By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Commissioner-General, Shepherd Mpofu, has denied that convicted rapist Bobby Makaza’s release under a presidential amnesty was irregular.

Makaza was released in May 2022 after serving less than five years of his 16-year sentence for rɑping a juvenile. His early release has sparked public outcry and condemnation from human rights lawyers.

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), on behalf of the victim’s parents, filed a court application seeking Makaza’s re-arrest. They argued his release was illegal as rɑpists are not eligible for presidential amnesty.

However, in a response filed on July 31, Commissioner-General Mpofu stated that Makaza was correctly released after assessing his age and identity.

Mpofu said Makaza benefited from Clemency Order 1 of 2023, which granted full remission of sentence to prisoners aged 60 and above, except those sentenced to life imprisonment, death or convicted of public violence.

Mpofu described suggestions that Makaza was ineligible as “malicious and ridiculous”. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Police Commissioner Matanga are named as respondents in the court case.

By A Correspondent- National Chiefs’ Council president Chief Fortune Charumbira says he is not seeking re-election to the helm of the national traditional chiefs’ body at polls that are scheduled for tomorrow.

His current deputy, Chief Mtshane Khumalo of Matabeleland North province, is understood to be one of the frontrunners to succeed Chief Charumbira who has served two terms.

The National Chiefs’ Council is meeting in Bulawayo ahead of elections on Thursday, to elect a new Chiefs’ Council president and the deputy who will automatically become Members of Parliament as Senators.

Thursday’s election will be the culmination of a process that started last week with ZEC holding glitch-free elections to choose 36 chiefs into the National Chiefs’ Council in an exercise that officially kick-started the 2023 harmonised elections.

Chief Charumbira, the outgoing council president, was overwhelmingly voted back as one of the five Chiefs’ Council members from Masvingo province after defeating Chief Neromwe (Mr Clemence Madzingo) of Zaka by 27 votes to 7.

Chief Charumbira is also the president of the Pan African Parliament.

Chief Khumalo hailed Chief Charumbira for his impeccable leadership skills that saw him even getting the support of all African regions to become PAP leader.

He described Chief Charumbira as a repository and sanctuary of the country’s traditional leadership institution with his exemplary leadership depicting the ethos of the past, present and the future.It emerged also that the National Chiefs’ Council has unanimously resolved to deploy Chief Charumbira to an “appropriate post” where the organisation would continue tapping into his wisdom while he also continued to serve as PAP leader.

Chief Chundu (born Abel Mbasera) of Mashonaland West said they still required Chief Charumbira’s wisdom to improve the traditional leadership institution in Zimbabwe.

“There are still many issues that we feel Chief Charumbira’s expertise and leadership will be required as we continue to strengthen the traditional leadership institution.

“We are traditional leaders and we own the soil and we always agree on one position for the good of our institution and the people that we lead so we indeed still need Chief Charumbira’s guidance and services,” said Chief Chundu.

Chief Siansali born Mr Nkatazo Siatabwa of Matabeleland North who said: “Chief Charumbira is behind the growth and transformation of the traditional leadership institution to where it is today and he has vast experience nationally and internationally and we feel it is not prudent to just relegate him to the periphery without tapping from his experience and direction.”

-newsday

By A Correspondent- At least 77% of registered voters in Zimbabwe want change of government, according to a latest survey by a local research institute.

A recent survey commissioned by the Public Policy and Research Institute of Zimbabwe (PPRIZ) revealed that the majority of the respondents said they were  “most likely” to vote in the August 23 elections.

The survey conducted in July this year in all 10 provinces of the country says the majority of the respondents, 82%, were registered voters.

“More females (46%) are registered to vote compared to their male counterparts (36%). 17% of the registered voters are first-time voters ie 18-23 years,” the report read.

“The majority of the respondents (77%) say they want a new direction in the country.

“Of those that are most likely to vote, more are from rural areas (53%) compared to 47% from urban areas.

“Notably, 33% of the first-time voters say they will definitely vote in the forthcoming election.”

PPRIZ is an independent think-tank led by former State Enterprises and Parastatals  minister Gorden Moyo.

At least 66% of the respondents said the economic situation was bad while 68% said the government failed to provide jobs to alleviate poverty.

“Post-election situation: 28% of the respondents say the country will be better off after the election, 25% say it will be worse off, 27% do not know while 19% say the country will be the same as it is today,” the report read.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is seeking re-election, having won the disputed 2018 polls by a narrow margin.

His main challenger, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa, is having another go at the presidency.

Self-exiled former minister Saviour Kasukuwere is back and forth at the courts challenging his disqualification.

There is only one female presidential candidate, United Zimbabwe Alliance leader, Elisabeth Valerio, down from four in 2018.

According to the PPRIZ survey, 61% of the respondents said it is time for women to assume more national leadership roles.

“Ironically, more than half (50%) of the respondents say they would not vote for female or youthful candidates for president in the forthcoming election,” the report says.

“Vote-buying: 44% say they will refuse to take bribe and they will vote with their conscience, 40% will take the bribe and vote with their conscience while 11% will take bribe and vote for the briber.

“5% is undecided whether to take the bribe or not.”

The report also noted with concern the rising cases of political violence across the country.

A CCC supporter was killed last week in Glen View, Harare, in another case of political violence.

“Notably, 33% of the respondents from Manicaland province, 24% Masvingo province and 19% Mashonaland East province said they have witnessed violence in the last two months.”

On trust issues, only a few respondents said they trust political parties (15%), media (19%), Parliament (20%), Judiciary (20%), police (22%), Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (23%) and the military (28%).

“However traditional leaders (37%) and International and regional election observers (30%) fared much better than the rest of the other institutions.”

-newsday

By A Correspondent- Three Harare-based detectives appeared in court yesterday charged with stage-managing a break-in at Harare Central Police Station stores office before stealing an undisclosed amount of money kept as exhibits.

Stanley Musekiwa (46), Takaidza Mugwisi (36) and Masimba Stanely Gwasunda (43), all from CID Stores, were facing theft and malicious damage to property charges when they appeared before magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa.

The trio was remanded in custody to today for bail application.

Musekiwa is an inspector and is the officer-in-charge CID Stores and Business Harare, while Mugwisi and Gwasunda are his subordinates.

It is the State case that on June 23, 2023, Mugwisi recovered US$40 500 from one Carlington Gengezha, who had been arrested for breaking into and stealing money from a property in Belvedere, Harare.

He surrendered the money to Musekiwa as the officer-in-charge.

Musekiwa handed the money to Gwasunda, an exhibit officer.

Musekiwa and Gwasunda were supposed to put the money in a safe at the CID Homicide Harare for safekeeping.

