By- The opposition CCC’s President, Nelson Chamisa, said they have blocked Zanu PF from stealing the Wednesday elections by deploying polling agents at all the 12,374 polling stations.

Chamisa announced this Sunday while addressing party supporters at the White City Sports Stadium in Bulawayo.
He confidently stated that the party would have the election results by August 24.
Polling agents play a crucial role in ensuring fair elections. They are appointed representatives of political parties tasked with monitoring polling stations. In the 2018 elections, the MDC Alliance, under Chamisa’s leadership, encountered challenges due to the absence of agents at certain polling stations. This resulted in allegations of rigging, but without their presence, the party was unable to substantiate the claims. Polling agents act as vigilant observers, safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and enabling parties to address any irregularities or concerns that may arise.
Chamisa also introduced David Coltart, a former Education Minister and council candidate for the party. Coltart, a seasoned lawyer, pledged to address pressing issues in the local government authority of Bulawayo. These issues include corruption, water scarcity, violation of vendors’ rights, corrupt tender allocations, and resident abuse. With his legal expertise, Coltart expressed his commitment to reviewing council by-laws that do not prioritize the public’s interests.

By- The CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, has announced that his party had deployed election agents to all 12,374 polling stations.

Chamisa announced Sunday while addressing party supporters at the White City Sports Stadium in Bulawayo.
He confidently stated that the party would have the election results by August 24.
Polling agents play a crucial role in ensuring fair elections. They are appointed representatives of political parties tasked with monitoring polling stations. In the 2018 elections, the MDC Alliance, under Chamisa’s leadership, encountered challenges due to the absence of agents at certain polling stations. This resulted in allegations of rigging, but without their presence, the party was unable to substantiate the claims. Polling agents act as vigilant observers, safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and enabling parties to address any irregularities or concerns that may arise.
Chamisa also introduced David Coltart, a former Education Minister and council candidate for the party. Coltart, a seasoned lawyer, pledged to address pressing issues in the local government authority of Bulawayo. These issues include corruption, water scarcity, violation of vendors’ rights, corrupt tender allocations, and resident abuse. With his legal expertise, Coltart expressed his commitment to reviewing council by-laws that do not prioritize the public’s interests.

By James Gwati- The government has arrested and deported a well-known Zanu PF government critic and London University Professor Stephen Chan.

Chan arrived on a tourist visa in Zimbabwe, was arrested upon touching down at Robert Mugabe International Airport from Zambia, and deported back to Zambia.

The state media accused Professor Chan of coming to train opposition insurgents ahead of Wednesday’s elections.

The academic is also a karate sensei and heads the Jindokai Karate and Kobudo Association.

“He was seeking to be in the country as part of a broader plan by the opposition to trigger mayhem if the poll results are not in their favour,” reports the Herald, a Zanu PF government propaganda publication.

By A Correspondent- A 37 year old Plumtree man is in trouble after he was caught skinning his grandfather’s goat in his bedroom hut.

The matter came to light at Plumtree magistrates courts last Thursday when Mbakisi Ncube appeared before magistrate Joshua Nembaware, facing stock theft charges.

He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody to August 29.

The court alleged on August 23, Themba Ncube (82) reported to have lost his goats.

His granddaughter, Shiela Ndlovu, and others embarked on a search and overheard the goat’s bleats inside Mbakisi’s room.

She peeped through the door and saw the accused trying to skin the goat.

They filed a police report leading to his arrest.

Arnold Mudekunye represented the state.

By A Correspondent- Former Mozambican president Joachim Chissano on Saturday attended President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s star rally in Midlands amid reports he would also attend opposition CCC leader Nelson Chamisa’s own rally in a bid to get a better perspective of Zimbabwe’s political landscape ahead of Wednesday’s elections.

Chissano is the special facilitator of for Zimbabwe’s debt and arrears clearance programme sponsored by the African Development Bank.

His duties involve working to end the country’s long-standing standoff with its creditors and the international community.

During a high-level conference on Zimbabwe’s bid to end its protracted debt crisis in May, Chissano told Mnangagwa the country’s major enemies included governance, rule of law, human rights, and freedom of expression.

Mozambique’s leader between 1986 and 2005 emphasized the importance of Mnangagwa’s administration leveling the playing field and implementing electoral reforms to ensure free and fair elections.

Opponents have accused the Zanu-PF led administration of failure to introduce election reforms recommended by SADC, the AU, and the Monthlante Commission, which probed the 2018 post-election protests and the resultant killing of civilians.

Presidential spokesperson George Charamba said through his social media handle that Chissano had requested to attend both Zanu-PF and CCC rallies in the spirit of ensuring Zimbabwe holds peaceful, free, and fair elections as a precursor to debt resolution.

“President of Mozambique, Cde Joachim Chissano is attending the Midlands Rally.

“As both an elder statesman and a champion on Zimbabwe Debt Resolution, the former President requested that he attends two rallies: one for Zanu-PF, another for Triple C.

“The Zimbabwean Govt acceded to the request,” said Charamba.

Chissano is expected to attend Chamisa’s penultimate Bulawayo rally on Sunday or the Harare one Monday.

Chamisa, according to poll pundits and physical support on the ground, is President Mnangagwa’s biggest opponent.

The ruling Zanu-PF has intensified its capture of the creative arts industry, which plays a pivotal role of social commentary, by placing many artistes under the party wings.

This comes after President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s sons Sean and Emmerson Jnr hosted a lavish luncheon for a number of artistes that included Enzo Ishall, Holy Ten, Michael Maggz, Doc Vikela, Bhutisi, Poptain, Levelz, Fantan and many more.

However it was Ricky Fire’s attendance at the luncheon that shocked many considering that the dancehall chanter was recently singing against the Mnangagwa regime.

Ricky Fire used to tour Zimbabwe and performed at almost all Citizens for Coalition for Change rallies head of the March by-elections in 2022.

As if it was not enough, Ricky Fire went on to produce a song dubbed Kudya Yellow, which features the party’s leader Nelson Chamisa on the chorus.

Faceless characters threatened him with death if he continued supporting Chamisa.

The dancehall artiste took to his Facebook page to share a screenshot of messages threatening him after his association with Chamisa’s party from one user with the username Nyatsimba Mutota.

The message reads: “Cde, I’m giving you 24 hours to issue a press statement clarifying whether you are an artiste or a politician. And I want you to consider yourself warned!! Don’t try to deceive people hiding behind music whilst you are a sanctions beggar, the countdown has begun!!”

Speaking to the Standard Style following the threats, the artiste’s manager Jayden Mutopa said they won’t be threatened into silence.

“Apart from being a musician Ricky Fire is a citizen of this country who has a constitutional right to associate himself with a party of his choice. Yes he performed there because it was part of his mandate as an artiste and entertainer to do so, it’s his job to perform, even if Zanu-PF books him to perform we will go, it’s our job and we were only doing our job,” he said.

“About threats we are not worried as they came from ghost accounts and as citizens of Zimbabwe the law should protect us,” he said.

Holy Ten recently joined the bandwagon and publicly put his weight behind Mnangagwa in two separate videos that have since gone viral.

Today Holy Ten will be sharing the stage with Sandra Ndebele who is running for a council seat in Bulawayo under the ruling party ticket.

