The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition would like to congratulate its membership for the successful hosting and conclusion of its 13thAnnual General Meeting which was held virtually on January 12, 2022.

In compliance with the Constitution of the Coalition, 49 member organizations convened virtually for the AGM on January 12, 2022 to elect the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Coalition.

This was after elections for the two posts had been disrupted by rowdy state elements during the Coalition’s Bulawayo AGM of December 15, 2021.

The members below were confirmed as the Executive Committee members of the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition:

1. Chairperson – Peter Mutasa

2. Vice Chairperson – Busi Dube

3. Spokesperson – Obert Masaraure

4. Treasurer – Gamuchirai Mukura

Other Board Members are represented by the following organisations;

5. Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE)

6. Election Resource Centre (ERC)

7. Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZIMRIGHTS)

8. Zimbabwe Divine Destiny

9. Chinhoyi Residents Trust

10. Students Christian Movement of Zimbabwe (SCMZ)

11. Berina Arts

AGM Resolutions

The following emerged as key resolutions from the AGM:

1. To devolve and decentralize the institution as a way of enhancing its capacity to identify and respond to organic issues affecting members and citizens in their localities. This is also in line with the national call for devolution.

2. The realignment of the Coalition’s institutional structure and scope of its Thematic Committees to suit the contemporary operational environment and the devolution agenda.

3. To carry out a needs assessment and capacity development initiative for its membership.

4. To vigorously push for the alignment of the Zimbabwean constitution with emphasis on equal gender representation, electoral reforms and youth agency.

5. Affirmed an inclusive and broad based national Restore Zimbabwe Campaign (in line with the 2021 Strategic Planning process) in response to the Zimbabwe government’s failure or refusal to implement and abide by the national constitution and several African advisory papers including the Mothlante Commission

6. In light of the continued shrinking of the democratic space in Zimbabwe and threats to a key gain of our independence; one-person-one-vote, the Coalition resolved to mobilize at a grassroots level as well as the African regional level as part of efforts to resolve the Zimbabwean crisis

7. The Coalition noted with concern the continued ethnic attacks on communities in Matabeleland including the refusal or failure of the Peace and Reconciliation Commission to manage an inclusive national healing process on Gukurahundi.

Our position is that Zimbabwe cannot move into a nation state if this past genocide is not attended to.

8. To continue putting ordinary people’s interests at the centre of the Coalition’s policy advocacy.

Blessing Vava

National Director

By A Correspondent- Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Felix Mhona, on Wednesday, announced three additional members to the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) board.

The new board members are Advocate Kingston Magaya, Angeline Matopodzi and Brenda Nhliziyo.

The latest appointments follow that of the new ZINARA board chair, George Manyaya, and his deputy, Lizwe Bunu, a fortnight ago. Mhona said in a statement:

The immediate task that I have given the new board members is to come up with strategies to decongest the toll gates, refurbishment and construction of Toll Plaza to ensure seamless revenue collection.

As a listening Government, we have received concerns from residents in built-up areas on the location of certain tollgates and I am happy to announce that we are now going to relocate the Eskbank, Shamva, Dema and Skyline Tollgates.

-statemedia

Pana secretary ari kudzingwa basa very soon, ndatofana kumunyarira pano pa tweeter. Nokuti achaitwa Christmas party muna February, ndatopedza zvangu chisingaperi chinoshura pabateyi ipapo

— Hon Zivhu (@killerzivhu1) January 11, 2022

By A Correspondent- The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) said that the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is investigating several institutions including businesses and schools for currency manipulation.

In a statement issued by RBZ Governor John Mangudya today, the FIU will take punitive measures against currency manipulators, among them, imposing fines and freezing their bank accounts.

The statement read:

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe would like to advise the public that the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is currently investigating cases of breaches of the Bank Use Promotion Act and currency manipulations by some business entities.

The breaches have become particularly pronounced and prevalent at some schools and pharmacies.

The FIU will deploy all tools at its disposal to deal with such malpractices including the imposition of fines, freezing of bank accounts and blacklisting from the enjoyment of financial services.

Members of the public are urged to report offending businesses and service providers to the FIU on hotline numbers 0780434475 and 0714039897.

By A Correspondent- In a shocking twist of events senior ZANU PF members from Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North are throwing each other under the bus and revealing how and who was working with exiled former G40 kingpin Jonathan Moyo.

In a leaked audio, former MDC senator Believe Gaule accused Esau Siwela the Tsholotsho Rural District chairman of housing Prof Jonathan Moyo when he ran as an independent candidate against a ZANU PF candidate.

Siwela and Gaule have a long-standing feud with tensions simmering because of the recently held ZANU PF provincial elections. Siwela refused to back Gaule for the Mat North Provincial chairmanship which infuriated Gaule.

Gaule was challenging Richard Moyo for the Provincial chairmanship post.

Listen to the audio below:

By A Correspondent | Former ZCTU president, Peter Mutasa has emerged victorious in the just ended Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition election.

The Labour union activist is known for his strong anti regime stance and anti neo-liberal policies governing Zimbabwe. He stood toe to toe against the regime when he was President of the Labour movement, ZCTU (Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions).

Congratulatory messages have started flocking in from various organisations and activists saluting and wishing the new chairperson well.

He will be deputized by Bush Dube while ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure will be spokesperson.

More to follow….

I generally dislike snakes. Good morning friends. pic.twitter.com/3Aaf4UZCl0

— nelson chamisa (@nelsonchamisa) January 12, 2022

Don’t worry or lose sleep even for a second. Relax!

— nelson chamisa (@nelsonchamisa) January 12, 2022

By A Correspondent- The High Court will for the second time hear an application filed by prisoners in 2017, seeking to be allowed to vote during elections, after the judge who initially heard the matter, Justice Clement Phiri, passed on before delivering judgment.

The application will now be heard by Justice Munamato Mutevedzi on January 25 this year.

Phiri, who initially presided over the matter, passed on in January 2021 after reserving judgment in July 2018.

The applicants in the matter, Yvonne Musarurwa, Tungamirai Madzokere and Last Maengahama, were prisoners when they filed the application, but have since been released.

Through their lawyer Tererai Mafukidze of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), the prisoners said they wanted the High Court to issue an order compelling Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba and Zec to register prisoners on the national voters’ roll and facilitate their voting in elections.

They argued that for the period they were in detention, Zec never carried out any voter education campaigns, including voter registration or enabled prisoners to vote during general elections and by-elections.

The prisoners assert that they have the right to vote in elections and referendums as enshrined in section 67(3)(a) of the Constitution regardless of their status.

“Zimbabwean prisoners have for a long period been disenfranchised,” ZHLR said.-newsday

By A Correspondent- Villagers in rural Kariba and the Negande and Luunga areas of Binga said they were now living in fear following a spate of cold blood murders perpetrated by unknown armed assailants.

The incidents started in 2019 when a war veteran from Chief Negande area was shot dead in the middle of the night at his homestead.

Last year, villagers in the Negande area said they recorded three fatal shooting incidents, but no suspects were arrested after the cases were reported at police stations in Binga and Karoi.

