Heart rending picture of Job Sikhala undergoing surgery in leg irons. @amnesty pic.twitter.com/ESAziBaat1

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) November 29, 2023

By A Correspondent- Presidential spokesperson George Charamba, who uses the name Dhonzamusoro007 on twitter has taken to social media to boast of his latest asset, a 130 horsepower Belarusian tractor.

Charamba said:

A NEW BEAST IN THE FLEET:

The Farm has just acquired a 130-horsepower Belarusian Tractor whose awesome tractive power makes all our implements mere “babies”!

Because of this major acquisition, the first 60 hectares are already done and planted, anxiously awaiting for the rains.

Some 70 more hectares are being worked on so we do our bit as a farming unit.

Ikanaya chete tinobatsira kuzadza matura enyika!!!! #NyikaInorimirwaNeveneVayo!!!!!

By A Correspondent- Three people have appeared in court on allegations of extorting US$100 000 from a suspected thief as an inducement to stop them from reporting the theft to the police.

Elizabeth Nyamande (35), Evernice Nyamande (30) and Emmanuel Ngorima (38) were charged with extortion when they appeared before Harare Magistrate Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa who freed them on US$500 bail each.

It is the State’s case that the trio received information that the complainant (who is not named) was in possession of large sum of money she had stolen from an unknown person in South Africa.

The trio approached the complainant and demanded US$100 000 cash so that they would not report her to the police.

It is alleged that the complainant gave the trio the money, some of which they used to buy motor vehicles.

Officers from CID Homicide conducted investigations leading to the recovery of Mazda Attenza from Nyamande, Toyota Corolla Axio from Evernice Nyamande and Toyota Corolla together with US$2 000 from Ngorima. The Herald

By A Correspondent- Forever Associates Zimbabwe (Faz), a shadowy organisation linked to the country’s spy agency, has retraced its footsteps back into the political arena, this time campaigning for ruling party candidates vying for nine parliamentary seats which fell vacant following recalls by the self-imposed main opposition party secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu.

Vacancies were created when Tshabangu wrote to the clerk of Parliament, announcing that he had recalled 14 legislators drawn from Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North and Bulawayo provinces as well as Mabvuku-Tafara constituency in Harare.

Several opposition local authority councillors were also recalled. Now as the 9 December by-elections draw closer, Faz, which was at the centre of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s disputed electoral victory, is using both overt and covert tactics to win erstwhile opposition seats.

While some vacancies will be filled without going to polls through proportional representation, there will be by-elections in nine constituencies.

Gathered information indicates that Faz, which is headed by deputy director-general of the Central Intelligence Organisation Walter Tapfumanei, has therefore redeployed its officers in the constituencies where they are using various campaign strategies to help Zanu PF snatch seats from CCC and achieve its aim to have a two-thirds majority in Parliament that can enable the ruling party to tinker with the constitution.

In Lupane, where there is a by election, Faz is employing intimidation tactics by threatening villagers that they will be excluded from government food handouts and agricultural input programmes if they continued voting for the opposition.

In other areas, Faz members are carrying out door-to-door campaigns, with Zanu PF cell registers forcing residents to give out their personal details that the shadowy group will use on its exit poll survey desks.

Gift “Ostalos” Siziba, the CCC deputy spokesperson, in an interview, confirmed that Faz has gone back to the ground in its bid to push for Zanu PF victories in the campaigns albeit through undemocratic means.

“Faz is working in communities so that Zanu PF wins on the margin of terror. They are also coming into urban areas now and the case of slain Bishop Tapfumanei Masaya is the latest example.

“In a free and fair election, Zanu PF knows that it will never win a single seat in those by-elections. We have said that any elections without reforms is not about political choices but life and death. The elections are no longer about contestation of ideas but life and death,” he said.

Ezoic

Siziba revealed that the CCC has since de[1]vised ways to slow down Faz and push back on its nasty activities.

“We are deploying young people to defend the vote. We know they want to win through ballot stuffing. As a democratic party, we are also continuing to report cases to police even though they seem powerless to tackle Faz. We are saying police under all circumstances must perform their constitutional duties of protecting citizens,” said the deputy CCC spokesperson.

During the last elections, details of how the intelligence service through Faz was running the Zanu PF campaign as defined in its operating manual titled “Scope of Campaign Activities”.

Part of the document reads: “The mainstay of this campaign is door-to-door intimate voter contact. This allows the volunteer to move from house-to-house and workplace-to-workplace, talking to individual voters one at a time. This, in turn, enables the volunteer to know the problems voters face, gauge their level of support for party and candidate, and tailor massages and campaign activities to address their concerns. These visits must not be once-off, but must become regular to help the party to dominate and saturate the environment while denying the same to opponents.”

Faz also played a major role in destabilising the opposition at the candidate nomination exercise for the 23 August polls. The shadowy group planted double and sometimes triple parallel candidates to those genuinely put forward by the Nelson Chamisa-led party, in a well-orchestrated ploy to split the opposition vote.

The chicanery involved sponsoring the candidates to submit nomination papers to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) without the approval of the CCC and also forging the signatures and logo of the party. The trend was rampant in Harare’s peri-urban constituencies where Zanu PF was anxious to outfox the opposition.

Kudakwashe Chatambudza was the only candidate on the official CCC shortlist for Epworth South, but two names, Solomon Baramasimbe and Dydmus Bande, emerged on a Zec list, making a total of three CCC candidates vying for that constituency and the mess was engineered by Faz.

In Harare East, where Allan “Rusty” Markham and Tendai Biti made it to the final CCC short[1]list and Markham emerged as the preferred candidate but, shockingly, a strange individual Malvin Razaru, appeared on the Zec list as a CCC candidate.

Joana Mamombe was the CCC candidate for Harare West, but Faz pushed through Farai Michael Padzarondora to appear alongside her as a CCC candidate.

In St Mary’s (Chitungwiza), Freddy Michael Masarirevhu of the CCC was listed allegedly without his knowledge as another candidate after the party’s official candidate, Brighton Mazhindu.

Faz forged signatures as well as the party logo and proceeded to pay nomination fees for him. Harare South, a peri-urban area represented by Mnangagwa’s relative Tongai Mnangagwa on a Zanu PF ticket, ended up having three candidates for the CCC: George Magweta, Dorothy Musonza and Trouble Hasha after Faz interference.

While Agency Gumbo was the official candidate for the CCC in Hatcliffe, Faz added one more, Lloyd Sande, in a bid to split the opposition and harvest votes for Zanu PF.

Faz spread its operation to Hunyani constituency where Lovemore Chinoputsa, the official CCC candidate, appeared on the Zec list with another individual, Terrence Khumbula, using the opposition party name.

In Hatfield, the CCC’s Revai Nyamuronda again appeared on the Zec final list with another candidate pushed by Faz to contest using the same party name, Admire Griza. In Bulawayo, three constituencies had two CCC double candidates — Phelandaba-Tshabalala, Entumbane-Njube and Pumula.

CCC candidates Donald Mabutho and Bekithemba Nyathi both filed papers to contest in ward 9, again at the instigation of Faz.

Soon after the August 23 general elections, foreign election observer missions accredited to Zimbabwe flagged the involvement of Faz in manipulating voting preferences, predominantly in rural areas.

Faz has been accused of intimidating the rural electorate while mobilising support for Zanu PF as part of Mnangagwa’s power retention plan. NewsHawks

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service will be hosting a family week for all prisons from 4 to 10 December 2023.

In a statement, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) invited relatives and friends of inmates, Churches, Corporate Artists, and individuals to visit inmates across the country.

“Visitors should bring National ldentity cards” reads the statement. The Chronicle

By A Correspondent- The government has set up 46 cholera treatments in the country as it ups intervention measures curbing the spread of Cholera.

This comes as the nation recorded 1 744 new suspected cases of cholera last as compared to 1 259 in the previous week.

Addressing journalists during a post Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere revealed that Zvishavane and Mbire are the new districts that reported cases during this period.

“The highest number of cholera cases during this period were from Harare (705) and Chitungwiza (163). Cabinet advises that by 26 November, 2023 46 cholera treatment camps were set up. Oral rehydration points are being set up in communities to bring services closer to the people.

“Case management and rapid response team’s training sessions are ongoing using workstations, on the job and classroom methods to improve on disease management. Furthermore, health education on cholera preventation and control measures including hygiene promotion is ongoing in all provinces,” said Dr Muswere.

He noted that training of City Health promoters in Chitungwiza and Harare started this week targeting 300 community members who will spearhead door-to-door campaigns.