In pictures that have gone viral, the artistes are seen feasting with Mnangagwa’s sons.

The Mnangagwas are linked to Scarfemore Records, a record label that has been financing many urban artistes. Sources privy to the developments said the Mnangagwas, through Scarfemore Records, were the ones controlling day-to-day operations at Chillspot Records hence artistes from there are booked on events linked to Zanu-PF.

Scarfemore Records are reported to be funding Holy Ten’s lavish lifestyle, his music and his record label Samanyanga Sounds.

Fantan and Levels were in 2021 sentenced to six months in prison alongside Tinashe Chanachimwe popularly known as Boss Dhama for organising an unsanctioned super Covid-19 spreader musical concert on New Year’s Eve, in breach of government regulations.

They were later freed on $10,000 bail a High Court judge. It is reported that Scarfemore Records was instrumental in the release of the trio.

Music critics have argued that the capture of the arts industry by politicians has led to the dwindling of Zim dancehall, a genre which hogged the limelight with social commentary lyrics that spoke about the impoverishment of the Zimbabwean ghettos and also the crushing of the economy. However lyrics anchor on sex, drugs, and alcohol.

Last week, in a desperate bid to cleanse its image in the international arena, the Zimbabwean government sucked in South African celebrities under the guise of “appreciating the true Zimbabwean image”.

Pearl Thusi, Sello Maake ka Ncube and Sonia Mbele arrived in the country last week at the invitation of the Ministry of Information in very murky circumstances.

The South African trio were part of Mnangagwa plan to shrug off a bad reputation which is replete with human rights abuses, corruption and cronyism which have dogged his administration.

The South African celebrities were draped in Mnangagwa’s trademark scarf, endorsing the Zanu-PF leader.

The government-sponsored advertising campaign called “The True Zimbabwe Tour,” which also features journalists from a few Sadc countries, including Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Tanzania.    

Thusi, who once stood firm with Zimbabweans during the #ZimbabweanLivesMatter in 2020, went on to claim that she didn’t know that her visit to Zimbabwe was going to be politicized following social media backlash.

In a social media video, Thusi said she did not know that the visit was a political gimmick.

Other entertainment stars who have been brought to Zimbabwe and met Mnangagwa are D’Banj, Floyd Mayweather, Davido, Koffie Olomide, DJ Tira among others.

 The Nigerian music star D’Banj’s visit which was facilitated by Mnangagwa’s ally, the controversial church leader ‘Prophet’ Passion Java came at a time he was still being investigated over fraudulent activities back in Nigeria.

However, International star Burna Boy, who once endorsed the #ZimbabweanLivesMatter hashtag in 2020, refused to endorse Mnangagwa by wearing a Zanu-PF scarf in exchange of money when he came to Zimbabwe.

The Nigerian singer was in Harare last year for a performance at Belgravia Sports Club.

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) yesterday started deploying polling officers to different polling stations across the country ahead of Wednesday’s harmonised elections after they completed their training exercise.

Police have also said they will be equal to the task of ensuring peace prevail during and after the elections urging people to go home and resume their duties after voting.

The deployment of polling officers mainly drawn from the civil service is being done simultaneously with the distribution of ballot papers and other material needed during the election process.

The officers will man the 12 370 polling stations established countrywide.

ZEC chief elections officer Mr Utloile Silaigwana confirmed to Sunday News in an interview yesterday that all was set for the Wednesday harmonised elections saying the deployment would be done in a phased approach. 

“The deployment of polling officers begins today (yesterday) soon after completing training but it is a process and is dependent on the size of the province. Some have already started deploying while others will commence deployment tomorrow (today). As they do so their election material also goes with them.

“We have taken it as a strategy that we deploy materials and officers to those provinces that are very far and wide in terms of their geographical distance. Provinces like Matebeleland North and Midlands and so on, we will be deploying in phases,” said Mr Silaigwana.

He said their last training also included political party election agents who they wanted to appreciate the polling processes adding that it was not mandatory for political parties to send their polling agents.

“Our training was also phased, we started with constituency election officers then followed with ward election officers. We then trained presiding officers and this last training we just completed was for polling officers where we also invited political parties’ election agents so that they appreciate the polling process. However, this was not a must, we just extended our invitation and some attended but others did not show up. Our aim is to ensure that all polling officers are at their respective stations by Monday,” said Mr Silaigwana.

He said in terms of the Electoral Act and for purposes of the 2023 elections, Minting and Printing Company of Zimbabwe (MPCZ) was given the mandate to print all ballot papers to be used.

He said a total of 7 126 600 presidential ballot papers have been printed.

“Seven million and ninety-eight thousand, seven hundred and fifty (7 098 750) National Assembly ballot papers and six million eight hundred and sixty-one thousand, six hundred and fifty (6 861 650) local authority ballot papers have been printed for the conduct of elections on the 23 August 2023,” he said.

He clarified that the number of ballot papers printed for each of the three elections was different because with respect to the National Assembly election an independent candidate for Gutu West Nation Assembly constituency passed away and the election would be conducted on a later date.

Zanu-PF held its last star rally at Tongogara growth point in Shurugwi yesterday, which many believe was meant to pay homage to the party’s chief benefactor, controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.

Apart from the rally, President Emmerson Mnangagwa also commissioned several projects in the area, which were spearheaded by Tagwirei. Tagwirei hails from Hankie, a stone’s throw away from the growth point, named after the late Zanla commander Josiah Magama Tongogara.

The Sakunda Holdings boss has been the chief benefactor of Mnangagwa’s rallies ahead of the elections slated for Wednesday with a member of the ruling party’s election fundraising committee claiming that the fuel magnate was pumping several thousands of dollars per week for the rallies.

The Zanu-PF fundraising committee is chaired by Phillip Chiyangwa and other members of the committee are Tafadzwa Musarara, Scott Sakupwanya, Zodwa Mkandla, Antony Pote and Everasto Mudhikwa.

Mnangagwa commissioned  the refurbished Tongogara Clinic, which was built by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces while Sakunda Holdings donated medical equipment worth US$400 000.

Sakunda Holdings also donated a brand new fully equipped ambulance for the clinic, drilled a borehole and offered a resident doctor whose salary for one year will be paid by Arundel Hospital.

Arundel Hospital, a state-of-the-art health facility in Harare, is also owned by Tagwirei.

Last year Tagwirei embarked on a multi-million road project that links Donga business centre (Chachacha and Lalapanzi in Chirumanzu district) to ease transport woes for villagers in Shurugwi North.

Part of the completed project — a 17km stretch from Chachacha to Tongogara growth point — was opened to the motoring public before Christmas last year.

Mnangagwa also commissioned part of the completed road, attributing the success to his administration.

Shurugwi district development coordinator Romeo Shangwa in an interview with this publication early this year confirmed that the road project was being funded by the Sakunda Holdings boss.

Tongogara growth point is one of the several rural service centres that were accorded growth point status by the government shortly after independence.

With the new status, villagers expected a boom in business and a better life, but that has not been the case.

Instead, the centre is slowly turning into a ghost settlement.

Similar growth points such as Mupandawana in Gutu, Murambinda in Buhera, Mutora (Nembudziya) in Gokwe North, Murewa, Jerera in Zaka, Mutoko and Gokwe are now fully-developed business centres with several amenities.