Last month, two people from Mayove village under Chief Negande were lucky to survive after their homes were attacked by unknown gunmen in the middle of the night.

Binga villager Nkopo Masteki from Chief Sinamusanga area was also shot and injured by unidentified people, while another villager only identified as Nchumpopa from Siamupa was shot dead on January 2 this year.

On January 6, Wireless Siamalongo Munsaka (63) was shot dead by unknown persons at Ngotola village, Nsemwa, Siabuwa.

Kariba’s ward 4 councillor Jason Charinga on Monday said: “The presence and use of firearms of late has become a serious concern to these poor communities.

“We are appealing to authorities at Nyaminyami and Binga to urgently intervene and carry out co-ordinated investigations into this matter, and bring whoever is responsible to book before things go out of hand. Criminals cannot take the law into their own hands.”

Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda said:

“Cases of murder are becoming so rampant in Matabeleland North and there is need to combat their prevalence.

“These murders normally are a result of misunderstandings over family and social issues. Irritable and vindictive lawless citizens are usually quick to wield weapons such as axes whenever they are wronged.”

She added:

“As police in Matabeleland North province, we are carrying out patrols and crime awareness campaigns entreating the populace not to resort to crime, but to settle issues amicably.”-newsday

By A Correspondent- Chitungwiza deputy mayor Kiven Mutimbanyoka’s business has been placed under investigation by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) following allegations that he smuggled fruits, vegetables and groceries worth US$100 000 from South Africa into the country. Mutimbanyoka reportedly owns FreshCo, Brandstep Imports and Cruscate Investments directly and indirectly.

A source told NewsDay that Zimra’s loss control department launched an investigation on Saturday and seized the goods purported to have been smuggled at FreshCo along Emmerson Mnangagwa (Enterprise) Road and at his house in Greendale, Harare, after a tip-off by a disgruntled former employee.

The alleged smuggled goods, whose estimated value is US$100 000, include onions, potatoes, carrots, apples and groceries.

“Mutimbanyoka fired workers unceremoniously last week, and this didn’t go down well with them as they were very loyal to him. So in revenge, they exposed all his deals to Zimra on Saturday,” the source said.

His goods allegedly passed through Beitbridge Border Post to his warehouse in Greendale without paying duty. After whistleblowers alerted Zimra, they went and sealed the “smuggled goods,” one of the ex-employees said.

They said Zimra pounced on the deputy mayor’s businesses in the company of police officers.

Mutimbanyoka allegedly failed to produce permits and papers showing that he paid duty for the goods.

He then allegedly threatened the Zimra officials saying that he was politically connected.

Zimra spokesperson Francis Chimanda could neither confirm nor deny the issue.

“Zimra is not allowed to provide comments on issues involving individual taxpayers. But once it is in the public domain we can give updates saying so and so is appearing before the courts today,” Chimanda said.

Mutimbanyoka confirmed to NewsDay that Zimra was conducting an investigation on FreshCo.

“It’s very true that Zimra staff came at the instigation of my former partner Knowledge Muzanenhamo.

“These are just allegations and it’s a case of sour grapes.

“We parted ways and he somehow thinks that the way to get back at me is through fabricating stories.

“Zimra did an investigation and is still investigating. We are waiting for the outcome, but as it is I am still very innocent,” he said.

“Zimra imposed an embargo on FreshCo stopping us from selling the goods alleged to have been smuggled.

“It’s an allegation, the issue will just die a natural death,” he said.

FreshCo is co-owned by Mutimbanyoka and his mother Charity Munoambirwa.

Brandstep is registered in the name of his wife Petronela Chibvute, while Cruscate Investments is also owned by Mutimbanyoka.-newsday

OPPOSITION MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora has written to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) seeking to bar his rival and leader of the MDC Alliance, Nelson Chamisa, from using the acronym MDC.

Mwonzora claimed that his faction had assumed the name MDC Alliance, despite participating in the 2018 elections under the MDC-T banner.

Critics have described the MDC-T leader’s antics as a desperate attempt to confuse voters ahead of by-elections set for March 26 this year and general elections expected next year.

“We are the owners of the Movement for Democratic Change name, over the years there has been so many derivatives put on it. However, the leadership of this party was defined by the Supreme Court,” read the letter by Mwonzora to Zec chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba dated January 3.

NewsDay has a copy of the letter.

“I was elected substantive president of the party, by virtue of the composite political agreement signed on August 5, 2018 and subsequent meetings of the MDC Alliance, I assumed leadership of the MDC Alliance,” Mwonzora claimed.

“We advise that no one else is allowed to sign for, and present candidates for, and on behalf of the MDC, any of its derivatives and the MDC Alliance.”

Mwonzora was elected leader of MDC-T on December 27, 2020, taking over from Thokozani Khupe, who was shunted to the vice-presidency.

The MDC Alliance bloc, led by the late Morgan Tsvangirai was formed in August 2017, comprising mainly the MDC-T, Welshman Ncube’s MDC-N, Tendai Biti’s People’s Democratic Party and several smaller parties.

Tsvangirai died from cancer complications on February 14, 2018 at a private medical facility in Johannesburg, South Africa and Chamisa, who was one of the three vice-presidents, was elected acting party leader for a year the following day.

He was the alliance’s presidential candidate in the July 30, 2018 elections and competed against President Emmerson Mnangagwa to whom he narrowly lost in a bitterly contested
poll.

Chamisa was elected the substantive leader of MDC Alliance at a congress held in Gweru in May 2019. Mwonzora contested for the post of secretary-general at the congress, but lost to Chalton Hwende.

He jumped ship to join Khupe’s MDC-T after the Supreme Court ruled that the process which made Chamisa acting party president after Tsvangirai death was illegal and, therefore, null and void.

Zec has previously stated that it does not register political parties.

The commission spokesperson Joyce Kazembe said as Zec, they had not received Mwonzora’s letter.

Sources from Chamisa’s camp yesterday told NewsDay that the party held a crucial meeting to discuss the elections on Tuesday.

“There were divisions over the issue. But it was finally agreed that Chamisa’s candidates will register under the MDC Alliance name. It was resolved that if Zec rejects them, the party has a fall-back plan,” the source revealed without mentioning the plan.

MDC Alliance spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere refused to comment on the issue.  She said the party would make an announcement at the right time.

-additional reporting Newsday

31st July Court Update

President Jacob Ngarivhume is back in court today for the trial of his Incitement to cause violence case.

The matter will be heard as follows;

~Rotten Row Magistrate Courts ~Court 14 ~12th January 2022 ~Time 0800hrs

It continues to be an arduous journey and the state continues to persecute those who fight corruption but we are not deterred.

Let’s stand in solidarity with our President.

TZ Communications

The Central Banker Report Cards, published annually by Global Finance since 1994, grade the central bank governors of 101 key countries and territories, including the European Union, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the Bank of Central African States, and the Central Bank of West African States.

According to the report, only two central bankers made the top 10 global list: Abdellatif Jouahri, the Governor of Bank al-Maghrib (Morocco), and Tarek Amer, Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Zimbabwe’s Governor John Mangudya has the least rating (D) of all the African counterparts.

