By A Correspondent- Over 6 people are feared dead after a haulage truck heading to Harare was involved in an accident at Nyama 1, a few kilometres to Hauna Growth Point in Honde Valley.

According to sources privy to the development, the accident occured last night.

However details of what really transpired were still sketchy by the time of writing with sources confirming that the curve where the accident occured is a dark spot.

“The accident occured right at the curve near the cemetery but just a few metres before the bridge.”

Efforts to get a comment from the police spokesperson was work in progress by the time of writing.

We publish below images from the accident scene.

More details follow…

By A Correspondent- A Rushinga man bedded his sister in bid to have her healed as directed by prophets.

David Jonasi of Chitange area performed the se_xual healing process on his married sister who had been unwell for some times before she was sent back to her patrimonial home for her family to help her get medical attention.

“I did that because I was so desperate to be healed of my illness and we performed the act three times – twice in the forest under a tree and the last one at home,” said Jonasi’s sister.

The incestuous case was unearthed by one Blessmore Mavura who was a boyfriend to Jonasi’s sister.

Mavura said he suspected an indecent act between Jonasi and his sister such that he tracked their movements and finally he arrived at Jonasi’s home during the night and he knocked the door expecting to get a response from his girlfriend but Jonasi replied him shouting.

“Jonasi fumed while inside his sister’s room.

“I called alarming the neighbours and some villagers gathered at Jonasi’s home to witness the act,” said Mavura.

Jonasi was manhandled by the mob and it was referred to Headman Chitsakani.

Headman Chitsakani fined them five beasts and five goats.

-HMetro

By A Correspondent- A young Rushinga wife who had been threatening her husband with committing suicide after being caught having adul_tery was finally allowed to separate after the boyfriend was fined by Chief’s Court.

Ruth Kamuriwo appeared before Chief Rusambo saying her husband Andrew Gwati had been neglecting her for almost nine months while staying in Harare.

“I need to know that we are still together or I’m no longer your wife?

“If so please I need to know the truth before this court,” said Kamuriwo.

Gwati said he was the one who was supposed to file for divorce not the wife who was caught cheating.

“I’m totally dumbfound.

“I am a victim of her misdeeds; she committed an adul_tery.

“When I was told that I kept my composure because I was away in Harare and I came home and she admitted to cheating.

“My wife threatened me to commit suicide if I disclosed the case to the people but I told my parents and my aunty and we forgave her,” said Gwati.

Gabriel Gwezere who is Kamuriwo’s boyfriend pleaded guilty and was fined three beasts.

Chief Rusambo also warned Gwati that he should not have hesitated to report his wife after committing such act.

By Nomusa Garikai- The sheer naivety of Zimbabwe’s opposition is certainly one of the top-five main reasons why the country is stuck is this economic mess and political paralysis – as both the ruling party and the opposition are clearly clueless how to get the nation out of the mess.

“This (the election of Hatiendi Hichilema in Zambia) encourages us to go and register to vote. It educates that the military, central Intelligence organisation officers and Police must know that they are employed by Zimbabweans not a political party,” said Felix Magalela Mafa Sibanda, MDC Alliance deputy spokesperson.

“In short that means institutions of government must be professional knowing that they work for the nation not a political organisation, because political ruler-ship may end.”

So, MDC A leaders acknowledge Zimbabwe’s institutions of government including the Army, Police, Judiciary and ZEC have NOT been professional. This would be seen as significant progress on the part of Nelson Chamisa and company, if only the leaders would remember and, better still, act on the realities.

Nelson Chamisa and his MDC friends certainly forgot, if they had ever acknowledged it, that Zimbabwe’s state institutions were not professional throughout the five years of the 2008 to 2013 GNU. How else other than forgetfulness can only explain why MDC leaders failed to implement even one reform to break the strangle hold Zanu PF has on all state institutions.

Of course, acknowledging that the Army, Police, etc. are not profession was one thing; knowing what must be done about it in another. It is disheartening to note that Mr Nelson Chamisa and his team are convinced what has happened in Zambia is enough to “educate” our Army, Police, ZEC, etc. that they are employed by the people and not Zanu PF! How naïve and gullible these MDC leaders are!

Thanks to MDC A’s naivety, Zanu PF is going ahead with its plans to blatantly rig the 2023 elections, confident the opposition will participate and thus give the vote rigging Zanu PF legitimacy.

