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…

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.

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:

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

By- Zanu PF thugs have attacked opposition Citizens Coalition for Change leader Nelson Chamisa’s convoy with stones after he addressed a well-attended rally in Mutasa District, Manicaland Province.

“We had just finished addressing our supporters in Mutasa, as we were heading back and upon approaching the DC area we found the road barricaded by stones. They were throwing stones on our convoy. We had to make a u-turn. But we are safe,” Chamisa told NewsDay.
Contacted for comment, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said no report had been filed yet.
“On that case which you are referring to, as we speak police officers are on the ground, but no one has come forward to make an official report. We have not received any official report concerning the alleged violence.” Newsday

By- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reported the arrest of 19 students from Corridors of Hope College, as well as individuals from nearby schools, who were on the verge of commencing a party in Dzivarasekwa. A police report, indicates that law enforcement officers intervened just before the initiation of the event and seized numerous items, including alcohol, wine, condoms, and shisha. The report states:

The ZRP confirms that a raid has been conducted at a sex party at number 153 Nehanda Dzivarasekwa Extension where some students from Corridors of Hope College and others from neighbouring schools were about to start the party. 19 students and the caretaker of the house, Pride Nyamugafata (20), have been arrested. Several bottles of alcohol, wines, condoms, shisha and its flavour have been confiscated. More details to be availed soon.

Reports of Vuzu or orgy parties have been on the rise in Zimbabwe. Incidents involving the arrest of students for participating in these parties have also been on the rise. One notable case occurred in November 2022 when police arrested 39 students from different schools in Bulawayo during a raid on a Vuzu party in the Khumalo suburb. In October 2021, 16 individuals were also apprehended in the Kuwadzana suburb of Harare on charges of public nuisance following a sex party. Vuzu parties are secret indoor gatherings, predominantly organised by teenagers, where alcohol consumption, drug use, and sexual orgies are prevalent. 

By-Polive said they had arrested ten Zanu PF thugs for the murder of Tinashe Edson Chitsunge, a supporter of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). 

Chitsunge was tragically stoned to death by suspected ZANU PF supporters in Glen Norah, Harare, on Thursday. In an update the ZRP has confirmed that the suspects are currently under investigation and cooperating with the police. Reads the police update

Reference is made to the Glennorah violence which occurred on 03/08/23 resulting in the death of Tinashe Edson Chitsunge. ZRP confirms that 10 suspects have now been arrested and are assisting the Police with investigations.

Former Information Minister, Jonathan Moyo, praised the swift action taken by the police in response to the update. He commended the authorities for their efforts to bring the criminals responsible for Chitsunge’s murder to justice. He posted on Twitter:

This swift action is commendable @PoliceZimbabwe, the book should be thrown at the cowardly criminals who murdered Tinashe Chitsunge in such deplorable circumstances, to send a tough message to other similarly-minded criminal thugs out there that there is no place for them to hide!

Violence during elections has been an ongoing concern in Zimbabwe. Prior to the by-elections on 26th March 2022, 35-year-old Mbongeni Ncube, a member of the CCC, was fatally stabbed at a rally in Kwekwe. Suspected activists of the ruling ZANU PF party were arrested in connection with the incident. However, the latest information indicates that 11 out of the 16 suspects were granted bail, and no further updates have been provided. Ncube’s family, at some point went into hiding after reports that a key witness was being harassed.

Critics of the government argue that such acts of violence are employed as a means to intimidate voters into supporting candidates aligned with the ruling party. This manipulation of violence is seen as an attempt to influence the electorate and undermine the democratic process. 

• Zimbabwe authorities have failed to take necessary steps to ensure that the general election slated for August 23 meets international standards for free and fair elections.
• Use of repressive laws, partisan conduct by government agencies and election officials, and the opposition’s lack of access to many areas and to the voters roll create a flawed election process.
• The African Union and SADC should press the government to take concrete measures to give election observers full access and allow people to vote free of intimidation.