On August 6, 2023 Mugwisi was deployed on night guard duties at CID offices, including the exhibit room.

On the same date at around 0100 hours, the trio took advantage of darkness following an electrical fault at Harare Central Police Station and stage-managed a break-in before stealing the money.

They later allegedly set the room alight, destroying several exhibits consisting of stoves, a fridge, a bed, clothing, crates of beer, cellphones, television sets, radio sets and gas tanks.

By A Correspondent- A Mukumbura man who allegedly killed a woman and dumped the body in a bush has been arrested after confessing to the killing during a church service.

Lameck Masumukire (25) allegedly killed Petunia Gomo (20) in Mukumbura Village, Mashonaland Central on 5 August after suspecting she was bewitching him.

While police were still investigating, Masumukire made a confession at church.

Police did not reveal which of his fellow congregants snitched on him when they released a statement about his arrest.

“Police in Mukumbura have arrested Lameck Masumukire (25) in connection with a case of murder in which Petunia Gomo (20) was found dead in a bushy area near Senga Village, Chiswiti, Mukumbura on 05/08/23.

By- Three Harare police officers stage managed a break-in at Harare Central Police Station Stores office and stole money before setting it ablaze have appeared in court.

Stanley Musekiwa (46) from ZRP CID Stores, Takaidza Mugwisi (36) from CID Stores and Masimba Stanely Gwasunda (43), ZRP CID Stores were facing theft and malicious damage to property when they appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa.
Musekiwa is an Inspector and is the Officer In Charge of CID Stores and Business Harare.
Mugwisi and Gwasunda are subordinates of Musekiwa.
It is the State’s case that on June 23 2023 Mugwisi recovered cash amounting to US$40 500 from one Carlington Gengezha who had committed unlawful entry and theft in Belvedere, Harare. The recovered cash and US$5 000 which had been recovered in different cases were taken into possession by Musekiwa the Officer In Charge and he handed it to Gwasunda who is the Exhibit Officer.
Musekiwa and Gwasunda who were supposed to place the money in a safe at CID Homicide Harare for safekeeping after being instructed by Deputy Director Crime CID Zimbabwe (name not given) instead stashed the cash into a four-plate stove oven drawer which was in office 26 CID Stores and Business Harare.
On August 6 2023 Mugwisi was deployed on night guard duties securing CID offices that include the exhibit room.
On the same date at around 1 am the three accused persons took advantage of darkness after an electrical fault at Harare Central Police Station and proceeded to office 26.
They stage-managed a break-in by cutting the padlock keys that secure the screen gate using a bolt cutter to cut while in actual fact they used keys to open the door to gain entry. They opened the four-plate stove oven drawer which was securing the cash and stole it and yet to be quantified exhibits before they set the room alight thereby destroying several other exhibits comprising of two four-plate stoves, a fridge, a bed, various clothing, several crates of beer, cellphones, several televisions, radios and gas tanks.
The fire caused extensive structural damage to the building and the value of the destroyed exhibits and building is yet to be quantified. Herald

By-MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora has chickened out of the Presidentichickened al rate two weeks before the polls.

Mwonzora announced his withdrawal Tuesday, accusing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) of rigging the impending polls.

He said the decision of the ZEC to bar the party’s 87 MP candidates was evidence of rigging.

This withdrawal comes amidst allegations of massive irregularities by ZEC and Zanu PF.

CRISIS in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) says labelling the organisation regime change agents is a usual tactic used by dictatorships worldwide to muzzle all voices which attempt to hold them to account.

In a recent interview with NewsDay (ND), CiZC chairperson Peter Mutasa (PM) said this would, however, not silence them. Below are excerpts of the interview.

ND: When was CiZC born, and what prompted its birth?

PM: The CiZC was formed in August 2001 by several civil society organisations and the formation of the coalition was meant to spearhead a collective civil society response in addressing the multi-faceted crisis of governance and governmental legitimacy then engulfing Zimbabwe. The formation of the coalition was also informed by the need to push for a developmental trajectory informed by the people and inclusive of every citizen regardless of creed.

The coalition is a membership-based organisation and currently has 92 institutional members. These members are organised by thematic committees namely youth, gender, advocacy, peace building, arts, information and human rights committees.

The coalition also has a regional information and advocacy desk which operates from our office based in Johannesburg, South Africa, whose major role has been to champion the accurate projection of Zimbabwe’s challenges not only in the region but internationally. This is anchored on our belief that resolving Zimbabwe’s challenges requires informed solidarity from her regional neighbours and the international community.

ND: Can you briefly outline the journey towards attainment of democracy and inclusive national development in Zimbabwe?

PM: The journey has not been an easy one, especially taking into consideration the increasingly authoritarian nature of our State, more notably at least since 2000. The 22 years of our existence symbolise years of trials and tribulations characterised by State repression and closure of the democratic space.

It is unfortunate that in response to our calls for a genuinely people-centred governance framework, the State has responded essentially by further constricting the civic and democratic space, which is supposed to be the lifeline of a constitutional and participatory democratic governance framework. Instead, the State has resorted to name-calling, restrictive laws and brute force, characterised by abductions, arbitrary arrests, torture as well as extra-judicial killings, but we have remained vigilant and continue to be guided by our vision.

The journey has not been easy, but we have soldiered on and the coalition continues to leave an indelible footprint in the fight for democracy and good governance in Zimbabwe.

The heightening of the closure of civic and democratic spaces that we have seen post the November 2017 coup just serves as a reminder to comrades and the generality of citizens alike, that the struggle continues and we must continue to push until we realise the dream of inclusive national development in Zimbabwe.

I cannot overemphasise the apparent pointers to an increasingly authoritarian State we continue to see — the militarisation of key state institutions, persecution of dissenting voices, obscene levels of corruption and plunder of State resources and weaponisation of the Judiciary among many other vices.

Our antidote to these vices and resolving the long-standing crisis in the country is also simple. Zimbabweans must be assisted to have a genuine national dialogue process.

What will this dialogue seek to do? It must seek to help Zimbabwe return to full norm compliance in modern statecraft by implementing comprehensive electoral, social, economic and political reforms. Such reforms must be undergirded by a firm commitment to return to political legitimacy and the restoration of constitutionalism.

A devolved constitutional State (entails) the declaration of rights is the cornerstone of economic development; a political system built on a free and fair electoral system; and a competitive multi-party system that strengthens the social contract and underpins governmental legitimacy.

It is incumbent upon the country’s leadership to desist from cosmetic approaches on the issue of a national dialogue and engage all the key stakeholders including but not limited to political actors themselves, business, civil society in its entirety — the church, labour, students, women’s movements, peasants, war veterans, ethnic minorities — every section of our varied population must be included and represented in this national dialogue.

