Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.  Mr. Speaker, I want to thank you for the opportunity to add my views on the proposed 2024 budget. Firstly, I want to highlight that the projected reality of the upcoming 2024 year will form the premise of my debate.

The anticipated effects of the El Nino drought which we can feel even now, means beyond food security, we have to consider the massive drop in water levels which will have a ripple effect on the ability of the Kariba hydro plant to supply adequate electricity, thereby also affecting manufacturing and industry, coupling this with global challenges that we expect to be facing next year. 

It is a marvel that the Hon. Minister has projected that we will reach 3,5% growth in the 2024 year. In light of this, I must applaud the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion for including the $300 COVID Allowance towards the pension as this will protect our Civil Service and encourage the aspect of proper budgeting.

On the Wealth Tax, this is by definition, a proper initiative and I would like to thank our Minister for the proposition. However, I would like to propose that the tax condition should be limited to those who have two or more properties, the first one being exempted as a primary residence.

This will ensure that you are not just hitting someone who has had his primary residence and who has worked hard for that particular residence out of the blue, but instead, you are saying who is going to enjoy further investments from additional residences out of their primary residence will be falling under that Wealth Tax.

         Given the difficult year ahead and with our challenges to have access to finance due to the punitive sanctions, again I applaud the Ministers for finding ways to finance our road infrastructure.  In Manicaland, we have a big challenge at the Forbes Border Post, the massive increase in productivity has led to long queues that lead to Mutare Town. 

All this is happening before the Sabi Star Lithium Mine in Buhera starts exporting its product at full capacity.  This means that at its full capacity; we will have more than 100 trucks in a month, working our roads and extending the queues at the Forbes Boarder Post.

         To this effect, the proposed marginal fuel levy is a welcome development.  I support that it be ring-fenced towards road infrastructure.  In the same vein, the toll fee increase suggested is also a welcome initiative to add to the funds needed for road infrastructure and development.

         Mr. Speaker Sir, I must say that adding to road infrastructure should not just be on a quantitive basis, but on a qualitative one.  It is not enough to say that we need to add on to the roads, but we must also need to maintain the roads so that we have a standard that cuts across as our economy grows. 

         I want to take in the recommendation again of the Finance Committee that the public transport would ordinarily carry the low-income earners, that they be exempted from this toll fee increase.  Mr. Speaker Sir, I agree with the two cents per gram levy on beverages.  This is not a sugar tax itself which is a basic necessity, but on the beverages that are not classified as basic commodities.

Having heard sentiments alluding to the probability of smuggling, one should not be afraid to implement a progressive policy out of fear of illegality.  This is why we have our security sector at the border post and to ensure we protect local industry from the effects of smuggling. 

So, I propose that the Minister, in the same vein, also increases the budget of the Ministry of Home Affairs which deals with border control and smuggling which was originally allocated 3,9 trillion against the budget requirement of 9,5 trillion.

         As we consider the sugar tax, which is a progressive tax, I would also, in the same vein, highlight to the Minister of Finance that drug and substance abuse is a scourge that has affected our nation. 

So whether it be under this budget consideration or future consideration, I suggest that the Minister must look into creating a fund that is directed towards drug and substance abuse.    In this vein, the Minster must consider putting a tax on alcohol in the same way that he implemented towards sugar tax. 

         Mr. Speaker Sir, as a youth, education is a priority for the future of our country. In this light, I want to highlight under the Ministry of War Veterans Affairs where they stated that under their education, only one billion was allocated out of a requirement of 136 billion.  This is only 15% of the students that are already attending school. 

In the first term of 2024, only half of the students that go to school would have fully paid school fees.  The rest will not have fees paid for them and this is for War Veterans, people who went to war, and people who suffered injuries only for their families to be insulted in that way.

         Mr. Speaker Sir, it is my humble plea that we urge the Ministry of Finance to put more weight, especially on the Education of the children of War Veterans, and meet the demand to show our appreciation for their efforts of having gone to the war.  We know they did not have the opportunity to go to school themselves, but at least let us allow their children to get a decent education without any disturbance.

         Last but not least, I would want to just say, having heard all the arguments that I appreciate the Minister of Finance for continuing with a pro-poor budget, and I recommend that the Minister of Finance must be behold in ensuring that mechanisms are put in place, especially for the ring-fenced taxes that he suggested. 

If indeed we are talking about ring-fencing for mining communities, let that amount go back to the mining community, be it Penhalonga, Buhera, or Mashonaland Central – it must follow that the last person on the ground can feel that the taxes are working.  With that, I humbly submit

Some shops have hiked prices on basic grocery items, making the festive season increasingly gloomy for most citizens already struggling to make ends meet.

According to a survey conducted by a local publication, shops have increased the prices of mealie-meal, sugar, cooking oil, rice and sugar, among others, even in United States dollars.

In some retail shops, a 2-litre bottle of cooking oil, which was selling at US$3, now costs US$4.50, while the price of a 2kg pack of rice rose to US$3.50 from US$2.

The price of a 2-litre bottle of Mazoe Crush rose to US$4,50 from $3, while a bar of washing soap now costs US$1.50 from US$1.

However, the Minister of Industry and Commerce Sithembiso Nyoni told NewsDay on Thursday that the Government will not impose price controls, but engage business over the price increases. She said:

Government does not tame prices. What we do is we discuss with the business and try to understand why they are hiking prices.

So, I will set up an office to look into that and then we will take the necessary dialogue steps to look into that.

Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) president Denford Mutashu warned of further price hikes.

He blamed the price increases on proposals to increase taxes by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube in the 2024 budget. Said Mutashu:

There is a huge expectation of more price hikes before year-end and this has been triggered by the barrage of taxes on basic commodities contained in the 2024 budget.

The proposal to increase VAT [value-added tax] on basic commodities shocked the market because, since 1980, we have not had a hike on VAT on basic commodities.

The 1% wealth tax proposal has also resulted in property owners raising their rental fees.

So, business owners who rent property will increase the prices of the services and commodities.

He said the daily power cuts have increased the cost of running business as businesses are forced to rely on generators as alternative power sources. Mutashu said:

Big businesses are running on generators as a power source and it is not sustainable. It is not cost-effective, so all these cost drivers have piled pressure.

If there is no reversal of VAT on basic commodities and VAT on school fees, it is going to be a disaster because already schools have increased fees to cushion themselves from the VAT proposal.

Some schools have reportedly announced intentions to increase fees by up to 100% next term.

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube has increased the import duty on the importation of luxury vehicles beginning 01 January 2024.

The new rates are contained in Statutory Instrument 239A of 2023 published in an extraordinary Government Gazette on Wednesday in terms of the Customs and Excise Act and may be cited as the Customs and Excise (Surcharge) Notice, 2023. It reads in part:

A surcharge specified in the Schedule to this notice shall apply on motor vehicles with Free On-Board values specified therein. The surcharge shall not apply to motor vehicles of a commercial nature and importations by Government.

Statutory Instrument 239A of 2023 stipulates that vehicles with a Free On Board value of between US$120 000 and US$300 000 will pay a surcharge of 30 per cent, while those valued at US$300 001 to US$700 000 will be taxed at 40 per cent while those above US$700 000 will pay 50 per cent of the value.
The new Statutory Instrument will repeal Statutory Instrument 87 of 2023 which prescribed a surcharge of 30 percent on vehicles valued at US$120 000 or more which shall cease to apply on 31 December 2023.

By A Correspondent- The High Court has set aside a decision that ordered a Karoi man to pay back US$2 700 bride price to his son-in-law after his wife cheated on him.

Charles Bandera sued his son-in-law, Maxmillan Kondowe, appealing against a default judgment that ordered him to return the money after his daughter, Shumirai Bandera, committed adultery.

Maxmillan married Shumirai at a ceremony in Karoi sometime in March 2021 but was told he could only start living with her as his wife after their wedding.

But just two months after the lobola ceremony, Maxmillan discovered that Shumirai was sexually involved with another man. He confronted her and she allegedly confessed to the adultery in Harare.

Maxmillan went on to institute customary marriage divorce proceedings and the couple’s marriage was dissolved in January 2022.

He then served summons on Kondowe his father-in-law to return his bride price.

Kondowe failed to enter his appearance to defend the action leading the court to grant a default judgment in August 2022 that ordered him to return Maxmillan’s bride price.

