By Paul Nyathi|Vice President of the Thokozani Khupe led MDC-T Obert Gutu claims that he is getting continuous death threats on his mobile phone.

The former MDC-T Chamisa spokesperson revealed in a sensational Facebook post on Thursday that he feels unsafe due to the threats coming through from South African mobile numbers.

Coincidentally and ironically, Gutu is the same who once threatened to kill on a woman based in South Africa via a cellphone sms.

This time he claims he has received threats from South Africa.

“Over the past few months, I have been receiving death threats on my mobile phone from several South African – registered mobile phone numbers,” Gutu said.

Gutu left the MDC-T led by Nelson Chamisa with former Deputy President Thokozani Khuphe after refusing to accept Chamisa as a legal leader of the party.

Meanwhile, Gutu also claims that there was a break in at his law chambers on Wednesday night which he believes to be politically motivated.

According to Gutu the burglars brutally attacked the security guard at the firm leaving him for dead before ransacking the building and leaving without taking anything.

“There was a break – in at Negona Chambers around midnight on Wednesday, May 2,2018. More than ten (10) burglars armed with iron bars broke into our premises and severely assaulted the security guard who was on duty,” he said.

“The guard suffered very serious head injuries and we evacuated him to a local hospital for emergency medical treatment.

“The thugs vandalised the outside alarm system sensors and they also broke the kitchen door using iron bars.The timeous arrival of two (2) Safeguard Security reaction teams saved our security guard’s life since he had been left for dead.

“The thugs ran away without stealing anything.”

By Talent Gondo|The Zimbabwe Rural Teachers Union (ZRTU) says it will not join the planned industrial action which has been declared by other teachers union bodies when schools open next week saying that the body’s membership have resolved to give dialogue and negotiations with their employer a chance.

Vice President of the ZRTU, Gibson Muhlangu said rural teachers will report for duty when schools open on May 9 pending the organisation’s meeting with government slated for May 11 2018.

“Rural teachers will report for duty when schools open and we are not going to join the industrial strike,” said Muhlangu.

He said the outcome of the May 11 meeting would however determine whether rural teachers will join the strike or not.

“Teachers have gone for half a decade without a salary increase and it is a known fact that inflation has eroded the current salaries that they are getting,” he said.

Muhlangu however said one of the reasons why rural teachers were not joining the planned industrial action was to give dialogue a chance following the April 20 meeting with their employer whose outcome will be communicated two days after schools open.

“We are meeting the employer on May 11 and this is only two days after schools open.

“We are therefore reporting for duty because our course of action will be determined by what is going to be communicated to us when we meet government at our scheduled meeting,” he said.

Muhlangu said rural teachers were unhappy with their salaries, rural allowances and the issue of leave days hence they had tabled their demands to government last month.

“We will give government the benefit of doubt thereafter we will map the way forward and know whether we will down our tools or not.

“Whatever they tell us will be the point of departure for our actions,” he said.

The statement by the body which represents some of the rural teachers comes amid declarations by most of the teachers’ union bodies including the Federation of Zimbabwe Educators Union (FOZEU), the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), Zimbabwe Teachers’ Union (ZIMTA), Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union (ARTU), Zimbabwe National Teachers’ Union (ZINATU), Zimbabwe Democratic Teachers Union (ZDTU) and Professional Educators’ Union of Zimbabwe (PEUZ) indicating that teachers will embark on a nationwide strike when schools open next week.

By Talent Gondo|The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned of a possible influx of Mozambican refugees in Zimbabwe following indications that there are already over 6 000 refugees camped at the buffer zone between the two countries waiting to be relocated to Tongogara Camp in Chipinge.

The WFP reports that the number of refugees who have entered Zimbabwe increased in 2017 due to violent clashes between the Mozambican government forces and Renamo.

Reports also indicate that there is renewed insecurity in the Kasai Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a development which could also increase the number of refugees in the country.

WFP Country Director, Eddie Rowe revealed that the country could experience serious health challenges due to the influx of refugees adding that there is need to ensure targeted interventions to redress this challenge.

Rowe said this while responding to questions during an event to mark one year of progress under the WFP Zimbabwe’s five-year strategic plan in Harare (Monday).

“If nothing is done, the situation could lead to serious health problems ranging from malnutrition due to food shortages and water and sanitation-related diseases,” he said.

“Tongogara refugee camp may not be able to handle the increased number of refugees,” he said.

By Talent Gondo|Only 22 female legislators have made it in Zanu Pf primary elections to represent their party in the forthcoming 2018 harmonised polls.

The polls, marred by violence, intimidation, allegations of ballot stuffing and rigging saw some of the provinces such as Mashonaland Central failing to elect even a single woman to contest for the position of member of parliament in the next elections.

In Harare and Bulawayo metropolitan provinces, Betty Kaseke and Maidei Mpala are the only two that made it, according to a list released by the party glimpsed by ZimEye.

Some of the few women that made it are Nokutula Matsikenyere who is going to contest for the Manicaland seat, Nancy Saungwe for Mutare Central, Siphiwe Mupfungaidze for Marondera West, Irene Sekai Nzenza representing Chikomba East, Mhangura’s Precious Masango.

Mary Mliswa is set to contest Hurungwe West, Berita Chikwama for Gutu East, Stembiso Nyoni for Nkayi North, Stembile Gumbo for Lupane East, Mwenezi West will be contested by Priscilla Moyo, Chirumanzu contested by Babra Rwodzi, Chido Sanyatwe for Nyanga North, Mabel Chinomona for Mutoko North, Yeukai Simbanegavi for Gutu North, Ntokozisi Manoki Mpofu for Silobela and Ruth Manungo Mabhoyi will contest Beitbridge West.

Below is the full list of the candidates that made it in the Zanu Pf primary elections.

By Paul Nyathi|The Minister Of Health and Child Care Dr David Parirenyatwa says that smoking of mbanje remains illegal besides the new government regulations on the production of the weed.

In a statement on Wednesday, Parirenyatwa said that the thrust for legalising its production is specifically for medicinal and industrial purposes and not recreational smoking of the drug.

“Possession of cannabis other than for medicinal or scientific purposes is therefore still illegal in Zimbabwe. For emphasis, licencing is imperative for medicinal or industrial cannabis use,” said Dr Parirenyatwa.

He said those licensed to produce cannabis will be doing so under very strict regulations.

These include operating under cameras to ensure that they do not abuse their trust by using the drug for any other purposes other than those stipulated in the law.

In Zimbabwe manje controlled under the Dangerous Drugs Act (Chapter 15:02) and the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23) and is treated as a prohibited drug for recreational purposes.

Dr Parirenyatwa said the gazetting of Statutory Instrument 62 of 2018 on production of Cannabis for medicinal and scientific use outline the requirements for one to be licensed.

It also specifies the conditions to be fulfilled for one to grow cannabis, process and export the plant and its products.

He said the type of cannabis that Government was promoting is called sativa sativa, which has enormous benefits both industrial and medicinal but less narcotic.

Dr Parirenyatwa said Government values contributions from all its stakeholders and will continue consulting on the issue as the industry grows.

“Government will use a multi-sectoral approach to coordinate and regulate this industry as it develops.

This will include health, industry, agriculture, home affairs, customs, academia and the private sector, among others.

“These regulations do not therefore mean that this is a free for all in growing and processing hemp. You have to be licensed,” he said.

Asked on the rationale behind the $50 000 licensing fee for one to grow hemp, Dr Parirenyatwa said Government considered the potential of income revenue to be generated in the industry.

By Paul Nyathi|President Mnangagwa has outrightly declined deploying police officers to help in the running of the just ended ZANU PF Primary Elections.

In a statement issued by his information offices, Mnangagwa described the use of police officers and other security agencies in the management of ZANU PF primary elections by some aspiring candidates as criminal ordering the practice to stop forthwith.