“Chiefs in Zimbabwe have recently allegedly been trained as Zanu PF commissars at the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology to mobilise votes for the ruling party ahead of the 2023 elections, it has emerged,” reported Bulawayo 24 in one article.

So Zanu PF is going full steam ahead with one of the party’s flagship vote rigging plans – making sure rural areas remain Zanu PF stronghold where the rural voters have been reduced by these partisan Chiefs, other traditional leaders and Zanu PF operatives into medieval serfs beholden to the overbearing Landlords.

The rural voters have only once, in March 2008, dared to vote for the opposition. They were promptly punished in June 2008 run-off when Zanu PF launch a military the Operation “Mavhotera papi!” (Whom did you vote for!) The wanton violence that followed was one of the worst election violence the nation has ever seen, and Zanu PF operatives have threatened the violence will return if the people dared to reject Zanu PF ever again. 

“Mwonzora’s party was on Friday given $59 940 000 by the government while Zanu-PF got a whopping $140 million, igniting fresh debate about the MDC-T and MDC Alliance battle over the control of funds meant for parties with a sizeable representation in Parliament,” reported Bulawayo 24 in the next article.

The $60m above is MDC -T’s share of the annual Political Party Finance Act pay out; part and parcel of the Zanu PF bribe to entice the opposition to participate in the elections regardless how flawed and illegal the process gets. Mwonzora and his lot will certainly participate in the 2023 elections, the payment has whetted their appetited and are hungry for more. Chamisa and his lot are licking their dry lips with envy and will be desperate to win back some of the bait on offer.

It is the rock-solid guarantee that the opposition will participate in the elections no matter how flawed and illegal the process got that gives Zanu PF the confidence to ignore calls to implement reforms and blatantly rig the elections.

“Events in Zambia have taught Army they are employed by the people and not Zanu PF!” I cannot make up my mind whether MDC leaders are really that corrupt, incompetent and naïve or they are just conning the ignorant and desperate povo into believing this nonsense so they can get their reward from Zanu PF for getting the people to participate in the flawed elections and give Zanu PF legitimacy.

By A Correspondent- The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has closed accounts for widows and widowers, in a move the organisation says is meant to weed out ghost pensioners.

The move has however triggered an outcry as it affected genuine beneficiaries who say they could not register on time due to travel restrictions in the prevailing coronavirus environment.

In an interview with NewsDay on Sunday, Masvingo Pensioners Forum co-ordinator Charles Gonzi described the move as inconsiderate.

He said:

NSSA closed accounts for those with deceased husbands and wives who could not register on time.

We were told we needed to bring our children regardless of where we are coming from. In this COVID-19 pandemic, movement is very difficult. How are people supposed to travel in this environment?.

Gonzi said NSSA should have reached out to pensioners first before making the move. He added:

How are we supposed to register, they did not consider the inconveniences of travelling at such a time. NSSA should do outreach programmes so that everyone registers.

They just closed the accounts and said none will get money.

Contacted, NSSA deputy director of marketing Tendai Mutseyekwa said they carried out an outreach programme to register pensioners.

Said Mutseyekwa:

We carried a programme between April and June. The life certificate renewal exercise was published everywhere, including on radios. We set up offices everywhere in the country and we reached pensioners everywhere in the country.

The need to renew these certificates is to close ghost beneficiaries. We are trying to protect NSSA funds and the pensioners as well.

Mutseyekwa said they need proof in order for them to renew those certificates.

Pensioners in the country have been living like destitutes due to unsustainable payouts amid the economic crisis.

By A Correspondent- A Mwenezi family in Mukweva village under Chief Negari lost all its belongings to fire after an enraged South African based man allegedly torched their houses over failure to reconcile with his former wife who is a relative to that family.

The suspected arsonist, Edmore Chidhava is alleged to have followed his estranged wife of eight years who ran away from South Africa to seek refuge at her Uncle Katini Dhaimani’s place in Mwenezi on August 2, 2021.

Mukweva village head Elton Chauke confirmed the development saying the incident has left nine family members homeless because of the arson though they did not identify the assailant.

“The tragic incident occurred on Monday August 2 around midnight. The family lost several valuables. Katini Dhaimani’s main house, kitchen and cattle pen were set on fire by an unknown assailant but on that same day there was a misunderstanding between Dhaimani and his niece’s husband who had come to reconcile with his wife,” said Chauke.

A source close to the matter allege that Chidhava went to Dhaimani’s house to reconcile with his wife Enia Dhaimani.

