By-The country’s biggest opposition, Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), has hinted at announcing the names of 2023 election candidates after concluding the vetting process in all constituencies and council wards across the country.

The party said it is now consulting party members to find the best candidates to represent the party.

CCC initially announced it would reveal its candidates on 11 April but later said announcing the names may expose the candidates to attacks by ZANU PF members. Fadzayi Mahere the party’s spokesperson said:
We can confirm that the process has proceeded smoothly. Candidates have been successfully nominated and vetted for each of these seats (210 constituencies and 1 971 wards). Stakeholders have been consulted.
We are currently at the citizen caucus stage where citizens will have a say on who will be the best representative for each respective community.
According to the CCC candidate selection procedures document, the process is in five parts: nomination which happened on 5 April 2023; candidate acceptance confirmation in which nominated candidates were supposed to accept the nomination; candidate vetting and announcement of candidates that would have passed the vetting stage.
The final stage will be consensus-building caucuses before the official announcement of victorious candidates who will represent the party in general elections set for August this year.
Mahere said CCC is confident of winning the upcoming general elections. She said:
We are well on course to ensure the citizens’ movement is competently and ethically represented in every community of Zimbabwe.
The citizens will have the opportunity to put a permanent end in the ballot box to the repression, persecution, hunger and poverty created by ZANU PF.
A CCC government will usher in a new Great Zimbabwe with leaders who will deliver dignity, freedom and prosperity for all.
Meanwhile, an Afrobarometer survey in February this year revealed that the opposition had a four-point advantage (48%) over the ruling ZANU PF (44%) in voting preferences.

By- Serious divisions have rocked President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ruling Zanu PF home province of Midlands following controversial primary elections that were marred by vote rigging and violence.

The Standard reports that Zanu PF has since lined up a series of crisis meetings to cool simmering tensions and divisions following the chaotic primary polls.
It emerged that party members were shunning meetings called by some party candidates triggering fears of protest votes in the upcoming elections.
In Gokwe, former Cabinet minister Flora Buka, who beat sitting Gokwe-Nembudziya legislator Justice Mayor Wadyajena on Friday called for a meeting that was attended by 17 party supporters, The Standard has established.
Zanu PF held primary elections last month, but was forced to conduct re-runs in five constituencies and 27 wards two weeks later following complaints that the initial polls were rigged.
Some party heavyweights such as Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Wadyajena fell by the wayside.
The party received complaints of gross voter malpractices from over 150 of the 210 constituencies across the country, raising fears that this could be Zanu PF’s worst run internal poll in recent years.
Developments across the country show that the ruling party is failing to quickly heal after the primaries with some members now shunning party meetings.
There has been a very low turnout of supporters in meetings called by the new candidates, forcing the party to deploy senior members to try to unite provincial and district structures.
Midlands and Masvingo, largely viewed as presidential contest deciders, are the most hit with internal communication showing that top party member Lovemore Matuke, who is in charge of security in the politburo, is heading to Midlands on Tuesday to try and address the fissures.
Matuke will address the provincial chairman, provincial commissar and his deputy, provincial secretary for security and the top six of all the eight district coordinating committees and executive committees in Midlands.
All the 28 party candidates for the National Assembly have also been summoned to the crunch meeting.
“Please be advised that there will be a special meeting to be addressed by the national secretary for security Cde L. Matuke and members of his delegation on (Tuesday) May 16, 2023 Time: 11am Venue: The Midlands Convention Centre — Gweru,” the notice reads.
“The meeting will discuss issues in regard to challenges being encountered by constituencies or matters related to lack of cohesion after the party primaries.”
Matuke, when contacted for comment, yesterday said party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa would issue a detailed statement.
Mutsvangwa was not reachable for comment.
Another notice addressed to Wadyajena, the DCC chairperson and senior provincial member, Edson Chiherenge, confirmed the party’s fear over the “activities of the CCC in Gokwe North”.
“Please be advised that after noting the activities of the opposition party (CCC) in Gokwe North the province saw it fit to deploy the provincial commissar (Maud Gwenya) and her entourage to address meetings in the troubled areas you are to identify.
“The provincial commissar will be at your disposal from the afternoon of (Thursday) May 11, 2023 to (Saturday) May 13, 2023.”
Zanu PF supporters told The Standard that most people were snubbing the party because they felt the elections were rigged.
The party’s primaries were run by Forever Associate Zimbabwe (FAZ), controlled by the Central Intelligence Organisation and Heritage, which is linked to the army.
FAZ, led by CIO deputy director general Walter Tapfumaneyi had the major say in the elections, according to a Zanu PF internal document titled Talking Points dated March 27.
Mnangagwa has been coy about the election dates, but on Friday he indicated that the polls would be held in August.
A poll by a London-based public relations organisation, the SABI Strategy Group that was commissioned by the South African Brenthurst Foundation late last year said 53% of respondents said they would vote for the 45 year-old Citizens Coalition for Change leader Chamisa while 40% said they would vote for the incumbent.
An Afrobarometer survey in February this year said the opposition enjoyed a four point advantage (48%) over the ruling Zanu PF (44%) in voting preferences.
-Standard

By-The MDC T leader Douglas Mwonzora has launched a fresh bid to postpone upcoming elections by approaching the High Court on Friday to stop President Emmerson Mnangagwa from proclaiming poll dates.

Last week, the ConCourt dismissed a related application by Mwonzora.
He had sought nullification of a delimitation report on new constituency boundaries that was gazetted in February, arguing it was done unprocedurally
His application was heard by a full Constitutional Court bench led by Chief Justice Luke Malaba.
On Friday, he filed yet another application seeking to have the final delimitation report declared invalid.
In his application, Mwonzora claimed the delimitation report was flawed and contained irregularities such as the opaqueness of the exercise in coming up with new boundaries.
“The delimitation report, because of its invalidity is not sufficiently informative,” Mwonzora submitted.
“I also will need to plan where to hold rallies and other meetings.
“The current delimitation report does not inform me, for example, how many people were 17 years old at the time of delimitation, but who are now 18 years old this year.
“This information will help me concentrate on where to encourage voter registration for my campaign.”
There has been controversy surrounding the delimitation report, with opposition parties and election watchdogs accusing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) of using a wrong formula to redraw electoral boundaries.
The last delimitation was done ahead of the 2008 elections.
“The current delimitation report does not show, for example, how many people are 13 years of age and who will be 18 years in 2028,” Mwonzora said.
“This will help me to plan for that election as well…because of its non-compliance with section 161 of the constitution, the current delimitation report is invalid and cannot be the basis of a free and fair election as contemplated by our constitution.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday said elections were going to be held in August.
Mwonzora last week reacted angrily to the ConCourt ruling.
In an interview with Heart and Soul TV, Mwonzora accused the ConCourt of making a political ruling.
“Judges in this country have made political decisions and I could say it in front of the Constitutional Court itself,” Mwonzora said.
“It was not a sensible judgment and it is certainly political.
“It is meant to avoid an embarrassment on the electoral body and therefore if judges do that, we must point that out and we must condemn it and that is why we are saying that we don’t agree with what the Constitutional Court did.”
Analysts accused Mwonzora of trying to torpedo the constitution on the holding of general elections.
“He was aware that elections can’t be postponed and is trying to ride on a good cause to achieve an evil outcome,” said human rights activist and Project Vote 263 founder, Youngerson Matete.
Harare-based lawyer Edwin Saungare said Mwonzora’s application was likely to be overtaken by events.
“If it’s an ordinary application, by the time it will be heard the president would have announced date for elections and the elections would be done and this application will be moot,” Saungare said. Standard