Mnangagwa said the conflation of party and State institutions had no room in the new dispensation.

In the statement released by the acting secretary in the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Mr Regis Chikowore, President Mnangagwa said law enforcement agencies should be deployed only to maintain law and order.

Mnangagwa’s disclaimer follows media reports that some aspiring candidates enlisted the services of the police and CIO in a bid to win in the primary elections.

“There is a story in one of our local dailies alleging that ZANU PF abused police officers and other security agencies during its primaries over the weekend either as polling officers or running other party chores,” President Mnangagwa said.

“The story creates the wrong impression that the alleged abuses were sanctioned by His Excellency the President, in violation of the country’s Constitution and against his own pledge that State institutions would not be partisan, thereby undermining their constitutional roles as impartial arbiters in the electoral process.

“The story also suggests that it is the official policy of zanu-pf to enlist the involvement of security arms in party chores and processes. The President in his capacity as both leader of a political party and Head of Government wishes to make it abundantly clear to all and sundry that it is neither the policy of zanu-pf nor the direction of Government, through him, to deploy the police force or any arm of the security establishment in helping with any party function, least of all as presiding or returning officers in party primary elections.

“Any such instances, which might have occurred in the just-ended party primary elections would amount to a breach of zanu-pf policy and certainly a flagrant violation of the laws of the land which must be roundly condemned and stopped forthwith.”

President Mnangagwa said any party officials or officers of the security establishment caught abusing arms and personnel of security would be dealt with “severely”.

“Let it be known that conflation of party and State institutions as might have happened in the past will not be allowed under the new dispensation where the electoral playing field must be seen to be fair and even,” he said.

“Having said this, it must be acknowledged and accepted that our law enforcement agencies should and will be deployed to ensure law, order and the preservation of peace wherever people gather, including for political purposes.

“Government relies on all those in political leadership to send this clear message to their parties and their membership.”

By Paul Nyathi|Heavy violence erupted at the ZANU PF Chegutu West primary elections on Monday resulting in sitting Member of Parliament for the constituency Dexter Nduna firing live ammunition into the air causing a major mayhem.

Nduna was subsequently arrested on Tuesday on charges of public violence and discharging a firearm in a public place.

Trouble started at Chenengundu Primary School polling station when ZANU PF supporters backing Nduna clashed with rival supporters disrupting voting which led to Nduna firing five shots into the air in a bid to bring order.

Voting was suspended until the feuding parties agreed to resume voting on Tuesday with Nduna eventually winning the election.

Nduna appeared before Chegutu magistrate Mr Felix Chauromwe on Wednesday for initial remand.

He was remanded in custody and is expected back in court on Thursday for bail hearing.

He is jointly charged with Munyaradzi Simango (30) and Takemore Maphosa (18) on public violence charges. The two were also remanded in custody pending bail hearing.

The state, led by Mr Vote Zishiri, is expected to respond to their bail applications on Thursday.

Simango collapsed in court due to injuries he sustained in the clashes. He had to be treated under the watchful eye of prison guards.

A story in one of our local dailies alleges that Zanu PF abused police officers and other security agencies during its primaries over the weekend either as polling officers or running other errands Party chores. The story creates the wrong impression that the alleged abuses were sanctioned by His Excellency the President, Cde E.D Mnangagwa, in flagrant violation of the country’s Constitution and against his own pledge that state institutions would not be partisan, thereby undermining their constitutional roles as impartial arbiters in the electoral process. The story also suggests that it is the official policy of Zanu PF to enlist the involvement of security arms in Party chores and processes.

The President in his capacity as both leader of a political party and Head of Government wishes to make it abundantly clear to all and sundry that it is neither the policy of Zanu PF nor the direction of Government, through him, to deploy the police force or any arm of the security establishment in helping with any party function, list of all as presiding or returning officers in Party primary elections. Any such instances, which might have occurred in the just ended party primary election would amount to a breach of ZANU PF policy and certainly a flagrant violation of the laws of the land which must be roundly condemned and stopped forthwith. Any officials of the Party or officers of the security establishment caught abusing arms and personnel of security as alleged in the story will be dealt with severely.

Let it be known that any conflation of Party and State institutions as might have happened in the past will not be allowed under the new dispensation where the electoral playing field must be seen to be fair and even. Having said this, it must be acknowledged and accepted that our law enforcement agencies should and will be deployed to ensure law, order and the preservation of the peace wherever people gather, including for political purposes. Government relies on all those in political leadership to send this clear message to their parties and their membership. The President reiterates his pledge to ensure a plebiscite which is free, fair and an uncontested expression of the will of the people of Zimbabwe. To that end, Government has invited all manner of observers to bear witness to the fulfillment of this pledge.

Regis Chikowore

Acting Secretary for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services

ZANU PF leader, President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday said the use of police officers and other security agencies in the management of Zanu-PF primary elections by some of the party’s aspiring candidates is illegal.

Mnangagwa’s position was stated by one his male office staff members who said,

“a story in one of our local dailies alleges that Zanu-PF abused police officers and other security agencies during its primaries over the weekend either as polling officers or running other party chores,” President Mnangagwa said.

“The story creates the wrong impression that the alleged abuses were sanctioned by His Excellency the President, Cde E.D Mnangagwa in flagrant violation of the country’s constitution and against his own pledge that State institutions would not be partisan, thereby undermining their constitutional roles as impartial arbiters in the electoral process. The story also suggests that it is the official policy of Zanu-PF to enlist the involvement of security arms in party chores and processes. The President in his capacity as both leader of a political party and Head of Government wishes to make it abundantly clear to all and sundry that it is neither the policy of Zanu-PF nor the direction of Government, through him, to deploy the police force or any arm of the security establishment in helping with any party function, least of all as presiding or returning officers in party primary elections. Any such instances, which might have occurred in the just ended party primary elections would amount to a breach of Zanu-PF policy and certainly a flagrant violation of the laws of the land which must be roundly condemned and stopped forthwith,”

President Mnangagwa said any party officials or officers of the security establishment caught abusing arms and personnel of security would be dealt with “severely”.
“Let it be known that conflation of party and State institutions as might have happened in the past will not be allowed under the new dispensation where the electoral playing field must be seen to be fair and even,” he said.

“Having said this, it must be acknowledged and accepted that our law enforcement agencies should and will be deployed to ensure law, order and the preservation of peace wherever people gather, including for political purposes. Government relies on all those in political leadership to send this clear message to their parties and their membership. The President reiterates his pledge to ensure a plebiscite which is free, fair and an uncontested expression of the will of the people of Zimbabwe. To that end, Government has invited all manner of observers to bear witness to the fulfilment of this pledge.” – state media

A male nurse stationed at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) who was accused of fondling a 19-year-old female patient’s breasts and buttocks after she allegedly spurned his proposal, was yesterday acquitted.

Tayedza Kangara (38) of Tshabalala suburb was facing charges of indecent assault when he appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Mr Sheunesu Matova. In acquitting Kangara, the magistrate ruled that there was no sufficient evidence linking the accused person to the alleged offence.

“I am convinced that the evidence adduced by the State through its witness falls below the threshold of proof beyond reasonable doubt as, apart from the complainant’s word against the accused, there was no evidence to substantiate the State case,” said Mr Matova.

He said the complainant also gave different versions of her encounter with the accused person to the hospital ward’s sister-in-charge.

“The explanation by the accused person that he did not indecently assault the complainant is reasonably true in the circumstances. Accordingly, I will therefore return a verdict of not guilty and the accused person is acquitted,” ruled Mr Matova.

Prosecuting, Mr Charles Danda had alleged that on March 5 this year shortly after midnight, the complainant was in her bed at Pettigrew Ward at the UBH where she was admitted.
The court heard that Kangara spotted the complainant from a distance and went to her bed while other nurses were busy in the duty room.