“Chidhava came from South Africa and pretended to seek reconciliation with his wife Enia. The uncle could not give in to Chidhava’s demands for reconciliation as he advised him to go and come back with his family members, while the ‘in-laws’ made their own consultations as a family before deciding on the matter.

“He went away but is suspected to have come back later at night with about four litres of petrol which he used to raze down the houses and the cattle pen,” said the source.

Dhaimaini said Chidhava visited him on Saturday and left on Monday morning after threatening him.

“He came during the weekend and told me that he wanted to reconcile with my niece Enia who was his wife of eight years. I advised him to bring his relatives after which he left on Monday morning after threatening me with unspecified action. On that same day at midnight we woke up to fire gutting our houses down,” Dhaimani said.

The matter was reported to Neshuro Sub Office police station who attended the scene a day later.

It is said the two had been facing marital problems for quite some time, which resulted in the wife leaving him some weeks ago to seek refuge at her uncle’s place.

Dhaimani is appealing for well-wishers to assist him with food, money, blankets, clothes, kitchen utensils and other essential goods.

He can be contacted on +263 77 449 6146.

-TellZim

By A Correspondent- The MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa has lambasted the Douglas Mwonzora-led MDC-T for claiming its name.

Last week Mwonzora said he held a meeting with the MDC Alliance principals which his party dubbed the MDC Alliance Leadership Forum.

However, Welshman Ncube and Tendai Biti who were the major principals when the alliance was signed were not part of the meeting held at Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House.

---

MDC Alliance deputy spokesperson Felix Magalela Sibanda told a local publication that they are not bothered by Mwonzora’s purported meeting with MDC Alliance principals, describing him as a ZANU PF puppet and opportunist.

Sibanda said:

No one should be bothered by this known puppet and opportunist, Douglas Mwonzora. He is adhering to his mandate by ZANU PF to cause more harm to the people’s agenda by some progressive political parties, like the genuine MDCA headed by Adv Chamisa.

ZANU PF is panicking about the fresh momentum by Adv Chamisa and MDC A to change the status quo.

Mwonzora is digging graves in his stupid mind and belief that the dead have magic wounds to oil his defunct MDC T at all costs.

He said as a people’s party, the MDC-A is focused on improving all Zimbabweans economically without discrimination.

Added Sibanda:

Our main objective is to let people enjoy their constitutional and human rights and be able to elect their own government in 2023, not otherwise.

Mathematically 1 000000 x 0 = 0 ( zero). Therefore, those flight by night political parties are inconsequential to our mandate.

By A Correspondent- Norton’s Member of Parliament Temba Mliswa (independent) says successive Zanu PF governments have dismally failed to look after war veterans since 1980.

In a statement on his Twitter page, Mliswa said it was despicable how a government run by war veterans fail to look after its own.

This comes after nine war veterans were arrested when they allegedly demonstrated at Finance minister Mthuli Ncube’s office, demanding better pensions.

“This war veterans issue has triggered a lot and revealed how they need to liberate themselves. Government has failed to look after them, failing to deliver basics such as healthcare since 1980,” Mliswa wrote.

“It is ironic and pitiful how a government run by war veterans has failed to look after their own. They were once given money from the United Nations way back, but it was squandered and the government later had to go into a national fiasco after they demonstrated.”

Mliswa also took aim at the fawning culture in Zimbabwe politics

“Critiquing policies should not be generally redacted and framed as personal attacks,” Mliswa said.

“Now, if a leader was surrounded by people whose expertise is all about gossip it is a problem. They can only give what they have and are. The result is that this will be seen in the actions and policies.”

Mliswa said the government had focused on pleasing white farmers by compensating them while its own people were suffering.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Zambia’s newly-elected president Hakainde Hichilema has sacked Commanders of the Zambia Army, Air Force, National Service, and Inspector General of Police and appointed new Service Chiefs in their place.

Rights groups accused Hichilema’s predecessor Edgar Lungu of leading a “brutal crackdown” on dissent, with police violence claiming at least five lives since he was officially elected in 2016.

In a Sunday night announcement from his residency in new Kasama, Hichilema thanked those that served and called on Zambian citizens to respect them as they have served the country with diligence and urged that they be not demonised.

---

President Hichilema appointed Zambia Army Deputy Commander Dennis Alibuzwi as Army Commander and consequently promoted him to the rank of Lieutenant General with immediate effect.

Lieutenant General Alibuzwi replaces Lieutenant General William Sikazwe who served as Zambia Army Commander for two years and eight months since his appointment in 2018.