Abdellatif Jouahri

The report showed that Abdellatif Jouahri, the Governor of Bank al-Maghrib (Morocco), earned an “A grade,” which is the highest distinction awarded by “Central Banker Report Cards” for the fourth time in a row. He was credited for his efforts in tripling the supply of funds to commercial banks and expanding the range of bonds and securities the apex bank would accept in exchange for refinancing.

Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) Tarek Amer also received an “A” grade for his efforts to restore Egypt’s macroeconomic stability.

Globally, the top ten central bankers with an “A” rating are Roberto Campos Neto (Brazil), Dimitar Radev (Bulgaria), Tiff Macklem (Canada), Mario Marcel Cullell (Chile), Yi Gang (China), Jiri Rusnok (Czech Republic) ), Tarek Amer (Egypt), Christine Lagarde (European Union), Mohammad Yousef Al-Hashel (Kuwait).

The magazine grades are based on an “A” to “F” scale for success in areas such as inflation control, economic growth goals, currency stability and interest rate management. (“A” represents an excellent performance down through “F” for outright failure.)

Let’s look at the performance ranking of other central bank governors in Africa, according to Central Banker Report Cards 2020.

1. Tarek Amer | EGYPT: GRADE (A–)

Tarek Amer

He oversaw a three-year IMF-backed reform program beginning in 2016 that restored macroeconomic stability to Egypt. In an emergency meeting on March 16, 2020, the central bank responded to the impact of the coronavirus by cutting its overnight deposit rate by 300 basis points to 9.25%. It also said it would postpone the payment of any credit liabilities on individuals and institutions, including mortgages, without any fines for delayed payments.

2. Abdellatif Jouahri | MOROCCO: GRADE (A)

Abdellatif Jouahri

Bank al-Maghrib, Morocco’s central bank, cut its policy rate 25 basis points in March to 2% to counter the effects of a drought and the coronavirus. In April, it tripled the supply of funds to commercial banks and expanded the range of bonds and securities it would accept in exchange for refinancing. The Professional Group of Moroccan Banks agreed to allow individuals and businesses to postpone payment of loan instalments for three months upon written request.

Governor Abdellatif Jouahri said in a statement on July 29 that Morocco’s economic performance was “not enough to meet the increasing social aspirations” of the population, suggesting that more economic stimulus measures, particularly those aimed at micro and small enterprises, were likely.

3. Patrick Njoroge | KENYA: GRADE (B+)

CBK Governor Dr Patrick Njoroge

As Kenya’s tea and flower exports resumed in late July, Central Bank Governor Patrick Njoroge said the country’s economic recovery would be driven by growing remittances from workers abroad and a bumper harvest of corn, the country’s staple.

The central bank lowered its benchmark rate 125 basis points to 7% at the onset of the crisis. It also lowered reserve requirements and permitted commercial banks to restructure distressed loans.

4. John Rwangombwa | RWANDA: GRADE (B+)

John Rwangombwa

Rwanda’s central bank responded quickly to address the effects of the coronavirus on its fast-growing economy. In March, it cut bank reserve requirements to ease liquidity constraints. In April, the central bank cut its benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points to a record low of 4.5%. It also allowed commercial banks to restructure outstanding loans for borrowers facing temporary cash-flow challenges arising from the pandemic.

The government announced a $52 million package for local banks to help support funding for business continuity. The World Bank provided $14.25 million of International Development Association credit in immediate funding to the Rwanda Covid-19 Emergency Response Project.

5. Lesetja Kganyago | SOUTH AFRICA: GRADE: (B+)

Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the Reserve Bank of South Africa, poses for a photo in the Manhattan borough of New York October 6, 2015. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri

The South African Reserve Bank responded aggressively to the coronavirus-driven economic crisis, cutting interest rates five times through July to a record low of 3.5% as the economy weakened and kept inflation low. The country’s inflation rate fell to 2.1% in May, the lowest in more than 15 years.

Governor Lesetja Kganyago said the Reserve Bank’s purchases of government debt beginning in March were aimed at reducing the dysfunction in the market and were not quantitative easing. He said the country would feel the measures the central bank took only as the economy reopened. Kganyago was reappointed last November to a new five-year term as governor.

6. Ernest Addison | GHANA: GRADE (B–)

Bank of Ghana Governor, Ernest Addison

Governor Ernest Addison led a consolidation of Ghana’s banking system, which reduced the number of banks from 35 to 23 last year. As a result of the reforms, Ghana’s banks were better prepared for the recession. In mid-March, the central bank cut its policy rate 150 basis points to 14.5%. It also cut the primary reserve requirement to 8% from 10%, and the capital conservation buffers to 1.5% from 3%.

Nonperforming loans rose to 18.1% in June, with rising defaults from the hospitality and construction sectors. The central bank gave commercial banks more leeway in terms of classifying bad debts.

7. Florens Luoga | TANZANIA: GRADE (B–)

Florens Luoga

The Bank of Tanzania cut its discount rate for lending to banks 200 basis points to 5% in May. It also lowered reserve requirements 100 basis points to 6% to provide additional liquidity to banks. The central bank said it would provide regulatory flexibility to banks and other financial institutions for loan restructurings to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties due to the coronavirus. Mobile money operators were allowed to increase their daily transaction limits.

Tanzania’s GDP rose 5.7% in the first quarter, supported by demand for gold. GDP grew 7% in 2019, and the Finance Ministry expects growth to slow to 4% this year and inflation to remain below 10%.

8. Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile | UGANDA: GRADE: (C+)

Bank of Uganda Governor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. (Africa tembelea)

The Bank of Uganda cut the central bank rate 100 basis points in April and another 100 basis points in June, bringing the rate down to 7%. After commercial banks failed to reduce their loan rates in response to the central bank’s easing, Governor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile sent a letter to bank CEOs on July 6 threatening to impose interest rate caps. The average bank lending rate rose from 17.7% in April to 18.8% in July. The Uganda Bankers’ Association said in a statement on its website that commercial banks would begin cutting their rates within 30 days.

9. Yinager Dessie | ETHIOPIA: GRADE (C)

Yinager Dessie

Governor Yinager Dessie says Ethiopia plans to set a central bank benchmark rate and introduce a floating-rate foreign exchange system in three years. The country has foreign currency shortages and double-digit inflation. On May 19, the central bank imposed limits on cash withdrawals and suspended foreclosures for three months. It provided additional liquidity to private banks to facilitate debt restructuring.

10. Godwin Emefiele | NIGERIA: GRADE (C)

Godwin Emefiele, CBN Governor

Under governor Godwin Emefiele’s watch, inflation rose to 12.3% in April, and the country’s foreign exchange reserves have fallen significantly. The central bank held its policy rate at 12.5% in July amid fears that lower rates could pressure the naira currency. However, private credit has declined sharply, despite efforts by the central bank to convince commercial banks to boost lending.

By A Correspondent- ZimEye will be livestreaming a press conference by MDC T leader Douglas Mwonzora at Harvest House this morning.