By-President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Sunday attended the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa – Forward in Faith Ministries International (ZAOGA-FIF) founder Ezekiel Guti’s centenary celebrations at Glamis Arena in Harare.
Guti recently turned 100.
Mnangagwa paid tribute to Guti for his 75 years of preaching the Gospel and 63 years of ZAOGA’s existence in his address. He said:
On this occasion, we have gathered here to witness history. I am honoured to be part of this occasion.
We are also commemorating 75 years of preaching and 63 years of ZAOGA church.
Developments in the church are clear testimony of grace upon Ezekiel Guti. We join the country in celebrating this historic moment.
We are all witnessing this through the works of this great church. I wish to congratulate you on behalf of the country and my family on this centenary celebration of your birth.

By-The opposition MDC-T President Douglas Mwonzora has again approached the High Court seeking the postponement of the upcoming elections.

Last week, the ConCourt dismissed a related application by Mwonzora.
He had sought nullification of a delimitation report on new constituency boundaries that was gazetted in February, arguing it was done unprocedurally
His application was heard by a full Constitutional Court bench led by Chief Justice Luke Malaba.
On Friday, he filed yet another application seeking to have the final delimitation report declared invalid.
In his application, Mwonzora claimed the delimitation report was flawed and contained irregularities such as opaqueness of the exercise in coming up with new boundaries.
“The delimitation report, because of its invalidity is not sufficiently informative,” Mwonzora submitted.
“I also will need to plan where to hold rallies and other meetings.
“The current delimitation report does not inform me, for example, how many people were 17 years old at the time of delimitation, but who are now 18 years old this year.
“This information will help me concentrate on where to encourage voter registration for my campaign.”
There has been controversy surrounding the delimitation report, with opposition parties and election watchdogs accusing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) of using a wrong formula to redraw electoral boundaries.
The last delimitation was done ahead of the 2008 elections.
“The current delimitation report does not show, for example, how many people are 13 years of age and who will be 18 years in 2028,” Mwonzora said.
“This will help me to plan for that election as well…because of its non-compliance with section 161 of the constitution, the current delimitation report is invalid and cannot be the basis of a free and fair election as contemplated by our constitution.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday said elections were going to be held in August.
Mwonzora last week reacted angrily to the ConCourt ruling.
In an interview with Heart and Soul TV, Mwonzora accused the ConCourt of making a political ruling.
“Judges in this country have made political decisions and I could say it in front of the Constitutional Court itself,” Mwonzora said.
“It was not a sensible judgment and it is certainly political.
“It is meant to avoid an embarrassment on the electoral body and therefore if judges do that, we must point that out and we must condemn it and that is why we are saying that we don’t agree with what the Constitutional Court did.”
Analysts accused Mwonzora of trying to torpedo the constitution on the holding of general elections.
“He was aware that elections can’t be postponed and is trying to ride on a good cause to achieve an evil outcome,” said human rights activist and Project Vote 263 founder, Youngerson Matete.
Harare-based lawyer Edwin Saungare said Mwonzora’s application was likely to be overtaken by events.
“If it’s an ordinary application, by the time it will be heard the president would have announced date for elections and the elections would be done and this application will be moot,” Saungare said. Standard

The UK based property scheme ringleader, Sithule Tshuma’s own lawyer has expressed affirmations over revelations that her Mthuli Ncube supported Qoki program is totally fraudulent, a term publicised by one of the founders.

Writing in a WhatsApp group, Zibusiso Ncube, connecting to another lawyer’s findings, sounded concerns only over what he said is “panic” that the ZimEye news piece causes. He went further to narrate that there is no malice whatsoever in the article, adding that his only disputation is what he terms ‘a design to defame,’ not the factual contents revealed in the Friday night piece, an investigation conducted over the last 3 years now set for litigation in UK courts. Zi Ncube’s opinion, connected to that of another lawyer who managed to obtain a USD6,000 quick refund from the Qoki company.

The lawyer writes to ZimEye stating as follows:

I just wanted to comment on this story. I’m based in Australia and helped my mother exit this scheme some time last year. I’m a SA trained lawyer based in Australia, when my mother who’s based in Australia as well, who had opened up to me about investing in this scheme, particularly buying a piece of land I became very suspicious and asked her to share all the documents she’d been given, they looked very suspicious and did not detail any sale of land at all. With the assistance of my Zim based colleagues who are lawyers, I obtained a combo at extract of the Qoki company that had purported to purchase this land and I discovered that the directors were Sithule and others. My mother and none of the members of that scheme were shareholders, so I then started to question the basis upon which they were entitled to the land in the absence of a shareholders agreed or any memorandum of understanding setting out the initial terms of this transaction.

I reached out to Sithule who was very aggressive and I then immediately told my mother to withdraw from the scheme and obtain her whole investment of approx US$6k. I wrote a letter to Qoki via Sithule and their lawyer; it took about a week or two to get the money back. Thankfully, all of it was refunded.

My other suspicions on the Qoki schemes were that it was a ponzi type scheme, which also flagged some potential money laundering concerns.

I’m glad this has finally come to light. I wish I could have had the chance to tell you guys about the story then but I didn’t know how or who to report this to. What upset me was looking the whole Qoki and Sithule business on Facebook and seeing how they kept luring people and people genuinely believed in it.

I’m happy to provide you with a detailed account should you wish a formal comment on this story.

Many thanks
Tawanda

– ORIGINAL ARTICLE BELOW –

By Investigative Correspondent | Fraud, fraud, fraud: title deeds that never come, and shares that don’t even exist – A UK based property scam went on for 5 years while being advertised as a multiple-director run community organisation, when it was just a single person’s business, that traps buyers through ‘the instalment-concept’ in the place of an outright purchase. (video)

The entity popularly known as “QOKI ZINDLOVUKAZI GROUP C.I.C” was no CIC at all, and clearly no multiple director entity, contrary to what its owner Sithule Tshuma claimed it was. (A CIC under UK law is a community interest company).

