By Gift Ostallos Siziba CCC deputy spokesperson

In panic Zanupf has arrested Tendai Biti this afternoon in Greendale.
Their fear of the Alternative has gotten to that level.

With all these trial and tribulations we have made a strong commitment to continue in this path until we get our freedom.
It’s better to die in chains that to live in submission.

The regime must go!

FreeBiti

Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change leader President Nelson Chamisa has described the late founding President of the Movement for Democratic Change, Dr Morgan Richard Tsvangirai as a great mentor and visionary.

President Chamisa pledged to abide by Dr Tsvangirai’s great vision.

He accused the Zanu PF regime of attempting to capture President Tsvangirai’s legacy.

“A GIANT, A MENTOR, A FIGHTER, A DEMOCRAT, & A CONFIDANTE.This day you exited this life.

They are still trying those old tactics they used against you.

They will not succeed. The struggle is in safe hands. Sadly missed. Rest in Power Mudhara,” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.

Own Correspondent

A west African prophet has delivered an oracle saying ZANU PF President Emerson Mnangagwa faces imminent death.

The prophet, Apostle Newman, said Mnangagwa is mislead by false prophets. He added saying the future of Zimbabwe is in the hands of a young man called Chamisa.

He said in full:

The current President of Zimbabwe if you don’t leave office when your time is genuinely due, you will die there, you won’t even see the next term. Zimbabwe is a nation loved by God and a nation that loves God.

There are still people who are praying in Zim for the will of God to be done even though there are many false dirty prophets, carrying themselves. There is a man called Emeritus as well, if I am not mistaken they made him His Excellency. I don’t know if he was made Excellency by this same president.

Mr President you must be desperate; making prophet excellency doesn’t mean the excellency is in you. The great excellency is Jesus. Mr President of Zim get on your knees and seek God’s face yourself. If you want to hear the truth God’s will for you, God’s plan is for you to finish your term, and go to your house, Zimbabwe oh Zimbabwe, hear this: tell your president, if he wants to live long, let him finish your term, and let him retire to his house.

Don’t be fooled because if you die these same prophets, these excellencies, and her excellencies and all these Passion Fruit, navigation javas, they will not die with you. Go and read the Bible these prophets have mislaid many Kings in the past and they die, by not listening to the voice of God. Nobody can cheat Zimbabwe of her destiny. God is particular about Zimbabwe now, do you know the future of Zimbabwe is a young man called Chamisa?

A young man is the future of Zimbabwe not the man that is there now. Let the true prophetic voices in Zim start speaking, and not these entertainers, Passion Fruit Navigating Javas, these men are pocketing your national cake in their pockets, claiming God is speaking through them. Africa’s hope is not in old men. Zimbabwe, man who is in his 70s and 80s, telling you he wants to rule you. Zimbabwe oh Zimbabwe; your destiny is in the hands of a young man, called Chimasa, or Chamisa or something like that.

Press Statement

11 February 2022

On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) calls upon members of the public to join the rest of the world in celebrating the achievements of women and girls in science and advocating for the removal of obstacles that prevent women from participating in the science industries.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is commemorated every year on the 11th of February in order to highlight the contributions of women and girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and encourage the increased
participation of women and girls in these fields.

The theme for International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2022 is “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Water Unites Us.” The theme seeks to highlight the crucial role that can be played by women and girls in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and
Sanitation).

The expertise of women in STEM industries can be leveraged in order to resolve the global water challenges that hinder economic development, social justice and environmental sustainability.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science is also an opportunity to reflect on the barriers that prevent women and girls from entering and fully participating in STEM fields, despite their immense contributions to scientific discoveries, medical breakthroughs, and
technological innovations.

Some of the barriers that prevent women and girls from entering STEM industries include gender discrimination and gender stereotyping. This discrimination and stereotyping perpetuates gender inequality and, ultimately, the quality of life of women and girls in society.

Therefore, the elimination of discrimination in STEM industries is key to the attainment of gender equality and the improvement of the socio-economic standing of women in society. In addition, the United Nations (UN) has recognised science and gender equality to be crucial to the achievement of internationally-agreed development goals, such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.

In particular, Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals is the attainment of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

In Zimbabwe, the gender stereotyping and discrimination of women in STEM industries is exacerbated by cultural norms which dictate the kinds of professions that women should pursue. In many communities, a career in STEM industries is considered to be reserved for men.

Some communities still shun the idea of a woman pursuing a career at all, let alone a career in STEM fields. Therefore, addressing these widespread beliefs and norms is vital to eradicating the discrimination that prevents women and girls in Zimbabwe from pursuing
careers in STEM industries.

The Zimbabwean government is urged to implement gender equality programmes and education reforms that address the gender stereotypes and discrimination against women and girls who choose to pursue careers in STEM industries.

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, ZLHR calls upon:

•       Members of the public to join the rest of the world in celebrating the achievements of women and girls in science and advocating for the removal of obstacles that prevent women from participating in the science industries;

•       The Zimbabwean authorities to implement gender equality programmes and education reforms that address the stereotypes and discrimination against women and girls who choose to pursue careers in STEM industries.

By A Correspondent- Robbers armed with still bars pounced on a steel company where they attacked a security guard on duty, handcuffed him with his handcuffs before getting away with a safe containing US$25 000.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the robbery happened in the early hours of Saturday.

We present a police statement on the case:

The ZRP is investigating a robbery case which occurred on 12/02/22 at around 0128 hours at a steel company in Rusape where 3 men who were armed with iron bars attacked a security guard who was on duty at the company premises.

The suspects took away the complainant’s handcuffs and handcuffed him before breaking into the offices where they stole a safe containing US$25 000 cash.

By A Correspondent- The President of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), Dr Takavafira Zhou has said the union’s members decide the course of action and the best way forward on whether to report for work or not.

He speaks after reports that he had encouraged PTUZ members to report for work this Monday. Since the 7th of February when schools resumed, some teachers have not been reporting for duty saying they are incapacitated despite the government increasing their salaries by 20 per cent and offering US$100.

In response to the industrial action, the employer suspended those participating for three months without pay leaving many confused. Some are for the continuation of the strike while some are considering going to work. Pindula News presents Zhou’s statement:

PTUZ Members Decide Course of Action and Best Way Forward not Leaders

My phone has been inundated since morning by PTUZ members over a malicious Sunday Mail report that I have said PTUZ members are reporting for work tomorrow (Monday 14 February 2022). For the record, I never said that, but indeed I spoke to a Sunday Mail reporter by the name of Debra. I indicated to her that PTUZ leaders are conveyor belts that communicate what members would have agreed on.

I unequivocally indicated to her that even if some teachers are willing to report for work I did not see how they could do that as they are incapacitated. I also reiterated that govt must have offered teachers a rescue package to afford them to report for work whilst they are waiting for the next payday as they are virtually incapacitated. Never in our discussion did I usurp members’ rights to decide a course of action collectively.

By way of this communique, I also request provincial chairpersons to swiftly collate provincial reports on members’ input and suggestions on the best way forward. My only candid advice is that members must be guided by PTUZ philosophy of making maximum gains and minimum losses.

Any genuine struggle has casualties and we must be able to know our weaknesses and strengths as well as the weaknesses and strengths of the govt in order to fight a thousand battles without losing one. The uniform of a guerilla is the colour of his/her enemy.
Venceremos.

Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President

By A Correspondent- A fierce boardroom fight has erupted at the People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) over retired chief executive officer Admore Kandlela’s decision to hold on to the job despite having been paid lucrative terminal benefits.

Highly placed sources within the POSB management and board this told NewZimbabwe.com Kandlela’s bid to remain on the position is being viciously resisted by some board members and senior management at the bank.

The sources also said Kandlela is currently in the middle of negotiating a new lucrative contract in a development that has ruffled furthers at the institution.

“Kandlela was due to go on retirement as far back as 2013, however through political connections his employment contract kept on being extended since then. Just recently, he was paid all his terminal benefits. He even took with him almost brand-new vehicles which he used during his last tenure,” a source said.

“We were surprised in the last few weeks to unearth that Kandlela is in the midst of negotiating a fresh employment contract and from my understanding, he is set to receive new vehicles and other benefits. This is worrisome since it will elbow out other contestants who are hoping to get the job,” the source said.

The source further alleged Kandlela has been frequenting the CEO’s offices in the last few weeks prompting many to suspect that he has bounced back.

