliance has become a household name, dominating the discourse of foes and friends alike, all age groups, cutting across different tribes and races, blaring the fictitious divide between the rural and urban.
Change has become the national mantra and a universal clarion call by all citizens, including those in ZANU PF. As a presidential candidate he has brought a fresh perspective to campaigning, daring Zimbabweans to dream again. He has exuded a combination of clarity of vision, unrivalled charisma, incredible hard work, undisputed policy clarity, great intellect and great skills.
President Chamisa has impeccable international posture and stature through unparalleled skills in statesmanship, brinksmanship and diplomacy.
In just over 4 months, President Nelson Chamisa, together with the people of Zimbabwe, has changed this country’s political landscape, including increasing the electoral fortunes for the MDC Alliance.
As we enter the last stretch in this campaign President Nelson Chamisa is enjoying an upsurge in support, levels of trust, policy clarity and leadership grandeur. He has unpacked a bankable and credible message on job creation, good governance, social service delivery, robust and modern infrastructure for the country and provided credible answers to fundamental national questions.
These include:
1. Cash crisis
2. Corruption
3. Dilapidated infrastructure
4. Poverty
5. Poor services in health, education and welfare
6. State party conflation
This country has had so much about an earthquake, now we see that a political one will take place on the 30th of July. This according to polls, is not negotiable. It is hot under the bridge. We are now certain, more than ever, before an election that a landslide victory is no longer in doubt.
Various credible polls, including the Afro Barometer show that:
1. President Nelson Chamisa will win the forthcoming election comfortably, with double digit margins over the ZANU PF candidate. Given that only opposition supporters are likely to refuse to state their voting intentions, the 20% that refused to state their voting intentions are his voters. As such, nearly all these voters are in President Chamisa’s column, meaning that his weighted total is 57% as a minimum. Our projections show that he will win by 65% of the vote.
2. The majority of Zimbabweans trust President Chamisa over any politician in this country or public figure in political leadership.
3. President Nelson Chamisa is breaking world records in terms of political momentum, within months he has increased his poll number by over 15%. These rates have not been achieved by any politician in the world.
4. President Nelson Chamisa’s policies are favoured and believed by a majority of Zimbabweans.
5. President Nelson Chamisa brings integrity to Zimbabwean politics
6. President Chamisa is trusted to create more jobs for the people of Zimbabwe and this by a 10 points margin. Looking at this number and the fact that most Zimbabweans want jobs, it is clear that most Zimbabweans will vote for someone who will create jobs.
Given these facts, there is one conclusion to be made of the current polling. It shows that President Nelson Chamisa will be elected as the Head of State and Government for Zimbabwe on the 30th of July 2018. The polls show that there will be no rerun as an outright victory is certain.
President Nelson Chamisa has introduced a fresh and new kind of politics, which is anchored on impeccable Statesmanship, great ideas, smart policies, building credibility and exemplary leadership.Clearly the people of Zimbabwe have welcomed the new and are going to usher a new era for Zimbabwe’s history. Now Zimbabweans can be confident that the future of this country will be secured on the 30th of July 2018. They can trust that fellow Zimbabweans are working for a better country.
The President thanks Zimbabweans for both their exceptionalism and determination to make our country great again.
By Own Correspondent| Vice President Kembo Mohadi is now back in the country from South Africa where he was receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the Bulawayo bomb blast.
This was revealed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa while addressing party supporters in Mutare (Friday).
Said Mnangagwa:
“We are happy Cde Oppah Muchinguri survived the attack in Bulawayo.
We are happy that Cde Mohadi is now back in the country but two other cadres are still critical.
Zanu-PF is a party with a history. This is the people’s party,”
VP Mohadi was seriously injured at White City Stadium in Bulawayo last month in a bomb explosion which killed two people and injured 45 others.
He was treated at a local hospital before being airlifted to South Africa where he was receiving physiotherapy.
For the first in more than a decade, an independent aspiring MP has managed to hold a massive roadshow comprising more than 20 vehicles in the city of Masvingo.
Aspiring independent aspiring MP for Masvingo Urban Constituency, Sam Chapfudza, who is a vendor at the popular Chitima Market in Masvingo has vowed to fight for the right to represent the poor and the marginalised in the community.
Chapfudza said the roadshow has been held in preparation for a Mega Rally scheduled for tomorrow.
“Tomorrow we will hold a Mega Rally and as an independent candidate, I represent the interest of the majority of the people of Masvingo,” said Chapfudza.