ND: The CiZC has been accused of being a “regime change outfit that continuously seeks to please its Western masters”. How do you react to these allegations?

A fourth suspect involved in the E-Creator Electronic Commerce company case, where several individuals were defrauded of US$1 million in a Ponzi scheme, was apprehended and presented in court on Saturday.

Abraham Mutambu, who had evaded arrest by relocating to his rural home in Chihota, appeared before Magistrate Yeukai Dzuda. The magistrate remanded him to today for a bail application.

According to the allegations, in January 2023, the accused conspired with Jao Jiatong, Trymore Tapfumanei, and Justine Muchekenya, who are already in custody for the same case, along with other individuals who are still at large. They devised a plan to defraud unsuspecting Zimbabweans through an online investment Ponzi scheme.

On February 7, 2023, they established and registered a company named E-Creator Electronic Commerce (Pvt) Limited with the Zimbabwean Registrar of Companies. The company, with registration number 2853/23, operated from rooms 15 and 16 on the 10th floor of the Joina City Building in central Harare.

The accused then presented the company as an online e-commerce operator with a global internet presence.

Between February and July 2023, the accused, who was based at the company’s headquarters in Joina City, collaborated with his co-accused and deceived thousands of Zimbabweans by falsely promising substantial monthly profits based on their investments.

Numerous individuals from across the country joined the company and invested an estimated US$1 million through various EcoCash numbers provided on the platform by the accused. To make the company more enticing, the accused appeared on national television, traditional and social media, advertising its services and recruiting more victims into the scheme.

The accused expanded the company by opening branches throughout the country and recruiting additional participants.

On July 3, 2023, some complainants encountered difficulties accessing their funds and sought clarification from the company. The accused assured them that a system upgrade was causing the issue and that access to their funds would be restored in due course. However, on July 5, 2023, the complainants discovered that the E-Creator scheme had collapsed, resulting in the loss of all their invested funds and blocked withdrawals.

Investigations led to the arrest and detention of the other three accused individuals. Further investigations led to the apprehension of the accused, who had relocated to the Chihota communal areas. As a result of the accused’s actions, the complainants suffered a loss of US$1 million, and no funds were recovered.

By A Correspondent- A Harare man last week went berserk and stabbed four people, two of them fatally.

Among the four was a police office who attempted to subdue him.

Allegations are that on August 3 this year, the accused person Saratoga Masere (26) had a misunderstanding with his father and neighbours came to find out what was happening.

The accused, who was violent at the time, reportedly locked himself in his room.

The now-deceased Dino Mpofu of Lonchivar, Southerton, who was among the neighbours, tried to approach the accused in a bid to resolve the problem.

Masere opened the door armed with an okapi knife and charged towards the crowd outside the house.

The startled neighbours bolted, but the accused caught up the now-deceased and stabbed him in the chest.

The deceased fell down as blood gushed out of the wound and was rushed to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

During the fracas, Masere also allegedly stabbed the victim’s son, Kim Mpofu (16), before stabbing a police officer who had tried to subdue him.

He also stabbed Lameck Nguwo Mazvunara (73).

Mazvunara died the following day, bringing the number of dead to two.

After committing the offence, Masere went to his rural area in Masere village, Chief Musana, Bindura to evade arrest, but police tracked him down and arrested him.

The body of the now-deceased is at Sally Mugabe Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem.

Masere yesterday appeared at Harare Magistrates Court in leg irons and was remanded in custody to August 22, 2023, pending indictment at the High Court for trial.

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) last week confiscated thousands of Zapu campaign T-shirts at the Beitbridge Border Post.

The regalia, which was brought into the country by cross-border transporters and was seized on August 4, consisted of seven bags weighing 134kg — a donation by South Africa-based party supporters.

Zapu spokesperson Mso Ndlovu confirmed the seizure yesterday saying efforts were being made to have the consignment released by the tax collector.

“They are still held by Zimra, but we have dispatched a team to the border to get them released,” Ndlovu said.

He said since the launch of their party manifesto and the successful nomination of their candidates, there has been an escalation of repression against Zapu.

“But this will not deter us one bit. It gives us more determination to confront the devil eye-ball for eye-ball,” Ndlovu said.

Zapu South Africa chapter provincial secretary for administration Godfrey Viki said: “Zapu SA provincial members bought party regalia of thousands T-shirts and sent them to Zimbabwe.”

A Zimra receipt dated August 4 states that the goods are pending clearance by bill of entry and payment of State warehouse rent.

“You are hereby notified that the goods described below have been detained for stated reasons and prescribed State warehouse rent is payable from the date of detention,” the Zimra receipt read.

“If they remain uncleared for three months from the date of this notice, they will be sold in terms of section 39 of the Customs and Excise Act [Chapter 23:02].”

-newsday

By A Correspondent- Murdered Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) supporter Tinashe Chitsunge’s 27-year-old wife Dzidzisai broke down in tears as reality struck, her husband was now just a memory, another statistic on Zimbabwe’s growing list of political violence victims.

Clinging onto her four-year-old son Sean while seated an arm’s length from her 11-year-old daughter Shanelle, Dzidzisai cut a lonely figure among the tens in their home and hundreds more of CCC supporters singing in Glenview 7 streets.

Sean is in Early Childhood Development (ECD) while Shanelle is a Grade Six pupil.

Chitsunge was stoned to death on Thursday by suspected Zanu-PF supporters who declared Tanaka area, adjacent to his home, a no-go zone for any opposition campaigns ahead of Zimbabwe’s August 23 General Elections.

Videos of his lifeless body lying less than 200 metres from his home, where he had wanted to seek refuge, broke the internet.

Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) such as Amnesty International (AI) and Heal Zimbabwe Trust (HRT) condemned the killing.

Speaking at his funeral wake Monday, CCC leader and presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa put the blame squarely on President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Chamisa asked why Mnangagwa was quiet as his supporters butchered his and why despite ‘indications that they do not want elections’ they still chose to call for them.

“I have been travelling across the country, people are being herded like livestock,  people no longer have peace. People in Zimbabwe are oppressed.

“It is very painful when you look at these children, Zanu-PF has denied these children their future because their father simply decided to support what it did not agree with.

In the rural areas people are being abused, they are suffering. They are being told their names will be written down by Headmen, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) officers are traversing every inch on bikes intimidating people and telling them they will be killed if they vote for change.

“Why do you call for elections if you do not want people to elect, why do you call for elections if you do not have confidence, if you do not want them to choose their leader?