Running the Julian-Condlife-consulted entity using bullying techniques synonymous with church cults, the NHS nursing practitioner managed to convince hundreds of “investors” to believe her claim that she was running a community interest company, when the entire joint was just a private business designed to routinely squeeze out more money under the guise of never-ending development expenses, as victims would be made to pay more after their full figure has been settled.

So deceptive was the program that even one of the Qoki founders, popularly known under the alias, Ndaba Nhuku owned up to ZimEye, saying his own siblings would never buy property through Sithule Tshuma’s Qoki company, a development that’s seen a group of some of the best UK solicitors describing the scheme as a scam, just as they now offer to assist pro bono.

The story starts around 2016 when a (self-acclaimed blesser) UK based fraud accused lawyer, Julian Condliffe, and a nurse, Sithule Tshuma were running a property-lure venture advertising saying they were empowering women or blessing them so that they get their first title deeds.

[ARE YOU ALSO A FRAUD VICTIM AND WANT TO CLAIM YOUR MONEY? CLICK THE LINK OR EMAIL THE EDITOR] 

Fast forward to 2017, Sithule Tshuma would start the formal company, flanked by the so called “investor, property solicitor, blesser,” Julian (Julie) Condliffe, and Tshuma’s male colleague, who is the so called Ndaba Nhuku (not real name).

The organisation was launched on 22 April 2017 under the expertise of property solicitor, and so called investor, Julian Condliffe who announced promises using religious language that the recruits were to be blessed or empowered by her (Julian Condliffe).

Condliffe also provided expert training to the several female attendants at Crowne Plaza Hotel, in Manchester City.

Sithule Tshuma would soon start claiming that the company has numerous directors. She would also claim that purchases of land done by her company will have undergone due diligence processes, which was not true. Anyone who questions or requests for clarity would and continues to be bullied and labelled titles such as ‘an enemy of progress.’

As a result, hundreds of investors are now facing an uncertain future without either title deeds or ownership-paperwork having paid over lumpsums to try securing their promised investments. The total prejudice runs in the millions of dollars. Each investor paid amounts between USD7,000 and USD70,000 per person.

The first group of several “investors” has listed areas of deception by Sithule Tshuma, being:

1. Fake Community Organisation advertised as so when it is just a single individual’s property. While Sithule Tshuma displayed her company under the prefix, CIC, which title is reserved only for companies with at least 3 directors or trustees, she also proclaimed saying she has many directors on her board when there is only one, herself.

2. Incomplete or skimpy contracts that were only signed by one party, that is: “we signed contracts adhering to payments, however, the company or Sithule did not return the signed contract to us,” as said.

Evasive answers – anyone who questions and requires for clarity was quickly shut down and on social media bullied using the term, ‘an enemy of progress.’

3. Running coordinated bullying on social media while failing to answer simple questions over products asked by a broadcaster, Ezra Sibanda. Sithule Tshuma ran various bullying campaigns against people asking her simple questions, requiring a yes or no answer.

4. Diverting conversations from Ezra Sibanda when they could have been handled there., and taking out on another journalist who was not even working on her stories. Is that normal behaviour, and not a fraudulent one?

5. 3 years later, why have you not publicised clearly to these customers that the products they are buying into are not divisible, and that they also stand to lose all their money in the event of loss of life?

6. Why are investors, who make inquiries of clarity on many of these unclear things being punished by being removed from WhatsApp groups, if it is not to bully and subdue their will power?

7. Are you not running a cult that’s simply enslaving its members?

Properties bought over the period 2016 to 2023 are still to be issued title deeds over to the buyers, and anyone who complains is bullied and harassed while being regularly ordered to pay money for land development and maintenance.

They include:

Nondwene 1 96 Ladies
Nondwene 2. 89 ladies
Douglasdale 1. 46 ladies
Douglasdale 2 82 ladies
Douglasdale 3 – 38 ladies
Douglasdale 4 – 65 ladies
Esigodini plots 20 ladies
Esigodini Girls high 36 ladies
Riverside 80 ladies
Qoki school 30 ladies
Qoki Plumtree Services (had 44 in May 21 when I left )
Airport road plots 1
Airport road plots 2 (24 ladies plus Sithule Tshuma)
Woodville
Burnside
Qoki Hotel and Golf Course, 50 ladies
QokisDale Nyamandlovu Farm, 52 ladies
Qoki Trucks, 24 investors

Qoki Synergy

Hwange Filling station 46 ladies.
Plumtree Filling station 30 ladies.
Qoki Butcher and bakery.
Qoki Market.
Qoki Lamanzi Borehole.
Qoki South Africa Bank 20 ladies.
Qoki Coaches 30 ladies.
Qoki Express Grocery.

In her audios, Tshuma continued to claim that her property purchases undergo the due diligence procedure.

A content audit of audio messages by Sithule Tshuma impressing investors to pay up for land purchases, reveals rapturous high-pitched repetitions of the following cluster of electric/emotive statements, tucked at the end by a non-conclusive that tries to insulate them by saying, “it’s entirely up to you what you do with your money.”

The cluster of electric pitched up to [A# Minor, and D#Minor] repetitions contain such as follows:

“Our solicitors (lawyers) have done background checks…we don’t buy dodgy land… all we want is land… each person gets title deeds for their land… it takes roughly about a month… then that’s when subdivision begins… we are buying land together… but it will fall under Qoki… all the land will be used up…
we work with the council… we check title deeds prior… this is private land that we buy and then we subdivide… you shouldn’t contact the seller, because others have done it and then we’ve lost the land in the end… so it’s entirely up to you to trust us… we don’t buy dodgy land, the land is checked, everything if its good land, that’s why we work with city council, if its dodgy land you don’t even engage the city council, they won’t just going to build… thina, we work with city council, thats ukuthi… u town planner, who works at city council, everything is done city council, by abantu e city council… so, but I am not going to give you (details) of who is the seller because our lawyer has done that because I don’t want a situation where I tell you who is the seller and then we end up jeopardising the land… ”

LAWYER’S FRAUDULENT ASSURANCE. Sithule Tshuma’s lawyer Zibusiso Charles Ncube in the conversation would at the end on his own assure buyers that per Tshuma’s words, he has truly done background checks on a piece of land owned by a ‘White guy’, indicating that, after paying the full purchase price they are going to get the Title Deeds which they (buyers) however still do not have to date.

Even the very title deed for the farm land, is still to be delivered 2 years later, as the one the lawyer supplied on 22 April 2021 was invalid, according to the Deeds Office.

Using religious terms, Zibusiso Charles Ncube posting an audio message in the WhatsApp group said in full on 1 Jan 2021, “Good evening ladies, the sun is set where I am, and I can safely say, happy new year; we want to thank the Lord for bringing us this far, it’s been a very tough year, but look, the Lord has been gracious and is still gracious, and I pray that He gives each and every one of us a prosperous, and definitely better 2021;

“Alright, Nondweni ladies, we made another instalment payment today. In terms of the subdivision of the property, we ate into the seller’s property, I think we ate into the seller’s property by 7 hectares.