Mr Danda said Kangara proposed love to the bedridden patient and she turned him down.
“The accused person then pleaded with the complainant that he wanted to see her privately at a secluded place for a few minutes, but she refused. Kangara insisted on seeing the complainant and feeling insecure and sensing danger, the patient decided to record the conversation using her mobile phone,” said the prosecutor.

Kangara then told the complainant that he was going to give her a sign so that she would come to where he was.

The court heard that the complainant alerted one of the nurses that Kangara was proposing love to her.

“The accused then called the complainant and she kicked a metal trolley to alert other nurses but they did not follow her,” said Mr Danda.

When the complainant joined Kangara at the agreed place, the accused allegedly hugged the teenager and started fondling her breasts and buttocks.

The complainant narrated her ordeal to the sister-in-charge who in turn reported the matter to the police leading to Kangara’s arrest. – state media

A 63-YEAR-OLD Gokwe man allegedly raped his six-year-old granddaughter at knife point on two consecutive nights while her mother was sleeping in the same room.
He allegedly threatened to kill the minor if she told anyone about the sex attack.

The man, whose name cannot be disclosed to protect the minor, appeared before Gokwe Magistrate Mr Christopher Maturure facing rape charges.

He was remanded in custody to today for trial after he pleaded not guilty. The State led by Mr Tinei Tirigo alleges that at an unknown date but earlier this year, the man sneaked into the bedroom hut where the juvenile was sleeping with her mother.

The old man allegedly proceed to where the girl was sleeping and threatened to stab her to death with a knife that he was holding, if she screamed.

The court heard he forced himself on the girl while her mother was fast asleep on the other side of the room.
After the incident, the man threatened to kill the girl if she disclosed the act to anyone.
The following morning, the girl told her aunt who advised her to conceal the rape.

The following night, the old man used the same modus operandi to rape the girl and threatened to kill her if she dared disclose the matter.

The following morning, seeing that her aunt took no action, she reported the matter to a neighbour.

The villager told the Village Head who in turn reported the matter to Nembudziya Police Station leading to the man’s arrest. – state media

By Talent Gondo| Norton’s Independent Member of Parliament, Temba Mliswa has hailed the Zimbabwe Republic Police for a job well done in executing their duty and apprehending armed robbers suspected to be child kidnappers residing in his constituency.

Mliswa said the vigilence of the police was exemplary and they did a good job which should be commended.

“The vigilance of the police is exemplary, thank you for a job well done,” said Mliswa in a tweet below.

I wish to commend Norton Police for apprehending the armed robbers. Details surrounding the children that were found with the robbers are still being investigated but the vigilance of the police is exemplary, thank you and well done for a good job

— Sabhuku Temba P. Mliswa (@TembaMliswa) May 2, 2018

Mliswa’s appreciation of the ZRP comes after police yesterday apprehended armed robbers suspected to be child kidnappers in Norton.

The robbers were reportedly arrested and about 7 children aged between 4 and 11 were discovered.

Efforts to get a comment from the ZRP were futile.

By Paul Nyathi|The 2018 election mood is definitely heating up.

Preaident Emmerson Mnangagwa has set the Presidential campaign ball rolling by unveiling the biggest campaign poster in the history of Zimbabwe in the Harare City Centre.

Mnangagwa is likely to square up with over 120 other presidential hopefuls though his biggest rival will be the MDC Alliance candidate Nelson Chamisa.

By Paul Nyathi|National Spokesperson for the Luciah Matibenga led People’s Democratic Party splinter, a member of the Joice Mujuru led People’s Rainbow Coalition has quit the party.

George Mkhwanazi advised party Secretary General Gorden Moyo through an e-mail on Tuesday that he was quitting the party with immediate effect.

Mkhwanazi said that he was quitting the party because of varied differences he is having with the party that effectively affect his operations as the publicity officer of the party.

Mkhwanazi is the second information officer in as many days within the People’s Rainbow Coalition to quit following the resignation of Methuseli Moyo the NPP deputy national spokesperson.

By Paul Nyathi|The Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association has officially communicated that its members will be involved in a collective industrial action from the 8th of May.

The ZIMTA Secretary General Nganunu Sibanda advised the member teachers in a letter dated the 1st of May that they must withdraw services beginning Tuesday 8th of May on schools opening day.

“This letter serves to inform educators and education administrators in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the strike action beginning Tuesday 8th May 2018,” read the letter.

The teachers’ grievances are over allowances that government last paid them before the dollarisation era and the low salaries.

Further to that, the teachers are up in arms with government’s 2016 decision to block all leave.

Government has meantime warned that it will dismiss all teachers who will engage in the industrial action.

Last month, the government dismissed about 20 000 nurses who engaged in a strike action for an increase in their salaries and review of working conditions.

The teachers’ union assured its members that it will provide legal protection to any of its members who will be victimised during the industrial action.

By Own Correspondent| The state broadcaster, ZBC was this morning criticised for flooding it’s FB media space with the below campaign banner pictures which are for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s candidacy. This development is coming at a time when many citizens are struggling under a failing economy.

Some of the comments from the povo were –  “Uku ndokunonzi kupererwa. Zera remwana wacho wavarikurwa naye so, unonyatsoona kuti ndokupenga chaiko ko sei vasingagute. They destroy lives of generations and generations this people, but havanatsitsi.” – Munyaradzi Taderera: 

But I love what you’re doing ZBC to continue posting Zanu PF staff whilst you know kuti vanhu vanoivenga. The more you post ndiko. kuvengwa kwayo – Noah Mariga

By Talent Gondo| Former War Veterans Minister Colonel (retired) Tshinga Dube has called on the MDC-T leader, Nelson Chamisa to join President Emmerson Mnangagwa and work towards rebuilding the country’s economy.

Dube, hinted on the possibiliry of a Government of National Unity (GNU) adding that the two leaders should divert their energies on growing the economy instead of politics.

In a report published  by the Daily News, Dube castigated Zimbabweans for focusing on politics at the expense of the economy which is key towards improving citizens’ lives.

“It is also my wish that we engage with the dynamic young man, the president of the MDC — Nelson Chamisa — to come on board so that we unite our people and make sure that instead of channelling our energy into politics, we also concentrate on our economy,” said Dube.

“If . . . Mnangagwa continues with his policies and gets a good someone to assist him, this country in 10 years will not be a third world country but a first world country.

Instead of focusing on politics, we need to be focusing on improving our health delivery system, our education and our welfare among others.”

Dube urged Zimbabweans to give Mnangagwa a chance to rule the country for the next five years in order for him to create jobs for the people of Zimbabwe.

By Paul Nyathi|Under fire Minister of Health and Child Care Dr David Parirenyatwa has joined the growing list of ZANU PF heavyweights falling by the wayside in the primary elections of members to represent the ruling party in the upcoming national elections.

Reports indicate that Parirenyatwa lost the Murehwa North primary election which will mean that he is going to lose his ministerial position he has held on to for two decades if ZANU PF wins the elections set for July or August this year.

Parirenyatwa has been under fire with calls for him to resign coming through from varied sectors in the country following the drastic fall in the health delivery system in the country.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said he will work to protect workers.

In his May Day address, Mnangagwa said, “Workers’ Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to the Zimbabwean workers – the backbone of our economy. We honour their work and our nation is far richer because of them.

“When I say that Zimbabwe is open for business it is to create more jobs, more opportunity and to provide our people with the greatest possible chance of success.”

He then spoke  on the Labour bill. ”

Government is developing a raft of labour law reforms as part of our commitment to creating a safe and enabling environment for workers.

Today, we salute our workers, but every day we must promote, assist and protect them, and continue to create more jobs and more opportunities for all Zimbabweans.”