Community dialogues, inter faith discussions and sensitisation of key stakeholders on cholera are also planned for the coming week in high cholera incidence districts.

“Cabinet has reiterated that there is need to improve water, sanitation and hygiene in communities. To that end, Cabinet wishes to restate that where the Local Authorities are failing to provide infrastructure, Government will continue to strengthen interventions,” said the Minister.

He further revealed that specific interventions are being put in place to ensure the availability of safe water trucking in affected urban areas, continuation of drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes, monitoring water quality in all areas, provision of household water treatment technologies, repairing of burst sewer pipes and the regular refuse collection and removal of garbage.

He further noted that authorities will also be ensuring restrictions of gatherings in all cholera affected areas, supervision of all burials in all cholera affected areas, having functional public toilets in all public places by involvement of private sector in the installation of temporary toilets; and the installation hand washing and sanitation devices in all public places be expedited. Sunday News

By A Correspondent | An SABC branded video circulated suggesting that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has been demoted and replaced by Oppah Muchinguri, and also that the late President Robert Mugabe’s preferred successor Sydney Sekeramayi has bounced back into government.

“I hear from SABC news about the Zim new cabinet ministers 1.vice presidents Kembo Mohadi and Oppah Muchinguri also saying Chinamasa back to his old job finance minister. Anyone from home he can confirm that?,” wrote Radie Thabiso.

The ZANU PF Information Department has viciously dismissed the clip.

ZimEye reveals that the clip has its origins during the week just after the notorious military coup back in 2017. During that period there were many guesses and misses misleading broadcasters and publishers, and the clip was first cited on 26 Nov 2017.

VERDICT: No. Constantino Chiwehga has not been fired and there has not been any cabinet reshuffle this week.

By-A Harare man has lost more than US$500 to two sex workers who lured him for a threesome.

The unsuspecting man, only identified as Tafadzwa, was seduced by one Sasha and agreed to pay US$5.
Sasha went on to introduce him to her partner-in-crime, only identified as Mitchel, and they offered him a threesome for US$10.
The three booked flat 2, at Gail Court along Samora Machel Avenue, where they were charged US$10 by one Sniper.
Tafadzwa quenched his sexual appetite with the two.
Sasha and Mitchel turned on Tafadzwa, soon after the session, demanding more money.
They snatched a wallet from his vehicle, containing US$500, and took to their heels.
One passerby called police and the two were arrested and taken to Roadport Police Base where Tafadzwa recovered some of his money.
“I regret falling for these ladies,” said Tafadzwa.
“I could not let them escape with my money since it was a lot and belongs to my grandmother.
“We collected it from family members and I was supposed to take it to our grandmother.
“Tawirirana US$5 ndokuzonzi threesome unoiziva here, wedzera tiite neumwe wangu uyu.
“Ipapo ndipo pandabwaira.
“I managed to recover US$340 when police arrested them,” said Tafadzwa.
Sasha and Mitchel refused to entertain H-Metro.
The two were released after Tafadzwa refused to make a formal report against the sex workers.
Tenants at Gail Court called on authorities to deal with their counterparts in Room 2, saying it was being used by drug dealers and sex workers to extort people.
“We want the tenant called Sniper to be evicted because we are tired of being harassed by police because of people who stay there.
“Ndimo murikuitirwa mabasa ehumhondi, njuga nekusvutirwa zvinodhaka,” said one tenant. H Metro

By- Parents Monday besieged and disrupted learning at Hotsprings Secondary School in Chimanimani, baying for the blood of two teachers and accusing them of initiating more than 23 students into satanism.

Police had to be deployed to the school as the angry parents protested and shouted profanities at the two teachers (names withheld).
The arrival of the police did not deter the angry mob from picketing and they ended up surrounding the police truck, demanding their arrest.
“We will not leave. We are paying school fees for our children enrolled at this school, so it is our right to demand the safety of our children here. We are prepared to be arrested,” shouted the protesters.
Weekender understands that since Sunday, learners at the school have been experiencing unexplained phenomena, including throwing themselves on the ground and uttering inaudible words.
Ms Netsai Kudana of Nemutenzi Village believes that the two teachers are behind the strange phenomena affecting learners, parents and teachers at the school.
She said her brother’s 15-year-old daughter, whom she stays with, had manifested the previous day, together with four other girls at one of the teachers’ houses.
“My niece is struggling to walk since yesterday (Sunday) when she manifested and slithered like a snake. We are clueless on how to assist her, the teachers involved should give us the answers.

“It all started yesterday morning when we heard that my niece’s classmate was manifesting at the school’s staff quarters.
“People gathered to witness the drama. At least four girls were writhing on the ground and uttering inaudible words. My niece then fell to the ground and started slithering like a snake. Her classmate said she is part of the group that was initiated into satanism by their teacher,” said Ms Kudana.
Mr Maxwell Macheza said his daughter was the first one to manifest during a church service.
“It happened at church and we decided to take her to the teacher’s house. She said the teacher (name provided) was directing her to kill her mother and offer her as a sacrifice to the cult.
“She said they were initiated through sweets. Apparently, this teacher sells sweets at the school. At least five learners manifested yesterday. They all claimed that there are three snakes in the teacher’s house. They also claimed that there is a clay pot with their names in the teacher’s house,” said Mr Macheza.
Acting Chief Mutambara sent a message that a traditional leader was ready to assist the affected learners at his place.
As soon as that message was relayed, more children started manifesting, throwing themselves to the ground, screaming and begging to be spared by the teacher.
Said Mr Macheza: “We will not take our children to the chief’s place. The chief should come here and solve the matter because it is happening at this school. We will not leave until our children recover from these attacks.”
A School Development Committee member, Mrs Gloria Machaya, accused the school head, a Mr Matsikure, of working in connivance with the two teachers.
“We asked Chief Mutambara to second a traditional healer to the school and he had agreed, but the school headmaster, Mr Matsikure, called the chief in our presence. He did not know that the chief’s phone was on loud speaker and he told him that he suspected that everything was being stage managed.

“He said the learners were faking everything. That is why Chief Mutambara asked us to bring the children to his place,” said Ms Machaya.
In an interview on Tuesday, Manicaland Provincial Education Director, Mr Edward Shumba confirmed the skirmishes at the school.
He, however, said finding a lasting solution to the issue is beyond their jurisdiction as the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
“I understand that there is an alleged satanism case at Hotsprings Secondary School, but unfortunately the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education does not deal with such matters. We are educationists and we have no regulation to deal with such cases.
“These community issues should be dealt with at community level,” said Mr Shumba.
He said he was yet to receive a report on whether lessons at the school were disrupted by the irate parents.
Acting Chief Mutambara said he is still waiting to be appraised by the SDC as he had instructed them to bring the affected learners to his place so that he can deal with the matter.
“I can second a traditional or spiritual healer to help them there but we had agreed that the children should be brought to my homestead for assistance. However, that was not done on Monday. I will wait to hear from the parents on the way forward,” he said.
On Tuesday, the parents besieged the school again, insisting that teachers should be transferred.

By-The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said they used US$188 million in the disputed August elections.

The electoral management body said 71 per cent of the initial budget allocation of ZWL860 billion (US$188 million) from the treasury was used for the preparation and holding of the elections.

The budget supported various aspects, including the acquisition of electoral material and equipment, vehicles, training, and the welfare of election officials. ZEC also mentioned that a total of 132,958 electoral officers were recruited for the election, and there were no shortages of personnel, ZimLive reported citing a report by ZEC. The commission commended the treasury for releasing the election funding in a timely manner. Said the electoral body:

Treasury allocated the commission ZWL860 billion activities leading to the conduct of the 2023 plebiscite and the actual election.

The commission procured sensitive and non-sensitive election materials and equipment through government funds.

Unaudited expenditure as at 18 September 2023 is ZWL612 billion (71 percent).

Treasury availed the budget in time save for delays experienced in some circumstances which was urgently attended to.

The ministry of finance is commended for timely releases of the budget.

The remaining funds are planned to be used for the upcoming by-elections scheduled for December 9. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) received additional support from the European Union-funded Zim-ECO project, which mainly focused on publicity programs and media monitoring. However, the EU has expressed its intention to suspend its financial support of $5 million to ZEC. This decision was made due to concerns raised by international Electoral Observation Missions regarding the independence and transparency of the commission during the previous elections. 

By- A member of the ruling Zanu PF party in Matabeleland South Province assigned to the Beitbridge West constituency’s ongoing campaign for the 09 December by-elections died on Saturday while on a campaign trail.

