Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his ex-wife, Sonja Madzikanda, have denied allegations that they acquired Kenyan passports for their children, amid a swelling scandal involving alleged identity fraud and corruption.
Speaking exclusively to ZimEye late Monday, Sonja dismissed circulating video evidence showing her recent travel across Kenya, along with passport details of two minors bearing Kenyan identities.
“Don’t let social media misguide you,” Madzikanda urged. “Why would my kids have Kenyan passports?” she asked, visibly emotional as she attempted to debunk the claims.
The denial came hours after geo-tagged footage emerged showing Sonja moving between locations in Nairobi and Nakuru. Itinerary and video revealed two children’s Kenyan passports, complete with names, photos, and travel logs. While the birth dates on the documents suggest older children, sources say the faces on the passports unmistakably match the Chivayo children.
Contacted for comment, Wicknell Chivayo lashed out at the media, branding the claims “very stupid” and accusing journalists of manufacturing lies. “You’ve run out of lies to report,” he said dismissively.
The controversy is unfolding as Zimbabwean anti-corruption campaigner Blessed Geza has publicly called for Chivayo’s arrest. The businessman’s murky dealings linked to a multi-million-dollar 2015 electricity supply tender, is labelled as just one of many scandals involving state contracts and offshore networks.
Insiders believe Chivayo may be plotting to take refuge in Kenya, where he has been frequently spotted since the beginning of the year—including during informal meetups with Kenyan President William Ruto. His increased travel coincides with the sanctioning of Kamlesh Pattni, Emmerson Mnangagwa’s long-time business ally in Nairobi, over money laundering activities.
Leaked passport records list Chivayo’s son John under the new name “Jubilant Pkalya Longurasia,” and his daughter Manana as “Victoria Chepoghisio Longurasia”—both identities tied to active Kenyan travel documents.
Chivayo is currently the subject of a USD $1 million international bounty, declared by whistleblowers seeking his arrest—dead or alive. He is also accused of playing a central role in a regional election rigging network linked to former Zambian president Edgar Lungu and others.
-REFRESH THIS PAGE FOR MORE – DEVELOPING STORY
ZITF chairperson Busisa Moyo justifying day one state of affairs at ZlTF 2025.
By Munacho Gwamanda-Zimbabweans are gearing up for a national shutdown starting tomorrow, called by fearless and outspoken war veteran Blessed “Bombshell” Runesu Geza, in a renewed bid to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa out of office.
This comes despite the continued detention of over 100 citizens arrested during last month’s protests in Harare, which marked the first wave of anti-Mnangagwa resistance.
Geza, who masterminded the widely observed shutdown in March, is once again rallying Zimbabweans to stay home on 22 and 23 April 2025 in what he describes as a powerful yet peaceful act of defiance.
“On Tuesday and Wednesday, the 22nd and 23rd of April, everyone must stay home. We must shut down Zimbabwe completely,” Geza declared in a viral online broadcast.
“This is to send a strong message to Mnangagwa and his zvigananda. Shops and industries must not open. Kombis should be parked. The police will not teargas you—but if they come, you have the right to defend yourselves.”
In a country where public demonstrations are effectively banned and civil liberties continue to be eroded, Geza argues that stay-aways have become one of the few non-violent tools left for resisting authoritarian rule.
“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will. Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries in the world where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is a powerful weapon,” he said.
Despite a nationwide warrant for his arrest—on charges including theft, incitement to violence, and “undermining the authority of the President”—Geza remains defiant.
Operating from hiding, he has turned to social media to mobilize support, gaining a significant following among unemployed youth, disillusioned war veterans, and ordinary citizens frustrated with the state of the nation.
Geza’s renewed call for action comes as public anger over Mnangagwa’s failed leadership continues to grow.
When Mnangagwa seized power in a 2017 military coup, he promised a “Second Republic” and a break from Robert Mugabe’s authoritarian past.
But nearly eight years later, those hopes have faded.
Zimbabwe’s economy is in freefall.
Inflation is out of control. The Zimbabwean dollar continues to lose value.
Basic commodities are out of reach for many, and civil servants’ salaries are wiped out within days of payment.
Corruption scandals—including the looting of COVID-19 funds, rampant gold smuggling, and shady procurement deals—have gone unpunished, often implicating those within Mnangagwa’s inner circle.
Meanwhile, journalists, opposition leaders, and human rights defenders face relentless harassment and arrest.
Peaceful dissent is criminalized, and the media is tightly controlled.
Mnangagwa is also accused of dismantling democratic institutions to entrench his grip on power.
Parliament has been sidelined.
The judiciary is packed with loyalists. Promised electoral reforms never came to pass.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains discredited after presiding over deeply flawed elections marred by irregularities, intimidation, and vote-rigging.
Internally, ZANU PF is increasingly divided.
Behind Mnangagwa’s strongman image lies a party gripped by factionalism.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—who led the 2017 coup—is said to be quietly consolidating power within both the party and the military.
Tensions between the Mnangagwa and Chiwenga camps are reportedly escalating ahead of the next party congress.
During his Independence Day speech in Gokwe on 18 April, Mnangagwa issued a thinly veiled warning to social media activists accused of “inciting unrest”—a clear jab at Geza and others galvanizing citizens online.
Still, Geza remains undeterred.
“I’m pleading with you to stay home. I know it’s hard—we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”
Ministry of Justice Legal Officer Patience Dhokwani is at pains in trying to explain propaganda on sanctions at the ZITF 2025 trade expo.
By A Correspondent
Norton MP Honourable Richard Tsvangirai is at the forefront of a robust campaign against drug abuse in his constituency.
In a statement on Sunday , Tsvangirai highlighted the efforts made during a Sports Gala, saying, “Today, we held our Sports Gala—a vibrant celebration of talent, energy, and unity.
Beyond the games, we used every avenue available to raise awareness against drug and substance abuse.
It was also the perfect opportunity to connect and engage with young people, listening to their voices and sharing messages of hope, resilience, and responsibility.”
Through such initiatives, Tsvangirai aims to make a positive impact in his community.
ZITF 2025 Pictorial scenes. Exhibitors are still mounting their stands on day one of the trade expo. The fair runs under the theme entitled “industrialization: Crafting an lntergrated Economic Landscape from April 21 to 26. Business days are April 21-23.
By A Correspondent
The death of much-loved comedian Charles Mapalume, affectionately known as Marabha, has been met with a wave of grief across Zimbabwe. However, the sorrow was overshadowed by outrage as some Zanu PF-aligned social media users, known as Varakashi, took to Facebook to mock the late comedian.
Marabha, who passed away over the weekend after a long illness, was a beloved figure in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, known for his iconic skits and comedic timing. But instead of condolences, certain Zanu PF youth supporters used the opportunity to rekindle an old political grudge.
In a widely circulated Facebook post, one Varakashi wrote:
“Ndanzwa kuti kunhamo kwamarabha vanyimwa body vashaya mari $200. Ndozvinoitika izvi ukatuka vakuru. Do you remember video rake President vachiti 2030 ndenge ndichipo iye akati tokumamisa. Now ndiani amamiswa manje. Kunyadzisa nemuguva nemuguva. Respect your elders.”
The post refers to a viral comedy clip from years back in which Marabha was accused of mocking President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision. The Varakashi insinuated that Marabha’s misfortunes were a result of his past “disrespect.”
Another comment added fuel to the fire, stating:
“Zvekunzi afa anaka zviya haa hameno. Uyu akanditukira Baba Vangu murume akarara apo uyu.”
(Translation: “That saying about the dead being good people, well I don’t know. This man insulted my father, now he lies lifeless.”)
The comments sparked widespread backlash from members of the public and social media users who condemned the lack of empathy and politicisation of Marabha’s passing.
“Even in death, this is the cruelty we have to endure,” said one Twitter user. “Marabha made people laugh. He was not a politician. Show some humanity.”
Cultural analysts and media commentators have also weighed in, warning against the growing trend of cyberbullying and the toxic politicisation of public discourse in Zimbabwe.
“Marabha brought joy to many. The attempt to reduce his legacy to a single comedy clip taken out of context is not only unfair but reflects the erosion of values in our political culture,” said media scholar Dr. Tinashe Chikomo.
As preparations for his burial continue, fans and fellow artists have called for Marabha to be remembered for the smiles he brought to millions — not for the political divisions others now try to attach to his name.
By Munacho Gwamanda–Courageous and outspoken war veteran Blessed “Bombshell” Runesu Geza has once again emerged as a bold voice of resistance, calling for renewed nationwide protests to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa out of office.
Geza—who successfully mobilised a nationwide shutdown last month—is now rallying Zimbabweans to stay home on 22 and 23 April 2025, urging them to paralyse the country in a powerful yet peaceful show of defiance.
“On Tuesday and Wednesday, the 22nd and 23rd of April, everyone must stay home. We must shut down Zimbabwe completely,” Geza declared in a viral online broadcast.
“This is to send a strong message to Mnangagwa and his zvigananda. Shops and industries will not open. Kombis will be parked. The police will not teargas you—but if they ever come to you, you have the right to defend yourselves.”
In a country where public demonstrations are effectively banned and civil liberties are under siege, Geza says stay-aways have become one of the last tools citizens can use to resist authoritarian rule.
“Mnangagwa has captured the judiciary and suspended Parliament at will. Zimbabwe is now one of the few countries in the world where the right to protest no longer exists. But we’ve discovered that staying at home is one of the few powerful tools left.”
Despite a national warrant for his arrest—on charges ranging from theft and inciting violence to “undermining the authority of the President”—Geza remains defiant, operating underground and communicating with the public through social media. His rising popularity, especially among unemployed youth and disillusioned war veterans, has rattled the ruling elite.
Geza’s call for action comes as public anger over Mnangagwa’s failed leadership continues to mount.
After taking power through a military coup in 2017, Mnangagwa promised a “Second Republic” and a break from the Mugabe era.
But more than seven years later, the hopes of reform have given way to deepening crisis.
Zimbabwe’s economy remains in freefall.
Inflation is out of control, the Zimbabwean dollar continues to tumble, and basic goods are unaffordable for most citizens.
Salaries of public servants are eroded within days, leaving families to survive on scraps.
Widespread corruption scandals—including the looting of COVID-19 funds, rampant gold smuggling, and dodgy procurement deals—have gone unpunished, with many of the culprits reportedly linked to Mnangagwa’s inner circle.
Meanwhile, journalists, opposition leaders, and human rights defenders face constant harassment, arrest, or worse.
Mnangagwa has been accused of systematically weakening institutions to entrench his power. Parliament is routinely sidelined.
The judiciary is stacked with loyalists. Promised electoral reforms never came. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) remains widely discredited after overseeing sham elections marred by irregularities and intimidation.
Adding to Mnangagwa’s woes is the growing disunity within ZANU PF. Behind his strongman image, the ruling party is in turmoil.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—who led the 2017 coup—is said to be quietly building his own power base within the military and party structures.
Factionalism is deepening, pitting Mnangagwa loyalists against the “Chiwenga camp” in a fierce battle for succession ahead of the next party congress.
Recent incidents, like a state media advert that mistakenly read “Rest in Peace Mnangagwa,” have fueled speculation about internal sabotage and power struggles.
During his 18 April Independence Day speech in Gokwe, Mnangagwa issued a thinly veiled threat against activists using social media to “incite unrest”—a clear swipe at Geza and his growing influence online.
But Geza remains undeterred.
“I’m pleading with you to stay home. I know it’s hard—we’re living from hand to mouth. But this is our only hope to make Mnangagwa hear us. We are staying away to force him to step down.”
By A Correspondent
President Emmerson Mnangagwa surprised the nation on Sunday after he failed to attend the much-anticipated Zion Christian Church (ZCC) annual gathering in Mbungo, sparking a flurry of speculation and political commentary.
Mnangagwa, who was scheduled to address thousands of congregants at the influential religious event, instead sent Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe to deliver his remarks. The unexpected absence came just hours after vocal anti-corruption activist Blessed Geza issued a fiery national address predicting Mnangagwa’s political downfall.
“Mnangagwa will be removed from office within weeks,” Geza boldly declared in his broadcast. “Zimbabwe is not a private company, and we will not be ruled through corruption and fear. The people are awake.”
At the ZCC gathering, Minister Garwe read a prepared speech on behalf of the president, but the move was seen by many as a significant political signal. Social media was abuzz with commentary, with some describing the no-show as a “symbolic retreat” in the face of mounting political and public pressure.
Sources within government told this publication that Mnangagwa’s security team and aides, who had already been stationed at Flamboyant Hotel in Masvingo in preparation for the event, were abruptly ordered to return to Harare on Sunday morning.
A senior official at Benjamin Burombo government complex in Masvingo revealed:
“We were told at the last minute that the President was not coming. His close security detail packed up early in the morning and left. No clear explanation was given, but it caught everyone off guard.”
The absence has fueled speculation that Mnangagwa is under increasing internal pressure, both from within the ruling Zanu PF and from growing public dissent. Some analysts are already dubbing the fallout the “Geza Effect.”
One Political commentator noted :
“This isn’t just about skipping a church service. The ZCC event is a political stage, and his absence sends a loud message — either of caution or crisis.”
As whispers grow louder and the nation watches closely, all eyes are now on how President Mnangagwa will respond to this sudden swirl of political tension and public scrutiny.
By Munacho Gwamanda- Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa and her husband, Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa, have suffered a significant blow in Manicaland’s ongoing factional battles, following the defeat of their preferred candidate by a rival faction aligned with Women’s League boss Mabel Chinomona.
The Chinomona-aligned candidate, Dorothy Mabika, was recently declared the substantive chairperson of the Zanu PF Manicaland Women’s League, decisively beating Mercy Sacco, who had the backing of Monica Mutsvangwa.
With Chinomona’s full support, Mabika secured a landslide victory—reportedly garnering 29 votes to Sacco’s lone vote—further cementing her faction’s dominance in the province.
The election, held on April 6, was meant to replace Happiness Nyakuedzwa, who was suspended from party positions last year.
Despite initial resistance from the Mutsvangwa camp, Mabika’s victory has now been officially endorsed by the national leadership.
A memo confirming Mabika’s appointment was signed by Women’s League Secretary Mabel Chinomona and addressed to Manicaland provincial chairperson Tawanda Mukodza.
It was also copied to high-ranking officials including Zanu PF Secretary-General Obert Mpofu, National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, Monica Mutsvangwa, and Mabika’s rival, Mercy Sacco.
“We are writing to confirm and endorse Cde Mabika as the substantive provincial chairwoman for Manicaland Province with immediate effect,” the memo reads.
Mabika, a seasoned party cadre and former deputy provincial chairperson, expressed humility and gratitude upon her confirmation.
She pledged to focus on women’s empowerment and development projects in support of President Mnangagwa’s agenda, vowing to unite women behind Zanu PF’s vision and to push for an extension of Mnangagwa’s presidency until 2030.
But the election has sparked deep internal rifts, with Chris Mutsvangwa going on the offensive against Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, whom he accused of prematurely announcing the results before party leadership had sanctioned them.
In a scathing letter, Mutsvangwa blasted Muswere for bypassing party protocol by authorizing ZBC and The Herald to publicize Mabika’s victory.
He labeled the move “irregular” and a violation of party procedure, claiming that only his office—as party spokesperson—had the authority to make such announcements.
Yet beneath the procedural outrage lay a more personal motive: Mutsvangwa was fighting for his wife’s faction, which had just been humiliated in a high-stakes intra-party contest.
“The meeting was cancelled,” said one insider, “but the other faction went ahead at an unknown location. There is real fighting in the women’s league. Chinomona supports Mabika, while Monica Mutsvangwa supports Sacco. Now Chris [Mutsvangwa] is fighting in his wife’s corner.”
Observers say Mutsvangwa’s letter was less about party discipline and more about protecting his family’s waning political influence.
His aggressive tone, public rebuke of a cabinet minister, and use of the party’s communications machinery have exposed his desperation to maintain relevance.
“This is not just about Muswere,” a senior Zanu PF official noted. “Chris Mutsvangwa is trying to reassert himself as a power broker in the party. But this was a miscalculated move—and it shows how much he has lost grip.”
Muswere, a youthful minister and MP for Makoni, is widely regarded as one of President Mnangagwa’s rising protégés.
His increasing control over state media narratives suggests a shift in the president’s inner circle—one that favors the younger generation over the liberation-era stalwarts like Mutsvangwa.
“Muswere is part of Mnangagwa’s strategy to build a loyal base,” another source added. “Mutsvangwa knows this, and he’s threatened by it.”
Once instrumental in helping Mnangagwa ascend to power during the 2017 coup that deposed Robert Mugabe, Chris Mutsvangwa’s relationship with the president has since deteriorated.
Party insiders say he now positions himself as a potential successor, leveraging his liberation war credentials and connections among veterans and elites disillusioned with Mnangagwa’s leadership.
Rumors of personal history between Monica Mutsvangwa and President Mnangagwa—long dismissed as gossip—have resurfaced amid the factional fallout, further fueling speculation about the deep, personal stakes in this battle for influence.
“These are not just political fights,” a source said. “These are wars rooted in ambition, betrayal, and survival.”
As the party gears up for a potentially explosive elective congress, the Mutsvangwas’ defeat in Manicaland marks more than just a local political setback.
It signals a broader realignment within Zanu PF, where old alliances are crumbling and new power centers are emerging.
While Mutsvangwa lashes out to defend his wife’s interests, Muswere is quietly consolidating his own—and with the president’s backing, he may be unstoppable.
“This is no longer about protocol,” the party official concluded. “It’s about who controls the future of Zanu PF—and who’sbeing left behind.”
Vatican City — The death of Pope Francis marks not just the end of a papacy, but also the closing chapter of one of the most transformative eras in the modern Catholic Church.
Revered as “the People’s Pope,” Francis, who passed this morning, will be remembered for reshaping the Church’s tone and posture in ways both subtle and profound.
But as the world mourns this towering spiritual figure, a centuries-old process quietly moves into motion — the sacred, symbolic and highly ceremonial rites that follow the death of a pope.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European in more than 1,200 years. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he steered the Church toward humility, social justice, and environmental stewardship, often drawing both admiration and criticism for his candid remarks and reformist zeal.
He emphasized compassion over condemnation and inclusivity over rigidity — a style rooted in the simplicity of his Jesuit background.
In November 2024, just months before his death, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had revised the rites for papal funerals.
His wish was clear: strip away excessive pomp to emphasize the pastoral nature of his mission — “the funeral of a shepherd and disciple of Christ, not of a powerful man of this world,” said Monsignor Diego Ravelli, the Vatican’s master of liturgical ceremonies.
So, what happens when a pope dies?
The first step is certification of death, a solemn task carried out by the Camerlengo, the cardinal who temporarily oversees Church affairs between pontificates.
In this case, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, pronounced the papal name “Franciscus” three times.
When no response followed, the death was declared official. Farrell then notified Cardinal Vicar Baldassare Reina of the Roman Diocese and issued a death certificate.
One of the most symbolic acts comes next: the destruction of the papal ring.
Known as the Ring of the Fisherman, it represents the pope’s authority and is ceremonially crushed with special shears to prevent forgery and mark the end of his reign.
Following tradition, the papal apartments are sealed, a practice that dates back centuries to prevent looting and interference with personal effects and private correspondence.
Pope Francis’ body, dressed in simple papal garments, will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.
This begins the Novemdiales, a nine-day mourning period rooted in ancient Roman traditions.
During this time, daily Masses and prayers are held, culminating in the funeral and burial.
While most popes in recent history have opted for elaborate arrangements, Francis’ own instructions insisted on a modest funeral. Instead of being encased in the traditional triple coffin — cypress, lead, and oak — Francis will be laid to rest in a single, zinc-lined wooden casket, according to Reuters.
He also reportedly declined embalming, favoring a more natural return to the earth, in contrast to many predecessors.
Notably, Pope John Paul II made a similar choice, while Pope John XXIII, embalmed and entombed in an airtight coffin, was famously found to be “incorrupt” when exhumed in 2001.
Until a new pope is elected, the Church enters a period known as sede vacante — the Seat is Vacant.
During this time, the camerlengo and a small group of senior cardinals manage the daily affairs of the Church but cannot introduce new policy or doctrine.
Within 15 to 20 days, the College of Cardinals — all under age 80 — will convene in conclave to elect the next pope.
The process is steeped in secrecy, with ballots burned after each vote. Black smoke signals an inconclusive vote; white smoke tells the world habemus papam — we have a pope.
Francis’ papacy may be over, but his imprint on the Catholic Church and the world will not fade. He was a pontiff who urged the Church to “smell like the sheep,” to walk with the poor, and to serve as a field hospital in a wounded world.
Even in death, his choices — from funeral rites to burial style — reinforce his commitment to simplicity, service, and faith.
As millions of faithful gather, mourn, and reflect, the Church prepares not just to bury a pope, but to carry forward a legacy of mercy, justice, and humility that defined one of its most beloved modern leaders.
Former Zanu PF Central Committee member, Blessed Geza has hinted that controversial businessmen Kudakwashe Tagwirei and Wicknell Chivhayo are among a host of high profile people who are set to be arrested by what he termed “progressive security forces”.
Geza made the announcement this morning while updating the nation ahead of the planned national shutdown set to kickoff on Tuesday.