A 27-YEAR-OLD man from Bulawayo has been arrested for allegedly raping his ex-wife after he had promised her some ZITF tickets.
The man, who cannot be named to protect the woman, allegedly raped the woman last Friday at his home in Mpopoma suburb. A court heard that the woman managed to escape and ran home wearing a petticoat.

The matter was reported to the police who recovered the woman’s clothes from the man’s house. The man was not asked to plead to rape when he appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Mr Lungile Ncube on Monday.

He was remanded in custody to May 14 for provision of a trial date. Mr Ncube advised the man to apply for bail at the High Court.

Prosecuting, Mrs Memory Ndlovu said on Friday, the accused lured his ex-wife to his place of residence saying he had some trade fair tickets that he got from his uncle.

“At the man’s home the accused suddenly pulled the woman’s blouse and dragged her into his bedroom.

“The accused forcibly had unprotected sexual intercourse with the woman. The complainant screamed but no one could hear her as the radio was turned on high volume.”

The court heard that the woman managed to escape and she ran out of the house.-state media

A POLICE officer from Bulawayo was allegedly recruited by a housebreaker that he had arrested and later became the mastermind of a gang of four that broke into seven houses where they stole property in Nkulumane suburb.
Desire Duvai (32), who is a police officer at Nkulumane Police Station, allegedly arrested Wisdom Musundire (19) who bribed him with $100 and a Samsung Galaxy phone.
A court heard that Desire on being told there was easy money in breaking, entering and stealing from premises, recruited his younger brother Danford Duvai (26) to join Musundire and Takura Mugomo (27) in stealing from residents.

The quartet allegedly went on a house breaking spree from February, which was halted following their arrest last week.

They were not asked to plead when they appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Mr Lungile Ncube on Monday facing seven counts of theft and unlawful entry with Desire facing an extra count of criminal abuse of power.

The magistrate remanded each of them out of custody to May 15 on $50 bail.
He ordered the suspects to report to Western Commonage Police Station everyday.
The court heard how Desire allegedly solicited $100 and a Samsung galaxy phone from Musundire after he had caught him stealing and the two started working together to commit many crimes.
The four allegedly stole five car batteries, a laptop and a mattress.

The State, which was represented by Mr Dan Ndebele in the initial bail hearing, had opposed Desire and Musundire’s bail applications but had not opposed Danford and Mugomo’s applications.

“Desire is not only accused one in this matter but he is a police officer at Nkulumane Police Station. It is worth noting that he appears in all four records, the totality of that is that he is the mastermind, principal and brains behind these cases,” said Mr Ndebele when the matter came for initial bail hearing.

“He abandoned his mandate as a police officer and became a criminal. Desire’s relationship with Wisdom who was wanted by police for a long time shows that Desire fed him information on how to evade the police. This made it difficult for police to arrest Wisdom. Also some of the stolen property was found at Desire’s house after he was implicated by Wisdom. At the police station, Desire is a danger and outside he is a criminal; the only place for him is jail until the matter is finalised.”

Desire was represented by Mrs Sharon Padera of Pundu and Company Legal Practitioners.
Mrs Padera disagreed with Mr Ndebele saying the reasons given by the State were not compelling enough to deny her client bail.

“Accused persons must be admitted to bail unless if there are compelling reasons such as likeliness to abscond, likeliness to commit crime and interference with witnesses and the State did not mention these,” she said.

Prosecuting Mrs Ndlovu said on an unknown date in December last year, Desire Duvai unlawfully misused his power as a police officer to solicit a bribe in the form of a Samsung Galaxy cell phone and $100 from Wisdom Musundire in order not to arrest him for a charge of unlawful entry and theft.

“Since February this year, Desire, his brother Danford, their new accomplice Musundire and Mugomo stole five car batteries. Also on February 25, Desire and Musundire broke into a house in Nkulumane and stole a Lenovo laptop and a mattress.

“On February 28, the mattress was recovered outside the complainant’s house. On April 14, police acting on information received arrested Musundire who after interviews implicated Desire as his accomplice. – state media

ZANU-PF heavyweights in Manicaland Province reportedly failed to make it during the primary elections, with Politburo member and Minister of State in the President’s Office responsible for Scholarships Christopher Mushohwe making the list of losers.

Polling in Manicaland ended on Monday in most constituencies, with results having been sent to the provincial office for further scrutiny.

Some losing candidates are said to have lodged complaints with the provincial office regarding the manner in which the primary elections were held citing a raft of irregularities.

Manicaland provincial elections commissioner Ambassador Zenzo Nsimbi said they were preparing to send the results to the Zanu-PF national political commissar, Retired Major General Engelbert Rugeje.

“All the results will be handed over to national political commissar, Rugeje, who will announce them. I am sure he will be holding a press conference where he will announce the results,” he said.

Unconfirmed reports said Mushohwe lost to Percy Muchimwe, who is a member of the Johanne Marange Apostolic sect.

Former Minister of Women Affairs Nyasha Chikwinya is said to have lost to Jefrey Ngome in Mutare South, while Irene Zindi lost to Misheck Mugadza in Mutasa South.

Zindi was quick to vent her anger at the manner in which elections were held in her constituency through her Facebook post.

“Yes, ZANU-PF primary elections have come and gone, but marred with so much irregularities. For example, the ward leadership was coaxed to make sure that cell registers contained members of a particular contesting candidate favoured by the local political gurus and supporters of other candidates not favoured to win the primary elections were turned away because their names did not appear on cell registers.” – state media

By Paul Nyathi| It has finally somewhat emerged at the just ended ZANU PF Primary Elections why the party was recording serial numbers of voter registration slips from members at cell level.

Only those who submitted their voter registration slips were captured in the party voters roll for the primary elections.

Thousands of potential voters were turned away from voting at the primary elections as their names were not on the voters roll because they did not submit their voter registration slips to cell leaders.

Party supporters in Bulawayo who spoke to ZimEye.com said that they were turned away in numbers because they had not submitted their voter registration slips to the party authorities.

The members who spoke to ZimEye said that they feel robbed by named party officials who discouraged them from submitting the registration slips when they knew that they were benefiting their candidates.

“We did not cast our votes because we adhered to calls by some clever people within the party who accelerated the call not to submit the slips when they knew very well that it was in favour of their candidates,” said Clifford Moyo from Luveve Constituency.

“People who coordinated Garikai Zonde’s (winning castigate in Luveve) campaign spent sleepless nights collecting and recording the registration slips well knowing that they were rigging the voters roll and didn’t give us that information,” said the angry ZANU PF member.

Moyo further indicated that the entire elections were the worst the party ever held.

“Mugabe (Former President Robert) was far much better than what we saw in this election,” he said. “Even if he was rigging elections, his rigging was smart we would realise it years later unlike this one which was very obvious that a grade 1 child could also see. The whole election process was a big joke, these candidates will lose to the position dismally because they are not the people’s choice,” he added.

Complaints on the chaotic election are being raised by the ZANU PF members throughout the country where, however, seemingly rival G40 members emerged victorious over President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Lacoste faction members.

Mnangagwa praised the election process and declared it free and fair claiming that the hiccups experienced in the process were mere teething problems in the introduction of a “new voting system.”

The party’s election commission is yet to announce the final authenticated results from the elections forty eight hours after the scheduled election period.

By Own Correspondent| A student 2.1 at Chinhoyi University of Technology by the name Michael Ndemera has been found dead in a suspected suicide incident. Close sources who spoke to ZimEye.com have reported on several theories which ZimEye cannot publish until an independent investigation has been completed.

This semester there have been several deaths at Chinhoyi University. – THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY.

By Paul Nyathi|Besides the tragic death of a Highlanders fan last week after falling off from the terraces at Barbourfields Stadium, everyone would have expected that to be a lesson to other fans.