(Johannesburg, August 3, 2023) – Zimbabwe authorities have failed to take necessary steps to ensure that the general election slated for August 23, 2023, meets international standards for free and fair elections, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today.

The 44-page report, “‘Crush Them Like Lice’: Repression of Civil and Political Rights Ahead of Zimbabwe’s August 2023 Election,” finds that the seriously flawed electoral process threatens the fundamental rights of Zimbabweans to freely choose their representatives. The electoral process has been undermined by the authorities’ adoption and use of repressive laws, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s (ZEC) lack of impartiality, the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s partisan conduct and use of intimidation and violence against the opposition, the opposition’s lack of access to voter rolls, and impunity for individuals responsible for election-related abuses.

“Zimbabwe’s authorities have yet again demonstrated a lack of respect for the basic freedoms necessary for a credible, free, and fair election,” said Idriss Ali Nassah, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch and lead author of the report. “The inability of many candidates to campaign freely and openly throughout Zimbabwe raises serious concerns about whether the election results will reflect the political will of Zimbabwe’s people.”

Human Rights Watch interviewed 28 people in April and May, including activists, journalists, opposition members, and victims of human rights abuses. Letters with questions sent to several government agencies and the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union–Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party received no response.

The pre-election environment in Zimbabwe poses many obstacles for the political opposition, Human Rights Watch said. The authorities have weaponized the criminal justice system against the ruling party’s opponents. Civil society activists and government critics expressed strong fears that the authorities intended to use the Private Voluntary Organizations Act and other laws to criminalize their activities ahead of the election.

The Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Bill 2022, commonly known as the “Patriotic Bill,” which took effect in July, contains overly broad provisions that criminalize the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.

Politicians from the main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change, have been held in prolonged pre-trial detention or convicted on baseless, seemingly politically motivated charges. The party’s deputy spokesperson, Ostallos Siziba, said: “Right now, we cannot hold meetings in towns and cities, and we cannot go to the rural areas. ZANU-PF declared that rural areas are no-go zones for the opposition, and the ruling party causes violence any time the opposition tries to venture into the rural areas.”

The Zimbabwe police has selectively used the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act of 2019 to deny the opposition permission to hold meetings and campaign rallies, while allowing ZANU-PF to meet without hindrance.

ZANU-PF supporters have engaged in widespread harassment, threats, and acts of violence, preventing opposition parties from staging rallies, mobilizing, campaigning, and associating with supporters across the country.

There are also serious concerns about the independence, composition, and conduct of the ZEC. “The way the commission is constituted is a problem,” said a member of Heal Zimbabwe Trust, a national rights group. “Previously, the main political parties would second people to become commissioners, but the commissioners are now mostly chosen by the president after vetting by parliament. People lost confidence in the process because they think that the process is controlled by the state.”

Zimbabwe authorities should take all steps necessary to ensure that Zimbabwe police acts in a neutral and non-partisan fashion regarding the electoral campaign and all political parties’ activities, Human Rights Watch said. They should also ensure that police and other officials found responsible for human rights violations are held to account.

In April, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said that only election monitors from “friendly nations” will be invited to observe the elections. Since then, the European Union and a joint AU-Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa mission have been granted permission to monitor the elections. Because observers might not be allowed access to all parts of the country, there are concerns that election-related abuses and illegal practices will go unaddressed.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union (AU) member states should press the government of Zimbabwe to ensure that national and international electoral observers will have access to all election sites, Human Rights Watch said. The government should guarantee that observers will be free to move throughout the country and able to report on any election-related intimidation and violence.

They should also urge the government to implement the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and ensure that SADC and AU election observers remain in Zimbabwe for a sufficient period beyond the vote count to monitor possible post-election related human rights violations.

“The Zimbabwe government needs to take concrete measures before the election to meet its obligations under national and international law to allow people to vote free of intimidation, fear, and violence,” Nassah said. “So far nothing indicates the authorities are willing to do that.”