After discovering that a Messenger of Court was deployed to execute the judgment, Kondowe applied for rescission of the same which was countered by Maxmillan’s application to stay the execution.

My dearest friends, today marks exactly one and half years, that is, the full 18 months under persecution, incarceration in a meter by two and half meters solitary confinement in Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison by the regime in Zimbabwe since my arrest on the 14th of June 2023. During this period hot weather and electricity blackouts in the dark solitary dungeon where you can hold the thick of darkness, I wake up during the middle of the night, the room is fully flooded with my sweat, mosquitos having completed feasting breakfast, lunch and supper from my bare body.

I taught myself that decency is only for free. I am under repression and I must conquer the mental motives of my persecutors. What must be known my dearest friends is that there is no amount of suffering that I have not gone through in my life. I slept on an empty stomach days to no end, but was never tempted to steal from anyone all my life. I, and my late parents labored in other people’s fields for school fees, food and clothing. Railway stations and bus terminuses became my shelter in search of a better life. I used thatched slums built of poles as accommodation going to school. I used to travel 46 Kilometers daily to and from school, living in Zaka, walking round Siya Dam to Mazunguye Secondary School in Bikita.

Crossing paths with hippopotamus from Siya Dam and Leopard harbored in the mountains separating Zaka and Bikita during dark hours coming from school. There is no difficult situation insurmountable to me. I am a typical field Negro. This must inform everyone about the comfort and satisfaction I get by living among the poor people. We share our poverty together. That is why I am passionately prepared to die for the poor and the downtrodden.

They deserve complete protection and shelter from those who wield power. I lived the experience and the new experience I am going through has strengthened me. I have witnessed some becoming mentally unstable, after few weeks of solitary confinement where I am currently detained. All this because I was the lawyer to the family of the late Moreblessing Ali, a poor woman who was gruesomely and callously murdered.

Few days ago I saw her in her dream flying like an angel in white garments coming where I was standing with some people in my company. I asked those who were with me in that dream, whether the person who was flying to us was not Moreblessing Ali. They told me that it was truly her. I further asked them, why she was not walking but flying in wings. I can’t share more of what she said to me after she landed where we were standing.

It is now eleven days from Christmas, and 18days from New Year. I wish all of you my dearest Zimbabwean and Worldwide Friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. For me, it is the 2nd year running having my Christmas and New Year under repressive incarceration. It is the second year running when my wife and children will have their Christmas and New Year without their Father. I will celebrate mine in solitary dungeon.

It’s sad that nation is now bereft of moral leaders since the bewitching of Arch Bishop Pius Ncube Mercenarism has crippled inn. They lined up for dirty cars and dirty money from the oppressor, deforming the name of God. They can’t speak a word on the face of gross injustice being perpetrate against me.

Hundred kisses of love my dearest Zimbabwean and Worldwide Friends. I Love you all. Stop not praying for me and Zimbabwe.

Enjoy your Christmas and New Year.

Job Sikhala
Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison

A 37 year old man from Bindura, Mashonaland Central Province, Patrick Kingirasi, who was arrested on allegations of undermining the authority of or insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been granted ZWL$500 000 bail.

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) said that Kingirasi, an unemployed resident of Bindura, was arrested last month and spent 24 days in pre-trial detention in Bindura Prison.

On Tuesday, 12 December, Bindura Magistrate Ndokera set Kingirasi free after granting him ZWL$500 000 bail.

Kingirasi, who was represented by human rights lawyer Pride Dzapasi, returns to court on 15 December. ZLHR said:

Prosecutors alleged that Kingirasi who is represented by [Pride P Dzapasi] undermined and insulted President Mnangagwa on 2 October, when he called Edson Chibaya, a fellow Bindura resident, on his mobile phone and made some utterances to the effect that the ruling ZANU PF political party members were thieves and blamed the ruling party’s leader for causing massive suffering among citizens and for authoring the country’s economic crisis.

Kingirasi is alleged to have shouted at Chibaya in the Shona language that “Musandiitire zvechimbavha zve ZANU PF nava Mnangagwa venyu varikutipa kutambura,” which prosecuting authorities translated to mean “Do not be thievery in ZANU PF way with your Mnangagwa, who is causing us to suffer.”

Prosecutors said Kingirasi’s alleged utterances were unlawful, intentional, abusive, indecent and abusive.

The Bindura resident is the latest among dozens of Zimbabweans, who have been arrested, detained and prosecuted on charges of undermining the authority of or insulting President Mnangagwa.

During the reign of Robert Mugabe, the country’s late leader, more than 200 people were prosecuted and persecuted on the same nefarious charges of undermining the authority of or insulting the President, charges which continue to be preferred against citizens in the post-Mugabe era.

By A Correspondent- Three students from TelOne Centre of Learning who allegedly sold a leaked HEXCO Engineering and Mathematics paper that was written last week to some first year counterparts have appeared in court today.

Elton James, Kudzai Shepherd Chimutsa and Bradley Mangombe appeared before Harare Magistrate Mr Dennis Mangosi facing possession of articles for criminal use.

They were remanded out of custody on $50 bail each and will be back in court on January 18, 2024 for trial date.

The State alleged that on December 8, the complainant, TelOne Centre of Learning represented by Josephine Muzhangiri received information that examination papers which were being written have leaked at the institution.

She then started doing some internal investigations which revealed that Nicolette Rukasha and Princess Gunduza who are Part 1.1 students at the institution were seen in possession of the leaked HEXCO Engineering Mathematics Paper 1 which had been written on December 7 at the institution.

They were asked and revealed that they bought the leaked examination paper from Mangombe and Chimutsa.

Mangombe was approached and he led Muzhangiri to Chimutsa who he said was the one who sold it to Rukasha and Gunduza.

Chimutsa, upon being interrogated, revealed that he got it from Elton James leading to the arrest of James, Chimutsa and Mangombe.

By A Correspondent- A caretaker from Plumtree, Ishmael Dube, found himself in legal trouble last week, resulting in the revelation of his stolen possessions hidden within a church building.

Dube faced charges at the Plumtree Magistrates Court on Wednesday, presided over by Magistrate Joshua Nembaware, who subsequently sentenced him to two years in jail. This verdict came after Dube pleaded guilty, with six months of the sentence conditionally suspended.

According to the prosecution led by Selestine Madziwa, the incident occurred on December 7 when Thandiwe Mbewe secured her homestead and left. Upon her return, she discovered that Dube had unlawfully entered her residence by breaking a window.

The convict made off with several items, including blankets, clothes, a microphone, a drilling machine, and a wood cutting machine. Subsequently, Dube stored his stolen goods in a church building, presumably for safekeeping.

Upon returning home the next day, Mbewe realized her belongings had been stolen. During her search for the missing items, she located some of them within a nearby church. Promptly, a police report was filed, leading to Dube’s subsequent arrest.

In court, Dube admitted to the charges, resulting in his conviction and the imposed sentence. Magistrate Nembaware, in delivering the verdict, opted for a two-year jail term, with six months conditionally suspended, highlighting the severity of Dube’s actions and the impact on the victim.

By A Correspondent- Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) lawmaker, Job Sikhala, currently languishing at Chikurubi Maximum Prison on alleged violence incitement, on Wednesday stood to defend himself as his defence hearing commenced before Harare magistrate Tafadzwa Miti.

The veteran politician is jointly charged with CCC MP Godfrey Sithole.

The two are accused of inciting public violence during the tense period which followed the shock killing of CCC activist Moreblessing Ali in Nyatsime, Chitungwiza May last year.

The state bases its evidence on a video image of Sikhala demanding justice for the slain activist.

The two had their application for discharge dismissed recently after the court ruled they had a case to answer.

On Wednesday, Sikhala, also a lawyer, took a swipe at prosecutors he accused of incompetence in handling the case.

The state alleged that charges against the fiery politician and rights activist arose from a video he allegedly captured and published with local media.

But Sikhala said no one from the publication testified when the state led evidence into his trial.

“They failed to produce any iota of evidence,” Sikhala said.

“I’ve been in a lot of cases in this court, but I have never come across such embarrassing evidence like the one that was produced by the State in this case.

“I was expecting the State to prove through their witnesses the evidence that I had posted any video which they failed to do with their four witnesses.”

Sikhala singled out Gift Mutara, the IO in his case, saying he failed to produce evidence to prove the case.

