Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) chairman Gerald Mlotshwa was sheduled to appear before the Parliamentary Committee this morning and answer questions on the state of football in the country but he did not show up.
The commission suspended the Felton Kamambo-led Zifa board for incompetence last November, a situation which has has left Zimbabwean football at risk of a FIFA ban for government interference in the running of the game.
Mlotshwa, as well as an official from the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Recreation, were expected to appear before the committee but only the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Thoko Chitepo showed up.
Thoko told the committee that Mlotshwa is currently in Bulawayo.
In the absence of Kirsty Coventry, who is in China, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe is the acting Minister of Sports.- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
Former Warriors coach Rahman Gumbo has been linked with coaching Botswana national team.
According to BW Football Magazine, the Zimbabwean gaffer has become a favourite to take over the reins permanently following the resignation of Adel Amrouche.
Teenage Mpote has been holding forth on an interim basis.
The publication adds that the Botswana Football Association is yet to contact Gumbo directly about the position.
The coach, however, has resolved to say nothing publicly until the BFA approaches him formally.
Gumbo is currently the head coach of Sua Flamingoes in the top-flight league.- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
A picture used by Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba of CCC party women relieving themselves is fake, ZimEye can reveal.
The picture has women dressed in yellow t shirts using an open space as their toilet.
Mr Charamba used the picture during debates on Monday afternoon saying the women belong to Nelson Chamisa’s party.
But a pixel audit on the picture shows that it was in circulation several months before the CCC party ever existed. One of its most authoritative versions dated 11 Nov 2021 has South Africa’s ANC party name inscribed thereon, meaning the photograph is likely South African.
Tinashe Sambiri| Police on Sunday detained division one side FC Wangu Mazodze Football players and supporters as they were travelling to Ruwa for a fixture.
Police claimed the players and supporters were travelling to Harare to attend President Nelson Chamisa’s rally at Zimbabwe Grounds.
Team officials told reporters on Sunday their trip had nothing to do with politics.
See report below:
Wed 23 February 2022
FC Wangu Mazodze furastrated by police roadblocks on their way to Ruwa
BY TIMOTH MUSWERE Soccer Fan
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE HITS SOCCER FRATENITY
Masvingo’s local team of the moment FC Wangu Mazodze was on Sunday furastrated by the ZRP roadblocks on their way to Ruwa for a football game.
The first division soccer club had hired 3 Zupco buses to ferry its suppoters from Chiredzi,Renco,Ngundu and Masvingo.
The convoy also included 3 other private cars for officials. The marvelous and well organized trip was more of premier league team!! Thanks to Mr Wangu Mazodze for reviving the soccer sporting in Masvingo.
The club has become the darling of the province within a short period of time in first division.
It has brought about hope in Masvingo that we might soon be watching primier league in Masvingo Mucheke Stadium.
The fleet departed Masvingo around 8am only to arrive in Ruwa around past 3pm. The team was caught in the crossfire as the police were on a mission to block CCC yellow party members to go to their star rally in Highfield.
At every roadblock FC Wangu Mazodze was delayed for about 30minutes. It was worse at Chivhu where the team suppoters were delayed for nearly two hours. Clad in nice club regalia of blue red and white one could simply see that the 12th player ‘suppoters’ were indeed going for a game and not to a political rally.
The incident was very unfortunate and unfair if political battles would affect innocent soccer loving communities. The suppoters caught attention of the passers by as they bursted out in song and dance at the road block singing ‘ndezvebhora chete haiwa iwa ndezvebhora’.It took upon talks and discussions with the top cop in Chivhu to be released. Upon being freed to pass through the suppoters brough Harare to a standstill with song and waving nicely coloured flags.
One could be forced to drop down tears as they sang an emotional song on which the suppotters articulated the stumbling blocks they had faced along the way. They sang ‘…kunonoka chete ndanga ndichiuya…mapurisa chete anga achinetsa…’
The players were already in the pitch and demoralised. They played very well but suffered a defeat through a late goal from Ruwa. The flambouyants and well organised logistics attracted the Harare soccer fans who turned up their support to Fc Wangu Mazodze. The terraces had been painted red blue and white as local soccer fans were also now dressed in Wangu Mazodze gear.
The police clearance for the CCC rally had restricted bussing of supporters hence the crossfire. However the selective application of the law remains a question
Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens Coalition For Change vice chairperson Hon Job Sikhala has declared that Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Zanu PF party will be “buried” in the coming by-elections.
Sikhala affectionately known as Wiwa declared: “ Be reassured ZANU PF will be heavily defeated on the 26th of March 2022, and in 2023 as well.
The defeat will be so heavy.”
Hon Sikhala also described one Mabhatiri as a true soldier of the people’s struggle.
“My Yellow Sunday Rally man of the day.
His name is Mabhatiri. He cycled all the way from Seke to Zimbabwe Grounds on his bicycle.
The man has been a fighter for democracy for years.
Lets give him likes for his display of commitment.
Get vaccinated as soon as it’s your turn and follow local guidance on vaccination. Keep physical distance of at least 1 metre from others, even if they don’t appear to be sick. Avoid crowds and close contact.
Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings.
Clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately and clean hands regularly. If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, self-isolate until you recover.
Wear a mask properly To properly wear your mask:
Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth and chin. Clean your hands before you put your mask on, before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time. When you take off your mask, store it in a clean plastic bag, and every day either wash it if it’s a fabric mask or dispose of it in a trash bin if it’s a medical mask.
Don’t use masks with valves.
More about masks:
When and how to wear masks Questions and answers about children and masks Guidance for decision makers and health workers.
Make your environment safer The risks of getting COVID-19 are higher in crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected people spend long periods of time together in close proximity.
Outbreaks have been reported in places where people have gather, often in crowded indoor settings and where they talk loudly, shout, breathe heavily or sing such as restaurants, choir practices, fitness classes, nightclubs, offices and places of worship.
To make your environment as safe as possible:
Avoid the 3Cs: spaces that are closed, crowded or involve close contact. Meet people outside. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, particularly if indoor spaces are small and without outdoor air coming in.
If you can’t avoid crowded or indoor settings, take these precautions: Open a window to increase the amount of natural ventilation when indoors.
Source: World Health Organization Inserted by Zimbabwe Online Health Centre
Tinashe Sambiri|Zanu PF chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has threatened the opposition with the gun.
The Zanu PF official stunned all and sundry after claiming her party will not concede defeat in the coming polls.
Muchinguri- Kashiri further claimed that the pen cannot change the current political scenario.
The Zanu PF chairperson accused the opposition of calling for sanctions on Harare.
Analysts Muchinguri-Kashiri’s utterances indicate Zanu PF has been shaken by President Nelson Chamisa’s rally.
She wrote on Twitter: “Wapwere weZimbabwe wango ziwa the party to vote for. Zimbabwe yaka uya ngehondo saka haizo endaba ngeball point pen!!
The regime change agenda will not be tolerated. This is a threat to our sovereignty. Western sponsored imperialist backed CCC will never rule this country. Never!
Tinashe Sambiri| Police on Sunday detained division one side FC Wangu Mazodze Football players and supporters as they were travelling to Ruwa for a fixture.
Police claimed the players and supporters were travelling to Harare to attend President Nelson Chamisa’s rally at Zimbabwe Grounds.
Team officials told reporters on Sunday their trip had nothing to do with politics.
See report below:
Wed 23 February 2022
FC Wangu Mazodze furastrated by police roadblocks on their way to Ruwa
BY TIMOTH MUSWERE Soccer Fan
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE HITS SOCCER FRATENITY
Masvingo’s local team of the moment FC Wangu Mazodze was on Sunday furastrated by the ZRP roadblocks on their way to Ruwa for a football game.
The first division soccer club had hired 3 Zupco buses to ferry its suppoters from Chiredzi,Renco,Ngundu and Masvingo.
The convoy also included 3 other private cars for officials. The marvelous and well organized trip was more of premier league team!! Thanks to Mr Wangu Mazodze for reviving the soccer sporting in Masvingo.
The club has become the darling of the province within a short period of time in first division.
It has brought about hope in Masvingo that we might soon be watching primier league in Masvingo Mucheke Stadium.
The fleet departed Masvingo around 8am only to arrive in Ruwa around past 3pm. The team was caught in the crossfire as the police were on a mission to block CCC yellow party members to go to their star rally in Highfield.
At every roadblock FC Wangu Mazodze was delayed for about 30minutes. It was worse at Chivhu where the team suppoters were delayed for nearly two hours. Clad in nice club regalia of blue red and white one could simply see that the 12th player ‘suppoters’ were indeed going for a game and not to a political rally.
The incident was very unfortunate and unfair if political battles would affect innocent soccer loving communities. The suppoters caught attention of the passers by as they bursted out in song and dance at the road block singing ‘ndezvebhora chete haiwa iwa ndezvebhora’.It took upon talks and discussions with the top cop in Chivhu to be released. Upon being freed to pass through the suppoters brough Harare to a standstill with song and waving nicely coloured flags.
One could be forced to drop down tears as they sang an emotional song on which the suppotters articulated the stumbling blocks they had faced along the way. They sang ‘…kunonoka chete ndanga ndichiuya…mapurisa chete anga achinetsa…’
The players were already in the pitch and demoralised. They played very well but suffered a defeat through a late goal from Ruwa. The flambouyants and well organised logistics attracted the Harare soccer fans who turned up their support to Fc Wangu Mazodze. The terraces had been painted red blue and white as local soccer fans were also now dressed in Wangu Mazodze gear.
The police clearance for the CCC rally had restricted bussing of supporters hence the crossfire. However the selective application of the law remains a question
ZEC TREADING ON LOOSE GROUND AND FAULTY LINES: VETERANS ACTIVISTS ASSOCIATION (VAA)
18-02-2022
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission is treading on loose ground by tampering with the National Voters Roll in a frantic bid to rig elections and perpetuate the Citizens’ suffering.
ZEC must not test a “flooded river with its bare foot” and neither must it try to jump across a river whose width it does not know.
The shambolic process or rather mutilation of the voters roll by ZEC is a great concern and a threat to the legitimacy, free fairness and credibility of future electoral processes.
The discrepancies noted are clearly intentional, systematic and a well orchestrated plan to disenfranchise thousands if not millions of voters in a clear and shameful act of grand electoral thuggery and thievery.
It is not a secret that ZEC is championing a shambolic voter registration and entry process. The whole voters’ roll is erroneous and a product of a military operation by securocrats seconded as ZEC Secretariat, and whose only resolve is to subvert the Citizens’ will at all cost.
With the manipulation of the voters’ roll, transferring of voters, obliteration of voters, unilaterally and illegally reconfiguring ward boundaries outside delimitation, the script for rigging is slowly but surely being written.
As Citizens, we demand to know who or what capacitated ZEC to make illegal, unconstitutional, unilateral changes and obliterations to the National voters roll without consulting the stakeholders as required by law.
Secondly, we demand to know why these changes were made to coincide with the By-elections?
Furthermore, we demand to know how these engineered “mistakes” by ZEC will be rectified in time for the affected not to be disenfranchised.
Thirdly,we demand to know what happened to all those who registered in 2021 considering ZEC chose to acknowledge only 2000+ new voters throwing under the bus tens of thousands of other registered voters.
Fourthly, we demand to know why ZEC pulled down its portal after the Citizens’ outcry. Is it an admission of its guiltiness or an attempt to keep the Citizens in the dark on ZEC’s incongruent management of electoral processes.
Fifthly, we demand to know how ZEC came up with the paltry 2000+ new voters yet tens of thousands had registered nationwide.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission must explain all these electoral irregularities and rectify them without inconviniencing and disenfranchising the electorate.
If ZEC insists on keeping on this war path, we will be left with no option as Citizens of this great nation to protect our national voters Roll, our National Electoral Processes and our future from marauding career politicians who focus on consolidating their power instead of focusing on future generations.
It’s high time the Citizens unite to defend the Nation and our future from career politicians.
We will take legal recourse to protect our National Voters Roll and our National Election Processes to ensure free, fair and credible elections in future.
Thank you.
VAA:MUSIMBOTI
VAA:INSIKA
UKAPINDA:NENI NDAPINDAWO
By
Mandava Blessing VAA National Spokesperson 0719891243
The family of South African artist Riky Rick with profound sadness this afternoon confirmed his untimely passing. Son, husband, father, brother and uncle, Riky ‘Ricky’ Makhado (34) sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning (23rd February) in Johannesburg.
Affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe, he was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry. His love for family, friends and community is well known. Riky’s nurturing and developing of young musical talent is well documented, and will forever be remembered.
He leaves behind his wife, two children, his mother and five siblings.
The Makhado family humbly request privacy as they go through this extremely difficult period of grieving. The family has not appointed a spokesperson at this point and they ask that you please keep them in your prayers.
The family are also deeply thankful for and appreciates the countless messages of love and support received, These are felt deeply.
Details of the funeral and memorial will be confirmed at a later stage.
By A Correspondent- A Zimbabwean national, Wellington Kachidza, who pleaded guilty to multiple murders in South Africa, revealed that after a ransom was paid for his victims, he killed them by crushing their heads with rocks.
Kachidza (27), appeared in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Last week, Kachidza pleaded guilty to multiple crimes including at least six murder charges, eight kidnappings, three rapes, robbery with aggravating circumstances and theft.
The court accepted his plea and convicted him on 34 counts in total.
The case was postponed to Wednesday for evidence in mitigation before sentencing.
Kachidza revealed in his guilty plea how he lied to his victims to lure and murder them.
He claimed to need help fetching a car in Eesterust because he did not have a driver’s licence.
On arrival at Eesterust, he would tell his would-be victim that the vehicle was on a plot in the distance and convinced them to accompany him.
In one such incident, on 8 October 2019, Kachidza approached Rendani Maphiri at a garage where he worked and duped him into fetching the car. He said:
After the deceased had knocked off from work, we took a taxi to Eesterust and when we reached there, I convinced the deceased that the motor vehicle was on the other side of the mountain and we had to take a shortcut over the mountain.
When we reached the top of the mountain near a reservoir I attacked the deceased and hit him with a rock on the head. The deceased fell to the ground and became dizzy.
I instructed him to take out his cellphone and to call his sister to tell her he was kidnapped and I demanded an R5 000 ransom.
About R2 000 was sent to the deceased’s cellphone and I later withdrew the money at an ATM.
Kachidza then took his victim’s cellphone by force and after the money was transferred, he killed him by bashing his head with a rock and left his body on the mountain.
Kachidza also lured Tebatso Mogoathlo using the same method and immediately attacked him on the mountain, striking him with a stone on the head. He said:
I then removed his shoelaces and tied his hands. I took his cellphone and told him to call his mother and inform her that he has been kidnapped.
I demanded R3 000 to be paid in the deceased’s bank account.
He said after R2 000 was deposited, he crushed the deceased’s head with a rock and left his body on the mountain.
On the charges of rape, Kachidza lured victims by making them believe he found them a job but would later instruct them to undress and then rape them.
Kachidza also pleaded guilty to contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act.-TimesLive
By Nomusa Garikai- The EU calls on the Zimbabwe government to implement the EU 2018 election recommendation but to no avail because they are ignoring Zanu PF’s political partner – it takes two to tango!
“The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recommendations of the 2018 EU Election Observation Mission. The EU is preparing for a follow-up mission,” reads the EU’s recent statement.
“Moreover, the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they will be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.”
The recommendations of the 2018 EU Election Observer Mission are absolutely necessary if Zimbabwe is to hold free, fair and credible elections. Not even token reforms have been implemented.
On the other hand, it is no secret that Zanu PF will be risking losing the elections if the regime was to implement these recommendations. The EU pressure on Zanu PF to implement the recommendations is reduced if not totally neutralized by Zimbabwe’s opposition’s determination to participate in these elections knowing fully well not only that Zanu PF was rigging but more significantly that by participating they were giving Zanu PF legitimacy.
Zimbabwe’s opposition has been participating in these flawed elections for selfish reasons.
“The worst aspect for me about the failure to agree a coalition was that both MDCs couldn’t now do the obvious – withdraw from the elections,” confessed David Coltart in his book The Struggle Continues 50 years of Tyranny in Zimbabwe. Coltart is a former MDC – Ncube Senator and Minister of Education in the 2008 to 2013 GNU.
“The electoral process was so flawed, so illegal, that the only logical step was to withdraw, which would compel SADC to hold Zanu PF to account. But such was the distrust between the MDC-T and MDC-N that neither could withdraw for fear that the other would remain in the elections, winning seats and giving the process credibility.”
EU’s call for election reforms and free and fair elections is falling on deaf Zanu PF and MDC/CCC ears; as long as Chamisa and company continue participating to give Zanu PF legitimacy there will never be free, fair and credible elections. It is high time that EU acknowledged for there to be meaningful political change in Zimbabwe pressure must be brought to bear on both Zanu PF and the MDC/CCC because there is a symbiotic relationship between the two.