Despite Shurugwi being endowed with mineral resources, for the past three decades, no meaningful development has taken place at Tongogara, save for a high school, clinic and Grain Marketing Board depot, which receives sporadic supplies of grain and agricultural inputs.

Even development ventures like the Tongogara Community Share Ownership Scheme and later the Shurugwi Development Trust have failed to stimulate development in this mineral rich community.

Both ventures are fronted by Shurugwi traditional leaders — chiefs Banga, Ndanga and Nhema who work with local authorities and government.

“It is surprising that we wait for an individual to come and construct a road and a clinic when we have so many resources as a district,” said a villager.

However, a Zanu-PF fundraising committee member justified the party’s choice of Shurugwi as the last venue for the campaign.

“It was befitting for the last rally to be held in Mnangagwa’s Midlands Province and it was also poignant for Shurugwi in particular to host it because Tagwirei has been so generous, oiling the party from his pockets,” said the committee member.

Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa confirmed that the party’s campaign was funded by local businessmen without mentioning Tagwirei’s name.

“Zanu-PF is a rich party, yes; we have successful businesspeople who have been sponsoring our rallies,” Mutsvangwa said.

“They are products of our successful Zanu-PF policies so they support where their bread is buttered.

“We have young people who are doing wonders in mining and others are producing tobacco in areas like Magunje.”

Witwatersrand University-based political analyst Romeo Chasara said Tagwirei’s close ties to the ruling elite and his alleged involvement in corrupt practices raised concerns about state capture in the country.

“Tagwirei’s significant influence over key sectors of the economy, such as fuel and agriculture, has allowed him to shape policy decisions and benefit from opaque procurement processes,” Chasara said.

“This level of control and influence undermines the principles of transparency, accountability, and fair competition, and hinders the country’s progress towards economic reform.”

The Sakunda boss has been criticised for his alleged involvement in corrupt practices, particularly in the fuel and agriculture sectors.

His company, Sakunda Holdings, has been accused of receiving preferential treatment in government contracts and benefiting from opaque procurement processes.

Tagwirei’s close relationship with influential political figures has raised suspicions of undue influence and cronyism.

Critics argue that his financial support to Zanu-PF comes with strings attached, among them shaping policy decisions.-standard

By A Correspondent- Nineteen trainee police officers who wantonly attacked members of the public on Friday evening are expected back in court tomorrow.

The police recruits allegedly sought revenge, attacking people in Harare’s Central Business District (CBD), after suspected touts attacked two of their colleagues.

The 19 initially appeared at Harare Magistrates’ Court yesterday, where the State successfully applied for a warrant for further detention.

Magistrate Mrs Yeukai Dzuda granted the application after investigating officers requested more time to have the 19 in custody, pending further investigations.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations are underway.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that investigations are currently underway in connection with unruly conduct exhibited by some police recruits in Harare’s CBD on August 18, 2023, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.

“Nineteen police recruits have been arrested and will face the due process of the law,” he said.

The Commissioner-General of Police does not condone violent behaviour by any police officer and assures the public of the professionalism of police as they interact with the people of Zimbabwe and visitors,” he said.

Assistant Commissioner Nyathi said police will reveal more details pertaining to the incident after investigations.

According to sources, the attack on the public came after two of the trainee police officers were attacked by suspected touts.

The two recruits then went back to the police camp and mobilised their fellow recruits.

They later returned to the CBD, where they started indiscriminately attacking members of the public.

“The recruits were on pay break, and they went into town where two of them were attacked by certain men,” said an anonymous source.

Zanu-PF is wantonly trashing the country’s supreme law, the Constitution, that prohibits traditional leaders from engaging in partisan politics after it enlisted five village headmen as its polling agents in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West province.

The headmen under scrutiny are namely; Takasvika Chishiri (Nyamahapi), Paul Brahim (Kasimure), Maki Kachamaedza (Dambanzara), Yeukai Mupanedengu and Special Brahim (Kamukombe).

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) aspiring Hurungwe East parliamentarian, Blessing Mandava raised concern over the subtle rigging mechanism, which he has since flagged the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

“Rigging of elections is already underway and its coming in many forms. The appointment of headmen as polling agents is definitely rigging by Zanu-PF as that is how they are going to intimidate villagers claiming they will be watching them within polling stations,” said Mandava.

“I have raised a complaint with a Mrs Dube who is the ZEC Ward 6 elections officer, who only noted the issue and said she will forward it to the command centre.”

Contacted for comment by NewZimbabwe.com, ZEC Mashonaland West provincial elections officer, Austin Ndhlovu professed ignorance of any provision of the Electoral Act barring traditional leaders from performing duties as polling agents.

“There is nowhere explicitly written that traditional leaders cannot be this or that. I don’t have that at law that traditional leaders have their limitations in terms of electoral participation in electoral law, l will have consult further,” said Ndhlovu.

“What l don’t really know is whether headmen can be election agents, l don’t want to lie and l haven’t encountered that in law, but what l know they have electoral rights to vote for whoever they want.”

The provincial elections boss advised Mandava and other such aggrieved candidates to present cases at multi-party liaison committees at ward level and escalate issues to higher platforms if dissatisfied by outcomes.

Ndhlovu reiterated other laws might preclude headmen and Chiefs from political participation, and not explicitly the Electoral Act, which gives scope of his work.

Constitution of Zimbabwe section 281 and the Traditional Leaders’ Act section 45 and 46 outline what traditional leaders ought to do and ought not to do in respect of politics and elections.

However, traditional leaders often wantonly disregard laws, mostly with impunity.

In principle, traditional leaders must not be members of any political party or in any way participate in partisan

politics; act in a partisan manner; further the interests of any political party or cause; or violate the fundamental rights and freedoms of any person.

In May 2018, precedence was set when the Elections Resource Centre (ERC) successfully sued Chief Fortune Charumbira over unconstitutional utterances pledging support to Zanu-PF.

The court instructed him to retract the statement, an order he did not abide by. Instead, he has uttered more statements to the same effect with no consequence.

Prior, Masvingo High Court Judge, Garainesu Mawadze in 2015 made a ruling prohibiting traditional leaders from making political statements and declaring allegiance to any political party.

 By A Correspondent- Harare man was last week ordered to pay maintenance for his unborn child.

A pregnant Judith Mahachi told Harare magistrate Ayanda Dhlamini that her estranged husband, William Kwashira, has been neglecting her.

They also have a two-year-old daughter.

“The respondent owns a company and is also a mechanic,” Mahachi said.

He has not been providing for us after I decided to end the marriage.

“I later found out that I am pregnant, but he has refused to help in any way.”

Mahachi demanded US$160 for her upkeep, but Kwashira said he could only afford US$30.

Kwashira was ordered to pay US$80 starting this month.

By- Zanu PF is battling with factionalism coming from potential candidates to succeed President Emmerson Mnangagwa after Wednesday elections, a top researcher has said.