“During his testimony and cross examination, he was asked to produce that evidence and he said he did have it before this court,” he said.

Sikhala also said prosecutors failed to support a claim that he ferried mourners to Nyatsime area.

“The allegations that I supplied transport to people in Nyatsime are the lies the State has been peddling in this court.

“That’s why we made an application for the entire outline to be expunged from the record because none of the witnesses could support it,” he said.

The trial will continue on December 19.

By A Correspondent- Simmering tension has absorbed the ruling Zanu-PF in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Midlands backyard, stoked by the party’s provincial leadership’s decision to block scheduled disciplinary hearings for his allies who lost in primary elections and tried to canvass protest votes against the winning candidates in the 23 August polls.

In a memo to district coordinating committees and senior provincial members on Monday last week, acting Zanu-PF Midlands provincial chairperson Edson Chiherenge notified that disciplinary hearings would be held 6 December.

Part of the memo reads: “All members of the party who were summoned to appear before the Midlands provincial disciplinary committee are directed to report at the Zanu-PF provincial offices on (Wednesday) December 6, 2023.”

However, the following day, Chiherenge wrote another memo cancelling the scheduled hearings.

“Please be advised that the acting Midlands provincial chairman has ordered the nullification of all disciplinary processes within the Midlands province. All notices of hearings and prohibition orders issued out are no longer valid,” he wrote.

Sources told The NewsHawks that the directive to block the hearings had come to the Midlands Zanu-PF leadership from higher offices at party headquarters in Harare after it was discovered that Mnangagwa’s allies such as Justice Mayor Wadyajena were in the firing line.

Wadyajena, who lost to Flora Buka during the primaries, was placed on suspension after being accused of sabotaging her campaign rallies and canvassing for protest votes.

“The cancelling of the hearings has now sowed seeds of division in the party and people in the structures of the party are agonising. They are saying no one must be bigger than the party,” an impeccable source told The NewsHawks.

“People in the party expected justice to be done on those charged and suspended for indiscipline. The party is being weakened by things like this and the tension at the moment is at its highest levels.”

Other sources highlighted that without any punishment being seen to be imposed on those who erred ahead of the 23 August elections, internal healing of those aggrieved will continue to affect party business in the Midlands.

“All is not well in Zanu-PF Midlands. The people are angry and this is now adding to the disgruntlement on candidate selection ahead of the elections where certain comrades were imposed,” another source told The NewsHawks.

In March this year, Mnangagwa’s close allies in his Midlands backyard were exempted from being challenged by other party officials in Zanu-PF primary elections ahead of the 23 August elections, in a development that fomented political tension.

These included cabinet minister July Moyo, who was listed as an unopposed candidate for Redcliff constituency; former minister of State in the President’s Office in Charge of Policy Implementation Jorum Gumbo, who went on to represent the ruling party in Mberengwa unopposed as a senator and former State Security minister Owen Ncube, who contested in Gokwe-Kana constituency.

In Kwekwe Central, Energy Ncube, the nephew of former State Security minister Owen “Mudha” Ncube, was imposed as an automatic candidate ahead of former city deputy mayor John Mapuranga who represented the party in last year’s 26 March by-elections and Archbishop Kandros Mugabe, a prominent gold baron who represented the party in the 2018 general polls.

In Chiundura, there was an uproar after accusations of rigging against former Vungu Rural District Council chairperson Celton Charamba, who was initially announced the winner, but political commissar Mike Bimha overturned his victory on the final list made public in Harare. Slemani Kwidini was subsequently declared winner.

In Zhombe constituency there was massive disgruntlement after Mnangagwa’s ally Edmore Samambwa was declared an uncontested candidate despite the fact that several members had forwarded their applications to the provincial leadership expressing interest in contesting at that time.

Samambwa is Mnangagwa’s long-time ally. He was suspended as Midlands Zanu-PF youth chairperson in March 2016 for supporting the Mnangagwa faction at a time the camp was battling the G40 faction in the race to succeed the then president Robert Mugabe.

In May, Zanu-PF accordingly dispatched two senior party officials, Tino Machakaire and Lovemore Matuke to the Midlands to hold crisis meetings following the political turmoil that has gripped Mnangagwa’s home province ahead of the August general elections.

The mayhem emanated from the holding of controversial primary elections to choose party candidates which were marred by accusations of internal vote rigging. As a result, popular party members fell by the wayside while Mnangagwa’s associates were exempted from the intra-party contestation.

The latest developments in which Mnangagwa’s allies have been pardoned before hearings are therefore worsening the already existing tension in the ruling party in the Midlands province.

By A Correspondent- The City of Harare will have its fourth mayor in four months after local government minister Winston Chitando confirmed the recall of Lovejoy Chitengu as councillor for Ward 36.

The recall instigated by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC interim secretary general, was originally communicated to the local authority on November 13 by Chitando – before Chitengu was voted mayor.

Following a series of back and forth letters with the City of Harare, Chitando clarified in a December 11 letter to Harare’s town clerk: “Reference is made to… our minute to yourselves dated November 13; your minute to ourselves dated November 16 and the received communication from Citizens Coalition for Changs dated November 26 on the matter of Lovejoy Chitengu who has ceased to be a member.

“In terms of section 278(1) of the constitution of Zimbabwe as read with section 129(1)(k), ward 36 is vacant.

“Please proceed to inform the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission of the vacancy.”

Jacob Mafume was Harare mayor until the August 23 general elections. Councillors elected Ian Makone as Harare mayor on September 11 before he was recalled by Tshabangu on November 13.

Curiously, the same communication of Makone’s recall sent by Chitando on November 13 also contained Chitengu’s name, but he carried on regardless and Harare councillors subsequently elected him mayor on November 21.

The local authority must now elect a new mayor, the fourth for the city since August.

The Citizens Coalition for Change led by Nelson Chamisa which sponsored the recalled councillors is fighting in court to reestablish authority after5 dismissing Tshabangu as an impostor.

By A Correspondent- The Citizens Coalition for Change’s (CCC) Youth Task Force in Bulawayo has threatened street protests if urgent electoral reforms are not implemented.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, 14 December, CCC Task Force National Administrator Pashor Raphael Sibanda, who was elected Cowdray Park MP in August before he was recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu in October, alleged that key State institutions such as the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), the judiciary system, and ZRP have been captured by ZANU PF.

Sibanda said CCC representatives were illegally recalled from both parliament and local governments with the help of the “captured” institutions. Senzeni Ncube of CITE quoted Sibanda as saying:

We are aware of the Zanu-PF agenda to try to steal the will of the people and undermine the role of the alternative in the country.

We have noted imposters, fraudsters and criminals being used by the regime as political condoms to collapse the people’s movement and aid a one-party state through illegal recalls.

 We want to send a clear message to the regime to reform as a matter of urgency and let the will of the people be respected and protected.

Failure to do so the streets shall be the avenue of our struggle.

Responding to Sibanda’s utterances, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba mocked the former legislator and described him as “a mere deviant boy”. Charamba posted on X:

SITUATING PASHOR SIBANDA: PASHOR is not important as a person; if anything, he is a mere deviant boy who has yet to secure any form of employment in his life.

PASHOR is important as an incarnation of Triple C’s desperate rethink, buttressed by resolutions of what is termed the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders’ Network which held its “summit” in Namibia from 22 to 24 November 2023.

At that meeting – which the State covered – there was a decision to change tact towards more confrontational politics, with Triple C getting direct funding, as happened to MDC during Tsvangirai days, and to Hichilema’s UPND before the Lungu defeat.

More importantly, a decision was taken to found a more youthful and militant leadership for the opposition, with four names suggested as foremost. I shall have occasion to reveal them.

A follow-up meeting was scheduled for 5th December, in Lusaka, Zambia. Again, I will apprise you at an appropriate time. Essentially this Western outfit is a Third Force in the making, which is why Chamisa is very worried.

It threatens to supersede him, forcing him to go suicidal through dull brawn actors like Pashor and Mkwananzi.

Of course, these boys of brawn will soon learn – like the proverbial burnt child – to dread fire!!!! Ndapedza; vanzwa vatonzwa!

By A Correspondent- In a surprising turn of events, Nelson Chamisa, one of the leaders of the Citizens for Change Coalition (CCC), has raised eyebrows by instructing the removal of his long-time allies, Tendai Biti and Welshman Ncube, from the crucial WhatsApp group known as “Mugwazo.” This move has left many within the party questioning Chamisa’s leadership and intentions.