“Information doing the rounds at POSB is that that some high level officials within the finance ministry are backing his comeback as he is seen as a good linkage ahead of the bank’s privatisation amid suspicion that some politically heavyweights want to usurp controlling stake,” added the source.

According to the source, these developments have riled a section of the management and the board, hence the emergence of deep division which, if not dealt with urgently, could plunge the institution into a crisis.

Contacted for comment Kandlela said he was still below the legally acknowledged retirement age.

“I am still below retirement age,” he said, adding: “What a pity. This post is being advertised in the press. Watch out this coming week and apply for the post please. It’s being advertised through Proserve for these complaining younger candidates. There are no unnecessary additions. I am still below retirement age.”

Further quizzed on the rationale behind the bank’s move to advertise a post whose candidate has already been identified, Kandlela quipped: “You need better facts face to face. What paper is this?  Why are you afraid of a face-to-face meeting?” he said.

By A Correspondent- Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor John Mangudya defended bank withdrawal limits announced on Monday last week, saying the new levels were above average formal sector salaries.

This comes after criticism from stakeholders including a former finance minister, Tendai Biti, who said Mangudya was using the withdrawal limit to block access to the Zimbabwean dollar as a means to control inflation.

Florence Taruvinga, the president of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) said the increase was insignificant.

She said:

The nominal increase, while welcome, is not adequate as the percentage increase is below the annual inflation rate, which implies that in real terms there was no increase.

Exports and remittances have increased quite markedly over the period, 2020 to 2021 for instance, exports rose from US$3.7 billion in 2020 to US$6.2 billion in 2021, while remittances rose from US$1 billion in 2020 to US$1.4 billion in 2021.

Mangudya set new mobile banking limits per transaction of ZW$25 000 and ZW$10 000 for person-to-business and person-to-person transactions, respectively.

Previously, the limits were ZW$20 000 and ZW$5 000, respectively.

The maximum limit for individual-to-business transactions was set at ZW$100 000 per week while the person-to-person transfer limit was set at ZW$70 000 per week.

Speaking at an event organised by the Zimbabwe Economic Society to review the MPS, Mangudya said in arriving at the limits, the bank was informed by average salaries.

He said:

We were of the view, and we are still convinced, that the figures which are there are quite high.

If you look at the average salaries in Zimbabwe, they aren’t all that high.

How many people are earning more than ZW$50 000 or ZW$60 000 in the general economy?

They are not as many as you think they are. So, we looked at the general salaries in the market.

He said ZW$100 000 is equated to US$417, using a parallel market rate of US$1:$240. A salary of ZW$50 000 or ZW$60 000 translates to US$208 or US$250, respectively.

Mangudya added that RBZ will be monitoring the numbers and adjusting the limits accordingly.

He said the limits were also meant to limit foreign currency parallel market activities.

While the new limits were based on average salaries in the formal sector, about 60% of Zimbabwe’s economy is now in the informal sector, which is rarely considered in government planning.

By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration is closely monitoring Nelson Chamisa, the leader of opposition Citizens Coalition for Change and Zambia’s president Hakainde Hichilema’s relations, a local publication reported.

Chamisa has been friends with Hichilema when the latter was also in the opposition before defeating Edgar Lungu in last year’s election.

Following his victory, there were fears that the wave of change might spread across the region, a development that could prove costly to conservatives and former revolutionary parties in the region which include ZANU PF and ANC in South Africa.

The NewsHawks reports that President Mnangagwa is one of those worried sick and scared stiff of a potential major geo-political and electoral shift in the country amid reports that Chamisa held meetings with Hichilema twice inside five months.

This comes as veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is also close to Chamisa, is believed to have high chanes of winning elections scheduled for 9 August.

The NewsHawks was told that Mnangagwa became very attentive since Hichilema’s invitation to Zimbabwe’s opposition leaders, to his inauguration. An intelligence source told the NewsHawks:

Since HH (Hichilema) came to power, the intelligence has been working hard to establish the nature of their relations and whether it involves financial support. Their worry is on various fronts: diplomatic, political and geopolitical.

Diplomatically, the issue is whether this won’t damage relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe; politically if HH supports Chamisa and his CCC, and in geopolitical terms how this will influence relations between the two countries and power relations in the region.

Bluntly put, Mnangagwa is worried that HH may fund Chamisa and influence the outcome of the 2023 elections, mainly the presidential poll.

When Chamisa flaunted his close relations with Hichilema, saying he had called him after his victory, Mnangagwa came out to claim that he was a friend to the Zambian leader and his wife, in fact, a relative.

By A Correspondent- A Chivhu-based cleric Abinel Mukaro has dragged Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Attorney-General Prince Machaya to the High Court over “unreasonable” court fees, which he said impeded people from accessing justice.

Mukaro is challenging Statutory Instrument 221 of 2020, which he says was unconstitutional as it infringes on his right to equal benefits from the law as well as his right to access courts.

In his founding affidavit, Mukaro said his wife died on September 12, 2021 after being severely assaulted by members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) stationed in Chivhu, and gave notice of intention to sue the police and proceeded to issue summons.

He said he was instructed to be ready to pay the Registrar of the Court 1% of the amount that he was claiming, which amounted to $10 266 for service of the summons.

“I cannot afford these fees due to my precarious financial position, but I believe I am entitled to have my case heard by the court and I do not believe or qualify to be represented as a pauper nor would I want to,” Mukaro said.

“I am advised that Ziyambi, in terms of section 57 of the High Court Act, fixes fees that are payable to the Registrar for issuing of process.

“The High Court (Fees) (Civil Cases) Regulations, 1992 published in the High Court (Fees) (Civil Cases) (Amendment) Rules, 2020 (No 11) entitles the Registrar to charge an extra 1% for issuing summons where the claim sounds in money. This is in addition to the fees payable under item 1, which is $1 000. I believe that there is no basis or rationale, for charging the extra 1% as I am advised that the duties of the Registrar are the same in respect to actions whether sounding in money or not.

“I am advised that section 56(1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides that ‘All persons are equal before the law and have the right to equal protection and benefit of the law’. I believe requiring me to pay 1% of the amount that I am claiming in a wrongful death action infringes and deprives me of my right to equal benefit of the law.”

He said SI 211 of 2020 was, therefore, unconstitutional.

“I am humbly praying that the registrars entitlement to be paid 1% of a  claim sounding in money be declared unconstitutional and that item 2 of item two of the High Court (Fees) (Civil Cases) Regulations 1999 published in the High Court (Fees) (Civil Cases) Amendment rules 2020 Statutory Instrument 211 of 2020 (No 11) be set aside,” Mukaro said.

Ziyambi and Machaya are yet to respond to the application.

By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has warned divisive elements within Zanu-PF that “it is cold out there” as factionalism continues to rock his party ahead of the March 26 by-elections.

Addressing a rally in Epworth at the weekend, Mnangagwa admitted that the party’s internal elections held in December last year were very chaotic amid allegations of vote-rigging, violence and factionalism.

“I am aware that we have by-elections coming up and during the provincial elections, we got reports that they were chaotic. Conflicts are accepted in the party but if a candidate wins, we must all embrace the result and rally behind them,” he said.

“We do not want thieves. I am told some of the candidates ran away with ballot papers during primary elections. If you are the one who disappeared with ballot papers, let it be the last time. Zanu-PF loves peace.

“You must follow the laws that are in the party. Respect the laws of the party.  Do not join the opposition. Do not ever attempt to leave. It’s cold out there.”

Mnangagwa blamed lack of development in the country on the late former President Robert Mugabe’s era, saying that at that time, money that was meant for development was looted.

“I sometimes question where money meant for development went during the First Republic, but I’m quick to put myself to order (keep quiet) as I was also part of the old regime.”

Political analyst Eldred Masunungure said: “Assuming it was not a miss of the tongue, that is staggeringly shocking and yet unwittingly true, especially from a regime that consistently seeks to distance itself in word and deed from the so-called first
republic.”

Mnangagwa also claimed that opposition Citizens Coaliton for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa would not rule the country, saying it would be a difficult feat for him to achieve.

But CCC national spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said Chamisa’s victory was certain whether Mnangagwa liked it or not.

“CCC has gone viral and has caused Zanu-PF and Mnangagwa to go on panic mode. It is the people that will decide who will get to State House,” she said.

Political commentator Effie Ncube described Mnangagwa’s statement as irresponsible.