Zimbabwe is standing on the edge of the precipitous abyss and another rigged election may well send the nation tumbling over the edge. Both Zanu PF and MDC/CCC must now be told in no uncertain terms that they each have a role to play in making sure 2023 elections are free, fair and credible.
By A Correspondent- A 42-year old Harare man yesterday appeared at the Mbare Magistrates Court charged with insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Clapton Redi (42) pleaded not guilty when he appeared before magistrate Rangarirayi Gakanje, who remanded him to March 2 for trial commencement.
Allegations are that on December 14 last year, Patrick Madiye, who is employed by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission as a senior investigation officer, parked his vehicle at Tsiga Tyres along Jack Bakasa Street, Mbare.
Madiye allegedly overheard Redi talking to one Majaya, a Zanu-PF ward chairman in Mbare, insulting the President .
Redi was asked by Majaya why he was insulting the President.
He allegedly continued to insult Mnangagwa, leading Majaya to file a police report, which resulted in his arrest.
By A Correspondent- Six Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists appeared in court facing a charge of insulting police officers calling them President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s dogs.
Nobody Makoni (51), Batsirai Sora (33), Kudzai Sachiwo (27), Jacob Chigodora (32), Chipo Mungoshi (34) and Memory Chikodze (35), who are on $5 000 bail, appeared before Barbara Mateko at the Harare Magistrates Court.
They will be back in court on March 3 for a ruling.
According to the charge sheet, it is alleged that the six insulted police officers saying: “Mapurisa imi murimbwa dzaMnangagwa. Munongoshandiswa muchafa muchitambura (You police officers are Mnangagwa’s dogs. You are being used, you will die poor).”
The alleged incident happened in Epworth in November last year where opposition activists had gathered for a meeting.
Their lawyer, Noble Chinhanu of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, yesterday challenged the State to prove how the police officers were robbed of their dignity by the alleged insults.
“There is nothing to show that the accused were not merely making an observation on the office of a police officer in particular and nothing in their personal capacity as human beings. The complainant’s name was not mentioned except the offence of a policeman/policewoman in general. The complainant is taking offence for the entire police service,” Chinhanu said.
Tambudzai Dzumbunu, a female police officer stationed at Epworth Police Station is the complainant in the case.
Chinhanu argued that being called Mnangagwa’s dog was a compliment as it described the loyalty of the “insulted” police officers.
“If the accused meant that the office of the police officers can be construed as Mnangagwa’s dogs in the sense that they are in the loyal service of the State and Mnangagwa is the Head of State, one wonders why we are even wasting resources on this case. There is no particularisation of which part is insulting,” Chinhanu said.
“This could be anything and the accused at the very moment are perplexed wondering which of the following is the reason for the feelings felt by the complaint: is it the reference to the dog, is it the reference to being in Mr Mnangagwa’s service in particular, is it the claim that they are being abused or is it that it was said that they are suffering or will die suffering?”
“The complainant is obviously not a dog belonging to Mnangagwa and no one in their right mind would mistake her for one. There is no mention of the insulating qualities of a dog that the accused likened her to. On most accounts, a dog is a wonderful animal with noble qualities and traits. Most notable is the wonderful phrase ‘man’s best friend’ with regard to its loyalty, braverly, companionship, service and protection or security.”
By Farai D Hove | The man who hates the CCC party to the bone, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi’s brother’s son has announced he shall from today onwards start respecting CCC President Nelson Chamisa having been shocked how he retains the command of the masses despite so many put-offs about him.
Frank Ziyambi
Frank Ziyambi made this revelation on Wednesday morning in a thread he opened narrating several things about Chamisa from the Tsvangirai days to present day Zimbabwe.
Below was his comment:
What is it that Robert Mugabe saw in this young man Adv Nelson Chamisa that he didn’t see in his loyal Cdes?
What is it that Morgan Tsvangirai saw in this young man Adv Nelson Chamisa that he even went against the party constitution and appointed him Vice President?
What is it that millions of Zimbabweans see in this youngman? The young man doesn’t have ideology, he doesn’t have track record, he doesn’t have a party, he doesn’t have a plan he didn’t go to war, he is not mature, he doesn’t have strategy but people still see hope in him. Some people see a biblical Moses in him
Even inini semurakashi if I don’t tuka him or mention his name I feel like handina kurakasha.
Some people feel that this youngman must acknowledge that President won the election in 2018 kuti zviite chiremera. Why him?
We have a government which has done a lot so far better than heavenly government but still some millions think this youngman can still do better. What’s with this youngman.
Recently a popular dj Tawaz confessed that he even wanted to have a tattoo of this youngman. Chii chaizvo.
Dai vanhu vese ava vaive nemaziso one one taiti pamwe rinoona kudarika ane two seni hanti kunonzi panoitwa vana Hapurakatapura hapadiwe munhu ane ziso one.
From today going forward I have decided to respect this youngman.
By A Correspondent- A 31 year old man was fatally wounded during an alleged shoot-out with the police in Mmatswale township on the outskirts of Musina in Limpopo.
Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the suspected criminal identified as Zimbabwean national Prince Dube died on Tuesday, while one of his accomplices was arrested.
“The police received information about the believably dangerous suspect who, together with his companions, were allegedly terrorising the community around Musina with armed robberies and other serious crimes. A dedicated team of the local members was assembled and conducted a snap search operation at the identified location,” said Mojapelo.
The law enforcement team succeeded in apprehending the suspect.
“Further probe led the members to the suspect’s alleged accomplices in the area, and on arrival the suspect allegedly started shooting at the members who returned fire, fatally wounding him. He was identified as Prince Dube from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe,” said Mojapelo.
He said police recovered five illegal firearms, including two pistols, two .303 rifles and one pellet gun, during the operation.
“The firearms will be subjected to ballistic examination to determine if they were used in other serious crimes. Cases of murder, attempted murder and possession of illegal firearms have been opened. The suspect might be linked with other serious crimes as police investigations are unfolding,” said Mojapelo.
In Gauteng, a group comprising South Africans, a Botswana national and Zimbabweans on Monday exchanged extensive gunfire with police officers in Rosettenville, Gauteng.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) said the group of men appeared to be well trained and proficient in the use of firearms.
“Our investigators have just left the scene now, they are exhausted. They picked up about a hundred bullets from the scene. They were still picking some this morning,” said Ipid spokesperson Grace Langa.
“It really looks very bad. Some of the deceased robbers were found in people’s yards. Imagine getting to your house and there you found somebody’s body. They were also shooting at police. Some of the bullets are on the roofs of some of the houses in that area. It is a very big scene that will take quite a lot to complete in investigating.”
She said the criminals looked experienced.
“Even the manner in which they were shooting at the police, it looks like people who are well trained. The allegation is that the suspect from Botswana who was arrested is a mastermind. I mean, a person leaves Botswana and comes to commit crime in South Africa and becomes a mastermind of crime. It is saddening,” she said.
“We don’t want to judge. I’m just gonna leave it at that. Ipid is doing its job, only to investigate. The rest, we leave it to the courts.”
She said Ipid had collected the firearms of the police officers who were involved in taking down the criminals.
“So far we have got about 50 names of police officers who were involved. We are going to collect their statements as well. Some of them were really not in a good state. I was there last night when investigators were interviewing them. Some are really traumatised,” said Langa.-IOL
The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) yesterday said it was not responsible for the dilapidated state of roads across the country, insisting that its mandate was to collect funds and disburse them to road authorities.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa last year declared the country’s roads a state of national disaster.
Addressing journalists yesterday, Zinara board chairperson George Manyaya said the road authority’s mandate was to collect fees or any other revenue of the Road Fund and allocate and disburse the funds to road authorities in line with the respective Roads and Public Finance and Management Acts.
Manyaya said road authorities were responsible for ensuring that roads throughout the country are well maintained.
“The rebranded Zinara will continue to practise transparency, accountability and disclosure. The funds we hold are public funds, belong to the people of Zimbabwe, hence gone are the days when the nation was not aware of what has been disbursed and to who,” Manyaya said.
“The road authorities that we disburse to are, the Department of Roads under the Transport and Infrastructural Development ministry, the District Development Fund (DDF) in the Office of the President and Cabinet and the various urban and rural district councils. All entities falling under these road authority groups are thereafter responsible for the maintenance of our road networks. Let me emphasise that our role as a fund administrator is limited to availing funding to road authorities.
“After funding is received by the respective road authorities, we do follow the impact of the disbursed funds by monitoring and evaluating their use, hence our mandate is to audit the 93 road authorities in the country to ensure that the funds have, indeed, been used for their intended purpose.”
“In our engagements with the road authorities, we always emphasise the importance of delivering quality road maintenance to ensure that the limited funds are stretched further over the years to avoid a scenario where contractors have to attend to patching work recurrently.”
Zinara has set a budget of $17 billion for roads this year.
From the $17 billion, the Department of Roads will get $6 billion, DDF ($4,52bn), Harare City Council ($1bn), Bulawayo City Council ($338 million), Gweru Urban Council ($196m), Mutare Urban Council ($163m), Masvingo City Council ($122m), Mashonaland East ($519m), Mashonaland Central ($451m), Manicaland ($444m), Mashonaland West ($741m), Masvingo ($361m), Midlands ($661m), Matabeleland North ($524m) and Matabeleland South ($495m).
Manyaya said Zinara targeted to collect $34 billion this year.
He said 95% would go towards roads and 5% to administration, as well as repayment of the US$206 million loan facility from the Development Bank of Southern Africa which is being utilised to construct the Plumtree-Mutare Highway.
Zinara said it had taken measures to safeguard its revenue by tightening security through installing CCTV at tollgates.
A daring Guruve man has died after he was severely assaulted with a machete on Valentine’s Day after he was caught pampering a married woman with gifts.
Tapfumanei Matibhiri (50) was assaulted by Chance Chipengo who caught him in his marital bedroom pampering his wife with gifts.
Mashonaland Central police spokesperson Inspector Milton Mundembe yesterday confirmed the case.
“I can confirm a sudden death case in Guruve of Matibhiri who was severely assaulted with a machete and metal rod after he was caught in Chipengo’s bedroom giving Patricia Kakora (Chipengo’s wife) Valentine Day gifts,” Mundembe said.
He said after the assault, Matibhiri was rushed to Guruve hospital by a Good Samaritan, but he succumbed to the injuries four days later.
Police are now on a manhunt for Chipengo who has since gone into hiding.
“This is Gurwe Radio and we announce today that the soldiers have taken over the country and President …and his wife… have flown out; we now have a new govt and everyone is celebrating.”
A hilarious doctored picture of CCC President Nelson Chamisa chasing Emmerson Mnangagwa down a street has taken the nation by storm.
In the graphic Chamisa is wielding a sharp stick pursuing Mnangagwa, while the ZANU PF coupist is busy pouncing the ground fleeing Chamisa like a copper wire thief. The image is reminiscent of the weeks before the removal of Robert Mugabe when a social media radio station began dishing out podcasts that suggested Mnangagwa would chase his own boss Robert Mugabe out of Zimbabwe. The audiocasts would sound as follows: “This is Gurwe Radio and we announce today that the soldiers have taken over the country and President Mugabe and his wife Grace have flown out; we now have a new govt and everyone is celebrating.” WILL HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF?
The Public Service Commission (PSC) said it was going ahead with plans to replace teachers who defied its ultimatum to report for work yesterday without the option of re-engagement in future.
Teachers are locked in a salary dispute with the government after they rejected a 20% salary offer and US$100 allowance among other non-monetary benefits as they insisted on the pre-October 2018 US$540 salary.
The educators have escalated the salary dispute to Education International, asking the Belgium-headquartered global federation of teacher unions to intervene.
As the dispute raged on, the PSC gave the teachers an ultimatum to report for duty yesterday or face dismissal.
This was despite the High Court overturning Primary and Secondary Education minister Evelyn Ndlovu’s earlier suspension of some teachers.
PSC chairperson Jonathan Wutawunashe yesterday said there was no going back on the tough action against absentee teachers.
“Those teachers who signal that they are no longer willing to work, naturally, have to be replaced as quickly as possible in the interests of schoolchildren,” Wutawunashe told the NewsDay yesterday.
“A teacher, who is absent from work, needs to give a valid and verifiable reason for unavoidable absence, failing which the regulations provide procedures for disciplinary measures, which include dismissal. Urgent recruitment, where there are no teachers, will be done in accordance with established recruitment procedures.”
Government has said it would replace the striking teachers with unemployed trained educators or college graduates. However, unions representing student teachers have also cited incapacitation and called for a review of their allowances.
Meanwhile, Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Taungana Ndoro yesterday claimed that the majority of teachers reported for duty fearing dismissal. Teacher unions said their members stayed away from class.
“For now, we are still collating information on teacher turnout, but generally, we had a very high turnout. Our inspectors are fully operational on the ground and there is no way teachers can go into the classroom just to sit,” Ndoro said.
A survey carried out by NewsDay showed that at several primary schools, teachers reported for work, but at high schools teacher absence was still high.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said government wanted to divide teacher unions. This was after the Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) urged its members to report for duty.
“Our initial momentum and unity in diversity across the teacher union divide has been riddled following some teacher unions’ romance with government and complicity in incapacitating teachers. Government has been embarrassed by teachers and was forced to back down on suspension of all teachers, but its potential to decimate divided educators remains realistic,” Majongwe said.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) president Obert Masaraure said: “The government has deployed massive resources towards deceit, threats and fomenting divisions. The teachers remained united against the odds, but the unity could only last for a while, with more pressure from the government some have regrettably succumbed.”
Masaraure said Artuz members would not report for duty until government engaged in genuine negotiations with the educators.
Zimta president Richard Gundane repeated the call for teachers to go back to work.
“We believe our members will understand the desire to de-escalate this tiff before it crosses the Rubicon of peace and degenerates into a full industrial conflict,” Gundane said.
“We plead with members, in particular those within school environs or are within reach and without heavy financial challenges, to give our learners a chance to get back to school and commence lessons as soon as practically possible.”
Six Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists appeared in court facing a charge of insulting police officers calling them President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s dogs.
Nobody Makoni (51), Batsirai Sora (33), Kudzai Sachiwo (27), Jacob Chigodora (32), Chipo Mungoshi (34) and Memory Chikodze (35), who are on $5 000 bail, appeared before Barbara Mateko at the Harare Magistrates Court.
They will be back in court on March 3 for a ruling.
According to the charge sheet, it is alleged that the six insulted police officers saying: “Mapurisa imi murimbwa dzaMnangagwa. Munongoshandiswa muchafa muchitambura (You police officers are Mnangagwa’s dogs. You are being used, you will die poor).”
The alleged incident happened in Epworth in November last year where opposition activists had gathered for a meeting.
Their lawyer, Noble Chinhanu of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, yesterday challenged the State to prove how the police officers were robbed of their dignity by the alleged insults.
“There is nothing to show that the accused were not merely making an observation on the office of a police officer in particular and nothing in their personal capacity as human beings. The complainant’s name was not mentioned except the offence of a policeman/policewoman in general. The complainant is taking offence for the entire police service,” Chinhanu said.
Tambudzai Dzumbunu, a female police officer stationed at Epworth Police Station is the complainant in the case.
Chinhanu argued that being called Mnangagwa’s dog was a compliment as it described the loyalty of the “insulted” police officers.
“If the accused meant that the office of the police officers can be construed as Mnangagwa’s dogs in the sense that they are in the loyal service of the State and Mnangagwa is the Head of State, one wonders why we are even wasting resources on this case. There is no particularisation of which part is insulting,” Chinhanu said.
“This could be anything and the accused at the very moment are perplexed wondering which of the following is the reason for the feelings felt by the complaint: is it the reference to the dog, is it the reference to being in Mr Mnangagwa’s service in particular, is it the claim that they are being abused or is it that it was said that they are suffering or will die suffering?”
“The complainant is obviously not a dog belonging to Mnangagwa and no one in their right mind would mistake her for one. There is no mention of the insulating qualities of a dog that the accused likened her to. On most accounts, a dog is a wonderful animal with noble qualities and traits. Most notable is the wonderful phrase ‘man’s best friend’ with regard to its loyalty, braverly, companionship, service and protection or security.”
Recalled Chivi South legislator Killer Zivhu (Zanu-PF) has refuted claims that he had rejoined the ruling party despite being seen campaigning for its candidate ahead of the March 26 by-elections.
Zivhu was dismissed from Zanu-PF in 2020 and later recalled from Parliament for misconduct after calling for dialogue between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Citizens Coalition for Change president Nelson Chamisa, who at the time was leading the MDC Alliance.
Zivhu was seen at a Zanu-PF rally in Chivi South, where he delivered a solidarity message.