The Mugwazo group, initially formed to coordinate the mobilisation of rural voters ahead of the 23rd August 2023 elections, continued to function as a central hub for CCC coordination and internal discussions post-elections. It is from this platform that Chamisa decided to oust Biti and Ncube, two senior members who had been instrumental in the party’s foundation.

Critics argue that Chamisa’s decision to remove Biti and Ncube from this pivotal platform is a betrayal of trust and a testament to his unquenchable thirst for power. This action reflects a lack of respect and transparency within the party’s leadership.

Chamisa’s alleged history of betrayals doesn’t stop at Biti and Ncube. Job Sikhala, another prominent CCC member, was allegedly abandoned by Chamisa after being encouraged to incite violence during a previous period of political turmoil. When Sikhala faced legal consequences for his actions, Chamisa purportedly distanced himself, leaving Sikhala and his family to deal with the aftermath.

This pattern of behaviour has led some to label Chamisa as a heartless and self-centred leader, prioritising his own political survival over the welfare of his colleagues and the party’s unity.

The internal strife within the CCC has raised concerns about the party’s stability and unity. Biti, Ncube, and Sikhala, all founding members of the CCC and its predecessor, the MDC, have a history of forming their own political parties when disagreements arise. This has led to speculation that the CCC may be on the verge of a split, with the trio potentially pursuing their individual political agendas.

What adds to the bitterness of the situation is that Biti, Ncube, and Sikhala are seen as mentors who nurtured Chamisa’s political career. Their disillusionment at his recent actions has left many scratching their heads at the apparent betrayal.

Furthermore, Amos Chibaya, the CCC National Organising Secretary and a long-time friend of the trio, has been accused of collaborating with Chamisa to push them aside. Chibaya’s role as a trusted confidant of Chamisa has led some to view him as a personal weapon wielded by the leader to eliminate perceived threats within the party.

This internal discord within the CCC comes at a time when ZANU PF is gaining strength as recent by-elections saw ZANU PF making significant inroads into CCC strongholds, winning seven out of nine possible constituencies. ZANU PF legislators from other provinces actively supported their party’s candidates outside their respective regions, demonstrating a unified front that has attracted attention.

ZANU PF’s professionalism, unity, and clear policies have lured several opposition members, exacerbating the CCC’s woes. With the CCC facing internal strife and a resurgent ZANU PF, the political landscape in Zimbabwe remains uncertain, and the future of the CCC hangs in the balance.

By Farai D Hove | Former MDC Alliance Vice President Welshman Ncube has set off a political firestorm with a firecracker on Thursday night, unveiling what he describes as the unspoken truth within the party’s National Council.

In his statement, Ncube declared saying, “Every member of the then National Council knows what happened on 22 Jan 2022 at Mabvazuva. We ALL know the truth. We were there! Many are terrified of the Twitter warriors to acknowledge the truth publicly. We have no moral authority to oppose ZANUPF if we can’t stand for truth.”

CCC video of @nelsonchamisa which challenges @Welshman_Ncube 's Mbavazuva report on why the leadership back then in Jan 2022 did not dispute Chamisa's announcement that CCC is not at all a re branding, but an entirely new party with a new leadership. pic.twitter.com/4dgKONAPwo

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) December 15, 2023

This statement comes amid longstanding silence from Ncube on the persistent claims made by Sengezo Tshabangu, a political figure labeled a “political imposter,” who asserts himself as the CCC’s Secretary General. Notably, Ncube has refrained from condemning these falsehoods, prompting scrutiny over his commitment to transparency and truth within the political arena.

Following his failure to address the allegations against Tshabangu, Ncube has taken on the role of an arbiter, positioning himself to adjudicate between what he perceives as false and true within the party. This self-appointed role adds a layer of complexity to the internal dynamics of the MDC Alliance and the evolving narrative surrounding its members.

The recent development stems from a Twitter exchange between Ncube and CCC supporter Chris Chidarikire, where questions about Ncube’s absence from recent CCC events led to a nuanced discussion. Ncube’s response, particularly when questioned about his role in the CCC’s leadership, suggested a belief that he should hold a position, emphasizing the party’s departure from its original structure.

“As of January 22, 2022, I was vice president of MDC Alliance,” Ncube clarified, recounting the party’s resolution to reconstitute itself as CCC and participate in the March 2022 by-elections under that banner. He highlighted that the National Council didn’t resolve to dissolve itself during this transition, providing context to the intricacies of the internal restructuring.

In the face of challenges, particularly concerning Sengezo Tshabangu, Ncube defended his position assertively. When pressed to condemn Tshabangu, he retorted, “When Thokozani Khupe and Douglas Mwonzora started recalling MDC Alliance MPs and councillors, did I not, in my capacity as vice president of MDC Alliance, come out guns blazing right up to the end? In what capacity do you want me to insert myself now?”

The overarching narrative also involves accusations against MDC Alliance leader Chamisa, alleging a concentration of power and a dismantling of established structures, leading to a fallout with key figures like Biti and Ncube. Chamisa’s response, asserting that the CCC is a new party set to elect its leadership in the future, has drawn criticism, with some claiming it casts doubts on his commitment to democratic principles.

As the political drama unfolds, Welshman Ncube’s revelation and subsequent engagement in the ongoing discourse bring to light the intricate web of tensions, accusations, and power dynamics within the MDC Alliance, raising questions about the party’s cohesion and the trajectory of its leadership.

Bulawayo,

Bulawayo– The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Youth Task Force is set to escalate its protest, directing its fervor towards President Emmerson Mnangagwa, as urgent electoral reforms remain elusive. In a charged press conference led by CCC Task Force National Administrator Pashor Raphael Sibanda, key Zimbabwean institutions were accused of colluding to thwart democratic processes.

Sibanda alleged that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), the judiciary, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) are acting in concert with the ruling Zanu-PF, orchestrating what he deemed an illegitimate recall of CCC representatives from various government positions.

“Zanu-PF’s agenda to manipulate the will of the people and suppress the alternative voice is clear. The regime employs impostors, fraudsters, and criminals as political tools to dismantle our movement and pave the way for a one-party state through questionable recalls,” declared Sibanda.

The CCC Youth Task Force, in a bold move, explicitly targeted President Mnangagwa in their call for action. Sibanda stated, “We want to send a strong message to President Mnangagwa and his regime. The proposed 2024 National budget is anti-people, and we reject it unequivocally. Our MPs must debate and reject this budget, standing against policies that perpetuate the economic decay of our nation.”

Affirming the CCC’s role as a leading force, Sibanda emphasized, “As the party entrusted by the people to guide the country’s future, we declare that we are the present and future of this nation. We won’t tolerate any organization in Harare undermining the people’s will, particularly here in Bulawayo province.”

The press conference concluded with a defiant stance, as Sibanda asserted that the youth are ready to defend, advance, and secure the future for generations to come. “We demand immediate reforms from President Mnangagwa’s regime to respect and safeguard the will of the people. Failing which, the streets will become the battleground of our struggle, with Mnangagwa squarely in our sights,” he warned.- CITE

That Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa is illegitimate cannot be disputed, according to the Citizens Coalition for Change.

Addressing the media in Harare on Wednesday, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi described as worrisome the blatant violation of human rights by Mr Mnangagwa’s administration.

“We want a permanent political solution to the deepening crisis in Zimbabwe.

The economy is falling apart and the regime has failed to avert the impending catastrophe,” said Mkwananzi.

Also watch video below :

By A Correspondent| The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Zimbabwe’s prominent opposition party, is currently embroiled in internal strife following a controversial tweet by Professor Welshman Ncube, a former Vice President of the Movement for Democratic Change Alliance (MDCA) and key figure within the party.

Yesterday, Professor Ncube responded to a question on whether he is in the leadership of CCC with an answer that has sparked controversy within the movement.

“As of 22 Jan 2022, I was VP of MDCA, which on that date by resolution of its National Council resolved to reconstitute itself as CCC and participate in the March 2022 by-elections under that name. At that meeting, the National Council didn’t resolve to dissolve itself.”