“We cannot have a country that forces people to only support a certain political party. Now look, Tinashe is now a statistic, a blemish on our record.

“Mnangagwa is not the rightful leader of this country, if he were he would have come here to pay his condolences, he would have called for justice and warned the perpetrators that we do not do that in this country.”

Moments before Chamisa spoke, party supporters retraced Chitsunge’s footsteps, stopping at his murder site to sing Zanu makauraya, a rendition of Zimbabwe’s popular funeral song Ndimi Makauraya which points out those that would be suspected of having had a hand in the death of loved ones.

Tens looked on up trees, roofs as he spoke, castigating Zanu-PF and calling for justice.

In announcing to journalists that 12 suspects were in police custody, Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe promised that the ZRP will not look at one’s political affiliation in its investigation of Chitsunge’s murder.

“I wish to reiterate that the government of Zimbabwe does not condone acts of political violence by individuals, groups, or political parties under the guise of campaigning for the elections.

“My Ministry has directed the Commissioner General of Police (Godwin Matanga) to arrest perpetrators of violence without looking at one’s political stature, status, identity or financial muscle. Therefore, all malcontents who want to damage the image of the country and discredit the forthcoming elections will have themselves to blame.”

Chitsunge’s postmortem results were expected on Monday according to one of his brothers present at the wake with his burial set for Tuesday in Buhera.

As Chamisa left for Norton where he had scheduled rallies, only a few tens remained behind, most of whom were victims in the melee that cost Tinashe’s life.

-NewZimbabwe

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwean rapper Holy Ten, real name Mukudzei Chitsama, has expressed his support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF in the upcoming August 23 election. However, his endorsement has received criticism from journalist Hopewell Chin’ono.

In a video he posted on his Instagram account, Holy Ten urged Zimbabweans to rally behind President Mnangagwa citing developmental work he is doing around the country. Watch the video below for more.

Chin’ono said while Holy Ten has the right to support whomever he chooses, it is up to the people of Zimbabwe to decide if they want to continue supporting an artist who aligns with a regime that has imprisoned political opponents like Job Sikhala without conviction. He said:

Zimbabwean rapper @holytenmusic has declared his support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF in the forthcoming August 23 election. He also amplified the slogan coined by a paedophile who raped a 10-year-old child who said ED Huchi.

@holytenmusic has a right to support whoever the wants, but choices have consequences. It is up to Zimbabweans to make a decision and choice if they want to continue supporting the music of an artist who supports a regime that has jailed its opponents like Job Sikhala without conviction.

It is up to Zimbabweans to choose whether they will support the music of a man who wants their economic pain to continue. It is up to Zimbabweans to choose whether they will support the music of a man who doesn’t care about the unnecessary lives lost to easily treatable diseases like cancer.

Zimbabweans have to be serious about their choices regarding supporting people and institutions that are sending kids to bed on empty stomachs. It is up to Zimbabweans to support the music of man who doesn’t care about the 2500 women who die every year giving birth.

It is up to Zimbabweans both home and abroad whether they want to attend shows of a man who supports the continuation of 95% unemployment and who supports the diaspora having to look after their families in Zimbabwe due to poverty. It is up to you Zimbabweans to make that decision, @holytenmusic has made his decision, he is supporting the repressive regime.

RETWEET for others to see how power without responsibility can result in empowering the people that make you suffer. @holytenmusic has used his power to do so, it is up to you how you will use your own power!

Responding to Chin’ono, the ruling party said telling members of the public to cancel Holy Ten won’t work. Said the party:

Is this democracy? You are literally telling people to cancel Holy Ten. It won’t work.

In response to Holy Ten’s endorsement of President Mnangagwa, some social media users have stated that they no longer listen to his music on platforms such as Spotify. This backlash is not unique to Holy Ten, as other artists like Kicky Badass, Sandra Ndebele, Mambo Dhuterere, and Allan Chimbetu have also faced similar criticism after endorsing Mnangagwa.

The political landscape in Zimbabwe is highly polarised.

During Robert Mugabe’s reign, artists were hesitant to perform at opposition rallies or create songs that criticised political elites. Notably, Thomas Mukanya Mapfumo had to flee into exile due to persecution for exposing corruption within the Mugabe regime. However, in recent times, more artists have openly expressed their support for opposition parties, which was considered dangerous in the past.

Conversely, openly supporting ZANU PF can also be risky, as it may lead to backlash from the public who accuse them of aligning with an oppressive regime. Some observers have raised concerns about perceived double standards among opposition supporters. They highlight that opposition lawyers, who hold office within the party, have represented ZANU PF officials without facing the same backlash as the artists.

Opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Douglas Mwonzora has called for an urgent press briefing amid reports that he is set to pull out of the 23 August Presidential elections.

Just last week, Mwonzora unveiled his election manifesto where he made a number of promises to the electorate but barely a week later, he is chickening out.

According to reports, candidates in Bulawayo have however refused to withdraw saying they have already invested a lot of money into their campaigns.

More to follow….

Tinashe Sambiri

CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has condemned the brutal murder of change champion Tinashe Chitsunge.

Chitsunge was murdered by suspected Zanu PF supporters last week in Harare.

Below is President Chamisa’s statement:

I’m so saddened by the politically motivated cold blooded murder of a gallant Change Champion, Citizen Tinashe Chitsunge.

No life should be lost on account of politics. No party or politician is worthy killing for.

My heartfelt condolences to Tinashe Chitsunge’s family and the Citizens family as a whole…

MHSRIP. Peace to all the citizens! Police do your job!

By- Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) outgoing legislator for Mutare Central, Innocent Gonese, says if his party is elected into power, it will ensure access to health services by key populations such as lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) to curb the spread of HIV and Aids.