The deceased, identified as Sister Moyo Bhebhe, was reportedly taken to Beitbridge Hospital after complaining that she was not feeling well but died soon after admission.

Her death was also announced in a ZANU PF WhatsApp group. The message that was posted in the WhatsApp group on Saturday seen by NewsDay, read:

Comrades, this is both painful and energy-sapping. We were with this sister in the Ward 14 programme in Beitbridge West.

Yesterday, (Friday) we left her at the command centre. Today (Saturday) we went with her but she appeared unwell.

We tried convincing her to remain behind but she insisted on going to the programme.

When we knocked off, she showed signs of stress and we took her to hospital where all failed with her blood sugar level reported high, above 40. It is too hot here (in Beitbridge).

To us it’s painful but her courage to die on duty is worth all respect. For us who were with her, it has badly impacted us. But this is a heroine who has gone.

The deceased was campaigning for the ZANU PF candidate for Beitbridge West Thusani Ndou who lost to CCC’s Morgan Ncube in the 23-24 August 2023 Harmonised Elections.

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa’s preferred candidate, Morgan Ncube, who was recalled in October by party activist Sengezo Tshabangu who declared himself CCC interim secretary general, will contest again. Tshabangu’s candidate is Blessing Choeni.

Other candidates for Beitbridge West by-elections are Blessing Brendan Dube an independent and Thoriso Moyo, the only female candidate, from ZAPU.

Statement by the Citizens Coalition for Change

INJUSTICE: We have consistently stated that Hon. Jon Sikhala is a political prisoner who is being persecuted by the Harare regime through fabricated charges.

The High Court has overturned Hon. Job Sikhala’s conviction and found him not guilty of obstructing justice.

Unfortunately, he will continue to be held in custody due to other baseless charges.

We continue to demand for his release. #FreeWiwa

By A Correspondent| Disqualified 2023 Presidential elections candidate Savior Kasukuwere’s aide Jaqueline Sande has been summoned to appear before a Zanu PF district disciplinary hearing on charges of violating the party constitution.

Sande was Kasukuwere’s legal advisor and addressed countless press briefings before and after the sitting of the nomination court on behalf of the former Zanu PF National Commissar.

According to a letter circulating on social media,

“This follows the prohibition order and notice of charges delivered to your place of residence in July 2023 due to your connection to the self-exiled and unrepentant Savior Kasukuwere which the Disciplinary Committee deemed compromising as per Article 3 Section 13 (2) of the Zanu PF constitution.

“According the Party constitution a hearing must be held and you must state your side of the case. You are advised to attend as failure to do so shall be recorded as admission of guilty and a judgement be passed in your absence.

“Your hearing will be on the 3rd of December 2023. Venue: Bond party office. Time: 3pm,” reads a letter signed by District Disciplinary Vice Chairperson Moses Chitsa.

By A Correspondent- The Ministry of Health and Child Care has scrapped the centralised nurses’ online application system in an effort to decentralise the recruitment of nurses and cater for applicants from across the country.

The online application system has been heavily criticised by the public for being exclusionary as qualified locals were failing to secure places at training schools in their areas.

The nurses’ recruitment drive has been under scrutiny after a pattern emerged that the bulk of trainee nurses recruited at local hospitals were from other areas.

In a statement, the ministry said the January 2024 general nurse training intake will be province-based.

“Provinces will recruit in January, May or September depending on availability of training posts,” read part of the statement.

A total of 292 training posts are available for the January 2024 intake at 12 training institutions in seven provinces which are Bulawayo, Harare, Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Masvingo, and Midlands.

Applicants for the three-year diploma in general nurse training should meet the minimum qualification; five Ordinary level subjects, which include English, Science and Mathematics.

“Candidates must be aged between 18 and 30 years on the date of commencement of training, which is  8 January, 2024,” reads the statement.

Zimbabwe Nurses Association (Zina) president Mr Enock Dongo said the move is a step in the right direction.

“Long back recruitment was done physically but due to corruption and complaints from the public, the Government introduced the centralised e-recruitment system,” he said.

“However, over the years, there has been an outcry from disadvantaged citizens, who either have no internet or gadgets to access the system. This is why you see the ministry has decided to revert back to the old system which was decentralised,” said Mr Dongo.

He said through the decentralised recruitment system people from various provinces were likely to secure training posts and possibly secure jobs.

“You could find someone from Harare working in Kezi yet there are people from that area that have the qualifications to train as nurses,” said Mr Dongo.

By A Correspondent- The besieged Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has escalated its diplomatic offensive by engaging regional, continental and international parliaments to intervene over the illegal recall of its legislators.

The move is apparently linked to the party’s wider campaign to force fresh elections after it disputed the August 23-24 polls which it described as a “gigantic fraud”.

Following the recall early this month of 15 Members of Parliament and 17 councillors by one Sengezo Tshabangu — who claims to be the party’s interim secretary-general — the Nelson Chamisa-led CCC notified the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Sadc Parliamentary Forum, Pan African Parliament and the Africa Caribbean & Pacific-European Joint Parliamentary Assembly of “continued abuse” of Parliament and Zimbabwe’s Constitution.

IPU has since responded to CCC’s complaint over the “unconstitutional” parliamentary recalls, amid latest claims that Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda reportedly said he did not see Chamisa’s September 11 letter in time advising him that the recalls were illegal.

IPU, a global organisation of 180 national parliaments, discussed CCC’s complaints at its 147th Assembly that took place in Luanda, Angola, from October 23 to 27 and proposed to send a mission to Zimbabwe before January 2024.

At a hearing held by the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, Mudenda stated that section 129(1)(k) of the Constitution stipulates that the seat of an MP becomes vacant ‘if s/he ceases to belong to the political party and if the party, by written notice to the Speaker, declares that the member has ceased to belong to it.

“According to the complainant, Tshabangu is an imposter with no position in the CCC and who has no authority to request the recall of any CCC members. Moreover, none of the individuals concerned in Parliament stated that they had left the CCC,” the committee said in a document seen by NewsDay.

“In the hearing with the IPU Committee, the Speaker of the National Assembly stated that Tshabangu’s letter of October 3, 2023, had been received before the letter from Chimasa dated September 11. Had this been the other way round, the Speaker’s decision may have been quite different.

“He (Mudenda) also stated that the CCC did not have clear and publicly known internal structures or the names of those holding the most important positions in the party. Should a request to recall members of the National Assembly belonging to Zanu-PF be put before him, he said it was public knowledge who is entitled within the party to make that request.”

In its complaint to IPU, the CCC accused Mudenda of acting unconstitutionally by ignoring the written and oral submissions of known party members, refusing to hold any discussions on this issue, and accepting the letter from Tshabangu without ensuring that it was a legitimate communication from the political party concerned.

“According to the complainant, these allegations have to be seen as part of a pattern of repression, the erosion of the independence of the Judiciary and the shrinking civic space that accompanied the disputed 2023 elections, as well as pre-existing violations of the rights of parliamentarians belonging to the opposition,” the IPU Committee said.

The IPU Governing Council was advised that the CCC case requires setting up a mission to Zimbabwe as soon as practicable ahead of the IPU Committee’s 173rd session scheduled to take place in January 2024.

Although it appreciated Mudenda’s argument, it was puzzled by the swiftness with which the decision to revoke the mandate of the newly-elected parliamentarians was taken and the fact that no debate on the issue was allowed

“It wishes to receive additional clarification from the parliamentary authorities of the National Assembly and the Senate. The committee requests that the secretary-general conveys this decision to the parliamentary authorities and other relevant national authorities, the complainant, and any interested third party likely to be in a position to supply relevant information to assist the committee in its work,” the committee added.

Tshabangu said CCC’s efforts were futile and were being spearheaded by “criminals” around Chamisa.

“It’s a futile exercise by criminals around the president (Chamisa). They are singing for their last supper. We shall be deploying seasoned credible leaders with political capital on a diplomatic offensive before the Sadc Summit to set the record straight,” he said.

However, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said the move was part of several remedies that the party would use to push the Zanu-PF regime for another election.

“The idea is to bring pressure to bear from every angle possible. Eventually, the regime will remain with no choice but to capitulate and do the right thing, which is to acknowledge its illegitimacy and enter negotiations to bring back legitimacy through the conduct of an actual election,” he said.

By A Correspondent- A man from Chitungwiza appeared in court over the weekend facing allegations of trying to defraud apostolic sect leader Lloyd Gwasira popularly known as Madzibaba Moses Gwanzura, a house that he is selling.

Nigel Mutambiikwa appeared before a Chitungwiza magistrate charged with fraud.