“But he is an understanding guy.

“He is a fella that I also go to church with, he is Adventist.

“He is understanding, he is excited by the way we actually handled the transaction and is actually even considering selling off the entire property onto us, so with Nondweni the next stage is once we complete the instalments, and we pay the purchase price in full we shall move on now to take title (deed).

“Remember this is needed this what do you call this? A Certificate of No Present Interest, Mr Majoko the seller’s legal practitioner is handling that; I will touch base with him in the turn of the year, probably in the first week, to ascertain how far we have gone, I think we had given him up to the end of January, to procure that document, but otherwise i think we are on course.

“I believe there are surveyors who are also on the ground, they should be able to give us updates in terms of what they are doing, but otherwise I am happy with the way that we are progressing, let’s continue united as we are, and very soon we will be through. Otherwise, well done ladies, let’s keeping on!”

My own sister I told her don’t buy this kind of land

However, commenting over the development, Ndaba Nhuku told ZimEye, the Qoki method is neither reliable nor credible. He said: “… all the people who go to Qoki they opt in as individuals, they are not forced. There is no coercion, like in a church. You are asked you want to buy land, you want to buy land, you are told, this is what is available guys. Do you want to join? They join on their own.

“In land, there will be 10. 10 women. They won’t be many people.

“So, it’s not as straight forward as people who come to you complaining, whether they are 100 or what. They just want to use you, if they use you fair and fine. And then people like me will come and defend Sithule.

“Because Qoki, I founded it, and I know the principles behind Qoki. I am the founder of them, just like I told Ezra. Qoki is my baby, when I defend it I defend it knowing what is happening inside it, and knowing what. My own sister I told her don’t buy this kind of land. Go and buy your own land individually, because this land takes long to divide, the council wants you to meet certain requirements and its exhausting for an individual to make it. And all those people were told that we shall do this, do this, but they like paying small amounts, yes small amounts come with so many tags, it becomes exhausting, for people who don’t have resources who work. So, in a nutshell this is what happens with land bought by groups…”

Meanwhile, Sithule Tshuma who is on record declaring that her company is a community interest entity that has different directors, did not comment. On 1 April 2021, Tshuma, in a WhatsApp group with her lawyer Zibusiso Charles Ncube, said in part: “Even if anything had to happen to me, God forbid Qoki is an organisation with different directors. It’s a registered organisation with different directors ladies and it’s well known that Qoki is you people not an individual thing or company or whether its got different directors. The lawyers represent Qoki, not an individual, if I am making sense.”

It is this falsehood that has woken investors up following the initial investigation by VOA journalist, Ezra Sibanda.

Meanwhile, Sithule Tshuma’s lawyer Zibusiso Charles Ncube who continued to act as a sales advocate for her, repeatedly stressing a claim that Miss Tshuma is not at all fraudulent in her business so investors must pay all and any new charges forced on the investors.

When Ncube was asked by ZimEye, he reported back via phone saying the clear contradictions between Sithule’s claim to organisational structure and reality, are empty allegations being raised by the media. WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW.

Zibusiso Charles Ncube has since been reported to the Law Society Of Zimbabwe.

The investigation continues. [ARE YOU ALSO A FRAUD VICTIM AND WANT TO CLAIM YOUR MONEY? CLICK THE LINK OR EMAIL THE EDITOR] 

By-The Julius Malema-led Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF, is demanding the expulsion of the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety, for allegedly interfering in the country’s internal affairs.
The call comes after Brigety last week alleged that supplied had supplied weapons and ammunition for its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
In a statement, EFF reminded Ambassador Brigety that South Africa had the “sovereign right to determine who she trades with and who her friends are.” Reads the statement:
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemns the contemptuous imperialist talk of the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety on several foreign policy and diplomatic issues which could be handled through the normal diplomatic channels.
We are concerned because lately, the US Embassy in South Africa seems to be leaning towards interference with domestic and sovereign foreign policy issues that cannot and will not be dictated by an external force.
In his latest ranting, the US Ambassador hysterically demonized South Africa’s relationship with the Russian Federation and out of context spoke about the Lady R Vessel which docked in Simonstown in December 2022.
The South African Ministry of Defence has already clarified in December 2022 that the Vessel came to collect the orders made before the COVID-19 pandemic and it is consistent with international best practice to honour contractual trade obligations and relationships.
The US has absolutely no right and permission to interfere with South Africa’s sovereign right to determine who she trades with and who her friends are.
The EFF’s diplomatic and firm advice to the US Ambassador Reuben E Brigety is that he must SHUT UP on all sovereign policy decisions and relationships South Africa engages in.
South Africa is not a colonial outpost of the US and will never be one. South Africa will not be under imperialist control by the US, and the sooner this sitting Ambassador understands that the better.
The EFF is additionally concerned about Ambassadors who call Media Conferences to speak about issues that could have been handled through normal diplomatic channels.
Instead of raising false alarms with the media and making reflections on the domestic policy position of a political party, the US Ambassador should have approached the government to clarify his confusion.
There are several embassies and foreign missions from different countries in South Africa and none of them have demonstrated the misbehaviour and ill-discipline of Ambassador Reuben E Brigety.
We therefore call for the immediate dismissal of the US Ambassador from South Africa for his unbecoming, undiplomatic and outrightly irresponsible approach to diplomatic relations.
There have been US ambassadors in South Africa before and none have ever descended into the gallery in the manner demonstrated senselessly by Reuben E Brigety. He must be dismissed as urgent as possible.
The United States has no right, none whatsoever, to tell South Africa what must happen with President Vladimir Putin.
If there are people who must be arrested and appear before the International Criminals Court, it is US former President George Bush for the illegal war in Iraq and Barack Obama for the senseless assassination of Brother Leader Muammar Gadaffi.
There is no one who is going to arrest President Putin in South Africa and there is no imperialist nation that will instruct South Africa to do.
Finally, the usage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a mechanism to bully South Africa or any country into imperialist compliance is unacceptable.
South Africa’s current biggest trading partner is the People’s Republic of China, and not once did we ever hear the Chinese embassy and ambassador instruct South Africa who else to trade with and what foreign policy decisions to take.

By- A member of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) who vomited and damaged restaurant property in Bulawayo has been given a warrant of arrest after he defaulted court last Tuesday to answer to charges of malicious damage to property.