This tweet has ignited a firestorm of confusion and accusations within the party, with some members alleging that Professor Ncube is bitter about the restructuring and is allegedly behind Sengezo Tshabangu’s mission to recall legislators and councillors elected on a CCC ticket.

Tshabangu’s actions have reportedly played into the hands of the ruling party, Zanu PF.

The internal conflict centers on the interpretation of the National Council’s resolutions and the direction the party should take in light of the upcoming by-elections.

While some party members argue that the National Council’s decision did not include a dissolution clause, others believe that a restructuring of this magnitude inherently implies a dissolution of the MDCA.

Sengezo Tshabangu, who has been actively involved in recalling legislators and councillors, has become a divisive figure within the CCC, with some accusing him of being a Zanu PF puppet.

The confusion surrounding the party’s internal dynamics has led to concerns among supporters and stakeholders about the unity and effectiveness of the CCC as they seek to remain a force post the Tshabangu skirmishes.

By A Correspondent| In a series of tweets, former Norton legislator Temba Mliswa expressed his concerns over the recent release of Jacob Ngarivhume, who spent six months in detention.

Mliswa described Ngarivhume’s release as the latest example of what he perceives as “unbelievable levels of persecution” in the country.

Mliswa, drawing on his own experiences, revealed that he had been arrested over 70 times.

He empathized with the pain that such ordeals bring, acknowledging that, over time, individuals can become desensitized to the point where they “don’t care what happens next,” leaving their fate in the hands of a higher power. He emphasized the need for individuals to possess a strong character to withstand such pressures, acknowledging that not everyone may be as resilient.

The former legislator appealed for professionalism among law enforcement officers and authorities, urging them not to become pawns in what he described as “painful political games.” Mliswa warned that the consequences of such actions can linger even after retirement, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on individuals’ lives.

Turning his attention to Jacob Ngarivhume, Mliswa expressed deep respect, hailing him and Job Sikhala as “true warriors” in the face of adversity. He commended their commitment to standing up for their beliefs and labeled them as true leaders who prioritize the well-being of the country over political affiliations.

Mliswa concluded his series of tweets by emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the interests of the nation over political allegiances. He welcomed Jacob Ngarivhume back, acknowledging his resilience and commitment to the greater good.

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe Indigenous International Council of Churches (ZIICC) Chairman Andrew Wutaunashe has said God is pleased President Emmerson Mnangagwa won August’s elections.

Wutaunashe, who founded and leads the Family of God (FOG) church, was speaking at Wednesday’s National Day of Prayer held at State House in Harare.

He is one of a number, especially apostolic sect leaders who openly aligned and allied with Zanu PF ahead of the contested General Elections which he said in his speech were free and fair.

“The church is thankful that God gave us free, fair, and transparent elections and we thank God that the work he started through you and the Second Republic can now continue,” said Wutaunashe.

“It has pleased God that you continue leading the nation. We continue to pray for you that you are given health and life and you are guided as you lead the nation.”

Zimbabwe’s elections were marred by anomalies that included delays in availing voting material in perceived opposition strongholds, voter intimidation, unfair access to publicly owned media, and bans on over a hundred Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) rallies in the run-up.

Election Observer Missions (EOMs), including the SADC, European Union, and The Commonwealth condemned how the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) managed the poll.

Mnangagwa showered praises on the church in a speech inundated with Bible verses and calls for an end to targeted restrictions which he said were affecting development.

“We must continue defining and controlling our destiny. This is despite the clandestine machinations of those who have sought to hinder our progress and development, including the illegal sanctions designed to cripple our economy,” said Mnangagwa.

“I commend the resilience and hard work of our people, the private sector and other stakeholders. Our nation is a testimony that in every circumstance when facing plenty or lack, abundance or need, we can do all things through Jesus Christ who gives us strength, Philippians 4 vs 12-13.

“Both our rural and urban communities must be urged to work harder in their respective areas for increased production and productivity. According to Psalms 90 vs 17, the Lord our God will establish the work of our hands.”

Government is still working on legislation and policy guidelines on devolution years after its introduction to ensure transfer of powers and responsibilities from central government to provincial and metropolitan councils and local authorities.

Local Government and Public Works minister Winston Chitando revealed this when he made his virtual presentation during a devolution workshop held in Bulawayo yesterday.

He said government decided to introduce devolution as espoused in the Constitution, adding that authorities had underscored the need for the country to fully embrace it to facilitate rapid economic growth.

“Currently, we are in the process of implementing devolution as prescribed by the Constitution. Devolution will see the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the central government to provincial councils, metropolitan councils and local authorities,” he said.

“The powers and responsibilities to be devolved include powers to formulate budgets and implementing them effectively and on time in order to produce the requisite services.

“All the decision-making powers pertaining to the planning and implementation of provincial development projects and programmes will be vested in councils themselves.”

Chitando said communities would have participatory democracy, deriving benefits from the exploitation of resources in their areas.

“The constitutional provisions on devolution are yet to be fully implemented, subsidiary legislation and policy guidelines are still being crafted. In the same vein, citizens have high expectations on the prospects of devolution to improve transparency and accountability,” Chitando said.

He said devolution had been implemented since 2019, adding that government was committed on supporting areas such as water, sanitation and hygiene and the construction or rehabilitation of roads, schools and clinics, among other projects.

“It should be noted that this has created thousands of jobs for the youths and the government has so far injected billions of dollars into these programmes and projects to date.

“These infrastructure projects being implemented have tremendously improved the living standards of the majority of the people who mainly reside in the rural areas.

“During the year, the Thematic Working Group engaged development partners, namely, the United Nations Development Programme for technical and financial support,” Chitando further noted.

However, Speaker of National Assembly during the Government of National Unity Lovemore Moyo said the delay in implementing devolution was not a coincidence, but deliberate act by the ruling Zanu PF regime.

“It’s abundantly clear that the Zanu PF regime does not fully subscribe to a nationally devolved system of governance as espoused in the Constitution,” he stated. “In fact, it prefers a centralised system of governance, which allows monopoly and looting of State resources.

“Consequently, the government’s legislative agenda excludes the enactment of an Act of Parliament that will fully operationalise devolution.”

He said government preferred to continue manipulating devolution processes.

“Accordingly, people are extremely disappointed that the government continues to pay lip service to the implementation of devolution, and there’s no comprehensive framework in place since the adoption of the new Constitution in the year 2013,” he said.

SITUATING PASHOR SIBANDA: PASHOR is not important as a person; if anything, he is a mere deviant boy who is yet to secure any form of employment in his life.

PASHOR is important as an incarnation of Triple C’s desperate rethink, buttressed by resolutions of what is termed the Southern AfricaHuman Rights Defenders’ Network which held its “summit” in Namibia from 22 to 24 November, 2023.

At that meeting – which the State covered – there was a decision to change tact towards more confrontational politics, with Triple C getting direct funding, as happened to MDC during Tsvangirai days, and to Hichilema’s UPND before the Lungu defeat.

More important, a decision was taken to found a more youthful and militant leadership for the opposition, with four names suggested as foremost. I shall have occasion to reveal them. A follow-up meeting was scheduled for 5th December, in Lusaka, Zambia.

Again, I will apprise at an appropriate time. Essentially this Western outfit is a Third Force in the making, which is why Chamisa is very worried.

It threatens to supersede him, forcing him to go suicidal through dull brawn actors like Pashor and Mkwananzi.

Of course these boys of brawn will soon learn – like the proverbial burnt child – to dread fire!!!! Ndapedza; vanzwa vatonzwa!!!!!!

By A Correspondent- The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) yesterday said it was consulting its supporters on the way forward as it mulls pulling out of Parliament in protest over the “sham” December 9 by-elections.

CCC candidates belonging to the main faction led by Nelson Chamisa were barred from contesting in the by-elections which were prompted by the party’s self-proclaimed interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu after he recalled more than a dozen CCC Members of Parliament elected in the August 23 and 24 harmonised elections.

Zanu PF bagged seven out of nine contested seats which were previously under the CCC.

CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi told journalists yesterday that the party’s highest decision-making body, the citizens national assembly, had resolved to consult its supporters on the way forward.

The assembly resolved not to recognise the unlawful conduct and outcome of the December 9 by-elections and directed the appropriate bureaus to seek the setting aside of the charade,” Mkwananzi said.

“The assembly resolved to further consult the citizens on the party’s continued participation in Parliament and local authority. There are processes that are going to be unveiled to complement the parliamentary processes.