Gonese made the pledge during a political dialogue on health policy proposals convened in Mutare last week by the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) and its partner The Advocacy Core Team (ACT).
According to UNAids, gay men who have sex with men, sex workers, transgender, people who inject drugs, prisoners and other incarcerated people are considered as five main key populations vulnerable to HIV while they lack adequate access to services.
Gonese emphasised that CCC will not be promoting homosexuality, but rather recognising common experiences affecting the LGBTQI community’s health and well-being.
“As CCC we are saying anyone at higher risk of contracting diseases, be it LGBTQI community or young key populations they must have access to healthcare services,” he said.
“By teaching youths about sexual reproductive health care, we are not encouraging teenage sexual activities. We are just recognising that it is happening despite that we do not like it.”
Gonese added: “We may not like homosexuals, but if they are there, they must have access to health care.
“They do it behind the curtain and we do not want them to suffer in silence while they spread STIs and other diseases.”
He said vulnerable groups should not be discriminated against when it comes to access to health care services.
“Young children must be taught about sexual reproductive health so that whenever they indulge in sex they will seek for services.
“This will help our nation to reduce new infections of HIV and various STIs,” said Gonese, adding that CCC will also raise the age of consenting to sex from 16 to 18 years.
He was responding to Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV (ZNNP+) Manicaland coordinator, Moses Chananuka who had asked how a CCC government will work with key populations.
“HIV is now prevalent amongst key populations and other groups of people who must be given health care services.
“As CCC how are you going to work with the LGBTQI community and other key populations who need access to services?” Chananuka questioned.
According to UNAids statistics, key populations and their sexual partners outside sub-Saharan Africa accounted for 80% of new HIV infections in 2016.
In 2016, in sub-Saharan Africa, key populations accounted for 25% of new HIV infections.
National Constitutional Assembly candidate for Dangamvura constituency, Larmeck Mwandunguza pledged free health care services for every citizen if their presidential candidate Lovemore Madhuku is elected.
“If you vote for our president Lovemore Madhuku, everyone will not pay fees at government health care centres and they will be treated for free.
“Expecting mothers will only cater for preparation and they will not pay for delivery as it will be paid for by government,” Mwandunguza said.
He added that the NCA will offer higher pay for health workers.
“NCA will ensure health workers are well motivated to do their work,” he said.
“We will introduce mobile clinics in public places and equip our hospitals with cancer machines.”
Mwandunguza said an NCA government will use money accrued from farming and the sale of mineral resources to improve the health sector.
ZADHR officials revealed that panelists from the ruling Zanu PF party snubbed the political dialogue.
“We have failed to get panelists from Zanu Pf here in Mutare and Bulawayo. They promised to come but they could not show up.
“We made an effort to invite them,” ZDHR secretary Norman Matara said.
-TheStandard

By- Thousands of CCC supporters in Sakubva stadium Sunday threw Zim dollar notes in the air after the opposition leader Nelson Chamisa had declared that once he is elected President, he will do away with the local currency.

Excited supporters fished out local currency notes from their pockets and threw them in the air, forcing Chamisa to momentarily stop his speech.
“Let us say goodbye to the valueless local currency. We want to ensure that people earn money that has value. Voting for me will signal the end of the local currency,” Chamisa said.
The local currency is recovering slowly after suffering a sharp depreciation against the United States dollar in May and June.
Chamisa said he was worried about the culture of name-dropping being perpetuated by the Zanu PF-led government.
He said once elected to power, he would end that culture.
“We have seen people killing others, violating laws and behaving as if they are a law unto themselves. They do this while brandishing a Zanu PF flag, which is their protection.
“You see just a few days ago, our supporter was killed in Harare. Nothing will happen. There will be no accountability. This is what our country has become and this cannot continue. Under my government, violence will be a thing of the past,” Chamisa said.
Violence and intimidation ahead of the August 23 general elections, especially in rural areas, have been on the increase, with chiefs and headmen reportedly leading the onslaught.
Chamisa said he had been approached by chiefs who claimed that Zanu PF was forcing them to write down the names of potential voters.
“Chiefs have been telling me that they are being forced to write the names of their subjects and forcing them to vote for Zanu PF. (President Emmerson and Zanu PF leader) Mnangagwa is behaving like (the late former Rhodesian Prime Minister Ian) Smith, using violence and intimidation to govern without the consent of the people,” Chamisa said.
During a rally in Mhondoro-Mubaira recently, Zanu PF vice-president Kembo Mohadi let the cat out of the bag when he said all chiefs were required to create a register of their subjects and track who they vote for.
On education, Chamisa said he would bring an end to the Continuous Assessment Learning Activities regime, which has brought discomfort to parents and teachers.
The CCC leader said he would introduce free education at primary level and reintroduce grants at university level.
On devolution, the CCC leader said he would ensure that all towns and cities are empowered to make decisions.
Chamisa said Zimbabweans should change the leader of the country if they wanted development and progress.
“The country is heading in the wrong direction. We need to change the coach and the coach is Mnangagwa. He has failed us, failed this nation and we need a new coach,” he said.
The CCC had to use Sakubva Sports Oval after it failed to secure the main stadium which is under renovation. Newsday

By-The Harare Central Police’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID) offices were Sunday morning gutted by fire.

The CID offices are in the basement of the Harare Central Police Station.

In a statement to confirm the incident, ZRP said:

The ZRP confirms a fire incident which occurred at ZRP Harare Central complex between 0100 hours and 0800 hours today. Investigations are underway to find out what actually transpired.

This includes the extent of damage to the complex and contents. More details to be released in due course.

Reports suggest that three fire engines were deployed to extinguish the blaze, which was first reported at 1.30 AM. 

The incident has sparked a range of opinions, with some questioning the structural soundness of the building while others speculate whether the fire was intentionally set to destroy certain individuals’ case files.

As of now, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has not issued an official statement regarding the incident, leaving room for further investigation and clarification

Tinashe Sambiri

CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has condemned the brutal murder of change champion Tinashe Chitsunge.

Chitsunge was murdered by suspected Zanu PF supporters last week in Harare.

Below is President Chamisa’s statement:

I’m so saddened by the politically motivated cold blooded murder of a gallant Change Champion, Citizen Tinashe Chitsunge.

No life should be lost on account of politics. No party or politician is worthy killing for.

My heartfelt condolences to Tinashe Chitsunge’s family and the Citizens family as a whole…

MHSRIP. Peace to all the citizens! Police do your job!

Grace Mugabe’s brother, Mike Bimha has to rush to save Emmerson Mnangagwa during his speech after crowds began deserting him on Saturday…

Uzumba crowds desert Mnangagwa whileb talks about bridges, and ZANU PF Commissar (Grace Mugabe brother) Mike Bimha ends up threatening people using the terms: respect and discipline. pic.twitter.com/8hoITdiPNl

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) August 6, 2023

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) deployed anti- riot police to Glen Norah where they indiscriminately assaulted residents of Tanaka during the night. This action followed the tragic murder of Tinashe Chitsunge, a member of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), by suspected ZANU PF supporters.

Tanaka primarily consists of ZANU PF supporters who were allocated residential stands by the ruling party. In the aftermath of the incident, some individuals sought temporary refuge with their relatives. Notably, police patrols were observed in the area as early as 8 am, indicating an intensified presence.

According to sources, riot police, locally known as the ‘black boots’ arrived on Wednesday night and proceeded to assault individuals. One source mentioned being fortunate not to have been among those attacked and stated their decision to stay with their aunt until the situation calms down. The source told New Zimbabwe:

The black boots came yesterday (Wednesday) at night and went about beating up people.