The former Sanyati legislator who has been leading the fight against President Emmerson Mnangagwa said Tagwirei, Chivhayo, Dilesh Nguwaya, Obey Chimuka and others including Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume will be arrested and charged with corruption.
Earlier on, Geza accused Tagwirei and Chivhayo of capturing Mnangagwa and using him to displace top army bosses opposed to the 2030 agenda.
Geza also announced that he has intelligence that Mnangagwa through Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi will be tabling before cabinet, the amendments to the constitution before they are taken to parliament and the public.
He said Zanu PF wants to take advantage of its two thirds majority in parliament to push the amendments that will see Mnangagwa stay in office beyond his mandated two terms that will end in 2028.
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Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta- Vatican News
Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced.
The pontiff, who was Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church, became pope in 2013 after his predecessor Benedict XVI resigned.
His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement released by the Vatican. He said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
-Sky News
Harare – The Zimbabwean government has disbursed an eye-watering USD 627 million to controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo through a classified road rehabilitation contract — a deal critics are calling one of the most opaque and bloated in recent memory.
According to a leaked internal memorandum from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Chivayo’s company, IMC Communications (Pvt) Ltd, was granted the funds under the Presidential Infrastructure Rehabilitation Initiative. The document orders an initial tranche of $600 million to be released within five working days into a Nostro account controlled by IMC — with the remaining sum to follow..
The contract, which is marked as a “Presidential Special Mandate” not subject to standard audit protocols, is reportedly for road works in Matabeleland North, Mashonaland Central, and the Midlands. But visual evidence from IMC’s own media team has sparked outrage: footage shows workers laying what appear to be narrow strips of asphalt barely suitable for pedestrians, let alone vehicles.
Amid rising scrutiny, Wicknell Chivayo responded not with accountability but with vitriol. In a comment posted publicly and now circulating widely, Chivayo targeted ZimEye which has been vocal in demanding transparency around the deal. Chivayo wrote:
“I’ve never seen such a toxic and heartless idiot like Simba Chikanza.”
The outburst is being viewed as a deflection from growing questions about how a company with no known civil engineering track record was awarded a contract of such scale — and why the funds were released with apparent urgency and without competitive tendering.
Economists and civil society actors are calling for an urgent investigation, warning that the deal could signal a new chapter of elite enrichment at the expense of the public.
“While hospitals go without medicine and roads in rural areas remain death traps, $627 million is being handed out under secrecy clauses for roads no one can drive on,” said one governance watchdog in Harare.
As Chivayo continues to flaunt his luxury lifestyle online, many Zimbabweans are left asking: Is this development, or daylight robbery under a presidential stamp?
By A Correspondent
War veteran Blessed Geza has intensified his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, calling for a national shutdown as part of efforts to pressure the embattled leader to resign.
In a hard-hitting statement released Saturday night, Geza declared that Mnangagwa is no longer fit to lead Zimbabwe, accusing him of failing the nation through corruption, economic mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises.
“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” said Geza, signaling the beginning of what he described as a nationwide push for change.
He revealed that preparations are underway for a coordinated shutdown involving war veterans, civil society, and ordinary citizens, aimed at sending a clear message to the ruling elite.
Geza’s bold remarks, which can be viewed here, underscore a growing sense of discontent within the ranks of the liberation war veterans—many of whom once supported Mnangagwa but now see his administration as having betrayed the values of the liberation struggle.
As economic conditions continue to deteriorate and public frustration deepens, Geza’s call for mass action could mark a turning point in the political landscape, putting further pressure on a presidency already facing mounting criticism from within and outside the ruling party.
By A Correspondent
Lovemore Matuke, Minister of State Security and ZANU PF Politburo member, has come under fire for commandeering the pulpit at the African Apostolic Church’s Easter Conference in Gutu. Matuke used the platform to campaign for ZANU PF and glorify President Emmerson Mnangagwa, turning a sacred service into a political rally.
The move has been widely condemned by critics and church observers, who view it as a blatant violation of the church’s sanctity. A church elder described the incident as a “hijack,” saying, “We came here for spiritual upliftment, not political sermons.”
Matuke’s actions were seen as an attempt to align the church with the ruling party’s agenda, with many congregants expressing discomfort and skepticism. His call for churches to support government initiatives and combat drug abuse was perceived as politically loaded and insincere by some.
The incident has sparked a heated debate about the separation of church and state, with many questioning the appropriateness of using a place of worship for political gain. As one congregant put it, “The church must remain a sanctuary—not a stage for politicians.”
By Dorrothy Moyo | Harare | April 21, 2025
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has been accused of misleading the public about its involvement in the operations of the Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway (BBR), following the devastating train collision with a Rovos Rail luxury passenger train on Good Friday.
In a statement issued on April 19, NRZ claimed that both BBR and Rovos Rail are “private companies that operate independently of the NRZ,” and stated that the railway line where the collision occurred is “privately owned,” thereby absolving itself of operational responsibility. However, official documents reviewed by this publication show that the Government of Zimbabwe, through NRZ, owns a 15 percent stake in BBR — a significant shareholding that contradicts NRZ’s claim of full detachment.
BBR is operated under NLPI Limited, a consortium of foreign and regional financial institutions including Nedbank (SA), Old Mutual (SA), NLB (Mauritius), and Grindrod (SA). NLPI holds an 85 percent stake, while NRZ — acting on behalf of the state — retains a 15 percent interest.
The head-on collision occurred at approximately 7:00 AM on April 18, near Hantinya Village outside Gwanda. The incident left 18 people injured, including several Rovos Rail crew members and an American tourist who underwent emergency spinal surgery. One Rovos coach overturned, another veered off into nearby bushland, and a third collided with the coach ahead. Rescue crews spent over two hours extricating one of the trapped victims.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, who visited the accident scene and the injured passengers in hospital, emphasized the significance of the Rovos Rail service to Zimbabwe’s international tourism strategy. The luxury train had been en route from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, carrying tourists from countries including the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, and the United Kingdom.
Minister Rwodzi said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had expressed deep concern over the accident and directed that government departments offer full support to Rovos Rail and its passengers. She also underscored the need to restore the service as quickly as possible, calling it “a key part of Zimbabwe’s tourism and diplomatic outreach.”
Despite these reassurances, NRZ’s statement has triggered widespread concern among railway safety experts and governance analysts, who argue that NRZ cannot reasonably deny responsibility when it maintains a direct financial and institutional interest in BBR.
“This is not simply a matter of semantics,” said one regional transport analyst. “If NRZ is a shareholder, it has an obligation to ensure safety, operational integrity, and proper oversight — especially on a line that is critical to both freight logistics and international tourism.”
The collision has raised further questions about the state of railway infrastructure, signalling systems, and coordination mechanisms between private operators and public agencies. A full investigation into the causes of the accident is now underway, led by the Government in conjunction with technical experts.
The findings are expected to address both mechanical factors and institutional failures, with potential implications for the future of public-private partnerships in Zimbabwe’s transport sector.
As the government moves to repair the damaged rail line and restore confidence among international travellers, pressure is mounting for transparency, accountability — and a clear reassessment of how railways are governed in the country.
In recent years, the marriage of Hollywood and artificial intelligence has sparked conversations across the entertainment industry. AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s a real force shaping how movies are made, how soundtracks are composed, and how audiences experience content. From scriptwriting to visual effects, AI is pushing boundaries and changing the landscape of creativity. In this post, we’re diving into the fascinating ways AI is influencing Hollywood, with a special focus on one of its most exciting and controversial applications: AI music generation.
Before we jump into AI music generation, let’s take a quick look at how artificial intelligence is making waves in Hollywood. The tech is already being used in several aspects of filmmaking. AI is being utilized for everything from screenwriting and casting to special effects and post-production. However, the use of AI in music production is one area that’s rapidly gaining traction and starting to garner attention.
Filmmakers have always relied on original scores to elevate the emotional depth of their movies. Composers like John Williams, Hans Zimmer, and Ennio Morricone are legends in the industry because of their ability to craft unforgettable soundtracks that amplify the story being told on screen. But now, AI is stepping into the composer’s shoes, offering a new way to generate music that can complement a scene, without needing a human composer at all.
So, how does AI music generation work? At its core, AI music generators use machine learning algorithms to analyze existing music, identify patterns, and then create new compositions based on that data. The system “learns” the structure, melody, harmony, and rhythm of music, allowing it to compose original tracks that fit a variety of genres, styles, and moods.
For filmmakers, this technology offers a way to streamline the music production process, reduce costs, and open up new creative possibilities. But is it really the same as having a composer craft an original score? And how can filmmakers or even hobbyists like you make the most of AI-generated music?
To make this more tangible, let’s look at a few examples of AI music being used in the film industry today.
One of the most talked-about projects in the AI and filmmaking space is the 2016 short film Sunspring. The film’s script was entirely written by an AI system called “Benjamin,” which analyzed thousands of scripts and learned how to generate new stories. What made this project even more fascinating was the music. The soundtrack was composed by an AI that learned from a range of film scores. The result? A haunting, eerie composition that actually fit the tone of the movie.
Though Sunspring was more of a fun experiment, it demonstrates how AI-generated music can work in conjunction with AI-driven storytelling, creating a seamless, innovative project.
While not exactly Hollywood, video game music has been influenced heavily by AI. Games like No Man’s Sky feature dynamic soundtracks that adapt to the player’s actions, thanks to AI-generated music. The game’s system uses AI to adjust the music to match the player’s exploration and discoveries, creating a fully immersive experience. This could certainly have implications for how music is used in movies, particularly in interactive or virtual reality films.
Not just in indie films, but even big-budget commercial productions are beginning to incorporate AI-generated music. Companies like IBM and OpenAI have worked on AI models that help create music for specific moods and genres. As AI systems improve, we’re likely to see more Hollywood movies using AI-generated scores, especially when it comes to background music or atmospheric soundtracks.
Even if you’re not a filmmaker, AI music generation is becoming accessible to everyone. Platforms like Adobe’s AI Music Generator allow anyone to create original soundtracks without needing to know how to compose. Whether you’re a YouTuber, a content creator, or simply someone who loves experimenting with technology, AI-generated music can be a fantastic resource.
If you want to dive into AI music generation, there are several tools you can explore. Adobe offers an easy-to-use platform where you can create custom music tracks with just a few clicks.
With tools like these, you don’t need to be a professional musician to create professional-quality music. All you need is a vision for the type of mood or atmosphere you want to create, and the AI will handle the rest.
Despite the excitement surrounding AI-generated music, there are some challenges and ethical considerations that need to be addressed. For one, AI doesn’t yet have the depth of emotional connection or intuition that a human composer can bring. Music composed by an AI system can sound formulaic or lack the subtle nuances that make music truly memorable.
Furthermore, as AI music tools become more widespread, the question of ownership arises. Who owns a piece of music composed by an AI? Is it the person who used the tool to generate the music, or the company that created the AI system? These questions are still being worked out, but they highlight the complexities of integrating AI into creative fields.
So, what’s next for Hollywood and AI music generation? As AI continues to evolve, we can expect even more advanced tools that can create highly personalized and dynamic soundtracks. AI may eventually become an integral part of the creative process, helping filmmakers, musicians, and artists push the boundaries of what’s possible.
For now, AI music generation is a powerful tool that complements the work of human creators, allowing for faster, more cost-effective, and diverse music options. It’s not here to replace musicians or composers, but rather to serve as a creative assistant that can enhance the overall filmmaking process.
The integration of AI into Hollywood is just the beginning of a much larger shift in the way we create and consume entertainment. From AI-generated screenplays to AI-driven music, technology is empowering creators to explore new possibilities. AI music generators, in particular, are offering filmmakers and content creators an exciting new way to craft soundtracks that enhance their projects.
Whether you’re a filmmaker looking to cut costs and boost creativity or a hobbyist wanting to try your hand at composing, AI-generated music is worth exploring. As technology continues to improve, who knows what the future of Hollywood will look like? One thing’s for sure: it will be more innovative, more accessible, and more AI-driven than ever before.
ZANU PF photographer Cleopas Mukungunugwa writing on Sunday, published a breakdown of where he says the USD10 million expenditure for the Gokwe independence celebration went. He wrote :
Ko Standard Newspaper yacho tikangozvivharisa 🤷🏽♂️
An Open Clarification to The Standard on Independence Day Expenditure
It appears The Standard owned by Alpha Media Holdings and chaired by Trevor Ncube requires yet another economics lesson on the costs of hosting a national event. Since the paper seems determined to mislead the public on the $10 million allocated for Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations, perhaps a breakdown is necessary.
Where the Funds Were Allocated
2.Security & Emergency Services
A Question for The Standard
….
If the paper were genuinely interested in accountability, it would scrutinize all major expenditures including those of private corporations and opposition groups with the same vigor. Instead, it opts for sensationalism, undermining a celebration that unites millions of Zimbabweans.
One must ask: Why does The Standard consistently distort facts to attack the government while benefiting from its advertising revenue? Is this journalism, or a deliberate campaign to erode public trust in national institutions?
Zimbabwe’s independence was earned through sacrifice. Its celebration is not merely an “expense” it’s an investment in national pride, unity, and heritage. If The Standard disagrees, perhaps it should state so plainly rather than disguising bias as “investigative reporting.
NEWS ANALYSIS: Is Blessed Geza Just Another Face of ZANU-PF? Tafi Mhaka’s Stark Warning Divides Zimbabweans
April 20, 2025
As political tensions in Zimbabwe hit boiling point, a fierce debate has erupted over the role and true intentions of anti-corruption crusader Blessed Geza. While many hail him as a fearless reformer challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s crumbling regime, others, like political analyst and commentator Tafi Mhaka, have sounded the alarm — accusing Geza of being a Trojan horse for the very ZANU-PF machinery he claims to oppose.
https://x.com/tafimhaka/status/1913947256694190253?s=46
In a sharply worded thread that has since gone viral, Mhaka paints Geza not as a revolutionary, but as a “conduit” for ZANU-PF’s survival strategy. Mhaka claims Geza is helping to preserve the “chefs” — a colloquial reference to ZANU-PF elites — who presided over decades of mass violence, enforced disappearances, election fraud, and economic decay. “He is in fact helping the faceless ZANU-PF chefs, the immoral purveyors of widespread poverty and destruction,” Mhaka wrote.
Mhaka’s critique invokes painful national memories: Gukurahundi massacres, the abduction of Itai Dzamara, and the post-election killings of August 1, 2018. In his view, Geza is merely attempting to recycle the same authoritarian order with new branding.
Divided Reactions: A Nation in Debate
The post sparked passionate debate across Zimbabwean social media. One user, The_Afrikan (@PgMukwara), pushed back hard against Mhaka’s framing, accusing him of being out of touch with the current generational demands. “We are rejecting the establishment of a dynasty,” he posted in Shona-infused English, urging critics to “leave Geza alone.”
Others echoed Mhaka’s skepticism. “No to Mnangagwa. No to Geza. And no to Chiwenga. They are all ZANU-PF!” Mhaka replied in a follow-up tweet, calling for a complete break from the ruling party’s legacy—not just a change of faces.
Still, the question “Do we have any option?” posed by another user, @AlexBF…, captures the deep despair among citizens. Even those skeptical of Geza admit there are few viable political alternatives. Ashley Shava offered a pragmatic angle, writing: “If Geza succeeds in removing Mnangagwa, their next leader will require less effort to remove. It will be an advantage to us, the ordinary people.”
The Real Struggle: Reform or Rebranding?
The heart of the debate centers on whether Geza represents a genuine break from the ZANU-PF past, or a repackaged front for elite survival. Mhaka’s argument is that corruption and repression are not just features of individuals like Mnangagwa, but embedded in the DNA of ZANU-PF itself. Therefore, removing one man while keeping the system intact would only prolong the suffering of ordinary Zimbabweans.
Geza’s camp, on the other hand, seems to frame the struggle more as a tactical effort to remove a dysfunctional leader rather than dismantling the party altogether. His recent addresses have avoided directly denouncing ZANU-PF, instead focusing on Mnangagwa’s “inability to function” and calling on MPs to use constitutional powers to impeach him.
Conclusion: The Crossroads Moment
Zimbabwe stands at a political crossroads. With Mnangagwa skipping public appearances and the opposition fractured, figures like Blessed Geza are increasingly occupying the vacuum of resistance. But whether that vacuum will lead to genuine transformation—or merely the rotation of elites—remains uncertain.
Tafi Mhaka’s warning is clear: not every loud voice calling for change is a true revolutionary. As the nation braces for more protests and possible power shifts, Zimbabweans will have to decide what kind of future they want—and whether new leadership without structural reform is change at all.
MBUNGO, ZIMBABWE – Sunday, April 20, 2025
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | President Emmerson Mnangagwa has unexpectedly bunked his highly anticipated appearance at the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) gathering in Mbungo today, sparking intense speculation across the nation. The dramatic no-show comes just hours after fiery anti-corruption activist Blessed Geza issued a bold national address declaring that Mnangagwa will be removed from office “within weeks.”
The president, who was expected to deliver remarks at the influential ZCC event, instead delegated the task to Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe. Social media erupted with reactions as Garwe read a prepared speech in Mnangagwa’s absence, a moment seen by many as a symbolic withdrawal amid growing internal and public pressure.
This latest development follows reports by ZimEye revealing that Mnangagwa’s presidential helicopter, recently used during his trip to Gokwe, is considered prone to crashes. The exposé raised alarm over the president’s safety and could have factored into his sudden cancellation. However, critics and observers suggest that the real reason may lie in Geza’s intensifying campaign.
In a passionate late-night address on Saturday, Geza delivered a blistering critique of the Mnangagwa regime, ridiculing the president’s last public address in Gokwe and calling on Zimbabweans to unite in peaceful resistance.
“The thing we stopped is the 2030 nonsense… No one still talks of that except Daniel Garwe. He takes pills. Mnangagwa has kept him in there,” Geza charged, referencing the president’s Vision 2030 agenda which now lies in tatters.
Geza praised the people for their solidarity during past shutdown actions and urged a renewed stay-at-home protest on Tuesday and Wednesday. He emphasized the spiritual nature of the resistance, citing divine intervention in exposing government wrongdoing during the recent Independence Day celebrations.
“God uses weather as a weapon of war… We ask the churches to continue praying. The spirits of the land keep doing what you do to make sure Mnangagwa goes.”
The activist also highlighted the plight of over 100 detained protesters and journalists like Blessed Mhlanga, saying their only crime was exercising constitutional rights.
“Journalists have permission to take news… He was only doing his job,” Geza declared.
As the regime struggles to respond, the streets are buzzing with speculation. Commenters online are not holding back. One viral post by Facebook user Christian Precious MacHingura summed up the moment: “GEZA updates left him shivering.”
Mnangagwa’s conspicuous absence, paired with Garwe’s awkward appearance as a stand-in, has further fueled speculation about the president’s waning influence. Sources inside the ruling party claim impeachment whispers have turned into overt discussions, with members of Parliament reportedly “no longer wanting him.”
With the opposition energized, the church emboldened, and spirits invoked in the national struggle, all eyes are now on Tuesday’s looming shutdown—and on whether Mnangagwa’s silence today signals the beginning of his political end.- ZimEye
By A Correspondent
Socialite Prince Kelvin has revealed that Comedian Marabha had no one to bring him food during his final days in the hospital.
Zimbabwean Facebook socialite Prince Kelvin, who was hospitalized in the same ward as Marabha, shared a heartfelt account of the comedian’s last moments.
Speaking from his hospital bed, Prince Kelvin said, “Marabha had nobody to bring him food while in hospital,” adding that he was moved by compassion to help. “I ended up sharing my food with him,” he said.
Sports Correspondent
Zimbabwean referee Brighton Chimene proudly flew the national flag high on the continental stage as one of the four match officials in the AFCON Under-17 final held yesterday between Morocco and Mali.
Chimene was appointed as the fourth official in a diverse officiating team that included Namibia’s Andinio Twanyanyuka as the center referee. Salim Asao took charge as the first assistant referee, while the second assistant referee role was filled by Nancy Kasitu from Zambia.
The tightly contested final ended in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Morocco emerging victorious over Mali with a 4-2 win after a goalless draw in regulation time.
Chimene’s participation marks a significant achievement for Zimbabwean refereeing, highlighting the growing recognition of local officials at top-tier continental competitions.
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By A Correspondent
President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa marked Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day in Gokwe with a speech brimming with self-congratulation, touting his government’s supposed achievements in unity, economic growth, and national resilience. Yet, beneath the polished rhetoric lies a harsh reality for many Zimbabweans who continue to endure deepening poverty, chronic inflation, and deteriorating public services.
At the national event in Gokwe-Nembudziya, Midlands Province, Mnangagwa declared, “Divisive and alarmist elements will never triumph over a nation such as ours; with a rich liberation history and born out of the blood of the brave sons and daughters of this sacred land.” He painted critics as enemies of progress and assured that law enforcement would act in the “best interests” of Zimbabwe—language that critics argue often serves to justify repression rather than reform.
Despite his grand declarations, skepticism continues to grow over Mnangagwa’s ability to deliver real change. Many of the policies he celebrated remain either underfunded, inconsistently implemented, or disconnected from the urgent needs of the majority.