Ms Nomagugu Maphosa issued the warrant of arrest to Imagine Chisiyiwa (23), whose rank was not given in court, who is stationed at Induna Barracks on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
According to the State, allegations are that on 25 March this year at about 1am at a Chicken Inn outlet at the corner of Jason Moyo Street and 8th Avenue in Bulawayo, Chisiyiwa vomited at the fast food outlet seating place and was told to clean the mess by one of the staff members. A misunderstanding ensued and the accused followed one of the staff members to the manager’s office, intending to assault him.
Chisiyiwa then allegedly damaged the screen gate by forcibly pulling it using his hands causing it to fall down. He was arrested and taken to Bulawayo Central Police Station before being sent to court. He was initially remanded out of custody to 9 May, but failed to appear in court on the said date leading to the issuance of the warrant of arrest. The total value of the property damaged is yet to be ascertained.

By- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has hinted at the dates of holding this year’s general elections.

Mnangagwa said the much-anticipated polls will be held in August.

He said this while addressing Zanu PF supporters who had come to witness the commissioning of the Rwenya Bridge, which was swept away in 2013.
Said Mnangagwa:
Let’s keep our heritage by voting for ZANU PF. Elections will be held in August, I am releasing a little bit of information.
Last month President Mnangagwa said he will announce the election date before the end of May.
Addressing the same gathering, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said the 2023 harmonised elections will take place as scheduled. He said:
This election is coming. It is not reversible. We ought to hold these elections in a peaceful environment.
This is our country. We do not know of any other country other than Zimbabwe.
Elections come and go but our relations will remain so we do not want political violence.
My message is I will vote for President Mnangagwa. Who are you going to vote for?
We should vote for President Mnangagwa and ZANU PF MPs and councillors.
Here in Mudzi, you should vote for Cde Jonathan Samkange as our Member of Parliament in Mudzi South.
The general elections must be held between 26 July and 26 August, to comply with Constitutional regulations that the election must come not more than 30 days after the expiry period of the current Parliament.
Current laws also stipulate that a proclamation can only be made 44-88 days before the election date.

This is a call to prayer warriors in #Zimbabwe and beyond. Heath Streak, one of the greatest cricketers our nation has ever produced, is extremely ill and needs our prayers. Please could we all be in prayer for him and his family.

By-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued an amnesty to prisoners serving time for non-violent offences who had served at least one-third of their jail term by Independence Day last month.

According to the state media, this is a measure of decongesting prisons now holding more than 22 000 prisoners.
The country’s prisons have a carrying capacity of 17 000 and Presidential clemency has been used several times in the past to reduce the prison population.
The Clemency Order No 1 of 2023 was gazetted yesterday under General Notice 672B of 2023 issued by the Permanent Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs Virginia Mabiza.
The order excludes a range of prisoners, mainly violent criminals and men serving more than four years, while qualifying more women, juveniles, those with terminal illnesses and prisoners over 60.
Some men serving longer sentences can have their sentences reduced and some, but not all, excluding violent prisoners, can be released if they have served at least three quarters of their effective sentence.
All prisoners under sentence of death and on death row for 10 years have had their sentence reduced to life imprisonment and those serving life imprisonment who have served at least 20 years can be released.
Blind and disabled prisoners also go free.
The reduction of sentences to time served for those who qualify is not a pardon, since the record of their conviction and sentence stands and will almost invariably mean a much longer sentence should they reoffend in future.
Even in the present clemency order, those who were released early as a result of previous orders but then reoffended cannot benefit this time and must stay to serve the full sentence.
Executive clemency is one of those presidential powers that require Cabinet consent and usually originates in a recommendation from the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs.
Prisoners barred from clemency and who have to stay in jail and serve their full terms are: those previously released on amnesty; those sentenced by courts martial; those with a record of escaping from lawful custody; and those convicted of committing one of the specified offences, which include most violent crime.
The specified offences listed in the order include: murder, treason, rape or any sexual offence, carjacking, robbery, public violence, human trafficking, unlawful possession of firearm, contravention of the Electricity Act, contravention of the Postal and Telecommunications Act, contravention of the Public Order and Security Act or the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act. The order makes it clear that those who conspired, incited or attempted any of the specified offences also stay behind bars.
According to the order, a full remission of the remaining period of imprisonment is granted to all convicted female prisoners, save for those convicted of specified offences so long as they had served one third of the sentence by 18 April this year.
All juveniles under the age of 18 go free so long as they had served a third of the sentence by 18 April with only those convicted of public violence staying inside. Age determination will be based on the birth certificate or dental age estimation.
Male prisoners who were sentenced to 48 months and below and have served one third of their sentence by April 18 can be released provided they were not convicted for specified offences. Those serving effective sentence above 48 months and have served at least one third of the sentence, will have their sentences reduced by a quarter unless they are inside for specified offences.
Terminally ill prisoners certified by a correctional medical officer or a Government medical officer go free regardless of offence but the Department of Correctional Services must liaise with Social Welfare so that they continue treatment after release.
Inmates at open prisons were also pardoned regardless of offence. Those aged 60 years and above and have served one tenth of their sentence by April 18 go free unless sentenced to life imprisonment, death or convicted for public violence.
For some of the specified offences, the prisoner can go free “provided the inmate would have served three quarters of the sentence after the usual one third remission by 18 April. But those in jail for public violence, robbery, treason, Electricity Act, Postal and Telecommunications Act and Public Order and Security Act or Maintenance of Peace and Order Act are excluded.
The qualifying period of at least 20 years for prisoners serving life sentences includes any period where they were under sentence of death before their sentence was altered to life imprisonment.
The disabled, those medically certified as blind and those physically challenged to the extent that they cannot be catered for in a prison or correctional environment, will regardless of the offence, go out.

By Farai D Hove | Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday inaugurated the Rwenya Bridge in Mudzi, which is anticipated to improve communication between Mashonaland East province and Nyanga district in Manicaland.

Cyclone Eline ripped away the bridge in 2013, cutting off the two provinces on the northern side.

People on both sides were having difficulty crossing, especially during the rainy season, and many were turning to lengthier ways, like travelling via Harare from Mudzi to Nyanga.

Mnangagwa stated in his keynote speech that his administration would continue to be the driving force behind infrastructure improvements by mobilising domestic resources rather than borrowing from international organisations.

“I am pleased to say we do not owe money to anyone in these projects we are undertaking. We are mobilizing our own resources and using local companies that we have been supporting to develop our country,” said Mnangagwa.

By-A family of 12 from Village Two in Umguza District, Matabeleland North province, is lucky to be alive after eating poisoned isitshwala/sadza on Tuesday evening.