Zivhu told NewsDay that he had not rejoined Zanu-PF.
“I have not joined Zanu-PF. I am helping my former party to win back the constituency. I haven’t written any letter to be readmitted. This is my former party just like if a former church is having a crusade, there is no need for one not to attend. I offered myself to assist not that l have been recalled or rejoined Zanu-PF,” Zivhu said.
“I want to categorically state that personally, I support (President Emmerson) Mnangagwa as an individual. I have been supporting him for years and I will continue to support him. By so doing, I pledged to him that I would not campaign as an independent to divide the vote during by-elections and I will help any Zanu-PF candidate out of respect for Mnangagwa.
“It does not worry me a lot. I have my own reasons for supporting Mnangagwa. You can pledge to forgive someone who has killed your daughter or your mother. It is your choice to forgive.”
OWN GOAL, OWN PRAISES: Thousands blown by the Board Of the National Competitiveness Commission, congratulating their own boss, for taking over the institution which assesses competitiveness in the country, which the board has already broken. Will @ZACConline investigate? pic.twitter.com/tXOJdPIHUo
By Bornface Masilo| It has now been three years since President Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed office following the disputed 2018 elections. Despite his promises of reform and a new political and economic trajectory, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
Bornface Masilo
Opposition leaders and human rights defenders continue to face arbitrary arrests, abductions, and torture. The judiciary remains a tool for silencing dissent, serving as a weapon against those who challenge the Mnangagwa administration.
In the period leading to the 2008 Presidential elections run-off pitting the then opposition MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai and Zanu PF’s Robert Mugabe, state security agents with the help of war veterans and party youths unleashed violence resulting in the death of hundreds of opposition supporters.
I witnessed this violence firsthand, opposition supporters being tortured, displaced and some even disappearing after being abducted by the Zanu PF activists and state security agents. I can safely say, Zimbabwe should have moved away from that dark past into the new era but Mnangagwa chose to remain on the same path for his selfish interests.
Corruption remains rampant, with many cases linking back to the President and his inner circle. Meanwhile, the economy has shown no meaningful improvement—civil servants still earn far below the poverty datum line, and the local currency continues to depreciate under relentless inflationary pressure.
These issues are not new; Zimbabwe has been trapped in a cycle of economic mismanagement and political repression since the early 2000s. Mnangagwa, upon taking over from Robert Mugabe, pledged to chart a new path, branding his leadership as a “new dispensation.” Many Zimbabweans, hopeful for change, were willing to give him a chance.
However, with each passing day of inaction on the country’s deep-rooted socio-economic and political crises, that trust has eroded—both locally and internationally. Mnangagwa has proven that ZANU PF, much like a leopard, never changes its spots.
The party remains synonymous with corruption, power drunkenness, and self-serving leadership. Its politicians have long abandoned the oath to serve the people, only remembering them during election seasons.
Since assuming office, Mnangagwa has prioritized his family and close allies—figures such as Wicknell Chivhayo and Scott Sakupwanya—who thrive under his protection despite their controversial dealings. Ordinary Zimbabweans, on the other hand, continue to suffer, with their needs consistently ignored until election time.
His administration has done little to improve the livelihoods of the people, particularly civil servants who keep the country running.
With elections just two years away, Zimbabweans must make a decisive choice. Mnangagwa has demonstrated beyond doubt that ZANU PF, in all its forms, remains the same. Whether under Mugabe, Mnangagwa, or any future leader, the party’s governance will not change. There is no justification for giving ZANU PF another chance when history has proven time and again that they will not deliver. A government free from ZANU PF’s grip offers the only real possibility of change.
Mnangagwa had the opportunity to break from Mugabe’s legacy but instead chose the same oppressive and corrupt path. His tenure is set to be remembered as an extension—if not a worsening—of Mugabe’s rule. A second term under his leadership would drag Zimbabwe further backward while the rest of the world moves forward.
Mnangagwa does not deserve another mandate. The people of Zimbabwe entrusted him with leadership in 2018, but he has demonstrated that he knows no governance beyond the authoritarian model of his predecessor. It is time for him to follow Mugabe—not just in leadership style, but in stepping away from the running of this country altogether.
Bornface Masilo is a political activist based in Harare and can be contacted on [email protected]
A 42-year-old Harare man yesterday appeared at the Mbare Magistrates Court charged with insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Clapton Redi (42) pleaded not guilty when he appeared before magistrate Rangarirayi Gakanje, who remanded him to March 2 for trial commencement.
Allegations are that on December 14 last year, Patrick Madiye, who is employed by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission as a senior investigation officer, parked his vehicle at Tsiga Tyres along Jack Bakasa Street, Mbare.
Madiye allegedly overheard Redi talking to one Majaya, a Zanu PF ward chairman in Mbare, insulting the President .
Redi was asked by Majaya why he was insulting the President.
He allegedly continued to insult Mnangagwa, leading Majaya to file a police report, which resulted in his arrest.
No learning is taking place in our schools.The threats from @psczimbabwe & the backtracking of some Unions didn't change anything.We still call upon gvt to genuinely trs & find common ground.Our humble demand is the restoration of pre October 2018 salaries.#SaveOurEducationZWpic.twitter.com/WRRomVXft0
— Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe,ARTUZ (@ARTUZ_teachers) February 23, 2022
By Dr Masimba Mavaza | On the 20th February the leader of the newly formed CCC party pronounced that him and his party did not have any ideology or any goals or objectives. They are blindly rolling riding on their popularity.
Dr Masimba Mavaza
We give credit where it is due. The man is telling the truth. What has surprised many is not that he and his party are without any ideology, without any objective and without any aims; what has surprised so many is the rare pronouncement of the truth. In most cases Chamisa and the truth are never in the same sentence.
The question is : why has Mr Chamisa decided to tell the truth and agree with what many of us have been saying about him and his old party in a new name (effectively old wine in new bottles)?
People live for a principle of which many will die for. A group comes together for a purpose and any grouping with no aim is going nowhere very fast.
A person who leads a group with no aim is called a centrist he has many loves, Civility wonderful! Reason the best! Their list of peeves is equally extensive, but there’s one word that tops the list one important word that sends a shiver down their spine is Ideology. Chamisa shocked everybody when he said he has no ideology. He confirms that he is leading people nowhere and he has no ideology.
He tried to explain his party’s world view, and after an extended tribute to the efficacy of economy he inevitably start to lecture people about the pitfalls of political ideology. Chamisa tells people that what they really crave is a politics free from ideology a technocratic utopia where hysterical ideologues are pushed to the fringes, and every decision is made purely on the basis of facts and evidence.
It is funny how history is littered with examples of lack of spine, policy, idealogy of Mr Chamisa old wine in new bottles.
Look at its precedence. CCC party is the only political party which has its top leadership who have rebelled against one another for political expediency and then re-jumped into bed with one another for the same cohabitation reasons. Any principle or objective in this behaviour and setup? None. So why do they exist then.
Mr Chamisa’s followers tried to burn Madam Khuphe at the funeral of the late Morgan Tswangirayi. Did Mr Chamisa condemn this grim act. No. Any principle. None. Because he is not powered by any ideology nor principles. Mr Chamisa is the only leader whose leadership was allegedly bequeathed by his predecessors ‘s oral will. Any principle here? None. Can this be democratic no not at all.
4 What about the slavish support of crippling sanctions against our country? No principle no value instead Chamisa hopes the sanctions continue until the government is forced out.
This so-called the new (Well behold the nonsense) was not founded on any principle. It is the only political party in history born on a whim and without a constitution: without a founding document and without any founding aims and objectives. It is the only party founded without a foundation. Is it any wonder that its self-appointed leader would, under the weight of overwhelming reality, be forced to concede that it is an outfit with no wit?
It may well be that Mr Chamisa was just slavishily and wantonly immitating Tony Blair, former British Prime Minister when he stated that his party has no ideology. That is is the most concerning bit.
Chamisa shocked the people at his rally that Ideology is a distraction”, people will pontificate. He claims that he can promise people that if he is given power to rule whites will come with monies to support chamisa’s government. This echoes the words of Tendai Mbiti Biti Chamisa’s vice president who said during his campaign that there are a load of white people who are waiting to support their government with loads of money.
This clearly shows that CCC is powered by foreign powers and they only puppets waiting for instructions from their masters. Chamisa tells the people that his party will lead on facts and not on ideology. The truth is of course, a resounding no, because facts alone lead nowhere. Facts themselves give no impetus, because they describe the world as it is, not as we want it to become. Chamisa promises people nothing but facts which can not be substantiated.
But abandoning ideology to imitate Blair exposes the foolishness in Chamisa’s CCC.
Here is the context within which Mr Tony Blair appeared to renounce ideology in the mid 1980s when he was elected leader of the Labour Party while in office. At the time Labour was decidedly Marxist. In Britain a party with Marxist leanings does not win elections. Aware of this, Mr Blair pronounced himself free of ideology, so that he could get support from the right-wing media, particularly the Sun Newspaper.
So the Labour Party abandoned ideology in order to win power. Mr Blair did not stop there. He developed a mantra which went: “what matters is what works”. Tony Blair went on to build many life-changing policies on this mantra, including landmark legislation By contract, Mr Chamisa has no principle, no principle and no ideology.
The new party (the old wine in new bottles) was formed by Mr Morgan Tswangirayi and Mr Gibson Sibanda on the back of the labour movement. Chamisa is now not even pretending to be on the side of workers on whose back he and his party have been riding for so long.
So what is Mr Chamisa telling the electorate? That he has no scruples: that he has no policy: that he has no agenda other than that the Western imposed illegal sanctions must stay.
Chamisa does not understand that facts are descriptive, not normative. They tell us what is, not what should be. They tell us how to do something we want to do, but not why we want to do that thing in the first place.
The reason we can’t have politics without ideology is that politics, quite simply, is ideology. Politics, at its very heart, is about debating why we should and shouldn’t pursue certain outcomes.And that’s all ideology is. Despite its pejorative association with history’s infamous -isms, ideology is just a preference for how society ought to function; a set of principles we use to judge what is fair or unfair, just or unjust. Facts are the what and the how, ideology is the why.
Politicians, even the ones who claim to be unideological, have to use ideology, because every policy contains a value judgement — a position on what outcomes we believe are right, and what outcomes we believe are wrong. Whether we like it or not, every political decision is an ideological one, reflecting the values of the person or party who made it.
Chamisa leads a party with no aim no value his party reflects no values.
An “unideological” politician is like a professional chef who claims not to care how their food tastes, or a prosecutor that couldn’t be fussed what the jury decides either lying to you, or incompetent. So Chamisa is not only a liar but has shown that he is incompetent.
He is focused on foreign money and obviously foreign instructions. He is clearly telling the Zimbabweans that they must follow him into Canaan. But Canaan for Chamisa is to take Zimbabwe in the hands of those who will pay Chamisa. The whole CCC idea is only for money a great betrayal for Zimbabwe. Yet Chamisa dances in front of thousands of his supporters who cheered zimbabwe away and he was dancing the country into the hands of the Western governments which he Chamisa referred to as White men with money.
We should know that this, then, is the bottom line: Most voters aren’t ideologues, and even accounting for that, most ideologues aren’t particularly ideological A party without ideology is surely a mouth piece of other powers hidden somewhere. Thinking about all this mostly reminds us that zimbabwean politics has always been especially ideological and has historically ever been especially ideological. Tradition and institutional structure have given us a robust ideologies. Consequently, practical politics in Zimbabwe revolves around a competition between two political coalitions that are, of necessity, pretty slapdash and unwieldy. The primary fact about Zimbabwe’s political allegiance, under the circumstances, is the voters attitude toward those coalitions not abstract ideas about how things ought to be.
It would have been a different story if Chamisa had said
that politics should be devoid of ideology, and what he really wanted is a politics underpinned by one common ideology a unifying, universal set of principles that all politicians hold as true. But Chamisa offers no principles thus making his supporters fools.
Were there is ideology in existence, politics becomes a domain of pure facts, contracted out to technocratic bureaucrats who can decide the best way to pursue these shared goals.
This is no historical accident, nor is it something we can ever hope to overcome. Pluralism is an explicit design feature of democracy, and as long as our political institutions are shared between tens of millions of people, all from unique cultural backgrounds, it is one that can’t be done without ideology.
People, quite simply, are going to disagree, and it’s fanciful to suggest that politics will ever be more than a partisan scrap for ideological supremacy.
And that’s not a bad thing. If our values and principles are worth anything, they should be worth fighting for.
Because when our politicians claim to stand for nothing, then… well… who knows what’s on your plate.
Chamisa takes Zimbabweans for fools. He has no plan all he promises is money from the whites. Is this the Zimbabwe we want, the Zimbabwe we fought for. The country to be led by people with no purpose and no reason for existence.
Zimbabweans we have been warned CCC does not know why it is in Politics.
By A Correspondent- Citizens Coalition for Change President Nelson Chamisa and Zanu PF leader Emerson Mnangagwa are expected to address their party rallies in Kwekwe this weekend.
This was announced by a top Chamisa ally and aspiring Mbizo lawmaker. Settlement Chikwinya on his Facebook page.
Posted Chikwinya:
It’s going to be an exciting Weekend for Kwekwe Residents as @edmnangagwa will address a rally in Mbizo Stadium on 26 February while @nelsonchamisa addresses at Mbizo 4 Shopping Centre on 27/02 Kuzaba lit, ” he said.
By- Another Zimbabwean footballer, Donald Malajila, was shot dead in Cape Town, South Africa, on Saturday.
The former Dynamos youth player was the brother to former Warriors star Cuthbert.
Donald (29), went out on Saturday but did not come back. Soccer24 quotes his close friend as saying:
Donny left home on Saturday but never returned. We started looking for him the next day, we saw his car parked on the edge of the road. It was locked but he wasn’t in it.
We then made a report to the police. On Monday, we were told his body had been found, we went to the nearby mortuary and it was there. He had no form of identification on him, but we managed to identify his body.
Malajila’s death comes barely a week after former Warriors left-back Charles Yohane was shot and killed in an apparent hijack in Soweto.
He was 48 years old.
According to reports coming from South Africa, Yohane was hijacked and kidnapped and later killed by the hijackers. His body was discovered on Monday in Mzimhlophe, Soweto.
Many Zimbabweans including business people have been killed in South Africa over the years.
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition for a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe at all levels.
The EU has reviewed its restrictive measures in respect of Zimbabwe and in this context recalls the Council Conclusions of 17 February 2020 as well as the Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the EU of 19 February 2021.
Since then, the situation in terms of respect for human rights has not improved in Zimbabwe. Intimidation of the political opposition and other government critics has continued to restrict the democratic and civic space, which is under threat of shrinking further, through the Data Protection Act and ongoing legislative processes such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged so-called “Patriotic Act”. The EU is concerned about these developments. Perpetrators of human rights violations should be swiftly brought to justice to end impunity. The recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and need to be implemented as a matter of priority and urgency. It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In this light, the EU recalls the purpose of its restrictive measures, which is to encourage a demonstrable, genuine, and long-term commitment by the Zimbabwean authorities to respect and uphold human rights and the rule of law. The EU has decided to renew its restrictive measures, while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries, remain in place taking into account the situation in Zimbabwe, as well as the continuing need to investigate the role of security forces in human rights abuses. The EU will continue to closely follow developments, with a particular attention to the human rights situation, and recalls its readiness to review and adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The measures in place are targeted and very limited, therefore they do not affect the people of Zimbabwe, its economy, foreign direct investments, or trade. Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU, while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement. There is significant potential in terms of investments and jobs opportunities, if structural bottlenecks were to be addressed, and political and economic reforms, including enhancing trust in the rule of law, tackling corruption and respect for human rights, are implemented.
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms, based on tangible commitments made by the Government of Zimbabwe. The EU will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe focusing on three priority areas as aligned with the Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy: (i) good governance and citizens’ rights; (ii) green economic growth and; (iii) social recovery and human development. The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP26. The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, in case of need.
The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recommendations of the 2018 EU Election Observation Mission. The EU is preparing for a follow up mission. Moreover, the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they will be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.
As an integral element of its engagement with Zimbabwe, the EU looks forward to have a political dialogue in Harare as a matter of priority and notes the readiness of both sides to organize this dialogue in the near future. The political dialogue will provide an opportunity for regular and open discussions, on many subjects, including on economy and human rights. The political dialogue is key in fostering mutual understanding and constructive cooperation, paving the way for progress in the relations.
By A Correspondent- CCC President Nelson Chamisa will be at Gokwe centre for the by-election rally this Saturday.
His party’s vice spokesperson, Gift Ostallos Siziba made the announcement.