The State opposed his admission to bail on the grounds that he had supplied an invalid address.

Mutambiikwa said he lived in Murisa Park of which there is no area by that name in Chitungwiza.

Therefore, he was remanded in custody to November 30 pending verification of his residential address.

The  State alleged that at an unknown date to the prosecutor, Mutambiikwa and three others who are yet to be summoned before the court hatched a plan to defraud Madzibaba  Gwanzura after learning that he was selling his house in Manyame Park, Chitungwiza.

The accused persons manufactured a fake agreement of sale in which Mutambiikwa purported to have bought Madzibaba Gwanzura’s house.

His three accomplices were arrested at Madzibaba Gwanzura’s house when they were intimidating his agent with a pistol and handcuffs claiming that the house was theirs and producing documents pertaining to the house.

Mutambiikwa allegedly never filed a police report or provided evidence that he once bought the house in question for US$17 000 but could not possess it.

Madzibaba Gwanzura then filed a police report leading to Mutambiikwa’s arrest.

By A Correspondent- Two people appeared in court last Friday for allegedly tendering a fake High Court Order to the police to assist them in getting custody of two minor children.

Gift Phiri (54) and Lois Rodo Madyavanhu (65) appeared before Harare Magistrate Mrs Appollonia Marutya charged with fraud.

The pair was remanded in custody pending a bail ruling today.

The complainant is Diana Eunice Kawenda who is a lawyer.

Prosecutor Mr Takudzwa Jambawu alleged that on November 3, Phiri and Madyavanhu proceeded to ZRP Milton Park in the company of her Legal practitioner Paidamoyo Madondo armed with a High Court order number 0433706 under case number HC4001/23 seeking assistance from the police in executing the court order which was granting Madyavanhu custody of two minor children who were staying in Belvedere, Harare.

The court heard that Sergeant Misho of ZRP Milton Park accompanied them to Belvedere for the execution of the court order.

Upon arrival at the house, they met Lucy Kawenda who was staying with the two minor children and they showed her the court order.

Sergeant Misho interrogated her and contrary to what has been said by the accused persons, the two minor children were given to Lucy and George Kawenda by the Social Welfare.

Lucy then called her legal representative Diana Eunice Kawenda who came to the scene and upon sight of the court order, she then queried its authenticity prompting her to seek some clarification from the High Court Registrar.

Due to the facts established that there was a dispute, the police officer returned to the station without executing it.

Then on November 6, Diana Eunice Kawenda approached the High Court Registrar’s office and was told that the court order was indeed a fake court order.

Under court order 0433706 was a different case and on number HC 4001/23 was another case.

She then filed a report leading to the arrest of Phiri and Madyavanhu.

By A Correspondent- Police in Matebeleland South have smashed a well-orchestrated smuggling syndicate at Plumtree Border Post and recovered five smuggled Honda Fit vehicles, including some an assortment of goods illegally brought into the country from Botswana.

In 2021, Government outlawed the importation of vehicles older than 10 years in a move that is meant to revitalise the local motor industry, reduce the import bill and cut greenhouse emissions.

Under Statutory Instrument 89 of 2021, second-hand vehicles manufactured 10 years ago, except commercial vehicles and those for agricultural purposes, are no longer permitted into the country.

Government said the importation of second-hand cars is contributing to road carnage and also worsening pollution thereby hampering efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change.

The Honda Fit vehicles that were being smuggled into the country were manufactured more than 10 years ago.

The demand for the cars, which are mostly used as pirate taxis, created a market for smugglers to bring the cars into the country illegally.

A Chronicle news crew last week visited Plumtree Border Post and saw some of the smuggled cars parked at the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) customs yard following their seizure.

Smugglers have resorted to cutting the security perimeter fence near the border to create illegal entry points.

In an interview, the acting officer commanding police in Bulilima and Mangwe districts Superintendent Rosemary Mangena said they impounded a number of Honda Fit vehicles during a crackdown on smugglers.

“There are vehicles which are brought into the country illegally as the vehicles were manufactured more than ten years ago.

“In Mbwenda we have recovered four Honda fits and recently a Toyota Runx,” she said.

Supt Mangena said alcohol and groceries were usually smuggled through Mpoengs Border Post especially now when businesses are targeting to cash in on the festive season.

She attributed rampant smuggling to porous borders and a lack of adequate resources to conduct patrols.

“The challenge that we have is the size of the border line which stretches from Mayobodo up to Maitengwe Border Post, which makes it difficult to patrol due to lack of resources.

“There are no roads on our side of the border unlike in Botswana where they have the veterinary fence,” she said.

Supt Mangena said they rely on the good relationship they have  with locals who provide vital information.

“The Honda Fits are bought in Botswana and smuggled into the country as most of them are more than 10 years old so they cannot be imported according to regulations,” she said.

Supt Mangena said they conduct routine joint operations with their Botswana counterparts while traditional leaders have formed crime liaison committees to help curb criminal activities along the border.

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country surrounded by South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Namibia and Botswana.

The country’s porous border posts will soon be under tight surveillance following Government’s decision to acquire drones worth US$2 million to patrol the borders as part of measures to curb smuggling.

By A Correspondent- Thousands of home-seekers are expected to benefit from the Mwashuma Housing Project after property developers Highrange Property Developers obtained a certificate of compliance from Chegutu Rural District Council (RDC).

The certification signifies the project’s adherence to building and safety regulations.

The company has crafted a modern community, replete with well-maintained roads, stylish homes, state-of-the-art schools, and a host of other amenities.

In an interview on Friday last week, Highrange Property Developers chief executive Kuziva Zimunya expressed gratitude to the Chegutu RDC for its thorough inspection and recognition of the project’s adherence to standards

He emphasised the company’s commitment to delivering services that meet the needs and aspirations of the Mwashuma community.

“The certification is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, and we are proud of what we have accomplished.

“We are committed to providing high-quality, affordable housing solutions that make a positive impact on the communities we serve, and the Mwashuma project is a shining example of our commitment,” he said.

Zimunya said the company had a proven track record of success in developing and managing residential, commercial and industrial properties across the country.

“We value quality and strive to provide affordable housing schemes. We have launched some zero deposit schemes for groups and companies,” he said.

Site engineer Evans Mutaki said the Mwashuma Housing Project encompassed the construction of modern, well-designed houses, each carefully crafted to cater to the needs and aspirations of its occupants.

“Highrange Property Developers has planned and executed the development of essential infrastructure, laying the foundation for a thriving and sustainable community,” he said.

“A robust water reticulation system ensures that every household has access to clean and potable water, a fundamental necessityfor health and well-being. And a well-maintained sewage system safeguards the environment and promotes sanitation, fostering a healthy living environment.”

Tarred roads now connect the neighbourhood, providing easy access and enhancing mobility.

Among the projects done by Highrange Property Developers are Hogerty Hill, Borrowdale, Longlands of Shepherton in Marondera, Victoria Range in Masvingo. Highrange Property Developers was formed in 2020. NewsDay

By A Correspondent- A mentally challenged Kadoma man, who committed a series of murders before turning the sword against his father and setting the family home ablaze in June 2021, has been sent to Chikurubi Psychiatric Unit after the High Court adjudged himself mentally unstable.

Evan Chikoore was convicted after a full trial with his mother telling the court that he was mentally ill.

Justice Philda Muzofa, said it is the duty of the courts to protect people with mental challenges as they are always stigmatised.

“When they commit offences their woes multiply. Their lives become a sad tale that slowly pale into the dark soon to be forgotten,” said the judge as she delivered judgment.

The court heard that Chikoore was a well-known mental patient in the Kadoma community where he stayed with his family.

On July 9, 2021, he three people in separate incidents.

After committing the offence, he was arrested and the magistrate ordered that he be examined by two doctors in terms of section 26 of the Mental Health Act, and was found to be mentally challenged.

The court heard that Chikoore had not been well since 2004 as he would experience visual and auditory hallucinations.

His father took him for treatment at some church where a prophet assisted him. At this stage, he had stopped taking his prescribed medication.

The court heard his illness progressed and he became acutely psychotic.

According to the State, Chikoore resided in Luwana, Kadoma, with his wife.

On July 21, 2021, he visited his deceased father’s home in the same village where he demanded money to buy beer but his father indicated did not have cash on him.

In a fit of rage, he picked a stone and struck his father several times on the head before he set four thatched huts on fire.

Upon realising that his father was not yet dead, he took an axe and struck him several times.

He proceeded to the next homestead, where the now-deceased Tears Matara stayed.

On arrival, he asked where Matara’s husband was as he wanted his money from him.