Devolution and Inclusivity
Mnangagwa pointed to Gokwe as a symbol of his administration’s commitment to devolution, claiming no one would be left behind. However, years into his presidency, many rural areas remain neglected, with poor infrastructure and minimal government presence—raising doubts about the sincerity of this “leave no place behind” mantra.
Economic Growth Projections
The President boasted of a projected 5.6% economic growth rate, driven by the mining sector and global commodity prices. But these figures, while encouraging on paper, mean little to ordinary citizens struggling with joblessness, runaway prices, and wages that don’t match the cost of living. Economic growth under Mnangagwa has largely failed to translate into broad-based improvement in livelihoods.
Agriculture and Food Security
He celebrated the Pfumvudza/Intwasa program and a predicted bumper harvest. Yet, many small-scale farmers have criticized the program’s inconsistent support and delays in the distribution of inputs. In a country frequently battered by climate shocks, agricultural resilience remains a distant goal.
Infrastructure and Disaster Recovery
Mnangagwa spoke of rehabilitating infrastructure damaged by extreme weather, including schools, clinics, and bridges. But in many communities, such projects have either stalled or never started, and local authorities often cite lack of funding and poor central coordination.
Citizen Empowerment
The President touted efforts to empower women, youth, and vulnerable groups through financial schemes and training. However, these initiatives often reach only a small fraction of the population, and transparency in their implementation is minimal. For many, the promises of empowerment are more political slogans than tangible change.
Vision 2030
Mnangagwa again committed to his Vision 2030, pledging industrialization and modernization to uplift Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income country. But with a stagnant industrial base, a crumbling healthcare system, and a restive population, critics question whether his administration has the vision, competence, or political will to meet that ambitious target.
While the President continues to celebrate progress, Zimbabweans on the ground face worsening conditions. The gap between official narratives and lived realities is growing—raising uncomfortable questions about who, if anyone, is truly benefiting from the so-called economic transformation. For many, Independence Day was less about pride and progress, and more a painful reminder of promises broken and futures deferred.
By A Correspondent
Lovemore Matuke, Minister of State Security and ZANU PF Politburo member, has come under fire for commandeering the pulpit at the African Apostolic Church’s Easter Conference in Gutu. Matuke used the platform to campaign for ZANU PF and glorify President Emmerson Mnangagwa, turning a sacred service into a political rally.
The move has been widely condemned by critics and church observers, who view it as a blatant violation of the church’s sanctity. A church elder described the incident as a “hijack,” saying, “We came here for spiritual upliftment, not political sermons.”
Matuke’s actions were seen as an attempt to align the church with the ruling party’s agenda, with many congregants expressing discomfort and skepticism. His call for churches to support government initiatives and combat drug abuse was perceived as politically loaded and insincere by some.
The incident has sparked a heated debate about the separation of church and state, with many questioning the appropriateness of using a place of worship for political gain. As one congregant put it, “The church must remain a sanctuary—not a stage for politicians.”
By A Correspondent
War veteran Blessed Geza has delivered a scathing assessment of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, declaring him unfit to continue leading Zimbabwe.
In a strongly worded statement issued Saturday night, Geza openly called for Mnangagwa to step down immediately, accusing him of presiding over a failed administration.
“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” Geza said, hinting at a broader strategy by disgruntled liberation war veterans and activists to push for leadership change.
Geza’s remarks reflect growing frustration among sections of the former liberation fighters, many of whom have become increasingly critical of Mnangagwa’s governance, economic mismanagement, and failure to deliver on promises made since taking power in 2017.
By A Correspondent
War veteran Blessed Geza has delivered a scathing assessment of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, declaring him unfit to continue leading Zimbabwe.
In a strongly worded statement issued Saturday night, Geza openly called for Mnangagwa to step down immediately, accusing him of presiding over a failed administration.
“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” Geza said, hinting at a broader strategy by disgruntled liberation war veterans and activists to push for leadership change.
Geza’s remarks reflect growing frustration among sections of the former liberation fighters, many of whom have become increasingly critical of Mnangagwa’s governance, economic mismanagement, and failure to deliver on promises made since taking power in 2017.
By A Correspondent
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is under fire following explosive allegations of rampant corruption and sex-based exploitation within its ranks, particularly in the promotion and transfer of school heads.
Sources within the education sector claim that promotions are no longer based on merit, with teachers reportedly paying bribes to secure appointments as school heads. In some disturbing instances, female teachers are allegedly being coerced into sexual relationships with superiors in exchange for promotions.
“If you don’t pay, or if you refuse to sleep with someone, you’re going nowhere,” said one teacher, who spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear of reprisal. “It’s no longer about qualifications or experience — it’s about who you know or what you can offer.”
The situation in Masvingo Province has particularly raised eyebrows. Last month, only five candidates were invited for interviews to fill 80 vacant secondary school head posts. According to insiders, 30 candidates had applied, but 25 were disqualified under questionable circumstances.
“This was a deliberate move,” said a source familiar with the recruitment process. “They wanted fewer candidates so that the remaining 75 positions can be handed out quietly through connections or bribes. The Provincial Education Director and Public Service Commission now have the power to decide who gets what — and that’s where the deals are made.”
Education experts have sounded the alarm, warning that such practices are eroding the quality and integrity of Zimbabwe’s education system.
“When promotions are no longer based on performance or ability, but on corruption and coercion, the entire education system suffers,” said an education policy analyst. “It demoralizes teachers, lowers standards, and undermines the future of our children.”
Despite the gravity of the allegations, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has yet to issue an official response. As public outrage grows, stakeholders are demanding an independent investigation and accountability for those found to be abusing their positions.
Meanwhile, educators across the country continue to work under a cloud of fear, manipulation, and mistrust — symptoms of a system many say is in urgent need of reform.
By A Correspondent
War veteran Blessed Geza has intensified his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, calling for a national shutdown as part of efforts to pressure the embattled leader to resign.
In a hard-hitting statement released Saturday night, Geza declared that Mnangagwa is no longer fit to lead Zimbabwe, accusing him of failing the nation through corruption, economic mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises.
“Don’t worry about the last kicks of a dying horse — Mnangagwa is going, and we are unrolling a plan of action,” said Geza, signaling the beginning of what he described as a nationwide push for change.
He revealed that preparations are underway for a coordinated shutdown involving war veterans, civil society, and ordinary citizens, aimed at sending a clear message to the ruling elite.
Geza’s bold remarks, which can be viewed here, underscore a growing sense of discontent within the ranks of the liberation war veterans—many of whom once supported Mnangagwa but now see his administration as having betrayed the values of the liberation struggle.
As economic conditions continue to deteriorate and public frustration deepens, Geza’s call for mass action could mark a turning point in the political landscape, putting further pressure on a presidency already facing mounting criticism from within and outside the ruling party.
Masvingo, Zimbabwe – April 20, 2025
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to make a high-stakes appearance today at the Zion Christian Church (ZCC)’s Easter Conference at Mbungo in Masvingo, in what observers say is a calculated move to reclaim his waning popularity following an internal power shift in January that saw Vice President Constantino Chiwenga rise in political favor.
The sprawling ZCC compound has transformed into a sea of green, white, and navy blue as tens of thousands of congregants gathered under overcast skies. The images show a densely packed crowd of worshippers—many of them clad in signature ZCC uniforms—seated in rows of black chairs, some clasping hymn books and wrapped in winter coats against the cold. A mix of solemnity and anticipation is evident in their faces.
One image captures the towering ZCC cathedral, its iconic green rooftop rising against a bright sky—a stark contrast to the tension lingering in the national political climate. Uniformed church stewards and security personnel are strategically placed across the grounds, while members of the church hierarchy have taken up front-row positions awaiting the President’s arrival.
Mnangagwa’s attendance at the Easter gathering is being interpreted by analysts as a strategic attempt to leverage the church’s massive following to revive his grassroots support base. Since the start of 2025, Mnangagwa has seen his authority tested within ZANU-PF, with Chiwenga reportedly consolidating control over key military and party structures.
“This is not just a religious appearance. It’s a political statement,” said a political commentator in Harare. “Mnangagwa knows the ZCC platform reaches millions. If he can reassert moral leadership here, he might stall Chiwenga’s momentum—at least in the public imagination.”
The ZCC, one of Zimbabwe’s most influential religious institutions, has historically offered sitting leaders a stage for both spiritual reflection and subtle campaigning. Today’s event, however, carries greater urgency for Mnangagwa, whose presidency is now perceived as fragile amid mounting economic dissatisfaction, factional tensions, and renewed scrutiny of his leadership style.
Whether Mnangagwa can reignite the political fervor that once carried him to power remains to be seen. But for now, all eyes are on Mbungo, where faith and politics converge in dramatic fashion.
More updates to follow as the story develops.
April 20, 2025 | Johannesburg – ZimShowBizOnline
A leaked WhatsApp voice recording has sent shockwaves across southern Africa, revealing a disturbing plot by members of the South African far-right, xenophobic Dudula Movement targeting prominent Zimbabwean broadcaster Ezra Tshisa Sibanda and the humanitarian organization led by Nobuhle Virgie.
The chilling audio, which has been circulated to the media, captures Dudula members expressing outrage over the Nobuhle Virgie Foundation’s support for Zimbabwean refugees and migrants. In the leaked conversation, conspirators reportedly discuss plans to “deal with” Sibanda and the Foundation, accusing them of aiding foreign nationals and undermining Dudula’s anti-immigrant agenda.
Sibanda, a veteran journalist and respected voice in African media, took to social media to condemn the threats and reaffirm his commitment to advocacy. “Let me be clear: helping desperate people is not a crime. Showing compassion is not betrayal. It is humanity,” he wrote. He warned that the voice note, “steeped in venom and xenophobia,” is part of a broader rise in online hate networks radicalizing youth and normalizing bigotry.
“This is not idle gossip,” Sibanda stressed. “It amounts to incitement and, potentially, hate crimes. Authorities must urgently investigate the origins and membership of these extremist groups.”
He called on the South African government to act decisively, warning that the rhetoric mirrored past atrocities from Rwanda to apartheid South Africa. “There is a moral and constitutional duty to reject hate, especially when it masquerades as patriotism,” Sibanda declared.
The Nobuhle Virgie Foundation, known for its extensive humanitarian work with migrants and refugees, has also pledged to continue its efforts despite the threats.
Sibanda closed his statement with defiance: “Dudula, listen closely, I FEAR FOKOL!”
This development has sparked widespread condemnation, with human rights groups urging authorities to crack down on hate-fueled extremism and safeguard those advocating for vulnerable communities.
Story developing…
A national embarrassment unfolded on Friday as Zimbabwe’s much-hyped Independence Day celebrations descended into chaos, exposing the alleged misuse of over US$10 million in public funds on crumbling infrastructure and shoddy stadium construction.
Despite claims by Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe that the government had completed a “fully equipped, modern stadium” in time for the 45th Independence Day commemorations at Mutora growth point, the reality on the ground painted a starkly different picture.
The so-called state-of-the-art facility, built at Nembudziya open grounds, failed its first real test when heavy rains turned the pitch into a soggy swamp. Security forces struggled to execute parades in the waterlogged arena, and spectators were seen wading through mud as basic amenities buckled under pressure.
Worse still, bucket seats—proudly showcased just a day earlier—were ripped from their bases before the event concluded. Footage widely circulated on social media showed drenched attendees slipping across the slick, uneven surfaces, with many expressing outrage at what they termed a “national disgrace.”
“This is not a stadium. It’s a swamp with plastic chairs,” one attendee said in a video that has since gone viral.
Government sources had boasted of a multi-million-dollar infrastructure overhaul in Gokwe North ahead of the celebrations, but critics now accuse the state of misappropriation and cutting corners for political showmanship.
“This is a textbook example of looting under the guise of development,” said a senior opposition official. “The regime is more interested in optics than actual delivery. Millions have been siphoned off in the name of patriotism.”
With mounting public anger and visible evidence of construction failure, calls are growing for a full forensic audit of the Independence Day expenditure. Neither Minister Garwe nor the Ministry of Local Government had responded to media requests for comment at the time of publication.
As the mud settles on what was supposed to be a celebration of national pride, questions loom large over who benefited from the inflated budgets—and who will be held accountable for the farce.
By Tinashe Sambiri
GOKWE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa came under scrutiny on Friday after delivering a speech at the 2025 national Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe that many have described as a political maneuver aimed at appeasing war veterans without offering concrete action.
Addressing thousands gathered for the commemorations, the Zanu PF leader called for national unity and praised the role of war veterans in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
“Let us remain united as a nation against our detractors,” Mnangagwa said. “War veterans will remain a top priority in the national development agenda and in this progressive dispensation where my Government is successfully issuing the title deeds programme, which has so far empowered many livelihoods.”
He also commended the Midlands Province for its agricultural productivity, calling it a model for food security in the country.
However, critics and some war veterans expressed skepticism, saying the President’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address long-standing grievances over welfare, compensation, and recognition. While he praised the title deeds programme, observers noted that few war veterans have actually benefited from it, especially in rural areas like Gokwe.
The speech is being seen by some as a strategic move to maintain political support among a key constituency ahead of future elections, rather than a commitment to meaningful reform or empowerment.
Marry Mubaiwa boldly responds to Christopher Mutsvangwa remarks…
The motormouth Zanu PF spokesperson has been left clutching thin air..
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By Sports Correspondent
MWOS FC have announced increased gate charges ahead of their high-profile clash against Dynamos FC at Ngoni Stadium on Monday.
The match will mark a significant occasion for the league leaders, as they host the Harare giants at the recently refurbished and newly homologated Ngoni Stadium in Norton.
Fans will pay US$5 for entry into the rest of the ground, while access to the VIP section has been set at US$20. The price adjustment reflects the growing interest in MWOS FC’s impressive run this season, as well as the upgraded matchday experience at their home venue.
𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐊𝐖𝐀 𝐌𝐖𝐀𝐍A: 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐌𝐏𝐒 𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞, 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝. 𝐀 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐮𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝. 𝐀 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲, 𝐙𝐢𝐦𝐛os 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐚 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 𝐌𝐏𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐤𝐚 𝐌𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐚, 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.
𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐝𝐳𝐢𝐦𝐮, 𝐄𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨, 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐛𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 T 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢. 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐢 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐓 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐛𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐮. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭.
𝐔𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐛𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 MT 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢, 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟖 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝; 𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 MT 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭. 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧, 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐊𝐖𝐀 𝐌𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢’𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠.
𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐊𝐖𝐀 𝐌𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐀, 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟎. 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐮𝐩. 𝐇𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐒$𝟒𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐬 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐄𝐃 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐦 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝, 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢’𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥.
𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢’𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐈𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐜 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐚, 𝐓𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞, 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐓𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐨, 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥𝐚, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐙𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐬’𝐬 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐢 𝟑 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐊𝐀 𝐌𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐌𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐰𝐚 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 D 𝐌𝐰𝐨𝐧𝐳𝐨𝐫𝐚.
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚. 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐨’𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲. 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 baseless 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
@MakomboreroH
𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐂𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐚’𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 image 𝐛𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐊𝐖𝐀 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐌𝐏𝐬
Sports Correspondent
Gokwe, Zimbabwe
FC Platinum emerged victorious in the 2025 Uhuru Cup final after defeating Simba Bhora 3-0 in a penalty shootout, following a match that lasted only 15 minutes and ended in a goalless draw.
The encounter, held on Zimbabwe’s Independence Day, was marred by a significant delay, which led to only a quarter-hour of action on the pitch before the final whistle signaled the end of regulation time.
Despite the brief playtime, both sides showcased intense energy, but neither could break the deadlock.
With no extra time scheduled, the match proceeded directly to penalties.
FC Platinum maintained their composure from the spot, clinically converting all three of their penalties.
This win adds another trophy to FC Platinum’s cabinet and reaffirms their status as one of Zimbabwe’s top football sides. While the unusual circumstances of the final may spark debate, the victory was well-received by the FC Platinum faithful, who celebrated the triumph on a day of national pride.
Simba Bhora, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on what might have been in a final that never truly got going.
Marry Mubaiwa boldly responds to Christopher Mutsvangwa remarks…
The motormouth Zanu PF spokesperson has been left clutching thin air..
ZimEye is investigating an internal report that suggests the tender for the Gokwe grounds for yesterday’s function was USD10 million
By A Correspondent
A self-proclaimed traditional healer from Gokwe has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of illegally possessing and attempting to sell protected animal trophies.
Cephas Zimuti (54), along with his co-accused Eliel Fisher (26), was found guilty following a full trial and sentenced by Magistrate Honest Musiiwa.
The pair was arrested on November 12, 2024, near Kambasha Business Centre after police received a tip-off about their illegal activities. Upon searching them, authorities discovered two full leopard skins weighing 3kgs, a hedgehog skin weighing 0.050kgs, and 88 pangolin scales weighing 0.35kgs. The items, which were being held without a permit, were valued at US$41,500.
Zimuti claimed in court that he was a registered traditional healer and that the trophies were inherited from his late grandfather, entrusted to him for safekeeping. However, the court found insufficient evidence to support his defense.
The arrest came after a police taskforce moved in on the suspects during a sting operation, catching them in the act as they were allegedly preparing to sell the trophies to potential buyers.
By Tinashe Sambiri
GOKWE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa came under scrutiny on Friday after delivering a speech at the 2025 national Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe that many have described as a political maneuver aimed at appeasing war veterans without offering concrete action.
Addressing thousands gathered for the commemorations, the Zanu PF leader called for national unity and praised the role of war veterans in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
“Let us remain united as a nation against our detractors,” Mnangagwa said. “War veterans will remain a top priority in the national development agenda and in this progressive dispensation where my Government is successfully issuing the title deeds programme, which has so far empowered many livelihoods.”
He also commended the Midlands Province for its agricultural productivity, calling it a model for food security in the country.
However, critics and some war veterans expressed skepticism, saying the President’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address long-standing grievances over welfare, compensation, and recognition. While he praised the title deeds programme, observers noted that few war veterans have actually benefited from it, especially in rural areas like Gokwe.
The speech is being seen by some as a strategic move to maintain political support among a key constituency ahead of future elections, rather than a commitment to meaningful reform or empowerment.
Marry Mubaiwa boldly responds to Christopher Mutsvangwa remarks…
The motormouth Zanu PF spokesperson has been left clutching thin air..
By Tinashe Sambiri
GOKWE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa came under scrutiny on Friday after delivering a speech at the 2025 national Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe that many have described as a political maneuver aimed at appeasing war veterans without offering concrete action.
Addressing thousands gathered for the commemorations, the Zanu PF leader called for national unity and praised the role of war veterans in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
“Let us remain united as a nation against our detractors,” Mnangagwa said. “War veterans will remain a top priority in the national development agenda and in this progressive dispensation where my Government is successfully issuing the title deeds programme, which has so far empowered many livelihoods.”
He also commended the Midlands Province for its agricultural productivity, calling it a model for food security in the country.
However, critics and some war veterans expressed skepticism, saying the President’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address long-standing grievances over welfare, compensation, and recognition. While he praised the title deeds programme, observers noted that few war veterans have actually benefited from it, especially in rural areas like Gokwe.
The speech is being seen by some as a strategic move to maintain political support among a key constituency ahead of future elections, rather than a commitment to meaningful reform or empowerment.
By A Correspondent
Investigative Report: Release of the First Suspect in the Emmanuel Mahamba Murder Case
Background of the Case
On April 5, 2025, 29-year-old Emmanuel Mahamba, a Zimbabwean national, was brutally murdered in Rivonia, Sandton (Johannesburg). The killing, which was captured on CCTV, showed a Ford Ranger bakkie (pickup truck) repeatedly running over Mahamba in a shocking act of violence. The gruesome footage quickly went viral, sparking outrage in both South Africa and Zimbabwe  . South African Police Service (SAPS) investigators managed to trace the vehicle involved using advanced surveillance technology, ultimately locating the Ford Ranger and detaining a man found driving it  . This individual became the first suspect in the case.
However, Gauteng Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Tommy Mthombeni soon confirmed that this first suspect was questioned and then released, as police concluded he was “not the suspect we are looking for”  . The Ford Ranger was impounded and logged as evidence, and the investigation turned toward the primary suspect – identified as a Ghanaian national allegedly involved in a love triangle with Mahamba and a woman named Ntombi  . As of mid-April 2025, that primary suspect (reportedly one Ali Mugoya) remained at large, continuing to run his business and even communicate via phone, while community pressure for his arrest mounted  .
The decision to release the first suspect despite the violent video evidence and the impounded vehicle has led to public uproar and allegations of police negligence. This report investigates whether SAPS acted appropriately under the law or negligently in letting the initial suspect go. It examines the legal standards for arrests and detention in South Africa, the evidentiary value of the CCTV footage, the role of eyewitness testimony, the protocols for handling suspects in serious crimes, and the public’s concerns about corruption and police procedure. Relevant legal precedents and comparable cases are also referenced to contextualize the Mahamba case.
Legal Standards for Arrest and Detention in South Africa
South African criminal law sets clear standards and safeguards for the arrest and detention of suspects. Arrest may be carried out with or without a warrant, but in all cases the police must have lawful grounds. Under the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 (CPA), a police officer may arrest without a warrant only when certain conditions are met – notably, when the officer has “reasonable suspicion that a person has committed a crime,” especially for serious offenses . Murder is classified as a very serious offense, so the threshold of reasonable suspicion would permit a warrantless arrest of a suspect if the facts and evidence lead the officer to reasonably suspect that person’s involvement.