The tragedy, however, appears not to have been deterrent to the Highlanders fans who on Tuesday packed Barbourfields Stadium with some still returning to the dangerous sitting points on the terraces.

An off duty soldier died from a fall on the terraces when he lost his grip while celebrating a Highlanders goal.

ZimEye.com on Tuesday captured Highlanders fans return to the same deadly points on the terraces with police and club officials doing nothing about it.

Several Zanu PF bigwigs and sitting legislators have fallen by the wayside, preliminary results of the party’s primary elections show.

Ministers; Dr Christopher Mushohwe, Dr Mike Bimha and Abednico Ncube lead the pack of big guns who lost the primary elections.

In Manicaland Province, Minister Mushohwe lost the Mutare West National Assembly seat to Teedzerai Muchimwe, while other results on the ground indicate that Misheck Mugadza has taken over the baton from Irene Zindi in Mutasa South, while Misheck Mataranyika won the popular vote in Makoni South.

In Makoni Central, Finance and Economic Development Minister, Patrick Chinamasa shrugged off challenges to return his seat.

In Mashonaland West Province, Precious Chinhamo Masango beat former Lands Minister Douglas Mombeshora for the Mhangura seat.

In Mashonaland East Province, Minister Bimha tops the list of incumbent legislators to have fallen by the wayside after losing Cde John Mangwiro by over 3000 votes in Chikomba Central.

Out of the 18 constituencies whose results have been released, only six National Assembly members have been retained.

Those retained are Jonathan Samkange (Mudzi South), Magna Mudyiwa (Mudzi West), Milton Kachepa (Mudzi North), Marble Chinomona (Mutoko North), Simbaneuta Mudarikwa (Uzumba) and provincial minister, David Musabayana (Wedza North).

Those beaten include David Chapfika, who lost to Hebert Shumbamhini in Mutoko South,Ricky Mawere who lost to Richard Musiyiwa in Mutoko East,Tendai Makunde who lost to Daniel Garwe in Murehwa North, Ladious Ndoro who lost to Jonah Sewera in Murehwa West, Washington Musvaire in Marambapfungwa was beaten by Tichaona Karimazondo.

Beatrice Nyamupinga lost to Energy Mutodi in Goromonzi West, Lawrence Katsiru surrendered the Marondera Central seat to Cleopas Kundiona, Jeremiah Chiwetu was floored down by Patrick Chidhakwa in Marondera East and Michael Madanha lost to Tinoda Machakaire in Wedza West.

New faces were also ushered in in Matabeleland South Province, with the Provincial Minister of State, Abednico Ncube being the major casualty after losing to Ompile Marupi in Gwanda South.

Matobo North went to Edgar Moyo with 1 236, with the sitting legislator, Never Khanye polling a paltry 140.

Spare Sithole beat Malachi Nkomo in Insiza South, Andrew Langa lost Faria Taruvinga in Insiza North, while Rtd. Brigadier General Levy Mayihlome won against sitting legislator, William Dewa in Umzingwane.

Matobo South was won by Saul Mahalima Ncube and Bulilima East by Nqobizitha Ndlovu who unseated the incumbent, Mathias Siqhoza Ndlovu.

Dingumuzi Phuthi will be representing Bulilima West, Madodana Sibanda Gwanda North, Albert Nguluvhe Beitbdridge East and Ruth Maboyi Beitbridge West after displacing Matrine Mudau.

In the senate, Zanu PF Secretary for Information and Publicity, Simon Khaya Moyo retained the Bulilima – Mangwe sear and Tambudzani Mohadi beat Zanu PF Matabeleland South Provincial Chairman, Rabelani Choene to the Beitbridge senatorial seat.

The results are yet to be verified by the National Commissariat Department and the Politburo.

Source ZBC News online

By Paul Nyathi|Police in Harare have confirmed that two people actually died in the commuter omnibus accident that occurred in Harare on Tuesday afternoon.

Earlier reports indicated that at least twelve people were feared dead in the accident.

One person died on the spot while another died on admission at Parirenyatwa Hospital. Seventeen of them are admitted at the hospital with ten in critical conditions.

The accident occurred when the driver of the minibus failed to control the vehicle while attempting to overtake a slow moving vehicle.

The driver of the bus was travelling at a very high speed beyond the speed limit in the busy road.

By Paul Nyathi|Preliminary results of the ZANU PF primary elections have begun trickling in with several big guns falling by the way side.

The results are however yet to be confirmed by the National Elections Commission of the party from its head office in Harare.

Results provided to ZimEye.com late Tuesday afternoon by sources within the party. More to follow:

BEITBRIDGE EAST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Albert Nguluvhe

BEITBRIDGE WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Ruth Maboyi Ncube

BEITBRIDGE: SENATORIAL
Tambudzani Mohadi

BIKITA WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
E Musakwa 3445
B Chabaya 1483,
D Makusha 1077,
D Mandebvu 322,
E Machaya 30
N Mashate 0

CHIMANIMANI EAST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Joshua Sacco – 5752
Gwiza Phenias – 1860
Dumisani Siwela – 211
Mawhendepi Batsirai – 87
Antony Machingauta – 82

CHIREDZI SOUTH: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Retired Brig Calisto Gwanetsa 3488
Baloyi 2110.

CHIVI CENTRAL: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Ephraim Gwanongodza – 3906
Munyaradzi P Mangwana – 1969
Manasa Mahapa – 1534
Priscilla Pondo – 428
Albert Chamwadoro – 399
Austin Hakunavanhu – 213

CHIVI CENTRAL: SENATORIAL (Chivi – Mwenezi)
JD Hungwe – 4508
Munetsi Chishamba – 1375
Shepard Komani – 431
Josphat Ngwenya – 213

CHIVI SOUTH: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Killer Zivhu 3412
J Hungoidza. 964
S Mutsamba 790
M Utete 722
E Shindi. 1540

GOROMONZI WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Energy Mutodi 2855
Biata Nyamupinga 1357
Norman Gombera 775
Fungai Chimugoti 612
Total Votes 5599

GURUVE SOUTH: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Patrick Dutiro 2521
Magomo 2339
Mashumba 1007

GWERU URBAN: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Esau Machinyise

MANICALAND WOMEN’S QUOTA
Hamandishe Bukuta Joyce 2630
Matika Patricia 594
Muchinguri Oppah 560
Nyapokoto Theresa 288
Spoiled votes 169

MASVINGO URBAN:
Taguma B. Mazarire 1951
Edson Zvobgo Jnr 1489
Godard Dunhira 428
Gordon Gomba 298

MBERENGWA WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Joram Mcd Gumbo 3500
Adam Ncube 1050

MHANGURA: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Precious Chinhamo Masango Beat
Douglas Mombeshora (Former Lands Minister)

MKOBA: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Charles Simbi

MUTARE WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Muchimwe – 2713
Christopher Mushohwe – 1650
Marange – 749
Marangwanda – 149

NYANGA: SENATORIAL
Nyanhongo Hubert 3251
Nyambuya Michael 859
Mutonhodza Francis 702
Spoiled votes 242

REDCLIFFE
Moyo July 5148
Sibanda Gorge 672
Ncube Haris. 349
Masanga Simon 140
Spoilt 72

VUNGU: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Omega Sibanda

ZAKA CENTRAL: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Davison Svuure 2083
James Makiya 1817
Jonas Chindanya 1249
Paradzai Chakona 1225
Tanaka Mutava 574

ZAKA EAST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Caston Gumbwanda

ZAKA NORTH: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Robson Mavhenyengwa,

ZAKA WEST: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY*m
Ophious Murambiwa

ZVISHAVANE RUNDE: HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Dumezweni Mawite Mpofu – 4200
Lewis Matutu – 100

By Paul Nyathi|At least two people have been confirmed dead in a horrific accident which occured near Harare Showgrounds in the capital (Tuesday), when a commuter omnibus over turned before ramming into a tree.