Hichilema recalled Brigadier General Geoffrey Zyeele and appointed him as the new Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, and consequently elevated him to the rank of Major General.

At the Zambia Air Force (ZAF), Hichilema retired Air Commander, Lieutenant General David Muma and replaced him with Brigadier General Collins Barry, who he subsequently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-General.

Further, Brigadier General Oscar Nyoni has been appointed as ZAF Deputy Commander and has been promoted to the rank of Major General.

President Hichilema also made changes at the Zambia National Service (ZNS) by relieving ZNS Commandant Lieutenant General Nathan Mulenga of his duties and replacing him with Brigadier General Patrick Solochi, who has since been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-General.

Lieutenant General Patrick Solochi will be deputised by now Major General Reuben Mwewa who was before this appointment and subsequent promotion, at the rank of Brigadier General.

Meanwhile, the President recalled and appointed Remmy Kajoba as new Inspector General of Police, replacing Kakoma Kanganja.

Hichilema appointed Milner Muyambango to the position of Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of operations and also appointed Doris Chibombe as Deputy Inspector General in charge of administration.-LusakaTimes

By A Correspondent- Daglous Mwonzora of the MDC-T is planning to recall more than five members of parliament from the Nelson Chamisa’s MDC Alliance.

Mwonzora is targeting Chamisa’s Matabeleland North lieutenants.

Morgen Dube, the party’s Matabeleland North provincial chairman, recently wrote to the MDC-T top leadership that included Mwonzora demanding the recalls saying they were “no longer serving the party interests.”

It has emerged that Hwange Central legislator Daniel Molekele is one of the officials targeted for recall.

“We kindly request the recall of a member of the Upper House of Assembly, House of Assembly member, provincial council members, and local government members as listed below,” he said.

The said members are no longer serving the party interests but have shown allegiance to the MDC Alliance.

Provincial council members who are set to be recalled include Caroline Ndlovu, George Siachuma, Sharon Ndlovu and Chiratidzo Mdimba.

Councillors targeted for recalls include Steve Chisvosve, Salome Chirwa, Teresa Mtara, Tendai Sibanda, Bakani Kwidini, and Edmore Zhou from Hwange West and Central constituencies.

Dube said the provincial executive had tried to persuade the officials to join Mwonzora’s camp to no avail as the mentioned individuals continued to contribute and attend MDC Alliance meetings.
Molokele said he “does not care at all” adding that he was “more than ready to be recalled. I remain 100 per cent behind Advocate Nelson Chamisa.”
Posts of recalled legislators and councillors are likely to remain vacant as by-elections were suspended indefinitely over the prevalence of the coronavirus pandemic.

VIDEO LOADING BELOW

https://youtu.be/365WQN4YY40

A notorious ZANU PF Councillor is caught in the act after accepting a dummy brand new Pajero as a reward for killing MDC Alliance members in Mhondoro Ngezi. VIDEO LOADING BELOW…

https://youtu.be/365WQN4YY40

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have arrested 45 146 people for border jumping.

The police said that number has been reached since January 2021.

By A Correspondent- MDC-T is planning to expel several of Nelson Chamisa’s MDC Alliance lawmakers.

The Douglas Mwonzora’s political outfit wants to recall is reportedly the senators, parliamentarians, and councillors from Matabeleland North for their Nelson Chamisa.

MDC-T has been on a spree of recalling MDC Alliance members since Chamisa’s ascendancy to power following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in 2018.

Morgen Dube, the party’s Matabeleland North provincial chairman, recently wrote to the MDC-T top leadership that included Mwonzora demanding the recalls saying they were “no longer serving the party interests.”

It has emerged that Hwange Central legislator Daniel Molekele is one of the officials targeted for recall.

“We kindly request the recall of a member of the Upper House of Assembly, House of Assembly member, provincial council members, and local government members as listed below,” he said.

The said members are no longer serving the party interests but have shown allegiance to the MDC Alliance.

Provincial council members who are set to be recalled include Caroline Ndlovu, George Siachuma, Sharon Ndlovu and Chiratidzo Mdimba.

Councillors targeted for recalls include Steve Chisvosve, Salome Chirwa, Teresa Mtara, Tendai Sibanda, Bakani Kwidini, and Edmore Zhou from Hwange West and Central constituencies.