Refresh this page for latest updates on this story and more.

By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa had issued a warning to deal decisively with divisive elements within the ruling party before sacking State Security Minister, Owen Ncube on Monday.

In his address during last week’s ZANU Politburo meeting, Mnangagwa threatened to take action against officials fanning factionalism within the party.

Ncube was fired from the Government for “conduct that was deemed inappropriate for a Minister of Government”, according to a terse statement issued by Mnangagwa’s office.

No specific reason was given for Ncube’s dismissal but it is believed that his sacking had to do with recent disturbances that rocked ZANU PF Midlands provincial structures.

Ncube reportedly hired thugs that disrupted last Saturday’s Provincial Coordinating Committee meeting meant to elect members to fill vacant posts.

The meeting was abandoned following disturbances by the thugs without completing its agenda.

Addressing the Politburo meeting held before Ncube’s sacking to endorse provincial chairpersons that won the 28 December provincial elections, Mnangagwa said:

Let me further hasten to say that constitutionalism, unity, peace, harmony and development remain our absolute compass, now and going into the future.

Irregularities and political chicanery across party structures must be decisively dealt with and expunged from the party.

I urge the party leadership to always listen to the aspirations of the people at every level.

It is equally important that the party leadership and membership in general work concretely to achieve a better quality of life for our people.

It is after all the people who have entrusted us with the mandate to govern over our great country.-statemedia

By A Correspondent- Government representatives and the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) are set to meet this Wednesday for a fresh round of salary negotiations.

Civil servants are cautiously optimistic ahead of the National Joint Negotiating Committee (NJNC) meeting today after the Government paid their 2021 bonuses in US dollars and pledged to pay their COVID-19 allowances in foreign currency.

Speaking to Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN), Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Paul Mavima said:

We have our position but obviously cannot disclose it before we meet with the employees.

Whatever the outcome, we shall go back to Cabinet where the issue will be discussed.

As the employer, we have the best interests of the civil servants at heart.

ZCPSTU secretary-general David Dzatsunga said they would rather wait to hear what the Government has decided to offer them than celebrate prematurely. Said Dzatsunga:

We are obviously cautiously optimistic because we are still happy with what is in the kitty and what they are going to bring. But we don’t want to celebrate prematurely.

Civil servants will from this month receive their US$75 monthly COVID-19 risk allowance in cash as well as pensioners their US$30 allowances.-statemedia

By- MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora has cliched on to the MDC-Alliance party name and said that no other party is allowed to use the name MDC or its derivatives in any election. 

Mwonzora announced this ahead of the March 26 by-elections in which MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa intends to participate. 

Below is Mwonzora’s letter to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission blocking Chamisa from using the name MDC-Alliance:

Re: Signatories for Candidates For the Movement for Democratic Change

We advise that in the forthcoming by-elections we intend to field candidates in Parliament and Local Government. We are the owners of the Movement for Democratic Change name. Over the years there has had so many derivatives put on it. However, the leadership of this party was defined by the Supreme Court in the judgment in SC 56/20. Pursuant to this judgment the party held its Extraordinary Congress on the 27’h of December 2020 where I was elected the substantive President of the Party. By virtue of the Composite Political Agreement signed on the 5’h of August 2017 and the subsequent meetings of the MDC Alliance, I assumed the leadership of the MDC Alliance.

We, therefore, advise that our signatories for the candidates of the Movement for Democratic Change and its derivatives in the coming elections and by-elections are:

Douglas Togaraseyi Mwonzora — President 

Morgen Komichi — National Chairman 

Paurina Mpariwa — Secretary-General 

Ghandi Mudzingwa — Secretary for Elections

We advise that no one else is allowed to sign for and present candidates for and on behalf of the MDC, any of its derivatives and the MDC Alliance.

We attach hereto the relevant signature forms for your information. 1 also attach the constitution of the MDC, the Supreme Court judgment and the Alliance Agreement.

By- The dismissal from Government of former National Security Minister, Owen Ncube on Monday followed warning by President Mnangagwa during last week’s Politburo meeting that the revolutionary party would decisively deal with rogue elements causing disharmony within its structures.

Ncube was fired from Government for “conduct that was deemed inappropriate for a Minister of Government”.
While no specific reason for his dismissal was given, Ncube is believed to have been behind recent disturbances that rocked Zanu PF Midlands provincial structures.
In his address during the Politburo meeting held before Ncube’s dismissal to endorse provincial chairpersons that won the recent intra-party elections, the President called for unity following the polls, but warned that disruptive elements would be dealt with.

“Let me further hasten to say that constitutionalism, unity, peace, harmony and development remain our absolute compass, now and going into the future. Irregularities and political chicanery across party structures must be decisively dealt with and expunged from the party.
“I urge the party leadership to always listen to the aspirations of the people at every level. It is equally important that the party leadership and membership in general work concretely to achieve a better quality of life for our people. It is after all the people who have entrusted us with the mandate to govern over our great country,” he said.
In addition, the President urged party cadres to embrace the results of the polls saying they should inspire them to learn, develop and mature in their political career.
“In all our dealings, members must conduct themselves honourably, informed by the party constitution, rules, procedures, principles and ethos,” President Mnangagwa said.

Reports from the Midlands claim that Ncube hired thugs that disrupted last Saturday’s Provincial Coordinating Committee meeting meant to elect cadres to fill vacant posts.
The meeting was aborted following disturbances by the thugs without completing its agenda.
Ncube was first appointed into Government as Midlands’ Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister in 2017 before his elevation to the National Security Portfolio in 2018.

-State media

By- Former Gweru mayor and councillor for ward 1, Hamutendi Kombayi has bounced back as the city’s mayor.

Kombayi belongs to the Douglas Mwonzor’s MDC-T. He replaces Josiah Makombe, who was recently recalled as councillor by Mwonzora.

Kombayi polled 11 votes against Martin Chivoko’s 4 votes in an election which was held at the Town House Tuesday morning.

Kombayi was fired as the mayor of Gweru in 2017 by the then Local Government Minister Saviour Kasukuwere.

By- Zvishavane resident magistrate Mr Archie Wochiunga has remanded Laida Mwedzi and her daughter Gladys Shava in custody after the two appeared before him on charges of attempted murder.

The charges arose after the two attacked the daughter’s lover and “circumcised” him as punishment for accidentally spilling an illicit brew they were drinking.

Mwedzi (45) and Shava (26) from Vengai Village in the Mazvihwa area were not asked to plead, and were remanded in custody to January 17.

Mr Wochiunga advised them to apply for bail at the High Court.

The mother and daughter are accused of attempting to kill Onias Hove (46), whom they allegedly knocked unconscious after striking him on the head with an empty beer bottle and subsequently cutting off his foreskin with a broken bottle on Christmas Day.

It was the State’s case that at around 6PM on Christmas Day, Mwedzi and Hove got into an argument at her homestead after he accidentally spilled an illicit brew known as Double Punch, which they were drinking.

An incensed Mwedzi allegedly grabbed an empty beer bottle and struck Hove once on the head and he collapsed.