Upon arrest, several legal obligations kick in to protect the suspect’s rights and ensure due process:
• Informing of Rights: The arresting officers must inform the suspect of the reason for the arrest and of their constitutional rights (including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel)  . This is grounded in Section 35 of the South African Constitution, which enshrines the rights of arrested and detained persons  .
• 48-Hour Rule: A crucial safeguard is the requirement that an arrested person be brought before a court within 48 hours (or on the next court day if the 48 hours expire on a weekend or holiday)  . This “48-hour rule” ensures prompt judicial oversight of the arrest and detention. In practice, it means the police cannot simply hold a suspect indefinitely; a magistrate must review the case promptly to decide if continued detention is justified. This rule prevents arbitrary or prolonged detention without charge  .
• Judicial Oversight and Charging: When brought to court for a first appearance, the prosecution (through a control prosecutor reviewing the police docket) must decide whether there is enough evidence to formally charge the suspect and enroll the case. If yes, the suspect can be charged and the court will consider bail or further detention pending trial. If not, the case will not be enrolled at that time, and the suspect must be released from custody. In other words, South African law does not permit holding a person in detention without charges if the evidence is insufficient to even initiate a case in court  .
In the Mahamba case, the first suspect was detained but apparently not charged within the 48-hour window, leading to his release. SAPS likely had reasonable suspicion to arrest him – after all, he was found driving the very vehicle caught on camera at the murder scene, a strong circumstantial link. Detaining him for questioning was lawful under these standards.
However, when it came time to either charge or release, police and prosecutors evidently concluded that there was not enough evidence tying this individual to the crime as a perpetrator. This aligns with other instances in South Africa where suspects were released due to inadequate evidence. For example, in March 2025 a 23-year-old man arrested for a schoolgirl’s murder was freed because the NPA (National Prosecuting Authority) found “contradicting information in the docket” and could not link him to the crime; prosecutors instructed police to investigate further and declined to enroll the case, necessitating the suspect’s release . Similarly, in the high-profile Senzo Meyiwa murder case, an early suspect was arrested but charges were later withdrawn for lack of evidence, as the magistrate found the evidence insufficient to proceed . These examples underscore that legal procedure obliges authorities to release a suspect if evidence falls short, even if the crime is serious and public pressure to prosecute is high. An arrest is not the same as a conviction; the law demands that evidence be strong enough to justify each stage of the process, from arrest to charge to trial.
In sum, SAPS had to balance two imperatives in this case: act swiftly to apprehend possible suspects (for which the law grants leeway given reasonable suspicion), and uphold the rights of those suspects by not detaining them without solid evidence. The release of the first suspect suggests that when scrutinized, the evidence against that individual did not meet the legal standard needed to keep him in custody at that time. Legally, this is the appropriate course – however frustrating it may appear – because detaining someone without a case that can stand up in court would violate due process. The critical question then becomes whether the evidence was indeed insufficient or whether investigators failed to fully capitalize on what they had, an issue we explore later in this report.
Evidentiary Weight of the CCTV Footage
One of the most compelling pieces of evidence in the Mahamba murder is the CCTV video itself. Surveillance footage provides real-time documentation of a crime and can be extremely powerful in a court of law. In South Africa, CCTV and video recordings are generally admissible as evidence as they are treated as a series of photographs (still images) in rapid sequence. Section 232 of the CPA expressly allows the production of photographs as evidence, and by extension, courts have accepted video recordings under the same principle . As long as the prosecution can authenticate the footage (proving it is a true and untampered recording of the event), it can be presented to the court as real evidence of what occurred.
However, the probative value of CCTV footage – that is, how much weight it carries in proving the elements of the crime – can vary greatly. In this case, the video unambiguously shows the act of murder: a driver in a Ford Ranger intentionally running over Mahamba multiple times. For establishing the occurrence and nature of the crime, such footage is incredibly strong evidence. It graphically demonstrates intent and the brutality of the act, supporting charges like murder or aggravated homicide by showing the perpetrator’s conduct. The challenge arises with the question of identity: Who is the person behind the wheel in that video?
If the suspect’s face or identity is unclear in the footage, the CCTV alone cannot conclusively link a specific individual to the crime. This appears to be the situation in the Mahamba case. Eyewitnesses and reports suggest the suspect fled, and initial reports even misstated his nationality (Ugandan vs. Ghanaian) until corrected , indicating some confusion. The number plate of the vehicle was clearly visible and became a key lead , which allowed police to trace the vehicle to the person they detained. But a license plate identifies a vehicle (and its registered owner), not the actual driver at the moment of the crime. It provides an investigative trail but additional evidence is needed to prove that a particular suspect was the one driving the truck in the video.
Courts often require that video evidence for identification be corroborated by other evidence. For instance, a witness who knows the suspect might watch the video and testify, “I recognize the driver/clothing/appearance as the accused,” or forensic evidence might place the suspect in the car (fingerprints, DNA, etc.). If the CCTV footage in this case did not capture a clear view of the driver’s face, the prosecution would need to rely on such supporting evidence to tie the crime to the suspect. Without it, the footage, while showing the heinous act, does not by itself answer the question of authorship – it proves the what and how of the crime but not the who with certainty.
It’s also important to consider the limitations of CCTV: lighting, camera angle, distance, and image resolution all affect how clearly a person can be identified. If the incident happened quickly or the perpetrator took steps to avoid recognition (for example, wearing a cap or keeping the sun visor down, etc.), the video might only show a silhouette or partial features. In those scenarios, its value is more to set the scene and timeline of events, while investigators must find other ways to establish identity.
In summary, the CCTV footage in the Mahamba case is a double-edged sword. It undeniably captures the crime and thus provides a critical piece of evidence that a murder was committed with intent. This likely contributed to public sentiment that there was “overwhelming evidence” and thus confusion as to why no one was being held accountable  . But legally, unless the footage can also identify the perpetrator or is paired with evidence that does, it cannot alone justify charging a particular individual. The first suspect’s release suggests that while the video tied the vehicle (and thus him) to the scene, it perhaps did not definitively tie him to the act of driving at the moment of the killing. Police would have needed either a positive identification from a witness, a confession, forensic proof, or some admission linking him to being the driver. Lacking that, the CCTV’s weight was sufficient to seize the vehicle and prompt an arrest, but maybe not sufficient (by itself) to ensure a conviction against that individual. In legal terms, evidence must establish proof beyond reasonable doubt for conviction; an unclear video falls short of that standard for identifying a culprit. Therefore, while CCTV was central to solving what happened, the case of who did it relies on additional evidence, leading us to the role of eyewitness testimony.
Role of Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony often plays a pivotal role in criminal cases, especially in bridging gaps that physical evidence (like CCTV footage) might leave. In the Mahamba case, witnesses on the scene or individuals who knew the people involved could provide crucial information. For example, if someone saw the confrontation and can say, “I saw [Name] driving that truck,” or “I recognize the suspect running from the scene,” this testimony could directly support the identification of the perpetrator. Similarly, the woman at the center of the alleged love triangle (Ntombi) or others who knew both Mahamba and the suspect might supply context and possibly testify about any threats or the suspect’s ownership and use of the vehicle.
Legally, South African courts value eyewitness evidence but also treat it with caution. The reliability of human observation can be highly variable. The Supreme Court of Appeal has echoed a long-standing principle: “Because of the fallibility of human observation, evidence of identification is approached… with some caution. It is not enough for the identifying witness to be honest; the reliability of his observation must also be tested.” . This means that a witness’s identification of a suspect must be scrutinized against various factors – lighting, distance, stress, the duration of the observation, whether the witness has seen the suspect before, and so on . In practice, SAPS investigators use procedures like identification parades (line-ups) or photo arrays to verify whether a witness can pick out the suspect in a controlled setting, helping to guard against mistaken identity.
Eyewitness testimony can support CCTV evidence in a case like this by positively identifying the suspect as the person in the video or at the crime scene. For instance, an eyewitness might confirm that the suspect was driving the Ford Ranger when it ran over Mahamba, thereby directly linking the suspect to the act shown on camera. This kind of corroboration significantly strengthens the case – the video shows the crime and the eyewitness confirms who did it. Moreover, eyewitness accounts can provide details not captured on video, such as verbal exchanges (e.g., arguments or threats before the attack) or the suspect’s behavior immediately after (did he flee on foot? say anything? attempt to hide?). These details can help establish motive and consciousness of guilt.
On the other hand, eyewitnesses can sometimes contradict video evidence, which presents challenges. Memories can be imperfect or influenced by shock. If, hypothetically, a witness description of the perpetrator’s clothing or appearance did not match what is seen in the video, it could create confusion or reasonable doubt. In the Mahamba case, however, the video is clear about the act, so contradictions would more likely relate to identity (e.g., a witness identifying a different person than the one police suspect) or context (why the incident started). So far, reports indicate that witnesses described the incident as stemming from a personal dispute — “an argument with the shop owner” prior to the vehicular attack  — and that it was part of a love triangle scenario . These accounts complement the video by explaining motive but do not necessarily identify the driver.
It’s also worth noting the potential role of the first suspect’s own testimony. Police questioned the man they detained with the vehicle. His statements (if any) are not public, but if he provided an alibi or named the actual suspect (e.g., “I lent the car to [X]” or “I wasn’t there, I only got the vehicle afterward”), that too is a form of testimony that investigators would consider. If his account checked out with other evidence, it could both exonerate him and point the investigation toward the true perpetrator. Conversely, inconsistencies in his story could have raised suspicion. We do not have those details, but the fact that police let him go implies either he convincingly distanced himself from the crime or the evidence tying him to the act was truly lacking.
In summary, eyewitness testimony in this case is legally significant for identifying the culprit and providing context. A credible eyewitness identification could turn the tide in favor of charging a suspect, while the absence of any eyewitness identification makes the prosecution’s job harder, relying on circumstantial evidence. The courts will weigh such testimony alongside video and forensic evidence, mindful of its strengths and pitfalls. In any eventual trial for Mahamba’s murder, one can expect that witnesses (including possibly Ntombi, bystanders, and investigators who can relay what the first suspect said in questioning) will be key in painting a full picture of events and pinning down the accused’s role.
SAPS Protocols for Detaining and Releasing Suspects in Violent Crimes
When dealing with violent crimes such as murder, the SAPS follows standard protocols and best practices aimed at both solving the case effectively and respecting legal process. In a high-profile, violent case like Emmanuel Mahamba’s, these are the typical steps and considerations:
1. Immediate Response and Evidence Preservation: Upon arriving at a violent crime scene, officers must secure the scene and preserve evidence. In this case, crucial evidence included the CCTV footage and the descriptions of the vehicle and suspect from witnesses. SAPS would gather video from nearby cameras, take witness statements, and collect any physical evidence (debris from the vehicle, etc.). A significant early move was tracking down the Ford Ranger seen in the video – police used advanced surveillance and possibly license plate recognition tools to locate the vehicle . The vehicle was then impounded and stored as evidence in the SAP13 exhibit register . Securing the vehicle is vital for forensic examination (it could yield fingerprints, DNA, or other clues, and it in itself is a key exhibit tying the crime to a suspect).
2. Identifying and Detaining Suspects: Based on evidence, investigators will identify potential suspects. In violent crimes, if a suspect is identified, police will attempt a prompt arrest to prevent flight. Here, the individual found driving the Ford Ranger was detained. Standard arrest protocol was followed: since this was a murder investigation (a serious Schedule 1 offense), police did not need a warrant to arrest him given the direct linkage of the vehicle to the crime (establishing reasonable suspicion) . Upon arrest, he would have been informed of his rights (to remain silent, etc.) and taken into custody for interrogation .
3. Investigation and Interrogation: Once a suspect is in custody, detectives will interview them (respecting the suspect’s rights and the choice to have a lawyer present). The goal is to gather more information – possibly a confession, or leads on other accomplices or suspects. In best practice, this also involves cross-checking the suspect’s story (alibi verification, etc.) and comparing it with the collected evidence. At the same time, police would continue pursuing other leads (for example, confirming the identity of the actual driver if the first detainee claimed it was someone else). In Mahamba’s case, it seems the first suspect did not confess to the crime and was not definitively placed as the driver, which shifted the investigation’s focus. Police officials noted they were “behind the heels” of the main suspect who was still at large and tied to the love affair motive  .
4. Consultation with Prosecutors: For serious cases, investigators often work closely with prosecutors from the early stages. A control prosecutor may be assigned to guide the police on what evidence is needed for a viable case. Before the 48-hour detention period lapses, the police must hand over the case docket to the NPA for a decision on whether to charge the suspect. In our scenario, by the time of the court deadline, the evidence against the first suspect was evidently insufficient – the prosecutors likely declined to place the case on the court roll against that individual. This is analogous to the procedure in the example of the Mpumalanga pupil’s murder case, where the suspect’s first court appearance was canceled because the NPA found the evidence inadequate and instructed further investigation  . Such prosecutorial scrutiny is a safeguard to ensure that someone is not prosecuted (or even formally accused in court) without a prima facie case.
5. Release or Formal Charge: If the evidence is insufficient or points to a different perpetrator, the proper protocol is to release the suspect. SAPS cannot legally hold a person beyond the constitutional time limits if they are not going to be charged. In violent crimes, this scenario is undesirable but not uncommon – police sometimes have to release a suspect and continue the investigation, rather than rushing to charge and risking a case collapse later due to lack of evidence. In doing so, best practice would be to document the reasons for release (usually noted in the docket that the suspect could not be linked to the crime at that time) and to keep an open line with the individual in case further information surfaces. Often a suspect released due to insufficient evidence might remain a “person of interest” – not formally accused, but on the radar. There may be instances where police warn such a person that the investigation is ongoing (without accusing them), or even request that they remain available for additional questioning later.
6. Continuing the Investigation: Releasing a suspect does not mean the case is closed. On the contrary, it should spur investigators to gather the missing evidence needed to catch and charge the correct offender. In high-profile violent crimes, police face pressure to show progress. In Mahamba’s case, after releasing the first suspect, SAPS had to intensify efforts to locate the fugitive Ghanaian suspect. Protocols here include issuing alerts to border stations, tracing the suspect’s digital footprints, and possibly invoking legal tools like Section 205 of the CPA. Section 205 allows investigators to obtain warrants compelling third parties (such as cellphone companies or banks) to hand over data – for example, to track the suspect’s phone location or financial transactions . Activists involved with the Mahamba family have openly questioned why such measures were not immediately used when the suspect was known to be communicating via WhatsApp and running his business remotely  . This suggests that a thorough, best-practice investigation should leverage all available resources – technology, inter-agency coordination (e.g., with border control or Interpol if the suspect might flee internationally), and community tips – to apprehend a violent crime suspect before evidence grows cold or the trail is lost.
7. Transparency and Communication: While not a formal “protocol,” in high-publicity cases it is wise for police to maintain communication with the public and the victims’ family about the status of the case. Explaining procedural actions (like why a suspect was released) can help manage public expectations and trust. In this case, the Gauteng Police Commissioner did publicly confirm the release and gave a rationale – essentially that the person detained was not the perpetrator and that the real suspect was still being pursued . This kind of communication, while it doesn’t satisfy the public’s demand for swift justice, at least provides some transparency about the investigation’s direction.
From the above, we can surmise how SAPS handled the first suspect: they located and detained him following the proper legal arrest procedures, impounded critical evidence (the vehicle), and upon determining he was not the actual killer, they released him rather than hold someone wrongfully. They continued the hunt for the true suspect, which aligns with protocol. However, whether every “best practice” was followed is debatable – for instance, could they have turned the first suspect into a source of information to catch the main suspect faster? Did they immediately utilize all forensic means (like phone tracking) to locate the fugitive? These questions tie into the critique of the investigation, which is wrapped up in the public reaction.
Public Concerns: Corruption, Bribery, and Police Transparency
The release of the suspect and the slow pace of the primary suspect’s arrest have fueled public concern and speculation about the integrity of the police investigation. In the court of public opinion, such delays and setbacks often raise suspicions of corruption, bribery, or mismanagement within law enforcement. South Africa, unfortunately, struggles with a perception (and not infrequent reality) of police corruption, especially in cases involving vulnerable foreign nationals. In this case, Emmanuel Mahamba was Zimbabwean, and the man accused of killing him is a foreign national as well – a situation that some fear might lead to prejudice or bribery affecting the pursuit of justice.
Community activists like Moreboys Munetsi, who is advocating for Mahamba’s family, have openly voiced these concerns. Munetsi cautioned that one must be “very careful and strategic… with a lot of politics and corruption in the police, the investigating officer might be corrupted.” . He referenced “widespread police corruption and political interference” as a real threat, although stopping short of directly accusing the officers in this case . Such statements reflect a lack of full confidence in SAPS’s ability to handle the case impartially and effectively. Allegations circulating on social media have even suggested scenarios like the suspect bribing his way out of immediate arrest. (In one account shared online, eyewitnesses claimed the driver tried bribing police officers on the scene right after the incident – an allegation that, if true, would be extremely serious.※) While these specific bribery claims are unverified, they contribute to public distrust.
※ Source: Tinotenda Hove via Instagram (Zimcitizennews), posted April 2025 – screenshot text alleging the suspect hit Mahamba twice, drove over him, and then attempted to bribe officers at the scene, according to unnamed eyewitnesses.
Beyond bribery, there’s concern about simple inefficiency or incompetence – for example, why, given a clear video and known vehicle, did the main suspect not get apprehended quickly? Many community members find it hard to understand how a person can be “on the run” yet reportedly still active on WhatsApp and at his business with impunity  . This feeds a narrative that either the police are not doing enough or someone is intentionally dragging their feet. The Zimbabwean community in Pretoria organized peaceful protests not only to demand the suspect’s arrest but also to call out what they perceive as a “lack of urgency from the South African Police Service.”   Such protests and public pressure underscore how transparency and trust have eroded in this case.
Corruption in the police force, when it occurs, can manifest as officers taking bribes to release suspects or to make evidence “disappear,” or as higher-ups interfering for personal or political reasons. South Africa has oversight mechanisms (like the Independent Police Investigative Directorate – IPID) to investigate police misconduct, and high-profile cases often attract media scrutiny that makes outright corruption harder to hide. In the Mahamba case, the eyes of two nations are watching (South Africans and Zimbabweans), making any malfeasance by police risky. Still, past incidents color public perception. Munetsi alluded to a “recent case where a witness was gunned [down] inside court” to illustrate the extreme lengths to which corruption and intimidation can go . He urged witness protection and careful handling of information, implying that if the suspect or his allies have resources, they might attempt to sabotage the investigation or harm those seeking justice .
Another aspect of public concern is transparency in police procedure. In crises of trust, the police can help by openly communicating what steps are being taken. The Gauteng police have made some statements – confirming the vehicle’s seizure, the first suspect’s release, and that they are actively searching for the culprit  . They also shared some details of the case’s context (like the argument and broken windscreen prior to the murder) to paint a clearer picture . However, from the public’s perspective, these updates have not been enough to quell the frustration. Many ask: with such evidence, “What’s really going on? Why is justice taking so long?” . In the absence of a quick arrest, every day that passes increases speculation that something behind the scenes isn’t right – whether it’s corruption or simply slowness.
In conclusion, the climate around the Mahamba case illustrates how critical trust and transparency are in police work. When police follow proper procedure (like releasing a suspect for lack of evidence), it may be legally correct but still perceived negatively if not well explained. Public concerns about corruption and mismanagement can undermine the legitimacy of the process. To counter this, SAPS must not only conduct a clean investigation but also be as open as possible about their actions (without compromising the case). The onus is on the authorities to demonstrate that the first suspect’s release was a matter of due process and not malfeasance, and that every effort is being made to capture the real killer. In doing so, they need to address the community’s fear that justice is being delayed or derailed by improper influences.
Comparisons and Precedents in Similar Cases
The scenario of a suspect being quickly arrested in a high-profile murder and then released due to insufficient evidence, while controversial, is not unprecedented in South Africa. Examining similar cases can shed light on how such situations are handled and perceived:
• Senzo Meyiwa Case (2014): Senzo Meyiwa, the captain of South Africa’s national soccer team, was shot and killed in 2014 in a case that gripped the nation. Police arrested a suspect shortly after the murder. However, within weeks, authorities withdrew the murder charges against that initial suspect because evidence was lacking . The magistrate’s court was told that the prosecution could not proceed as there was not enough evidence to link the man to the crime. This release sparked public disappointment and criticism of the police’s investigative competence. The case went unsolved for years, and it was only much later that a group of other suspects were arrested and put on trial. The Meyiwa case demonstrates how an premature arrest under public pressure can backfire if the evidence doesn’t hold up – it arguably wasted time and led to accusations of a botched investigation, although ultimately it may have been correct to not pursue a weak case. It also highlights how public and media scrutiny intensifies whenever a major-case suspect is let go, with people often suspecting either police ineptitude or interference. (In Meyiwa’s saga, there were even conspiracy theories of cover-ups.)