Dube said the provincial executive had tried to persuade the officials to join Mwonzora’s camp to no avail as the mentioned individuals continued to contribute and attend MDC Alliance meetings.
Molokele said he “does not care at all” adding that he was “more than ready to be recalled. I remain 100 per cent behind Advocate Nelson Chamisa.”
Posts of recalled legislators and councillors are likely to remain vacant as by-elections were suspended indefinitely over the prevalence of the coronavirus pandemic.

By A Correspondent- Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba brewed another diplomatic storm after attacking the United States of America.

Charamba at the weekend on his @Jamwanda2 Twitter account celebrated the end of the tenure of the US ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Brian Nichols.

Nichols was critical of the regime and would demonise Zanu PF’s misgovernance of and human rights abuses.

Nichols is leaving Zimbabwe after completing his diplomatic mission tenure in Zimbabwe.

https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1431455324054163461

Tinashe Sambiri|President Nelson Chamisa has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy is blocking economic progress and meaningful transformation.

The MDC Alliance leader also urged young people to register to vote in numbers as “change is unavoidable in Zimbabwe.”

Speaking to ZimEye.com in an exclusive interview on Tuesday before attending President Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration, President Chamisa said:

“The legitimacy crisis in Zimbabwe is deterring economic progress and the much needed transformation.
Zimbabwe is a disputed State.”

President Chamisa added:” I am appealing to young people to register to vote. My message to young people is simple, your country needs you.

President Hichilema’s victory is a sign of great things to come, Zimbabwe we are next, victory is certain.

We will not disappoint you. Our citizens general deserve better lives.”

By A Correspondent- President of the Senate, Mabel Chinomona has asked President Emmerson Mnangagwa to take action against ministers who have been absconding Parliament.

On Thursday, during the question and answer session, Chinomona tasked the leader of the Senate, Monica Mutsvangwa, who is the Information minister, to notify Mnangagwa that some ministers were increasingly failing to attend parliamentary sessions without providing any reasons.

Ministers are constitutionally required to field questions from senators every Thursday afternoon, but the majority of them never attend the sessions when legislators have to ask questions on key policy issues.

Last Thursday, there were only four ministers and two deputy ministers in attendance, leaving senators with no one to respond to their questions.

Senator Morgen Komichi (MDC-T) said it had become routine that the ministers would snub the Parliament business every week, hence there was need for authorities to bring the negative habit to an end.

He named Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga and the Health minister, whom he said was heading a key ministry, but was not in attendance, hence it was important to ensure that if he was engaged with other businesses, his deputy John Mangwiro always attended to respond to some issues in his ministry.

“My question is very simple, Madam President. Every Thursday, we raise our complaint over the attendance of ministers, that they are not taking this business seriously,” Komichi said.

“They are not taking it as one of the duties that they should discharge to the people of Zimbabwe. On Tuesday, there was a Cabinet meeting, do we get such excuses? I think the answer is a very simple, no, because they plan that they will all attend and they are 90% present. All these ministers have their own deputies, but there are a few deputy ministers here. Does it mean that on Thursday, when we have such an important occasion in the country, all the ministers will be busy?”

Chinomona said she concurred with Komichi that ministers were taking Cabinet business more seriously than they did the Senate.

“If I may support what Hon. Senator Komichi said, it is not only the Cabinet, but the National Assembly, ministers make sure they do attend,” Chinomona said.

“That one I have noticed. Also, it is no use to have someone send an apology every Thursday yet he has never attended the Senate. If I may ask the honourable minister and leader of the House, would you please make sure that the President knows about this and he gives us an answer? We send you because you represent us in Cabinet.”

-Newsday

Police are investigating a murder case in which a ten-year-old boy died after being assaulted by a thirteen-year-old boy while playing football in Glenview in Harare.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) posted on its Twitter handle saying the boy died at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals a fortnight after the assault. Said ZRP:

Police in Harare are investigating circumstances surrounding a murder case in which a male juvenile (10) died upon admission at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals on 25/08/21.

The victim was assaulted by the suspect (13) while playing football at a borehole in Glenview on 10/08/21.

The incident happened when football is banned under COVID-19 lockdown level four which has been in effect for months now.

The government recently extended the lockdown by a further two weeks despite a decline in new coronavirus infections and deaths in recent weeks.- Pindula News

MDC Alliance supporters in Chimanimani have claimed that Zanu PF officials have threatened to deny them free agricultural inputs under the presidential input scheme if they don’t support President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s re-election bid.

Zanu PF is mobilising to raise five million voters for the 2023 general elections.