Her daughter Shava allegedly jumped on Hove and choked him until he lost consciousness.

They allegedly used a broken beer bottle to cut off Hove’s foreskin while he was still unconscious.

When he regained consciousness, Mwedzi and Shava threatened Hove with more unspecified harm if he sought medical attention or reported the matter to police, promising to use traditional medicine to heal his wound.

Hove, however, reported the matter to the police when he left their homestead resulting in the arrest of the mother and daughter pair.

Mr Isheanesu Mashayanye appeared for the State.

Chronicle

By- Armed robbers raided a Mashwede Holdings food court in Southlea Park, Harare, early Monday morning and got away with a safe containing over US$5 000 after attacking some security guards manning the premises.

No arrests have been made and police detectives from the CID Homicide are still looking for the suspects.

Although the details were still sketchy, sources close to the investigations said the gang raided the premises at around 1 am before attacking the security guards manning the premises.

They then broke into one of the offices and took away the safe that contained the money before disappearing.

A manhunt has since been launched for the robbers.

Mashwede Holdings was in 2020 raided by robbers who got away with over US$100 000, R42 000, $14 000 worth of fuel coupons, firearms and 20 live rounds of ammunition. 

In that incident, Conwell Junior Kasambarare (26), believed to be part of the famous Musa Taj Abdul gang, Spicer Takawira and Musafare Mupamhanga are alleged to be part of the gang that robbed the premises. He was arrested.

Kasambarare who is facing multiple robbery and housebreaking charges failed to turn up in court for his latest remand hearing last Tuesday, prompting the issuance of a warrant of arrest and police have launched a manhunt for him, yet again. 

More: The Herald

By- Police in Chipinge has arrested a 56-year-old woman Ararwai Chikunga from Hanganyi Village under Chief Mutema for planting mbanje.

The Chipinge Criminal Investigation Department arrested Chikunga after a tip off by locals that she was cultivating marijuana in her garden.

She had at least 143 plants with an average height of 180 cm with a street value of around US$2 000.

Chikunga has since been charged with unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs.

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance vice president Hon Tendai Biti castigated the Zanu PF regime for bombing the Gukurahundi memorial site.

Hon Biti also accused the regime of capturing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.

“On #MakoMonday we welcome back
@MakomboreroH
. Incarcerated for 12 months for simply standing up for truth & justice . This surely is a pathetic fascist tin pot regime. Fortunately the days of tyranny are numbered .

Constitutional obligations can not be avoided and only to be met by a pathetic meaningless apology . Truth is
@ZECzim
is a completely captured institution that is incapable of delivering a free fair credible & legitimate election,” wrote Hon Biti on Twitter.

He added:
“The continued destruction of Gukurahundi memorial plaques & cites is sick & repulsive. It epitomizes everything wrong about Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and his short troubled reign . It’s a nutshell of everything wrong about present day Zimbabwe post the 2017 coup . #Shame.”

By A Correspondent- Former Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Union (ZCTU) President Peter Mutasa has emerged victorious in the just ended Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition election.

The Labour union activist is known for his strong anti regime stance and anti neoliberal policies governing Zimbabwe.

He stood toe to toe against the regime when he was President of the Labour movement.

Congratulatory messages have started pouring in from various organisations and activists saluting and wishing the new chairperson well.

He will be deputized by Busi Dube while ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure will be spokesperson.

More to follow…

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance vice president Hon Tendai Biti castigated the Zanu PF regime for bombing the Gukurahundi memorial site.

Hon Biti also accused the regime of capturing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.

“On #MakoMonday we welcome back
@MakomboreroH
. Incarcerated for 12 months for simply standing up for truth & justice . This surely is a pathetic fascist tin pot regime. Fortunately the days of tyranny are numbered .

Constitutional obligations can not be avoided and only to be met by a pathetic meaningless apology . Truth is
@ZECzim
is a completely captured institution that is incapable of delivering a free fair credible & legitimate election,” wrote Hon Biti on Twitter.

He added:
“The continued destruction of Gukurahundi memorial plaques & cites is sick & repulsive. It epitomizes everything wrong about Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and his short troubled reign . It’s a nutshell of everything wrong about present day Zimbabwe post the 2017 coup . #Shame.”

By- Zvishavane resident magistrate Mr Archie Wochiunga has remanded Laida Mwedzi and her daughter Gladys Shava in custody after the two appeared before him on charges of attempted murder.

The charges arose after the two attacked the daughter’s lover and “circumcised” him as punishment for accidentally spilling an illicit brew they were drinking.

Mwedzi (45) and Shava (26) from Vengai Village in the Mazvihwa area were not asked to plead, and were remanded in custody to January 17.

Mr Wochiunga advised them to apply for bail at the High Court.

The mother and daughter are accused of attempting to kill Onias Hove (46), whom they allegedly knocked unconscious after striking him on the head with an empty beer bottle and subsequently cutting off his foreskin with a broken bottle on Christmas Day.

It was the State’s case that at around 6PM on Christmas Day, Mwedzi and Hove got into an argument at her homestead after he accidentally spilled an illicit brew known as Double Punch, which they were drinking.

An incensed Mwedzi allegedly grabbed an empty beer bottle and struck Hove once on the head and he collapsed.

Her daughter Shava allegedly jumped on Hove and choked him until he lost consciousness.

They allegedly used a broken beer bottle to cut off Hove’s foreskin while he was still unconscious.

When he regained consciousness, Mwedzi and Shava threatened Hove with more unspecified harm if he sought medical attention or reported the matter to police, promising to use traditional medicine to heal his wound.

Hove, however, reported the matter to the police when he left their homestead resulting in the arrest of the mother and daughter pair.

Mr Isheanesu Mashayanye appeared for the State.

Chronicle

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police has announced the recovery of seven out of the 95 CSC branded cattle that were stolen from the state enterprise.

Below is the ZRP statement to this effect:

/3 Police in Mat South are appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Brighton Siziba of Tibeli area, Guyu in connection with a case of Stock Theft which occurred between 28/04/21 and 21/11/21 at CSC Dubani ranch, Colleen Bawn where 95 cattle valued at USD60 000

2/3 were stolen. On 07/01/21, during a follow up of the case, Police recovered seven branded cattle from the suspect’s kraal, all valued at USD4 200. The cattle were positively identified by the complainant and the suspect fled from the scene.

2/3 were stolen. On 07/01/21, during a follow up of the case, Police recovered seven branded cattle from the suspect’s kraal, all valued at USD4 200. The cattle were positively identified by the complainant and the suspect fled from the scene.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) January 10, 2022

By-The European Union (EU) has agreed to lift the air travel ban on southern African countries to allow more travel to resume.

France, which holds the rotating EU presidency, announced the western bloc’s decision on tweeter.

“Member States have agreed this morning at IPCR meeting to lift the emergency break to allow air travel to resume with southern African countries. Travellers from this area will still be subject to the health measures applicable to travellers from third countries,” tweeted France.

EU had suspended most air travel from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The union maintained the limits even after cases continued to surge around the world, despite an outcry from the region.