We were fortunate not to have been part of those beaten. I have since decided to go to my aunt’s house for a few days until the situation here subsides.

Residents expressed fear in commenting on the matter. Police on Friday reported that ten suspects had been arrested in connection with Chitsunge’s murder. Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe later claimed 12 had been arrested. He said:

My ministry deeply regrets the loss of life which occurred and passes its condolences to the family of Tinashe Edson Chitsunge. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has since arrested 12 suspects in connection with this sad incident.

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa condemned the brutal killing and called on the police to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served. Amnesty International, an international human rights organisation, also strongly condemned the violent murder of Tinashe Edson Chitsunge.

Eyewitnesses reported that Chitsunge was brutally assaulted by suspected Zanu-PF supporters while heading to a rally at Tanaka grounds. Although the rally had police authorisation, some Zanu-PF supporters disregarded the authorities and took control of the location. CCC engaged the police to displace the Zanu-PF crowds but was overwhelmed, leading to the ruling party supporters viciously attacking Chitsunge.

It's not true‼️

❎Minister Machakaire did not meet Cde Bobby Makaza.

❎He did not promise to build him a house. pic.twitter.com/ioN1KpJ1GD

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) August 7, 2023

By A Correspondent- The ruling Zanu-PF party has denied rewarding convicted rapist Bobby Makaza with a house and a substantial amount of cash during a presidential rally in Mutawatawa, Mashonaland East province, on Saturday.

Makaza was sentenced to 16 years in prison by a Murewa magistrate in 2019 after raping a 10-year-old girl a year earlier.

He, however, served less than five years of the sentence after he was released together with more than 4 200 other prisoners following a clemency order signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on May 19 this year.

The party in a tweet said it is not true that the minister Mchakaire met Makaza neither did he promise to build him a house.

Said Zanu PF:

“It’s not true. Minister Machakaire did not meet Cde Bobby Makaza. He did not promise to build him a house.”

We publish below reactions from twimbos:

Varakashi vozvirakasha pic.twitter.com/FbFgTk8UwA

— Sister Turner Tawanashe (@Tawanan63017476) August 7, 2023

After public outcry then you want to do a fire fighting hamunyare? You are hypocrites and you survive on it so continue but your days are numbered as a party

— Charles Magagada (@MagagadaCharles) August 7, 2023

Makuramba madhara enyu ka, ma pedophiles, surely how can a party brand itself on words from a rapist and make him a hero.

Have you thought of how the family of the girl will feel – obviously, you don't care.

— Ethan Malibongwe Moyo (@EthanMalibongwe) August 7, 2023

Reported the Newsday:

The amnesty, which was aimed at decongesting prisons and give offenders a second chance, was met with mixed reactions.

Soon after leaving prison, Makaza became a celebrity in the ruling party for coining Zanu-PF’s 2023 election campaign slogan: “ED Huchi”, which is extensively being used at its rallies.

During the rally, Zanu-PF political commissar Mike Bimha announced that the party’s youth secretary Tinoda Machakaire is building a house for the ex-convict.

Makaza also walked away with US$700 in cash after Machakaire gave him US$500 while other party members chipped in with US$200.

“Cde Machakaire is building him a house and has also given him cash. Other party members have also chipped in with some cash incentives,” Bimha announced at the rally.

Makaza was called to the high table to meet Mnangagwa, but could not make it in time because he was too far from the podium.

Clad in all-white Zanu-PF regalia, Makaza enjoyed celebrity status as ruling party supporters jostled to have pictures taken with him.

Civil society organisations, women’s rights activists and opposition political parties have, however, condemned his release, calling it a slap in the face to survivors of sexual assault and an affront to the principles of justice and accountability.

Witwatersrand University based political analyst Romeo Chasara said the ruling Zanu-PF was setting a wrong precedent by “celebrating” rapists.

“This move by Zanu-PF raises serious questions about the party’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting justice in Zimbabwe. By rewarding a convicted rapist with a house and cash, the ruling party sends a dangerous message that crimes of this nature can be overlooked and perpetrators can be celebrated. This undermines the efforts of survivors and activists who have been tirelessly advocating for justice and accountability,” he said.

Former Cabinet minister Walter Mzembi castigated Zanu-PF, describing the move as a new low.

“We have a lot of work ahead of us in resetting societal norms and values, redefining what we celebrate as a nation. Rebranding a paroled rapist convict of minor children as a celebrity for coining a campaign slogan ‘ED Huchi’ is a low for many,” he said.

Following the pampering, the activists said the party’s actions not only trivialised the gravity of the crime committed, but also perpetuated a culture of impunity.

In July, Tinashe Chinopfukutwa and Paidamoyo Saurombe of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights wrote to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu demanding to know on what basis Makaza qualified for amnesty.

Chinopfukutwa and Saurombe were acting on instruction from the victim’s family.

If a court rules that Makaza’s release was illegal, the ZPCS could be forced to re-imprison him and others who were freed.

Prisons said the amnesty for the 4 270 inmates was meant to decongest Zimbabwe jails, but victims of violent crimes said they were not consulted before the perpetrators were freed.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The ruling Zanu-PF party rewarded convicted rapist Bobby Makaza with a house and a substantial amount of cash during a presidential rally in Mutawatawa, Mashonaland East province, on Saturday.

Makaza was sentenced to 16 years in prison by a Murewa magistrate in 2019 after raping a 10-year-old girl a year earlier.

He, however, served less than five years of the sentence after he was released together with more than 4 200 other prisoners following a clemency order signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on May 19 this year.

The released prisoners included, according to government, rapists and murderers who had turned 60 or older.

The amnesty, which was aimed at decongesting prisons and give offenders a second chance, was met with mixed reactions.

Soon after leaving prison, Makaza became a celebrity in the ruling party for coining Zanu-PF’s 2023 election campaign slogan: “ED Huchi”, which is extensively being used at its rallies.

During the rally, Zanu-PF political commissar Mike Bimha announced that the party’s youth secretary Tinoda Machakaire is building a house for the ex-convict.

Makaza also walked away with US$700 in cash after Machakaire gave him US$500 while other party members chipped in with US$200.

“Cde Machakaire is building him a house and has also given him cash. Other party members have also chipped in with some cash incentives,” Bimha announced at the rally.

Makaza was called to the high table to meet Mnangagwa, but could not make it in time because he was too far from the podium.

Clad in all-white Zanu-PF regalia, Makaza enjoyed celebrity status as ruling party supporters jostled to have pictures taken with him.