MDC Alliance Manicaland spokesperson David Panganai said, ahead of the 2023 polls, there were growing fears of human rights violations by ruling party supporters, with the opposition supporters being intimidated and sometimes beaten up.

“I have reports of intimidation around Manicaland and Chimanimani in particular,” Panganai said.

“They are being told at meetings that if they do not vote for Zanu PF, they are not going to receive presidential inputs or they will be beaten.

“We have reports that our supporters are being asked by Zanu PF supporters to surrender their registration details so that they will get land. Why do they need registration details? This is clear intimidation.”

Founder of Young Entrepreneurs Trust Zimbabwe, Fungai Nhaitai, said he was manhandled by unknown persons who claimed that he was mobilising youths in Mutare to vote against Zanu PF.

A member of a local non-governmental organisation, Rutendo Gwawu, who also attended a meeting organised by Nhaitai was caught up in the storm.

Gwawu said he was taken outside the meeting by some people impersonating the police and quizzed over his political affiliation.

Zimbabwe has a history of human rights abuses towards elections.

But Zanu PF Manicaland acting secretary for administration Misheck Mugadza said: “These are lies, we are a democratic party. We are focusing on mobilising five million votes ahead of the 2023 elections. New dispensation does not abuse people, MDC supporters should come and get presidential inputs and land.”- NewsDay

CHIRUMANZI-Fani Maringwa who is father to former Dynamos midfield maestro, Football Union of Zimbabwe boss, Desmond Gazza Maringwa has died.

Maringwa who was 74 years old died at Kopje 24 Hour Hospital on August 25 due to Covid-19 complications, his son, Galven Maringwa told The Mirror.

“Our father contracted Covid-19 while in Chirumanzi and we transferred him to Masvingo and was admitted at Kopje 24 Hour Hospital where he died.

“He was the pillar of strength in the family, supportive and very hardworking. He worked very closely with all his children until they established their own families. We will miss his advice and leadership,” said Galven.

Maringwa was laid to rest at his homestead in Maringwa Village in Chirumanzi on August 26.

Maringwa had an illustrious career as a teacher where he spent 37 years moving from one province to another imparting knowledge to future generations.

He taught in Buhera, Mashamba among others and retired while at Shashe Primary in Chirumanzi and by the time of his death he was a communal farmer.

Maringwa is survived by his wife, nine children and several grandchildren.- Masvingo Mirror

By A Correspondent- Teachers unions have warned of unprecedented school dropouts as parents struggle to raise school fees following a government-imposed 33% hike for the extended term.

Schools reopen today for examination classes, but parents have accused the government of ambushing them as they were given only four days to raise fees and related costs for the new term.

Permanent secretary in the Primary and Secondary Education ministry Tumisang Thabela said government had approved schools fees increases on a pro rata basis, which translates to a 33% hike, since the term was 80 days long, unlike the usual 60 days of an ordinary term.

In the circular, Thabela said examination classes would attend schools everyday while the rest of the learners will be alternating to allow adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Teacher representatives, however, notified government that it was unlikely their members would attend lessons today as they were incapacitated.

They urged government to utilise part of the funds received by the government from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the Special Drawing Rights to revamp the education sector.

According to the new calendar announced by government, non-examination classes will reopen on September 6, 2021 and schools will close on December 17, 2021 for all learners.

Amalgamated Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) mobilised teachers and parents to stage a demonstration today, saying they were all not prepared for the reopening.

“We conducted a snap survey among parents in Zimbabwe’s 72 education districts and the result showed that the parents were not ready for schools to reopen because they can’t afford the fees being charged,” Artuz president Orbet Masaraure said.

“There are various outstanding issues, hence reopening of schools will be a flop. Both teachers and parents are incapacitated. The COVID-19 lockdowns wiped away citizens’ savings and teachers have not been spared. The date of the reopening of schools was announced at a time teachers had already used up their meagre earnings. By the way, teachers don’t last for a day with their salaries. Teachers have a significant number of children in school and they can’t afford to pay for their fees, let alone travel to their work places.”

Zimbabwe National Teachers Union chief executive Manuel Nyawo said government’s policy guidelines on reopening schools were vague and likely to cause confusion.

Nyawo wrote a letter to Thabela, dated August 27, 2021, demanding that government revise the guidelines and address concerns raised by teachers on salaries and working conditions to ensure smooth reopening of schools.