One person died on spot while the other one died on arrival at Parirenyatwa Hospital.

The accident, which left at least 17 other passengers injured, occurred along Samora Machel Avenue near the Harare Showgrounds.

Eyewitnesses at the scene of the accident said the driver of the mini bus was travelling at a very high speed along the busy road when he lost control of the vehicle while trying to overtake a slow moving vehicle.

The Commuter omnibus was coming from Kuwadzana Extension carrying nearly 20 passengers.

The names of the deceased have been withheld until their next of kin have been advised.

Statement From MDC-T President Dr T. Khupe Marking International Workers Day May 1, 2018.|Fellow Compatriots, workers and progressive forces; I extend fraternal greetings as we mark International Labour Day on May 1, 2018. On behalf of our party, the Movement of Democratic Change, itself a salutary
product of workers’ struggle.

I salute all the workers as we commemorate this important Day where we honour the blood, sweat and tears of the working people throughout history.

In the Zimbabwean context, our movement the MDC-T remains one of the indelible marks that remind us all of
the aspirations of the Zimbabwean people for a better and just society. As a genuine people’s project, our
movement was borne out of the labour struggles as led by the Zimbabwe
Congress of Trade Unions and some of iconic leaders of our glorious movement.

This Day, therefore, remains a crucial reminder to those of us bequeathed with the duty and mission to carry on the people’s struggle for
justice. It is a constant reminder to where we come from, where we are and where we are going. It gives us that
unique opportunity to re-energize the struggle as we reconnect with the workers as the true owners of this
project.

We mark 2018 May Day without one of our iconic trade unionist and formidable leader, Morgan Tsvangirai.

Once more, we take this opportunity to lower our flags in honour of the passing on of this gallant son of workers’
struggle. Indeed, the most befitting honour we can give him is to further the workers’ project until Zimbabwe
attains true democracy and constitutionalism.

Comrades, the recent hard handedness by the Zimbabwe government in response to a legitimate and justifiable industrial action by our nurses is a harbinger for worst things to happen against workers in our
country.

In spite of the propaganda we are continually fed with, of a change by the Zimbabwean authorities. It is now clear for all to see how fallacious the claims were.

The leopard never changes its spots.

Throughout the
painful struggles in Zimbabwe, dating from colonial to post independence period, the workers and peasants have suffered abuse and injustice. The MDC-T emerged as the political voice for the suffering masses of Zimbabwe
precisely to end the abuse and crush the unjust laws and practices that keep the majority in servitude.

It is unfortunate that we mark this Workers Day at a time when the labour movement is at its weakest in Zimbabwe. Weak not because it is poorly organized or badly led. Far from it! It has been bled dry by massive deindustrialization and consequently rampant joblessness.

With such unprecedented high levels of unemployment it is inconceivable how our organized labour could survive without workers contributions.

Workers still organise under very draconian laws like AIPPA, POSA, and other repressive laws. Workers still live
under fear of the State which has largely been hostile to labour. Trade unions are finding it extremely difficult
to organise workers in the informal sector as Zimbabwean economy has become mainly informal. It is indeed a
challenge to unionise casual workers and many in precarious employment.

Workers in Zimbabwe continue to suffer extremes of poverty while others are exiled in neighbouring coutries
separated from family and loved ones and subjected to demeaning employment and at times xenophobia of the
worst kind. Those in rural areas and farms are the worst affected.

Above all, women workers suffer double
discrimination, first as workers and then as women. Women and girls suffer more as economic decline worsens. Women as mothers and workers suffer comparatively more than their male counterparts when social services collapse as is the case in Zimbabwe.

We therefore face both class and gender discrimination. Domestic violence and rape cases remain high further oppressing women who anyway remain vulnerable to sexual
harassment at work places.

Our recent successful extra ordinary congress has successfully demostrated our intent to aggressively confront these ills by being the only national politically party with a fifty pecent gender parity and and women holding substantive positions of leadership.

We commemorate this Workers’ Day fully cognisant of the deprivation and dispossession suffered by workers in Zimbabwe due to poor government policies and grand political corruption.

Workers are the ones who have paid a huge price for the corruption in government, State enterprises and private companies. Fighting corruption remains top on the struggle by the working people in our country.

Our precious minerals
were looted and carted to foreign capitals in Europe, Asia and North America leaving our environment desolate
and degraded. Our raw materials are exported without value addition and hence exporting work opportunities
too.

Workers have suffered from nepotism, regionalism, sexism and tribalism in this country.

Our genuine
struggle against capitalist exploitation has been hampered by the divisive tendencies of these vices that our
government leaders have been complicit in.
We therefore call upon the struggling people of Zimbabwe, the true owners of the MDC-T, to use this Workers Day as reflection and make a resolution for stopping this rot come 2018 elections. As labour leaders, we
acknowledged our dual role for improving work place conditions like better wages and also the broader social
justice issues like good governance, constitutionalism and democracy.

These are the ideals we strive to adhere to as Social Democrats and true pan-Africanists. Ours is a just struggle. The workers shall overcome.

Thank you all.

In perhaps the battle of all battles, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s top aides have been defeated in the just ended primary polls. They include Mnangagwa’s perceived heir Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri.

The Lacoste casualities are:

ZANU-PF National Chairperson and Minister of Environment, Water and Climate Oppah Muchinguri lost to Joyce Bukuta Hamandishe in her quest to represent Nyanga in the Women’s quota.
Minister in charge of Public Service in the President’s Office Simbarashe Mumbengegwi lost to Larry Mavima in the Zvishavane Runde Senatorial poll. Larry Mavima is a close ally to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and is crdited as one of the people behind Mnangagwa’s ascendancy to power.
Matabeleland South provincial affairs minister Abednico Ncube lost to former ZBC journalist Omphile Marupi in the Gwanda South primaries.
Ministry of State in the Presidents’ Office Responsible for National Scholarships Christopher Mushohwe lost to Teedzyi Muchimwe in Mutare West.
Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Enterprise Development Mike Bimha lost to Dr John Mangwiro in Chivhu’s Chikomba West constituency.
Former Cabinet Minister and Zanu-PF Secretary for Legal Affairs Paul Munyaradzi Mangwana lost out to Ephraim Gwanongodza in Chivi Central.
Zanu-PF Youth League Deputy Secretary Lewis Matutu was massacred and lost by more than 4 000 (four thousand) votes to Dumezweni Mawite Mpofu in the Zvishavane Runde poll.
Former Minister of Lands and Resettlement lost to Douglas Mombeshora lost Precious Chinhamo Masango in Mhangura.
Avowed supporter of President Emmerson Mnangagwa Energy Mutodi defeated incumbent Biata Nyamupinga in Goromonzi West.
Though not high profile, Vice President General (retired) Constantino Chiwenga’s mother-in-law Helga Mubaiwa lost out to Munyaradzi Maworesa Kashambe in Seke.

By Paul Nyathi|Highly pompous Minister of Provincial Affairs for Matabeleland South, Abednico Ncube joins the gang of ZANU PF heavyweights that lost in the weekend ZANU PF primary elections.

Sources with the party in Gwanda indicate that still to be proclaimed results are that Ncube lost the election to represent the ruling party in the Gwanda South constituency.

He was kicked out by popular radio personality Omphile Marupi who will now contest against the MDC Alliance coalition candidate in the elections set for July or August.

Ncube has generally been unpopular with the people of Gwanda since he was appointed Minister on allegations that he turned too pompous.

There was wild jubilation in Gwanda in October last year when Ncube lost his ministerial post in a cabinet reshuffle by former President Robert Mugabe before he was brought back by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in November.