He demanded money from Matara and was given $30.

He took that offer for an insult and struck her with the axe several times on the head and set ablaze a hut and a car parked at the homestead.

Chikore proceeded to the next homestead but the family fled, leaving behind a boy child.

Chikore axed the boy and killed him on the spot. Villagers then rushed to the scene and apprehended him as he approached the next homestead.

By A Correspondent- A total of 153 opposition party supporters need urgent relocation and safe housing following post-election persecution, the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum has reported.

In a statement to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights at the 77th Ordinary Session recently, the forum condemned the post-August 23-24 election violence saying: “These include abductions/enforced disappearances that lead to torture; malicious damage to property through arson, forced displacement of victims of arson; and the threats/intimidation/harassment in opposition political party strongholds, particularly of opposition political party election agents which have left victims in dire need of relocation out of justifiably fearing for their lives.”

The forum said by September 30, 2023, a total of 153 opposition party supporters, election agents and their families were in urgent need of relocation or safe housing.

The forum urged the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to exert pressure on the Zimbabwean government to immediately end the unprecedented levels of post-election victimisation in the country.

Calling for the setting up of an independent commission of enquiry into the post-election human rights violations, the forum added: “The government should also ratify and domesticate the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol.”

By A Correspondent- Harare City Council officials are attending a workshop in Nyanga at a time cholera has claimed several lives in the city and the Government has given the local authority a 7-day ultimatum to remove vendors from the central business district (CBD).

The workshop will cost US$24 000 funded by ratepayers. It will run between 27 and 29 November 2023.

According to the Town Clerk’s report to the Human Resources and General Purposes Committee, the workshop, dubbed the Zimbabwe Institute of Strategic Thinking Annual Conference will be held at Troutbeck in Nyanga from this Monday to Wednesday. Part of the report reads:

The following has been recommended to attend the workshop, His Worship the Mayor Cllr L Chitegu, Deputy Mayor Cllr R Muronda, Councilors Cllr C Mande, Cllr E Ruzani, Cllr RM Jakopo, Cllr T Machirori, Cllr F Chabuda and Cllr L Makuwerere, Town Clerk Eng H. A Chisango, Rtd Major M Marara, G Kusangaya, S Chimbetete, B Hlabanu, Drivers L Nyanga, P Mudzambara and Town Clerks Aide and all chairpersons.

The topics to be covered will be as follows, leveraging on indigenous capital base to drive social and economic transformation and possible pathways for a pragmatic approach by 2030.

The role of monetary policy and dynamics towards refined optional currency in Zimbabwe and Refining Zimbabwe’s economic recovery plan.

The travelling dates are as follows 26 and 30 November 2023.

Harare residents have criticised city fathers for spending thousands of dollars at a workshop in Nyanga instead of channelling the funds towards service provision given that there is a cholera state of emergency in the capital. Pindula

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) say they are on top of the game as preparations for the impending by-elections for the National Assembly and local authorities set for December 2 and 9 gather momentum.

A total of 266 150 ballot papers have been printed for the National Assembly by election which is expected to serve at least 248 347 voters with 99 150 ballot papers printed for the local authorities set for December 9.

For the local authority by-election set for December 2, a total of 2 850 ballot papers have been printed.

In an interview this morning, ZEC deputy chairperson Ambassador Rodney Kiwa said they have put everything in place to make sure the by-elections are held successfully.

“We are on top of the game with all the necessary apparatus to conduct the by-elections already in place. Ballot papers have been printed,’’ said Ambassador Kiwa.

The National Assembly by-elections will be held in Beitbridge West, Binga North, Bulawayo South, Cowdray Park, Lobengula-Magwegwe, Lupane East, Mabvuku-Tafara, Mpopoma-Mzilikazi and Nketa constituencies.

In Lobengula-Magwegwe, Zanu PF will be represented by Cde Menziwa Dube, while the CCC has split its support by fielding double candidates, Mr Eric Gono and Mr Tendai Chitura Nyathi. In Bulawayo South, Cde Raj Modi will represent Zanu PF, while CCC will be represented again by two candidates, Mr James Sithole and Ms Nicola Jane Watson.

In Cowdray Park constituency, Zanu PF will be represented by Cde Aurther Mujeyi, while CCC will be represented by double candidates, Mr Vusimuzi Chirwa and Mr Pashor Raphael Sibanda. In Mpopoma-Mzilikazi, Zanu PF candidate Cde Dzingai Kamamba faces twin CCC candidates Mr Desmond Makaza and Mr Charles Moyo, Mr Blessings Sibanda and independent candidate Mr Pardon Tapfumaneyi. In Nketa constituency, Zanu PF candidate Cde Albert Tawanda Mavunga will battle it out with Mr Luckmore Gwetu of DOP, and the typical twosome from CCC, Mr Obert Manduna and Mr Ambrose Sibindi.

For Mabvuku-Tafara constituency, businessman Cde Pedzai Sakupwanya of Zanu PF will battle it out with CCC candidate Mr Munyaradzi Febion Kufahakutizwi.

Zanu PF candidate Cde Chineke Muchimba will contest CCC candidates Mr Dubeko Prince Sibanda and Ms Judith Sibanda in Binga North.

In Lupane East constituency, Zanu PF candidate Cde Phathisiwe Machangu will battle it out with Mr Davis Nyathi and Mr Bright Vanya Moyo of CCC. Cde Thusani Ndou of Zanu-PF will contest in Beitbridge West with Mr Blessing Choeni and Mr Morgan Ncube of CCC, Mr Blessing Brendan Dube (Independent) and Ms Thoriso Moyo of Zapu.

The December 9 by elections were precipitated by the recall of 14 legislators, including six elected through proportional representation, as well as nine senators and 17 councillors.

Meanwhile, Parliament has announced the recall by CCC interim Secretary-general Mr Sengezo Tshabangu of another six National Assembly legislators and seven others elected through proportional representation.

The affected MPs are Mr Admore Chivero (Chegutu West), Mr Stephen Chatiza (Goromonzi West), Mr Gift Siziba (Pelandaba), Mr Tapfumaneyi Madzimbauto (Seke), Mr Oliver Mutasa (Zvimba East), Mr Amos Chibaya (Mkoba North), Ms Emma Muzondiwa (Midlands proportional representative), Mr Machirairwa Mugidho (Masvingo proportional representative), Ms Constance Chihota (Mashonaland East proportional representative), Ms Monica Mukwada (Manicaland proportional representative), Ms Sekai Muungani (Midlands proportional representative), Ms Linnet Mazingaidzo (Harare proportional representative) and Ms Daphane Gutsa (Mashonaland East proportional representative). The Herald

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga received treatment from a veterinary doctor at the instigation of his ex-wife Marry Mubaiwa while being admitted in South Africa, the court heard.

This was revealed by former Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Dr John Mangwiro who said Mubaiwa introduced one Dr Bruce Peck as the best in South Africa and would give the complainant treatment from time to time.

Dr Mangwiro told the court that Dr Willi Leo Seiling suspected something mysterious about Dr Peck when he saw him kissing with Mubaiwa.

He further submitted that he later learned that Dr Peck was a veterinary doctor after Mubaiwa introduced him as a family medical practitioner.

He said Mubaiwa often requested confidential time with Vice President Chiwenga.

The State seeks to summon Vice President Chiwenga to testify on December 7 for trial continuation.

During the last sitting, Dr Mangwiro told the court that each time Mubaiwa went inside the room in which the Vice President was admitted, he would be fit but when she left, he would be unconscious and obtunded.

Dr Mangwiro said the complainant’s health condition would start deteriorating each time he was brought back to his house.

“Each time we took the complainant out of the country for medication, he would come back home well but he would start deteriorating when he got home. I don’t know what was happening,” he said.

He said Mubaiwa was powerful that she would kick everyone out of the hospital room.

At one point the accused refused to take the complainant to hospital but instead opted to take him to a hotel saying she wanted to rest.

Mubaiwa is facing charges of attempting to kill VP Chiwenga by unplugging his life support system in a South African hospital. The Herald

By A Correspondent- Judgement in the case in which Pius Jamba Mukandi is accused of killing Citizens Coalition of Change (CCC) activist, Moreblessing Ali in cold blood in June last year has been set for December 4.

High Court judge Esther Muremba said she is still noting the judgment after the State closed its case last week.

Jamba is accused of murdering Ali before he decapitated her body and threw it in a well at his mother’s homestead in Beatrice in June 2022.

The body was later discovered in a decomposing state and is yet to be buried over a year later.

The suspect however denied the allegations during his trial in which seven witnesses testified against him.