Mnangagwa, who took over from the late Robert Mugabe after a military coup six years ago, will be running for his second and final full term in office.
The 80-year-old ruler has relied heavily on a shadowy ‘non-governmental organisation’ known as Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) for his re-election campaign because of divisions in Zanu PF, which nearly cost him the 2018 elections.
FAZ, which is said to have links with the Central Intelligence Organisation, ran Zanu PF’s primary elections, where the majority of the sitting MPs fell by the wayside amid widespread reports of vote rigging.
Clionadh Raleigh, executive director of the Armed Conflict location and Event Data Project (ACLED) and a senior professor of political violence and geography in the School of Global Studies at the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom, said Mnangagwa’s succession was a potential powder keg.
In a paper titled: Political succession and intra-party divisions: Examining the potential of violence in Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections published on Friday, Raleigh said Mnangagwa’s age and the presidential term limits were an albatross on Zanu PF.
“As aforementioned, in Zimbabwe’s current political climate, there is a high level of economic and social malaise,” she wrote.
“These issues are mirrored in Zanu PF where many factions exist and fewer resources are being shared around and the churn of opportunities and positions is non-existent.
“But crucially: this is likely to be Mnangagwa’s last election, as he has reached 80 years. Who will come next?
“There are no more ‘original’ war veterans, and waiting in the wings are those whom Mnangagwa purged from the party and state (for example, Saviour Kasukuwere, a former Zanu PF heavyweight and leader of the late Mugabe-era faction ‘Generation 40’ who attempted to shoehorn Grace Mugabe into power).”
Kasukuwere was banned from running as an independent in Wednesnday’s election because he has been out of the country for more than 18 months.
Raleigh predicted that jostling for the top post in Zanu PF would be intense.
“The end of this reign is important because the jostling in Zanu-PF elite circles will be fierce and directed towards building loyalty for the presumed successor (whomever that may be),” she added.
“With any change in government, the Zanu PF political machine will be recalibrated. If that is happening too early (as in, during this election), then the outcome for the top of the Zanu PF hierarchy is in question.
“This is a present concern because if Zanu PF cannot depend on local party apparatchiks and local administrators to return the ‘right results’ and for the ‘right candidate’, then they risk losing this election.
“In a repeat of 2008, those at the Zanu PF centre will go to extreme lengths to hold onto power, and this leads to inflated risks to local administrators and voters living in ‘defecting’ areas.”
There have been reports that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is angling for Mnangagwa’s post, but the former army commander has said he does not habour such ambitions.
Meanwhile, Mnangagwa yesterday told Zanu PF supporters at his last campaign rally before the elections in Shurugwi that he was confident of victory and had invited international observers because he has nothing to hide.
“We have nothing to hide,” he said.
“We have invited 45 countries, 17 regional and international bodies and all consulates to observe our elections.
“We also invited Southern African Development Community countries.”
A number of election observers arrived in the country last week.
The Commonwealth is also observing the elections for the second time since 2018.
Mnangagwa, however, told observers from foreign countries not to have a biased mind.
“Please do not come to become observers with foregone conclusions from your countries,” he said.
“We have open minds and we are a peaceful country.
“It is us and not any other organisation, which can come to teach us how to run peaceful elections.
“We are not doing this to please anybody. It is us who can run free and fair elections.”
The European Union Elections Observer Mission (EU EOM) yesterday castigated what it said were attempts to discredit its work after state-controlled media claimed it had bribed local journalists with whisky and groceries.
EU EOM chief observer Fabio Massimo Castaldo said the reports were “defamatory” and “unfounded”.
“The EU EOM has taken note of previous unacceptable attempts to discredit the mission. The EU EOM sees these articles as blatant disinformation of the Zimbabwean public,” Castaldo said.
“They reflect a continued effort to undermine the EU EOM and credible election observation.” Standard

By A Correspondent- A Kwekwe man went berserk and stabbed his ex-lover who had turned down his offer to reconcile as well as his friend who tried to intervene.

The 23-year-old woman and the friend whose names were not supplied, are both battling for life at a hospital after being stabbed by Andrew Maphosa (20).

Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident which occurred on 14 August 2023 around 7PM.

“Maphosa was in Mbizo 11 in the company of a friend when they met his ex-girlfriend. Maphosa tried to convince the woman that they rekindle their affair, which she turned down, resulting in a misunderstanding between the two,” said Inspector Mahoko.

Maphosa reportedly drew a knife and stabbed the ex-lover several times all over the body.

The male friend tried to intervene and he was also stabbed on the neck and fell unconscious.

Maphosa, who fled the scene, was later arrested and investigations are ongoing.

By A Correspondent- Zanu PF heavyweight, Christopher Mutsvangwa, believes that the presence of solar panels and boreholes in rural areas demonstrates prosperity in Zimbabwe. He claims that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has actively pursued practical initiatives for prosperity.

In response to Blessed Mhlanga’s inquiry about the distribution of benefits from gold production, Mutsvangwa pointed out the visible signs of economic progress, such as young people building houses and investing in boreholes through their earnings from gold. He emphasized that denying this reality would be unjustifiable when evidence of prosperity, such as solar panels and improved living conditions, can be observed in rural areas. Watch the full interview here.

During the Heroes Day celebrations, Mhlanga stated that the majority of the population would dispute the extent of economic progress claimed by Mutsvangwa for Zimbabwe. He said:

Mutsvangwa responded by saying:

You just need to go and see solar panels in rural panels, you see houses being built by young people, you see they’re drilling boreholes because they’re making money. They are making money out of gold, why do you want to deny the reality?

Mhlanga alleged that the Gold Mafia, not the general population, benefits from gold production in Zimbabwe. In contrast, Mutsvangwa stated that the nation is making progress towards prosperity, honouring the aspirations of fallen heroes. He encouraged both local and foreign investors to consider opportunities in lithium, platinum, and gold. Mutsvangwa denied reports of starvation, emphasizing that Zimbabwe is exploring possibilities to export grain to other nations.
Mutsvangwa also said Gold Mafia was a creation of those offended by Zimbabwe’s ability to stabilise the macroeconomy and the local currency.

By- The police have arrested nineteen trainee police officers for attacking members of the public.

The nineteen caused public violence on Friday evening and are expected back in court tomorrow.
The police recruits allegedly sought revenge, attacking people in Harare’s Central Business District (CBD), after suspected touts attacked two of their colleagues.
The 19 initially appeared at Harare Magistrates’ Court yesterday, where the State successfully applied for a warrant for further detention.
Magistrate Mrs Yeukai Dzuda granted the application after investigating officers requested more time to have the 19 in custody, pending further investigations.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations are underway.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that investigations are currently underway in connection with unruly conduct exhibited by some police recruits in Harare’s CBD on August 18, 2023, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.
“Nineteen police recruits have been arrested and will face the due process of the law,” he said.
“The Commissioner-General of Police does not condone violent behaviour by any police officer and assures the public of the professionalism of police as they interact with the people of Zimbabwe and visitors,” he said.
Assistant Commissioner Nyathi said police will reveal more details pertaining to the incident after investigations.
According to sources, the attack on the public came after two of the trainee police officers were attacked by suspected touts.
The two recruits then went back to the police camp and mobilised their fellow recruits.
They later returned to the CBD, where they started indiscriminately attacking members of the public.
“The recruits were on pay break, and they went into town where two of them were attacked by certain men,” said an anonymous source.
-Sunday Mail

HARARE, 20 August 2023 – The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to the Republic of Zimbabwe deployed today 44 long-term observers (STOs) across the country. The group is the third contingent, following the core team and 46 long-term observers, which have arrived in Zimbabwe earlier in July.