By A Correspondent- A senior police officer, Assistant Inspector Chester Last Matsa, who received threatening remarks from Deputy Tourism Minister Barbra Rwodzi after arresting a ZANU PF member, has reportedly gone missing.

The police radio issued from Shurugwi Police Station announced Matsa’s absence and requested his arrest if located. Matsa had been transferred to Shurugwi from Charandura Police Station after a leaked recording of his conversation with Rwodzi went viral. In the audio, Rwodzi verbally abused Matsa and threatened him for arresting Fidelis Danger, a member of her party who was taking down opposition party campaign posters. Rwodzi was recorded saying: 

I will finish this with you in front of (Commissioner General of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Godwin Thandabantu) Matanga. You’re an idiot… You think CCC will win? You’re a dog! You’re a dog! Go and file a complaint wherever you want, you’re a dog. Stupid!

Matsa filed a police complaint against Rwodzi in Gweru on July 17, 2023, but no update was provided after police issued a statement saying the matter was under investigation. In his complaint which named Rwodzi as the accused person, Matsa said:

The accused person threatened the complainant with harm over the phone.

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform expressed concern over the incident, stating that it was a dangerous sign of a slide towards authoritarianism to intimidate and harass law enforcement officials for political gain

By- The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the death of one person in public violence near Tanaka Grounds in Glen Norah, Harare.

The deceased is a CCC supporter and was killed by Zanu PF thugs in Glen Norah this afternoon.

Although ZRP confirmed the sad incident, it did not mention that the deceased was a CCC supporter and was killed by Zanu PF thugs.

The videos below show a dozen Zanu PF supporters singing revolutionary songs, and stoning CCC supporters in a CCC-branded open truck.

Zanu PF supporters in the videos are also seen violently removing CCC posters from the moving truck.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms an incident of public violence in Riverside area, Glen Norah near Tanaka Grounds.
“One person is confirmed dead as a result of the clashes. The scene is being attended by all relevant police sections. A detailed statement will be issued in due course,” he said.

The Police said that the incident occurred around 1 pm without naming the deceased, adding that they were investigating.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms an incident of public violence in Riverside area, Glen Norah near Tanaka Grounds.
“One person is confirmed dead as a result of the clashes. The scene is being attended by all relevant police sections. A detailed statement will be issued in due course,” he said.

Below is the video…….

By-The Supreme Court has granted the appeal of 12 Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) parliamentary candidates, clearing them to contest in the upcoming general election scheduled for August 23.

The party announced in a Twitter post that ZANU PF triggered the case. Read the post:

Our 12 Bulawayo MPs are back on the ballot box. This was a desperate attempt by Zanu PF to smuggle their unelectable members into parliament. Bulawayo is an integral part of the election process and cannot be ignored.

The candidates were disqualified for submitting their nomination papers to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) through a third party, a police officer, in violation of the Electoral Act. In his ruling, Justice Bongani Ndlovu had declared that the separation of the papers from the CCC candidates through the medium of the police officer to be unlawful. He further noted that the Electoral Act requires the candidate or their agent to be present in court and ready to submit their papers at 4 pm, rather than just the papers being present.

CCC candidates had given their nomination papers to the police officer following the instruction of the ZEC nomination officer for Bulawayo, Mr I. Ncube. ZEC officials have claimed that Ncube instructed the police officer to collect the papers shortly before 4 pm, as the courtroom was about to close and was too small to accommodate all candidates who were queueing to submit their papers. The Supreme Court’s decision clears the way for the CCC candidates to participate in the election.

The ruling may have an implication on the case of Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi, a ZANU PF member, in which a voter applied to have him disqualified.

By- The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the death of one person in public violence near Tanaka Grounds in Glen Norah, Harare.

The deceased is a CCC supporter and was killed by Zanu PF thugs in Glen Norah this afternoon.