“It shows a complete disregard of the democratic tenets and the people who are supposed to be electors. Whether the opposition stays in the opposition forever or the ruling party stays in power forever, it is not something to be decided by the President. It is out of his control. No party stays in power forever regardless of what it is doing,” he said.-Newsday

By- President Emmerson Mnangagwa is stalking Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema and opposition Citizens Coalition for Change leader Nelson Chamisa relations.

Chamisa has been friends with Hichilema when the latter was also in the opposition before defeating Edgar Lungu in last year’s election. 

Following his victory, there were fears that the wave of change might spread across the region, a development that could prove costly to conservatives and former revolutionary parties in the region which include ZANU PF and ANC in South Africa.

The NewsHawks reports that President Mnangagwa is one of those worried sick and scared stiff of a potential major geo-political and electoral shift in the country amid reports that Chamisa held meetings with Hichilema twice inside five months.

This comes as veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is also close to Chamisa, is believed to have high chanes of winning elections scheduled for 9 August.

The NewsHawks was told that Mnangagwa became very attentive since Hichilema’s invitation to Zimbabwe’s opposition leaders, to his inauguration. An intelligence source told the NewsHawks:

Since HH (Hichilema) came to power, the intelligence has been working hard to establish the nature of their relations and whether it involves financial support. Their worry is on various fronts: diplomatic, political and geopolitical.

Diplomatically, the issue is whether this won’t damage relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe; politically if HH supports Chamisa and his CCC, and in geopolitical terms how this will influence relations between the two countries and power relations in the region.

Bluntly put, Mnangagwa is worried that HH may fund Chamisa and influence the outcome of the 2023 elections, mainly the presidential poll.

When Chamisa flaunted his close relations with Hichilema, saying he had called him after his victory, Mnangagwa came out to claim that he was a friend to the Zambian leader and his wife, in fact, a relative.

More: The NewsHawks

By-Zanu PF aspiring MP for Binga North, Kudakwashe Munsaka, has allegedly threatened an International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) investor he accuses of funding the opposition party in the area.It is alleged that the Binga Rural District Council (RDC) intervened and begged the investor to stay.
“The Binga North aspiring MP threatened IAPF, which has a project in the Sinamsanga
community.
“The investor had threatened to leave the area resulting in the (Binga) RDC engaging them,” the source said.
Ward councillor Voice Munsaka confirmed the developments.
“Kudakwashe came to my ward where the investor was working and verbally attacked the workers there.
“The workers were questioned, including a recalled councillor Margret Valley, who works there. She is now an aspiring candidate for Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC),” Musanka said.
“Kudakwashe was accusing the investor of supporting the CCC candidate. The investor has a scholarship programme for schoolchildren.
“Last year, 125 students were selected in Binga, and this year the investor intended to award scholarships to at least 200 students.”
He said Kudakwashe claimed that the scholarship programme was benefiting children of members of the CCC party.
“The issue with the investor was resolved. But Kudakwashe went on to impound illegal fishing boats in the area,” he said.
Binga DCC Land Kabome said the issue being raised was petty.
“It was just a petty issue. Call me later,” Kabome said, but his number was no longer reachable.
Kudakwashe said: “I do not have much to say except that I did not threaten anyone. Valley is not an IAPF member, but a CCC activist.”
In 2019 Binga district development co-ordinator Lydia Banda-Ndethi was redeployed to Bulawayo following accusations that she has been working with non-governmental organisations and opposition councillors in the area without clearance.
Ndethi was then demoted for allegedly boycotting a function which was attended by Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga.
-Newsday

By Farai D Hove | A west African prophet has delivered an oracle saying ZANU PF President Emerson Mnangagwa faces imminent death.

The prophet, Apostle Newman, said Mnangagwa is mislead by false prophets. He added saying the future of Zimbabwe is in the hands of a young man called Chamisa. He said in full:
The current President of Zimbabwe if you don’t leave office when your time is genuinely due, you will die there, you won’t even see the next term. Zimbabwe is a nation loved by God and a nation that loves God.
There are still people who are praying in Zim for the will of God to be done even though there are many false dirty prophets, carrying themselves. There is a man called Emeritus as well, if I am not mistaken they made him His Excellency. I don’t know if he was made Excellency by this same president.
Mr President you must be desperate; making prophet excellency doesn’t mean the excellency is in you. The great excellency is Jesus. Mr President of Zim get on your knees and seek god’s face yourself.
If you want to hear the truth God’s will for you, God’s plan is for you to finish your term, and go to your house, Zimbabwe oh Zimbabwe, hear this: tell your president, if he wants to live long, let him finish your term, and let him retire to his house.
Don’t be fooled because if you die these same prophets, these excellencies, and her excellencies and all these Passion Fruit, navigation javas, they will not die with you. Go and read the Bible these prophets have mislaid many Kings in the past and they die, by not listening to the voice of God. Nobody can cheat Zimbabwe of her destiny.
God is particular about Zimbabwe now, do you know the future of Zimbabwe is a young man called Chi Chamisa? A young man is the future of Zimbabwe not the man that is there now. Let the true prophetic voices in Zim start speaking, and not these entertainers, Passion Fruit Navigating Javas, these men are pocketing your national cake in their pockets, claiming God is speaking through them.
Africa’s hope is not in old men. Zimbabwe, man who is in his 70s and 80s, telling you he wants to rule you. Zimbabwe oh Zimbabwe; your destiny is in the hands of a young man, called Chimasa, or Chamisa or something like that.

By- President Emmerson Mnangagwa is stalking Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema and opposition Citizens Coalition for Change leader Nelson Chamisa relations.

Chamisa has been friends with Hichilema when the latter was also in the opposition before defeating Edgar Lungu in last year’s election. 

Following his victory, there were fears that the wave of change might spread across the region, a development that could prove costly to conservatives and former revolutionary parties in the region which include ZANU PF and ANC in South Africa.

The NewsHawks reports that President Mnangagwa is one of those worried sick and scared stiff of a potential major geo-political and electoral shift in the country amid reports that Chamisa held meetings with Hichilema twice inside five months.

This comes as veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is also close to Chamisa, is believed to have high chanes of winning elections scheduled for 9 August.

The NewsHawks was told that Mnangagwa became very attentive since Hichilema’s invitation to Zimbabwe’s opposition leaders, to his inauguration. An intelligence source told the NewsHawks:

Since HH (Hichilema) came to power, the intelligence has been working hard to establish the nature of their relations and whether it involves financial support. Their worry is on various fronts: diplomatic, political and geopolitical.

Diplomatically, the issue is whether this won’t damage relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe; politically if HH supports Chamisa and his CCC, and in geopolitical terms how this will influence relations between the two countries and power relations in the region.

Bluntly put, Mnangagwa is worried that HH may fund Chamisa and influence the outcome of the 2023 elections, mainly the presidential poll.

When Chamisa flaunted his close relations with Hichilema, saying he had called him after his victory, Mnangagwa came out to claim that he was a friend to the Zambian leader and his wife, in fact, a relative.

More: The NewsHawks

Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change spokesperson, Advocate Fadzayi Mahere has pointed out that the Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa is in panic mode due to President Nelson Chamisa’s ascending popularity.

Addressing Zanu PF supporters at a rally in Epworth on Saturday, Mr Mnangagwa boasted : “Endai muudze veopposition kuti munhu arimuHarare akatanga kufamba kuenda kuChina netsoka anotanga kusvika opposition isati yapinda muState House.”

Advocate Mahere responded:
“This is panic-mode of the highest order. The citizens will decide who gets into State House. If the citizens choose him, President @nelsonchamisa will lead whether they like it or not. Only those afraid of the people would make unconstitutional statements like this.”

Citizens’ Coalition For Change vice chairperson Hon Job Sikhala said Zanu PF forced thousands of dejected citizens to attend Mr Mnangagwa’s rally.

“We don’t force people into buses to attend our rallies. I met 2 ZUPCO buses here at Nyamweda Shopping Centre in Mhondoro looking for people to go to the Old People’s home Rally in Harare.Ndiyo inonzi desperation.”

Citizens’ Coalition For Change Youth Assembly spokesperson Stephen Sarkozy Chuma tweeted:
“So @edmnangagwa and his corrupt officials chose one of the poorest settlements, Epworth to showcase their ill gotten affluence. Epworth is a pure reflection of ZANU PF plunder & 42 year mismanagement. No proper roads, no running water, no electricity etc. Choose #CCC.”

Tinashe Sambiri|Citizens’ Coalition For Change spokesperson, Advocate Fadzayi Mahere has pointed out that the Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa is in panic mode due to President Nelson Chamisa’s ascending popularity.