“The short-term observers will cover all ten provinces in both, urban and rural areas. Together with the other EU EOM observers they will be the eyes and the ears of the mission on election day during polling, counting and collation of results. They will also pay attention to the election environment”, said Chief Observer Fabio Massimo Castaldo.

Prior to their deployment, the short-term observers received a two-day in depth briefing in Harare on the electoral background, voting procedures, the political environment, code of conduct and other topics.

For election day the EU EOM will be reinforced by a Delegation of the European Parliament and diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe. In total, the EU EOM will comprise about 150 observers from all 27 member states, as well as Canada, Norway and Switzerland.

“EU observers will be visiting many polling stations from the opening to the closing of the polls and follow also the collation of results. They will however not interfere in the process. They are here to observe and not to supervise”, said Mr. Castaldo, adding: “Although election day is an important element of our observation, the EU EOM is in Zimbabwe to assess all aspects of the elections over the entire duration of the process allowing for an impartial assessment of the entire election process.”

Chief Observer Castaldo will present the initial findings and conclusions of the mission two days after the elections. The EU EOM will remain in Zimbabwe to observe also the post electoral environment and follow possible appeals and complaints. A final report, with recommendations for future elections, will be published some two months after election day.

By A Correspondent- Foreign election observer missions should be open-minded and must not come with predetermined conclusions to discredit Wednesday’s polls, President Mnangagwa has said.

He said this yesterday while addressing tens of thousands of ZANU PF supporters at the ruling party’s final provincial star rally at the Tongogara Business Centre, Shurugwi, in his home province of Midlands.

“We have invited observer groups from SADC, from the continent and from beyond,” he said.

As I have said to all the observer missions, please do not come to observe us with foregone conclusions from your homes or your countries. Come with an open mind. We are a peaceful people.

“I am happy that all our political parties that are contesting in the current election have adhered to peaceful electoral processes.

“I am happy that so far, almost everybody has promised no violence; this is what it should be.

“However, we, as the ZANU PF party, are at the forefront of preaching peace and condemning violence. We say no to any form of violence. We say no to any hate speech; we are children of one family.”

Observers, he said, should stick to their mandate and not abuse their privileges.

“We have nothing to hide,” he continued.

“We have invited 45 countries, 17 continental regional bodies, as well as all embassies and consulates.

“In particular, we have invited every single member of our SADC body; they are our sisters and brothers; whatever we do, we share.

We have a similar history. We were all colonised and we fought for our independence and democracy.

“We welcome these election observer missions to our great country. They must enjoy our hospitality; our people are very kind. I call upon the observer missions to keep to their terms of reference in the code of conduct of their work, because Zimbabwe remains a sovereign country.”

No one, said the President, was qualified to lecture ZANU PF about democracy, because the party fought for 16 years to bring democracy, independence, freedom and sovereignty to Zimbabwe.

“We are entrenching democracy, constitutionalism, good governance and human rights,” he said.

“I want to make this clear: No one is qualified to teach us democracy. We were never given our democracy, our freedom on a silver platter.

“We spent 16 solid years of armed struggle . . . an armed struggle for us to become independent.

“So, we were fighting for freedom and independence.

“So, no one should assume any role to teach us democracy, because we fought for it and acquired it ourselves.”

Despite illegal sanctions imposed on the country by the West, said President Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe continues to forge ahead to fulfil its developmental aspirations.

“For the last three years, our economy has been growing at a rate above 5 percent.

“We are one of the fastest-growing economies in our region.”

He urged the people to shame those wishing for violence in this year’s polls.

“Let us shame them by being peaceful; let us shame them by being non-violent.

The President paid special tribute to former Mozambique President Joaquim Chissano, who attended the rally.

Former President Chissano is the special facilitator for Zimbabwe’s debt and arrears clearance programme being spearheaded by the African Development Bank.

President Mnangagwa said he used to work closely with former President Chissano during the liberation war.

“In 1963, me and my dear brother shared trenches together when he was in Frelimo and I was in ZANU,” he added.

The President was accompanied by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa.

Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, ZANU PF Second Secretary Cde Kembo Mohadi, the ruling party’s chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, and senior party and Government officials also attended the star rally.

By Jane Mlambo| Former Mozambican President Joachim Chissano will attend one of the two remaining rallies to be held by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) ahead of the Wednesday polls.

This was confirmed by Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba through his Twitter account TinoedzaZvimwe.

Charamba said Chissano attended Mnangagwa’s last rally in Shurugwi, Midlands yesterday and will also attend either CCC’s Bulawayo or Harare rally.

“Former President of Mozambique, Cde Joachim Chissano is attending the Midlands Rally. As both an elder statesman and a champion on Zimbabwe Debt Resolution, the former President requested that he attends two rallies: one for Zanu PF, another for Triple C. The Zimbabwean Govt acceded to the request,” said Charamba.

Chamisa is set to address Bulawayo residents today before his final cross over rally on Monday in Harare at the Freedom Square referred by Zanu PF as Robert Mugabe Square.

Zimbabwe will go to polls on Wednesday to chose local council, parliamentary and a new President in what is another landmark event in the politics of the country.

Front runners in this plebiscite are Nelson Chamisa of CCC and Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zanu PF while National Constitutional Assembly leader Lovemore Madhuku comes as a third most visible candidate.

Other Presidential contestants include Elizabeth Valerio, Trust Chikohora, Joseph Makamba Busha, Blessing Kasiyamhuru, Harry Peter Wilson and others.

By A Correspondent- Police have released the names of five people who were killed in a road traffic accident that occurred at the 7 km peg along Birchenough Bridge – Chipinge Road on 11 August.

In a statement on Monday, police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said:

The Zimbabwe Republic Police announces names of five (05) victims who died in a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 7 km peg along Birchenough Bridge – Chipinge Road on 11th August 2023 when a Nissan Caravan vehicle collided with a Mercedes Benz.

The victims were positively identified as follows:-

• Makadirei Rwizi a male adult aged 39,
• Susan Sibiya a female adult aged 34,
• Eugene Hlungupi a female adult aged 42,
• Joshua Mhundu a male adult aged 32 and
• Rejoice Mlambo a female adult aged 39.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to value life and be exemplary on the roads.

By A Correspondent- In a horrifying incident at a city centre drinking spot, Silver Majachani (32) experienced a nightmarish ordeal when two men forcefully dragged him out of the establishment, accusing him of stealing their cellphone. Raymond Mkwananzi (40) and Surprise Ndlovu (29) acted as a formidable duo, subjecting Majachani to a brutal assault that he will never forget.

According to a close source, Majachani was enjoying himself with friends when Mkhwananzi and Ndlovu stormed into the nightspot. Without hesitation, they approached Majachani’s table, seized him, and forcibly removed him from the premises situated between 11th and 12th avenues along Fife Street.

Once outside, the assailants took turns unleashing a flurry of blows upon him, using a sjambok and resorting to kicks, all while demanding the return of their alleged stolen cellphone.