“I also represent the needs and concerns of vendors and those in the informal sector.I have an inclusive approach towards the development of the constituency,” added Chapfudza.
In Masvingo Urban Constituency there are three frontrunners among the nine candidates who are vying for the Parliamentary Seat.
Chapfudza, Zanu PF’ s Taguma Benjamin Mazarire and Jacob Nyokanhete of the MDC Alliance are the three main contenders for the seat.
Aspiring MDC Alliance MP for Mberengwa North Takavafira Zhou has alleged that Zanu PF aspiring Parliamentarian for the same constituency, Tafanana Zhou is forcing traditional leaders to campaign for the ruling party.
Below is Takavafira Zhou’ s statement:
In typical Zanu PF fashion, incumbent ruling party MP Tafanana Zhou is using traditional leaders to campaign for Zanu PF in Mberengwa North.
Tafanana has over the past days called village heads to gather at the chiefs’ homesteads to be ordered to campaign for him and his political party, Zanu PF
In Chief Mapiravana’s area, the meeting was held at Mabika three days ago, while in Chief Mazivofa’s area, the meeting was held two days ago.
Headmen under Chief Bvute met in Bvute area while those under Chief Mposi met at the the chief’s homestead.
Fundamentally traditional leaders are non-partisan but custodians of culture.
It is therefore nauseating for an incumbent MP to force chiefs to call all the headmen under their jurisdiction and order them to go and campaign for a political party, let alone order them to ensure that people under their jurisfiction vote for Zanu PF in the forthcoming harmonised elections.
Several headmen expressed their displeasure at the MP’s abuse of traditional leaders.
By Hon Patrick Zhuwao| During the 2008 harmonised elections, “bhora musango” was used against President Mugabe. Some ZANU PF officials would urge voters to vote for the ZANU PF candidates in the local authority and parliamentary polls, but urged the voters to select whomever they wanted as president preferably not President Mugabe, the then official ZANU PF presidential candidate. As a result of “bhora musango”, the late Prime Minister Tsvangirai defeated President Mugabe in the 2008 presidential election.
As we head for the 2018 elections, we are seeing the re-emergence of the “bhora musango” phenomenon that saw the MDC’s presidential candidate defeating ZANU PF’s candidate in the 2008 presidential poll. The ghost of 2008 is back to haunt ZANU PF, ten years later. ZANU PF’s members and supporters are doing “bhora musango” against Mnangagwa. He will be lucky if he gets more than 15% of the vote this year. Even Chiwenga has told Mnangagwa that he is unelectable and that he will lose this election.
The current manifestation of “bhora musango” against Mnangagwa has started visibly in Mashonaland West province.
Mashonaland West is not only the province that originated the concept, but it is also the province from which President Mugabe has his origins. ZANU PF members and supporters in Mashonaland West are bitter with the way in which President Mugabe was humiliated by Mnangagwa. ZANU PF candidates like Shamu are preaching “bhora musango” as they attempt to distance themselves from Mnagagwa.
The forthcoming instalments of the ZBR will explain how “bhora musango” is unfolding in Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East and Harare before moving onto Masvingo, the Matebeleland Provinces and Bulawayo, until its ultimate unfolding in Midlands.
ZANU PF members and supporters have resolved to teach Mnangagwa the lesson that politics leads the gun. We must all unite against Mnangagwa so that we stop any further coups in Zimbabwe.
Iwe Neni Tine Basa. Umsebenzi lo Umkhulu.
Asante Sana
Former Energy Minister Samuel Undenge who is at the centre of the Wicknell Chivayo scandal, has been sentenced to four years in prison albeit for another matter.
Undenge was earlier on convicted of a charge of abuse of office and was thereafter sentenced to 4 years in prison by Harare magistrate Hosea Mujaya.
Magistrate Mujaya suspended a year and a half leaving the former minister to serve an effective two and half years in prison.
Undenge was convicted of the offence after the court determined that he truly authored a letter ordering power utility ZESA to engage the services of Oscar Pambuka and Psychology Maziwisa’s company, Fruitful Communications to do public relations work for the power utility.
The magistrate determined that this was despite the fact that Zesa has its own public relations department. As a result of the letter, Fruitful Communications later received a payment of $12 650 from Zesa.