“This weekend, we will present the Alternative, the Citizens Coalition in Gokwe. The intention, fellow Africans, is to articulate our agenda, introduce our candidate and prepare Zimbabwe for Change,” Siziba posted on his Twitter handle, Tuesday.
This weekend, we will present the Alternative, the Citizens Coalition in Gokwe. The intention fellow Africans is to articulate our agenda, introduce our candidate and prepare Zimbabwe for Change. #YellowRallypic.twitter.com/lV6NexAYki
By-Yonah Ncube (94), who served as a personal driver to the late nationalist, Vice President Joshua Nkomo, is suing the state and seeking reparations after he was shot by a Fifth brigade soldier in 1983.
Ncube who was shot while at Nkomo’s home in Pelandaba Suburb told CITE in an interview at his sister in law’s house in Nketa suburb on Saturday that the matter has also been taken to the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) for attention.
He added:
It was on 5 March 1983 when a soldier shot me point blank on the right side of my chest. I remember losing a lot of blood. I want them to pay me for my blood. They can estimate the amount of blood I lost and calculate its cost.
I need closure, as I have been traumatised all my life since that day. I was 55 then and ever since I was unable to work.
On March 5, 1983, we heard a helicopter flying above announcing that Bulawayo was surrounded and everyone was commanded to stay home. I and other workers were at Nkomo’s house in Pelandaba in the afternoon when soldiers arrived with the support unit and searched the whole house. Many more surrounded the house and we wondered what they wanted. That afternoon I sent my son to a neighbour’s house because I had an uneasy unfeeling.
Ncube said that evening one soldier returned back and found him by himself. The soldier questioned him in Shona demanding to know where Nkomo was.
He responded saying he did not know but the soldier did not believe him. The soldier then commanded that the houses be searched. During the search, the soldier shot Ncube on the right side of his chest and he collapsed.
The soldier then left. Ncube was recovered later by the police support unit which came with one soldier and drove to Mpilo where he was admitted for two months under police guard.
The day after Ncube’s shooting, a state newspaper reported that Nkomo’s driver who was armed with a gun had been shot and killed, reports he denies.
After he was discharged, Ncube was taken straight to jail at West Commonage Police Station where he spent almost two months but no docket was opened, neither was a statement or his fingerprints taken.
Ncube says it is difficult to heed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for reconciliation adding he wants to know “why that soldier shot me.”
Ncube demands to be paid US$2.9 million as reparations but his lawyers, Webb, Low and Barry, however, have revised the figure down to US$30 000 broken down as follows: US$10 000 for loss of employment, US$20 000 for pain and suffering.
Tinashe Sambiri|Former Zanu PF hardman Godfrey Tsenengamu has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa has nothing new to offer to the nation.
Speaking to thousands of Citizens’ Coalition For Change supporters at Zimbabwe Grounds on Sunday, Tsenengamu described President Nelson Chamisa as the real deal in terms of delivering real change.
According Tsenengamu, Mr Mnangagwa is worse than his former boss Robert Mugabe.
“You see the one you call garwe( Mnangagwa) knows me personally. We thought he was for change when we removed Mugabe.
We thought Mugabe was the problem yet the old man had lost grip.
He was no longer in a position to control his men.
His men are now tormenting us. You think Mnangagwa can perform miracles – that’s impossible,” said Tsenengamu to a thunderous applause.
The late Movement for Democratic Change President Morgan Tsvangirai’s son Richard also attended the Citizens’ Coalition For Change rally.
He said :”People are suffering. We are witnessing untold suffering of citizens in the country.
My message is clear, President Chamisa is the hope of the nation,” said Richard Tsvangirai.
Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change leader President Nelson Chamisa has declared that Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa will not be given space to steal the people’s victory in the 2023 Presidential Election.
President Chamisa made the remarks at Zimbabwe Grounds on Sunday.
President Chamisa is confident CCC will defeat Zanu PF in both rural and urban areas.
“Don’t worry about the countryside. Rural areas are now centers of transformation and change. I toured our rural communities and the regime almost had me killed after seeing the response of the citizens there. Yellow has been embraced everywhere.
Some citizens say voting is pointless because they’ll be rigging. The biggest rigging is not registering to vote. If the farm is big enough, the baboon won’t steal all the yield. We need to win with a huge margin that will overwhelm ZEC’s rigging plans.”
President Chamisa added: “We’ve commissioned a team of experts to work on the voters roll. We’ve even been getting warnings from some in government, to pay attention to it. Yellow is everywhere. We’ve unearthed irregularities & now they are declining their own voters roll.
We gather here to also declare that never again shall elections be rigged in Zimbabwe. We need to give dignity to our security officers. Our war veterans helped liberate us. In my days in Parliament, I always stood for warvets & we represented them for free, under our law firm. Many died without enjoying the independence they fought for.”
According to President Chamisa, teachers have a constitutional right to demand decent living conditions.
“Our government will honour teachers. They are the foundation & guardians of the destiny of any nation. They are the campus of civilisation. Without teachers there are no politicians, cooks nor builders. They must be respected & given back their dignity.
Chamisa is not the poverty affecting our civil servants. Teachers have a right to demand a better salary and shouldn’t succumb to threats. Under our government, we will revert back to the salaries and benefits previously enjoyed by our civil servants.
In 2003, Mudede did the same in Kuwadzana & produced a VR with over 8k voters. We went to court to have the VR produced during 1st 20 minutes & that’s how we exposed them. We are warning ZEC to remove fake names on the VR & return them where they belong.”
Tinashe Sambiri|Zanu PF chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has stunned all and sundry after claiming her party will not concede defeat in the coming polls.
Muchinguri- Kashiri further claimed that the pen cannot change the current political scenario.
The Zanu PF chairperson accused the opposition of calling for sanctions on Harare.
Analysts Muchinguri-Kashiri’s utterances indicate Zanu PF has been shaken by President Nelson Chamisa’s rally.
She wrote on Twitter: “Wapwere weZimbabwe wango ziwa the party to vote for. Zimbabwe yaka uya ngehondo saka haizo endaba ngeball point pen!!
The regime change agenda will not be tolerated. This is a threat to our sovereignty. Western sponsored imperialist backed CCC will never rule this country. Never!
Tinashe Sambiri|Douglas Togarasei Mwonzora’s world is collapsing around him.
At the weekend he was ditched by a senior MDC T official- alongside 30 members of the party.
Wlbert Mutero the former MDC T district chairperson in Highfield East has officially joined CCC.
He joined the Yellow Revolution with 30 people.
Mutero said: “We have joined President Chamisa’s party because of it’s popularity and capacity to dislodge Zanu PF and bring total transformation in Zimbabwe.”
“l left Mwonzora’s party because of its proximity to Zanu PF. There are lot of conflicts in MDC T and they have no solid structures across Zimbabwe.”
Tinashe Sambiri|Douglas Togarasei Mwonzora’s world is collapsing around him.
At the weekend he was ditched by a senior MDC T official- alongside 30 members of the party.
Wlbert Mutero the former MDC T district chairperson in Highfield East has officially joined CCC.
He joined the Yellow Revolution with 30 people.
Mutero said: “We have joined President Chamisa’s party because of it’s popularity and capacity to dislodge Zanu PF and bring total transformation in Zimbabwe.”
“l left Mwonzora’s party because of its proximity to Zanu PF. There are lot of conflicts in MDC T and they have no solid structures across Zimbabwe.”
Get vaccinated as soon as it’s your turn and follow local guidance on vaccination. Keep physical distance of at least 1 metre from others, even if they don’t appear to be sick. Avoid crowds and close contact.
Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings.
Clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately and clean hands regularly. If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, self-isolate until you recover.
Wear a mask properly To properly wear your mask:
Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth and chin. Clean your hands before you put your mask on, before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time. When you take off your mask, store it in a clean plastic bag, and every day either wash it if it’s a fabric mask or dispose of it in a trash bin if it’s a medical mask.
Don’t use masks with valves.
More about masks:
When and how to wear masks Questions and answers about children and masks Guidance for decision makers and health workers.
Make your environment safer The risks of getting COVID-19 are higher in crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected people spend long periods of time together in close proximity.
Outbreaks have been reported in places where people have gather, often in crowded indoor settings and where they talk loudly, shout, breathe heavily or sing such as restaurants, choir practices, fitness classes, nightclubs, offices and places of worship.
To make your environment as safe as possible:
Avoid the 3Cs: spaces that are closed, crowded or involve close contact. Meet people outside. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, particularly if indoor spaces are small and without outdoor air coming in.
If you can’t avoid crowded or indoor settings, take these precautions: Open a window to increase the amount of natural ventilation when indoors.
Source: World Health Organization Inserted by Zimbabwe Online Health Centre
By- The late Vice President, Joshua Nkomo’s driver Yonah Ncube (94), has sued the state for gunfire wounds he suffered in the hands of a Fifth brigade soldier in 1983.
Ncube who was shot while at Nkomo’s home in Pelandaba Suburb, told CITE in an interview at his sister in law’s house in Nketa suburb on Saturday that the matter has also been taken to the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) for attention.
He added:
It was on 5 March 1983 when a soldier shot me point blank on the right side of my chest. I remember losing a lot of blood. I want them to pay me for my blood. They can estimate the amount of blood I lost and calculate its cost.
I need closure, as I have been traumatised all my life since that day. I was 55 then and ever since I was unable to work.
On March 5, 1983, we heard a helicopter flying above announcing that Bulawayo was surrounded and everyone was commanded to stay home. I and other workers were at Nkomo’s house in Pelandaba in the afternoon when soldiers arrived with the support unit and searched the whole house. Many more surrounded the house and we wondered what they wanted. That afternoon I sent my son to a neighbour’s house because I had an uneasy unfeeling.
Ncube said that evening one soldier returned back and found him by himself. The soldier questioned him in Shona demanding to know where Nkomo was.
He responded saying he did not know but the soldier did not believe him. The soldier then commanded that the houses be searched. During the search, the soldier shot Ncube on the right side of his chest and he collapsed.
The soldier then left. Ncube was recovered later by the police support unit which came with one soldier and drove to Mpilo where he was admitted for two months under police guard.
The day after Ncube’s shooting, a state newspaper reported that Nkomo’s driver who was armed with a gun had been shot and killed, reports he denies.
After he was discharged, Ncube was taken straight to jail at West Commonage Police Station where he spent almost two months but no docket was opened, neither was a statement or his fingerprints taken.
Ncube says it is difficult to heed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for reconciliation adding he wants to know “why that soldier shot me.”
Ncube demands to be paid US$2.9 million as reparations but his lawyers, Webb, Low and Barry, however, have revised the figure down to US$30 000 broken down as follows: US$10 000 for loss of employment, US$20 000 for pain and suffering.
By- Ex- Dynamos youth player, Donald Malajila, was shot dead in a suspected robbery case in South Africa on Saturday.
Donald, who is young brother to former Warriors star Cuthbert Malajila, was killed in Cape Town.
Cuthbert confirmed the developments to H-Metro.
H-Metro sent a condolence message reading “sorry for your loss” to the former Warriors star who responded by saying, “Thank you.” Cuthbert is yet to respond to other questions sent to him by this publication. According to reports, Donald left home on Saturday and did not return. A search was launched the following day and they found his car parked on the roadside but he was not in the car. A report of a missing person was lodged with the police. The police then notified Donald’s friend, who had reported to the police, on Monday that they had found a dead body. His body was identified in a mortuary on Monday. Donald’s death came barely a week after former Warriors left back Charles Yohane was shot dead in a carjacking incident in the same country. -H Metro
By- Two brothers from Chinhoyi drowned recently in the flooded Angwa River while illegally panning for alluvial gold.
The siblings died one after the other as the elder tried to rescue his young brother from drowning.
Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Margaret Chitove said the two brothers – Benjamin Muchatiza (25) and Jasphet Muchatiza (22) were in the company of Washington Chakadzika (42) and Miriam Muchatiza (38) of River Range, Chinhoyi panning for gold.
“Josphet Muchatiza’s hat fell into the river and he tried to retrieve it, but drowned. His brother, Benjamin, dived into the river to rescue his young brother and he also drowned,” said Inspector Chitove.
She encouraged the public to avoid entering flooded rivers with unpredictable water currents during the rainy season.
By A Correspondent- Zanu PF Emmerson Mnangagwa has said that his Government was ready to deal with Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa.
On Sunday, Mr Chamisa addressed an oversubscribed rally in Harare where he said he would win the 2023 harmonised elections.
The meeting shocked Chamisa.
Addressing youths gathered at Robert Gabriel Square to commemorate the National Youth Day, President Mnangagwa said Government is ready to deal with such threats, which he said were counterproductive coming from a person aspiring to lead the country. “Ndakashaya kuti zvino nhai veduweee kana mai vacho vanoti ndakaberekei. Zvonzi naChamisa nezuro kana ndikasahwina maelections egore rinouya tinoita mheremhere, babangu Shumba! Zvino wagona kutaura kuti uchaita mheremehere tagadzirira (I asked myself what even does his mother say about him. Chamisa said if I do not win next year’s elections I will cause violence. Since you have said you will unleash violence we are ready to deal with that).” President Mnangagwa said he was equally stunned, when Mr Chamisa said he will invite back whites in the country once he assumed power. “My heart bled yesterday when I heard Chamisa saying if I become President in five days, this country will be littered with whites.
“I have said repeatedly that Zimbabwe is built by Zimbabweans, just as Zambia is built by its own citizens, so is Botswana, Malawi, Britain, United States, China or Russia. Chamisa unoda kuti nyika ivakwe nevarungu. Svoda (Chamisa you want your country to be built by whites, be ashamed of yourself),” said President Mnangagwa. He said Zimbabwe was liberated by those, who removed the very white people that Mr Chamisa wants back in Zimbabwe as masters. President Mnangagwa implored Zimbabweans to reject opposition political parties bent on making the country a servile state of Western countries by inviting back former colonisers. “On your part, I urge you to reject those who want to make our country puppets of other jurisdictions. The onus is on you our young people to defend, protect and guard the independence of our great country. While the young people of yesteryear used the gun to bring about independence and sovereignty, today you only have to use your vote to defend our great country,” he said. “Therefore use your vote wisely, conscious that, this very right to vote was paid for by the blood of many young sons and daughters of our great country. “Together with us your leadership, we shall continue to build the Zimbabwe we all want. We are a diverse people but one nation. There is no room for hate speech, Zimbabwe is a unitary State. Those who dream to divide this country should wake up in their dreams. There is no room for tribalism, regionalism, hate or violence. Your responsibility as youth is to remain patriotic,” he said.
By-At least 14 people have been duped of nearly US$20 000 in a scam in which they contributed US$10 every day with the promise of getting a Honda Fit Hybrid, holidays and other prizes and benefits.
The elaborate scheme, dubbed the Econet Youth Promotion Programme, had people who presented themselves as officials from Econet, including someone claiming to be secretary to founder and executive chairman Mr Strive Masiyiwa.
They allegedly had Econet paraphernalia and branded vehicles, although they had no connection with the company. As a bait, the victims initially got US$100 each as capital to start a business or boost an existing one. Thereafter, they were expected to pay US$60 every week until they reached an agreed amount and then they would choose a vehicle of their choice. Part of the package that victims were promised in addition included $2 500 cash, a $1 000 grocery voucher, holiday and hotel accommodation worth US$500 and a free contract line. The scam started sometime in August 2021 and people were paying up to around January this year before the inevitable crash. One of the linchpins in the scheme, Tinos Mudema, has since appeared before Kariba magistrate Mr Tapiwa Banda facing 14 counts of fraud. Prosecutor Miss Caren Musiiwa alleged that Mudema of 2339 Nyamhunga 1 Township in Kariba made misrepresentations to the 14 people, leading them to each lose between US$1 100 and US$1 200. Those who lost money included Lawrence Mavhunga, Learnmore Zhira, Blessing Kamudambo, Nickson Mudzimba, Richard Chirimuhanzi, Mafios Mangirazi, Tinashe Magarangoma, Mike Chamonyonga, Forward Mheremhere, Lazarus Adam, Crispen Stima, Revinuss Musizandare, Robert Sibanda and Ngonidzashe Chido. The team held a feast at Luna Lodges in Kariba on November 10 last year where a woman was introduced as Mr Masiyiwa’s secretary and addressed them saying the last payment would be made on December 18. They would then receive their full benefits on December 22. However, things came to a head when Mudema, who was the face of the scheme, started giving excuses as delays built up, leading to the matter being reported to the police. Mudema was arrested and his accomplices have not yet been accounted for.
By- South Africa’s police minister, Bheki Cele, Monday said police shot and killed 8 members of a 25-member gang involved in cash heists in Gauteng and Kwazulu Natal (KZN), arrested 8 while the remaining are still at large.
Cele said the gang is armed to the teeth as they have AK47s and double magazines.