The family members who were rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital in the wee hours of Wednesday with severe diarrhoea and vomiting are said to have left their maize at a local grinding mill as there were no attendants.
One of the family members later returned to the grinding mill to collect the mealie-meal. Police are still investigating what transpired.
In an interview at Mpilo, Ms Rebecca Moyo said the poisoning had left seven adults and five children battling for dear life.
She said if they had delayed getting to the hospital, they could have easily died from dehydration as they were vomiting profusely.
“On Tuesday, my brother James Ncube took a bucket of maize to a local grinding mill and was told to come back later as there were no attendants. Later on, he collected mealie-meal and proceeded to his house.
His wife prepared isitshwala and they ate as a family. At around 6PM, I went to my brother and asked for mealie-meal as I had run out. We stay a few metres from their homestead as we are one family.
“I managed to cook isitshwala which we ate with my grandchildren and we retired to bed. At around 10PM, one of my nephews came knocking at my door saying the whole family had fallen sick suddenly. I rushed there and inquired what they had eaten only to discover that it was isitshwala and vegetables,” said Ms Moyo.
She said the condition kept deteriorating and within a few minutes, everyone was vomiting and taking turns to use the toilet as they had developed severe diarrhoea.
“I then decided to go back to my homestead and check on my grandchildren who were sleeping only to discover that they too were up and vomiting. We then called for help and one neighbour suggested that we all be taken to the hospital.”
Ms Moyo said by the time they left, the children had soiled their blankets and the homes were in a mess as there was vomit all over.
She said the family members got to Mpilo Central Hospital at around 4AM and they were all admitted.
“I am happy because we all got medical attention and after some hours, the seven of us were discharged after we recovered. Our blood pressures were up as well but all adults were treated and discharged. Our children and grandchildren are still admitted but the nurses have assured us that they are recovering well. We are not sure what transpired and how our maize meal got contaminated but we’re grateful that we didn’t die as it could have been worse,” she said.
Ms Moyo said the grinding mill had been serving the community for the past year and no incidents of food poisoning had been reported before.
“We are still in shock and convinced that the mealie-meal had something in it. We hope that the police will get to the bottom of this so that we can move on as a family.”
-Chronicle

By- Mai TT will present her defence in response to allegations that she fraudulently borrowed US$10 000 using hired and stolen vehicles and an invalid passport as collateral.
The prosecution established a case against her, and the court dismissed her application for discharge.
Mai Titi, a Zimbabwean comedian, musician, entrepreneur and MC, allegedly promised to repay the loan by November 2020 after offering a Mercedes Benz vehicle as surety, despite knowing that the car was hired.
After some days, Mai Titi allegedly returned to the lender, Rachel Mhuka and demanded back the car saying it did not belong to her. She rather offered her an Audi Q5 (AFG3701) and an expired passport as surety.
Sometime in January this year, Mhuka was then approached by police from ZRP Rhodesville, who then seized the Audi Q5 saying it belonged to Else Event Car Hire.
Irked by Murata’s actions, Mhuka then lodged a complaint with the police leading to Mai Titi’s arrest.
The defence hearing is set for May 24th.
Mai Titi also faces a separate charge of failing to make payments for an Audi she hired from Else Car Rental. Mai Titi entered into an agreement with Else Car Rental to hire the Audi Q5, but she failed to make weekly payments. The car was recovered from the lender’s residence, where Mai Titi had surrendered it as collateral.

By-Fomer MDC-T senior leader Lilian Temveous has landed a top job in a Zanu PF-affiliated association.

Temveous got appointed as the national secretary responsible for training and implementation in the Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES)’s national executive council in the Midlands province.

Zanu PF said Temveous had been playing an active role in amplifying the call for lifting sanctions on Zimbabwe imposed by some Western countries.

CAES Executive Director Martin Zharare said the appointment of Temveous will help train and enlighten women about the badness of sanctions.

“I would like to take this opportunity to welcome and congratulate the new appointee and wish her all the best in her new portfolio as we all aspire to have illegal sanctions imposed on the Zimbabwean people lifted.
” It is through her dedication, patriotism and resilience in the fight against illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe that we have seen it fit to bestow on her the leadership roll as we move to build a strong and vibrant organisation that is at the forefront of equipping citizens with the necessary skills to rise above the after effects of the economic sanctions and become masters of their own destinies,” said Zharare.
Temveous said she was honoured to be part of the team and vowed to work tirelessly in making sure that sanctions imposed in the country were removed.
“I am excited to be part of the team and we will conduct awareness campaigns across the country enlightening people about the Zidera act,” she said.
“We are going to rope in more women and train them on various income generating projects so that they can sustain themselves and their families. We want to show the world that sanctions will not deter us from making progress and develop our country as patriotic Zimbabweans.”
-Herald

By A Correspondent- The United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) has reported that its party members were violently attacked, injured, robbed and abducted on May 11th, 2023, in Chitungwiza North by suspected ZANU PF thugs while peacefully engaging citizens.

The new political formation led by Elisabeth Valerio reports that it has already started campaigning ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections.

In a statement issued by the party, the five members reported the matter at Harare Central police under RRB number 050595.

Reads the statement:

ZANU PF THUGS ROB, INJURE AND ATTEMPT TO ABDUCT UZA PARTY MEMBERS IN CHITUNGWIZA NORTH

Members of the United #Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) were violently abducted in #Chitungwiza North on 11 May 2023 by suspected ZANU-PF thugs. Our party members, who were peacefully engaging citizens ahead of the elections, were attacked and injured.

The thugs, who were driving a black Honda fit, attacked our party leaders using weapons. The ear of one of our party members was cut with pliers. The victims have since filed a police report at #Harare Central Police Station. We hope that the culprits will be brought to book and will face the full weight of the law.

The suspected ZANU-PF members, one of whom is said to be an aspiring MP candidate, attempted to abduct our team of five members. The culprits hijacked our party vehicle and drove our members an estimated 11km out of Chitungwiza in an abduction attempt. They also robbed our members of their cash, cell phones and other personal items.

We express our deepest concern for our Harare provincial youth leader who had to receive stitches today due to injuries sustained during the attack. All five of our members sought medical care and counseling following the attack.

As UZA, we stand in solidarity with our party members and will not be deterred by such acts of violence. This is an affront to democracy and the principles of peaceful and free campaigning. We call upon all political parties to condemn such violent acts and to ensure that peaceful and fair elections are upheld. #Violence has no place in a democratic society. UZA urges everyone to exercise restraint and uphold the principles of a politically plural society in which all political parties are entitled to carry out peaceful election campaigns.

Tinashe Sambiri

Citizens have the capacity to rebuild the economy.

This was said by CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa on Thursday.

Citing the GNU era, President Chamisa pointed out how the economy can be transformed through sound policies.

“IT’S DOABLE.. We have done it before.

During the GNU, we had the highest economic growth rate with an average annual growth rate in excess of 10% during the 5 year period. We can do it again and even better.

Give us a chance to change your life and fortunes,” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.

By A Correspondent- Part of the US$2,7 million seized by seven suspects from a cash-in-transit truck which was transporting ZB Bank cash from Harare to Chinhoyi was used to buy cars for a self-styled prophet in appreciation, a Harare court heard Thursday.

This emerged during the armed robbery trial of the suspects, Shadreck Njowa, 55, Tendai Zuze, 35, Neverson Mwamuka, 35, Trymore Chapfika, 36, Tozivepi Chirara, 28, Dennis Madondo, 30 and Tatenda Gadzikwa, 39, before Harare magistrate Clever Tsikwa.