Addressing Zanu PF supporters at a rally in Epworth on Saturday, Mr Mnangagwa boasted : “Endai muudze veopposition kuti munhu arimuHarare akatanga kufamba kuenda kuChina netsoka anotanga kusvika opposition isati yapinda muState House.”

Advocate Mahere responded:
“This is panic-mode of the highest order. The citizens will decide who gets into State House. If the citizens choose him, President @nelsonchamisa will lead whether they like it or not. Only those afraid of the people would make unconstitutional statements like this.”

Citizens’ Coalition For Change vice chairperson Hon Job Sikhala said Zanu PF forced thousands of dejected citizens to attend Mr Mnangagwa’s rally.

“We don’t force people into buses to attend our rallies. I met 2 ZUPCO buses here at Nyamweda Shopping Centre in Mhondoro looking for people to go to the Old People’s home Rally in Harare.Ndiyo inonzi desperation.”

Citizens’ Coalition For Change Youth Assembly spokesperson Stephen Sarkozy Chuma tweeted:
“So @edmnangagwa and his corrupt officials chose one of the poorest settlements, Epworth to showcase their ill gotten affluence. Epworth is a pure reflection of ZANU PF plunder & 42 year mismanagement. No proper roads, no running water, no electricity etc. Choose #CCC.”

Tinashe Sambiri|The Citizens’ Coalition For Change (CCC) will hold an online event to commemorate and celebrate the life of Movement for Democratic Change founding member President Morgan Richard Tsvangirai.

President Tsvangirai succumbed to cancer on February 14, 2018.

In a statement CCC described President Tsvangirai as a doyen of democracy in Zimbabwe.

“On Monday, 14 February we will bring you a special St Valentines @TwitterSpaces to honor the memory our democracy icon Morgan Tsvangirai.

You are all invited. Please set a reminder and kindly retweet!”

By A Correspondent- Econet Wireless founder, Strive Masiyiwa has announced that he was leaving Facebook. In a Facebook post titled “Go to bed smarter each day,” 

Masiyiwa said the countdown to the last days of the platform, where he has been sharing inspirational stories and business tips, had started.

He said:

As we’re on the countdown to the last days of the platform at the end of this month, I want to remind you of one of the most important lessons I’ve taught here since back in 2013 when we got started: The importance of #Reading.

We all read these days, more so than at any other time in history. The guy looking at his small phone following social media platforms actually reads a lot! He probably reads as much volume of writing as Warren Buffett! So don’t say things like: “I cannot read long things”.

In 2020, TechnoMag reported that the Zimbabwean-born telecoms mogul Strive Masiyiwa had overtaken Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to become the most influential businessman on Facebook.

According to the publication, Masiyiwa, who has close to 5 Million followers on the social site, is ranked higher in terms of his followership, his interactions and the growth of his engagement and reach.

In 2019, Masiyiwa and his wife, Tsitsi, quit Twitter and later suggested that some users of the microblogging site were posting fake news.

He said:

Econet Global which I own, decided to move shares into another company, which I also own. I own both companies 100%. It has nothing to do with the listed companies! Our accountants were simply doing some housekeeping.

There was no deal!

This is one of the reasons why I don’t use Twitter, because a lot of people rush to say things on it, without checking the facts. It is a place of “conspiracy theorists”, who are thrown from pillar to post.

In the current Facebook post, Masiyiwa also claimed that he does not have Instagram or WhatsApp accounts.

By John OMO-Secretary General of the African Telecommunications Union 

12th February 2022 

In a continent that grapples with limited ICT infrastructure and access to internet and digital technologies, radio remains the leading communication medium in Africa with the highest audience and the widest geographical coverage catering to roughly 800 million Africans that remain offline as outlined in a 2021 report by the International Telecommunication Union.

While modern technologies that compliment radio broadcast such as internet have been received with skepticism, radio, has over the years, predominantly emerged as a trusted and influential source of information in Africa. If radio is not competing with but complimenting these modern technologies, how can this powerful medium be used as a catalyst in Africa’s digital transformation?  

The incorporation of technology into radio broadcast such as online/livestreaming services and the increased interaction between radio stations and their listeners through the use of mobile phones is a clear indication of the complimentary roles of the technologies. The role played by modern and emerging technologies in enhancing service delivery in the radio industry is just but one of the many benefits that such technologies can offer not only to the industry but to Africa as a continent and radio can be used to advocate for the uptake and adoption of these technologies.  

Throughout history, radio has done tremendously well in influencing positive behavior change among communities in Africa sparking socio-economic development. The rise of community radios for instance, have played a key role in conveying vital information and raising the awareness and understanding of these communities on important issues such as health, peace, civil rights, human rights, education, agricultural best practices, and financial growth and empowerment. 

Arguably, it can be said that Africa’s digital transformation is not dependent on the attitude of some Africans towards ICTs but on the availability of ICT resources and infrastructure. Acknowledging that investment in ICT that currently stand to a tune of US$100 billion is one of the key solutions in dealing with the digital divide in the continent,

it is also important for Africa to prepare its population for the digital transformation. Radio can play a key role in educating the masses on the importance of ICTs and technologies and advocating for the increased use and uptake of ICTs 

Internet safety and cyber security is one of the key areas that radio can play a role in promoting ICT adoption and usage.  Online security threats can discourage individuals including children from fully exploiting the benefits of the internet.

he radio can play a key role in educating the society on online safety by drawing messages from existing laws. Through the radio, the community can be educated on how to identify and report online and ICT-facilitated crimes including those committed against women and children.  

The internet can be used for personal and consequently societal development. Daily, new opportunities for education, career development and endless commercial activities are availed across the internet yet a majority of mobile device users in in Sub-Saharan Africa mainly use their devices for social and entertainment purposes than for information-seeking or career- and commerce-related activities.

This is according to the Spring 2017 Global Attitudes Survey conducted by PEW Research Centre. Radio can also be used to encourage the masses to fully exploit ICTs including their mobile phones to access such opportunities and develop knowledge and skills that can positively impact themselves and the society.  

Additionally, radio can also be used to encourage and challenge small business and farmers to explore online markets and resources. Many new and innovative digital platforms and services are now available for small businesses and farmers to use.

Technology can help these very important groups in our community improve their growth and productivity and increase their market share by accessing new customers.  With these tools being introduced at a rapid pace, there is a dire need for them to be educated on how to take advantage of such opportunities and thrive in an everchanging digital environment. 

When it comes to ICTs and digital technologies, content is the driver for the demand side of infrastructure. Africa as a continent should promote the production of local content and applications and radio can be used to encourage local content development as well as promote the digital content sector.  

As the world celebrates the 2022 World Radio Day under the theme “Radio and Trust”, stakeholders should challenge themselves on how they can use this powerful medium to influence Africa’s digital transformation. The sooner our population appreciates the benefits of digital technologies, the faster the adoption will be even as the continent works towards closing the digital divide.  

Ends   

By A Correspondent- Two Mudzi brothers are in trouble after they kidnapped an adult  man whom they suspect bewitched and murdered  their relative.

Tinotenda Tsoro (19) and Adventure Tsoro (20) allegedly kidnapped Mhangarai Navhaya before stripping him naked and assaulting  him with iron bars.

Navhaya is currently battlinf for like at Parirenyatwa hospital.

The matter came to light at Mutoko magistrates courts on Friday where the duo pleaded not guilty before magistrate  Elijah Sibanda.

The state led by prosecutor Nathan Mujuru alleges on 3 February  around midnight the brothers stormed Navhaya’s homestead and found him asleep.

They stripped his clothes force marched him for 15 kilometres while forcing hom to escort them to Nyanga to consult a traditional  healer following the death of their relative Rumai Tsoro.

They started assaulting  him with open hands and an iron bar.

The  duo  stopped assaulting  him when he lost consciousness and he was rushed to Kotwa district hospital where his condition  was said to be serious, they subsequently  reffered him to Parirenyatwa wherd he is currently  battling for life.

The  matter continues on February 14.

By A Correspondent- Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) activist Netsai Marova, who is believed to have skipped the border, has requested Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi to set up a virtual court trial after a Harare magistrate issued an arrest warrant for her.

Marova is jointly charged with two other CCC activists Joanna Mamombe and Cecilia Chimbiri for allegedly faking their abductions in 2020.

The trio was initially arrested for protesting what they saw as the authorities’ failure to provide social protection during COVID-19 lockdowns in Zimbabwe.

They were later arrested for faking their abductions.

Marova said she was not on the run, but wanted a virtual trial to clear her name while pursuing her academic studies.