“Importantly, we are going to see a lot of activities in constituencies that were denied the opportunity to vote for the candidates of their choice.”

He added: “There are going to be activities taking place there,  with voters demanding the right to vote and demanding their MPs back and demanding that if there is a by-election, people have a right to be voted for.”

CCC lawyer and Hatcliffe legislator Agency Gumbo said the party would also not abandon court processes despite expressing concerns over the Judiciary’s handling of its cases.

“The position that we have taken as a party is that we shall not abandon the legal processes in the quest to resolve the ongoing issues around capture of the people’s will and restoring the democratic tendency in this country,” Gumbo said.

“We believe in the courts as the institutions of the Constitution. We believe in constitutionalism and we have the right to make comments where we believe there is an overarching effect of the Executive in the Judiciary.”

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission yesterday gazetted the legislators who won in the December 9 by-elections.

Another set of by-elections is scheduled for February 3.

By A Correspondent- A murder suspect Tafadzwa Mudavanhu has been acquitted by the High Court in a case he was accused of killing a passenger.

Mudavanhu landed in the dock on allegations of killing one Spinora Kamungeremu in Budiriro three years ago.

High Court judge, Justice Rodgers Manyangadze cleared Mudavanhu at the close of State’s ruling that the case against him was too weak for a reasonable court to convict him.

It was alleged that on 19 October, 2020, he struck Kamungeremu dead with a brick at a shopping centre in the Budiriro suburb of Harare.

Prosecutors were alleging that on the day in question, Kamungeremu was at Current Shopping Centre, Budiriro 5 B.

He was in the company of his two friends, Elia Svova and Jephart Chizura.

They were in Chizura’s motor vehicle which was parked at the shopping centre.

Kamungeremu left the vehicle for a nearby supermarket.

Whilst he was away, a lorry driven by one Darlington Bvindi rammed into Chizura’s vehicle.

Chizura confronted Bvindi, who appeared to have been drinking.

An argument erupted between the two, over the latter’s alleged drunk driving.

Kamungeremu then returned to the car.

Bvindi attempted to flee before the deceased tried to block him.

Mudavanhu was accused of having picked up a brick and struck the deceased once on the head.

The deceased lost consciousness and was ferried to Parirenyatwa Hospital, where he died on 3 November 2020.

To substantiate these allegations, evidence was led from Elia Svova, Jephart Chizura, Addmore Musiza, Decent Shuche and Bernard Kaiche.

Musiza and Kaiche were police officers.

Svova said after the altercation a mob responded.

He said Mudavanhu was in front of this mob and was the one who attacked his friend.

Chizura said the name given as that of the assailant was Chamunorwa Bvumba.

He is said to have hit the deceased with a beer bottle on the head.

The officers also said it was Bvumba who assaulted the deceased.

The judge however ruled there were serious and unresolved contradictions in the key witnesses’ statements.

“This left the investigation officer, and even the OIC, in grave doubt as to whether it was the accused or Bvumba who assaulted the deceased.

“What this means is that they submitted a docket for prosecution which they did not have confidence in.

“The prosecution had no easy task adducing evidence from the various witnesses it called.

“They simply could not explain the shift from Chamunorwa to the accused as the suspect in this matter.

“The evidence became so manifestly unreliable that the only reason for putting the accused to his defence is to get him convicted through self- incrimination,”said the judge.

“This case had an unusual number of police witnesses.

“Of the five witnesses who took the witness stand, three were police officers involved in the investigation of the case in one way or the other.

“As already indicated, all the officers were puzzled as to why their supposedly key witnesses, being the two civilian witnesses, ended up saying it was the accused who assaulted the deceased with a brick, when initially they had said it was Chamunorwa who assaulted the deceased with a beer bottle on the head.”

Chamunorwa’s whereabouts, up to the time of the trial, remained unknown.

The judge also noted that Bvindi was never placed under arrest as he managed to escape soon after the offence.

By A Correspondent- Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Job Sikhala says he was never in Nyatsime, Chitungwiza, on the day violence broke out at the funeral of slain opposition party activist, Moreblessing Ali.

Sikhala, who has been in remand prison since June 2022, is being charged with inciting public violence to avenge Ali‘s murder.

He is being jointly charged with former CCC legislator Godfrey Sithole. They both appeared before Harare magistrate Tafadzwa Mhiti for trial continuation yesterday.

Sikhala and Sithole are being represented by Harrison Nkomo, Jeremiah Bhamu  and Oliver Marwa.

Sikhala challenged the State to bring witnesses who saw him driving to Nyatsime area on the day in question.

He denied instructing any member of the public to cause violence.

Sikhala said he had no idea of the identity of the owners of the vehicles which are alleged to have ferried people to Nyatsime to commit violence.

The court heard that State witnesses  are failing to prove how Sikhala was linked to alleged videos in which he is said to have incited public violence.

Sikhala questioned why the State was failing to produce the WhatsApp number which posted the videos in question.

He said State witnesses were giving different versions on the length of the videos.

The duo is being accused of inciting public violence by posting videos encouraging party supporters to avenge Ali’s death.

According to the State, they hired lorries to ferry people to Nyatsime to commit violence.

Ali’s dismembered body was found stashed in a disused well at a plot owned by the mother of her murderer, Pius Mukandi alias Jamba who was recently convicted at the High Court.

The matter was postponed to December 19 for trial continuation.

By A Correspondent| Former Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi and disqualified 2023 presidential candidate Savior Kasukuwere have both taken to social media to voice their shared concerns over China’s recent donation of weapons to Zimbabwe.

Mzembi took to X to convey his disapproval of China’s decision to supply weapons to Zimbabwe.

He drew a vivid analogy, stating, “A friend who arms you with spears and knobkerries when your house is in conflict is a very bad friend. Any loss of life, injury to your children & family, he will be held responsible!”

Mzembi further emphasized the irony of accepting weapons from a friend while simultaneously taking away the family silverware.

He suggested that this act contradicts the expectation of friendship and support, especially when the children are hopeful for intervention and reconciliation from the influential friend.

“The irony is you are taking the family silverware from the same, and you bring to the same father weapons, where the children are actually expecting you as a friend to the father who bears the greatest influence to intervene and reconcile them with their dad,” Mzembi tweeted.

Responding to Mzembi, disqualified 2023 presidential candidate Savior Kasukuwere expressed skepticism about the appropriateness of the weapon donation in the context of internal conflicts, stating, “You mean they have received new knobkerries for disciplinary process in the feuding Dzimbadzamabwe! No flowers ? but bullets and tankers.”

Kasukuwere emphasized the need for support in crucial development areas rather than the provision of weapons.

“We need support for irrigation development, technology transfer, health delivery support and not lithium for slings and bullets,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of focusing on sustainable development, technology advancement, and healthcare.

By A Correspondent- Local banks are reportedly fleecing depositors through high bank fees and exorbitant withdrawal fees of about 3% of the amount being withdrawn from 1% charged a few months ago.

Depositors are also being charged about 2.5% for withdrawals done on Automated Teller Machines.

The government is concerned that this would discourage people from making bank deposits and has warned financial institutions against the practice.

quoted the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, George Guvamatanga, as saying:

Banks please, your charges [are exorbitant]. Someone commented that we no longer have banks in this country but we now have real estate companies masquerading as banks

Banks are collecting rent from customers every month.

[Banks now say], you have an account where you pay me a rental of U$25 every month and or US$20 every month.

When you withdraw US$100 000 for example, there is a 2% -3% commission, and other charges, you walk away from the bank with US$97 000 so the question is are we encouraging depositors to bank their money?

There is always an argument that there are different accounts, there is a deposit account, and savings account but look at ways of encouraging the depositors to have their money in those accounts which do not attract this US$25 or US$15.

Guvamatanga demanded that banks slash their charges and desist from “robbing” depositors. He said:

I think the other place where there is almost robbery is with your own Visa and Master cards, those foreign cards.

You deposit your money and you attract a commission for depositing your cash.

I pledge with you to sit down within the remaining two weeks of this year and when you come back in January 2024, whilst still in office so that when you come back your charges should encourage people to put their money into the bank.

Banks are the biggest problem as far as confidence is concerned because they are all focusing on this non-funded income instead of the core business that you lend and you get interest.

I was looking at the financial results [banks], and most are now at 60%/70% non-funded income.