He said the gang comprised of 4 South Africans from KZN, 1 from Botswana and “the rest” – 20 from Zimbabwe shot at a helicopter and injured the pilot. Watch the video below for more:
A Zimbabwean opposition activist has fled the country to the USA as a result of relentless Zanu PF terror.
Shame Mutsambiri( 40) originally from Hurungwe has revealed how he was nearly killed by Zanu PF agents before fleeing to the USA.
Speaking to ZimEye.com from his base in America, Mutsambiri said Zanu PF agents have vowed to kill him upon his return to Zimbabwe.
” My parents were both active members of the opposition political party MDC which was led by Morgan Tsvangirai since it was formed in 1999.
It became very dangerous for my family to continue living in Hurungwe because no one was allowed to be part of the opposition party,” said Mutsambiri.
His parents were murdered by the Zanu PF regime during the bloody 2008 Presidential Election Runoff.
“My parents were killed during the 2008 election campaign when our house was set on fire. This incident traumatized me, and I was now labeled as the son of swindlers in my village. I fled my country and went to Zambia because of the tension. I struggled financially in Zambia, which prompted me to return home during the Unity Government’s tenure (2009 to 2013). It was also during this time that I married Faith Mhandu in 2012.
However, the problem reappeared shortly after the formation of the Unity Government,” he added.
Mutsambiri was nearly killed by Zanu PF agents when he was in Zimbabwe.
He had to flee from Zanu PF terror as his life was in danger.
” Youths from the Zanu-PF party began threatening me once more. For the safety of my family, I decided to relocate to Harare since I was married. However, the situation in Harare became even worse when my friends were kidnapped and killed. I was lucky to survive after being struck at the back of the head with an axe.
This incident rendered me bedridden for months. I decided to flee once more, this time to South Africa, in the hope that things would improve,” Mutsambiri said.
“Life was difficult because I had left my wife and children in the care of my in-laws. After the Mugabe Coup in 2017, I decided to return home. I remained an active member of the MDC-T, which has since changed its name to the CCC and is now led by Nelson Chamisa.
Furthermore, before my arrival in the United States of America I was attacked again, members of the ruling party broke into my house they physically assaulted me with a cutlass. My wife witnessed this ugly attack by four men wearing Zanu PF t-shirts and was rendered unconscious.
On March 28, 2022, my brother was attacked again during the ongoing presidential campaign by the opposition party (CCC). Also, during this attack, my wife who is also a member of CCC was stampeded and almost lost her life to a member of Zanu-PF. It hurts me that after many years, I still don’t have a safe place for myself and my family. It is based on the above threats and others that I seek Asylum from the Government of the United States of America,” the opposition activist said.
To Mutsambiri returning home to face Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration is an insurmountable task.
The so called new dispensation is baying for Mutsambiri’s blood.
By- Zanu PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ignored the funeral of Sarah Mahoka.
Mahoka died last week near Karoi in a road accident.
She was a former Zanu PF Women’s League national treasurer and former Hurungwe East legislator.
Mahoka was also pivotal during the last days of President Mugabe’s rule and led a faction that wanted Grace Mugabe to take over power from her husband.
Sources say Mahoka was travelling towards Karoi while the haulage truck was facing Harare.
Mahoka was recalled from Parliament by Zanu PF in 2017. She contested in July 2018 elections as part of the National Patriotic Front and lost the polls.
Norton legislator Temba Mliswa who worked with Mahoka said it was sad to hear that Mahoka had passed away.
Mliswa bemoaned how she won’t be recognised for all her hard work. He said Mahoka deserved a Provincial Hero status for her work.
By A Correspondent| Government is moving forward with plans to resuscitate ZISCO Steel after identifying a local mining giant Kuvimba Mining House to operationalize the multi-million-dollar Redcliff plant which has been lying idle for years now.
Presenting the Post cabinet decision matrix in Harare Tuesday, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes Jorum Gumbo said nine prospective investors had shown interest with the cabinet settling for Kuvimba Mining House.
“Initially, nine prospective investors expressed interest, and after a review by the Executive Management team, four bidders were shortlisted.
“Following further, due diligence, the bidders were reduced to three. Out of the three, Kuvimba Mining House was recommended. Accordingly, Cabinet approved that Kuvimba Mining House be engaged as the Investment partner for the resuscitation of ZISCO Steel,” said Gumbo.
Government is the largest shareholder in Kuvimba with 65 percent stake while private investors have 35 percent.
A 2006 parliamentary inquiry established that the Redcliff plant was brought to its knees by grand looting by government ministers and other senior officials.
Previous efforts to revive the massive steel manufacturer, which at its peak employed more than 5 000 people, have yielded no fruit, mainly on account of bureaucratic wrangling and allegations of corruption.
In 2020, a US$1 billion deal with Chinese company Guangzhou R&FA to resuscitate Zisco collapsed after the government changed its shareholding offer to the company’s president, Zhang Li.
The Chinese billionaire, a real estate mogul, had been willing to start work on the collapsed steel giant and progress had already been made in procuring some equipment.
In January 2018, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promised that Ziscosteel and Shabani Mashaba Mines would begin operations within his first 100 days.
By- Zimbabwe’s former First Lady was spotted at the funeral of her close ally, Sarah Mahoka.
Mahoka died last week near Karoi in a road accident.
She was a former Zanu PF Women’s League national treasurer and former Hurungwe East legislator.
Mahoka was also pivotal during the last days of President Mugabe’s rule and led a faction that wanted Grace Mugabe to take over power from her husband.
posting on his Twitter account, renowned journalist, Stanley Gama wrote:
Loyalty to the end. Happening now: Former First Lady Grace Mugabe is attending the funeral of her close ally Sarah Mahoka. Grace has rarely been seen in public since her husband President Robert Mugabe died in 2019. Mahoka died in a car accident last week.
It is understood that she was involved in a head-on collision with a haulage truck that encroached onto her lane.
Sources say Mahoka was travelling towards Karoi while the haulage truck was facing Harare.
Mahoka was recalled from Parliament by Zanu PF in 2017. She contested in July 2018 elections as part of the National Patriotic Front and lost the polls.
Norton legislator Temba Mliswa who worked with Mahoka said it was sad to hear that Mahoka had passed away.
Mliswa bemoaned how she won’t be recognised for all her hard work. He said Mahoka deserved a Provincial Hero status for her work.
By-Former first lady, Grace Mugabe has insisted that she buried her husband, Robert Mugabe, according to his wishes and instructions.
She made the remarks while speaking at the burial of Sarah Mahoka who died in a car accident last week following a head-on collision in Karoi.
This comes after a Zvimba traditional court last year ruled that Grace violated cultural and traditional rites by burying Mugabe at his homestead in Zvimba.
Grace did not attend the court and Chief Zvimba found her guilty of the charges and ordered her to pay a fine of 5 cows and a goat.
The traditional leader, born Stanley Mhondoro, also ordered that former President Robert Mugabe’s body should be exhumed and reburied at the National Heroes Acre in the capital. Zim Morning Post quotes Grace as saying:
I buried my husband according to the instructions he left me, those who want to exhume him, go ahead, we are watching.
It’s a ruling against a widow, and the widow has nothing to do with the burying of her husband … This judgment is irrelevant if you were to ask me because in any case, Chief Zvimba does not preside over cases here.
They obviously need a court order in order to exercise the judgment, in which case we will oppose that court order in the courts, and they must be rest assured the road that they have taken is the wrong route.
Leo also insisted that Chief Zvimba was the one who had violated cultural and traditional norms as the case should have gone to the kraal head first. He added:
This is far from over. We are ready to take him on.
Patrick Zhuwao, one of Mugabe’s nephews, previously claimed that President Emmerson Mnangagwa was behind the push to have Mugabe’s remains exhumed saying he wants a mystical sceptre he was allegedly buried with.
It is with great sadness that we report of the death of former Dynamos youth player Donald Malajila, brother to former Warriors star Cuthbert.
Donald was shot dead in Cape Town, South Africa on Saturday at the age of 29.
A close friend of his confirmed the sad development to Soccer24.
“Donny left home on Saturday but never returned. We started looking for him the next day, we saw his car parked on the edge of the road. It was locked but he wasn’t in it,” said the friend.
“We then made a report to the police. On Monday, we were told his body had been found, we went to the nearby mortuary and it was there. He had no form of identification on him, but we managed to identify his body” he added.
Donald’s death comes barely a week after former Warriors left back Charles Yohane was shot and killed in an apparent hijack in Soweto.
The Soccer24 family sends its heartfelt condolences to the Malajila family.- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
Zimbabwean midfielder Tawanda Maswanhise netted his eighth goal of the season in Leicester U23’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal U23 on Monday.
Maswanhise converted a 16th minute penalty to put his side ahead in the EPL2 clash.
The goal saw him scoring in his third successive game for the young Foxes.
The 19-year-old is a regular in the team, having started in sixteen out of eighteen appearances this season.
The performance comes at a time Maswanhise has been raising his profile at the club. He trained with the senior squad in the pre-season, and his involvement followed just weeks after he signed a new contract.
The attacker was also standout for the club’s under-18s in the previous season and caught the eye of coach Brendan Rodgers towards the end of the campaign. He made his debut appearance in the first-team squad in May in a league match against Manchester United.- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
Get vaccinated as soon as it’s your turn and follow local guidance on vaccination. Keep physical distance of at least 1 metre from others, even if they don’t appear to be sick. Avoid crowds and close contact.
Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings.
Clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately and clean hands regularly. If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, self-isolate until you recover.
Wear a mask properly To properly wear your mask:
Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth and chin. Clean your hands before you put your mask on, before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time. When you take off your mask, store it in a clean plastic bag, and every day either wash it if it’s a fabric mask or dispose of it in a trash bin if it’s a medical mask.
Don’t use masks with valves.
More about masks:
When and how to wear masks Questions and answers about children and masks Guidance for decision makers and health workers.
Make your environment safer The risks of getting COVID-19 are higher in crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected people spend long periods of time together in close proximity.
Outbreaks have been reported in places where people have gather, often in crowded indoor settings and where they talk loudly, shout, breathe heavily or sing such as restaurants, choir practices, fitness classes, nightclubs, offices and places of worship.
To make your environment as safe as possible:
Avoid the 3Cs: spaces that are closed, crowded or involve close contact. Meet people outside. Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, particularly if indoor spaces are small and without outdoor air coming in.
If you can’t avoid crowded or indoor settings, take these precautions: Open a window to increase the amount of natural ventilation when indoors.
Source: World Health Organization Inserted by Zimbabwe Online Health Centre
Tinashe Sambiri|Douglas Togarasei Mwonzora’s world is collapsing around him.
At the weekend he was ditched by a senior MDC T official- alongside 30 members of the party.
Wlbert Mutero the former MDC T district chairperson in Highfield East has officially joined CCC.
He joined the Yellow Revolution with 30 people.
Mutero said: “We have joined President Chamisa’s party because of it’s popularity and capacity to dislodge Zanu PF and bring total transformation in Zimbabwe.”
“l left Mwonzora’s party because of its proximity to Zanu PF. There are lot of conflicts in MDC T and they have no solid structures across Zimbabwe.”
Zanu PF president Mnangagwa watched President Chamisa’s rally online
As President Mnangagwa responded to president Chamisa’s message with threats
As Mnangagwa snubs Chiwenga’s rally in Marondera as he follows Chamisa’s online.
22 February 2022
Wezhira Munya
On Saturday, Zanu PF president Mnangagwa and millions of Zimbabweans attended Citizens Coalition for Change star rally that was addressed by President Chamisa.
Zanu PF president confirmed that he watched President Chamisa’s rally when he addressed bused youth who attended Youth Day yesterday in Harare.
(I have attached video to this article with Zanu PF president Mnangagwa confessing on ZBC TV that he watched President Chamisa’s rally)
In responding to President Chamisa’s rally speech, President Mnangagwa said, “Ndakashaya kuti zvino nhai veduwe komai vake vanoti ndakaberekerei zvohi naChamisa nezuro kana tikasahwina maelections gore tinouya rinoita mheremhere, zvino wagona ukataura kuti unoita mheremhere takotogadziririra ehee”
In respond to Zanu PF president speech, President Chamisa on yesterday’s evening studio 7 news bulletin said, “Ndinoda kutenda vaED Mnangagwa nekuva mutsigiri nemuteveri mukuru webato redu uye muteveri wezvandinotaura….. asi havana kunzwa zvakanaka zvandakataura…. hatitenderi kuba mavhoti zvechisimba uye mutemo unotitendera kuratidzira kana tabirwa maelections. VaMnangagwa ngavauye tivadzidzise mutemo.”
(I have attached studio 7 news bulletin with president Chamisa’s response to ED)
The exchange of words between President Chamisa and President Mnangagwa show that the battle of by elections and 2023 harmonised elections is between these two.
2018 disputed elections is the root cause of the battle of supremacy that we are witnessing between Wamba and Gwena.
Both Wamba and Gwena got 2million votes each in 2018.
It is against this background, that Zanu PF and security forces are blocking President Chamisa’s rallies. In addition, President Chamisa’s supporters and candidates are being arrested across Zimbabwe . Zanu PF and security forces are doing this to instil fear and discourage CCC members from campaigning. But CCC members are stubborn and have resilience.
60 000 strong crowd that attended President Chamisa’s Saturday rally sent shock waves into Zanu PF camp.
Interestingly, President Mnangagwa did not follow his Zanu PF rally that was being addressed by VP Chiwenga in Marondera as he was busy following President Chamisa’s rally.
This shows that there are sharp differences in Zanu PF .
On the other hand, MDC T under Mwonzora is failing to attract 500 people at its rallies. MDC T is experiencing massive defections due to its unpopularity.
The popular and charismatic President Nelson Chamisa and Citizens Coalition For Change members will have two by elections rally in Midlands Province.
According to information posted on Facebook page by Citizens Coalition for Change spokesperson advocate Fadzai Mahere , President Chamisa will address huge crowds in Gokwe this coming Saturday and Kwekwe on Sunday.
Advocate Mahere writes, “#YellowSunday. Thank you ALL for your overwhelming support at our Harare Province by-election campaign launch rally! …. This weekend , we head to Gokwe (Sat) & Kwekwe (sun)! Details to follow”.
Gokwe and Kwekwe have vaccancies for members of Parliament after Matendadanda of Zanu PF was demoted as national commissar and redeployed to be an ambassador in Mozambique and Kwekwe has a vaccant due to death of hon. Matambanadzo.
In Kwekwe , President Chamisa’s party is being represented by youthful and female candidate Judith Mubaiwa. Judith Mubaiwa is popular in Kwekwe. Zanu PF have resorted to intimidation few days ago, Zanu PF stole Judith Mubaiwa’s campaign and it was later recovered.
Kwekwe and Gokwe rallies will prove that President Chamisa and Citizens Coalition for Change party are popular beyond Harare.
In Harare on Sunday, President Chamisa addressed 60 000 strong supporters.
Tinashe Sambiri|Douglas Togarasei Mwonzora’s world is collapsing around him.
At the weekend he was ditched by a senior MDC T official- alongside 30 members of the party.
Wlbert Mutero the former MDC T district chairperson in Highfield East has officially joined CCC.
He joined the Yellow Revolution with 30 people.
Mutero said: “We have joined President Chamisa’s party because of it’s popularity and capacity to dislodge Zanu PF and bring total transformation in Zimbabwe.”
“l left Mwonzora’s party because of its proximity to Zanu PF. There are lot of conflicts in MDC T and they have no solid structures across Zimbabwe.”
Tinashe Sambiri|Zanu PF chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has stunned all and sundry after claiming her party will not concede defeat in the coming polls.
Muchinguri- Kashiri further claimed that the pen cannot change the current political scenario.
The Zanu PF chairperson accused the opposition of calling for sanctions on Harare.
Analysts Muchinguri-Kashiri’s utterances indicate Zanu PF has been shaken by President Nelson Chamisa’s rally.
She wrote on Twitter: “Wapwere weZimbabwe wango ziwa the party to vote for. Zimbabwe yaka uya ngehondo saka haizo endaba ngeball point pen!!
The regime change agenda will not be tolerated. This is a threat to our sovereignty. Western sponsored imperialist backed CCC will never rule this country. Never!
Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change leader President Nelson Chamisa has declared that Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa will not be given space to steal the people’s victory in the 2023 Presidential Election.
President Chamisa made the remarks at Zimbabwe Grounds on Sunday.
President Chamisa is confident CCC will defeat Zanu PF in both rural and urban areas.
“Don’t worry about the countryside. Rural areas are now centers of transformation and change. I toured our rural communities and the regime almost had me killed after seeing the response of the citizens there. Yellow has been embraced everywhere.
Some citizens say voting is pointless because they’ll be rigging. The biggest rigging is not registering to vote. If the farm is big enough, the baboon won’t steal all the yield. We need to win with a huge margin that will overwhelm ZEC’s rigging plans.”