“Firstly, it should be known that I did not abscond any court. Despite charges being levelled against me, the fabric of my social life must still be maintained. The oppressive bail conditions were making it difficult and all attempts to have them relaxed to enable me to proceed with my academic pursuits failed,” Marova told NewsDay Weekender from her undisclosed hideout.

“The trial against me can still proceed as the law allows virtual court sittings and indeed Minister Ziyambi alludes to these. If he is sincere, he could arrange for these virtual sittings in my case and I will gladly attend.

“On completion of my studies, I am determined to return home and have my name cleared and continue with my life. Regrettably, the conditions imposed by the State made it impossible for me to continue with my life while answering to their malicious charges at the same time.”

Ziyambi, while presenting a statement during a United Nations Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review in Geneva recently, accused Marova and her co-accused of faking their disappearance to tarnish the image of government.

But Marova said: “Their express denials of the enforced disappearances and their bid to accuse me of false abduction is, in fact, one of the key features that constitute the crime of enforced disappearance.”-newsday

By A Correspondent- Civil servants have pleaded with their employer to reverse the suspension of striking teachers, who started receiving their suspension notices yesterday, as workers’ unions pressed for more demands to the Government.

The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) confirmed that its members have started receiving suspension letters as earlier stated by the Government.

“Zimta has started receiving suspension letters, which have been handed down to its members and, as earlier on advised, all efforts are being and will be made to protect the interests of our members,” Zimta president Mr Richard Gundani said in a statement yesterday.

He said their executive will meet today to map a way forward.

This comes as the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC), which comprises Government and civil servants’ representative body, the Apex Council met in Harare yesterday to deliberate further on the Treasury offer on conditions of service for public sector workers.

The Treasury this week announced a 20 percent salary increase for all civil servants plus an additional US$100 cash allowance, as well as school fees allowance among other non-monetary benefits.

While civil servants are agreeable to most of conditions of service, some teachers have remained on strike.

The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) said in the NJNC meeting civil servants tabled their desire for the US$100 allowance to separate from their local dollar earnings and that the 20 percent increase be calculated from gross salary paid.

Below are some of the resolutions:

“A 20 percent review on gross emoluments (basic salary + transport allowance + housing allowance + representation where applicable) backdated to 1 January 2022 and to be paid on February 2022 pay date.

“Introduction of US$100 salary to be paid in hard currency across the board with effect from 1 March 2022. This is up and above the ZWL$ salary and continuation of payment of US$75 Covid-19 Allowance for civil servants, payable in hard currency with effect from 1 January 2022. This brings the total USD monthly pay component to US$175,” read the statement.

On non-monetary incentives, the Treasury had said that teachers will benefit from payment of school fees by Government for up to three biological children per teaching family with an upper limit of $20 000 per child per term to be paid directly to the school.

However, Civil Servants suggested this benefit should cut across board.

According to the statement, civil servants have requested Government to reverse the suspension of teachers that failed to report to work on the opening day on Monday.

They also implored the employer to bring back the effective date of implementation of the US$100 package pay date from the 1st of March to 1 January 2022 as well as extend the school fees benefit to the rest of civil service.

“However, the agreement could not be signed due to a sticking issue regarding the Government’s intention to suspend teachers who failed to report for duty due to incapacitation,” reads the statement.-statemedia

By A Correspondent- Five women from Mutoko are counting their losses after being lured to bush sex by Simbai Chikowe popularly known as Madhongi who in turn stole their cellphones and money.

The matter came to light at Mutoko magistrates  courts  on Friday where Chikowe appeared before magistrate Elijah  Sibanda.

Prosecutor Nathan Mujuru alleges from August last year to January  this year Madhongi would wait for women in bank ques or Mukuru outlets and lure them for a bush sex before stealing their handbags where he would get cell phones and money.

Police received several reports and arrested Madhongi at his house in Chinzanga area where the mobile phones were recovered.

The matter continues  on February 14 after the suspect requested for a legal representation.

By A Correspondent- A 47 year old Mudzi village head Fira Chizisano of Chisizano village was arraigned before Mutoko magistrates  courts yesterday for forging signitures and unfair distribution of agricultural  inputs (pfumvudza).

Chizivano was lucky to escape jail after he was cleared of his charges by Mutoko magistrate Elijah Sibanda.

The state led by Nathan Mujuru alleged from a period not extendig December last year to February this year the village head was handed over agricultural  inputs under Pfumvunza government scheme to distribute  them to the villagers, instead he converted them for his own use and forged signatures  of receipts. 

The magistrate  dismissed the case saying the Criminal  Investigating Department (CID) failed to properly investigate the case and bring overwhelming evidence.

“This matter was not properly investigated since there is no overwhelming  evidence to the charges levelled against the accused therfore the accused has been found not guilty and accquitted,” the magistrate  ruled.

By A Correspondent- A dispute has emerged between Greatman (Tongai Gwaze) a Zimbabwean musician and TEO Events over the former’s failure to pay US$2 500 for services provided at his wedding.

Greatman wedded Silibaziso Masara barely two weeks ago at an event that was dubbed the wedding of the year.

The musician accuses TEO Events of dishonesty in handling donated funds and goods.

Speaking during an interview with the Sunday Mail, Greatman claims TEO Events completely took over the event and monopolized everything.

He said:

They monopolized everything! TEO directed all cash donations to their bank accounts and mobile numbers for mobile money transfers. Goods were received on our behalf. We got nothing.

What is surprising though is that there are service providers that are yet to be paid. I am said to be in arrears of more than US$2 500. However, I know cash donations that came through on the day and before could have easily settled the debts.

TEO has failed to provide a financial statement or receipts showing how funds were used. Up to now, I don’t even know how much money we got from various people, including pledges and goods. We have been kept in the dark.

Meanwhile, Matthew Mhembere of TEO Events said Greatman and his family were being ungrateful. He argued that it was not his responsibility to meet their debts.

He said:

They now want to ask how much money we got from donations and pledges, yet they don’t even care about the expenses I incurred in making the event a success. Besides, it is not my responsibility to meet their debts.

Mhembere said he doesn’t know what else they want from him since he settled all the wedding costs that came under him. He added that he doesn’t want to talk to Greatman and his family again.-statemedia

By A Correspondent- Norton legislator, Temba Mliswa has said MDC-T leader, Senator Douglas Mwonzora, has a huge task ahead of the 26 March by-elections amid reports that a small crowd attended his rally on Saturday.

MDC-T which is contesting in the by-elections as MDC Alliance was officially launching its campaign ahead of the polls.

The Standard reports that an estimated 300 people turned up for the rally, but a statement issued by the party claimed 5000 attended.

The rally in Harare’s Highfield yesterday was being hyped as the stage to demonstrate that Mwonzora was the leading opposition figure in Zimbabwe.

It was billed to start at 10 am, but the party leader only arrived at the venue in the high-density suburb around 3:30 pm amid speculation that he delayed his arrival hoping that there would be an improvement in attendance.

Mliswa said the small crowd showed that Mwonzora faced an uphill struggle as he tries to outsmart Nelson Chamisa-led Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Zanu PF. He said:

For Mwonzora today should be a reminder that he has work to do.

As I have always argued, the electorate isn’t obtuse or naive.

It knows what it wants and he has the onerous task to make people believe that he can be a genuine opposition leader.

Meanwhile, Mwonzora told ZBC that he was excited by the turnout and expressed shock over the images on social media showing a small crowd. He said:

I was shocked the social media was circulating pictures without people, but now we can see for ourselves 5 000 plus.

Besides the ruling party, no other party can have such numbers without being forced or enticed by money.

After having a leadership clean-out, we are now having leaders who follow the party ideology and out of 12 seats we expect a minimum of eight.

At yesterday’s rally, most of the people were wearing red t-shirts emblazoned with the late Morgan Tsvangirai portraits with only a few wearing Mwonzora’s white branded t-shirts.

In his address, Mwonzora urged the electorate not to vote for people that were “recalled from office because of incompetence.” 

By A Correspondent- Nkayi South villagers have questioned claims by their ZANU PF legislator Stars Mathe that she has built three schools using ZW$2 million disbursed under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Mathe, who became MP for the constituency in 2018, told Khulumani FM radio that she had initiated various infrastructure projects since getting into office, including constructing three schools.

She said:

When we started getting the CDF, we looked at the shortage of schools in Nkayi South as children walk  long distances of up to 30 kilometres.