I know they (banks) have restructured their businesses with a 70% non-funded income that’s not achievable anywhere in the world.

It shows that the cost of banking in this country is just too high. It’s something we have not spoken about. I hope banks will look at it and make adjustments.

By A Correspondent- A Wedza bound Zupco bus, overturned along Seke road killing 1 passenger on the spot.

The accident was confirmed by the Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) information desk in a statement which read:

“Zupco white bus, Wedza bound overturned opposite MaOrange Kiosk near News Industrial Complex along Seke Rd .

At the moment information is still sketchy. We urge drivers of public service vehicles to exercise extreme caution and value lives.”

PAZ Information Desk

When respected lawyer Beatrice Mtetwa risked her life marching against the political imposter Sengezo Tshabangu she didn’t know that the CCC would ‘upset her wishes’ one day.

INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

Today, we celebrate the decision made on 10 December 1948 by the nations of the world to establish the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
This would be the framework containing rights that cannot be taken away from anyone regardless of… pic.twitter.com/TFFZ6sFndu

— Rev Dr Kenneth Mtata (@kennethmtata) December 10, 2023

OPPOSITION KILLING MULTIPARTY DEMOCRACY?

1. I believe in MULTIPARTY democracy everywhere and in my own country.

2. I know opposition parties operate under very difficult conditions.

3. But this level of incompetence by CCC is an affront to MULTIPARTY democracy.

These are… pic.twitter.com/MjvNhOS4p4

— Rev Dr Kenneth Mtata (@kennethmtata) December 13, 2023

By Dorrothy Moyo | A leading pastor has criticized Nelson Chamisa’s CCC party, asserting that their recently announced resolutions sound as if they are aligning with Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ZANU PF party. Reverend Kenneth Mtata contends that the resolutions from the CCC’s Citizens’ National Assembly resemble those indicative of a one-party state.

Mtata’s comments come at a time when voters expected CCC MPs to withdraw from parliament as a gesture of disgust over the Tshabangu recalls, potentially undermining Emmerson Mnangagwa. Contrary to expectations, the CNA has resolved to take the opposite stance.

In a post titled “OPPOSITION KILLING MULTIPARTY DEMOCRACY?,” Rev Mtata expressed his concerns, stating:

1. “I believe in MULTIPARTY democracy everywhere and in my own country.”
2. “I recognize the challenging conditions under which opposition parties operate.”
3. “However, this level of incompetence by CCC is an affront to MULTIPARTY democracy. These are not resolutions. What is going on here?”

By- The family of the late Musician Zahara has said that a jealous relative could have poisoned the musician.

It’s reported that the Loliwe hitmaker was poisoned by a family member just days after or during her lobola negotiations. 

Moreover, the family also believes that the singer was bewitched which led to her hospital stay. According to ZiMoja, a close family member opened up about what may have led to the singer’s health complications and ultimate hospital stay.

The source allegedly revealed that they suspect that Zahara was poisoned by one of her close relatives, supposedly at her lobola celebration. 

Zahara’s fiancé, Mpho Xaba, had just paid off lobola for his bride, and their families came together to celebrate. However, just days after the festivities, the Umthwalo singer was sent to the hospital.

“A relative must have gotten upset after hearing that the Xaba family had returned to pay off the outstanding amount for lobola. We suspect that Zahara was either poisoned or muthi was put into her drink.”

By-A Hail storm has blown off the roofing of a section of Whawha Prison in Gweru, exposing the jail to possible escapes.

The officer in charge of the correctional facility, Superintendent Tineyi Makeredza, told ZBC News that prisoners had to be moved to buildings that remained intact. He said:

The heavy winds came at around 2 PM. They blew away the roofs of nine cells. Around 100 prisoners had to be moved to other cells.

Our carrying capacity is 1 200 and we already had 1 460 prisoners, meaning we were overcrowded already. The situation has been worsened by this unfortunate incident.

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Midlands Province Deputy Officer Commanding, Assistant Commissioner Clemence Chigogo said:

It is a very sad situation that occurred at this prison. My officers are still quantifying the amount of loss incurred.

We also have around 20 families of officers whose houses were affected in the camp.

This is the second time we have experienced such as it also happened sometime in 2016.

We didn’t anticipate this and as such we need materials from the corporate world so that we rectify the problem.

Chigogo said that alternative accommodation for affected officers and families has since been provided.

Zimbabwe is experiencing increased rainfall activity, with most of the rainfall events violent in nature.

Weather forecasts are predicting rainfall almost daily until after Christmas for much of the country.

THE Citizens Coalitions for Change (CCC) leadership is meeting yesterday to deliberate on the way forward after the party was barred from participating in Saturday’s by-election which saw Zanu PF winning seven of the vacant nine National Assembly seats.

The ruling party also gained four council seats, three in Bulawayo and one in Masvingo, in the elections marred by poor voter turnout.

The by-elections were called after self-imposed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu recalled several legislators and councillors elected in the August 23 to 24 harmonised elections.

The main CCC faction led by Nelson Chamisa successfully renominated the recalled MPs and councillors, but Tshabangu applied to the High Court to have them removed from the ballot paper. His application was granted and the candidates failed to participate in the by-elections.

The situation has reportedly thrust the opposition party in a dilemma on the way forward as some party members are reportedly mobilising for withdrawal from Parliament in protest over the electoral fisaco.

In an interview with NewsDay, CCC organising secretary Amos Chibaya said the party’s national assembly would meet in the capital to discuss the way forward.

“The citizens national assembly is going to meet tomorrow (today) in the capital. This is where we are going to come up with a decision we are going to take and we are going to call a Press conference after the meeting,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a statement following announcement of the by-election results, CCC national spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said the party took all necessary measures for its party members to participate in the weekend polls.

“The just ended Zanu PF masterminded by-elections gave the full picture of the regime’s brazen determination to undermine democracy, shred the Constitution and deny citizens their inalienable right to vote for representatives of their choice,” he said.

“The ill-fated elections are a sham as evidenced by an unprecedented low voter turnout and unusually high number of spoilt ballots both signalling the people’s anger and growing impatience with the regime’s shenanigans.”

Mkwananzi also said the party took all necessary legal steps to ensure the inclusion of its candidates on the ballot in the by-elections.

“It is sad that more than 40 years after independence citizens have to approach the courts to be on the ballot paper and actually be denied that effectively denying citizens the choice to vote for the removed candidates,” he said, adding that CCC would file a formal complaint with the Judicial Service Commission.

In October this year, CCC ordered all its parliamentarians and councillors to temporarily disengage from Parliament and local authority business, pursuant to a resolution of citizens national assembly on the recalls.

-Newsday

Chief Justice Luke Malaba and opposition political parties could be headed for a bruising showdown after he reportedly ordered court registrars to furnish his office with information on all election-related cases prior to them being filed at the courts.

A circular seen by NewsDay written by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to registrars stipulates the procedures to be followed in managing electoral matters. Titled: Practice Direction Number 2 of 2023: Management of Electoral Matters, the circular was dated November 30 and signed by Justice Malaba.

The new development comes after the main opposition Citizens Coalitions for Change (CCC) accused the Judiciary of being captured by the ruling Zanu PF party as all judgments were going against the Nelson Chamisa-led party.

However, JSC secretary Walter Chikwanha said he was not aware of the circular when contacted for comment yesterday.

According to the circular, the registrars should immediately, and not later 24 hours, notify Malaba and issue directions on the management of the matters.

The circular purported that post-election matters arising from declaration of poll results should be finalised within two months and not more than 90 days.

“Upon filing an electoral matter, a registrar shall immediately and in any event, no later than twenty-four hours from the time of filing place the matter before the Chief Justice, Judge President or senior judge as the case may be, for giving of directions on the management of the matter. The Chief Justice, Judge President or senior judge shall forthwith issue directions on the matter,” partly read the circular.

The circular said where it was fit, the Chief Justice, Judge President or senior judge would, accordingly, direct the registrar to invite the parties to a case management meeting.

Malaba, two years ago presided over the swearing in of Judge President Justice Mary Zimba-Dube who replaced Justice George Chiweshe.

“Upon the referral of a matter to him or her in terms of paragraph 3.1 above, Chief Justice, Judge President or senior judge shall allocate the electoral matter to a judge or judges.