His mother Lina Mukandi and his sister Mercy also testified against him.

While he insisted that on the day Ali was killed he had already planned a journey to his mother’s rural home, having already notified her, his mother denied telling the court that she was not aware of her son’s whereabouts.

Jamba also denied killing Ali saying he was sacrificed to ease political tension that pervaded Nyatsime area after the activist was killed.

He also said he was coerced to admit the crime and do indications.

Ali was last seen on May 24 2022 at a Night Club in Nyatsime where she allegedly had an altercation with Jamba.

It is alleged Ali and her friend Mayironi then left Chibhanguza Night Club and were about to head home.

Mayironi was behind Ali and she noticed her friend lying on the ground while Jamba dragged her.

She attempted to save her friend, leading to Mukandi striking her with a stone propelled by a catapult and hitting her chin leaving an open wound.

Kirina Mayironi fled back into the Nightclub where other revelers rushed out to investigate what was happening.

The suspect then positioned himself on the other side of Chibhanguza Night Club building which is still under construction.

“He pelted stones from the catapult and threw bricks directed at the night club so that nobody would manage to apprehend him or rescue the now-deceased,” prosecutors alleged.

“The accused took the now deceased from the vicinity of Chibhanguza Night Club to an unknown secluded place

“The accused person struck the deceased using an unknown instrument with the intention to cause her death, he strangled the now deceased using her trousers thereby causing her death.

“The accused then used an unknown instrument to cut the body of the now deceased into three pieces consisting of the upper torso and two legs,” said the State.

The court heard Mukandi then took the dismembered body parts to Plot 321 Dunnotar Farm, Beatrice belonging to his mother Laina Mukandi where he dumped them into a disused well.

Thereafter Jamba went on the run.

Ali’s body was discovered on 11 June 2022 by Mukandi’s mother after a strong stench emanated from the disused well.

Michael Mugabe and Terrence Mukuze are prosecuting.

Jamba is represented by his lawyer Garikai Mhishi. NewZimbabwe

Police have arrested a Chitungwiza man for allegedly mobilizing people to remove President Emmerson Mnangagwa from power.

In a statement on Monday, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) said Blessed Mhembere, 22, is being charged with subverting a constitutional government.

He is expected to be arraigned before the courts soon.

Mhembere is accused of moving around the bus terminus at Makoni Shopping Centre in Chitungwiza, shouting on top of his voice and calling Mnangagwa and Zanu PF from power.

“For allegedly doing so, Mhembere was apprehended and charged with subverting constitutional government as defined in section 22(2)(A) of Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act and with incitement to subvert a constitutional government as defined in section 187 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform Act),” the lawyers said.

Mhembere, who reportedly challenged people with guns to join him, is facing charges that are akin to treason and attracts a sentence up to 20 years in prison if one is convicted.

Mhembere is represented by Freddy Masarirevhu. NewsDay

Zimbabwe Defence Forces commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda will retire at the end of the year and pave way for a new security services chief in charge of the country’s military, an official source says.

“Sibanda will retire at the end of the year soon after turning 69,” a source said.

“After the recent political developments, he is going. The only question now is who will replace him?

“The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is hierarchically structured, with a three-star headquarters commanded by a lieutenant-general, who is the commander. The ZNA commander is deputised by three major-generals appointed chiefs-of staff. Together with the commander, they constitute the ZNA command element. The structure has five branches namely: general staff, training, administration, quartermaster and inspectorate. General, administration and quartermaster staff branches sponsor corps and directorates grouped according to their specialised roles.”

The source continued: “There are several suitable candidates to take over from him who are serving and retired lieutenant-generals. The obvious names that come to mind, for instance, are those of ZNA commander Lieutenant Anselem Sanyatwe or retired Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje.

Although these are Vice-President retired General Constantino Chiwenga’s close allies, they are well-positioned to take from Sibanda.

“The changes will therefore shake up the structure and end up touching several important positions in the army, including the Air Force. If Sanyatwe moves up to become ZDF commander, then ZNA Major-General Hlanganani Dube, Chief-of-Staff (Quartermaster Staff), may take over from Sanyatwe. Apart from Dube, there are others such as Major-General Kasirai Tazira and Major-General Emmanuel Matatu who are qualified for that job.

“However, Rugeje is being tipped to return even if Mnangagwa may not prefer that option. In doing all this, there is always the issue of balance between former Zanla and Zipra commanders at the top. At the moment former Zipra commanders are occupying top positions of ZDF commander (Sibanda) and Air Force of Zimbabwe Air Marshal Elson Moyo. Changes will take all that into account.”

The source said police might also see some changes, particularly with the likelihood of Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga being sent to Tanzania as ambassador, while being replaced by deputy commissioner-general Stephen Mutamba.

This follows Sibanda’s unconstitutional appointment into the ruling Zanu PF decision-making administrative organ, the politburo, as an ex officio member amid a series of constitutional violations which characterise Mnangagwa’s presidency.

Mnangagwa had appointed Sibanda into the politburo last month at the end of the Zanu PF annual conference in Gweru, but was pressured to reverse it after initial resistance.

“To fill the vacancy, I am appointing Cde Rose Mpofu of Matabeleland South province as a Politburo member and the new Secretary for People with Disabilities.

Additionally, ‘Cde Gwenzi’, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, as an ex-officio member of the Politburo,” Mnangagwa said.

The move was widely and swiftly criticised as unconstitutional and unlawful. Section 208 of the constitution provides for conduct of members of security services, specifically prohibiting acting in a partisan manner and furthering interests of any political party or cause.

Section 208 of the constitution on the conduct of members of security services, says: (1) Members of the security services must act in accordance with this constitution and the law; (2) Neither the security services nor any of their members may, in the exercise of their func a) act in a partisan manner; (b) further the interests of any political party or cause; (c) prejudice the lawful interests of any political party or cause; or (d) violate the fundamental rights or freedoms of any person. (3) Members of the security services must not be active members or office-bearers of any political party or organisation; and (4) Serving members of the security services must not be employed or engaged in civilian institutions except in periods of public emergency.

However, Mnangagwa insisted on it as brazenly illegal as it was amid a storm of protest.

“People are mistaken, they think that General Sibanda is a civil servant. He is not a civil servant; first point. Second point, he is an ex-officio member of the politburo which means that he is not a substantive member of the politburo, he cannot vote in the politburo. He is ex-officio. So, there is no problem, there is no contradiction. He is just a civil servant and I as the President can appoint anybody as an ex-officio member which means by virtue of a certain particular position you can be allowed to sit in our substantive body of the politburo. That’s how it is. I don’t know who gets offended by him sitting in the politburo. He cannot vote, but he can contribute.”

However, public pressure did not relent. Last week, Harare human rights lawyer Kudzi Kadzere wrote to Mnangagwa through Mbidzo,Muchadehama & Makoni Legal Practitioners, demanding reversal of Sibanda’s appointment within 10 days. NewsHawks

THE once formidable opposition MDC’s vast property empire is under threat as party leader Douglas Mwonzora bids to sell some of its prized assets to raise money to settle arrears, including utility bills, salaries and other operating costs, while also raising cash for himself, insiders say.

Sources said the party’s properties include its headquarters Harvest House, now known as Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House, in central Harare, residential stands, provincial offices and 25 safe houses bought and donated by well-wishers since the party’s formation in 1999.

Some of the properties such as provincial offices are registered under a company called Laphonic Investments formed during the late founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai’s leadership.

The company’s directors at inception included senior party officials, particularly Tendai Biti, Elton Mangoma and Theresa Makone.

The MDC was founded in September 1999 by Tsvangirai and his Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Union and professional colleagues such Gibson Sibanda, Isaac Matongo, Welshman Ncube, Tendai Biti, Gift Chimanikire, Fletcher Dulini Ncube, Tapiwa Mashakada, David Coltart, Thokozani Khupe, Tafadzwa Musekiwa, Job Sikhala, Learnmore Jongwe, Evelyn Masaiti, Esaph Mdlongwa, Morgen Komichi and Pauline Mpariwa.

The party split starting 2005 and several times after that, but the MDC-T faction led by Tsvangirai remained the main formation until his death in February 2018.

When Tsvangirai died, Nelson Chamisa took over amid a fierce succession battle with Khupe. After the 2018 elections, Mwonzorwa seized the MDC-T and the MDC-Alliance backed by Zanu PF and the courts. He was assisted by state agents to physically seize control of the party headquarters.

After his ascendancy to the helm of the party following a controversial court ruling, apparently with Zanu PF and state assistance, Mwonzora changed the directors to include himself, Mashakada and Julius Musevenzi.