The attack lasted a harrowing twenty minutes, during which Majachani endured severe physical trauma. He was kicked relentlessly throughout his body and face, resulting in profuse bleeding. A concerned friend of Majachani quickly rushed to report the incident to the Bulawayo Central Police Station.

Responding swiftly, the police arrived at the scene to find Mkhwananzi and Ndlovu still viciously assaulting Majachani, who lay on the ground, crying out for help. The authorities wasted no time in apprehending the attackers, handcuffing them, and escorting them to the police station, culminating in their subsequent arrest.

Majachani was immediately transported to Mpilo Central Hospital for urgent medical attention. Medical professionals discovered that he had suffered two broken teeth, while three others were left loose and unstable, adding to the extent of his injuries.

Expressing concern over the incident, a regular patron at the nightspot criticized the lax security measures in place, stating, “Our safety at this establishment is compromised. How can a patron be violently dragged out of the club while security personnel stand by?”

The patron went on to emphasize the urgent need for the nightspot’s management to address security shortcomings and enhance the protection of its customers. Such a distressing incident, the patron argued, would not be tolerated in other reputable nightclubs.

As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to take swift action to ensure justice is served for Majachani and to improve the safety standards at the city centre nightspot, preventing future occurrences of such violent incidents.

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) chairperson, Priscilla Chigumba, stated that the ruling ZANU PF party rejected the electoral management body’s recommendations to amend the Electoral Act for the purpose of conducting credible elections.

Chigumba made these remarks on Wednesday during a discussion with election observers in the capital, regarding ZEC’s readiness for the upcoming elections scheduled for next Wednesday. She said:

ZEC submitted several recommendations requiring alignment of the Electoral Act with the 2013 Constitution through the ministry of Justice and Legal and Parliamentary Affairs.

When ZEC wants to make a recommendation to change a certain section of the Electoral Act, we write to the Justice ministry, and attach a copy of our recommendation and we requested that our recommendation be incorporated in the law. The Minister of Justice (Ziyambi Ziyambi) being a member of a certain political party will take our recommendation to his political party and sometimes our recommendations find their way into the law and sometimes they do not.

Some of our recommendations found their way into the Electoral Amendment Bill, but a lot of them have not and we continue to make recommendations.

Zimbabwe has a history of contentious elections. President Emmerson Mnangagwa pledged to enhance the electoral process, but the opposition claims that the ZANU PF government manipulates ZEC.

Following the 2018 elections, observer missions urged the alignment of the Electoral Act with the Constitution, among other recommendations. Unfortunately, most of these recommendations were disregarded. The Electoral Act in Zimbabwe clashes with the country’s Constitution in several instances. These include the composition of ZEC, limitations on freedom of expression and media access, and inadequate provisions for voter registration transparency.

To address these issues, recommendations have been made, such as aligning the ZEC’s composition with constitutional requirements to ensure independence and impartiality, amending legislation to guarantee freedom of expression and media access, and strengthening provisions for auditing and transparency in voter registration.

These recommendations aim to create a more level playing field, uphold constitutional principles, and enhance the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.

Chigumba appealed to political parties, urging them to control their supporters and ensure a peaceful environment before and after the elections. She also expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the chiefs’ elections and suggested that Zimbabweans could learn from them, highlighting their positive example for maintaining peace during the electoral process.

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) yesterday released a list of activities that are not permitted within a 300-metre radius of a polling station on election day next Wednesday.

Posting on its official Twitter page, ZEC said wearing party regalia, sloganeering, using political or candidate-branded vehicles and distributing leaflets or pamphlets on behalf of a candidate or political party are prohibited.

Some of the activities which are prohibited include public singing, dancing and the use of bands, music, or loudspeakers as well as the use of cameras or phones.

The country goes to the polls on Wednesday next week to elect a President, Members of Parliament and councillors.

According to ZEC, there are 6 623 511 registered voters in Zimbabwe with Bulawayo having 287 720 voters while Matabeleland North has 371 587.

Matabeleland South has 300 763 registered voters while the Midlands has 840 961 people who are eligible to vote.

A total of 12 374 polling stations have been established.

Speaking during a media briefing in Harare on Wednesday, ZEC chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, said as at August 14, a total of 3 572 local observers, 136 foreign observers, 376 local journalists and 15 foreign journalists had been accredited.

Meanwhile, ZEC has dismissed as unfounded, allegations that the voters’ roll recently given to Presidential and National Assembly constituency candidates cannot be searched and analysed.

ZEC chief elections officer, Mr Utloile Silaigwana, said the voters’ roll is searchable and analysable as per provisions of Section 21(7)(1) of the Electoral Act[Chapter 2:13].

The section states that where a voters roll is provided in electronic form in terms of subsection (3), (4) or (6), its format shall be such as allows its contents to be searched and analysed, provided that — (i) the roll may be formatted so as to prevent it being altered or otherwise tampered with.

“It is for this reason that ZEC has issued out the voters’ roll in its current format. There is nowhere in the Act where it is stated that the roll should be in excel or printable formats known to have compromised security features,” said Mr Silaigwana.

“The voters’ roll issued out to candidates has columns for the voter’s surname, forename, ID number, gender, date of birth, voter’s address, polling station, ward, local authority, constituency, district and province as prescribed in Section 20(2) of the Electoral Act.”

Mr Silaigwana said the polling station codes have not been included on the voters’ roll because they are an administrative tool used by the Commission to map out polling stations during delimitation hence they are not part of the voters’ roll as alleged.

He said the electorate and other stakeholders should expect to see real names of polling stations and not codes on the voters’ roll.

“Ordinary voters without access to the electronic voters’ roll are encouraged to dial the USSD Code *265# on their mobile phones to ascertain their registration status and respective polling stations. The Commission would like to urge all stakeholders with queries on the voters’ roll or any other electoral issue to approach the Commission for clarification,” said Mr Silaigwana.

He said people should desist from casting aspersions on the voters’ roll and other electoral processes as this may affect voter turnout and discredit the polls.

“It is for this reason that ZEC has issued out the voters’ roll in its current format. There is nowhere in the Act where it is stated that the roll should be in excel or printable formats known to have compromised security features,” said Mr Silaigwana.

“The voters’ roll issued out to candidates has columns for the voter’s surname, forename, ID number, gender, date of birth, voter’s address, polling station, ward, local authority, constituency, district and province as prescribed in Section 20(2) of the Electoral Act.”

Mr Silaigwana said the polling station codes have not been included on the voters’ roll because they are an administrative tool used by the Commission to map out polling stations during delimitation hence they are not part of the voters’ roll as alleged.

He said the electorate and other stakeholders should expect to see real names of polling stations and not codes on the voters’ roll.

“Ordinary voters without access to the electronic voters’ roll are encouraged to dial the USSD Code *265# on their mobile phones to ascertain their registration status and respective polling stations. The Commission would like to urge all stakeholders with queries on the voters’ roll or any other electoral issue to approach the Commission for clarification,” said Mr Silaigwana.

He said people should desist from casting aspersions on the voters’ roll and other electoral processes as this may affect voter turnout and discredit the polls.