By Talent Gondo

Industry, Commerce and Enterprise Development Minister who is the current legislator for Chikomba West, Dr Mike Bimha has reportedly lost Zanu PF primary elections to Dr John Mangwiro.

Bimha lost by a whooping 2 228 votes after Dr Mangwiro  garnered 3 839 votes against Bimha’s 1 611.

The Industry and Commerce minister, who is reportedly a cousin of the former first lady, Grace Mugabe lost the election to Mangwiro, who hails from Chikomba West and is also President of the International Diabetes Federation for Africa Region.

Mangwiro’s activities in the constituency before the primary elections landed the local Headman for Madamombe, Simbarashe Nhopi in trouble with Bimha who allegedly accused him of dabbling in politics by allowing Mangwiro to fund the construction of Police quarters at Madamombe base and the electrification of Madamombe Clinic.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is on record saying that there will be no sacred cows within the party and no bigwigs will be protected during the party’s primaries.

“Let the leaders come from the people. No one will be protected and those who want to contest, contest and the party will field the winners,” said President Mnangagwa.

Bimha is one of Zanu Pf’s political heavy weights elbowed out in the just ended primary polls marred by challenges some of which included violence, logistical challenges, vote buying and allegations of rigging and ballot stuffing.

By Paul Nyathi|Two men have appeared before the Bulawayo Magistrates Court on murder charges after murdering a popular City cross border transporter Bongani Ndlovu popularly known as Bongo.

The two are part of a gang of four that were involved in a brawl with the late Ndlovu outside Zarah Night Club in the Bulawayo City Centre on Saturday night.

Michael Nqabayezwe Ndebele (22) from Lemon Groove, Hillcrest and Adrian Sabelo Mguni (29) a messenger of court made the brief appearance at the court and were remanded in custody until the 7th of May.

It was not explained in court why the other two suspects did not appear.

They are represented by Mr Tanaka Muganyi of Tanaka Law Chambers.

Mr Muganyi said from the witness statements and facts before the court it was clear that the allegations pointed to Mguni.

“We are putting the State on notice that we will challenge the remand of the first accused person,” he said.

Prosecuting, Mr Nkathazo Dlodlo said the incident occurred on Saturday at Zarah Lounge. He said the two assaulted Ndlovu with fists on the face and body.

“Ndlovu fell hitting the ground with the back of the head. He later died at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) on the same day due to injuries sustained as a result of the attack,” he said.

The reason why Ndlovu was assaulted was not mentioned in court.

However, on Sunday Bulawayo police spokesperson, Inspector Precious Simango said the two were with Thamsanqa Mlalazi and Mhlanguli Mguni drinking beer when an argument arose with the deceased and it later degenerated into a fist fight.

“The four teamed up to assault Bongani Ndlovu who managed to escape in the company of a security guard and headed for Bulawayo Central Police Station to make a report but before he got there, he fell down and became unconscious.

“An ambulance was summoned but he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the United Bulawayo Hospitals,” said Insp Simango.

By Paul Nyathi|President Emmerson Mnangagwa says that the chaos, confusion and wanton election rigging that characterised the just ended ZANU PF Primary Elections were just teething problems of the “new dispensation.”

In a statement he released on Monday shortly after the close of the voting, Mnangagwa said that the party had set a new level of democracy through the chaotic elections.

“What set these party primary elections apart from those we have had in the past is the fact that these have been conducted under the auspices of a newly-created arm of our party, the Party Elections Commission, which we commissioned recently in order to professionalise our candidate selection process, so we deepen our party’s internal democratic traditions,” said President Mnangagwa.

“Whatever teething problems we have experienced so far and we have noted them closely, we remain convinced that the democratic course we have started in the management of our party affairs is the correct one, indeed one befitting a party of our history, our strength, and our stature.”

Mnangagwa said that the way the primary elections were conducted should be used as a means of shaping the upcoming national elections.

“This means our responsibilities in shaping and reshaping the national body politic, as well as the national democratic and electoral ethos, can never be shirked or overstated,” he said.

“As the ruling party, the democratic content and standards of our processes define and pre-ordain our national politics.

“We thus must not fear to widen the scope and play of the elective ethic in our party affairs and processes.

“Whatever challenges we face in the interim must thus be in the direction of firmly rooting the democratic ethos which, after all, we planted in the land through our historical sacrifices as a party of national liberation.”

The buoyant Mnangagwa vowed that the ruling party will resoundingly win harmonised elections due in July or August this year.

“As we inch nearer and nearer the Harmonised National Elections which will fall due in a few months’ time, our national people’s party, the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (Zanu-PF) is gradually, but inexorably putting its ducks in a row for this plebiscite which it is set to win resoundingly,” said Mnangagwa.

President Mnangagwa said the turnout in the primary elections was overwhelming.

“Far more poignant than the teething problems we have encountered in this internal selection project is the overwhelming turnout of our people who have registered their enthusiasm and keenness to participate in this process, which after all, they see as guaranteeing their successful election in the forthcoming plebiscite,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said the primary elections had displayed Zanu-PF’s strength.

“Equally, our capacity to compete against one another in a non-antagonistic, comradely way has been demonstrated,” he said. “We have thus sown a seed of internal party democracy; we have thus successfully tested our cohesion as members of the same political family.

“And because of both, we have just sent clear signals to those who have chosen to pit themselves against the sheer might of our party.”

By Talent Gondo

Former Zanu PF Member of Parliament for Chivi North, Tranos Huruva faces jail for malicious damage to property after he allegedly stormed a polling centre during the party’s primary elections at Mhandamabwe Business Centre on Sunday and destroyed ballot papers.

Huruva, whose candidature in the polls was turned down by the party, allegedly tore to shreds ballot papers at Chitowa Hall near Mhandamabwe Business Centre.

According to a report by The Herald, the Masvingo provincial party leadership has reported Huruva to the police, who have since lodged a manhunt for the ex legislator, who was allegedly in the company of a group of unknown people.

Zanu Pf Masvingo Provincial Chairman, Ezra Chadzamira confirmed the development adding that Huruva’s conduct was criminal.

“The police are looking for him because it’s quite obvious that if a person does what he did, they will have to be arrested for committing a crime,” said  Chadzamira.

The race for the Zanu-PF Chivi North House of Assembly ticket is beibg contested by legislator Major Mathias Tongofa (Retired),  Brigadier General Elasto Madzingira (Rtd), Major Clifford Mumbengegwi (Rtd), Cde Collen Mharadzano and Cde Brighton Ndove.

Voting in Chivi had to be postponed to Monday to enable the delivery of a new batch of voting material so that the electorate could cast their ballots afresh.

Officer Commanding Crime in Masvingo Province Assistant Commissioner Crispen Makedenge confirmed that the police are looking for Huruva in connection with malicious damage to property.

“We are looking for him (Huruva) and we will charge him with malicious damage to property after he tore ballot papers while people were voting in Zanu-PF primaries in Chivi North,” he said.

Statement By Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition|On International Workers’ Day, CiZC stands in solidarity with persecuted civil servants

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) joins the rest of the world in commemorating the 2018 International Workers’ Day which is being commemorated under the theme, “Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement”.

As the world commemorates this important day, CiZC implores the Zimbabwean government to urgently address the concerns of civil servants, most of whom are earning far below the Poverty Datum Line (PDL) which is currently estimated at around $600.00.

CiZC holds the view that a motivated workforce (in this particular instance civil servants) is critical for national development hence the need for the government to prioritize the welfare of its workers.

CiZC notes with concern that the government has for years totally ignored the concerns of civil servants and as discontent continues to grow among the workers, the government has resorted to intimidation and threats of dismissal.

The recent move (on April 17, 2018) by the Vice President, Retired General Constantine Chiwenga to fire striking nurses has shown a blatant disregard for labour rights by the “new dispensation”.