Properties listed under Laphonic entail the MDC provincial offices for Harare in Highfield and other regional offices in Kwekwe, Bindura, Marondera, Chinhoyi, Gweru and Masvingo, sources said.

There is also a stand under the company in Harare’s Kopje area and two others in Mutare, they said.

Further, Mwonzora is now exerting pressure on party structures to sell some of the properties to raise funds for the party and himself.

His moves started in earnest in August during a party standing committee meeting in Harare as he sought a resolution to first sell properties occupied by the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) in Chinhoyi, Kwekwe and Bulawayo.

“Manoeuvres to sell party properties are underway. Mwonzora wants to sell the properties to settle bills and raise money for himself. He is saying if we sell the properties now at our greatest time of need, we will replace them when the time comes. His intention is to sell the properties at higher prices, pay bills and then buy cheaper ones so, while keeping some of the money in the process,” said a source.

MDC Bulawayo offices were at an advanced stage of being sold, but the deal fell through when the prospective buyer demanded title deeds, which Mwonzora did not have. Some of the people who donated properties to the party withheld the title deeds. The sources said Mwonzora also wants to sell off the MDC’s 25 safe houses which were used to provide refuge to party members and supporters whenever they were under threat from Zanu PF or the state.

“There is also the issue of the 25 safe houses which the party owns.

Mwonzora also wants to sell them. Currently he is keeping with him documents for the safe houses which he got from Toendepi Shonhe (former MDC director-general) who used to manage them during the Tsvangirai era.

Shonhe surrendered the papers to Mwonzora under a certain arrangement. As for the Harvest House, Mwonzora has put a price tag of US$3.5 million on it,” a source said.

Sources said Mwonzora’s motivation is to collect state funds that were due to the MDC before the recent elections and raise more money from sale of the properties.

The Political Parties (Finance) Act provides for the financing of political parties by the state; to prohibit foreign donations to parties and candidates. Mwonzora has collected millions that were disbursed to the MDC under the law.

He got US$45 000 just before the August elections.

The sources said Mwonzora also pocketed US$8 000 from an Indian firm that wanted to rent part of Harvest House.

The expectation was that the money would be used to pay outstanding salaries of workers, but sources said Mwonzora insisted that he wanted to use it to travel to the United Kingdom to attend the Labour Party’s congress held recently from 8-11 October.

“Mwonzora’s deals are dodgy and messy. There is now a stand-off with the Indians who want to rent some of the party’s space as a Chinese company was also given a lease to rent the same section of the building. Attempts to evict a tenant renting the former regalia shop selling groceries to pave way for the Indians has hit a brick wall. The Indians now want to go to court,” said the source.

Mwonzora’s spokesperson Llyod Damba said issues against his boss were unfounded. “For your own information, the President does not micro-manage every department and he is not the party treasurer.

Those are malicious rumours peddled by enemies of the party. Your question is administrative, so the best person to answer those stupid malicious stories of yours is Tapiwa Mashakada and the treasurer-general Brain Dube,” he said.

Mashakada was not reachable while Dube did not respond to questions sent to him. Chengetai Guta, the MDC director of information and publicity, said: “First, it was MDC workers have kicked out Mwonzora and taken over MRT House, then it was Zesa and police lock our headquarters for illegal connections and now this? There is no truth in all that. Those are frivolous and malicious allegations which cannot be sustained.”

Contacted for comment, Mwonzora said: “I am not interested in your rubbish. So unprofessional, so cheap. We are no longer talking to you and your publications. You are unprofessional and biased against the MDC. I have advised our officials never to have anything to do with you. If you continue defaming us we will have no option but to sue you.” NewsHawks

By- CCC rebel Sengezo Tshabangu has claimed that he had a dinner meeting last week with the CCC Vice President Tendai Biti at a local hotel.

However, Biti has dismissed these claims on social media that he had dinner with Tshabangu at Monomotapa Crowne Plaza in Harare.

Tshabangu is the public face behind the ongoing recall of CCC MPs, senators and councillors, though some commentators believe he is working with disgruntled CCC members.

According to an X account bearing Tshabangu’s name, Biti had dinner with the controversial activist soon after the latter’s recent interview on ZBC TV. 

Read the post:

Just after my interview on ZBC, I had dinner with one of our decorated Change Champions and learned man Hon Biti @Crown Plaza, as he’s a victim of dictatorship, we deliberated on pertinent issues that will add value to our Struggle for democracy, transparency and constitutionalism.

However, Biti told The NewsHawks that he hasn’t met Tshabangu in a long time and has not had a meal at Monomotapa Hotel in 20 years. Said Biti:

That’s false and malicious. I haven’t seen Tshabangu for a long time and haven’t eaten at Crowne Plaza for 20 years now!

Biti reiterated that he has nothing to do with the issue of recalls which have resulted in the expulsion of scores of CCC elected representatives in parliament and municipalities.

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | In an announcement, the Zambezi River Authority has disclosed a significant decrease in the water levels of the Kariba Dam. The authority’s statement on Monday revealed that the lake level has dwindled to 477.54m, reflecting a 14.16% usable storage, as of November 27, 2023. This is in stark contrast to the 476.10m level, with only 4.19% usable storage, recorded on the same date last year.

The Kariba Lake, a vital source for hydropower generation, is designed to operate within the range of 475.50m to 488.50m, incorporating a 0.70m freeboard. The current levels approaching the lower limit of this range raise concerns about the sustainability of hydropower production in the region.

This decline in water levels underscores the pressing need for heightened water management strategies and conservation efforts. Authorities are likely to closely monitor the situation, considering the potential impact on energy generation and the broader ecosystem. As the region grapples with changing environmental conditions, the Kariba Dam’s diminishing levels emphasize the delicate balance between energy needs and sustainable resource management.- ZimEye

By- Controversial CCC member calling himself the party’s interim secretary general, Sengezo Chabangu, has claimed that he had a dinner meeting last week with the CCC Vice President Tendai Biti at a local hotel.

However, Biti has dismissed these claims on social media that he had dinner with Tshabangu at Monomotapa Crowne Plaza in Harare.

Tshabangu is the public face behind the ongoing recall of CCC MPs, senators and councillors, though some commentators believe he is working with disgruntled CCC members.

According to an X account bearing Tshabangu’s name, Biti had dinner with the controversial activist soon after the latter’s recent interview on ZBC TV. 

Read the post:

Just after my interview on ZBC, I had dinner with one of our decorated Change Champions and learned man Hon Biti @Crown Plaza, as he’s a victim of dictatorship, we deliberated on pertinent issues that will add value to our Struggle for democracy, transparency and constitutionalism.

However, Biti told The NewsHawks that he hasn’t met Tshabangu in a long time and has not had a meal at Monomotapa Hotel in 20 years. Said Biti:

That’s false and malicious. I haven’t seen Tshabangu for a long time and haven’t eaten at Crowne Plaza for 20 years now!

Biti reiterated that he has nothing to do with the issue of recalls which have resulted in the expulsion of scores of CCC elected representatives in parliament and municipalities.

By- Police in Harare in Mbare Friday pounced on Seventy (70) performing rituals at the scene of a hit-and-run accident.

The police said the people were obstructing the free movement of traffic and people as they were performing the rituals.

In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said a man was killed in a fatal hit-and-run road traffic accident in Mbare on Wednesday.

Two days later, 70 mourners who were aboard two trucks and were en route to Granville Cemetery (Kumbudzi) disembarked at the scene of the accident and started to sing and dance resulting in their arrest by the police. ZRP said:

Police in Harare are investigating a fatal hit-and-run road traffic accident in which a male adult died after being hit by an unknown motorist at the intersection of Remembrance Drive and Ardbenie Road, Mbare on 22/11/23. The motorist did not stop after the accident.

Meanwhile, on 24/11/23 at around 1400 hours, 70 people were arrested for obstructing the free movement of traffic and people at the scene of the accident.

The suspects, who were aboard two lorries en route to Mbudzi Cemetery, had disembarked from the lorries before gathering at the centre of the intersection to allegedly perform rituals whilst singing and dancing.

In Zimbabwe, there is a cultural belief in avenging spirits, which is often referred to as “Ngozi”.

According to this belief, avenging spirits are the restless spirits of individuals who have died under tragic or unjust circumstances, such as murder or accidental death.

These spirits are believed to seek justice or revenge for their untimely demise.

The relatives of the deceased would perform some rituals at the accident or murder scene or at the grave to incite the spirit of the deceased to seek vengeance.