-Agencies

By- MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora is said to have failed to find candidates to represent his party in the March 26 council by-elections in various parts of Matabeleland and Midlands.

According to documents seen by Harare Open Council, the party has multiple areas which have absolutely no candidate to represent them.

These include Kusile Rural District Council (RDC) in both Wards 15 and 19, Beitbridge Ward 6, Umzingwane RDC Ward 20, Gwanda Ward 7 and Insiza Ward 11.

The party has also failed to get candidates for Mbizo Ward 12, Zibagwe Ward 8, Gokwe North Ward 23 and Mberengwa West for Ward 25 and 34.

Takawira Ward 3 and Guruve Ward 7 in Mash Central also have no candidates for the party.

Other provinces in which the party has failed to get candidates include Zvimba, Chegutu and Mhondoro Mubaira in Mash West.

Mwonzora has also not fared well in Manicaland failing to get candidates for Makoni Ward 4, Mutare Ward 9 and Ward 17.

The party has however received numerous applications from candidates intending to contest in parts of Harare and Marondera.

Mwonzora has previously been accused of seeking to have the elections scrapped in a clandestine meeting with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

According to reports, the former MDC Secretary-General is in favour of a Government of National Unity (GNU).

More: Harare Open Council

By- Former Gweru mayor and councillor for ward 1, Hamutendi Kombayi has bounced back as the city’s mayor.

Kombayi polled 11 votes against Martin Chivoko’s 4 votes in an election which was held at the Town House this morning.

The elections were held following the recent recall of Councillor Josiah Makombe by the Douglas Monzora led MDC-T.

-Herald

By- Armed robbers raided a Mashwede Holdings food court in Southlea Park, Harare, early Monday morning and got away with a safe containing over US$5 000 after attacking some security guards manning the premises.

No arrests have been made and police detectives from the CID Homicide are still looking for the suspects.

Although the details were still sketchy, sources close to the investigations said the gang raided the premises at around 1 am before attacking the security guards manning the premises.

They then broke into one of the offices and took away the safe that contained the money before disappearing.

A manhunt has since been launched for the robbers.

Mashwede Holdings was in 2020 raided by robbers who got away with over US$100 000, R42 000, $14 000 worth of fuel coupons, firearms and 20 live rounds of ammunition. 

In that incident, Conwell Junior Kasambarare (26), believed to be part of the famous Musa Taj Abdul gang, Spicer Takawira and Musafare Mupamhanga are alleged to be part of the gang that robbed the premises. He was arrested.

Kasambarare who is facing multiple robbery and housebreaking charges failed to turn up in court for his latest remand hearing last Tuesday, prompting the issuance of a warrant of arrest and police have launched a manhunt for him, yet again. 

More: The Herald

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has struggled to explain why they postponed the Mobile Voter Registration process.

Below is ZEC’s statement issued by their Acting Chief Elections Officer J. P. Chigidji:
Postponement of Mobile Voter Registration After consultations with other critical players in voter registration, the mobile voter registration exercise pencilled for 06 December 2021 has been postponed to February 2022. The need to uphold inclusivity, which is one of the Commission’s core values, has necessitated this postponement.
This deferment is meant to allow all eligible stakeholders to acquire national identity cards, which are requisite for voter registration.

The period initially slated for the voter registration exercise would have excluded some stakeholders without national identity cards.
The postponement will also give Civil Registry enough time to prepare for issuance of identity documents to a large population within a specified period.

HIGH Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi will on Tuesday 25 January 2022 preside over the hearing and determination of an application filed by some prisoners seeking an order compelling Zimbabwean authorities to allow them to vote during elections.

In the application which was filed in June 2017, but is being heard now after the presiding Judge Justice Clement Phiri passed on in January 2021 after reserving judgment in July 2018, the prisoners want the High Court to issue an order compelling Justice, Legal and
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) Chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba and ZEC as the elections management body, to register them on the national voters roll and facilitate their voting on election day.

The prisoners, Yvonne Musarurwa, Tungamirai Madzokere and Last Maengahama, who have since been released from Chikurubi Female Prison and Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison, and are represented by Advocate Tererai Mafukidze, instructed by Jeremiah Bamu of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, argued that since the period that they had been in
prison detention from 2011, ZEC had neither carried out any voter education, including voter registration nor enabled prisoners to vote during the several general and by-elections which were held in Zimbabwe.

Musarurwa, Madzokere and Maengahama argued that they were asserting their constitutional rights particularly the right to vote in elections and referendums as enshrined in Section 67 (3) (a) of the Constitution.

They argued that they are entitled to exercise their political rights regardless of their status as detainees.

By A Correspondent| Former Tourism minister Walter Mzembi has slammed President Emmerson Mnangagwa for appointing the now dismissed State Security minister Owen Ncube saying he never understood how he chose him for a ministerial appointment.

Mzembi said Mudha is a clown with the modicum of intellect and statecraft to assume such a position.

“Of all Murambwi ‘ s Ministerial appointments this one I never understood ! A Minister must have a modicum of intellect and statecraft beyond feigned loyalties , the reasons cited in discharging him clearly affirm this . A clown !,” said Mzembi on Twitter.

Of all Murambwi ' s Ministerial appointments this one I never understood ! A Minister must have a modicum of intellect and statecraft beyond feigned loyalties , the reasons cited in discharging him clearly affirm this . A clown ! pic.twitter.com/furcUIZxDg

— Dr Walter Mzembi (@waltermzembi) January 10, 2022

 Harare Zimbabwe, January 11, 2022 –

A global network of humanitarian agencies has today announced the purchase of an innovative insurance policy in partnership with African Risk Capacity (ARC) and the Government of Zimbabwe. 

The policy is to protect more than 800,000 people in Zimbabwe from drought risk during the 2021/2022 agricultural season.  The $2.5 million USD policy purchased by Start Network and provided by African Risk Capacity, is built on parametric insurance.

This means it pays out before a crisis, according to pre-agreed scientific triggers, based for example on rainfall data. Unlike the standard humanitarian model, in which aid agencies receive funding only after a crisis has hit, the approach enables governments and their partners to plan for and respond before the worst effects of a drought are felt, thereby saving more lives and livelihoods.

Start Network members involved in this initiative in Zimbabwe and the potential implementing partners (in the event a pay-out is made) are; Action Aid Zimbabwe, Action Contre La Faim/Action Against Hunger, CAFOD, Catholic Relief Services, GOAL, Plan International, Tearfund, Trocaire and World Vision Zimbabwe (WVZ). 

Local non-governmental organisations are participating in the planning and will also lead on the response to continue enhancing locally led humanitarian action. These include Zimbabwe Project Trust (ZIMPRO), Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ), Family AIDS Counselling Trust (FACT) Zimbabwe, Nutrition Action Zimbabwe (NAZ), Simukai Children Protection and Caritas Bulawayo/Gokwe/Hwange/Masvingo/Mutare.