 I then ‘planted’ three new secondary schools starting with Gonye Secondary School, which is now at roofing stage.

We then went to build Sagonda secondary school.

I had to cut down trees in the virgin land and build Sagonda.

We also went to Gwamba valley and built one school in the bush after talking to the Forestry Commission and we constructed Dabe Secondary School to cater for the area.

However, in their virtual Nkayi Community Parliament, villagers said the $2 million mentioned by Mathe was not even enough to build a classroom block, let alone three schools.

They said  ZW$2 million can only purchase roofing, but not enough to also cover transport costs to Nkayi.

Mathe previously attracted the anger of villagers after accusing them of not being grateful for the ongoing Bulawayo-Nkayi road rehabilitation programme.

The road has been in a poor state for decades. -standard

By A Correspondent- A human rights activist has dragged Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to the High Court seeking an order directing him to table before Parliament a National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) 2020 report and its recommendations.

In his court application, Dzikamai Bere cited Chiwenga as the third respondent in his official capacity as the responsible official assigned to oversee peace and reconciliation. 
 
Bere who is also the executive director of the Zimbabwe Association for Human Rights (ZimRights), cited the NPRC and NPRC chairperson Sello Nare as the first and second respondents respectively.

The NPRC was established under sections 251 to 253 of the 2013 constitution to address past human rights abuses including Gukurahundi.

In his application, Bere, who is represented by Darlington Marange of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum said:

Despite the clear provisions of the constitution and the Act, the respondents failed or neglected to submit or publish that annual report for the year 2020 and we are already approaching the deadline for the submission of an annual report of 2021 in March 2022…

With this approach I have a real fear that the annual report for the year 2020, which will be due in  March 2022 will not be submitted on time and it is competent in these circumstances, to issue a court order to compel the respondents to also comply with their reporting obligations for the annual report for the year 2021.

Bere argued that failure to submit the reports makes it difficult for Parliament to hold the NPRC accountable.

In terms of section 16 (5) of the NPRC Act, the minister responsible is required to table this report before Parliament within 10  days of the next sitting of that Parliament.

Under the same Act, the minister is mandated to table the recommendations within 6 months after submitting the same report to Parliament.

By-Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has been dragged to the High Court seeking a human rights activist for reluctantly delaying to table before Parliament a National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) 2020 report and its recommendations.

In his court application, Dzikamai Bere who is also the executive director of the Zimbabwe Association for Human Rights (ZimRights) cited Chiwenga as the third respondent in his official capacity as the responsible official assigned to oversee peace and reconciliation.

The NPRC and NPRC chairperson Sello Nare are cited as the first and second respondents respectively.

The NPRC was established under section 251 to 253 of the 2013 constitution to address past human rights abuses including Gukurahundi.

In his application, Bere, who is represented by Darlington Marange of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum said Chiwenga and the NPRC were constitutionally mandated to table the commissions’ annual reports and recommendations in Parliament.

In terms of section 16 (5) of the NPRC Act, the minister responsible is required to table this report before Parliament within 10 days of the next sitting of that Parliament.

Under the same Act, the minister is mandated to table the recommendations within 6 months after submitting the same report to Parliament.

“Despite the clear provisions of the constitution and the Act, the respondents failed or neglected to submit or publish that annual report for the year 2020 and we are already approaching the deadline for the submission of an annual report of 2021 in March 2022,” Bere submitted.]

“I am perturbed by the conduct of the respondents, they have exhibited a lackadaisical approach in meeting these constitutional and statutory obligations.

“With this approach I have a real fear that the annual report for the year 2020, which will be due in March 2022 will not be submitted on time and it is competent in these circumstances, to issue a court order to compel the respondents to also comply with their reporting obligations for the annual report for the year 2021.”

Bere argued that failure to submit the reports makes it difficult to hold the NPRC accountable.

“Without submitting that report to Parliament, the latter is deprived of an opportunity to hold this commission accountable,” he said.

“It also deprives me of information that is essential to hold this Commission and the executive accountable.”

The NPRC lost seven years of its 10 year lifespan as it was not operational from 2013 as expected after the promulgation of the constitution due to lack of an enabling Act to operationalise it.

In February 2019, MDC Alliance proportional representation legislator Concillia Chinanzvavana had to take President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the Masvingo High Court seeking a ruling forcing him to extend the tenure of the NPRC by 10 years from 2018 when it was sworn in as prescribed by the constitution.

Justice Joseph Mafusire ruled in her favour meaning the NPRC will be operational until 2028, but to date, its lifespan has not been extended and is set to expire in 2023.

• The Standard

By- Residents of Gwanda were left in shock after a man was allegedly lured to five men who beat him up and stabbed him to death.

After committing the spine-chilling act, they dumped his body in a thicket.
The body of Thembani Moyo (26) was found on 3 February, five days after he was last seen, with family members noting that his eyes and privates parts were missing in a suspected ritual murder.
Moyo was buried last Wednesday at an emotionally charged funeral where family members narrated that although police indicated investigations were still on going, they suspected that the murder was linked to rituals.
Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the murder although she did not confirm that the body was found with some parts missing.

“Deceased Thembani Moyo aged 26 of Spitzkop, Gwanda was last seen on 26 January 2022 at around 5pm at Mbembesi B/C, West Nicholson. On the 3rd of February 2022 information was received to the effect that Thembani Moyo was murdered. The CID started investigations leading to the arrest of two suspects who were remanded in custody pending investigations.
“The two suspects led the detectives to the scene of the crime where the body of the deceased was found in an advanced state of decomposition.
As police we are appealing to the public to assist police with information that may lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects. We are also urging the public not to resort to violence when solving their disputes, but to involve third parties so as to resolve their issues amicably,” said Insp Mangena.
Family members, however, said Thembani was approached by Munyaradzi Masocha (28) who asked him to help him recover his car which had a breakdown near West Nicholson.

They said the two went with another car with the intention of recovering Masocha’s car at Masase Business Centre. When they reached the scene, five men allegedly approached them and grabbed Thembani before speeding off towards Beitbridge.
The family members said after some time, they branched off the main road where the kidnappers assaulted Thembani, resulting in his death.
The family members said what surprised them was that Masocha did not report the matter to the police and only opened up after Thembani’s father approached him asking him where his son was since he was the last person to be seen with him.
Part of the version of the story was corroborated when two suspects in the murder case appeared before Gwanda magistrate Mrs Polite Dube-Banda facing a charge of murder last week. The two – Bruce Decent Nyoni (19) and Keith Ndlovu (21) – were remanded in custody to 22 February to allow for further investigations.
Prosecuting, Ms Zanele Sithole said on the day of the incident, Thembani was in the company of Masocha (28) who lured him through a piece job at Mbembesi Business Centre in West Nicholson. Nyoni and Ndlovu, in the company of three other men who are still on the run approached Thembani, manhandled and dragged him into an Altezza motor vehicle registration number ADK 6838 which they were driving.
They sped off going south along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge highway, and upon arrival at the 170km peg, they turned east and parked 70 metres from the highway.

The five proceeded to take turns to assault Thembani all over the body using switches and booted feet after which they took turns to stab him with an Okapi knife, leading to his death.
The accused then hid the body in the thicket and disappeared from the scene.

A correspondent- A Honde Vally teacher has hired a donkey to transport him back to his workstation.

A picture of a donkey carrying a black bag reportedly to belong to the unnamed teacher is trending on social media.

This happened after last week the government suspended 135 000 teachers for demanding a better salary.

By- MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora yesterday got a rude awakening when a paltry crowd attended his party’s official launch of its campaign ahead of the March 26 by-elections.

An estimated 300 people turned up for the rally, but a statement issued by the party claimed 5000 attended.

Mwonzora’s party is contesting the polls under the MDC Alliance banner after side-lining Zimbabwe’s mainstream opposition party led by Nelson Chamisa under controversial circumstances.