• Anene Booysen Case (2013): Anene Booysen’s brutal rape and murder in 2013 drew international outrage. Early in the investigation, multiple suspects were arrested. One of them, Jonathan Davids, was implicated and charged, but after deeper investigation, the NPA dropped charges against him citing “insufficient evidence to secure a conviction.”  Despite initial suspicion (including Booysen reportedly naming some of her attackers before dying), the prosecution determined that they could only successfully prosecute one of the arrested men (another suspect who confessed to involvement in the rape). Davids was freed and the case against the remaining accused proceeded. The NPA spokesperson in that case acknowledged the public’s “sense of shock and outrage” but maintained that prosecutors can only go to trial on sufficient evidence  . This precedent reinforces the principle that quality of evidence overrides quantity of outrage – a suspect cannot be kept in the dock just to satisfy anger, unless the evidence meets legal standards.
• Recent Mpumalanga Schoolgirl Murder (2025): As mentioned earlier, in a March 2025 case, a 17-year-old student was murdered and a 23-year-old man was arrested because he was the one who reported finding her body. However, the case fell apart quickly when the prosecutors found the information in the police docket was inconsistent and not incriminating. The suspect’s case was not enrolled in court at all, and he was immediately released  . Police were instructed to continue investigating to find the real perpetrator. The community in that case was understandably alarmed that the only person arrested was freed, but the authorities had to admit they simply had the wrong man. This is a very recent example underscoring that mistaken arrests happen, and the system has a mechanism (the decision not to enroll/charge) to correct course early on. It bears resemblance to Mahamba’s case in the sense that the first person held turned out not to be the culprit, necessitating refocusing the investigation.
• Other High-Profile Investigations: In some notorious cases, police have faced backlash for either arresting the “wrong” suspects or for releasing suspects under suspicious circumstances. One example is the Brett Kebble murder (2005) – initially, various people were arrested or suspected, and one key suspect was released and later turned state witness, revealing a convoluted conspiracy. Although a very different context (that was an assassination involving corrupt officials), it showed that early arrests can be misleading and that truth can emerge later, vindicating initial releases. Another example is the case of Baby Jordan murder (2005), where multiple suspects were arrested in a hit-for-hire killing; one suspect’s charges were withdrawn when evidence didn’t firmly place her at the scene, highlighting the need for concrete proof of participation for each accused. Each case has its unique facts, but they collectively illustrate the tightrope investigators walk: move fast enough to catch suspects, but not so fast as to violate rights or build a case on sand.
From these precedents, a few key lessons surface:
• It is legally and ethically preferable to release a potentially innocent suspect than to try to force a prosecution without evidence. Wrongful prosecution not only harms that individual but also lets the real perpetrator remain free, which is worse for justice in the long run. The Sowetan Live, reporting on the Mpumalanga case, quoted the NPA spokesperson explicitly: “The accused could not be linked to [the] murder… there was insufficient information and he was released.”  This encapsulates the guiding rationale in such situations.
• However, each instance of a release in a sensational case tends to erode public confidence a bit more, unless followed by clear progress in catching the true offender. In the Mahamba case, the outrage is amplified by the xenophobic undertones (a foreign victim and suspect) and the brutality of the crime on video. People fear that justice is not being equally served, or that the case might be swept under the rug if public pressure wanes. It places a great burden on SAPS and the NPA to prove through actions that justice will be done, even if delayed.
• These cases often lead to calls for police reform or better training. If the public perceives that the police repeatedly arrest and release suspects, they may accuse the police of incompetence or of violating people’s rights through hasty arrests. In response, police might emphasize that investigations are complex and not as straightforward as social media commentary suggests. In Mahamba’s case, police might defend their release of the first suspect by pointing to the above precedents: it’s standard procedure to not detain someone unless the evidence is there – a principle of a fair justice system.
In conclusion, precedent shows that while the release of an initial suspect can be legally proper, it is always a contentious outcome, scrutinized in hindsight. The measure of whether it was the correct decision usually becomes clear later: if the true culprit is found and evidence emerges validating why the first person was innocent, then the temporary public dissatisfaction is vindicated by the right result. If not, the case joins the unfortunate list of unsolved crimes and can stain the credibility of the police. The Emmanuel Mahamba case, still developing, stands at this crossroad – learning from past cases, the authorities must work swiftly to ensure it ends up in the “justice served” column of history, rather than as another cautionary tale.
Analysis: Police Action – Appropriate or Negligent?
Was the SAPS action of releasing the first suspect in the Mahamba murder case an appropriate adherence to legal standards or a negligent misstep? Based on the legal framework and facts discussed, the answer requires weighing the evidence available at the time against the duty of care police owed to the investigation and the public.
From a strict legal standpoint, the police appear to have acted appropriately in releasing the first suspect if indeed the evidence did not sufficiently link him to the commission of the crime. The law is clear that one cannot be detained or charged on a murder unless there is a prima facie case implicating them. The Commissioner’s statement that “unfortunately, it is not the suspect we are looking for”  strongly indicates that, after interrogation and investigation, police believed this individual was not the killer. It’s plausible that this man’s connection to the case was limited to possession of the vehicle (perhaps he was a friend, relative, or employee of the prime suspect who ended up with the truck after the incident). If he had a credible alibi or if forensic analysis (say, checking for blood, DNA, or his cell phone records) did not place him at the crime scene at the critical time, then holding him would not only be unjust – it would also be unlawful detention. By releasing him, SAPS complied with the principle that detention without evidence is unwarranted, as seen in comparable cases .
Moreover, releasing a wrongly accused person is not negligence; in fact, one could argue it shows a degree of investigative integrity – the willingness to correct course and focus on the right suspect rather than pinning the crime on a convenient fall guy. In the short term, it frustrates public expectations, but in the long term it aligns with the interests of justice. The overwhelming video evidence spoke to the brutality of the murder but not to the identity of the murderer, so it could not justify holding a person who, aside from proximity to the vehicle, might have had no involvement. Legally, the concept of “beyond reasonable doubt” is relevant only at trial, but even at charging stage, there must be a reasonable prospect of prosecution success. If that threshold wasn’t met, the police and NPA had little choice but to release.
However, the analysis cannot end there. We must also consider whether police acted diligently and prudently in their handling of the first suspect. Negligence in a police context would mean failing to do what a reasonable police officer in that situation would do – for example, releasing a suspect without exhausting all avenues to verify his story, or missing obvious evidence that actually would tie him to the crime. The public outcry, and even some expert criticism, hints at a fear that something was missed. Was it truly confirmed that the first suspect had no role (either as the driver or perhaps as an accomplice)? Did the investigators squeeze all the information they could out of that suspect about the main perpetrator’s whereabouts? If, hypothetically, the first suspect was a known associate of the fugitive and might have had knowledge of his escape plan, letting him go too readily could be seen as a lapse. Ideally, police would have kept him in custody until they were sure they got everything useful from him – but given the 48-hour limit, they would have needed to charge him with something to keep him longer (e.g., being an accessory after the fact, if evidence supported that). We don’t have public information suggesting he was charged as an accessory, which implies either there was no basis to do so, or an oversight in not considering it.
One point of contention is whether the evidence truly was lacking or whether law enforcement did not act quickly enough on the evidence at hand. For instance, community members asked why Section 205 (to track the suspect’s phone) wasn’t invoked immediately . If the main suspect was “continuing his business” and reachable by phone, critics argue the police should have nabbed him by now  . Does this reflect on the release of the first suspect? Indirectly, yes: perhaps by focusing on the wrong person initially, precious time was lost, allowing the real suspect to slip further away. That said, the first suspect’s detention did lead police to impound the vehicle – a valuable piece of evidence – so it was not a wasted effort. It’s the subsequent delay in capturing the real suspect that feeds the narrative of negligence.
Public perceptions aside, one must differentiate negligence from unfortunate necessity. The bar for calling the release negligent would be met if evidence later shows that the first suspect was in fact involved and that police let a guilty party go due to a shoddy inquiry or, worse, corrupt interference. At this juncture, there’s no concrete evidence of that. On the contrary, all signs point to the first suspect being someone connected to the case but not the murderer, as the police maintained. For example, had the CCTV clearly shown the suspect’s face and it matched the first detainee, releasing him would be inexcusable – but that’s not the case here. Or if eyewitnesses had pointed to him and police still released him, that would be deeply suspect. But information suggests the eyewitnesses identified a different person (the Ghanaian man). In fact, the narrative from witnesses and the victim’s circle consistently points to the romantic rival as the culprit  . Therefore, holding the wrong man would not only do no good, it could also violate that man’s rights and undermine the legitimacy of the case against the true suspect.
It’s also worth considering the alternative scenario: Had the police not released the first suspect, they would likely have had to charge him with Mahamba’s murder to keep him in custody. Doing so on flimsy evidence could have led to a case that collapses in court, or an innocent person being locked up for a crime he didn’t commit – outcomes that are far worse forms of negligence in the justice system. Additionally, mischarging someone can complicate the real case; defense attorneys for the true perpetrator could later point to the police’s own doubts (having arrested someone else) to raise questions. So, from an investigatory strategy perspective, refocusing on the correct suspect was the right move.
That said, the anger and distrust from the public indicate a perception of negligence, whether or not it’s factually true. To alleviate that, police might need to demonstrate more clearly what steps were taken to rule out the first suspect’s involvement. Transparency in explaining that could help. So far, the Commissioner’s public statements have been relatively general, which is understandable (they can’t divulge all details). But silence breeds speculation. In high-stakes cases, any hint of irregularity – such as a suspect being released when the video looked so damning – ignites theories of bribery or incompetence. The onus is now on SAPS to disprove those theories through action: by catching the real killer and by being open about their process.
In conclusion, when assessing appropriate vs. negligent in this context, it appears that the police acted within the bounds of proper legal procedure by releasing the first suspect, given the lack of a solid case against him . This was appropriate in terms of upholding the rule of law and the suspect’s rights. However, the situation also demands that the police act with urgency and thoroughness to avoid any actual negligence in pursuing the real perpetrator. Any delay or failure on that front will retroactively cast the initial release in a worse light. As of now, absent evidence of bad faith, one would lean towards the view that the release was a necessary course correction rather than negligence. It underscores the principle that justice must be evidence-driven, not driven by public outcry alone. The true measure of SAPS’s conduct will be seen in how swiftly and effectively they can now close the net on the fugitive suspect and build a strong case against him. Only by doing so will they dispel the shadow of doubt and prove that, despite early hiccups, they are committed to delivering justice for Emmanuel Mahamba by the book.
Conclusion
The Emmanuel Mahamba murder case highlights the delicate balance between swift justice and due process in South African criminal law. Our investigatory analysis finds that the South African Police Service’s release of the first suspect was rooted in legal necessity: an arrest must be supported by evidence, and detention without a charge cannot be extended beyond the clear limits set by law  . In the face of public outrage and heartbreaking evidence of the crime itself, the police had to adhere to principles that protect even suspects’ rights – principles that ultimately protect everyone by requiring the state to prove its case with reliable evidence.
We have seen that:
• Legal Standards compelled the police to either charge or release the suspect within 48 hours. With prosecutors citing insufficient evidence, release was the legally correct action, echoing other cases where suspects were freed for lack of a clear link to the crime . The threshold for arrest (“reasonable suspicion” ) was met to detain the man with the vehicle, but the threshold for charging (“prima facie case”) was not, once facts were examined.
• CCTV Footage, while admissible and crucial, provided a vivid account of the crime but not a definitive identification of the criminal. It underscored the brutality and intent, which fuels public anger, but without a clear image of the perpetrator’s face, it could not by itself justify pinning the crime on a particular individual beyond reasonable doubt. It needed backup from other evidence.
• Eyewitness Testimony emerged as a key factor for identification. Reliable witness identification (handled with due caution in law ) or other corroborative evidence (forensic, digital, etc.) was required to connect the suspect to the scene. In this case, witnesses and circumstantial evidence pointed to a different individual (the fugitive lover) as the driver, aligning with the decision that the first suspect was not the culprit.
• Police Protocols were followed in terms of evidence gathering and suspect handling: the vehicle was seized, a suspect was questioned, and when that lead proved to be a dead end for attribution, the suspect was released and the investigation redirected. Ideally, SAPS should continue to follow best practices by leveraging all investigative tools (warrants for phone tracking, inter-agency alerts, etc.) to capture the real suspect . The frustration of the community is evidence of how critical it is for police to not only do the right thing but be seen doing everything possible.
• Public Concerns about corruption and mismanagement, while understandable, have not been substantiated by hard evidence in this case. They do, however, reflect a wider challenge: police must earn trust through transparency and results. Historical precedents of bribery and bungled cases hang heavy, so the margin for error is slim. SAPS must demonstrate integrity at every step to avoid any appearance that justice can be bought or derailed. Activists have rightly called for vigilance, and the police will need to be equally vigilant against internal or external subversion of the case  .
Looking at similar cases and outcomes, it becomes evident that what feels like “inaction” (releasing a suspect) can in fact be the justice system actively preventing a wrongful action (wrongful prosecution). Nonetheless, for Emmanuel Mahamba’s grieving family and a outraged public, justice delayed is justice denied – at least until the true perpetrator is caught. The police now face the task of transforming a legally sound decision into a just outcome by ensuring the real killer is swiftly apprehended and brought before court. If they succeed, the decision to release the wrong man will stand as proof of due process; if they fail, it will be remembered as a symbol of alleged incompetence or worse.
Ultimately, this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper procedure in law enforcement. Emotions run high in heinous crimes, but the rule of law demands patience and proof. The coming weeks will be crucial. The hope is that SAPS will apply all the lessons learned from past cases to this one – invoking all legal tools, protecting witnesses, resisting any corrupt offers, and communicating honestly – so that Emmanuel Mahamba’s killer is brought to book. Only then will the question of police conduct be fully answered, with the scales tipping decisively towards justice rather than negligence.
Sources:
• South African Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 and Constitution (Bill of Rights) – arrest and detention provisions   .
• News reports on the Mahamba case: ZimEye (D. Moyo, 17 April 2025) confirming suspect release and public criticism  ; ZimEye (Correspondent, 17 April 2025) on suspect still at large and community protests  ; IOL News (J. Maromo, 2025) on details of the incident and police statements  .
• Commentary on evidence: SecuritySA (Nov 2003) on CCTV admissibility ; De Rebus (Nov 2024) on eyewitness ID reliability .
• National Prosecuting Authority decisions in comparable cases: Sowetan Live (17 Mar 2025) – Mpumalanga pupil murder suspect release  ; AllAfrica/News24Wire (11 Nov 2014) – Meyiwa suspect charges withdrawn ; Mail & Guardian (21 May 2013) – Anene Booysen case suspect freed .
• Public commentary: ZimEye (F. Hove, 15 April 2025) – interview with activist on police corruption concerns  ; Community social media reactions (April 2025) voicing frustration (#JusticeForRivonia) and alleging bribery attempts (Tinotenda H., Instagram, April 2025).
By A Correspondent
Popular comedian Charles Mapalume, widely known by his stage name Marabha, has died. The beloved entertainer passed away on Saturday in Harare, leaving fans across Zimbabwe and beyond in mourning.
The news was confirmed by fellow entertainer DJ Shugeta, who shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved brother and friend Charles Mapalume, who was also known as Marabha. He passed away this morning at Harare Hospital. Fly High King,” he wrote.
Marabha rose to fame with his natural comedic flair, captivating audiences through street theatre, skits, and television appearances. He was best known for his performances alongside other local comedy legends and had a unique ability to blend humor with real-life stories, which endeared him to many.
He rose to prominence alongside other household names in Zimbabwean comedy, including Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima, Phiri, Bonjisi, Nyondeni, and Nyimo. Together, they helped shape a generation of urban Zimbabwean entertainment, with Marabha’s charisma making him a standout figure.
Tributes have poured in from fans, colleagues, and public figures, all celebrating the life and legacy of a man who brought laughter and light to countless lives.
Details regarding his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
The dancehall singer Silent Killer popularly known as Ngwere, failed to fly to UK because of a dream.
“Silent Killer refused to board a UK-bound flight because he had a dream it would explode. He locked himself in the Airport toilet.” said Fred Matenga of Y2K Promotions
Ngwere was supposed to perform at the UK SAMA Festival UK this Saturday.
He was reached for a comment.
By A Correspondent
Speaking during Independence Day celebrations in Nembudziya, Gokwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced plans to rehabilitate Zimbabwe’s road network — a task that has remained largely unfulfilled over the past 45 years.
Mnangagwa, who has been a central figure in Zimbabwean politics since 1980 as part of former President Robert Mugabe’s government, took over leadership in 2017 following a military-assisted power transition.
In his remarks, Mnangagwa expressed optimism about recent developments and reiterated his government’s commitment to infrastructure improvements.
“It is encouraging to note that since 2024, several high-impact projects have been successfully completed across vital sectors such as energy, e-Government, e-learning, agriculture, and infrastructure development,” he said.
He added that similar attention would now be directed toward the country’s deteriorating road system: “The same focus and order will be applied to our road network, which has long been a source of concern and disruption. Improving working conditions for employees remains a top priority of the Second Republic.”
Sports Correspondent
Luke Masomere has landed a new role as technical director at Central Region Soccer League Division One outfit Hardrock, shortly after parting ways with Castle Lager Premier Soccer League side Triangle United.
Hardrock’s Media Liaison Officer, Garrick Matava, confirmed the appointment in a statement, highlighting the club’s need for experienced leadership as it navigates its inaugural season in Division One.
“Hard Rock Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Luke ‘Vahombe’ Masomere as Technical Director, effective immediately,” said Matava. “Masomere brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record. In his new role, he will lead the technical department and oversee all aspects of team preparation and development.”
Masomere expressed gratitude for the opportunity and vowed to work towards achieving the club’s goals.
His appointment comes just days after his exit from Triangle FC, where he was dismissed following a disappointing run of results — earning only one point from six matches and leaving the team at the bottom of the PSL standings.
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CAPS United president Farai Jere has put to rest speculation surrounding head coach Lloyd Chitembwe’s future at the club, affirming that he will remain in charge despite the team’s poor start to the season.
The Green Machine is currently struggling in 17th position with four points after six matchdays, sparking calls for Chitembwe’s dismissal following losses to Ngezi Platinum Stars and Highlanders. However, Jere expressed confidence in Chitembwe’s abilities, citing his experience and achievements, including the 2016 championship win.
“Lloyd Chitembwe is not going anywhere,” Jere stated. “We value his experience, and I plan to extend his contract by another three years.” Chitembwe’s current contract is set to expire, but Jere’s intention is clear.
Instead of replacing Chitembwe, the club is looking to appoint a new assistant coach. Jere revealed that they are close to finalizing the appointment, having interviewed a promising candidate who is a CAF A-qualified coach with championship-winning experience. The new assistant coach is expected to join the team within two weeks.
Sports Correspondent
Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Ethan Sutherland has pledged his allegiance to Zimbabwe, committing to play for the Warriors. The 18-year-old made the decision following a fruitful engagement with ZIFA Global and Diaspora chair Marshall Gore and vice captain Marshall Munetsi.
Sutherland, who previously represented Scotland’s under-19 team, has obtained a Zimbabwean passport, making him eligible to don the Warriors’ jersey. This exciting development is set to bolster the team’s attacking prowess.
Picture of Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa and Minister Tatenda Mavetera wearing similar hats
Is it by coincidence or by design, Auxillia Mnangagwa (standing wearing black visibly unhappy)
By A Correspondent
HARARE – Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa on Friday delivered an Easter message to the nation, calling on Zimbabweans to remain hopeful and steadfast in the face of persistent economic hardships.
Chamisa, who leads the country’s main opposition movement, used the sacred Christian holiday to encourage unity and spiritual renewal, drawing inspiration from the message of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
“Wishing you a blessed Good Friday and a joyful Easter! May the sacrifice and love of Christ bring everlasting hope and happiness to you all,” said Chamisa in his message shared via social media. “Here’s to new beginnings — in life and in everything. Love and peace to you.”
The youthful politician avoided making direct political commentary but his silence on the upcoming Independence Day celebrations was telling. While Easter was highlighted as a time of hope and renewal, Chamisa did not acknowledge the national holiday set for April 18 — a move seen by many observers as a quiet protest against what he has previously described as the “hijacking” of independence by the ruling Zanu PF.
His subtle omission comes amid growing public frustration over economic mismanagement, political repression, and widespread poverty under the current administration.
“Enjoy this long weekend. May your weekend be filled with memorable moments, prayerful togetherness and kind conversations,” Chamisa added, striking a tone of warmth and reflection.
As the country faces continued economic woes, Chamisa’s Easter message offered a moment of encouragement and spiritual upliftment, while simultaneously drawing attention to a deeper national discontent — without ever mentioning it outright.
Twisted steel, mangled wheels, and the overturned carcasses of rail wagons paint a haunting picture of devastation on the railway tracks outside Gwanda. In the aftermath of the collision, a once-pristine Rovos Rail luxury carriage lies crumpled and torn, its fine finish reduced to wreckage. Coal is strewn across the ground like spilled ink, blackening the tracks and surrounding bush. Emergency responders, clad in heavy firefighting gear, climb across the unstable ruins, working against time to rescue the injured. Amid the chaos, stretcher teams carefully lift survivors from the tangle of metal and shattered machinery, as stunned onlookers gather below. Each image tells a story of sudden disaster, human resilience, and a scene transformed from opulence to calamity.
Outspoken Zanu PF official Killer Zivhu has taken aim at Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, branding him a political misfit with minimal national support.