Suspects struck at Gwebi River Bridge along the Harare-Chirundu Road in January 2021.

The self-styled prophet, John Karembera testified against the suspects saying he was blessed with two vehicles as appreciation for having assisted a person referred to him by Zuze.

The preacher said he was not aware that the vehicles were bought using crime proceeds.

“The second accused (Zuze) summoned me and told me that someone had a surprise for me in the form of a car. I drove from Mutare and he directed me to go to a car sale in Mbare,” he said.

“There was a Hino Truck Dutro and a Toyota Dyna Truck both white in colour.

“When I was back in Mutare I received a phone call from the police who told me that they were conducting some investigations.

“I surrendered the cars at Mutare CID. I can’t really remember the exact date, but I collected them around January 2021.

“The police called me after about 3 or 4 days. I don’t know the relationship between the 2nd accused (Zuze) and Moreblessing Mushore who was said to be the one who had purchased the vehicles for me, but I used to pray for her when she was referred to me for prayers.

“When I surrendered the cars, the police told me that they would give me them back after they finished their investigations, but I have not gotten them yet.

“I am waiting for my cars. I believe that I will get them since I came to testify today.”

The State represented by Lovett Maungira then asked for a postponement, noting that he wanted the lawyers representing the seven suspects to have time to inspect the next exhibit.

Hearing continues on May 16.

By A Correspondent- Gweru magistrate Progress Murandu yesterday sentenced a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) official to a wholly suspended jail term after convicting her of criminal abuse of office.

Mercy Dzvuke (48), a Zimra liaison officer based in Gweru, was accused of extorting US$500 from medical doctor Thomas Ndebele, who had outstanding tax returns.

Murandu sentenced Dzvuke to 18 months and suspended nine months on condition of good behaviour.

The remaining nine months were set aside on condition that she completes 315 hours of community service at Ascot Secondary School.

The community service commences today.

The State’s case was that on August 2 last year, Dzvuke and Alfred Gwara were conducting compliance checks on tax returns when they visited Ndebele’s surgery.

The duo told Ndebele that failure to submit returns attracted a heavy penalty.

The court heard that Ndebele asked for more time to compile and submit the tax returns.

They then advised Ndebele to engage a tax consultant by the name Nyanhete.

The court further heard that in the process of negotiations, Dzvuke solicited for US$500 so that she could delete the penalties in the Zimra systems.

Ndebele, however, told her that he was financially constrained to meet the demand. In mid-August, Dzvuke allegedly made a follow-up on the bribe.

According to the court, Ndebele made a report to Zimra head office and the organisation tasked Crispen Marengano and Sympathy Chipise to investigate.

The Zimra officials engaged the Criminal Investigation Department in Gweru and set a trap.

On September 1, Ndebele was asked by the police to call Dzvuke advising her to come and collect US$250. Dzvuke went to the surgery to collect the money, but was intercepted by detectives on her way outside.

In her defence during trial, Dzvuke, who was being represented by Reginald Chidawanyikasaid she collected the money on behalf of Nyanhete to assist Ndebele comply with the Zimra tax systems.

Monica Mungweni prosecuted

By A Correspondent- The city of Bulawayo is in shock after a man allegedly killed his estranged wife in cold blood while she had their baby strapped to her back. According to fresh details that have emerged, the man identified as Pascal Dube stabbed his wife, Ms Aquiline Sadziwa, 34 times with a kitchen knife before crushing her head with a large stone.

On separation at the time of the attack

The Sunday News reports that the couple was reportedly on separation when the attack occurred. Ms Sadziwa was residing at her lodgings when Dube committed the heinous crime at around 9 pm on April 22. The reason for the attack is still unknown, and Dube is still on the run after he disappeared following the alleged crime.

Baby unharmed but drenched in blood

During the attack, the couple’s baby was strapped to Ms Sadziwa’s back, and although unharmed, the infant was drenched in blood.

Speaking at a church service held at the scene of the murder, Mr Tonderayi Chingonzo, the uncle to Ms Sadziwa, revealed that the police discovered 21 stab wounds when they arrived at the murder scene. However, they discovered 13 more when the body was taken to the United Bulawayo Hospitals mortuary for a post-mortem.

Knife’s blade separated from the handle

According to Mr Chingonzo, Ms Sadziwa was stabbed until the knife’s blade separated from the handle. He described the extent of the attack as something he had never seen before. “Even an animal cannot be killed like that,” he said.

Stone used to crush her head

When police arrived at the murder scene, they found a large stone next to Ms Sadziwa’s body, which Dube had allegedly used to crush her head. Mr Chingonzo was overwhelmed by the brutality of the crime, sobbing as he spoke about the ordeal. “I wonder what wrong my niece had done to deserve such a brutal killing,” he said.

Appeal to men

Mr Chingonzo made an emotional appeal to men to consider returning their wives to their families if their marriages were not working. “I beg the young men who are here if you feel you cannot live with your partner or wife anymore, rather take her back to her people. Parents, if you hear your daughter complaining of abuse, take her back because one day it will get to this stage.”

Father seeks closure

Meanwhile, Ms Sadziwa’s father, Mr Michael Sadziwa, is pleading for closure. He is distraught that the Dube family has not yet spoken to them since the death of his daughter. “It is cultural that they come and apologize. They haven’t. It is surprising to me that more than two weeks now no one from his (Pascal) family has come to talk to us. What comes to mind is that maybe it was a well-organized thing with his family. Why are they not coming to talk to me and apologize? I want closure. I want to know what crime my daughter committed to deserve such a painful death,” he said.

Neighbours and friends express sadness

Ms Sadziwa’s neighbours and friends also expressed their sadness at the gruesome crime. Mrs Anic Mhiribidi, a neighbour who attended a local church with the deceased, described Ms Sadziwa as a quiet woman who attended church regularly. “She attended church with us and was very passionate when it came to singing and dancing. We were discussing with other members of the choir that.

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) is soliciting applications for ZEC accreditation in order to carry out voter education. In a notice seen by Pindula News, the Commission said it is extending an invitation to Civic Society Organisations (CSOs), Private Voluntary Organisations (PVOs), and Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs), including those who were previously authorised to conduct Voter Education, to submit new applications for accreditation to the Commission as Voter Educators.

Reads the notice:

ZIMBABWE ELECTORAL COMMISSION

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: ZEC ACCREDITATION TO CONDUCT VOTER EDUCATION

Background The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) is mandated by the Constitution of Zimbabwe (Chapter 12: Section 238) to conduct and supervise voter education. The Commission is inviting Civic Society Organisations (CSOs), Private Voluntary Organisations (PV0s) and Faith Based Organisations (FB0s), including those that were authorised to conduct Voter Education before this date, to submit new applications for accreditation by the Commission as Voter Educators.