It is believed that the avenging spirit will haunt the murderer and his family or her family, bringing misfortune, illness, or even death until the wrong is acknowledged and resolved through traditional rituals and appeasement of the spirit.

By A Correspondent- Figures released by the Ministry of Health and Child Care showed that Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwean, registered 93 new suspected cholera cases on Saturday against a national tally of 129, overtaking the southeast province of Manicaland to become the most affected by the pandemic.

Thus far, Harare has recorded 2,997 suspected cholera cases, 227 confirmed cases and 13 deaths since the outbreak of the disease in February.

However, Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama said earlier on Thursday that the city had by then recorded 15 deaths.

The government has since ordered Harare City Council to remove illegal vendors from the streets as one of the ways to curb the spread of cholera.

Cholera, a water-borne disease caused by contaminated food or water, often spreads quickly throughout Zimbabwe because of its poor sanitation infrastructure and limited clean water.

As of Nov. 25, Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces had recorded 9,078 suspected cholera cases, 1,337 confirmed cases, 53 confirmed deaths and 156 suspected deaths, according to the official figures. NewZimbabwe

By A Correspondent- Radio personality and disability activist, Soneni Gwizi has taken to social media to share her experience urging parents to teach their children about people living with disability as they are ordinary people like everyone else.

Gwizi, an award winning motivational speaker broadcaster, influencer, and disability media facilitator who in 2018 became the Action on Disability and Development Ambassador for Africa posted on twitter:

Today I agree that I’m emotionally strong at the same time I felt embarrassed but I won’t let the darkness shadow my light

#ThisIsMyStory I was minding my own business going about doing my shopping. Everything was going fine until this happened. A 5/6 yrs child literally screamed & started pointing fingers at me as if “it” had seen a ghost or an alien.

Everyone in the shop started panicking wondering why the child was crying. I nearly lost my cool but I stood there in calmness- the child was screaming uncontrollable, the mom came & took the child away without even trying to explain to the child that I am a human being. The mother failed to handle the situation by acting the way she did.

Everyone in the shop was asking why the child was crying & the explanation left me hurting hearing hearing the was afraid of me. There was a lady who came to my rescue and we started talking about the whole encounter. I surely don’t look scary do I?

#MyConclusion

1. No human should experience that kind of embarrassment

2. Parents should teach their children about #PeopleWithDisabilities

3. Public places are for everyone

4. Be nice I encourage #PWDs not to allow negative encounters to stop them from living a purposeful life. Go out there and be You! Let your light shine so bright and scare all the demons

Stay safe! Stay Cool #PeopleWithDisabilities are ordinary people like you

THE National 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) was on Sunday launched amid calls for advocacy to mobilize more national budgets for investments in preventing violence against women and girls.

The launch in Hauna, Manicaland province sadly came as concerns of continued increased gender-based violence (GBV) in Zimbabwe grew over the years with several issues, including poverty and disease outbreak fueling it.

Edward Kallon, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Zimbabwe in a statement urged governments to allocate more resources to prevention services for gender-based violence to reduce the tremendous health, legal, and productivity costs that countries continue to bear due to the scourge.

“I am honoured to join you today for the national launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This year’s campaign carries the theme “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls,” urging governments and stakeholders worldwide to invest in preventing gender-based violence.

“Urgent financial support is necessary to tackle these issues, strengthening international cooperation, monitoring budget allocations, implementing gender-responsive budgeting, and providing resources to women’s rights organizations’ are crucial for lasting, transformative changes for women and girls.

Kallon highlighted that as the theme of the 16 days aptly emphasized, financing or investment was a critical element in achieving gender equality (SDG5) and the rest of the SDGs.

“A substantial increase in finance flows is necessary.

“This entails engaging international financial institutions, multilateral development banks, the private sector, remittances, philanthropic foundations, and other sources.

“By embracing an integrated approach, harnessing technology, and innovation, mobilizing financing, and strengthening collaboration and coordination, we can pave the way for gender equality,” said the UN Coordinator.

According to him, it was sad to note that violence against women and girls remained a widespread human rights violation despite the existence of laws to combat such violence, enforcement challenges and discriminatory social norms continue to persist.

“Startling statistics reveal that approximately one in three women and girls experience gender-based violence, inhibiting their potential and contribution to their countries’ development.

“It is time we acknowledge that any form of violence against women and girls is a stain on our humanity and hampers peace, security, and sustainable development. Let us unite to combat all forms of violence and address their underlying causes.

“In Zimbabwe, for instance, the 2019 Zimbabwe Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey reported that 39.4% of women aged 15-49 experience physical violence at least once in their lifetime, while 11.6% experience sexual violence while one in three women between the ages of 20-49 were reportedly married before they turned 18,” Kallon stated.

Kallon explained that the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, conflicts, and climate change had further exacerbated violence against women and girls, intensifying existing challenges and introducing new disheartening threats, urging support of women’s organisations.

“We must support them and also create an enabling environment for them to flourish.

“We must also be conscious when promulgating new laws, that we don’t inadvertently encumber the progress of grassroots women organisations and movements.,” said Kallon.

The UN commended government on its successful collaboration under the United Nations Spotlight Initiative to Eliminate Violence Against Women and Girls, which is funded by the European Union (EU).

The Spotlight Initiative has made significant investments in prevention efforts, reaching over two million people through campaigns, and directly engaging 50,000 individuals in five provinces through increased advocacy by gender champions and implementing partners.

“We especially applaud the High-Level Political Compact (HLPC) on Ending Gender-based Violence and Harmful Practices in Zimbabwe, signed by His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.

“This commitment demonstrates a bold dedication to sustained political commitment and engagement at the highest level in the fight against violence targeting women, girls, and harmful practices,” Kallon told stakeholders.”

He however warned that failure to curb GBV and inadequate support and empowering of women and girls led to a lack of development.

“Some countries estimate that gender-based violence incurs an economic impact of about 3.7% of GDP, yet investment in addressing this issue remains as low as 0.2% of overall aid in 2022. Such a significant cost cannot be ignored.”

“We currently face formidable challenges, with only about 15% of SDGs targets on track and significant gaps persisting in various areas.

“Policymakers must adopt an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnected nature of the SDGs. We need to navigate the synergies and trade-offs between different goals and take a holistic view of development.”

He committed the entire UN system in Zimbabwe to work with diverse stakeholders to support the Women and Gender Minister Monica Mutsvangwa in her effort to accelerate progress on gender equality at all levels and end violence against women and girls.

“The UN Country Team in Zimbabwe, along with our various entities coordinated by my office and technically led by UN Women, will focus on supporting the Government of Zimbabwe and your Ministry in four key actions: driving shifts in policy and regulatory frameworks, facilitating the development of bankable projects, attracting financing from various sources, and providing capacity.” NewZimbabwe

By A Correspondent- Umzingwane Rural District Council chief executive Ndumiso Mpofu was on Wednesday last week acquitted at the close of the State’s case where he was being charged with criminal abuse of office.

Mpofu (57) was arrested in 2021 by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) but he was freed after the court said there was no evidence linking him to the offence.

He was being represented by Dumisani Dube of Dube Legal Practice. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Gwanda magistrate Charity Maphosa dismissed the charges.

Mpofu was arrested in Esigodini sometime in 2021 and he initially appeared before then Esigodini magistrate Nomagugu Sibanda before the matter was transferred to Gwanda.

In a warned and cautioned statement signed on May 18, 2021, it was noted that Mpofu was informed by Zacc investigations officer Nyasha Muchenje that inquiries were being made in connection with a case ofabuse of office.

It was alleged that during the period stretching from 2017 to 2020, Mpofu unlawfully and intentionally flouted tender procedures when he handpicked six land developers namely Thy Strength Investments, Zotway Investments (PVT) Ltd, Wamafari Enclave (PVT) Ltd, Party Mhlanga, G&G Properties and Shashec Enterprises (PVT) Limited, which he allegedly unilaterally and corruptly contracted to construct two-roomed residential houses.

The houses belonged to Umzingwane RDC and were built at a cost of US$996 000 which is above the US$10 000 tendering threshold. Mpofu allegedly approved the contracts without going to tender and without authority of Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe contrary to and inconsistent with his duties as a public officer.

It was also alleged that Mpofu, on September 2, 2019 unlawfully sold State land designated for a community multi-sport centre to a company known as Trukumb Mining (PVT) Ltd for US$76 000 without going to tender or getting council approval.

The land in question measures 3,96 hectares and appears in the Department of Physical Site Plan as a proposed sports complex site, Habane referenced GA 364. NewsDay