Civil society organisations, women’s rights activists and opposition political parties have, however, condemned his release, calling it a slap in the face to survivors of sexual assault and an affront to the principles of justice and accountability.

Witwatersrand University based political analyst Romeo Chasara said the ruling Zanu-PF was setting a wrong precedent by “celebrating” rapists.

“This move by Zanu-PF raises serious questions about the party’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting justice in Zimbabwe. By rewarding a convicted rapist with a house and cash, the ruling party sends a dangerous message that crimes of this nature can be overlooked and perpetrators can be celebrated. This undermines the efforts of survivors and activists who have been tirelessly advocating for justice and accountability,” he said.

Former Cabinet minister Walter Mzembi castigated Zanu-PF, describing the move as a new low.

“We have a lot of work ahead of us in resetting societal norms and values, redefining what we celebrate as a nation. Rebranding a paroled rapist convict of minor children as a celebrity for coining a campaign slogan ‘ED Huchi’ is a low for many,” he said.

Following the pampering, the activists said the party’s actions not only trivialised the gravity of the crime committed, but also perpetuated a culture of impunity.

In July, Tinashe Chinopfukutwa and Paidamoyo Saurombe of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights wrote to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu demanding to know on what basis Makaza qualified for amnesty.

Chinopfukutwa and Saurombe were acting on instruction from the victim’s family.

If a court rules that Makaza’s release was illegal, the ZPCS could be forced to re-imprison him and others who were freed.

Prisons said the amnesty for the 4 270 inmates was meant to decongest Zimbabwe jails, but victims of violent crimes said they were not consulted before the perpetrators were freed.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Government has told jobless teachers to open their own schools as it cannot employ all of them into the country’s education system.

This was said by Higher and Tertiary Education deputy minister Raymond Machingura during a graduation ceremony at Belvedere Teachers’ College on Friday.

Machingura was speaking in an interview with a local radio station on the sidelines of the graduation ceremony.

“Unemployed teachers should start their own companies which produce stationery and other consumables used in schools or even start their own schools.

“If you look at it, private schools are charging exorbitant fees. So if we have our own teachers with their own private schools, they will not be charging high fees but will be providing quality education,” Machingura said.

The country, with a student population of six million, has a deficit of 3 000 schools.

The government last year launched a blitz across the country to close down hundreds of schools and colleges which were operating illegally.

A//bulawayo24.com&dtd=119A total of 320 out of 448 schools and colleges identified as operating illegally were shut down by authorities in Harare.

But early this year, government re-registered the private schools which had been shut down to accommodate thousands of South Africa-based pupils who are likely to join their parents coming back home following the expiry of Zimbabwe Exemption Permits.

National Council of Student Teachers president Walter Muzamani said encouraging teachers to start their own schools was an admission that the education system has failed.

“That teachers should start their own schools is an admission that it has failed to manage the education system. The government has failed to fund the education system which has resulted in the private education sector thriving.

“It is a fact that private schools are offering quality education compared to public schools,” Muzamani said.

Zimbabwe Teachers Association secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said the establishment of more private schools would result in the further collapse of the public education system.

“If teachers become entrepreneurs, then the education system will be commercialised. It’s privatising the education system which is exclusive to low-income earners. Accessibility to education will be compromised. Government undertook to provide quality education and has to stick to that mandate and not abdicate its responsibility to job-seeking teachers,” Taderera said.

“Currently, people are using ramshackle buildings as schools which have serious effects on the safety of learners. Government has failed to employ teachers and privatisation of education cannot be the solution.”

By A Correspondent- The Zanu-PF campaign train rolls into Jambezi in Hwange district today where the party’s Secretary for Administration Dr Obert Mpofu is expected to address multitudes of supporters.

Jambezi falls under the Hwange East constituency and Cde Mpofu will be drumming up support for President Mnangagwa and the party’s candidate for the National Assembly seat, Cde Alois Sikuka.

Cde Mpofu, who arrived in Victoria Falls yesterday from Mutawatawa in Mashonaland East province where he attended a star rally addressed by President Mnangagwa, said the revolutionary party is on a massive voter mobilisation drive countrywide.

“We will be in Jambezi for a campaign rally which is part of the mobilisation by the party. Yesterday I was in Mutawatawa and I have just arrived here in Victoria Falls ahead of tomorrow’s rally with the candidate for Hwange East,” he said.

Cde Mpofu said the party is not leaving any stone unturned in its drive for 5 million votes for President and Zanu-PF is targeting a clean sweep on August 23.

The rally will be held at Jambezi Centre.

Hwange has three constituencies namely Hwange Central and the Zanu-PF candidate is Cde Reeds Dube, Hwange East with Cde Sikuka and Hwange West where Cde Philani Moyo is the candidate.

Cde Sikuka said he had done his homework in the constituency where he started with door-to-door campaign in every village, interacting with party members and other voters.

He said he established that Zanu-PF has been losing in Hwange largely because of protests over some issues that need to be addressed.

Cde Sikuka said now is the time to address the issues and Zanu-PF will win the seat.

“We will be having Cde Mpofu for the campaign rally in the constituency where I am the candidate. This is an honour and everyone is looking forward to it especially looking at the fact that Cde Mpofu is a son of Jambezi,” he said.

“I have been campaigning in the whole constituency doing village-to-village engagement, teaching Zanu-PF ideology starting with the history of the party and Zimbabwe in general up to independence and formation of opposition parties.”

“I have been asking why people vote for the opposition and the conclusion we established is that this has been a protest vote. People don’t like the opposition.”

Cde Sikuka said there are simple things that need to be addressed to woo the voters such as sharing regalia and welcoming newcomers wholeheartedly.

“President Mnangagwa said that Zanu-PF pocket is big and can fit everyone. That has been my strategy and the response has been positive so far as people are seeing an all-inclusive message,” he said.

President Mnangagwa praised Mashonaland East province on Saturday for mobilising the largest gathering, so far, of ruling Zanu-PF supporters for his presidential election rally at Mutawatawa in Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe.

-statemedia

By A Correspondent- The police in Gokwe have arrested Thomas Muzenda, a 38-year-old artisanal miner from Village 17 Mupukuta, Chireya Gokwe North for murdering his one-year-old daughter for ritual purposes. Muzenda was arrested on August 2, 2023.

A police report seen by Pindula News says Muzenda was taken into custody in connection with the callous murder of his 1-year-old daughter, Nenyasha Muzenda, who had been reported missing.