All planning will happen alongside the Government of Zimbabwe and UN-WFP, who also signed a policy with African Risk Capacity. If the policies pay out, the Government of Zimbabwe, Start Network members, and other development partners and non-governmental organisations will deliver complementary programmes of support to ensure the widest number of the most at-risk are supported. The Honourable Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Professor Mthuli Ncube, welcomed the support from Start Network.

He highlighted how the Government of Zimbabwe continues to promote a shift from reactive response to a proactive approach to managing disaster risks such as drought. Hon M. Ncube said, 

“Parametric insurance delivers timely financial relief before natural disasters strike. After receiving complementary support from UN-WFP as a replica partner in Pools VI and VII, the partnership with Start Network will make Zimbabwe the first ARC Member Country to have two Replica partners for the current Pool VIII. This demonstrates the trust our partners have in Zimbabwe’s disaster risk management approach with the ARC Group.” 

Speaking on behalf of the African Risk Capacity Group, Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Director-General/UN-ASG praised the strong alignment among the partners that made the initiative possible. He said, 

“The human impacts of natural disasters can only be meaningfully mitigated through smart partnerships harnessing the resources of multiple actors for holistic solutions. We salute the strong leadership of the Government of Zimbabwe in the continued show of confidence in the ARC mechanism. Parametric insurance, such as provided by ARC Limited, remains one of the best risk transfer tools because it ensures a quick mobilisation of relief efforts upon the trigger of a disaster event. We are very optimistic that the rest of the continent will embrace the culture of preparedness and early action as we march in solidarity towards a climate resilient Africa.” 

Start Network’s Disaster Risk Finance Coordinator for Zimbabwe/Start Fund Regional Advisor-East and Southern Africa, Nelly Maonde, commenting on the initiative said, 

“It is time more support goes towards proactive and not only reactive models of humanitarian action. We have seen great success following two years of running a similar programme in Senegal and we anticipate the same success for Zimbabwe. For too long we have seen the consequences of waiting for the risk to turn into a crisis first before we act – this only leads to suffering. By proactively managing disaster risks, more lives can be saved, more livelihood assets can be protected, vulnerable groups can be spared from resorting to negative coping strategies undermining their future potential and resilience.” 

World Vision Zimbabwe (WVZ) National Director, Assan Golowa said, “

We are happy to host the network coordination in Zimbabwe. As WVZ, we have responded through Start Network many times including the typhoid response under WASH in Bulawayo, urban cash response in Norton and notably during Cyclone Idai, one of our most unprecedented disasters in Zimbabwe. Many other Start Network members in Zimbabwe have been recipients of Start Network funds for various other emergency responses and anticipatory actions, contributing to saving lives and minimising the suffering of Zimbabweans. We look forward to the continued collaboration among the network members and other disaster risk finance initiatives in Zimbabwe”.

A similar policy was purchased in Senegal for the 2019/2020 growing season and a $10.6 million USD pay-out meant that more than 300,000 people were supported.

The new policy signing in Zimbabwe is part of Start Network’s aim to revolutionise the aid sector by catalysing new ways of preparing for crises and thereby helping to create more resilient communities.  

This initiative is funded by Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) Development Bank on behalf of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation (BMZ) and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

Start Network is comprised of approximately 55 members globally with 20 operating in Zimbabwe. 

Distributed by African Media Agency on behalf of StartNetwork

First Mutual Life Assurance Company, is inviting suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill two Harare-based vacancies of Client Relationship Consultant that have arisen within the company.

Below is the job advert:

Job Specification

• Coordinating and managing partnerships/bancassurance – developing strong relationships with the requisite partners’ network, identifying the key decision-makers and movers within the organizations help to move marketing campaigns and initiatives forward

• Delivering company’s value propositions and insights to the partnership programme, e.g., market/consumer surveys, behavioural economics support, reinsurance collaboration, product review.

• Leading implementation of new products, product features or enhancements for the partnership programme; tracking performance and KPIs across the programme

• Planning, executing, and managing the partnership/bancassurance programme’s product insurance lifecycle and processes • Conducting client workshops for Administrators

• Resolving general policy queries on a daily basis.

• Analysing, segmenting, targeting, and positioning the clients on an ongoing basis.

• Growing existing business organically through conversion of legacy policies, upgrading policies and following up on existing stop orders to ensure all staff are on scheme.

• Identifying opportunities for potential business growth.

• Providing input for the formulation of the overall First Mutual Life Business CRM strategy.

Person Specification

• Degree in Marketing/ Insurance

• 1-year experience in the insurance industry

• Defensive driving certificate is a must

• Tech-Savvy

• Ability to build and maintain relationships

• Highly innovative

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Team Player

Candidates meeting the above criteria should forward their Curriculum Vitaes (CVs), copies of certificates and application letters to Group Human Resources via the following email address: [email protected] Applications should be sent bynot later than 13 January

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has issued a statement clarifying the reasons behind the postponement of the Mobile Voter Registration process.

The statement is issued after local media reported that the commission apologised for “depriving thousands of prospective first-time voters an opportunity to participate in the upcoming by-elections after it failed to provide adequate and accessible registration centres throughout the country.”

In a statement, ZEC said it communicated these reasons with stakeholders on 24 Nov 2021.

Below is the statement issued by ZEC’s Acting Chief Elections Officer J. P. Chigidji:

Postponement of Mobile Voter Registration After consultations with other critical players in voter registration, the mobile voter registration exercise pencilled for 06 December 2021 has been postponed to February 2022. The need to uphold inclusivity, which is one of the Commission’s core values, has necessitated this postponement.

This deferment is meant to allow all eligible stakeholders to acquire national identity cards, which are requisite for voter registration.

The period initially slated for the voter registration exercise would have excluded some stakeholders without national identity cards.

The postponement will also give Civil Registry enough time to prepare for issuance of identity documents to a large population within a specified period.

By A Correspondent- Armed robbers raided a Mashwede Holdings food court in Southlea Park, Harare early Monday morning and got away with a safe containing over US$5 000 after attacking some security guards manning the premises.

No arrests have been made and police detectives from the CID Homicide are still looking for the suspects.

Although the details were still sketchy, sources close to the investigations said the gang raided the premises at around 1 am before attacking the security guards manning the premises.

They then broke into one of the offices and took away the safe that contained the money before disappearing.

A manhunt has since been launched for the robbers.

Mashwede Holdings was in 2020 raided by robbers who got away with over US$100 000, R42 000, $14 000 worth of fuel coupons, firearms and 20 live rounds of ammunition.

In that incident, Conwell Junior Kasambarare (26), believed to be part of the famous Musa Taj Abdul gang, Spicer Takawira and Musafare Mupamhanga are alleged to be part of the gang that robbed the premises. He was arrested.

Kasambarare who is facing multiple robbery and housebreaking charges failed to turn up in court for his latest remand hearing last Tuesday, prompting the issuance of a warrant of arrest and police have launched a manhunt for him, yet again.-statemedia

By A Correspondent- A self-professed hooker has landed herself in hot water after she was arrested following a threesome with two minors aged 15 and 16.

The two juveniles, who cannot be named due to their ages, are alleged to have hired 23-year-old Nothabo Sibanda on 27 December following a night out. After negotiating on a charge for her services, the three went to Nothabo’s house in the Emthunzini suburb.