Although ZRP confirmed the sad incident, it did not mention that the deceased was a CCC supporter and was killed by Zanu PF thugs.

But videos and pictures circulating on social media show a dozen Zanu PF supporters singing revolutionary songs, stoning CCC supporters in a CCC-branded open truck.

Zanu PF supporters in the videos are also seen violently removing CCC posters from the moving truck.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms an incident of public violence in Riverside area, Glen Norah near Tanaka Grounds.
“One person is confirmed dead as a result of the clashes. The scene is being attended by all relevant police sections. A detailed statement will be issued in due course,” he said.

The Police said that the incident occurred around 1 pm without naming the deceased, adding that they were investigating.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms an incident of public violence in Riverside area, Glen Norah near Tanaka Grounds.
“One person is confirmed dead as a result of the clashes. The scene is being attended by all relevant police sections. A detailed statement will be issued in due course,” he said.

By- Zanu PF Presidential candidate Emmerson Mnangagwa said he won not step down if he loses the 23 August elections.

In his own words, Mnangagwa said the Zimbabwean “state house is very far,” emphasizing that it won’t be easy for the opposition to attain power.

He made the remarks during a Zanu PF rally at Mkhithika Thebe Primary School in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, where he was rallying supporters to vote for the party and Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, who is vying for the Cowdray Park National Assembly seat.

Taking to the podium, Mnangagwa outlined his government’s achievements since taking over from Robert Mugabe. He also highlighted his administration’s plans to develop Bulawayo, including ensuring access to water through the Nyamandlovu Aquifer and the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, which is reportedly 70% complete. He said:

Under the second republic, we have plans to develop Bulawayo. Firstly, we want to make sure there is water.

My first step was the Nyamandlovu Aquifer, my second step is building the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, once that is completed, you will say ‘bye bye’ to water challenges.

The state house is very far. If they [the opposition] go to America, it will be much easier.

By James Gwati- Zanu PF thugs have killed a CCC supporter in an incident of political violence that happened in Glen Norah this afternoon.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed that the sad incident happened at 1 PM without naming the deceased.

Videos and pictures circulating on social media show a dozen Zanu PF supporters singing revolutionary songs, and stoning CCC supporters in a CCC-branded open truck.

Zanu PF supporters in the videos are also seen violently removing CCC posters from the moving truck.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms an incident of public violence in Riverside area, Glen Norah near Tanaka Grounds.
“One person is confirmed dead as a result of the clashes. The scene is being attended by all relevant police sections. A detailed statement will be issued in due course,” he said.

By-The Supreme Court has granted the appeal of 12 Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) parliamentary candidates, clearing them to contest in the upcoming general election scheduled for August 23.

The party announced in a Twitter post that ZANU PF triggered the case. Read the post:

Our 12 Bulawayo MPs are back on the ballot box. This was a desperate attempt by Zanu PF to smuggle their unelectable members into parliament. Bulawayo is an integral part of the election process and cannot be ignored.

The candidates were disqualified for submitting their nomination papers to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) through a third party, a police officer, in violation of the Electoral Act. In his ruling, Justice Bongani Ndlovu had declared that the separation of the papers from the CCC candidates through the medium of the police officer to be unlawful. He further noted that the Electoral Act requires the candidate or their agent to be present in court and ready to submit their papers at 4 pm, rather than just the papers being present.

CCC candidates had given their nomination papers to the police officer following the instruction of the ZEC nomination officer for Bulawayo, Mr I. Ncube. ZEC officials have claimed that Ncube instructed the police officer to collect the papers shortly before 4 pm, as the courtroom was about to close and was too small to accommodate all candidates who were queueing to submit their papers. The Supreme Court’s decision clears the way for the CCC candidates to participate in the election.

The ruling may have an implication on the case of Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi, a ZANU PF member, in which a voter applied to have him disqualified.