Muzenda confessed to the crime revealing to the police that he had killed his daughter with a knife for ritual purposes. Allegedly seeking to enhance his mining activities, Muzenda an artisanal miner had consulted a traditional healer known only as Dhumba. The police were able to recover the remains of the victim from a disused well located at Zenda Mining area in Gokwe North. Reads the police report:

On 02/08/23, Police in Gokwe arrested an artisanal miner, Thomas Muzenda (38) of Village 17 Mupukuta, Chireya Gokwe North, in connection with the callous murder of his daughter, Nenyasha Muzenda (1 year 2 months), who had been reported missing. The suspect confessed to the police that he killed his daughter with a knife for ritual purposes to allegedly boost his mining activities after approaching a traditional healer only identified as Dhumba. Police have since recovered the remains of the victim from a disused well at Zenda Mining area, Gokwe North.

Ritual killings in Zimbabwe are a serious concern, involving intentional murders for the purpose of using body parts in rituals. These acts, driven by beliefs and superstitions, target men, women, and children. Despite concerted efforts by various stakeholders including the government, law enforcement agents, civil society and human rights organizations, these crimes persist.

By- One of the opposition MDC led by Douglas Mwonzora and Warren Park Councillor, Tichavona Mhetu, has defected to CCC, citing Mwonzora’s lack of prospects in Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections.

Mhetu announced his resignation at a rally for CCC’s Epworth North Parliamentary candidate, Zivai Mhetu, his younger brother. He emphasised the need to support an opposition party with a realistic chance of removing the entrenched regime that has held power for 43 years. Mhetu endorsed CCC as a viable alternative, highlighting the widespread support for the party and its youthful leadership. He said:

We have been in the trenches for a very long time and no sane person who has a background of opposition politics will rally behind a candidate who does not have a realistic chance of dislodging the monstrous regime at the helm for 43 years.

I am saying to all and sundry it a good decision to rally behind an opposition party that has a chance to unseat Zanu PF.

You can see everywhere people are saying yes to CCC, yes to yellow, yes to the young and the writing is on the wall.

This departure comes just weeks after the party’s spokesperson Witness Dube defected to the ruling ZANU PF party. Mwonzora’s predicament worsened with the High Court’s ruling, which disqualified 87 of his aspiring Members of Parliament from contesting on August 23. Only 24 out of the party’s initial 210 candidates remain eligible for the election, significantly diminishing their presence.

By- Zimbabwe’s envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Johannes Tomana, has died.

He was 56.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Spokesperson, Mr Livit Mugejo confirmed the sad development, saying Ambassador Tomana died in Honde Valley, Zimbabwe.

Ambassador Tomana was deployed to serve as the country’s top diplomat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in September 2020 and before that, he had served as the Attorney General between 2008 and 2013.

He also served as the country’s Prosecutor General in 2013 when Zimbabwe adopted the new constitution that created the position of Prosecutor General.
https://zbcnews.co.zw/2023/08/06/former-attorney-general-ambassador-tomana-dies/

By- It never rains but pours for the Opposition MDC led by Douglas Mwonzora as his Warren Park Councillor, Tichavona Mhetu, deserted the party and resigned, citing Mwonzora’s lack of prospects in Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections.

Mhetu announced his resignation at a rally for CCC’s Epworth North Parliamentary candidate, Zivai Mhetu his younger brother. He emphasised the need to support an opposition party with a realistic chance of removing the entrenched regime that has held power for 43 years. Mhetu endorsed CCC as a viable alternative, highlighting the widespread support for the party and its youthful leadership. He said:

We have been in the trenches for a very long time and no sane person who has a background of opposition politics will rally behind a candidate who does not have a realistic chance of dislodging the monstrous regime at the helm for 43 years.

I am saying to all and sundry it a good decision to rally behind an opposition party that has a chance to unseat Zanu PF.

You can see everywhere people are saying yes to CCC, yes to yellow, yes to the young and the writing is on the wall.

This departure comes just weeks after the party’s spokesperson Witness Dube defected to the ruling ZANU PF party. Mwonzora’s predicament worsened with the High Court’s ruling, which disqualified 87 of his aspiring Members of Parliament from contesting on August 23. Only 24 out of the party’s initial 210 candidates remain eligible for the election, significantly diminishing their presence.

The Judicial Service Commission has today sworn in 15 magistrates drawn from different fields as Government beefs up magisterial staff to enhance the justice delivery system.

The 15 magistrates were sworn in at the Harare Magistrates Court by the Chief Magistrate Mrs Faith Mushure and are set to take up magisterial posts across the country.

Briefing journalists, Mrs Mushure said the swearing in will go a long way in strengthening the magisterial bench.

“We swore into office 15 magistrates comprising six males and nine females. I think in recent weeks we have sworn the largest group of male magistrates. The group brings our total magistrates to 229 magistrates comprising 87 males and 142 female magistrates.

“They have been drawn from a cross section of professions meant to strengthen the bench. Five of the appointees are coming from the private practice. They were legal practitioners in private practice and eight have been drawn from the JSC. They were either court interpreters, judge assistant or researchers.

“One is coming from the Ministry of Primary an d Secondary Education and another from the ZRP. We have already deployed them to beef up our staff like in Bikita, Karoi, Kezi, Mberengwa, Chipinge,” said Mrs Mushure.

By- A top Citizans Coalition Change (CCC) member Thabitha Khumalo was left counting her losses after a man who had offered to help her to connect a battery to her car sped off with the vehicle before he was involved in an accident in Gweru.
A source close to the incident said while Khumalo was at her home in Bulawayo’s Sauerstown suburb connecting a battery to her car, Patrick Ncube came and offered to help her.
“He helped her connect the battery and after that Ncube jumped inside the car and drove off at high speed. Khumalo tried to stop him to no avail,” said the source.
Khumalo phoned him several times but his phone was not being answered, the source further said.
The source said after two days Khumalo called Ncube but his phone was answered by a woman who told her that he had been involved in an accident.
“The call was answered by a lady who told her that Ncube was admitted to Gweru General Hospital after he was involved in an accident. The lady said he suffered serious injuries,” said the source.
Later on the same day Khumalo phoned Ncube and he answered and confirmed that he was involved in an accident.
“He also told her that the car was impounded by the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) in Gweru and told her that US$300 is needed to repair the damaged car,” said the source.
Khumalo reported the incident at Sauerstown Police Station leading to Ncube’s arrest.
Ncube said: “She (Khumalo) came to our workplace and asked me to help connect the battery to her car and I assisted her. After that she asked me to test drive and I drove to Gweru.”
He added: “While I was in Gweru intending to drive to Shurugwi I was involved in an accident.
“I phoned her and told her that the car has been involved in an accident and has been impounded by VID. After that she reported me to the police.”
Efforts to get a comment from Khumalo were fruitless.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the incident. B Metro