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, Zivhu dismissed Tshabangu’s political influence, stating:
“Tshabangu may win court battles, but uniting with him would be a disaster for the nation and the economy. His lack of support across the country is clear — he can’t even muster 100 votes nationwide. What matters most right now is putting the country’s interests first.”
By A Correspondent
HARARE – Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa on Friday delivered an Easter message to the nation, calling on Zimbabweans to remain hopeful and steadfast in the face of persistent economic hardships.
Chamisa, who leads the country’s main opposition movement, used the sacred Christian holiday to encourage unity and spiritual renewal, drawing inspiration from the message of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
“Wishing you a blessed Good Friday and a joyful Easter! May the sacrifice and love of Christ bring everlasting hope and happiness to you all,” said Chamisa in his message shared via social media. “Here’s to new beginnings — in life and in everything. Love and peace to you.”
The youthful politician avoided making direct political commentary but his silence on the upcoming Independence Day celebrations was telling. While Easter was highlighted as a time of hope and renewal, Chamisa did not acknowledge the national holiday set for April 18 — a move seen by many observers as a quiet protest against what he has previously described as the “hijacking” of independence by the ruling Zanu PF.
His subtle omission comes amid growing public frustration over economic mismanagement, political repression, and widespread poverty under the current administration.
“Enjoy this long weekend. May your weekend be filled with memorable moments, prayerful togetherness and kind conversations,” Chamisa added, striking a tone of warmth and reflection.
As the country faces continued economic woes, Chamisa’s Easter message offered a moment of encouragement and spiritual upliftment, while simultaneously drawing attention to a deeper national discontent — without ever mentioning it outright.
Picture of Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa and Minister Tatenda Mavetera wearing similar hats
Is it by coincidence or by design, Auxillia Mnangagwa (standing wearing black visibly unhappy)
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering the closure of almost 30 American embassies and consulates worldwide, including multiple missions across the African continent.
According to a CNN report released Wednesday and based on a leaked internal document from the U.S. State Department, the embassies in the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Lesotho, and South Sudan are on the list of those potentially facing closure.
Naija News gathered that the document also proposes shutting down a U.S. consulate in South Africa.
“The document recommends closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates. Many of the posts are in Europe and Africa, though they also include locations in Asia and the Caribbean. These include embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.
“The list also includes five consulates in France, two in Germany, two in Bosnia and Herzegovina, one in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa, and one in South Korea,” the report stated.
This move reportedly forms part of a comprehensive strategy by the Trump camp—allegedly with the backing of the Elon Musk-supported Department of Government Efficiency—to streamline government operations and significantly reduce the budget and personnel of federal institutions like the State Department.
The same classified memo reportedly outlines further downsizing of U.S. presence in strategic nations such as Somalia and Iraq—locations long associated with America’s anti-terrorism efforts.
So far, there has been no confirmation as to whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio has endorsed the recommendations, and the State Department has refrained from commenting on the content of the leaked proposal. — NaijaNews
Floods, Prophecy & Defiance: Independence Day Chaos in Gokwe
Torrential Rains Turn Celebration into Chaos
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A deluge submerges the Independence Day venue in Gokwe, turning the grounds into a muddy lake. The much-anticipated 45th Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe, Zimbabwe erupted into pandemonium when torrential rains pounded the open-air venue mid-ceremony. Tents shuddered under sheets of rain as floodwaters coursed through the field, swallowing up red carpets and plastic chairs. Within minutes, what was meant to be a proud showcase of national unity became an impromptu battleground against nature, with officials scrambling to secure equipment and attendees screaming over the howling wind.
https://x.com/zimeye/status/1913157263755223214?s=46
Electrical cables and makeshift structures were soon half-submerged, raising safety fears and forcing a pause in the official program. Organizers had expected over 60,000 people to attend the festivities – but none anticipated that the heavens themselves would unleash a fury on this day.
Soaked but Determined: Thousands Press On
Crowds trudge through thick mud and standing water, refusing to abandon the celebrations. Despite the chaos and ankle-deep mud, thousands of patriotic Zimbabweans pressed on toward the flooded arena, soaked but determined to commemorate their hard-won independence. In an astonishing show of resolve, families with children clutched Zimbabwean flags under torrential rain, and villagers formed human chains to pull each other through swampy patches. “Mvura hayimizwe tava pano!” (“Rain won’t stop us now!”) shouted one elder, her voice barely audible over the downpour, as she urged youths forward. ZimEye correspondents and on-site observers like C.H. Mukungunugwa described streams of people marching onward “soaked but determined,” unwilling to let the tempest douse their celebratory spirit. What began as a political spectacle – a rural district’s turn to host the national gala – transformed into a test of public defiance. With President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other dignitaries looking on in astonishment, the crowd’s grit turned the flooded fiasco into a different kind of history: one of a people unbowed by the elements.
“Denga RaBvuma” – Prophecy in the Storm
Floodwaters engulf infrastructure at the venue as dark clouds loom overhead. As water pooled on the stage and officials huddled under tarps, a spiritual narrative was already taking shape online. Many on social media began linking the sudden downpour to prophecy and divine will. “Denga RaBvuma,” one post read – Shona for “The heavens have agreed.” That cryptic phrase, first shared by Mukungunugwa, reverberated across Facebook and X as onlookers suggested higher forces were at play. In the eye of this storm of interpretations stands Prophet Andrew Wutaunashe, a prominent cleric who had spent the past four weeks in fervent prayer leading up to this day. Wutaunashe – a spiritual advisor with ties to the ruling establishment – had publicly prayed for God to “roll back the waters” of war veteran Blessed Geza . “Geza,” whose very name means “to bathe” in Shona, has been calling for the nation’s cleansing. Wutaunashe warned that Geza’s rising influence was like a flood of its own, intended to “bathe the nation” in a purifying deluge . For weeks he implored heaven to hold back this metaphorical tide. Now, actual rains of biblical intensity were drenching the land at the very moment of national celebration. Was it a coincidence, or a heavenly reply? To some, the cloudburst felt like a prophetic drama made real – as if the elements were echoing the struggle between opposing prayers and destinies for Zimbabwe. The phrase “Denga RaBvuma” gained momentum, implying that the heavens had indeed concurred with a divine plan – be it blessing or judgment – on this Independence Day.
Divine Blessing or Prophetic Warning?
As evening fell over Gokwe with the parade ground still waterlogged and the Independence Flame sputtering against the damp air, an uneasy awe settled on witnesses. The faithful saw blessing in the deluge – a nation literally bathed on its birthday, perhaps washed clean for a new chapter. Skeptics and opposition voices murmured about omens and warnings long foretold yet unheeded. In the aftermath of this unforgettable celebration-turned-surreal-baptism, Zimbabweans are left to ponder the meaning behind the madness. Was this torrential downpour a sign of divine approval, a cleansing benediction over 45 years of independence – or a prophetic warning delivered in rain and mud, a message from above that went unheeded? Only the heavens know, and they aren’t done talking yet.
Sources: The Sunday News ; ZimEye (Apr 18, 2025); AllAfrica/New Zimbabwe ; NewsDay Zimbabwe .
By A Correspondent| The trial of Harare businessman, Michael Smith who is accused of defrauding MA Auto Suppliers trading as Mr Cruiser resumed at the Harare Magistrates Court.
Smith faces multiple charges including theft of trust property, fraud, and corruptly concealing transactions.
Former Stores Manager at MA Auto Suppliers, Tony Blanchard testified about Smith’s alleged involvement in fraudulent activities.
He claimed Smith would instruct him to categorise company purchases as “personal orders” and exclude them from the company system.
“I recall on 29 June 2021 the company bought 2 Cargo/Fridge Slides from Front Runner and the slides were delivered at the company. When they arrived, I was told by the accused that the slides were personal order and that I should not receive and enter them into the system,” Blanchard said.
He testified to similar incidents involving purchases from South Africa including Material Canvas Ripstop, roof rack parts, ice marker machines and a National Luna Fridge.
In each case, Smith allegedly instructed Blanchard to treat the purchases as personal orders.
Two witnesses from the Zimbabwe Republic Police CID Forensic Department, Martin Urayayi and Samukeliso Ndlovu, analysed Smith’s communication gadgets and found evidence of incriminating WhatsApp conversations and audio recordings.
“We are the ones who did forensic extraction of documents tendered before this Honourable Court. Extracted audios, WhatsApp communications between accused and people he was conniving with revealed that he committed the offence,” they testified.
The court has been presented with laboratory reports and flash discs containing evidence of Smith’s alleged wrongdoing.
The defense raised no objections to the evidence.
The trial has been postponed to April 22, 2025, for continuation with four more witnesses expected to testify.
Smith’s alleged fraudulent activities resulted in a significant loss for MA Auto Suppliers with estimates suggesting at least $38,000 and R124,000 was involved.
Bennde Mutale, South Africa — In a dramatic operation underscoring the deepening crisis of cross-border livestock theft, South African police have arrested three men for allegedly stealing and smuggling 88 goats from Zimbabwe into South Africa.
The suspects, aged between 31 and 39, were apprehended on Tuesday in the Bennde Mutale area of Limpopo Province during a coordinated tactical operation involving law enforcement agencies from both Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malasela Ledwaba, confirmed the arrests and revealed that the operation was led by the Makuya Police following an intelligence tip-off.
“Concerted efforts by police in the province to fight border crime are yielding results, and this was evident when the Makuya Police arrested three suspects aged between 31 and 39 for smuggling of livestock,” said Colonel Ledwaba.
Authorities seized a white Isuzu 4×4 pickup truck with a canopy and a large trailer carrying the stolen goats, with the total estimated value of the livestock and vehicle placed at R470,000.
“Police received intelligence information about a suspicious vehicle fully loaded with goats suspected to have been smuggled from Zimbabwe into South Africa,” Col Ledwaba said. “The vehicle was monitored until it reached the tar road in Masisi, where it was intercepted.”
The suspects were unable to provide documentation verifying ownership of the animals and now face charges of possession of suspected stolen property. They are expected to appear in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court. Investigations remain ongoing.
This case highlights the ongoing scourge of stock theft along the porous Zimbabwe–South Africa border, where criminal syndicates are known to target goats, cattle, and sheep. The animals are often transported through unmonitored crossing points and sold on the South African black market for up to five times their original value.
Authorities estimate that while goats may fetch between R600 and R1,000 in Zimbabwe, they can be resold in South Africa for R3,500 or more, making livestock smuggling a highly lucrative enterprise.
In response, both governments have intensified joint patrols, intelligence-sharing, and community policing efforts aimed at dismantling transnational livestock theft networks. Local farmers and residents are also playing a role by forming cross-border neighbourhood watch groups to monitor suspicious activity and report incidents promptly.
Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling rural crimes and called on community members to remain vigilant and report any suspected smuggling operations.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Transformer Vandals Slapped with Combined 90-Year Jail Term as Supreme Court Upholds Sentence — While Million-Dollar ZESA Looters Walk Free
Two Gweru siblings who were part of a transformer vandalism syndicate that plunged parts of the city into darkness have been sentenced to a combined 90 years in prison—a staggering penalty for crimes that caused losses of under $100,000 to the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA).
Jacob and Masimba Chibunhe, convicted of siphoning 11,530 liters of transformer oil between February and June 2013, will now each serve over 40 years in prison after both the High Court and the Supreme Court upheld their convictions and sentencing.
In a fresh ruling, a Supreme Court panel comprising Justices Susan Mavangira, Lewis Mathonsi, and Joseph Musakwa dismissed the brothers’ appeal in its entirety, finding no fault in the lower courts’ decisions.
“The argument… that the court misdirected itself by failing to treat the counts as one for sentencing purposes… is without merit,” the judges stated. “No grounds for interference have been established. The appeal is wholly without merit and stands dismissed.”
Jacob was sentenced to 45 years for 17 counts, and Masimba to 48 years for 18 counts, under a law that imposes a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years per count for tampering with electricity infrastructure.
Yet the harshness of the sentencing has stirred public outrage, particularly in light of the state’s apparent paralysis in pursuing justice in far more consequential electricity-related corruption scandals—most notably involving Wicknell Chivayo.
Chivayo, a businessman with powerful political connections, was awarded over $5 million by ZESA for a solar project in Gwanda that never materialized. Despite receiving funds for pre-commencement works—allegedly without delivering anything of substance—Chivayo has never been convicted, and continues to enjoy state protection and luxury.
“So two poor men who looted transformer oil worth less than $100,000 between them get 90 years in prison, but a politically-connected tycoon who bled over $5 million from the same institution is celebrated and untouched by the law?” a legal commentator asked rhetorically. “This is not justice. This is selective accountability.”
ZESA has previously reported that replacing a single vandalised transformer costs between $10,000 and $50,000, meaning the brothers’ crimes, while serious, pale in comparison to the scale of looting carried out by elites with state backing.
The Chibunhe brothers used a red Honda Fit to move across Gweru between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., targeting transformers, stealing oil, and selling it to omnibus operators. They were part of a broader syndicate that included James Mahachi and Francis Madziva. Only the lower-level actors have faced the full force of the law.
In contrast, despite numerous court appearances and media exposes, Chivayo remains unscathed—frequently pictured rubbing shoulders with top ZANU-PF officials, and flaunting wealth on social media.
The contrast is damning—and speaks to a justice system that comes down hard on the powerless while shielding the powerful.
By A Correspondent…
The headmaster of a primary school in Shurugwi has landed in hot water after allegedly diverting funds meant for pupils’ national examinations.
Emmanuel Hove (52), who leads Dombojena Primary School, was brought before the Shurugwi Magistrates’ Court accused of fraudulently using US$1,745 that had been collected from 77 candidates for their November ZIMSEC examination fees.
Presiding magistrate Patricia Gwetsai released Hove on US$100 bail with strict conditions — he must not contact State witnesses, is required to report weekly to the local police station, and must remain at his homestead under the jurisdiction of Chief Nhema.
According to prosecutor Kwanele Njini from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the funds were collected from the pupils but never submitted to the examination board. Since Dombojena Primary is not an authorized exam centre, Hove was tasked with registering the learners at nearby Railway Block Primary School.
The issue surfaced when Kundai Pedzi, the school’s deputy head, followed up on the registration process and learned from Railway Block Primary that the 77 students had not been registered.
The matter was promptly reported to authorities, resulting in Hove’s arrest.
A devastating incident has shaken the community of Penhalonga, Manicaland Province, after a 46-year-old taxi driver was fatally shot by three unidentified men he had picked up, believing they were legitimate passengers heading to Stapleford Estate.
The incident unfolded on Monday afternoon around 4:30 PM when the suspects, posing as passengers, hired the taxi driver, Rodgers Murimbechi, and another individual, Ronald Simbarashe Mazura (20), for a fare of US$20 to Muchena Business Centre. Upon reaching Nyahunga Bridge, one of the suspects pulled out a firearm and ordered Murimbechi to stop the vehicle at gunpoint. The suspects then robbed their victims of valuables, including an undisclosed amount of money and a cellphone, before forcing them back into the vehicle.
The suspects drove the taxi to a secluded area near the Drenan turn-off, where they ordered Mazura and Murimbechi to exit the vehicle. In a brutal act, one of the suspects shot Murimbechi multiple times in the stomach before fleeing the scene in the stolen Honda Fit (AFF 7694). Mazura sought help, but Murimbechi succumbed to his injuries before assistance arrived. The body was later taken to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
According to Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, the police are investigating the incident and pursuing the suspects, who remain at large. The community is left in shock following this tragic event.
By A Correspondent
In a heartbreaking incident that highlights the perilous state of the country’s roads, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera tragically lost three relatives in a horrific car accident last week.
In a statement, Mavetera shared the devastating news, expressing the immense pain her family has endured:
“This past week, our family was walking through an unimaginable storm. We lost our beloved son-in-law, Edward Tatenda Mubaiwa, in a tragic car accident. Tatenda was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a man of great kindness. His sudden departure has left us shattered.”
Adding to the grief, Mavetera revealed that their daughter, Chido, is currently hospitalized, fighting for her life after the crash. The couple’s 2-month-old baby, Treasure Mutsawashe, now faces a future without the father who adored her.
“To make matters even more painful, our daughter Chido is currently hospitalised, fighting for her health. They have a precious 2-month-old baby, Treasure Mutsawashe, who now needs all the love and prayers we can gather.”
Mavetera expressed her deep sorrow, calling for prayers for her daughter’s recovery, the strength to endure the tragedy, and the well-being of little Treasure, who will grow up knowing how deeply her father loved her.
“At this dark hour, we humbly ask for your prayers for Chido’s healing, for strength to endure this pain, and for little Treasure, who will grow up knowing how much her father loved her.”
Tatenda’s memory, Mavetera stated, will forever remain in their hearts, and the family is relying on faith to help them through the unbearable loss.
“His memory will forever remain in our hearts. We trust God to carry us through this unbearable loss. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18.”
The tragic accident also highlighted the worsening condition of the country’s roads, which have become increasingly hazardous. “A light gone too soon,” Mavetera reflected as she announced the burial of her son-in-law in Macheke last Friday.
“This loss is a glaring reminder of the dangers we face every day on our roads, which have unfortunately become a death trap.”
By A Correspondent
Outspoken Zanu PF official Killer Zivhu has taken aim at Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, branding him a political misfit with minimal national support.
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, Zivhu dismissed Tshabangu’s political influence, stating:
“Tshabangu may win court battles, but uniting with him would be a disaster for the nation and the economy. His lack of support across the country is clear — he can’t even muster 100 votes nationwide. What matters most right now is putting the country’s interests first.”
BREAKING: Guvamatanga Exposed in $60 Million Scandal — Leaked Letter Shows Finance Secretary Compromised Treasury to Guarantee Shady Private Loan
Harare, 17 April 2025 — Zimbabwe’s Permanent Secretary for Finance, George Guvamatanga, has been exposed in a potentially explosive corruption scandal after a leaked government letter revealed he personally committed $60 million in public funds to guarantee a questionable $20 million private loan.
The letter, dated 24 March 2025 and addressed to Ecobank Zimbabwe, shows Guvamatanga acting on behalf of the Ministry of Finance to guarantee loan repayments for Valley Seeds (Private) Limited, a shadowy private company. The Ministry commits to pay $5 million per month over 12 months — totaling $60 million, three times the actual loan amount.
…………..
In the letter, Guvamatanga writes:
“MOF do hereby irrevocably guarantee and bind ourselves to the said Bank as sureties and co-principal debtors for the repayment on demand of all such sum or sums of money as Valley Seeds (Private) Limited hereafter will owe under the above mentioned facility…”
The Ministry goes even further, promising:
“MOF irrevocably undertakes to expunge the above Legacy Debt at a rate of USD 5,000,000.00 (Five Million United States Dollars) monthly…”
Even more shockingly, Guvamatanga authorizes Ecobank to directly debit government funds if Valley Seeds defaults:
“MOF hereby grants Ecobank the right to directly debit an amount of up to USD5,000,000.00… from the MOF if there are any delays in receipt of the Legacy Debt payments…”
“This Is Stinking Corruption”
Prominent activist Jealousy Mawarire condemned the deal, declaring:
“This is stinking corruption… Why is the Ministry of Finance paying $60 million for a $20 million loan? Does it therefore imply that Ecobank is making a profit of $40 million from a structure where they outlaid $20 million?”
He also questioned why such a deal was signed outside the Public Debt Management Act, without Parliament’s approval:
“All Gvt Loans and guarantees should be subject to the Public Debt Management Act and Parliament should be informed at all times.”
Why Is Guvamatanga the Sole Executor?
Guvamatanga’s name is the only one on the letter. He signs off the deal alone, stating that he has been authorized to:
“…represent the Ministry and sign this document and give effect to the above said arrangement until the facility has been paid in full.”
@mawarirej Mawarire blasted this setup, asking:
“Why would the Ministry appoint Guvamatanga… to be the principal executor in a private transaction? If everything is transparent, why can’t future Finance Permanent Secretaries uphold the same deal?”
Serious Red Flags
This arrangement has triggered widespread alarm for several reasons:
•Public funds are backing a private entity with no clarity on ownership or public benefit.
•The Ministry promises immunity from future policy changes, shielding the deal from incoming administrations.
•There is no evidence Parliament approved this guarantee, as required by law.
•The deal commits taxpayers to pay triple the loan value, without explanation.
The letter states that “all facility fees will be borne by Valley Seeds,” but with the Ministry essentially covering the entire $60 million, this clause appears meaningless.
Who Is Valley Seeds?
Despite being listed in Treasury books as holding over $191 million in “legacy debt”, Valley Seeds remains an opaque, private firm with no known public profile. Its strategic importance remains unexplained.
With Zimbabweans reeling from inflation, unemployment, and public sector collapse, the revelation that the Treasury is secretly backing a private firm’s debts with $60 million in taxpayer money has triggered urgent calls for investigation.
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More to follow as we trace the money and the people behind Valley Seeds.
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Magunje, Zimbabwe – April 17, 2025 | A devastating road traffic accident at Magunje Turn-Off along the Chinhoyi-Karoi highway has claimed the lives of at least six people, according to initial reports on Thursday.