President Chamisa added: “We’ve commissioned a team of experts to work on the voters roll. We’ve even been getting warnings from some in government, to pay attention to it. Yellow is everywhere. We’ve unearthed irregularities & now they are declining their own voters roll.
We gather here to also declare that never again shall elections be rigged in Zimbabwe. We need to give dignity to our security officers. Our war veterans helped liberate us. In my days in Parliament, I always stood for warvets & we represented them for free, under our law firm. Many died without enjoying the independence they fought for.”
According to President Chamisa, teachers have a constitutional right to demand decent living conditions.
“Our government will honour teachers. They are the foundation & guardians of the destiny of any nation. They are the campus of civilisation. Without teachers there are no politicians, cooks nor builders. They must be respected & given back their dignity.
Chamisa is not the poverty affecting our civil servants. Teachers have a right to demand a better salary and shouldn’t succumb to threats. Under our government, we will revert back to the salaries and benefits previously enjoyed by our civil servants.
In 2003, Mudede did the same in Kuwadzana & produced a VR with over 8k voters. We went to court to have the VR produced during 1st 20 minutes & that’s how we exposed them. We are warning ZEC to remove fake names on the VR & return them where they belong.”
Tinashe Sambiri|Zanu PF chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has stunned all and sundry after claiming her party will not concede defeat in the coming polls.
Muchinguri- Kashiri further claimed that the pen cannot change the current political scenario.
The Zanu PF chairperson accused the opposition of calling for sanctions on Harare.
Analysts Muchinguri-Kashiri’s utterances indicate Zanu PF has been shaken by President Nelson Chamisa’s rally.
She wrote on Twitter: “Wapwere weZimbabwe wango ziwa the party to vote for. Zimbabwe yaka uya ngehondo saka haizo endaba ngeball point pen!!
The regime change agenda will not be tolerated. This is a threat to our sovereignty. Western sponsored imperialist backed CCC will never rule this country. Never!
Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change leader President Nelson Chamisa has declared that Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa will not be given space to steal the people’s victory in the 2023 Presidential Election.
President Chamisa made the remarks at Zimbabwe Grounds on Sunday.
President Chamisa is confident CCC will defeat Zanu PF in both rural and urban areas.
“Don’t worry about the countryside. Rural areas are now centers of transformation and change. I toured our rural communities and the regime almost had me killed after seeing the response of the citizens there. Yellow has been embraced everywhere.
Some citizens say voting is pointless because they’ll be rigging. The biggest rigging is not registering to vote. If the farm is big enough, the baboon won’t steal all the yield. We need to win with a huge margin that will overwhelm ZEC’s rigging plans.”
President Chamisa added: “We’ve commissioned a team of experts to work on the voters roll. We’ve even been getting warnings from some in government, to pay attention to it. Yellow is everywhere. We’ve unearthed irregularities & now they are declining their own voters roll.
We gather here to also declare that never again shall elections be rigged in Zimbabwe. We need to give dignity to our security officers. Our war veterans helped liberate us. In my days in Parliament, I always stood for warvets & we represented them for free, under our law firm. Many died without enjoying the independence they fought for.”
According to President Chamisa, teachers have a constitutional right to demand decent living conditions.
“Our government will honour teachers. They are the foundation & guardians of the destiny of any nation. They are the campus of civilisation. Without teachers there are no politicians, cooks nor builders. They must be respected & given back their dignity.
Chamisa is not the poverty affecting our civil servants. Teachers have a right to demand a better salary and shouldn’t succumb to threats. Under our government, we will revert back to the salaries and benefits previously enjoyed by our civil servants.
In 2003, Mudede did the same in Kuwadzana & produced a VR with over 8k voters. We went to court to have the VR produced during 1st 20 minutes & that’s how we exposed them. We are warning ZEC to remove fake names on the VR & return them where they belong.”
By A Correspondent- Zhombe Headman Nduku has shocked villagers after demanding $10 USD from accused persons as fees to appear before his court.
Rural folks in Zhombe are complaining that they do not have access to the foreign currency which the headman is demanding.
Villagers who spoke to this reporter have raised their concerns that the headman is abusing them by demanding court appearance fees in US dollars when he knows that the people in Zhombe do not have access to foreign currency.
By A Correspondent- Thokozani Khupe led MDC-T Spokesperson Ntando Ndlovu says if the former Deputy Prime Minister joins the Nelson Chamisa led Citizens for Change Coalition (CCC) it is the citizens who will decide which position she deserves to occupy.
Ndlovu was speaking after Chamisa told a rally in Harare on Sunday that, “We know there are others who once left us and want to rejoin, we will direct that they seat at the back of this bus upon readmission.”
Said Ndlovu,
“If the opposition political parties are organizing themselves under a new movement, it, therefore, follows that in a party there are no historical leadership positions that are carried forward so to speak.
The stockholders of the new movement; which are the people are the ones who will then be in a position to determine who the leaders are and the trajectory that the movement will take.”
Chamisa had told his supporters that all the current leaders of CCC are caretakers and that substantive leaders will be elected by the people.
“Those currently in leadership positions are caretakers. This is a new political party which is a result of my tours in the rural areas. You advised that I start a new party and I have done that. Yes we have a history, we have a legacy but this is not re-branding, it is brand new hence our new colours, logo and slogans.” He told his supporters.
Asked on whether a united opposition can defeat ZANU PF, Ndlovu said:
“It’s clear as the sun rising from the east to the west that the end is nigh for the current Zanu PF regime. Whether one wants to analyse based on scientific evidence or the general sentiment on the ground, the ZANU PF government has become so unpopular due to serious governance failures which have led to high unemployment, corruption, de industrialization, collapse of infrastructure etc.
“These are the issues that have made the ground ripe for change. The future of opposition is therefore bright only if they organise themselves and vote as one united block similar to what the Zambian opposition did.”
Chamisa and Khupe fell out in 2018 soon after the death of MDC founding president Morgan Tsvangirai as they brawled over who should be the successor.
By A Correspondent- Former first lady, Grace Mugabe has insisted that she buried her husband, Robert Mugabe, according to his wishes and instructions.
She made the remarks while speaking at the burial of Sarah Mahoka who died in a car accident last week following a head-on collision.
This comes after a Zvimba traditional court last year ruled that Grace violated cultural and traditional rites by burying Mugabe at his homestead in Zvimba.
Grace did not attend the court and Chief Zvimba found her guilty of the charges and ordered her to pay a fine of 5 cows and a goat.
The traditional leader, born Stanley Mhondoro, also ordered that former President Robert Mugabe’s body should be exhumed and reburied at the National Heroes Acre in the capital. Zim Morning Post quotes Grace as saying:
I buried my husband according to the instructions he left me, those who want to exhume him, go ahead, we are watching.
It’s a ruling against a widow, and the widow has nothing to do with the burying of her husband … This judgment is irrelevant if you were to ask me because in any case, Chief Zvimba does not preside over cases here.
They obviously need a court order in order to exercise the judgment, in which case we will oppose that court order in the courts, and they must be rest assured the road that they have taken is the wrong route.
Leo also insisted that Chief Zvimba was the one who had violated cultural and traditional norms as the case should have gone to the kraal head first.
He added:
This is far from over. We are ready to take him on.
Patrick Zhuwao, one of Mugabe’s nephews, previously claimed that President Emmerson Mnangagwa was behind the push to have Mugabe’s remains exhumed saying he wants a mystical sceptre he was allegedly buried with.
By A Correspondent- Thokozani Khupe led MDC-T Spokesperson Ntando Ndlovu says if the former Deputy Prime Minister joins the Nelson Chamisa led Citizens for Change Coalition (CCC) it is the citizens who will decide which position she deserves to occupy.
Ndlovu was speaking after Chamisa told a rally in Harare on Sunday that, “We know there are others who once left us and want to rejoin, we will direct that they seat at the back of this bus upon readmission.”
Said Ndlovu, “If the opposition political parties are organizing themselves under a new movement, it, therefore, follows that in a party there are no historical leadership positions that are carried forward so to speak. The stockholders of the new movement; which are the people are the ones who will then be in a position to determine who the leaders are and the trajectory that the movement will take.”
Chamisa had told his supporters that all the current leaders of CCC are caretakers and that substantive leaders will be elected by the people.
“Those currently in leadership positions are caretakers. This is a new political party which is a result of my tours in the rural areas. You advised that I start a new party and I have done that. Yes we have a history, we have a legacy but this is not re-branding, it is brand new hence our new colours, logo and slogans.” He told his supporters.
Asked on whether a united opposition can defeat ZANU PF, Ndlovu said, “It’s clear as the sun rising from the east to the west that the end is nigh for the current Zanu PF regime. Whether one wants to analyse based on scientific evidence or the general sentiment on the ground, the ZANU PF government has become so unpopular due to serious governance failures which have led to high unemployment, corruption, de industrialization, collapse of infrastructure etc.
“These are the issues that have made the ground ripe for change. The future of opposition is therefore bright only if they organise themselves and vote as one united block similar to what the Zambian opposition did.”
Chamisa and Khupe fell out in 2018 soon after the death of MDC founding president Morgan Tsvangirai as they brawled over who should be the successor.
By A Correspondent- University of Zimbabwe (UZ) employees downed tools on Monday citing incapacitation.
In a memorandum seen dated February 17, 2022, which was addressed to vice-chancellor
Paul Mapfumo by the Association of University Teachers (AUT-UZ), the University Technicians Association (UTA-UZ), the workers’ committee said the continuous deterioration of the economy had rendered their salaries worthless, thereby triggering incapacitation.
The workers’ representatives also revealed that the lowest paid worker at the university earned at least $21 000.
Furthermore, the UZ workers said they could no longer afford transport as well as lunch, making it difficult for them to provide their services. The memo read:
The lowest-paid employee at the university earns a net wage of $21 000. Meanwhile, according to ZimStat [Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency] data published in December 2021, the total consumption poverty line (TCPL) based on the cheapest food and non-food basket was $8 009 per person per month or $48 054 per month for a family of six.
According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), a family of six needed $72 967 for basic expenses during the same period.
When schools opened early this month, school fees, the prices of stationery, school wear, fuel/transport fares, utilities and premiums for funeral policies, data bundles, council rates, accommodation and others increased.
This further diminished the value of our wages. Consequently, our members are severely incapacitated. That is most UZ employees cannot meet their obligations from one payday to the next. As we speak, employees cannot afford transport (fuel or bus fares) to come to work daily. In addition, many skip lunch while at work.
The workers said despite their desire to contribute towards the realisation of Education 5.0, they were unable to report for work because of incapacitation.
Efforts to get a comment from Higher and Tertiary Education minister Amon Murwira were fruitless.
By A Correspondent- The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said the government has backed down on the suspension of all teachers who went on strike when schools resumed on 7 February. Teachers say the government’s failure or refusal thereof, to pay them US$540 they were being paid prior to October 2028 rendered them incapacitated to perform their duties.
We present the full text of the PTUZ statement:
Which Way Forward?: Dilemma of Teachers’ Struggle
21 February 2022
The Great Question of the Day preoccupying teachers and general populace is “what would happen in schools tomorrow?” Will teachers report for work? Will they teach? It was within this framework that Ptuz leadership sought guidance from its PTUZ members following govt ultimatum that all teachers should report for work by tomorrow. The collated evidence from the ten provinces revealed that:
The major reason behind our incapacitation struggle, viz, US$540, has not been addressed.
Our initial momentum and unity in diversity across the teacher unions divide has been riddled following some teacher unions’ romance with govt and complicity in incapacitating teachers.
that as much as solidarity from other workers in Zimbabwe was welcome it fell far short where it matters most, viz, solidarity in action that could entice govt to address the plight of all workers in Zimbabwe.
Govt has been embarassed by teachers and was forced to back down on suspension of all teachers, but its potential to decimate divided educators remains realistic.
All provinces urged the Union to allow teachers to report for work between 22 and 25 February in order to continue fighting for US$540 without fallen heroes.
Collated evidence from provinces revealed that the best protection from the employer is unity of purpose in diversity and therefore teachers must return to our terrain of conflict, viz, schools to mobilise some fighters that have demobilized, so as to continue fighting for US$540.
Members also urged PTUZ leadership to continue engaging teacher union leaders inside and outside FOZEU, parliament, Education International and ILO over starvation wages received by teachers.
Members expressed that there will never be any meaningful teaching and learning in schools until govt pays US$540.
In light of the foregoing PTUZ leadership therefore reluctantly encourages teachers to:
report for work for a limited number of days per week until we are capacitated by the govt.
mobilise at school level in order to continue with the incapacitation struggle.
remain ready for a fresh full-throttle incapacitation struggle based on mobilisation levels in schools.
notify school heads in advance the date they will be reporting for work if they are not able to report for work by 22 February 2022.
to get organised and be ready to take party in a Petition March to Parliament within the next 14 days with our full demands.
We also urge the govt to address the quandary of incapacitation that teachers are facing as a matter of urgency. We reiterate to govt that given the levels of high incapacitation, many teachers may fail to report for work by 22 February and such teachers must never be deemed to have resigned. At any rate, govt can only cease salary for a teacher whose whereabouts are not known after 14 continuous working days. Such continuous working days lapse on 25 February. The govt has no locus standi to cease salaries of incapacitated teachers whose whereabouts are known. At law, only teachers that are absent from work for 30 continuous days can be deemed to have resigned.
Teachers and pupils are the best assets that Zimbabwe must treat well and with dignity. Govt arrogance and failure to address teachers’ challenges remain puzzling. As teachers, we must once again unite as brothers and sisters against incapacitation or else we will die as fools.
Chief Chilonga was involved in an accident here at Chilonga Bridge at 4pm on Monday when his pickup truck sunk while attempting to cross this River, according to a local report. The chief survived but one person was confirmed dead and 3 others are missing – @NyikoWakaChauk3pic.twitter.com/lszjJvIGqG
This happened around 16hrs on Monday at Chilonga crossing.
Chief Chilonga Tiyani failed an attempt to cross the river driving his D4D. It’s reported by eyewitneses that he tried to cross the small bridge but in the middle of the river is where his car was swept by heavy water and went deep down.
1 person was confirmed dead on the scene and other bodies of 3 are still to be found. The driver, Chief Chilonga survived after managing to swim out from the deep.
At the time of the ZimEye interview, villagers were still stuck the scene searching for the remaining bodies.
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition for a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe at all levels.
The EU has reviewed its restrictive measures in respect of Zimbabwe and in this context recalls the Council Conclusions of 17 February 2020 as well as the Declaration by the Ugh Representative on behalf of the EU of 19 February 2021.
Since then, the situation in terms of respect for human rights has not improved in Zinbabwe.
Intimidation of the political opposition and other government critics has continued to restrict the democratic and civic space. which is under threat of shrinking further, through the Data Protection Act and ongoing legislative processes such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged so-called “Patriotic Act”.
The EU is concerned about these developments.
Perpetrators of human rights violations should be swiftly brought to justice to end impunity.
The recommendations of the Motlante Commission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and need to be inplemented as a matter of priority and urgency.
It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In this light, the EU recalls the purpose of its restrictive measures. which is to encourage a demonstrable, genuine, and long-term commitment by the Zimbabwean authorities to respect and uphold human rights and the rule of law.
The EU has decided to renew its restnctive measures, while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals.
The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries. remain in place taking into account the situation in Zirribatme, as well as the continuing need to investigate the role of security forces in human rights abuses.
The EU will continue to closely follow developments, with a particular attention to the human rights situation. and recalls its readiness to review and adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The measures in place are targeted and very limited. therefore they do not affect the people of Zimbabwe. its economy. foreign direct investments. or trade. Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU. Mile negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement.
There is significant potential in terms of investments and jobs opportunities, if structural bottlenecks were to be addressed, and political and economic reforms. including enhancing trust in the rule of law, tackling corruption and respect for human rights, are implemented.
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms. based on tangible commitments made by the Government of Zimbabwe.
The EU will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe focusing on three priority areas as aligned with the Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy: (i) good governance and citizens’ rights: (ii) green economic growth and, (iii) social recovery and human development.
The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP26 The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, in case of need
The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recorrmendations of the 2018 EU Election Observation Mission.
The EU is preparing for a follow up mission.
Moreover, the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.
As an integral element of Its engagement with Zimbabwe, the EU looks forward to have a political dialogue in Harare as a rrratter of priority and notes the readiness of both sides to organize this dialogue in the near future.
The political dialogue will provide an opportunity for regular and open discussions, on many subjects including on economy and human rights. The political dialogue is key in fostering mutual understanding and constructive cooperation. paving the way for progress in the relations.