Chamisa’s formation last month dumped the MDC name and is now known as the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

The rally in Harare’s Highfield yesterday was being hyped as the stage to demonstrate that Mwonzora was the leading opposition figure in Zimbabwe.
It was billed to start at 10am, but the party leader only arrived at the venue in the high-density suburb around 3:30pm as there were only a handful of people.
It was speculated that he delayed his arrival because he was hoping that there would be an improvement in attendance.
Independent Norton legislator Temba Mliswa said the small crowd showed that Mwonzora faced an uphill struggle as he tries to outmanoeuvre Chamisa’s CCC and Zanu PF.
“For Mwonzora today should be a reminder that he has work to do,” Mliswa said on Twitter.
“As I have always argued, the electorate isn’t obtuse or naive.
“It knows what it wants and he has the onerous task to make people believe that he can be a genuine opposition leader.”
Mwonzora told ZBC that he was shocked by images on social media showing a paltry crowd.
He believes that over 5 000 people attended the rally.
“I’m very excited by the turnout,” Mwonzora was quoted saying.
“I was shocked the social media was circulating pictures without people, but now we can see for ourselves 5 000 plus.
“Besides the ruling party, no other party can have such numbers without being forced or enticed by money.
“After having a leadership clean-out, we are now having leaders who follow the party ideology and out of 12 seats we expect a minimum of eight.”
Most of the seats fell vacant when Mwonzora recalled MDC Alliance legislators after accusing them of joining a rival party.
His party failed to field candidates in three of the constituencies that would be up for grabs on March 26.
At yesterday’s rally, most of the people were clad in red t-shirts emblazoned with the late Morgan Tsvangirai portraits with only a few wearing Mwonzora’s white branded t-shirts.
A high quality PA system churned out Paul Madzore’s songs at the rally.
Madzore is a member of Chamisa’s CCC. There was a scuffle at the end of the rally as some people demanded refunds for transport fares, which could be an indication that they were from other suburbs of Harare.
In his address, Mwonzora reserved his venom for Chamisa and CCC, accusing them of adopting an Islamist terrorist group slogan.
The claim has already been dismissed as false after it was first made by the state-controlled media.
“There are people whom we recalled from office because of incompetence and they are pleading to be returned again,” he said.
“You should vote for someone who has outwitted both (President Emmerson) Mnangagwa and Chamisa.
“That person is me. There is no other party that is going to use our party symbols and colours. The MDC party is ours.”
Mwonzora is accused of doing Zanu PF’s bidding, but he denies the claims. Standard

MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora yesterday got a rude awakening when a paltry crowd attended his party’s official launch of its campaign ahead of the March 26 by-elections.

An estimated 300 people turned up for the rally, but a statement issued by the party claimed 5000 attended.

Mwonzora’s party is contesting the polls under the MDC Alliance banner after side-lining Zimbabwe’s mainstream opposition party led by Nelson Chamisa under controversial circumstances.

Chamisa’s formation last month dumped the MDC name and is now known as the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

The rally in Harare’s Highfield yesterday was being hyped as the stage to demonstrate that Mwonzora was the leading opposition figure in Zimbabwe.
It was billed to start at 10am, but the party leader only arrived at the venue in the high-density suburb around 3:30pm as there were only a handful of people.
It was speculated that he delayed his arrival because he was hoping that there would be an improvement in attendance.
Independent Norton legislator Temba Mliswa said the small crowd showed that Mwonzora faced an uphill struggle as he tries to outmanoeuvre Chamisa’s CCC and Zanu PF.
“For Mwonzora today should be a reminder that he has work to do,” Mliswa said on Twitter.
“As I have always argued, the electorate isn’t obtuse or naive.
“It knows what it wants and he has the onerous task to make people believe that he can be a genuine opposition leader.”
Mwonzora told ZBC that he was shocked by images on social media showing a paltry crowd.
He believes that over 5 000 people attended the rally.
“I’m very excited by the turnout,” Mwonzora was quoted saying.
“I was shocked the social media was circulating pictures without people, but now we can see for ourselves 5 000 plus.
“Besides the ruling party, no other party can have such numbers without being forced or enticed by money.
“After having a leadership clean-out, we are now having leaders who follow the party ideology and out of 12 seats we expect a minimum of eight.”
Most of the seats fell vacant when Mwonzora recalled MDC Alliance legislators after accusing them of joining a rival party.
His party failed to field candidates in three of the constituencies that would be up for grabs on March 26.
At yesterday’s rally, most of the people were clad in red t-shirts emblazoned with the late Morgan Tsvangirai portraits with only a few wearing Mwonzora’s white branded t-shirts.
A high quality PA system churned out Paul Madzore’s songs at the rally.
Madzore is a member of Chamisa’s CCC. There was a scuffle at the end of the rally as some people demanded refunds for transport fares, which could be an indication that they were from other suburbs of Harare.
In his address, Mwonzora reserved his venom for Chamisa and CCC, accusing them of adopting an Islamist terrorist group slogan.
The claim has already been dismissed as false after it was first made by the state-controlled media.
“There are people whom we recalled from office because of incompetence and they are pleading to be returned again,” he said.
“You should vote for someone who has outwitted both (President Emmerson) Mnangagwa and Chamisa.
“That person is me. There is no other party that is going to use our party symbols and colours. The MDC party is ours.”
Mwonzora is accused of doing Zanu PF’s bidding, but he denies the claims. Standard

By- Zanu PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said opposition political parties will never rule Zimbabwe.

Mnangagwa addressed Zanu PF supporters gathered at Epworth High School grounds for the party’s by-election campaign rally on Saturday.

Mnangagwa claimed that some opposition leaders in Zimbabwe were telling their supporters that it is possible to unseat Zanu PF like what Hakainde Hichilema’s opposition party did in Zambia in 2021. He said:

Endai muudze veopposition kuti munhu arimuHarare akatanga kufamba kuenda kuChina netsoka anotanga kusvika opposition isati yapinda muState House.

Go and tell them that a person walking from Harare to China will arrive faster than opposition parties trying to get to State House in Harare. It’s not going to happen.

However, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere dismissed Mnangagwa’s comments saying only the people of Zimbabwe have the right to elect people of their choice.

Mnangagwa assured residents of Epworth and surrounding areas that his government is in the process of giving them title deeds. He said:

We sourced funds and gave them to Professor Murwira’s ministry to carry out a geospatial survey. We have completed the survey and will build flats.

We will move those who built on roads to the flats because we cannot move someone into the open.

Once you get hold of your title deed, you have security for your land. It becomes your inheritance.

This will ultimately do away with land barons. So we are in this process of regularising settlements as well as issuing title deeds.

More: VOA Zimbabwe

Tinashe Sambiri|Addressing curious residents at Nhari Business Centre on Friday, Citizens’ Coalition For Change vice president Hon Tendai Biti blasted the Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa for stealing State resources at a shocking rate.

Hon Biti also took a swipe at the Zanu PF regime for allowing Chinese investors to seize land belonging to hapless villagers.

Hon Biti accused Mr Mnangagwa and Kuda Tagwirei of running the country like a tuckshop.

By A Correspondent- As the long awaited March 26, 2022 by-elections draw near, Zanu-PF claims that there will be peace in the run up to the elections despite the party being ‘historically known to employ violence’ during polls.

Acting President Constantino Chiwenga who was guest of honor at this year’s World Wetlands Day celebrations at Njovo in Zezai village in Masvingo Central declared that peace will reign before the elections before accusing opposition parties of resorting to violence during campaigns.

“Those who think a country can be built by foreigners or opposition parties use violence thinking that outsiders will come and rescue them. We do not want to hear that. All campaigns in the country should be peaceful up until March 26, 2022, but we are going to win the elections in all the seats and build a Zimbabwe we all want,” said Chiwenga.

However, Chiwenga briefly turned the commemorations into a mini-rally before claiming victory for Zanu-PF ahead of by-elections.

“In all districts which are being contested by oppositions who calls themselves ‘Chete-chete’, we are going to do something which has never happened before.

“Unogoita chete-chete pakuitasei ndiwe wega urimunyika here? (How can it be only you as if you are the only person in this world)? There is no such thing. We want to build a Zimbabwe we all want,” said Chiwenga.

Masvingo province will have nine by-elections on March 26 this year, with seven local authority elections and two national assembly ones.

Masvingo Urban has four vacant wards, with two in Chivi and one in Bikita.

For national assembly, there is Chivi South and Mwenezi East.

By-A Policeman stationed at CID Headquarters was Thursday dragged to court after he allegedly received a US$5 bribe.

Detective Constable Moses Kainga (39) was not asked to plead when he appeared before Harare magistrate Yeukai Dzuda who remanded him in custody to today for bail ruling.

The court heard that on Monday, Kainga was deployed at CID Headquarters main gate.

Chikarango Mandaza wanted to have his wife Precious Musariri’s fingerprints processed.
He was assisted by Kainga who then demanded US$5 to facilitate the process.
Mandaza reported the case to Transparency International, a non-governmental organisation.