The tragic collision occurred when a light vehicle, believed to be a white Nissan AD van, was involved in a head-on crash with a heavy freight truck belonging to KRL Freight Logistics. The impact of the crash was so severe that the smaller vehicle was mangled beyond recognition, with its entire front section completely torn apart.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the aftermath as horrifying, with debris scattered across the roadside and emergency services struggling to retrieve bodies from the wreckage. “It was a terrible sight. You couldn’t even tell how many people were in the car initially,” said one bystander who arrived shortly after the crash.
Preliminary reports suggest that excessive speed or a possible misjudgment during overtaking may have contributed to the collision, although official investigations are still underway.
Police and emergency responders arrived at the scene quickly, but sadly, six people were confirmed dead on the spot. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released as authorities work to notify the next of kin.
The Chinhoyi-Karoi highway has seen a worrying rise in fatal accidents in recent years, raising concerns over road safety enforcement and driver behavior on this major route linking key towns in Mashonaland West.
Authorities are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly on highways where traffic volumes and speeds are high. Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a full investigation into the incident.
Further details will be provided as they become available.
Sports Correspondent
Football fans are in for a thrilling showdown this Friday as rising football powerhouses Simba Bhora and FC Platinum face off in the Uhuru Cup, set to take place in Gokwe.
The match is part of the festivities celebrating Zimbabwe’s 45th year of Independence, with preparations already in full swing in the Midlands town. The game promises high energy and intense competition as both teams look to make a statement in this symbolic fixture.
Simba Bhora, quickly establishing themselves as serious contenders in Zimbabwean football, will be eager to prove their mettle against the seasoned and decorated FC Platinum side. FC Platinum, a dominant force in the domestic league over the past few years, will be looking to maintain their strong reputation and show their class in this national event.
Local authorities and organizers in Gokwe are making final touches to ensure a successful and memorable Uhuru Cup. The event is expected to draw large crowds and foster a spirit of unity and celebration in honor of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day.
Fans across the country will be watching closely as these two football giants collide in a match that’s more than just about points — it’s about pride, passion, and national identity.
As ZANU PF UZ-grantee Fadzayi Mahere and the discredited Sengezo Tshabangu become the first opposition characters to win disputed court cases, Prof Welshman Ncube’s CCC makeshift has admitted that the Mnangagwa campaigner’s win is now irreversible. The institution has released the following statement stating:
Sengezo Tshabangu v Citizens Coalition for Change
We, together with our lawyers, have now had the opportunity to study Justice Dube’s judgment in favourof Sengezo Tshabangu which judgement is unappealableto the Supreme Court because it is a default judgment. The judgment was arrived at by holding that our opposition to Tshabangu’s application was improperly before the court because of two errors which we made in our papers. The first of which was a typographical error which wrongly referred to CCC as the 1st Applicant instead of the 5th Respondent in the one paragraph in which we were saying the President is authorized to represent the party and the second of which was the failure to attach the correct resolution of the National Executive authorizing the President to represent the party in legal proceedings. As a result of these two errors, the Judge President found that the opposing papers were improperly before the court and were invalid and as such, the Tshabangu application was unopposed.
While we disagree with the conclusion that there was no proof before the court that the President was authorized to represent the party in the litigation, given that the correct resolution was before the court by incorporation of the other cases in which it was filed we fully respect the judgement and hence have instructed our lawyers to apply for its recession and for condonation and extentionof time within which to file valid opposing papers.
In this regard, the leadership assures party members that the party are will oppose Tshabangu’s machinations to hijack the party and make it a personal toy to the bitter end in and outside courts. We are fully convinced that even if the Tshabangu application for declaring the party leadership as being unlawfully in office has not been opposed, the court should not have granted it because the High Court is bound by the law enunciated by the Supreme Court particularly in the case of CossamChiangwa and Others v Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe and others SC 67/21 Where the Supreme Court reaffirmed the common law position that:
“Again, the common law principles governing the expiration of fixed tenure of office bearers was settled in the cases of Padayiche v Payadai and Another 1994 (1) SA 662(w) at 677G and Exparte United party club 1930WLD 277 at 281. It is that the tenure of office of elected office bearers is not terminated by the effluxion of time but by subsequent election that are held for new office bearers.”
We believe that the law of the country is clear. The term of office of the current leadership will expire at congress which is to be held within the next few months, when a new leadership of the party will be elected. This is the law of the country by which the High Court is bound.
In these circumstances, we are duty bound to seek rescission of the High Court judgement because it is substantively contrary to the settled law of the country.
We advise our members that the judgement has nothing to do with Justice Chitapi judgement which remains extant and bars Tshabangu from recalling any CCC Members of Parliament and Councillors.
Tshabangu will still have to face his day in Court and take a witness stand to answer questions as to how and when he became the SG of the CCC.
Accordingly, our Members of Parliament should remain focused on amplifying our voices in Parliament in the fight against corruption and poverty without being distracted by the machinations of charlatans.
The party among the people should focus on mobilizing people in the communities in preparation for congress to be held within the next few months.
For and on behalf of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)
Gabonese football star Aaron Boupendza has tragically passed away at the age of 28 after reportedly falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, where he was currently based while playing for Zhejiang FC.
The Gabonese Football Federation confirmed the devastating news in a statement posted on social media platform X, saying: “The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China. Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us as a great striker who made his mark at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.”
Boupendza was a key figure in Gabon’s national team setup and rose to continental prominence during his standout performances at the Africa Cup of Nations. His club career took him across multiple continents, where he impressed with his goal-scoring abilities and versatility.
He began his professional journey at Bordeaux in France before making a major impact at Turkish side Hatayspor, where he emerged as the Super Lig’s top scorer in the 2020–21 season. His prolific form earned him moves across the Middle East, including spells with Al-Arabi in Qatar—where he won the Qatar FA Cup—and Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League.
Boupendza later featured in the United States for FC Cincinnati and then in Romania for Rapid Bucharest before moving to China to join Zhejiang FC in January 2025.
The news of his untimely death has sent shockwaves across the football community, with tributes pouring in from fans, former clubs, and teammates who remembered him not only as a gifted striker but also as a passionate and dedicated professional.
Boupendza’s death marks a tragic loss for both Gabonese football and the global sports fraternity.
By A Correspondent
Zanu PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu has acknowledged growing tensions and discontent within the ruling party, calling for renewed unity and discipline among its members.
Speaking during the Zanu PF Policy and Coordinating meeting held at the party headquarters in Harare on Monday, Mpofu emphasized the importance of cohesion ahead of Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day celebrations scheduled to take place in Gokwe Nembudziya this week.
In his address, Mpofu urged party members to remain committed to the ideals of peace and stability: “Let us cherish the peace and tranquility we enjoy as a country. We must work together to preserve it, especially as we prepare to commemorate our independence.”
While congratulating Tsitsi Tawomhera and Trinity Madzinga for their recent victories in the Glen View South by-election and Rushinga’s Ward 19, respectively, Mpofu also hinted at internal strife brewing within Zanu PF.
Party insiders revealed that the Secretary General expressed concern over increasing divisions and infighting, warning that such cracks could weaken the party from within.
“We need to remain vigilant, disciplined, and united,” Mpofu reportedly said. “Let us not allow distractions or internal differences to derail the progress we have made.”
His remarks, though carefully worded, were seen by many within the party as a rare public admission of the challenges currently facing the Zanu PF leadership.
USD 90 Million for a Muddy Footpath? Zimbabwe’s “Trabablas Interchange” is a National Embarrassment
Next month, Zimbabweans are expected to start using the so-called “Trabablas Interchange”—a project hyped for years as a flagship of progress, a modern marvel poised to transform Harare’s traffic landscape. What has been delivered, however, is a deeply underwhelming mess: a USD 90 million pile of red earth, half-baked curves, and what appears to be a glorified footpath draped over bare embankments.
The latest photos from the construction site, proudly shared by “Road Watch Zimbabwe,” do not inspire national pride—they provoke justified outrage. A handful of tarred segments snake through mounds of exposed soil, flanked by scattered workers and construction vehicles. There’s no coherent structure in sight, no sign of the multilayered, efficient traffic artery that was promised. The illusion of progress is created with drone angles and Photoshop-ready lighting, but the reality on the ground is crude, unsealed, and nowhere near operational standard.
Where Did the Money Go?
Let’s be clear: USD 90 million is no small sum. It’s enough to construct several fully functional interchanges in countries with honest procurement practices and competent project management. Instead, Zimbabwe has ended up with something that, at best, resembles a Google Earth sketch of what a road might become. This begs the urgent question: where did the money go?
There’s no plausible justification for this cost overrun unless one includes the typical ingredients of Zimbabwean statecraft—corruption, cronyism, and cover-ups. The opacity of the tender process, the absence of an independently audited breakdown of costs, and the usual chorus of official spin all point to the same pattern we’ve seen time and again: infrastructure as a conduit for looting.
“Trabablas Downloading”—But Who’s Paying?
The galling part is that officials and online propagandists have the audacity to brand this debacle with pop-culture flair—“Trabablas downloading,” they say, as if the public should laugh off the waste. What’s really downloading is another generational debt burden for the youth of this country, another chance for elites to siphon public funds while ordinary Zimbabweans dodge potholes and walk long distances due to a broken public transport system.
This interchange, in its current state, is not an achievement. It is a monument to mediocrity. A tragic reminder that in Zimbabwe, the bar is set so low that a road with visible mud and missing safety features can be celebrated as a national milestone.
We Deserve Better
The people of Zimbabwe are not asking for miracles—they are asking for accountability. If USD 90 million was truly spent, there should be roads fit for purpose, lanes ready for traffic, signage installed, and drainage secured. What we see instead is something that looks more like a road-making rehearsal than a finished interchange.
Until the government begins to treat infrastructure with the seriousness it deserves—through transparency, competence, and zero tolerance for corruption—“Trabablas” will remain an apt metaphor. A project caught in perpetual buffering mode, downloading forever, but never truly delivered.
Outrage is growing across South Africa and Zimbabwe as the man accused of killing Zimbabwean national Emmanuel Mahamba continues to evade arrest—nearly two weeks after the brutal incident. Despite chilling video evidence and the impounding of the suspect’s vehicle, he remains at large and is reportedly continuing his business operations while communicating freely via WhatsApp.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | JOHANNESBURG – A peaceful protest is being organised by Zimbabweans in Pretoria to demand justice for Emmanuel Mahamba, a 29-year-old who was tragically run over multiple times in Sandton on April 5. The protest comes amid mounting frustration over what many are calling a lack of urgency from the South African Police Service.
The protest was confirmed by activist and Greathope Funeral Director Moreboys Munetsi during a Facebook LIVE broadcast on April 17. Munetsi stated that the community had followed the legal process to secure permission for the demonstration.
“As a community, we don’t want to be violent,” Munetsi said. “We went to the police and were given permission for a demonstration. We want to do things legally. There is already interaction between the Zimbabwean and Ugandan communities. But justice must be served.”
Mahamba’s death, captured in a disturbing viral video, shows him being run over while seated on the ground. The vehicle used, a Ford Ranger, has since been impounded, but the suspect remains unaccounted for.
Contrary to early reports, Munetsi clarified that the suspect is a Ghanaian national, not Ugandan, and is the partner of a Zimbabwean woman named Ntombi, who was briefly in a relationship with Mahamba. The couple share three children, the youngest being only four months old.
“The affair between Ntombi and Emmanuel began in January. At the time, her youngest child with the Ghanaian suspect was only one month old,” said Munetsi. “After the murder, Ntombi and the man fled their home, and the children were sent to Zimbabwe.”
Munetsi, who is working closely with both the Mahamba family and police, revealed that Ntombi reached out to him to clear her name and share her side of the story.
“She came to me asking to speak. She said she needed to tell the truth because people were attacking her,” he said. “She confirmed the relationship with Emmanuel, but she has also tried to convince the suspect to hand himself in.”
Despite efforts to track him, the suspect continues to evade authorities. Munetsi claims the man’s phone remains active and that he is still running his business, making financial transactions that could help pinpoint his location.
“This suspect is a businessman processing transactions right now. Why can’t he be tracked through his phone or bank records?” Munetsi asked. “I asked the investigating officer why Section 205 of the law hasn’t been used to compel mobile and financial service providers to assist in locating him.”
Frustration has grown over how law enforcement has managed the case. The Mahamba family was reportedly given the wrong case number at one point, leading to suspicions of deliberate obstruction.
“The family is calm, not violent. But they’re hurt. They feel ignored,” said Munetsi. “This case is now viral. It is damaging the image of the Sandton Police Station. Something must be done.”
Munetsi also confirmed that he met with the Sandton detective team and provided them with voice recordings of the suspect speaking with associates. He criticized the slow pace of the investigation and warned that public anger could escalate if authorities continue to delay action.
The approved protest, led by Zimbabwean nationals and supported by South African citizens and diaspora groups, aims to pressure police into acting decisively. Organizers are calling for transparency in the investigation and protection for key witnesses like Ntombi.
“We don’t want violence. But the pain people are feeling is real,” said Munetsi. “The only way to ease that pain is through accountability. If the suspect is innocent, he should come forward and apply for bail. But he cannot remain free while a family is grieving and a community is in shock.”
An anonymous tipster has reportedly shared the suspect’s possible location with Munetsi’s team. As the search continues, pressure is mounting for justice to be served in the name of Emmanuel Mahamba.
Story developing…
Police Commissioner Confirms First Suspect in Emmanuel Mahamba Murder Was Released Despite Gruesome Evidence
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye |
JOHANNESBURG – In a development that is set to intensify public outrage, Gauteng Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Tommy Mthombeni has confirmed that police detained and released a suspect in connection with the brutal murder of Zimbabwean national Emmanuel Mahamba, despite what many describe as “overwhelming evidence” of a premeditated, violent killing.
In a televised interview with local media, Mthombeni acknowledged that investigators used advanced surveillance technology to track down the Ford Ranger involved in the April 5 incident in Rivonia, Sandton. The same vehicle was seen in widely circulated video footage crushing Mahamba repeatedly in what has been described as one of the most shocking acts of violence caught on camera this year.
“We will not say exactly what technology [was used], but we managed to track down the vehicle,” said Commissioner Mthombeni. “The vehicle was found being driven by one of the persons, and then we put that particular person for questioning. But unfortunately, it is not the suspect we are looking for.”
The Commissioner confirmed the vehicle has since been impounded and stored as evidence in the SAP13 exhibit register. He added that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are “behind the heels” of the main suspect, whom he linked to a “love affair” at the center of the case.
“It is a horrific incident indeed… based on some of the witnesses, when they reflect, they indicate this is in relation to a love affair,” he said.
The admission that a suspect was apprehended and later released, despite the vehicle being tied directly to the crime scene, has sparked a wave of criticism online and renewed calls for accountability and urgency in the investigation.
Public Demands Answers
Mahamba’s murder, which unfolded in broad daylight, has provoked widespread outrage in both South Africa and Zimbabwe. The man accused of driving the vehicle—a Ghanaian national and romantic partner of Ntombi, a Zimbabwean woman also involved with Mahamba—is still on the run and, according to reports, continues to operate a business and communicate via phone.
Activist and legal advocate Moreboys Munetsi, who has been working closely with the victim’s family, has revealed that community protests have now been approved in Pretoria, as Zimbabwean nationals demand the suspect’s immediate arrest and express concern over alleged police inertia.
“People are angry, and the delay is dangerous,” Munetsi said in a recent Facebook LIVE session. “The suspect’s phone is on, his business is operating, and yet there’s no arrest. We don’t want violence, but justice must be seen to be done.”
Growing Pressure on SAPS
Calls are now mounting for the SAPS to explain why Section 205 of the Criminal Procedure Act has not been invoked to track the suspect’s location through mobile and financial data. Munetsi says he has personally asked investigating officers why the suspect’s digital footprint—still active—is not being used to secure a warrant or bring him into custody.
With mounting pressure from civil society, legal experts, and the grieving family, the police will face renewed scrutiny in the coming days. Commissioner Mthombeni has promised progress, but public trust appears to be slipping as the days pass with no arrest in what is clearly a high-profile, high-stakes case.
Story developing.
Outrage is growing across South Africa and Zimbabwe as the man accused of killing Zimbabwean national Emmanuel Mahamba continues to evade arrest—nearly two weeks after the brutal incident. Despite chilling video evidence and the impounding of the suspect’s vehicle, he remains at large and is reportedly continuing his business operations while communicating freely via WhatsApp.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | JOHANNESBURG – A peaceful protest is being organised by Zimbabweans in Pretoria to demand justice for Emmanuel Mahamba, a 29-year-old who was tragically run over multiple times in Sandton on April 5. The protest comes amid mounting frustration over what many are calling a lack of urgency from the South African Police Service.
The protest was confirmed by activist and Greathope Funeral Director Moreboys Munetsi during a Facebook LIVE broadcast on April 17. Munetsi stated that the community had followed the legal process to secure permission for the demonstration.
“As a community, we don’t want to be violent,” Munetsi said. “We went to the police and were given permission for a demonstration. We want to do things legally. There is already interaction between the Zimbabwean and Ugandan communities. But justice must be served.”
Mahamba’s death, captured in a disturbing viral video, shows him being run over while seated on the ground. The vehicle used, a Ford Ranger, has since been impounded, but the suspect remains unaccounted for.
Contrary to early reports, Munetsi clarified that the suspect is a Ghanaian national, not Ugandan, and is the partner of a Zimbabwean woman named Ntombi, who was briefly in a relationship with Mahamba. The couple share three children, the youngest being only four months old.
“The affair between Ntombi and Emmanuel began in January. At the time, her youngest child with the Ghanaian suspect was only one month old,” said Munetsi. “After the murder, Ntombi and the man fled their home, and the children were sent to Zimbabwe.”
Munetsi, who is working closely with both the Mahamba family and police, revealed that Ntombi reached out to him to clear her name and share her side of the story.
“She came to me asking to speak. She said she needed to tell the truth because people were attacking her,” he said. “She confirmed the relationship with Emmanuel, but she has also tried to convince the suspect to hand himself in.”
Despite efforts to track him, the suspect continues to evade authorities. Munetsi claims the man’s phone remains active and that he is still running his business, making financial transactions that could help pinpoint his location.
“This suspect is a businessman processing transactions right now. Why can’t he be tracked through his phone or bank records?” Munetsi asked. “I asked the investigating officer why Section 205 of the law hasn’t been used to compel mobile and financial service providers to assist in locating him.”
Frustration has grown over how law enforcement has managed the case. The Mahamba family was reportedly given the wrong case number at one point, leading to suspicions of deliberate obstruction.
“The family is calm, not violent. But they’re hurt. They feel ignored,” said Munetsi. “This case is now viral. It is damaging the image of the Sandton Police Station. Something must be done.”
Munetsi also confirmed that he met with the Sandton detective team and provided them with voice recordings of the suspect speaking with associates. He criticized the slow pace of the investigation and warned that public anger could escalate if authorities continue to delay action.
The approved protest, led by Zimbabwean nationals and supported by South African citizens and diaspora groups, aims to pressure police into acting decisively. Organizers are calling for transparency in the investigation and protection for key witnesses like Ntombi.
“We don’t want violence. But the pain people are feeling is real,” said Munetsi. “The only way to ease that pain is through accountability. If the suspect is innocent, he should come forward and apply for bail. But he cannot remain free while a family is grieving and a community is in shock.”
An anonymous tipster has reportedly shared the suspect’s possible location with Munetsi’s team. As the search continues, pressure is mounting for justice to be served in the name of Emmanuel Mahamba.
Story developing…
Thursday Afternoon Scene at Tatenda Pinjisi’s Funeral Sparks Mixed Reactions
Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe – April 17, 2025
A deeply emotional scene unfolded under the shade of a mango tree on Thursday afternoon, as mourners gathered to bid farewell to the late Sungura musician Tatenda Pinjisi. Among them was Pastor Charles Charamba, seen laying hands on the grieving family in what appeared to be a moment of spiritual intercession. Eyes shut, tears flowing, and hands firmly placed on the heads of the bereaved, Charamba was surrounded by other clergy as he led a prayer marked by both solemnity and sorrow.
But the moment—captured in a widely shared photograph—has sparked fierce public debate and emotional questions about symbolism, sincerity, and accountability in Zimbabwe’s moral and political landscape.
“What kind of spirit is Pastor Charamba imparting?” many onlookers have asked. “Is it comfort for the grieving or complicity in the broken system that led us here?”
The grief-stricken scene would ordinarily be a portrait of pastoral compassion, but for many Zimbabweans, it is layered with uncomfortable contradictions. Just weeks ago, Pastor Charamba was one of several public figures gifted luxury vehicles by flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivayo—a man known for lavish donations to select religious and cultural personalities. The same hands now praying over Tatenda’s family, critics note, are the ones that daily touch the opulent car keys, leather interiors, and cash envelopes that symbolize elite privilege in a country where basic healthcare is a luxury.
Tatenda Pinjisi died in agony after a car accident—not from the crash itself, but due to the painful absence of painkillers in a state hospital. As family members watched helplessly, Zimbabwe’s under-resourced public health system failed him. The viral footage of his suffering has ignited a national outcry over the glaring disparity between Zimbabwe’s wealthy elites and the rest of its citizens.
“If even one of those cars had been sold to buy medicine,” one mourner whispered, “Tatenda might still be here,” says Ken Kangarwe.