That is why we insist on the need for Zimbabwe to be open in all fronts, rather than being ‘open for business’, which in this case is a euphemism for outright exploitation of Zimbabwe-As if to say Zimbabwe is under the hammer, up for grabs for exploitation as the leadership is seemingly sleeping on the switch.

When there is such a blanket ‘open for business’, it’s the rights of the citizens in general and those of workers specifically that are undermined as there will be brazen state-capital collusion.

We implore the government to desist from heavy handed approaches and prioritize negotiations when dealing with genuine concerns from its workers.

Heavy handed approaches, as shown by VP Chiwenga will only plunge the nation into a deeper crisis, as the government is seen to be disregarding the constitution, which it is supposed to protect.

When such excesses happen, the government continues on the path of apparent disregard of labour rights and resorts to military tactics to quell genuine protests by impoverished workers.

We take with great concern the move by the government to politicize industrial actions by civil servants who are merely seeking to push their employer to improve their welfare as well as working conditions

It is quite clear that the continued unrest in Zimbabwe’s public service is evidence of the government’s failure to prioritize the welfare of its workers. In some instances, the government has gone to an extent of misleading the nation on issues of civil servants’ salaries.

This was the case when Health Minister, Dr. David Parirenyatwa publicly announced in March 2018 that they had reached an agreement with striking doctors yet that was not the situation on the ground.

This year’s workers day comes at a time teachers have threatened to go on a nationwide strike and CiZC implores the government to urgently act and negotiate with the teachers to avert yet another national crisis.

CiZC also calls upon employers across the board to prioritize workers’ welfare and strive to ensure that salaries are in line with the Poverty Datum Line. It however must also be noted that improving the investment climate in the country is critical in improving the welfare of workers.

CiZC, stands in solidarity with the workers of Zimbabwe and urges them to remain vigilant in defending their constitutionally guaranteed rights which includes the right to organize, collective bargaining and petitioning.

By Dorrothy Moyo| The Home Affairs Minister, Obert Mpofu, has promised to assist diasporans.

Mpofu who last month travelled to Botswana to tell diasporans there to return home (because the country is now safe), has said Zimbabweans in foreign countries will benefit from the Mnangagwa government’s re-engagement efforts.

“Zimbabwe is now friendly to all the countries within and outside the region. We want our citizens to be treated in a manner that is cordial and receive attention on issues where-ever they are from the Government,” said Mpofu quoted by the state media.

He said Government is in the process of engaging South Africa after Zimbabweans based in the neighbouring country highlighted their challenges to Mnangagwa.

Mpofu also talked about his discussions with the South African government. He said, “issues relating to permits and general concerns of disporans were raised during the President’s visit to South Africa. They (diasporans) raised quite a number of issues which we are likely to deal with when we do follow ups as ministers,” he added.

A Harare woman got married while she was already five months pregnant with another man’s child before killing the newly born baby in a bid to save the marriage, a court heard yesterday.

Grace Mukwena (23) of 2777 Domboramwari, Epworth, secretly gave birth in a toilet while her husband was sleeping and strangled the baby girl to death, it is alleged.

She initially appeared in court on Saturday facing infanticide charges and was remanded in custody to yesterday for bail ruling.
Mukwena was back in court yesterday and appeared before magistrate Ms Tilda Mazhande who granted her $50 bail.

As part of her bail conditions, she was ordered to report once a week to the police, not to interfere with witnesses and continue residing at the given address until finalisation of the matter. She will be back in court on May 15.

It is the State’s case that Mukwena was impregnated by her then boyfriend Taurai Chidza, who lives in Mutare, before they parted ways when she was five months’ pregnant. She later got married to Proud Tole.

In a bid to save her marriage, Mukwena, the court heard, did not disclose to her husband that she was already pregnant. Four months into the marriage, on April 27 at around 3am, she went into labour while she was sleeping with her husband.

Mukwena quickly went out of the house and proceeded to the toilet on the pretext she wanted to relieve herself. Tole remained in bed.

Prosecutor Ms Linda Gadzikwa alleged that Mukwena gave birth to a baby girl in the toilet and immediately strangled her to death.

Upon noticing that his wife had taken long to return from the toilet, Tole decided to check on her and went to the toilet. He got the shock of his life when he saw his wife standing next to the lifeless body of a newly born child.

It is alleged that Tole rushed to their neighbour’s house and alerted them. One of the female neighbours wrapped the body in a cloth and rushed to Epworth Polyclinic together with Mukwena.

The sister-in-charge at the clinic confirmed that the baby was dead. The sister-in-charge then called the police after noticing that the baby had some bruises on the neck and was bleeding from the nose and mouth. -state media

A Bulawayo man nearly defrauded EcoSure Funeral Services of $2 000 after misrepresenting that his mother in-law had died.

Khululekani Nyoni (34), a holder of an EcoSure funeral policy, connived with Morgan Moyo (26) and another accomplice who is at large and went to EcoSure services to file a death claim against Ms Egnes Tshuma.

Nyoni pleaded guilty to fraud while Moyo pleaded not guilty before Bulawayo magistrate Mr Franklin Mkhwananzi.

Moyo said he did not know that Ms Tshuma was alive and stated that he was only asked to fill out forms.

Mr Mkhwananzi remanded Nyoni in custody to tomorrow for plea recording. He remanded Moyo out of custody on $50 bail to the same day for provision of a trial date.

Prosecuting, Mr Maclean Ndlovu said the three went to EcoSure offices located along Connaught Avenue and Robert Mugabe Way where they filed a death claim for Nyoni’s mother-in-law.

“On February 27, Nyoni filled in an EcoSure Death claim form to the effect that a beneficiary under his account, Tshuma, had passed on in Matshakayile Village, Lupane,” he said.

“Moyo and the other man completed the EcoSure death claim form as witnesses to the passing on of Tshuma. They submitted the forms while knowing that Tshuma had not passed on.”

Mr Ndlovu said investigations done revealed that Ms Tshuma was still alive and the three had lied. He said by such misrepresentation they stood to benefit $2 000 from the claim in the event that the money was released.-state media

Former Zanu-PF Chivi North legislator Tranos Huruva faces arrest after he allegedly stormed a polling centre in the constituency where people were voting in the ruling party primary elections and destroyed ballot papers on Sunday, before disappearing.

The Masvingo provincial party leadership has since reporteed Huruva to the police.

Huruva, who was barred from contesting primary elections in the race to be legislator for the constituency, was allegedly in the company of a group of unknown people when he swooped on the ballot papers and tore them to shreds as voting was underway at Chitowa Hall near Mhandamabwe Business Centre.

The race for the Zanu-PF Chivi North House of Assembly ticket pit incumbent legislator Major Mathias Tongofa (Retired) against Brigadier General Elasto Madzingira (Rtd), Major Clifford Mumbengegwi (Rtd), Collen Mharadzano and Brighton Ndove.
Voting had to be postponed to yesterday after delivery of a new batch of voting material to enable the voters to cast their ballots afresh.

“The police are looking for him because it’s quite obvious that if a person does what he did, they will have to be arrested for committing a crime,” Zanu-PF Masvingo provincial chairman Ezra Chadzamira.

“We were left with no option save to stop the voting (on Sunday) and people were only able to vote afresh today (yesterday) at the polling station in question and the law will definitely take its course.”

Officer Commanding Crime in Masvingo Province Assistant Commissioner Crispen Makedenge confirmed they wanted to charge Huruva for destroying ballot papers in Chivi North.

Asst Comm Makedenge said a manhunt was underway for the ex-Chivi North legislator.
“We are looking for him ( Huruva) and we will charge him with malicious damage to property after he tore ballot papers while people were voting in Zanu-PF primaries in Chivi North,” he said. -state media