“We would be happy madam if you will give clarity on more serious concerns regarding the reopening of schools,” Nyawo said.

“Our members, including those from sister unions, are disgruntled. It should not surprise you if you get the usual bad news that there is no effective teaching and learning in schools as teachers are generally disgruntled over salaries. You allowed schools to technically increase fees under a naive argument that is devoid of logic, but you could not demand that teachers should be paid reasonably in order to motivate them as they go back to work.”

Zimbabwe Teachers Association secretary-general Goodwill Taderera bemoaned lack of COVID-19 statistics to inform stakeholders about the preparedness of schools for reopening.

“We believe that more consultations could have been done in order to ensure that stakeholders such as staff associations, parents, donors and communities are involved in mobilising resources, to ensure that schools run smoothly amid the COVID-19 pandemic,”Taderera said.

Education Coalition of Zimbabwe acting national co-ordinator Clemence Nhliziyo told NewsDay that there was need to invest in the education sector using part of the IMF grant in procuring personal protective equipment (PPEs) and making sure that schools were safe.

Some parents were sceptical that the schools would reopen because as the impasse between teachers and government over salaries was unresolved. Some said they had failed to raise fees for their children as there had been limited industrial activity during the
COVID-19 lockdown.

Others raised concern over the safety of their children as they were financially incapable of providing enough PPE as required by government.

Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing recently, Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa said when schools opened, parents would be asked to help government by providing PPE.

Government has also imposed mandatory vaccination by barring its uninoculated workers from workplaces but has remained mum on unvaccinated teachers, amid reports that majority of them had not yet received their jabs.

Contacted for comment Thabela said she was not aware of the government position on unvaccinated teachers. She said she had been out of office and referred questions to ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro.

“I am travelling and I have been out of the office,”Thabela said.

“The spokesperson might know whether there is any communication from the relevant ministries on that issue.”

Ndoro’s number was not reachable.-

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The government has implored schools not to send pupils home for failure to pay the full amount of fees on time but to make payment plans with parents and guardians.

Speaking to State media on Sunday, Primary and Secondary Education Ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro said they want all pupils to be allowed to attend classes while parents engage schools authorities on payment plans. Said Ndoro:

All things go ahead as both learners and teachers are ready for the resumption of examination classes.

In terms of school fees, schools are allowed to do payment plans with parents.

We want learners to go back to school first, parents should just engage authorities with their payment plans, but no one should be sent home.

The three examination classes, that is Grade Seven, Form Four and Upper Six resume in-person learning this Monday.

They have 80 lesson days in the 16 weeks, with no exeat weekends and no public holidays.

Other classes, which start next Monday, have 75 school days in a 15-week term.

Meanwhile, parents have bemoaned the rise in the prices of food and uniforms and a rise in schools fees.

They also said it was hard to prepare for their children given the short notice.

-statemedia

Tinashe Sambiri|President Nelson Chamisa has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy is blocking economic progress and meaningful transformation.

The MDC Alliance leader also urged young people to register to vote in numbers as “change is unavoidable in Zimbabwe.”

Speaking to ZimEye.com in an exclusive interview on Tuesday before attending President Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration, President Chamisa said:

“The legitimacy crisis in Zimbabwe is deterring economic progress and the much needed transformation.
Zimbabwe is a disputed State.”

President Chamisa added:” I am appealing to young people to register to vote. My message to young people is simple, your country needs you.

President Hichilema’s victory is a sign of great things to come, Zimbabwe we are next, victory is certain.

We will not disappoint you. Our citizens general deserve better lives.”

Tinashe Sambiri| MDC Alliance vice president Hon Tendai Biti has lampooned the clueless Zanu PF regime for “attempting to rig the economy.”

According to the former Finance Minister, economic growth without reforms is impossible.

Hon Biti also accused the Zanu PF regime of presenting false inflation figures.

“We submit once more that you can rig an election but not economy. You can create mascara of GDP growth rates or low inflation figures but like all mascara it can’t stand heat&water . Scrap the auction system , repeal SI 33/19 , SI142/19 , scrap the RBZ .Scrap #ZANU.

Many are naive enough to believe that there can be sustained real growth without structural reforms .This is not possible The Dutch auction system on which the regime & its acolytes pin all of hope of stabilization is rigged & a big fraud,” argued Hon Biti.

“The working families of Zimbabwe pay a further price of the rigged auction system in the form of inflation. The huge gap between the official exchange rate and the parallel market fuels inflation .Further with money being borrowed to finance the mirage of stability ….