By A Correspondent- Emmanuel Makandiwa, the leader of the United Family International Church (UFIC), has predicted that the ruling ZANU PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa will win the forthcoming August 23 elections. Makandiwa confidently declared that the ruling ZANU PF party would emerge victorious with a significant margin. He said, if Zanupf loses the election, his followers should then find another man of God.

This revelation has sparked intense speculation and debate throughout the country, as citizens eagerly await the election outcome to see if his prophecy comes true.

Some critics argue that religious leaders should not only focus on election predictions but also address pressing issues such as human rights abuses, corruption, and political vices in the country. Norton Member of Parliament (Independent), Temba Mliswa said:

As the election date approaches, Zimbabweans find themselves torn between hope and scepticism, eagerly anticipating the unfolding events. The nation awaits the verdict on August 23, which will shape Zimbabwe’s future. Several self-proclaimed prophets including Nigerian pastor, Samuel Akinbodunse, have made predictions stating that opposition leader Nelson Chamisa will emerge victorious in the upcoming elections, following his loss in the contentious 2018 presidential election.

Effects of Makandiwa’s “Prophecy”

Makandiwa’s “prophecy” about the upcoming elections can impact voters in various ways. It may strengthen the support of his followers for the ruling ZANU PF party, reinforcing their beliefs. The prophecy could also lead undecided voters to reconsider their choices or become more cautious. However, it might also result in voter apathy among opposition supporters who feel that the outcome is predetermined, leading them to potentially give up on voting altogether.

Religion has played a significant role in Zimbabwean politics throughout history. Before colonialism, traditional governance relied on spirit mediums who influenced the selection of kings. During colonial rule, Christianity was introduced and used by authorities to justify control. However, churches also became spaces for resistance against oppression. After independence, the government maintained close ties with religious leaders for nation-building. Nevertheless, concerns have arisen about the misuse of religious platforms by influential figures like Makandiwa, Walter Magaya, Nehemiah Mutendi, Uebert Angel, and Madzibaba Andyby to sway congregants towards political agendas, including support for the ruling ZANU PF party. Religion in Zimbabwean politics offers moral guidance, social cohesion, and resistance, but the blurring of boundaries between religious and political spheres raises questions.

By A Correspondent- In a disturbing incident in Filabusi, Matabeleland South province, a man, along with his sister and a friend, allegedly assaulted his ex-l0ver, accusing her of infecting him with a Sǝxuɑlly Transmitted Infection (STI). The violent attack involved the use of a knife to tear the victim’s clothes, leaving her nɑked, followed by the perpetrators pouring cold water on her and subjecting her to severe whipping on her buttocks.

The sh0cking episode unfolded when Portia Siziba (18), the victim, unexpectedly encountered her former partner, Mqondisi Sibanda (25), and his sister, Lindiwe Sibanda (29), while she was on her way to the shops. The situation quickly escalated as Mqondisi and Lindiwe accused Siziba of transmitting an STI to Mqondisi. Enraged, the pair allegedly assaulted Siziba by grabbing her neck, slapping, and punching her, as revealed in court.

Despite Siziba’s attempt to flee, Mqondisi tripped her, causing her to fall. While she lay on the ground, the assailants took turns kicking and beating her while showering her with insults. Later, their friend joined in the attack. Together, they forcibly tore off Siziba’s bra and blouse, leaving her partially unclothed.

The violent trio then dragged Siziba to Lindiwe’s residence, where Lindiwe retrieved a kitchen knife. With the knife, Lindiwe proceeded to tear Siziba’s trousers and underwear, leaving her completely nɑked. They ordered Siziba to lie down on the ground, drenched her with cold water, and relentlessly whipped her on the butt0cks using a whip, according to court testimony.

Subsequently, the perpetrators confiscated Siziba’s phone battery before instructing her to run away. Siziba promptly reported the incident to the police, resulting in the arrest of the siblings. The third accomplice is currently at large and yet to be apprehended.

By A Correspondent- In a shocking incident a police officer stationed at Fairbridge Police Camp has been arrested for allegedly dragging a woman for more than five metres with his car leading her to sustain a disfigured finger and injuries on her face.

A source close to the incident said Nyembesi Mafanele who works as a general hand at Fairbridge Police Camp had a misunderstanding with a police officer Gerald Zhou who is attached to the Support Unit Section.

A source said despite their fall out Mafanele boarded Zhou’s car from the shops to her home and when they were at a bus stop Zhou stopped his car for Mafanele to disembark.

“While she was disembarking Zhou started and drove the car while Mafanele clung on the door pleading with him to stop his car but he turned a deaf ear. He dragged her for more than five metres,” said the source.

The source added: “Mafanele lost grip and violently fell on the ground. She suffered a disfigured finger and injuries on her face.”

A Good Samaritan rushed her to United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) leading to the arrest of Zhou.

Zhou is set to appear for trial before Bulawayo regional magistrate facing an attempted murder charge

By- The United Family International Church (UFIC) leader, Emmanuel Makandiwa, has angered Zimbabweans by saying that Zanu PF and its President Emmerson Mnangagwa would win the Wednesday elections. 

He unashamedly declared that the ruling Zanu PF party would emerge victorious and added that if Zanu PF loses, his followers should then find another man of God.

This revelation has sparked intense speculation and debate throughout the country, as citizens eagerly await the election outcome to see if his prophecy comes true.

Some critics argue that religious leaders should not only focus on election predictions but also address pressing issues such as human rights abuses, corruption, and political vices in the country. Norton Member of Parliament (Independent), Temba Mliswa said:

It’s tiresome how these supposed men of God keep posturing about prophesying who the winner of the elections will be without also speaking out against the many human rights abuses, corruption, violence and other political vices plaguing the country.

As the election date approaches, Zimbabweans find themselves torn between hope and scepticism, eagerly anticipating the unfolding events. The nation awaits the verdict on August 23, which will shape Zimbabwe’s future. Several self-proclaimed prophets including Nigerian pastor, Samuel Akinbodunse, have made predictions stating that opposition leader Nelson Chamisa will emerge victorious in the upcoming elections, following his loss in the contentious 2018 presidential election.

Effects of Makandiwa’s “Prophecy”

Makandiwa’s “prophecy” about the upcoming elections can impact voters in various ways. It may strengthen the support of his followers for the ruling ZANU PF party, reinforcing their beliefs. The prophecy could also lead undecided voters to reconsider their choices or become more cautious. However, it might also result in voter apathy among opposition supporters who feel that the outcome is predetermined, leading them to potentially give up on voting altogether.

Religion has played a significant role in Zimbabwean politics throughout history. Before colonialism, traditional governance relied on spirit mediums who influenced the selection of kings. During colonial rule, Christianity was introduced and used by authorities to justify control. However, churches also became spaces for resistance against oppression. After independence, the government maintained close ties with religious leaders for nation-building. Nevertheless, concerns have arisen about the misuse of religious platforms by influential figures like Makandiwa, Walter Magaya, Nehemiah Mutendi, Uebert Angel, and Madzibaba Andyby to sway congregants towards political agendas, including support for the ruling ZANU PF party. Religion in Zimbabwean politics offers moral guidance, social cohesion, and resistance, but the blurring of boundaries between religious and political spheres raises questions.

By- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says all election campaign rallies should end two days before the election date.

 ZEC’s vice-chairman, Rodney Kiwa, said any political party that violates this deadline would face legal consequences.