He was accompanied by Tracy Mutiwokuziva to report the matter at CID Headquarters.
A trap was initiated and Mandaza went to CID Headquarters and joined the queue.
He handed over the US$5 and collected his wife’s fingerprints.

After the transaction was completed, the police approached Kainga and showed him the trap authority.

He was searched and found in possession of the US$5, leading to his arrest.
Ruvimbo Matyatya appeared for the State.

-H Metro

 By A Correspondent- CCC Harare ward 46 local council candidate, Denford ‘Madhuku” Ngadziore’ has named and shamed Zanu PF youths who are defacing his campaign posters.

Madhuku released the names of the Zanu PF thugs through his Facebook account:

It has come to my attention that your Youth leader Mhembere, together with other ZANU PF Youths, was instructed to remove all my campaign Posters. I would like to WARN you to stop this type of politics as it is against the law and the code of conduct signed by your candidate, which is before ZEC.

Any attempt to engage in violence or deface my posters will not benefit you & your candidate. You have more to benefit if you have a violent free campaign. Those ZANU PF Youths who are to be used to remove my campaign posters think of what will happen after your silly actions. This is not UMP or Muzarabani. This is Harare West Ward 16, where l Denford Ngadziore representing the New CCC Party, am the candidate. This is not a WARNING but it’s an insight.

#Notoviolence

By A Correspondent- Zanu PF officials in Bulawayo Province have expressed worry over the party’s failure to properly conduct the recent primary elections to select candidates for the March 26 by-elections.

The internal elections exposed deep-rooted factionalism in the province amid growing concerns the G40 faction might be taking control of the ruling party’s provincial structures.

Party insiders who spoke to The Zimbabwe Independent fear that the national leadership’s failure to address complaints raised soon after the primary elections might trigger a “bhora musango” scenario.

Bhora Musango was a clandestine campaign by some Zanu PF leaders in the run-up to the 2008 harmonised elections against voting for the party’s presidential candidate leader Robert Mugabe while voting for the party’s parliamentary and local council candidates. Said an unnamed official:

The primary elections were rigged and this will work against the President. For some wards, ballots were mixed so that people could not see their candidates.

Ballots never balanced with figures of up to 100 in some instances. That means people were smuggled even when they were not on the voting list.

Vote-buying was allowed with no questions asked. Complaints on the irregularities were not entertained while the provincial chair acknowledged there was something wrong with primaries.

The chairman must know that he is chairing a pure 70% G40 executive.

Zanu PF Bulawayo chairperson Jabulani Sibanda, who landed the post in December after years in the political wilderness, dismissed reports of factionalism and claims that complaints were swept under the carpet. He said:

That is nonsense, there is no factionalism here. I am aware of what you are asking.

All the complaints brought to the office were forwarded to Harare and that is where you can get your answers from. I don’t have answers to your questions.

However, the Zanu PF insider claimed Sibanda Sibanda was bypassed when candidates’ curriculum vitae were sent to the party’s head office. He said:

Sibanda is now just a shadow of his former self. It is known from way back that Sibanda and Mnangagwa are close, even during the late former president Robert Mugabe’s tenure.

We expected a change from him but many people are disappointed.

Hopefully, he will find a solution; on the issue of candidates, he was left out only to know when curriculum vitae had reached Harare. They bypassed him.

Reports suggest that Zanu PF members within provincial structures are divided between those allegedly backing Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga and others belonging to a group aligned to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

More: The Zimbabwe Independent

By A Correspondent- The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has shut down at least three pharmacies and revoked the licences of four managers for selling expired and unregistered medicines to patients.

MCAZ Acting Director-General Richard Rukwata said the cancellation of licences and closure of businesses will be in force until November this year

Rukwata revealed that MCAZ recently adopted a new policy of naming and shaming those guilty of selling expired drugs. He said:

Licensees need to know that the game has changed. Contraventions to the statutes now carry significant reputational risk.

With the new policy of publishing offenders names, business leaders need to prioritise compliance for the good of their customers who are the citizens of this country.

The new policy is to publish these issues for the public good. Progressive regulatory processes require MCAZ to be transparent about regulatory decisions taken which result in the closure of businesses and cancellations of licenses.

The pharmacies and managers affected by the MCAZ clampdown are:

• Skiborry Private Limited, which trades as Bright Pharmacy of Number 10 Highfield Road, Southerton was found guilty of purchasing medicines from unauthorised sources, selling unregistered and expired medicines. The cancellation order remains in force until November this year.
• Edmore Jeje of Bright Pharmacy.
• Mukoka & Chikuya Private Limited, which trades as Goodhope Pharmacy at Number 23 Jason Moyo was also shut for selling unregistered and expired medicines.
• The licence holder for Goodhope Phamarcy Batsirayi Mukoka had his licence cancelled. The cancellation of the licences is valid until November this year.
• Border Pharmacies Private Limited that trades as Border Pharmacy of Number 63 Living Waters, Beitbridge was shut down for selling unregistered and expired medicines.
• Border Pharmacies’ two licence holders Costertain Delangton and Gamuchirayi Matandirotya had their practice licences cancelled until October this year.

By A Correspondent- A police constable and a soldier are among suspects who were taken to court on allegations of stealing Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) cables around Odzi since 2019.

The vandalism of electricity infrastructure resulted in constant blackouts and affected agricultural production in the farming area.

The two were named as Jacob Mazungunye (29) who is stationed at ZRP Sakubva and Munyaradzi Nyamukungwa (37), a soldier with ZNA 3 Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Company.

Their alleged accomplices are Frank Nyahando (23) of Tenderere, Sakubva, and Peter Zuze (36) of Area 14 in Dangamvura. Detectives are looking for the fifth suspect who disappeared following the arrest of his accomplices.

The suspects were all charged with contravening Section 60A (3) (b) of the Electricity Amendment Act, Chapter 13:19 and brought to court separately on different dates.

They recently appeared before Mutare magistrates Langton Carter and Prisca Manhibi and were remanded in custody.-ManicaPost

By A Correspondent- National Mine Workers’ Union of Zimbabwe (NMWUZ) President Mr Kurebwa Javangwe Nomboka has urged parents to rally behind striking teachers by not sending their children to school this first schooling term of 2022.

Nomboka said it was morally right to take a diplomatic stance in standing with teachers’ Unions that have been fighting for wage adjustment above PDL – Poverty Datum Line.

Teachers have been calling upon the government to restore their 2018 salaries (US$540) but the employer has not yet paid heed to the call saying it was incapacitated to give them what they are requesting.

The government Thursday suspended striking teachers for three months without pay. Nomboka believes teachers need parents’ support. He said:

I urge parents right across the country of Zimbabwe to support teachers’ quest for decent work and they can do that by refusing to send their kids to school this first term until employers resolve the demands for salary adjustment and as a union representing mine workers nationwide we’re herein standing in solidarity with teachers in downing tools.

All workers Unions in Zimbabwe should rally behind teachers and that as I have above must involve the contribution of parents as the improvements of teachers’ working conditions will simultaneously improve on the quality of education and affordability in terms of fees and other amenities.

He said 2022 was the year of workers’ rights, and decent work for the worker.

Meanwhile, NMWUZ President has hinted that employers meet the standing demands of mineworkers or risk facing unending protests and strikes in 2022.

Mineworkers are demanding their employers to give them COVID-19 monthly allowance and salaries in USD – United States dollars that are above PDL. – Pindula News

Police in Mutawata, Mashonaland East province, have arrested six businessmen in Pfungwe who fatally assaulted a man who went berserk destroying their shops.

The man, who police only identified as Jay Jay, died a few metres from the shopping centre.

The suspects are Tatenda Muswere, Fanuel Mutata, Eshwert Kagwambo, Nyepanai Nyauyanga, Elisha Hwenje and one Tinashe.

Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Simon Chazovachii confirmed the murder.

“Six suspects were arrested in connection with a murder case in Pfungwe. We urge the public to desist from taking the law into their hands,” he said.

It is reported that on February 5, at around 4am, at Mutata business centre, Muswere was awakened by a large bang on his shop door only to realise that Jay Jay was hitting it using a metal object.

Jay Jay told Muswere that he had been sent to destroy the shops.

The deceased also threatened to kill Muswere and his wife who then shouted for help.

Other shop owners woke up as Jay Jay moved from shop to shop breaking doors and window panes.

The six managed to overpower the now-deceased before tying his hands with a rope.

They assaulted him using switches for close to two hours. He staggered and collapsed a few metres away from the business centre.

Police attended the scene and conveyed the body to Mutawatawa Hospital for post-mortem. -Newsday