Undenge once served in former President Robert Mugabe’s administration and is now the first former Mugabe minister to be convicted of a crime, somewhat to confirm what the military declared last year when they removed Mugabe in November 2017. Back then they said they were only targeting criminals around former president Robert Mugabe. To date however, only Undenge has been jailed.
Caps United have finally recovered their team Bus after clearing their former employee Joyce Kapota’s dues on Wednesday.
The team Bus was attached last month by the Sheriff of the High Court after the 2016 Champions reneged on a payment settlement plan in the $10 000 debt owed to its former employee Ms Joyce Kapota.
The former club’s communication officer, Kapota, was awarded $10400 by the Labour Court in a non-payment of terminal benefits dispute following the unlawful termination of Kapota contract in February.
Speaking to SportBrief, Kapota confirmed that she finally received her dues after 40 days of the attachment ruling.
” Its true that I finally received my dues from Caps United today (Wednesday), 40 days after we attached their bus,” she confirmed.
Kapota was reported to have received $3 460 prior to the Sheriff’s gesture as part of the payment plan, which the club later on defaulted.
The latest development comes at a time when the team is set for a blockbuster match against current log leaders, FC Platinum at Mandava Stadium on Sunday.
The two teams have met 14 times so far in the professional league, Caps United dominate the statistics after winning five, drew 8 and lost only once to the current Champions.
By Farai D Hove| The US government has announced that the man at the helm of reviewing sanctions against President Emmerson Mnangagwa is the one the world’s superpower has chosen to come and observe the upcoming polls.
The no-nonsense Senator Jeffry Lane Flake serves as the junior United States Senator for Arizona, elected in 2012. He is a Republican and has already revealed that sanctions will only be reviewed after the upcoming polls.
“We will have Senator Flake as part of our delegation to come and observe elections here in Zimbabwe,” announced Ambassador Nichols Friday afternoon.
ZimEye can reveal that Senator Flake who is the same who met Chamisa, Biti and Mavhinga in December last year has a zero tolerance to electoral fraud.
Flake jets into Zimbabwe days before the 30th July polls.
The Afrobarometer survey which President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s media celebrated last month when it reported that MDC Alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa is getting 31% of the vote, has reported a new paper that predicts a slight up for Chamisa.
Chamisa has closed in on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s gap down to 3 percentage points. Chamisa is now projected to get 37 percent of the vote compared to Mnangagwa’s 40 percent. 20 percent of the voters refused to reveal their preferences or are still undecided about who to vote for. A measly 3 percent confirmed that they will be voting for the rest of the 21 candidates combined.
Afrobarometer says Chamisa needs to win 66 percent of the 20 percent who are undecided in order to get 50 precent + 1 votes in order to avoid a runoff. Afrobarometer announced saying :
Important, too, are the 20% of citizens who did not declare a voting intention. This group is made up of the 15% who refused to answer the voting-intentions question and the 5% who said they did not know whom they would vote for.8 Yet the choices of undeclared voters at the ballot box could have a decisive effect on the outcome of the presidential election. So how might they vote? Some speculative estimates are possible, as follows:
If undeclared voters split their votes in the same proportions as declared voters (i.e. 40% for the ZANU-PF and 37% for the MDC), then we estimate that the incumbent candidate could win on the first round.
But what if, as seems more likely, undeclared voters lean toward the opposition? What proportion of these reticent citizens would have to vote for the MDC to ensure the opposition a majority of votes (50% plus one) on the first round? According to our calculation (see Box 1), the MDC would have to obtain about two-thirds (66%) of undeclared votes in order to secure a first-round victory in the presidential election. In our opinion, this prospect lies within the realm of reasonable possibility.
By Own Correspondent| Zanu Pf national chairperson, Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri today made her first public appearance at a Zanu Pf rally in Mutare, following the bomb blast in Bulawayo last month which claimed two lives.
Muchinguri Kashiri was injured during a Zanu Pf rally at White City Stadium together with several party stalwarts including Vice President Kembo Mohadi and had to be flown out of the country to a South African hospital for medical services.
Muchinguri Kashiri made her first public appearance today (Friday) while attending a rally at Mutare Aerodrome near Sakubva where President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to address party supporters.
Other Zanu Pf leaders attending the rally include Vice President Constantino Guvheya Chiwenga, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs Cde Monica Mutsvangwa and National Political Commisser Retired Lieutenant General Engelbert Rugeje among others.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) yesterday met political party leaders or representatives and gave them samples of ballot papers to be used in the July 30 harmonised elections for them to test.