“In post electoral matters, that is any electoral matters arising after a declaration of the result of an election has been made, the timelines shall be such that matters are finalised within two months after filing and in any other cases, not more than ninety days from the declaration of the electoral result.

“A finalised electoral matter is one in which a final judgment has been passed and the reasons thereof, if any handed down,” the circular noted, further stating that judges dealing with electoral matters at the first instance should, in determining the timelines for hearing and finalisation of the matter, take into account the possibility of a subsequent appeal or review that may be made.

“In the pre-electoral matters, that is any electoral matters arising before an election had been conducted, the timelines shall be such that matters are finalised within a week of their filing and, insofar as it may be possible not less than twenty-one days before the election.

“In electoral matters arising during an election, matters shall be managed with the utmost urgency so as to ensure that they are disposed of insofar as it may be possible within two days of the date of filing and before the conclusion of election or the declaration of the results of the election,” the circular added.

Strict instructions on case management procedures are also highlighted in the circular which insists on strict timelines within which electoral matters are to be prosecuted.

-Newsday

Zimbabwean Thompson Chengeta (38) has been appointed to the United Nations Secretary General’s 15-member advisory board on disarmament matters.

Born in Shurugwi and growing up in the villages of Nhema, Hwinya and Chachacha, where he used to look after cattle barefooted, he has been appointed by UN Secretary-General Mr Antonio Guterres.

Mr Chengeta’s key areas of expertise and interest lie in examining the disarmament implications of military artificial intelligence, including autonomous weapon systems from a human rights law perspective.

He received his internship at the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The UN Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters was established in 1978 according to paragraph 124 of the Final Document of the Tenth Special Session of the General Assembly. It received its current mandate under General Assembly decision 54/418 of December 1, 1999.

Functions of the Board are to advise the UN Secretary-General on matters within the area of arms limitation and disarmament, including on studies and research under the auspices of the UN or institutions within the UN system, and to serve as the board of trustees of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).

In his invitation, Mr Gutteres said Mr Chengeta’s experience and knowledge will enhance the work of the Board.

“Your experience and knowledge will enhance the work of the board, both in its advisory capacity on disarmament issues and in its role as the board of trustees of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR),” said Mr Guterres.

In his response, Mr Chengeta expressed his appreciation for the honour and said he eagerly looks forward to contributing in his new capacity.

“As one whose life began in the rural areas of Shurugwi in Zimbabwe, in the villages of Nhema, Hwinya, Chachacha etc, where my little cracked-bare feet more fully followed the flock than they tracked to far away schools, this appointment is an honour and truly appreciated.

“Now that one of my key areas of expertise and interest lies in examining the disarmament implications of military AI, including autonomous weapon systems, from a human rights law perspective, I’m equally pleased that last October, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution A/C.1/78/L.56 requesting the UN Secretary-General to seek the views of states and other stakeholders on the humanitarian, legal, security, and ethical challenges posed by autonomous weapon systems,” he said.

By- Zanu PF in Harare has caused the arrest of the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change, senior official Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi, who was running as the party’s candidate for the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency in the 23-24 August 2023 harmonised elections.

 Kufahakutizwi was arrested by the Police Tuesday and charged with assault and malicious property damage, according to Prosper Mkwananzi, the party’s spokesperson. Said Mkwananzi on X:

Alert: Hon @KufaMunyaof Mabvuku-Tafara constituency is currently held at Harare Central Police and will soon be taken to Rotten Row Magistrates Court on trumped-up charges of assault and malicious damage to property.

Kufahakutizwi who was elected Member of Parliament for Mabvuku-Tafara Constituency in the 23 August 2023 harmonised elections recently called on Zimbabweans to defend themselves against Zanu PF’s disregard for the constitution.

He was commenting on the High Court order which barred him from contesting in the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency by-election to fill the vacant post which became vacant when he was recalled from Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu. He said:

They are squeezing us to the bone and pushing us towards a One-Party State.

We believe that they did this to attain a two-thirds majority so they amend the constitution and allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to be a life president.

As Zimbabweans, it is high time we stand up because we cannot continue being ruled by this heartless government. People are really angry.

They took away the life of an innocent pastor who was campaigning; if they had known that they would just take the seat they should have spared his life because now they have destroyed his family’s future.

He was referring to the murder of Tapfumaneyi Masaya, a clergyman and activist for the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, who was abducted and later found dead in Harare. The CCC claims that Masaya suffered severe injuries and his body had decomposed due to the injection of a harmful substance. 

Masaya was abducted while campaigning for Kufahakutizwi who had been recalled by Tshabangu who claims to be the CCC’s interim secretary-general.

By- Police in Harare have arrested the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change, senior official Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi, who was running as the party’s candidate for the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency in the 23-24 August 2023 harmonised elections.

 Police charged the Nelson Chamisa aide with assault and malicious property damage, according to Prosper Mkwananzi, the party’s spokesperson. Said Mkwananzi on X:

Alert: Hon @KufaMunyaof Mabvuku-Tafara constituency is currently held at Harare Central Police and will soon be taken to Rotten Row Magistrates Court on trumped-up charges of assault and malicious damage to property.

Kufahakutizwi who was elected Member of Parliament for Mabvuku-Tafara Constituency in the 23 August 2023 harmonised elections recently called on Zimbabweans to defend themselves against Zanu PF’s disregard for the constitution.

He was commenting on the High Court order which barred him from contesting in the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency by-election to fill the vacant post which became vacant when he was recalled from Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu. He said:

They are squeezing us to the bone and pushing us towards a One-Party State.

We believe that they did this to attain a two-thirds majority so they amend the constitution and allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to be a life president.

As Zimbabweans, it is high time we stand up because we cannot continue being ruled by this heartless government. People are really angry.

They took away the life of an innocent pastor who was campaigning; if they had known that they would just take the seat they should have spared his life because now they have destroyed his family’s future.

He was referring to the murder of Tapfumaneyi Masaya, a clergyman and activist for the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, who was abducted and later found dead in Harare. The CCC claims that Masaya suffered severe injuries and his body had decomposed due to the injection of a harmful substance. 

Masaya was abducted while campaigning for Kufahakutizwi who had been recalled by Tshabangu who claims to be the CCC’s interim secretary-general.

By A Correspondent- The leadership of the main opposition, the Citizens Coalitions for Change (CCC) leadership, met today to deliberate on the way forward after the party was barred from participating in Saturday’s by-election which saw Zanu PF winning seven of the vacant nine National Assembly seats.
The ruling party also gained four council seats, three in Bulawayo and one in Masvingo, in the elections marred by poor voter turnout.

The by-elections were called after self-imposed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu recalled several legislators and councillors elected in the August 23 to 24 harmonised elections.
The main CCC faction led by Nelson Chamisa successfully renominated the recalled MPs and councillors, but Tshabangu applied to the High Court to have them removed from the ballot paper. His application was granted and the candidates failed to participate in the by-elections.
The situation has reportedly thrust the opposition party in a dilemma on the way forward as some party members are reportedly mobilising for withdrawal from Parliament in protest over the electoral fisaco.
In an interview with NewsDay, CCC organising secretary Amos Chibaya said the party’s national assembly would meet in the capital to discuss the way forward.
“The citizens national assembly is going to meet tomorrow (today) in the capital. This is where we are going to come up with a decision we are going to take and we are going to call a Press conference after the meeting,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a statement following announcement of the by-election results, CCC national spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said the party took all necessary measures for its party members to participate in the weekend polls.
“The just ended Zanu PF masterminded by-elections gave the full picture of the regime’s brazen determination to undermine democracy, shred the Constitution and deny citizens their inalienable right to vote for representatives of their choice,” he said.
“The ill-fated elections are a sham as evidenced by an unprecedented low voter turnout and unusually high number of spoilt ballots both signalling the people’s anger and growing impatience with the regime’s shenanigans.”
Mkwananzi also said the party took all necessary legal steps to ensure the inclusion of its candidates on the ballot in the by-elections.
“It is sad that more than 40 years after independence citizens have to approach the courts to be on the ballot paper and actually be denied that effectively denying citizens the choice to vote for the removed candidates,” he said, adding that CCC would file a formal complaint with the Judicial Service Commission.
In October this year, CCC ordered all its parliamentarians and councillors to temporarily disengage from Parliament and local authority business, pursuant to a resolution of citizens national assembly on the recalls.
-Newsday