As Charamba stood before the broken family, offering prayer and solace, some mourners bowed in reverence—while others turned away in disillusionment. The air was thick not just with grief, but with questions: about power, priorities, and performative faith. Can spiritual leaders who benefit from opulence still credibly minister to those crushed by poverty? Can tears truly cleanse the conscience when injustice continues unchecked?
In a nation reckoning with what many call “the price of misplaced devotion,” this image may be remembered not only as a moment of mourning—but as a symbol of the contradictions that haunt the soul of Zimbabwe.
By A Correspondent
Zanu PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu has acknowledged growing tensions and discontent within the ruling party, calling for renewed unity and discipline among its members.
Speaking during the Zanu PF Policy and Coordinating meeting held at the party headquarters in Harare on Monday, Mpofu emphasized the importance of cohesion ahead of Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day celebrations scheduled to take place in Gokwe Nembudziya this week.
In his address, Mpofu urged party members to remain committed to the ideals of peace and stability: “Let us cherish the peace and tranquility we enjoy as a country. We must work together to preserve it, especially as we prepare to commemorate our independence.”
While congratulating Tsitsi Tawomhera and Trinity Madzinga for their recent victories in the Glen View South by-election and Rushinga’s Ward 19, respectively, Mpofu also hinted at internal strife brewing within Zanu PF.
Party insiders revealed that the Secretary General expressed concern over increasing divisions and infighting, warning that such cracks could weaken the party from within.
“We need to remain vigilant, disciplined, and united,” Mpofu reportedly said. “Let us not allow distractions or internal differences to derail the progress we have made.”
His remarks, though carefully worded, were seen by many within the party as a rare public admission of the challenges currently facing the Zanu PF leadership.
Gokwe, Zimbabwe – Thursday, April 17, 2025
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has arrived in Gokwe Nembudzia, Midlands Province, aboard a Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma — the same model of helicopter that crashed in Masvingo just seven months ago, raising new concerns over the safety of Zimbabwe’s presidential air transport.
Mnangagwa, accompanied by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, touched down on Thursday morning to attend a Children’s Party celebration hosted at Nyamuroro High School. The event was described as a joyful occasion — but aviation watchers and political analysts were quick to note the chilling irony behind the mode of transport used to ferry the First Family.
In September 2024, a Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma helicopter catastrophically crashed moments after lifting off from Masvingo Airport. The aircraft was reportedly en route to pick up the President from Bikita. According to aviation insiders, mechanical failure was suspected, though no official report has been released.
A History Marked by Tragedy
The Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma, widely used across civilian and military sectors, is no stranger to controversy. Its checkered past includes several fatal accidents globally:
Why This Aircraft?
Observers are questioning the wisdom behind deploying a helicopter with such a controversial history for transporting the highest office bearer in the country.
“This is a helicopter model with well-documented mechanical and design flaws,” said an aviation safety consultant based in Harare. “Using it again so soon after the September crash is not just questionable — it’s risky. The President’s life should not be entrusted to a platform that aviation authorities across the world have flagged for repeated safety failures,” said aviation commentator, Caster Mangwa.
Images from Gokwe show President Mnangagwa stepping out of the aircraft and being greeted by senior government officials, some visibly apprehensive. The very visible blue-and-white livery matches that of the Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma class used in last year’s crash.
Lack of Transparency
Despite the high-profile nature of the September 2024 incident, the Zimbabwean government has yet to publicly release a full incident report, leaving many to speculate whether adequate safety reviews were conducted before returning the model to active duty.
With tensions simmering over security protocol and asset procurement transparency, today’s flight into Gokwe has reignited the debate about risk management and executive transport standards in Zimbabwe.
This is a developing story.
By A Correspondent
Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has called on Zimbabweans to rally behind the newly introduced ZiG currency, describing it as a cornerstone of the country’s economic independence and sovereignty.
Quoted by The Daily News, Mutsvangwa praised the Second Republic’s commitment to leveraging Zimbabwe’s natural resources to drive local development and create sustainable income.
He said the introduction of the ZiG currency aligns with the broader goal of national economic empowerment.
“The Chimurenga–Impi Yomvukelo was all about the quest for economic regeneration of our nation,” Mutsvangwa said. “As war veterans, we believe President Emmerson Mnangagwa is spot on in his push for economic revival and growth.”
He highlighted that the President’s “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra is attracting significant investment, particularly in the energy sector. “The President’s mantra is driving multiple dollar investment in the Hwange Colliery fields to restore its prominence as the premier national energy base. Today we pride ourselves in the ability of developing our country using our resources through indigenous hands,” he added.
Mutsvangwa also encouraged young people to understand and value the nation’s journey to independence, emphasizing the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
“I urge the youth who are to enjoy the independence in years to cherish the sacrifice made by the veterans of the liberation struggle,” he said. “It was not walking in the park that came on a silver plate but blood and lives which were lost in the struggle that brought the independence we are in today.”
He further called on political leaders to honour the spirit of the liberation struggle in shaping the country’s direction. “We would urge the political landscape to be reflective of the nature in which Zimbabwe managed to bring about independence which we celebrate today,” Mutsvangwa said.
On the newly launched ZiG currency, Mutsvangwa stressed that adopting a national currency is essential for full sovereignty and economic control.
“It is imperative that there is an own currency within the confines of the nation state. This currency is an expression of collective economic activity amongst the national citizenry,” he said.
He warned against relying on foreign monetary systems, calling it “a travesty of sovereignty to farm out the issuing of currency to foreign or alien jurisdiction(s).”
“In embracing ZiG, Zimbabweans are not just accepting a new form of currency,” he added, “but they are reiterating their commitment to the ideals of independence and the on-going quest for a prosperous and self-sufficient nation.”
Police Ban Teachers’ Peace March Ahead of ANTUSA Games Following Geza’s Solidarity Message
Bulawayo – 17 April 2025
Zimbabwe Republic Police have blocked a peaceful march planned by teachers to mark the official opening of the upcoming ANTUSA Games in Bulawayo, citing non-compliance with the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA). The decision, communicated in a letter dated 15 April 2025, comes just weeks after anti-corruption activist Blessed Geza publicly expressed solidarity with Zimbabwean educators in a March social media statement.
The Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) had notified authorities of its intention to hold a ceremonial procession from Fazak Shopping Centre to Hillside Teachers College on 18 April — a tradition observed across SADC nations hosting the regional games. However, police rejected the request, saying it did not meet MOPA requirements for public gatherings, although they confirmed the games themselves could proceed.
Responding to the development, Raymond Majongwe, PTUZ Secretary General, expressed disbelief and frustration at the police response.
“This was just an innocent march,” he said in a statement posted to social media. “We do it in every country that hosts these games in the SADC region. I just can’t believe this.”
The rejection has sparked criticism from civil society observers who see the move as emblematic of increasing state repression against peaceful assembly — especially within sectors viewed as aligned with dissenting or independent voices. Although Blessed Geza did not visit teachers in person, his social media message in March calling for better treatment of educators and affirming their importance to national integrity struck a chord with teacher unions and may have amplified state sensitivity to public displays of solidarity.
Legal experts warn the use of MOPA in such contexts erodes constitutional freedoms.
“This was a cultural, not political event,” said one Bulawayo-based lawyer. “Blocking it on procedural grounds seems like an excuse to avoid even symbolic gatherings that remind the public of solidarity and struggle.”
As the games are set to begin on 18 April, the absence of the traditional march has cast a shadow over what is typically a festive, unifying event for educators across the region. For many, it also raises urgent questions about the government’s growing intolerance of peaceful civic expression — even in the context of sport.
Chiwenga’s Gokwe Visit Sparks Speculation: Has the General Joined Mnangagwa’s 2030 Campaign Train?
Gokwe – Thursday, 17 April 2025
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga made a high-profile appearance in Gokwe on Thursday, where his facial expressions and body language during a series of handshakes and engagements with top ZANU PF officials have set off a storm of speculation over his political alignment ahead of the 2030 elections.
Captured in a sequence of staged, tightly choreographed moments, Chiwenga — dressed in a sharp navy-blue suit and dark glasses — was seen greeting senior ZANU PF figures with a notable shift in demeanor. His relaxed smiles, firm handshakes, and engaging eye contact were quickly interpreted by party loyalists as a signal that the former military commander has finally thrown his weight behind President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s controversial “2030 and Beyond” campaign.
In one image, Chiwenga clasps hands with a provincial ZANU PF official while leaning in with what appears to be a conciliatory tone. In another, he exchanges warm words with another heavyweight in a gold-patterned shirt, both men grinning under the open sky — a sharp contrast to the frosty interactions that have characterized previous public appearances between rival factions in the party.
One image that drew particular attention shows Chiwenga in deep conversation with a key Mnangagwa ally, both men nodding intently, flanked by uniformed officials and party security. The imagery — with a presidential helicopter in the background — seemed crafted for maximum symbolic value: power, unity, and a shared future.
ZANU PF’s propaganda machinery has wasted no time circulating the images across its internal WhatsApp groups and pro-government social media platforms, with captions praising the “unshakable unity of the revolutionary party” and declaring that Chiwenga has “joined the locomotive of vision 2030.”
However, critics and insiders remain cautious. Some point out that Chiwenga’s expressions, though outwardly composed, could reflect political pragmatism rather than genuine allegiance. “He’s a soldier,” said one analyst. “He knows when to play the part. But whether this means he’s truly in support of Mnangagwa running in 2030 is another matter entirely.”
Nonetheless, the images from Gokwe mark a potentially important public pivot. Whether this is a calculated truce, a power play, or a quiet surrender to political momentum remains to be seen — but for now, ZANU PF is reading the pictures as a sign that the General is back in formation.
Anger is boiling over in South Africa and Zimbabwe as the man accused of brutally killing Zimbabwean national Emmanuel Mahamba remains at large—and astonishingly, continues running his business as if nothing ever happened. While Emmanuel’s grieving family buries their son, the suspect is reportedly conducting financial transactions, staying in contact via WhatsApp, and evading arrest with ease. The lack of decisive action by authorities has ignited outrage, prompting the Zimbabwean community in Pretoria to organise a major protest demanding justice and accountability.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | JOHANNESBURG – A major protest is now being planned in South Africa over the brutal murder of Zimbabwean national Emmanuel Mahamba, as pressure mounts on authorities to arrest the suspect, who remains on the run nearly two weeks after the fatal incident.
The development was confirmed by prominent activist and Greathope Funeral Director Moreboys Munetsi, who revealed in a Facebook LIVE video on April 17 that a demonstration has been organized by Zimbabwean community members in Pretoria in response to what they describe as “delays and silence” in the police investigation.
“As a community, we don’t want to be violent,” Munetsi said. “We went to the police and were given permission for a demonstration. We want to do things legally. We can apply for permission. There is already interaction between the Zimbabwean and Ugandan communities. But justice must be served.”
A Case That Shocked the Nation
Emmanuel Mahamba was run over multiple times by a Ford Ranger on April 5 in Rivonia, Sandton. The chilling video, which has gone viral, shows the 29-year-old sitting on the ground when he is deliberately struck and killed. The car, now confirmed to be in police custody, has been impounded as evidence—but the suspect remains at large.
Contrary to initial reports, Munetsi clarified that the alleged killer is not Ugandan, but a Ghanaian national, and the partner of Ntombi, a Zimbabwean woman who had been in a brief relationship with Mahamba. The Ghanaian man and Ntombi share three children, the youngest of whom is just four months old.
“The affair between Ntombi and Emmanuel began in January. At the time, her youngest child with the Ghanaian suspect was only one month old,” Munetsi explained. “After the murder, Ntombi and the man fled their home, and the children were sent to Zimbabwe.”
A Call for Truth and Justice
Munetsi also confirmed he is working closely with the police and Emmanuel’s family, assisting with both legal support and community mobilisation. In the wake of the incident, Ntombi herself requested to speak publicly in a live interview with Munetsi, saying she was being falsely branded a prostitute and wanted to set the record straight.
“She came to me asking to speak. She said she needed to tell the truth because people were attacking her,” Munetsi said. “She confirmed the relationship with Emmanuel, but she has also tried to convince the suspect to hand himself in.”
Despite efforts to contact him, the suspect remains in hiding. However, Munetsi disclosed that the suspect’s phone is still active, and he continues to operate his business, suggesting that his location and transactions can be traced.
“This suspect is a businessman processing transactions right now. Why can’t he be tracked through his phone or bank records?” Munetsi asked. “I asked the investigating officer why Section 205 of the law hasn’t been used to compel mobile and financial service providers to assist in locating him.”
Police Accused of Stalling
Frustrations have also grown over how the police have handled communication with the family. At one point, the bereaved family was given an incorrect case number, which they believe was a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice.
“The family is calm, not violent. But they’re hurt. They feel ignored,” said Munetsi. “This case is now viral. It is damaging the image of the Sandton Police Station. Something must be done.”
Munetsi also disclosed that he met the Sandton detective team and shared voice recordings of the suspect speaking with associates. He raised concerns about the lack of urgency and called on the police to act swiftly before public frustration spills into unrest.
Protest as a Turning Point
The peaceful demonstration—approved by police—will be led by Zimbabwean nationals in Pretoria, with support from the South African public and diaspora organizations. Protestors are expected to demand transparency, urgency in the investigation, and assurances of safety for witnesses, including Ntombi.
“We don’t want violence. But the pain people are feeling is real,” said Munetsi. “The only way to ease that pain is through accountability. If the suspect is innocent, he should come forward and apply for bail. But he cannot remain free while a family is grieving and a community is in shock.”
As of today, the suspect’s exact location remains unknown, though an anonymous source has reportedly shared location data with Munetsi’s team. The activist emphasized that justice must prevail for Emmanuel Mahamba and his loved ones.
Story developing.
Chief Mbusi Dakamela has started working on preparations for the 2026 Cultural event and the government of Zimbabwe has promised to support the event.
The first flag is that of Africa’s largest economy Nigeria, and the second is that of Africa’s economic giant in the 1970s, Rhodesia. The flag colours are 100% identical. The economic growths seem too correlated with each nation’s flag design, too much to ignore. The simpler a nation’s design, the greater the creative genius of the single GDP per capita, the individual.
Editorial | Imagine if this was Manyame Airbase, would this dream materialise?
Look at the Japanese flag in the picture below as that country is reported to have invented an innovative fighter jet. If this was Zimbabwe, we would have spent more money painting the Zim flag’s chaotic/psychotic colours than making this 6th Gen jet, and the rest of the money given Wicknell. None of these employees is wearing a scarf.
Japan protects its citizens from anything that messes their mental health that is why they remain unbeatable in technology even after Hiroshima bombings. The fact that they remain the world’s best on manufacturing the likes of bulletin trains, suggests Zim’s only limitation to achieving Chamisa’s bullet-train dream, is a change of the national flag colours, to match China, Russia, Canada, etc. Once that is done, the mental health of the single citizen will be boosted into the creativity, which other countries with simple flag colour designs enjoy, per capita.
Those mocking Chamisa over his bullet train obsession where are you today, and can you see how simple this is?
BY DR. MASIMBA MAVAZA
Identifying current national politicians who are Seventh-day Adventists can be challenging due to the church’s global nature and diverse membership. However, every Christian, regardless of denomination, engages in politics to some extent. The difference lies in visibility: some Adventists have not risen to prominent positions and may harbor jealousy, resorting to a “pull-him-down” mentality. Those who demonize members for engaging in politics are often hiding their own sins, believing that labeling others as sinners absolves them of their shortcomings.
In Zimbabwe, nearly all politicians are practicing Christians, though they belong to different denominations. Approximately one-third of Zimbabwe’s parliament consists of practicing Seventh-day Adventists. Notably, individuals such as Cde Geza, Cde Ziyambi, and Cde Mpofu, the Secretary General of ZANU PF, are Adventists. The Politburo and Central Committee also include a significant number of Adventists. Similarly, the opposition features prominent Adventists like Welshman Ncube, Thabani Mpofu, and several members of parliament and top government officials.
Beyond Zimbabwe, Adventists serve as presidents, ministers, and opposition leaders worldwide. Adventists are practical believers who engage in politics to sanctify it. For example, Doug Clark, a former Republican member of the Utah House of Representatives, identifies as a Seventh-day Adventist. Other Adventists have run for office or held local positions, demonstrating that true Christians enter every aspect of life to shine from the heart.
An American survey of Adventist voters revealed a balanced range of political leanings: 34% identify as Democrats, 30% as Republicans, and 26% as Independents. In Zimbabwe, while Adventists are relatively few in political leadership, their wisdom makes them appear disproportionately influential in political activities. Individual perspectives within the Adventist community may vary widely.
A compilation and analysis of Ellen G. White’s statements on Adventist attitudes toward public, political, and civic affairs reveal no conflict between being a politician and an Adventist. Ellen G. White stated:
The correct application of these statements hinges on the meaning of “political” and “politics.” Webster’s New International Dictionary (Second ed.) defines politics as “the science and art of government” and political as “of or pertaining to polity, or politics, or the conduct of government” or “pertaining to those who make a business . . . of politics, or politicians in their partisan activities.” The Encyclopedia of Social Sciences (vol. 6, p. 225) notes that “politics” often carries negative connotations, implying “scheming and manipulations.”
In which sense did Ellen G. White use these terms? Did she condemn only partisan strife and dishonest manipulations, or did she discourage the orderly exercise of voting and serious study of political science?
Historical Background: Ellen G. White wrote about politics during the latter half of the nineteenth century. Understanding the political climate in the United States at that time clarifies her intent. A leading authority on American religious history observed:
“Lowering of the standards of conduct in both public and private life was one of the unfortunate consequences of the Civil War. . . . The war brought to prominence a class of rough, unscrupulous men . . . who too frequently were permitted to gain leadership in both business and politics. Out of such a general background came an era of wholesale corruption in politics. . . . The use of money in buying elections was but one of the many forms of political corruption.” (Source omitted for brevity.)
“There is no drearier chapter in American political history than that which records the period from the end of reconstruction to the Populist revolt of the early nineties. . . . Never before had American politics been so intellectually bankrupt. . . . Business ran politics, and politics was a branch of business.” (Source omitted for brevity.)
Comments by Early Adventists: During the formative years of the Advent Movement, the United States faced turbulent political currents, particularly around the 1860 election. James White wrote in the Review (August 21, 1860):
“The political excitement of 1860 will probably run as high as it has for many years, and we would warn our brethren not to be drawn into it. We are not prepared to prove from the Bible that it would be wrong for a believer in the third message to go in a manner becoming his profession, and cast his vote. We do not recommend this, neither do we oppose.”
Two years later (Review, August 12, 1862), James White noted that some Adventists had voted: “Those of our people who voted at all at the last Presidential election, to a man voted for Abraham Lincoln.”
At the 1865 General Conference, a resolution on voting stated: “The act of voting when exercised in behalf of justice, humanity, and right, is in itself blameless, and may be at some times highly proper; but . . . the casting of any vote that shall strengthen the cause of such crimes as intemperance, insurrection, and slavery, we regard as highly criminal in the sight of Heaven.” (Review, May 23, 1865.)
Comments by Leading Adventists: In 1936, Pastor Francis McLellan Wilcox, editor of the Review for 33 years, wrote: “Is it proper for [Adventists] to exercise the right of franchise, to go to the polls and cast their votes . . . ? We believe that this is their God-given and undeniable right. . . . Is it right for a Seventh-day Adventist to hold political office? . . . I must believe that this is consistent with Christian faith and practice.” (Review, March 26, 1936.)
Pastor J. Lamar McElhany, General Conference president for 16 years, stated: “The church has never attempted to instruct its members as to how they should vote. . . . Nor has the church placed any ban or censure on its members if they . . . choose to exercise their right to vote.” (Review, October 23, 1952.)
Conclusion: The Adventist attitude toward civic and public affairs emphasizes that the genuine Adventist is primarily a citizen of the heavenly kingdom. The Christian’s chief program for national and international betterment is the spiritual gospel. While passing through this world, the true Adventist seeks to attract others to the heavenly kingdom by translating divine principles into human action, including supporting sensible plans for health, religious freedom, and social stability. Under appropriate conditions, Adventists may vote or refrain from voting, as their judgment dictates, while conducting themselves with rectitude and dignity as ambassadors of Christ.
Changes Made:
By A Correspondent
At least 18 people have been killed and 32 injured due to escalating human-wildlife conflict in Zimbabwe during the first three months of 2025, according to a report by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks).
Speaking on Tuesday, April 15, ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo confirmed that the authority had responded to 579 reported cases of wildlife-related incidents since the beginning of the year.
“Communities are under threat. We’ve seen a worrying rise in both human casualties and livestock losses,” Farawo said.
According to the report, 53 cattle and 85 goats have been killed by wild animals—a significant surge compared to 18 cattle and 21 goats lost during the same period in 2024.
Farawo added that ZimParks had relocated 129 wild animals back into protected areas while 158 were put down due to safety concerns.
“We are stepping up our community outreach efforts. People living near protected areas must be aware of the risks and learn how to respond to wildlife encounters,” he said.
The regions hardest hit include Binga, Hwange, Kariba, Chiredzi, Hurungwe, Nyaminyami, and Mbire.
ZimParks reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife, stating that teams are on the ground educating residents on animal behavior and preventative strategies.