The three are alleged to have become intimate until the late hours. One of the boys later realised that it was too late for him to return home. At this point, both boys decided to spend the night at the lady of the night’s home.

While the two minors were sleeping at Nothabo’s house, one juvenile’s parents got worried and filed a police report that he was missing.

B-Metro reports that following some investigations, the police learned that the two were last seen in the company of Nothabo. The officers then tracked down the errant pair at Nothabo’s house. Upon being questioned, the teenagers revealed that they had hired Nothabo for her services.

She was arrested and charged with having sexual intercourse with minors. When Nothabo appeared before Western Commonage Court resident magistrate Shepherd Mnjanja, she was not asked to plead. However, she was released on free bail and remanded out of custody to next week on Tuesday for commencement of trial.

Last year, a self-professed hooker from Harare made headlines after she was arrested for bedding a 13-year-old boy.

26-year-old Precious Teya was initially denied bail when she appeared before Harare provincial magistrate Vongai Guwuriro facing indecent assault charges. She was directed to apply for bail at the High Court and remanded in custody.

She was later freed on $10,000 bail following a successful bail appeal at the High Court after Justice Tawanda Chitapi ruled that based on the evidence presented, the juvenile was a willing and consenting participant.

The case is still ongoing at the courts.

By -A South Africa-based Tsholotsho businessman, who hosted a party that was dubbed the “R1 million house warming party” in December in his rural home, has lost three brothers in a car accident in the neighbouring country.
The accident is said to have happened in Hammanskraal, northern Gauteng Province when the siblings together with a number of passengers were returning to South Africa from Zimbabwe.
Businessman, Mr Ndumiso Sibanda hosted a two-day classic party in Mathetshaneni Village on December 24 and 25 and over 20 musicians participated. The accident victims were traveling in a white Toyota GD6 vehicle.
Mathetshaneni village head Mr Philemon Ndlovu confirmed the deaths of the three brothers. He said the deaths have plunged his area into the mourning.

“We received news that they died in a car accident in South Africa on Saturday.
We gather the accident happened around 3am and from the little information we are getting, it seems the driver of the car might have slept resulting in the car overturning.
We are yet to be briefed fully on all details.
It is a very sad development in my area as the family had hosted a wonderful event in December which brought the community together,”said Mr Ndlovu.

He said the names of the deceased were Lucky Deep Tshuma, Mbekezeli Sibanda, and Sie Sibanda but was not able to give their ages.
When reached for comment from his base in South Africa, a distressed Mr Sibanda said: “Kunjalo mfowethu, kwenzakale mfowethu (Yes, it true. It happened my brother).”
Efforts to get more details from him were fruitless as he said he was still to come to terms with the development.
Councillor for the area, Clr Manager Sobani said he was yet to get details of the accident as he was attending a funeral in Plumtree.
“I will be back in Tsholotsho tomorrow. I am yet to get details of what transpired but it is an unfortunate development in my ward,” he said.
Mr Sibanda was hailed for supporting artistes at a time when the Covid-19 pandemic had grounded them.

-State media

By- The former Minister of State for National Security Owen Ncube was fired for promoting violence in the period running to the December 28 Zanu PF provincial elections in the Midlands province, the state media has revealed.

Mudha, during that period, is said to have sponsored internal party terror groups that caused havoc in Midlands.

Several party meetings in the Midlands province were aborted after vicious fights caused by the pro-Ncube faction had erupted.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa Monday, fired Ncube for what he only called “conduct that was deemed inappropriate for a Minister of Government”.

But the state media said Mudha was fired for sponsoring violence.

“Although no specific reason was given for the dismissal, there are reports he may have been removed for his role in recent political disturbances in the Midlands Province during Zanu PF’s provincial polls,” the Herald reports.

Political analyst and resource consultant for Chitepo School of Ideology, Mr Goodwine Mureriwa said the dismissal of Cde Ncube was a wakeup call for everyone in position to work in accordance with the mandate of their position.
“Though I am not privy to the reasons behind his dismissal, what I can say is that this is a wakeup call to everyone in positions of authority to work in accordance with the dictates of their jobs.
“President Mnangagwa has made it very clear that his administration will provide servant leadership, working for the people as well as serving in a manner that develops the country and the economy at large.
“The President is hands on and when he makes such a decision he will be fully aware of what is going on and maybe what the person was doing is at variance with what he was appointed for.

“In my view I think this will go a long way in reminding people, whatever positions they occupy that they should always work for the good of the party and Government, the President has shown that he will not hesitate to crack the whip for corrective measures,” said Mr Mureriwa.
Cde Ncube was first appointed to Government as Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in 2017.
The Gokwe Kana, House of Assembly member was re-assigned to head the Ministry of State for National Security in 2018, a position he held until his dismissal yesterday.

By- THe Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the death of a 75-year-old Zaka man who was fatally assaulted by his nephew early Sunday morning following an altercation over alleged witchcraft.

Hakufiwi Musiiwa was attacked at around 5am, allegedly by Norman Mutakayi (36) who wanted to force his uncle to consult a prophet.
Police said when Musiiwa refused, Mutakayi attacked him by striking his ribs, hands and legs with a wooden log and he sustained serious injuries.

He later died after being forced to walk for about 10km.
Mutakayi has since gone into hiding and police have asked anyone with information on his whereabouts to tell their nearest police station.
Violent deaths have been on the increase countrywide and recently national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged the public to respect the sanctity of human life.
Recently, police in Harare were investigating circumstances surrounding the death of Terence Dondo of St Mary’s Chitungwiza.

Dondo, who was a bar attendant, was 28 years old.
His body was recently found lying lifeless on a gravel road near Huruyadzo Shops, Chitungwiza, with some substances on the mouth and nose.
In a related suspected murder case, police were appealing for information surrounding the death of Mberikwazvo Bopoto (43) of Rockview East, Chitungwiza, who was reported missing on Christmas Day and later found dead the following day near a well along Hunyani River, Manyame Park in Chitungwiza.
The victim was bleeding from the nose and had a bruise on the back of the head.
Police in Norton were also investigating the circumstances surrounding the violent death of a woman whose body was found along the rail line near Family 24, with a deep cut on the head and blood stains all over the body.

-State media

By-Two Chinese nationals and a local man Monday appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court on allegations of altering a company’s registration documentation in a bid to elbow out the late firm owner’s wife, who is also a co-director, from its shareholding.

Zhang Suyi (36), Fan Xinhua (57) and Vengesai Mhlanga (45) denied the fraud charges when they appeared before magistrate Mrs Barbra Mateko, who remanded them in custody to January 18 for trial.

They are alternatively charged with violating the Companies and other Business Entity Act.

The trio are alleged to have altered Jiang Shan Civil Explosives (Pvt) Limited’s registration documents in a bid to elbow out Zhang Bin from its shareholding.

Zhang Bin co-owned Jiang Shan Civil Explosives (Pvt) with her late husband Dong Liu with 26.55 percent and 73.45 percent shareholding respectively, according to the State.