 Kiwa said:

Any campaigning by any political party, candidates, or individuals should end on August 21 at midnight. August 22 should be a quiet day and no political campaigning is allowed. If any party campaigns they will be liable to the law, it’s in terms of the Electoral Act and they will be criminalised. Those who campaign will be bound to prosecution, as ZEC will see to that. Midnight on August 21 is the deadline.

ZEC has also published a list of prohibited activities within a 300-meter radius of polling stations, including the ban on party regalia, slogans, political vehicles, leaflets, public performances, and the use of cameras or phones.

In a notice seen by Pindula News, the electoral body also said it is a punishable offence to refuse to leave a polling station when a Presiding Officer orders one to do so. Read the notice:

REFUSAL TO LEAVE A POLLING STATION 

It is an offence to refuse or fail to leave a polling station when lawfully required to do so by the Presiding Officer. Offenders are liable to a fine not exceeding level four or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months or to both such fine and such imprisonment. (Electoral Act – Chapter 2;13, Section 90).

Regarding ballot printing, ZEC announced the following quantities produced for each election category:

• Presidential Election: 7,126,600 ballot papers
• National Assembly Elections: 7,098,750 ballot papers
• Council Elections: 6,861,650 ballot papers

ZEC’s chief elections officer, Mr Utloile Silaigwana, explained the reasons for the variation in the number of ballot papers printed for each election category. He stated that for the National Assembly election, the passing of an independent candidate in the Gutu West National Assembly constituency led to a postponement. In the local authority election, elections won’t be held in 91 wards due to unopposed candidates and the unfortunate demise of four candidates. These elections will be conducted at a later date.

ZEC has also published a list of the 12,374 polling stations distributed as follows:

• Bulawayo: 434
• Harare: 1,559
• Manicaland: 1,623
• Mashonaland Central: 1,107
• Mashonaland East: 1,420
• Mashonaland West: 1,507
• Masvingo: 1,416
• Matabeleland North: 920
• Matabeleland South: 721
• Midlands: 1,667

ZEC Chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba confirmed that 6 623 511 people have been registered to vote in the elections. She also confirmed the following categories of participants in the elections:

• Presidential Candidates: 11
• National Assembly Candidates: 518
• Independent Candidates: 64
• Local Authority Candidates (sponsored by political parties): 4,648
• Independent Local Authority Candidates: 266

Regarding the election of two Senators to represent persons with disabilities, ZEC Chief Elections Officer, Mr Utoile Silaigwana, provided the following information:

• The Electoral College, consisting of specified associations and institutions, will convene on August 26.
• The election will be conducted in accordance with section 120(1)(d) of the Constitution.
• The specified associations and institutions are listed in Statutory Instrument 133 of 2023.
• The Electoral College will gather at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 7 am to 7 pm to elect the Senators representing persons with disabilities.

Last month, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, prescribed a list of 119 associations and institutions. These entities will nominate individuals who will compose the Electoral College responsible for filling the Senate seats for Senators elected to represent persons with disabilities. The list was formulated after consultations with Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Professor Paul Mavima.

By NewsHawks- After telling election observers that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) has given local authority, National Assembly and presidential election candidates copies of the ward, constituency and national voters’ roll copies, respectively, Zec chairperson Priscilla Chigumba openly yet inadvertently confirmed that the elections management body and herself have been acting illegally.

Section 20(4a) of the Electoral Act clearly provides that: The Commission may prepare and maintain, in printed or electronic form, a consolidated NATIONAL VOTERS ROLL and a consolidated VOTERS ROLL for any CONSTITUENCY or WARD, but such rolls SHALL NOT BE USED FOR THE PURPOSES OF POLLING IN ANY ELECTION. As Professor Jonathan Moyo puts it, “therefore, it is clear that by electoral law the ward, constituency and national voters rolls are useless for the purposes of polling in any election. “Why then did ZEC give candidates useless voters rolls, which are not prescribed for the purposes of polling in any election? A useful voters roll is by definition one that is used for the purposes of polling, and nothing else. In the circumstances, and for the avoidance of doubt, the only useful voters roll for the purposes of polling in any election is the polling station voters roll! If a registered voter wants to check whether his or her name is on the voters roll, they check the polling station voters roll and no other voters roll!”

By- The leader of the United Family International Church (UFIC), Emmanuel Makandiwa, has angered Zimbabweans by vowing that Zanu PF and its President Emmerson Mnangagwa would win the Wednesday elections. 

He unashamedly declared that the ruling Zanu PF party would emerge victorious and added that if Zanu PF loses , his followers should then find another man of God.

This revelation has sparked intense speculation and debate throughout the country, as citizens eagerly await the election outcome to see if his prophecy comes true.

Some critics argue that religious leaders should not only focus on election predictions but also address pressing issues such as human rights abuses, corruption, and political vices in the country. Norton Member of Parliament (Independent), Temba Mliswa said:

It’s tiresome how these supposed men of God keep posturing about prophesying who the winner of the elections will be without also speaking out against the many human rights abuses, corruption, violence and other political vices plaguing the country.

As the election date approaches, Zimbabweans find themselves torn between hope and scepticism, eagerly anticipating the unfolding events. The nation awaits the verdict on August 23, which will shape Zimbabwe’s future. Several self-proclaimed prophets including Nigerian pastor, Samuel Akinbodunse, have made predictions stating that opposition leader Nelson Chamisa will emerge victorious in the upcoming elections, following his loss in the contentious 2018 presidential election.

Effects of Makandiwa’s “Prophecy”

Makandiwa’s “prophecy” about the upcoming elections can impact voters in various ways. It may strengthen the support of his followers for the ruling ZANU PF party, reinforcing their beliefs. The prophecy could also lead undecided voters to reconsider their choices or become more cautious. However, it might also result in voter apathy among opposition supporters who feel that the outcome is predetermined, leading them to potentially give up on voting altogether.

Religion has played a significant role in Zimbabwean politics throughout history. Before colonialism, traditional governance relied on spirit mediums who influenced the selection of kings. During colonial rule, Christianity was introduced and used by authorities to justify control. However, churches also became spaces for resistance against oppression. After independence, the government maintained close ties with religious leaders for nation-building. Nevertheless, concerns have arisen about the misuse of religious platforms by influential figures like Makandiwa, Walter Magaya, Nehemiah Mutendi, Uebert Angel, and Madzibaba Andyby to sway congregants towards political agendas, including support for the ruling ZANU PF party. Religion in Zimbabwean politics offers moral guidance, social cohesion, and resistance, but the blurring of boundaries between religious and political spheres raises questions.

By James Gwati-The European Union has deployed a 44-member delegation to observe the Wednesday elections.

In a statement to the media Friday, the EU Harare office said the observers will touch base this weekend.

Reads the statement:

You are kindly invited to attend the press point of the European Union Election Observation Mission to the Republic of Zimbabwe at the occasion of the deployment of the EU EOM short-term observers. 

Deputy Chief Observer, Dr. Beata Martin-Rozumiłowicz will address the 44 observers and will be available for questions. 

Observers will be present in the EU EOM mission outfit with the EU EOM logo and will be leaving in a convoy from the Holiday Inn Hotel.