Objectives and Expected Outputs/Deliverables

The overall objective of the voter education collaboration between ZEC and CSOs/PV0s/B0s is to strengthen the democratic process through raising awareness on the significance of electoral processes among Zimbabwean voters and increase their participation in elections.

Eligibility criteria for Chic Society Organisations and Private Voluntary Organisations

Requirements for CSOs and PVOs are stipulated In section 40C of the Zimbabwe Electoral Act Chapter 2.13 which specifies that an organisation:

• Must consist wholly or mainly of citizens or permanent residents of Zimbabwe domiciled in Zimbabwe: or

• Must be a lawfully constituted trust, the majority of whose trustees ate of citizens or payment residents of Zimbabwe domiciled in Zimbabwe: and

• Should be an association or trust that must be registered as a private voluntary organisation in terms of the Private Voluntary Organisations Act [Chapter 17:05]: or registered in the Deeds Registry as a trust:

• The organisation must be mandated by its constitution or trust deed, as the case may be, to provide voter education: and

• Must employ individuals who are citizens or permanent residents of Zimbabwe to conduct any voter education, for this the organisation can furnish the Commission with all the names, addresses, citizenship or residence status and qualifications of the individuals who will conduct voter education: and

• Must disclose the manner and sources of funding of its proposed voter education activities: the voter education is subject to section 40F, (hereunder, foreign contributions or donations may be channelled to the Commission for onward allocation) funded solely by local contributions or donations.

• Must satisfy the Commission that it is not otherwise disqualified in terms of subsection (1) from providing voter education.

Eligibility criteria for Faith-Based Organisations

FBOs are also guided by section 40C of the Zimbabwe Electoral Act Chapter 2.13, which specifies that Voter Education:

• Must be conducted by an organisation consisting wholly or mainly of citizens or permanent residents of Zimbabwe domiciled in Zimbabwe:

• Voter education must be conducted in accordance with a course or programme of instruction furnished or approved by the Commission: and

• The voter education materials to be used and the course or programme of instruction in accordance with which the voter education is conducted must be adequate, current, gender-sensitive, correct and not misleading or biased in favour of any political party: and

• The voter education materials to be used and the course or programme of instruction in accordance with which the voter education is conducted must be furnished to the Commission for its scrutiny.

• No fee or charge shall be levied for the provision of voter education or voter education material.

Applications should be sent on or before 19 May 2023 to:

The Chief Elections Officer,

Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) Head Office,

Mahuchi Quantum Building, 1 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Harare, Zimbabwe

Tel: +263 242 774 095/ 759 130/ 779 618 Email: [email protected]

Voter education is crucial because it plays a vital role in ensuring that citizens are informed and aware of their rights and responsibilities as voters. It helps to increase voter turnout, promote transparency, and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

Voter education also helps to prevent electoral fraud and irregularities by empowering citizens to identify and report any suspicious activities. Additionally, it promotes democratic values by encouraging citizens to participate in the democratic process and make informed decisions when selecting their representatives. Overall, voter education is essential for the success and legitimacy of democratic elections.

Zimbabwe has scheduled elections between July 26 and August 26 this year, yet, there are concerns regarding a notable portion of the Zimbabwean population that has not yet registered to vote.

Some analysts also express concern over previous voter patterns. They say the Zimbabwean electorate is disillusioned with election results due to allegations of fraud and irregularities, lack of transparency, politicisation of state institutions, limited political choice, and economic hardship. These factors have allegedly eroded public confidence in the electoral process.

By A Correspondent- A Bulawayo police officer has been charged with failing to pay child maintenance for his two-year-old child, demonstrating that no one is above the law.

Constable Kismet Murevazvivi (31), stationed at Mzilikazi Police Station, has a two-year-old child with Rachel Moyo (26). According to Moyo, Murevazvivi did not contribute financially to the child’s upkeep for the first two years of the child’s life.

Moyo took Murevazvivi to court to compel him to pay child maintenance. The court ordered Murevazvivi to pay $30,000 per month in maintenance.

However, Murevazvivi allegedly failed to make a single payment since February 2022, accumulating arrears of $90,000.

Moyo reported Murevazvivi to police for failing to pay court-ordered child maintenance. Police charged Murevazvivi with failure to pay maintenance, demonstrating that law enforcement applies equally to police officers.

Murevazvivi is set to appear in court to face the charge.

By A Correspondent- Chalington Tichaona Muchero, the 37-year-old son of late national hero Colonel Pride Muchero, appeared in court on charges of illegally possessing ammunition.

According to prosecutors, police detectives received a tip on May 8 that Muchero was selling firearms and ammunition. They followed up and arrested him at a car wash in Chitungwiza.

A search revealed a 9mm air gun with a live round, a knife, handcuffs, and baton inscribed with a police number in Muchero’s vehicle. Detectives also found a briefcase in the vehicle containing Muchero’s documents, his late father’s identification, and 77 live rounds of ammunition.

Muchero had been issued firearm certificates on June 27, 2022 to legally dispose of a 9mm pistol and shotgun. However, prosecutors allege he never actually disposed of the firearms or turned them over to authorities as required.

Muchero was found in illegal possession of the live ammunition and did not have valid certificates authorizing his possession of the ammunition.

Muchero was released on $50,000 bail and ordered to return to court on June 19. He pleaded not guilty to the charge of unlawful possession of ammunition.

By A Correspondent- A man from Mbare took his former friend to court, accusing him of both verbal and physical abuse. Press Chikanga told the court that Leonard Kagunduru had been threatening him on a weekly basis and taking his property without permission.

Chikanga further explained, “He is also threatening to reveal my secrets, which I had confided in him when we were friends. He insults me week in and week out, and I no longer have peace. Sometimes, he takes my school property in Mbare without my consent, and I have warned him that I will report him to the police if he continues to do so.”

In his defense, Kagunduru claimed that he had taken the property only after they had reached a mutual agreement. He also denied threatening Chikanga, alleging that Chikanga was seeking a protection order to avoid paying him the money he owed.

The two men exchanged accusations of betrayal in court, but the presiding Magistrate, Tamara Chibindi, ultimately dismissed the application due to lack of merit.

By A Correspondent- Unknown robbers who stole $55 worth of groceries from a shop in Masvingo are believed to have killed a 65-year-old security guard who was on duty at the time.

The incident took place at Chirambagomo Business Centre in Basera during the night. The victim, Takawira Muguhuri, was found dead with deep cuts on his right leg and the back of his head.

National police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident and stated that the police were searching for the suspects.

Meanwhile, in Makosa, Mashonaland East, Nomore Singano (29) has been arrested for the murder of Zvikomborero Muzengeza (45) who died after being assaulted with fists and feet during a beer drinking binge at a bar in Rwamba Business Centre, Mudzi. The victim had allegedly insulted the suspect.