Analyst Discent Collins Bajila has written in trying to explain the viral picture of CCC VP Welshman Ncube, MDC renegade Thokozani Khupe, and democracy heavyweight, Abednico Bhebhe. The photograph became a major irritation in the community amid rising belief that it means Khupe has been welcomed back to the same party she worked to destroy just a few months ago. Bajila tries to explain that it is just what it is, a mere picture, but one that carries 2 decades of history concerning the three individuals. Says Bajila:
Bhebhe, Khupe and Welshman Mcube
I love history and I use it to analyse the current.
Let us go back a little bit. In 2008, the Makokoba seat was hotly contested. Khuphe triumphed over Ncube. It was a resounding victory.
That same year, Bhebhe retained his Nkayi seat under a party where Ncube was SG.
In 2009, Ncube wrote the letter that recalled Bhebhe from Parliament after a long bit unsuccessful disciplinary route. It was a sad chapter for Bhebhe.
In 2020, Khuphe and Bhebhe almost contested one another, alongside Mwonzora, for the MDCT Presidency. Bhebhe was unfortunately disqualified. It was bad.
Now hear is a photo of these 3 together. What lessons should I learn from hear as an activist?
Tinashe Sambiri|Former Zanu PF hardman Godfrey Tsenengamu has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa has nothing new to offer to the nation.
Speaking to thousands of Citizens’ Coalition For Change supporters at Zimbabwe Grounds on Sunday, Tsenengamu described President Nelson Chamisa as the real deal in terms of delivering real change.
According Tsenengamu, Mr Mnangagwa is worse than his former boss Robert Mugabe.
“You see the one you call garwe( Mnangagwa) knows me personally. We thought he was for change when we removed Mugabe.
We thought Mugabe was the problem yet the old man had lost grip.
He was no longer in a position to control his men.
His men are now tormenting us. You think Mnangagwa can perform miracles – that’s impossible,” said Tsenengamu to a thunderous applause.
The late Movement for Democratic Change President Morgan Tsvangirai’s son Richard also attended the Citizens’ Coalition For Change rally.
He said :”People are suffering. We are witnessing untold suffering of citizens in the country.
My message is clear, President Chamisa is the hope of the nation,” said Richard Tsvangirai.
A Harare home seeker has dragged a housing and property development firm to court after it allegedly defrauded him of money he had paid to it for the attainment of a stand.
Courage Mateta paid about US$3 000 to Enhancing Mortgaging and Housing Company (EMH) in November 2018 after being assured that the payment was a guarantee that he would be allocated a residential stand.
However the firm did not uphold its end of the agreement by failing to show him the portion of land he had paid to date.
According to his lawyers at Takaindisa Law Chambers, the company had promised to show him the stand in April 2019 only to keep postponing the date they would show him his stand leading him to report the matter at Milton Park police station under RRB 4963248.
“When April arrived the company said it would show him in August, when August came the company said it would show him in the following month but nothing has materialized up until Courage has decided to claim his money back,” they said.
Mateta claims that in the past two years executives at EMH have been dilly-dallying each time he tried to recover his money prompting him to approach lawyers in December last for legal assistance.
The lawyers are said to have questioned EMH through a letter and the firm took Mateta to an unpegged bushy area which was neither developed, a deviance from the agreement he had signed up with them.
All his efforts to recover his money have been in vain thereby forcing him to take the legal route for redress. Mateta is not the only home seeker who has fallen victim to such malpractices.
Over the years land barons have duped desperate home seekers of various amounts of money by selling them State land meant for other developments.
By A Correspondent | On the 2nd March there is a deportation flight leaving UK for Zimbabwe. It will land in Harare on the 3rd March 2022, ZimEye reveals.
The chartered jumbo jet accommodates 150 people, though the number of deportees is set to be slightly lower.
The development follows a secret deal between the British Embassy in Harare and Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime entered into last year.
While the deportation is a joint operation to send back immigrants who have criminal records , concerns were flagged last year that also included are Zimbabweans who have not breached any (non immigration) laws.
The 2nd March deportation will for the first time include British Passport holders who have had their citizenship stripped because of crime, an impeccable source told ZimEye, without providing further detail.
The UK govt has recently drafted changes to its citizenship law so that it can without consultation revoke citizenship using the public interest criteria. Ironically, this comes at a time when Britain has begun giving Zimbabweans papers to work as carers.
At the time of writing, ZimEye had received reports of at least 6 Zimbabweans who at the time of writing had been taken into detention. – More follows….
Citizens for Coalition Change (CCC) vice president Welshman Ncube has been diagnosed with a kidney infection.
This was revealed by Discent Bajila is a National Executive Committee member of the MDC Alliance Youth Assembly.
Said Bajila, “I paid a courtesy visit on leader @Welshman_Ncube this morning. He has been diagnosed with a kidney infection and we agreed that he continues resting at home as per doctor’s prescription. Let us remember him in our prayers.”
Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec) markers yesterday downed tools in dispute over allowances, which could delay the release of the 2021 Ordinary and Advanced Level results.
The teachers said Zimsec had failed to honour its pledge to pay them US$25 per day for those staying out of residence and US$12 per day for those in residence.
Instead, they received $19 000 and $9 500 for the 28 days of marking respectively, prompting a walkout.
In Manicaland province, a leaked video showed Zimsec officials being booed by disgruntled teachers at Marymount Teachers College who were refusing to mark the A-Level Geography paper before they were paid the outstanding allowances.
“We are aware that we owe you. The other group is owed 50%, while the first phase is owed 75%, but be assured that by the end of this week, we will make sure that everything is settled,” a Zimsec official in Manicaland could be heard telling the teachers.
At Hillside Teachers College in Bulawayo, teachers marking the O-Level History paper downed tools on Friday last week.
This was confirmed yesterday by Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou.
“Teachers are just asking for their share. They are not charity workers. The responsibility of running a country’s examination centre is not child’s play. Zimsec must stop forthwith treating teachers who are examiners as if they are of no account. We are aware that examiners started boycotting marking examinations last week on Friday, and that the boycott is continuing. Zimsec must urgently resolve the quandary that teachers are facing or else face the wrath of teachers,” he said.
“Teachers, who checked in for marking as far back as February 9, have not been paid their T&S [travel and subsistence] allowances. It is unfortunate that markers are not in residential accommodation. We have also received reports of examiners becoming stressed and collapsing or dying because of Zimsec ill-treatment.”
In Gweru, police had to be called in following a stand-off between Zimsec officials and teachers that were marking the O-Level Heritage Studies (History) papers at the Midlands State University.
PTUZ secretary-general Raymond Majongwe claimed that three markers were arrested in Gweru.
“This is criminalisation of people who have genuine grievances that must be taken care of. It appears that Zimsec and the government are conniving to get slave labour, and they must separate between crime and genuine cases. Police have arrested two male markers and one female marker and we are calling for their release. Otherwise we will call for everybody to down their tools,” he said.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that there was a disagreement between the markers and Zimsec.
“Police were only called in to ensure that law and order prevailed. No one was assaulted or forced to do what they did not want to do,” Nyathi said.
He said after negotiations, 50 markers went back into the marking room while 150 who were mingling outside were asked to either leave the campus or go back to their duties.
They later rejoined their counterparts.
Nyathi said he was not aware of any markers who were arrested.
Primary and Secondary Education ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro said he could not comment as it was a Zimsec issue.
Zimsec spokesperson Nicholette Dhlamini said: “I have confirmed with teachers at Hillside and other areas, there is no strike. All teachers are marking.”
University of Zimbabwe (UZ) employees downed tools yesterday citing incapacitation.
This follows a declaration of incapacitation by teachers since schools opened on February 7 as they demanded that government should restore their salaries to the pre-October 2018 cap of at least US$540.
In a memorandum seen by NewsDay dated February 17, 2022, which was addressed to vice-chancellor Paul Mapfumo by Association of University Teachers (AUT-UZ), the University Technicians Association (UTA-UZ), the workers’ committee said continuous deterioration of the economy had rendered their salaries worthless, thereby triggering incapacitation.
The workers’ representatives also revealed that the lowest paid worker at the university earned at least $21 000.
Furthermore, the UZ workers said they could no longer afford transport as well as lunch, making it difficult for them to provide their services.
“The lowest-paid employee at the university earns a net wage of $21 000. Meanwhile, according to ZimStat [Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency] data published in December 2021, the total consumption poverty line (TCPL) based on the cheapest food and non-food basket was $8 009 per person per month or $48 054 per month for a family of six. According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), a family of six needed $72 967 for basic expenses during the same period,” the memo read.
“When schools opened early this month, school fees, the prices of stationery, school wear, fuel/transport fares, utilities and premiums for funeral policies, data bundles, council rates, accommodation and others increased. This further diminished the value of our wages. Consequently, our members are severely incapacitated. That is most UZ employees cannot meet their obligations from one payday to the next. As we speak, employees cannot afford transport (fuel or bus fares) to come to work daily. In addition, many skip lunch while at work.”
The workers said they were unable to report for work because of incapacitation.
“As we stated at the works council meeting, UZ employees are willing and ready to contribute towards the realisation of Education 5.0. This is possible when employees’ welfare and rights are taken care of,” they said.
Efforts to get a comment from Higher and Tertiary Education minister Amon Murwira were fruitless.
THE Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa-Zimbabwe) has blasted the internet slowdown on Sunday at a time when the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa was holding its campaign rally, impacting media coverage of the event.
In a statement yesterday, Misa said slowing down internet bandwidth impacted the media negatively, preventing it from livestreaming the event.
A statement by international internet watchdog Netblocks confirmed a significant slowing of internet services for many users in Zimbabwe on Sunday as the CCC rally was taking place at the Zimbabwe Grounds in Highfield, Harare.
“The incident impacted multiple operators and has prevented livestreaming from the Yellow Sunday demonstration by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, which seeks to unseat the ruling Zanu-PF,” read the Netblocks statement.
Misa-Zimbabwe legal and information communication technology policy officer Nompilo Simanje told NewsDay that internet shutdown prevented citizens from exercising their right to communication.
“It is our position as Misa Zimbabwe that we are against any throttling of the internet, or any form of restrictions on the use of internet, especially during this period of electoral campaigns, with the by-elections coming on March 26, and the general elections in 2023,” she said.
“At this point, we want to reach out to all the players in the telecommunications industry, the regulator Potraz [Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe] as well as the Ministry of Information Communication Technology to ensure that during this season, people will have access to information and exercise their political rights.”
Simanje said internet connectivity should not be restricted so that people access information, which is their constitutional rights.
MDC-T and MDC Alliance leaders seeking to join the newly established opposition party, Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), will not automatically assume leadership positions but start as ordinary card carrying members, party president Nelson Chamisa has said.
Chamisa said this while addressing tens of thousands of his supporters who turned up for his party’s first by-election campaign launch at Zimbabwe Grounds, Highfield on Sunday.
He said they will only be elevated on merit.
His comments come amid reports former MDC-T president Thokozani Khupe, is seeking to join the bandwagon.
Khupe was recently recalled from parliament and dumped by MDC Alliance leader Douglas Mwonzora after a messy split between the two.
She recently held a meeting with CCC co-vice president Welshman Ncube in a development that saw some party officials claiming she is seeking a new political home.
Chamisa and Khupe fell out in 2018 soon after the death of MDC founding president Morgan Tsvangirai as they brawled over who should succeed.
“We know there are others who once left us and want to rejoin, we will direct that they seat at the back of this bus upon readmission,” Chamisa said.
“Some are asking about the leadership structure of the party, you will see it soon. We will be coming to you once we have our constitution in place then you can vote for the leaders you want,” said Chamisa.
“Those currently in leadership positions are caretakers. This is a new political party which is a result of my tours in the rural areas. You advised that I start a new party and I have done that. Yes we have a history, we have a legacy but this is not re-branding, it is brand new hence our new colours, logo and slogans.”
Motormouth Norton legislator, Temba Peter Mliswa has ripped into the ruling Zanu PF party for denying the late Hurungwe East legislator, Sarah Mahoka, a national hero status.
Mahoka (60) died in a car accident last Thursday and was laid to rest at her Mnandi farm on Monday.
Mliswa said having served the party in different capacities, Mahoka deserved a place at the provincial shrine.
Mliswa said: “She was in the Women’s League national executive as finance secretary, in the Zanu-PF central committee, she was a Member of Parliament and chairlady. It is one’s CV (curriculum vitae) that must speak, not that she sold out. Sarah never sold out.”
“Those were internal differences within the party, but sadly it’s up to those in power at that time how they take it. But were they also not part of a faction, so why hate another faction and say they had sold out? Give Ceasar what belongs to Ceasar, acknowledge what she did,” added Mliswa.
He described Mahoka as a hardworking politician who had the ability to mobilise supporters and an astute strategist who won many battles and lost some.
He acknowledged learning political strategies from the late Mahoka whom he said harboured no grudges.
Zanu-PF ostracised Mahoka and treated her unfairly, Mliswa said.
“When the Gamatox thing came in, they frustrated her. Like anybody else, people deal differently with frustration. She worked with the first lady as the golden girl. Who wouldn’t want to work with the first lady?” said Mliswa.
Mahoka created many enemies due to her proximity with Grace Mugabe.
Added Mliswa: “She was later accused of crimes she never committed, G40 and all that, its very sad. Sarah was frustrated at the end of the day. I always said she must come back.”
Mliswa said despite her fall out with Mnangagwa, Mahoka still hoped to mend relations and work for the good of the Second Republic.
“She would call me to say ‘how do we help our brother ED Mnangagwa, how can we help bhudhi?’ That was Sarah, still wanted to help at the end of the day. I didn’t want her to pass away with such a record when nobody is able to tell the truth about what she did for Zanu-PF,” said Mliswa.
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa-Zimbabwe) has blasted the internet slowdown on Sunday at a time when the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa was holding its campaign rally, impacting media coverage of the event.
In a statement yesterday, Misa said slowing down internet bandwidth impacted the media negatively, preventing it from livestreaming the event.
A statement by international internet watchdog Netblocks confirmed a significant slowing of internet services for many users in Zimbabwe on Sunday as the CCC rally was taking place at the Zimbabwe Grounds in Highfield, Harare.
“The incident impacted multiple operators and has prevented livestreaming from the Yellow Sunday demonstration by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, which seeks to unseat the ruling Zanu-PF,” read the Netblocks statement.
Misa-Zimbabwe legal and information communication technology policy officer Nompilo Simanje told NewsDay that internet shutdown prevented citizens from exercising their right to communication.
“It is our position as Misa Zimbabwe that we are against any throttling of the internet, or any form of restrictions on the use of internet, especially during this period of electoral campaigns, with the by-elections coming on March 26, and the general elections in 2023,” she said.
“At this point, we want to reach out to all the players in the telecommunications industry, the regulator Potraz [Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe] as well as the Ministry of Information Communication Technology to ensure that during this season, people will have access to information and exercise their political rights.”
Simanje said internet connectivity should not be restricted so that people access information, which is their constitutional rights.
It was in 1999 when Morgan Tsvangirai formed the Movement for Democratic Change a political party which many thought was going to remove Robert Mugabe and Zanu PF from power and bring the real change as far Zimbabwe governance is concerned. This article seeks to explore if the change which Tsvangirai meant in 1999 is the same change of the today’s Mwonzora and Chamisa’s political formations.
This is Morgan Tsvangirai “Bullet Proof” vehicle which has been at some rural police station for over 13 Years. More thinking and less excitement will help. pic.twitter.com/F4Vpq60BGX
The choice of the name the Movement of Democratic Change was not a mistake in 1999 but it was rather strategic . The key word in that name was the last word of the party name- “change”. Usually the word change has that magic of raising hope and some sort of relief. The word change is associated with something new and it attracts excitement and that feeling of likeability. The word change may mean new ways of doing things, a change of government , a change in laws , a change in how the economy is going to be managed and change in everything.In any way who doesn’t like change and who doesn’t like new things.
From the onset the MDC party name was quite appealing to both the young and the elites of the society. A lot of people thought a new dawn had come.
Soon after the formation of the MDC we saw the party winning a number of local and parliamentary seats with party’s climax in 2008 when the party managed to get the majority seats in parliament thereby strengthening the people’s hopes for a change of the Zimbabwean ragime. People thought “the Zimbabwe we want was on the horizon”
It is very unfortunate that the movement failed to gain state power on time and in 2018 Morgen Richard Tsvangirai the founder of the Movement for Democratic Change party died in a South African hospital almost eighteen years after the launching his political movement. Tsvangirai failed to bring any change he had hoped for when he formed his party in 1999.
Soon after the death of Tsvangirai we saw a vicious dog fight between Chamisa , Mudzuri and Khupe on who was to succeed Tsvangirai while Mwonzora was also scheming in the background. Chamisa through hook and crook muscled out his opponents and temporarily assumed leadership of the party and in 2018 he lost the presidential race to Mnangagwa.
While Khupe was enjoying the leadership of a splinter MDCT party , Chamisa and Mwonzora wrestled again within their faction for the party leadership which resulted in Chamisa losing the MDC party headquarters , assets , party name to Mwonzora but it looked like continued to command much support from the bulk of the MDC supporters.
In 2022 Chamisa announced that he had formed a new political party outfit with a new named Citizens Coalition for Change. The word “Change” was maintained by Chamisa in his new party name.
The biggest question which came into my mind was; Will the word change alone works some magic for Chamisa and Mwonzora and propel either of them to the state house in 2023?
Lets trace what the word change meant to Tsvangirai when he formed the MDC in 1999.Tsvangirai said Mugabe’s government does not respect the constitution and does not respect the courts. He maintained his government will usher in a new constitution and will respect the courts. In 2018 we saw Chamisa refusing to respect the constitutional court which ruled that Mnangagwa was the winner of the 2018 presidential election. Again in 2020 Chamisa refused to respect the Supreme Court which ruled that he was not legally the MDC president. He continued to call himself the MDC President and sometimes calling himself the president of the people until last month when he declared himself the President of his new CCC party( we also wonder who elected him president of the so-called CCC party). What is very clear is that nothing new will come from Chamisa in terms of respecting the constitution and the courts.
The other change which Tsvangirai claimed he will bring to Zimbabwe was that of unity and equality between the Zimbabwean tribes. He claimed that no tribe was going to be superior or inferior than others. However, in 2005 we saw Gibson Sibanda and Welshman Ncube breaking away from Tsvangirai. The 2005 MDC split was mainly on tribal differences. The Welshman Ncube faction felt the Shonas were claiming superiority over them ‘the Ndebeles’ yet the majority of the MDC support was coming from the Matebele regions(this fact is yet to be validated) and so, they thought of breaking away from the Tsvangirai’s Mashona faction was the right way to do so that they can do their own things the Matebeleland way. It was the same again in 2018 when Khupe decided to breakaway from the Shona Chamisa faction , and Khupe again did the same this year when she broke away from the Shona Mwonzora faction . There won’t be any tribal tolerance and unity which will ever come from the MDC/CCC formations.
Tsvangirai’s change in 1999 meant a change in governance. He meant that he will govern Zimbabwe in a better way. He meant local authorities will be better managed and no wonder Chamisa in 2018 started to talk of a ‘smart cities’ concept. It must be noted that the MDC/ CCC party has been presiding over the majority of Zimbabwe cities over the past twenty-two years. It is within those twenty years that Zimbabwe had ever seen the dirtiest cities ever since 1980.There is no refuse collection in the CBDs and in the residential area with Harare the capital city transformed to being the dirtiest city in Zimbabwe. It has been corruption after corruption scandal after scandal in the MDC /CCC run cities since 1999 yet if you visit their rallies there is much talk of Zanu PF corruption as if there is non within their tents. Some communities have gone for decades without running water.What a shame to the so called change advocates.
The change which Tsvangirai meant in 1999 was that of servant leadership. Leaders who are selfless, leaders who are not into politics for money but we have seen Chamisa accepting a bullet proof vehicle worth US$120 000 yet rural schools needs solar powered boreholes. Solar powered boreholes costs approximately US$4000 to install and with US$120 000 Chamisa could actually donate solar powered boreholes to 30 000 rural schools which can benefit thousands of rural school kids and teacher but he would find comfort in appropriating US$120 000 for his personal comfort. What a selfish leader!
The change which Tsvangirai meant in 1999 was that of creating powerful institutions as opposed to creating powerful individuals. Prior to 1999 Zimbabweans were used to slogans like “VaMugabe Chete Chete” but we got surprised in 2018 when the “VaMugabe Chete Chete” slogan was change to “Chamisa Chete Chete”. We then heard Chamisa supporters declaring that they don’t care about the MDC party but what they wanted was Chamisa. To them Chamisa was some form of deity , a god and indeed they ditched Tsvangirai’s party and formed their own party – The Chamisa Chete Chete party. Wotoona kuti hapana kwatiri kuenda zvakadhakwa zvese.
The MDC/CCC party is like a wolf in a sheep skin. It’s like a car indicating right when in actual fact it will turn left. We can liken the MDC/CCC party to the biblical hypocrites, they are pretenders and prophets of doom. What you see is not what you get.
It is fortunate to note that Zimbabweans are not stupid. Zimbabweans are clever enough that they won’t be tossed by every wind. Chamisa will yet again be shamed when Zimbabweans when they will once again vote for their tried and tested Zanu PF candidates during the March 26 by elections and the subsequent 2023 General Elections. Chamisa will remain the twitter and the Banana and Yellow Republic President.
Etiwel Mutero is an archivist and a political analyst. [email protected]
+263773614292
By-Zanu PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa and several senior party members on Sunday failed to attend a Zanu PF rally which his deputy Constantino Chiwenga addressed in Marondera.
Bussed supporters attended the Marondera rally.
Mnangagwa failed to attend the rally at Marondera’s Rudhaka Stadium despite being advertised as the star of the rally.
More than 100 buses were used to transport supporters to Marondera, despite the police barring the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party from doing the same at its Highfield rally, which took place on the same day as well.
Only politburo members from the province attended the rally. The few party bigwigs, who attended Chiwenga’s rally, were political commissar Mike Bimha, Patrick Chinamasa (secretary for finance) and Sydney Sekeramayi. In his address, Chiwenga said the government was trying to fix the black market which he said had destabilised the economy. “The black market has led to price hikes. We can’t afford our daily needs. It has also led to our local currency losing value. So the government is in the process of fixing this mess. Those found on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with accordingly,” Chiwenga said. “We have warned you and we are going to make sure that you won’t come out of jail if arrested. We are going to introduce hefty measures. So people, please help us catch those wrongdoers who are dragging us behind.” Recently, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe blamed the widening exchange rate premiums on the alternative market which it said was stoking inflation and price increases since July last year. Chiwenga said the country would not adopt the use foreign currency in the future. “Using other currencies brings nothing, but poverty. The use of United States dollars is devaluing our local currency. “The use of US dollars came after the Global Political Agreement (GPA) and the likes of (Tendai) Biti (former Finance minister) wanted to use foreign currency. We do not want foreign currency, we want our Zimbabwean dollar,” he said. Chiwenga, a former army general, reiterated that Zanu PF would continue to rule and that the nation will be developed without reliance on foreign aid. Marondera town had a massive facelift ahead of the rally, with roads rehabilitated, among other infrastructure in anticipation of Mnangagwa’s visit. Three constituencies and 10 wards are vacant due to deaths or recalls of MPs and councillors.
By-The EU has decided to renew its restrictive measures while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries, remain in place.
Below is the EU statement:
Zimbabwe: Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition for a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe at all levels.
The EU has reviewed its restrictive measures in respect of Zimbabwe and in this context recalls the Council Conclusions of 17 February 2020 as %/tell as the Declaration by the Ugh Representative on behalf of the EU of 19 February 2021.
Since then, the situation in term of respect for human rights has not improved in Zimbabwe. Intimidation of the political opposition and other government critics has continued to restrict the democratic and civic space. which is under threat of shrinking further through the Data Protection Act and ongoing legislative processes such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged so-called Patriotic Act”.
The EU is concerned about these developments Perpetrators of human rights violations should be swiftly brought to justice to end impunity. The recommendations of the Motlanthe Corrrnission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and need to be implemented as a matter of priority and urgency. It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In this light, the EU recalls the purpose of its restrictive measures. which is to encourage a demonstrable, genuine, and long-term commitment by the Zimbabwean authorities to respect and uphold human rights and the rule of law. The EU has decided to renew its restrictive measures, while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries, remain in place taking into account the situation in Zimbabwe, as well as the continuing need to investigate the role of security forces in human rights abuses The EU wil continue to closely follow developments. with a particular attention to the human rights situation. and recalls its readiness to review and adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The measures in place are targeted and very limited, therefore they do not affect the people of Zimbabwe. its economy. foreign direct investments. or trade. Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU. while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement. There is significant potential in terms of investments and jobs opportunities, if structural bottlenecks vere to be addressed. and political and economic reforms including enhancing trust in the rule of law, tackling corruption and respect for human rights, are implemented.
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms. based on tangible commitments made by the Government of Zimbabwe. The EU will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe focusing on three priority areas as aligned with the Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy: (i) good governance and citizens’ rights: (ii) green economic growth and (iii) social recovery and human development. The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP26. The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, in case of need.
The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recommendations of the 2018 EU Ejection Observation Mission. The EU is preparing for a follow-up mission. Moreover. the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they will be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.
As an integral element of its engagement truth Gmbahwe, the EU looks forward to have a political dialogue in Harare as a matter of priority and notes the readiness of both sides to organize this dialogue in the near future. The political dialogue wall provide an opportunity for regular and open discussions. on many sublects, including on economy and human rights. The political dialogue is key in fostering mutual understanding and constructive cooperation. paving the vuay for progress in the relations.
By-President Mnangagwa has responded to Nelson Chamisa’s Sunday highly attended star rally.
In his response, Mnangagwa showed that he was inspired by Chamisa’s suggestion that investors would flock to Zimbabwe with money within a week of him getting into office.
Addressing supporters of the newly formed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) said:
If you give me one week in office, you will see white people coming in with money, you will see the Chinese coming in with money.
But, President Mnangagwa, addressing youths and delegates during the Robert Mugabe National Youth Day celebrations held at Robert Mugabe Square in Harare said Chamisa is embarrassing the whole nation. He said:
Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. Zimbabwe can only be built by Zimbabweans, Zambia can only be built by Zambians, and Mozambique can only be built by Mozambicans and Botswana the same. Britain can also only be built by the British, as America by Americans, China by the Chinese and Russia by the Russians, but Chamisa wants Zimbabwe to be built by white people, he should be ashamed of himself.
The independence that we have was brought about by the sacrifices of our brothers and sisters who fought to remove the whites who are now being invited back by Chamisa. That is really shameful.
Mnangagwa also threatened Chamisa, saying that the government was prepared to deal with him Chamisa if he refused the results of the 2023 elections.
Chamisa on Sunday said he would let a defeat in the 2023 election go without a fight.
Chamisa said he knows he will win and was also aware of plans to manipulate the election process.
MDC Alliance president Douglas Mwonzora has revealed that talks between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his party to form a government of national unity (GNU) were at an advanced stage.
Mwonzora made the remarks at his weekend rally at Pelandaba Hall in Bulawayo, adding that he would not seek to be prime minister (PM) in the proposed GNU.
“I presented Mnangagwa with a letter with 21 points spelling out the kind of Zimbabwe that we want as a party. Very soon, there shall be talks of dialogue. I went back to meet him in January, as MDC-T. I am not involved in these talks so that I become PM, or that some of our MPs can become ministers, but we want to bring peace and prosperity to the country,” Mwonzora said.
“All conflicts that have bedevilled the country in the past have been resolved through dialogue like the talks that culminated in a GNU.”
Mwonzora told his supporters that he regretted the split between him and his former deputy, Thokozani Khupe, who has now declared herself the MDC-T leader.
MDC Alliance national chairperson Morgen Komichi said the last battle for the party after winning several court cases against the then MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa would be to win the 2023 elections.
Bulawayo mayor Solomon Mguni and Nketa Emganwini MP Phelela Masuku, who is now the provincial chairperson of the party, as well as other MPs belonging to Mwonzora’s party attended the event.
The party fielded eight candidates for council seats who will contest in the March 26 by-elections.- NewsDay Zimbabwe
By- An Irizar bus travelling from South Africa to Zambia was burnt to ashes along Harare-Chirundu road on Monday.
The police all the people aboard were safe.
Below is the police statement on the case: The ZRP reports a fire incident that occurred on 21/02/22 at around 0500 hrs, where a Zambia bound Irizar bus towing a trailer, travelling from SA caught fire at the 314 km peg along Harare-Chirundu Rd. All the occupants escaped with no injuries while efforts to extinguish the bus were in vain. The bus, its trailer, all the goods and language were burnt to ashes.
Highlanders picked their first win of the season after beating WhaWha 2-0 in a matchday 4 encounter played at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.
Bosso had lost two games and drew one in their first three games of the campaign.
The Bulawayo giants grabbed an early lead through Nqobizitha Masuku’s free kick in the second minute.
Masuku come back again on the half hour and netted the second one for Tshilamoya.
WhaWha, on the other end, failed to create any meaningful chance in the first half and went to the break trailing.
The visitors continued struggling in the second half and never had any shot on target for the rest of the match as Bosso continued controlling the possession.
The result saw Highlanders moving to four points on the log, while WhaWha remained winless in the campaign.
Elsewhere, Manica Diamonds’ perfect start to the season came to an end after losing 2-1 to Herantals.
Cranborne Bullets drew 0-0 against ZPC Kariba and Tenax beat Bulawayo City 2-0.
The European Union (EU) reiterates its ambition for a more constructive relationship with Zimbabwe at all levels.
The EU has reviewed its restrictive measures in respect of Zimbabwe and in this context recalls the Council Conclusions of 17 February 2020 as well as the Declaration by the Ugh Representative on behalf of the EU of 19 February 2021.
Since then, the situation in terms of respect for human rights has not improved in Zinbabwe. Intimidation of the political opposition and other government critics has continued to restrict the democratic and civic space. which is under threat of shrinking further, through the Data Protection Act and ongoing legislative processes such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged so-called “Patriotic Act”. The EU is concerned about these developments Perpetrators of human rights violations should be swiftly brought to justice to end impunity. the recortunendations of the Akillanthe Commission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially and need to be inplemented as a matter of priority and urgency. It is important that international human rights obligations are adhered to and the constitutional rights of the people of Zimbabwe respected.
In this light, the EU recalls the purpose of its restrictive measures. which is to encourage a demonstrable, genuine, and long-term commitment by the Zimbabwean authorities to respect and uphold human rights and the rule of law. The EU has decided to renew its restnctive measures, while lifting the already suspended restrictive measures against three individuals. The arms embargo and the targeted assets freeze against one company, Zimbabwe Defence Industries. remain in place taking into account the situation in Zirribatme, as well as the continuing need to investigate the role of security forces in human rights abuses The EU will continue to closely follow developments, with a particular attention to the human rights situation. and recalls its readiness to review and adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.
The measures in place are targeted and very limited. therefore they do not affect the people of Zimbabwe. its economy. foreign direct investments. or trade. Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty free and quota free access of its exports to the EU. Mile negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement. There is significant potential in terms of investments and jobs opportunities, if structural bottlenecks were to be addressed, and political and economic reforms. including enhancing trust in the rule of law, tackling corruption and respect for human rights, are implemented.
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms. based on tangible commitments made by the Government of Zimbabwe. The EU will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe focusing on three priority areas as aligned with the Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy: (i) good governance and citizens’ rights: (ii) green economic growth and, (iii) social recovery and human development. The EU commits itself to enhancing common efforts on addressing climate change on the basis of the Zimbabwean and EU commitments at COP26 The EU will continue to support the Zimbabwean people with humanitarian assistance, in case of need
The EU follows closely the electoral agenda in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support to electoral reforms – an important pillar to strengthen democracy – based on the recorrmendations of the 2018 EU Election Observation Mission. The EU is preparing for a follow up mission. Moreover. the EU welcomes the reassurances given by the authorities of Zimbabwe that they be inviting international electoral observers for the 2023 elections including an EU Election Observation Mission.
As an integral element of Its engagement with Zimbabwe, the EU looks forward to have a political dialogue in Harare as a rrratter of priority and notes the readiness of both sides to organize this dialogue in the near future. The political dialogue will provide an opportunity for regular and open discussions, on many subjects. inc.luding on economy and human rights. The political dialogue is key in fostering mutual understanding and constructive cooperation. paving the way for progress in the relations.
By A Correspondent | On the 2nd March there is a deportation flight leaving UK for Zimbabwe. It will land in Harare on the 3rd March 2022, ZimEye reveals.
The chartered jumbo jet accommodates 150 people, though the number of deportees is set to be slightly lower.
The development follows a secret deal between the British Embassy in Harare and Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime entered into last year.
While the deportation is a joint operation to send back immigrants who have criminal records , concerns were flagged last year that also included are Zimbabweans who have not breached any (non immigration) laws.
The 2nd March deportation will for the first time include British Passport holders who have had their citizenship stripped because of crime, an impeccable source told ZimEye, without providing further detail.
The UK govt has recently drafted changes to its citizenship law so that it can without consultation revoke citizenship using the public interest criteria. Ironically, this comes at a time when Britain has begun giving Zimbabweans papers to work as carers.
At the time of writing, ZimEye had received reports of at least 6 Zimbabweans who at the time of writing had been taken into detention. – More follows….