…social services are suffering. Public health and public education are crippled .Civil servants are in a permanent stand off and teachers have withdrawn services for 2 years.There are no social safety nets. Covid and natural disasters have exposed structural vulnerabilities,” he added.

By A Correspondent- Two people died on the spot near Murambinda Growth Point on Saturday evening when Chief Chivese’s brand new Isuzu vehicle overturned.

The two were passengers, according to police sources.

Chief Chivese is admitted at Murambinda Hospital after sustaining serious injuries.

The vehicle is a write off… The accident happened when the traditional leader was driving to Mutare from Chikomba .

In an interview with The Mirror newspaper, Chief Chivese said :
“I am injured my child. I am in pain, can’t talk right now.”

The Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa distributed brand new ISuzu vehicles to traditional leaders across the country, hoping to bolster his 2023 Presidential Election campaign.

Police are investigating a murder case in which a ten-year-old boy died after being assaulted by a thirteen-year-old boy while playing football in Glenview in Harare.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) posted on its Twitter handle saying the boy died at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals a fortnight after the assault.

Said ZRP:

Police in Harare are investigating circumstances surrounding a murder case in which a male juvenile (10) died upon admission at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals on 25/08/21.

The victim was assaulted by the suspect (13) while playing football at a borehole in Glenview on 10/08/21.

The incident happened when football is banned under COVID-19 lockdown level four which has been in effect for months now.

The government recently extended the lockdown by a further two weeks despite a decline in new coronavirus infections and deaths in recent weeks.- Pindula News

By A Correspondent- MDC Alliance supporters in Chimanimani have claimed that Zanu PF officials have threatened to deny them free agricultural inputs under the presidential input scheme if they don’t support President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s re-election bid.

Zanu PF is mobilising to raise five million voters for the 2023 general elections.

MDC Alliance Manicaland spokesperson David Panganai said, ahead of the 2023 polls, there were growing fears of human rights violations by ruling party supporters, with the opposition supporters being intimidated and sometimes beaten up.

“I have reports of intimidation around Manicaland and Chimanimani in particular,” Panganai said.

“They are being told at meetings that if they do not vote for Zanu PF, they are not going to receive presidential inputs or they will be beaten.

“We have reports that our supporters are being asked by Zanu PF supporters to surrender their registration details so that they will get land. Why do they need registration details? This is clear intimidation.”

Founder of Young Entrepreneurs Trust Zimbabwe, Fungai Nhaitai, said he was manhandled by unknown persons who claimed that he was mobilising youths in Mutare to vote against Zanu PF.

A member of a local non-governmental organisation, Rutendo Gwawu, who also attended a meeting organised by Nhaitai was caught up in the storm.

Gwawu said he was taken outside the meeting by some people impersonating the police and quizzed over his political affiliation.

Zimbabwe has a history of human rights abuses towards elections.

But Zanu PF Manicaland acting secretary for administration Misheck Mugadza said: “These are lies, we are a democratic party. We are focusing on mobilising five million votes ahead of the 2023 elections. New dispensation does not abuse people, MDC supporters should come and get presidential inputs and land.”- NewsDay

By A Correspondent- Former Zanu Pf heavyweight Killer Zivhu has scoffed at Douglas Mwonzora’s MDC T saying President Nelson Chamisa was an uncontested brand who is loved by the majority.

He said:

“The so called MDC A principals vasina kana councillor chaiye wakahwinha pa 2018 vane basa reyi ivavo. Chamisa is a brand in Zim politics chero party yake ikanzi Chamisa vanhu vanomuda vanongomutevera. Usacheukira vatengesi famba unyerer. We need a strong opposition leader.”

The so called MDC-A principals vasina kana Councilor chaiye wakahwinha pa 2018 vane basa reyi ivavo . Chamisa is a brand in Zim politics chero Party yake ikanzi Chamisa , vanhu vanomuda vanongomutevera . Usacheukira vatengesi famba unyerere. We need a strong opposition Leader

— Hon Zivhu (@killerzivhu1) August 29, 2021

By A Correspondent- A 32 year old Gweru man has been nabbed after giving his girlfriend a cascade laced with an unknown substance before raping her.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police said:

“The ZRP is investigating a case of rape where a suspect (32) gave his girlfriend (16) a cascade laced with an unknown substance and raped her. The incident occured in Gweru.”

The ZRP is investigating a case of rape where a suspect (32) gave his girlfriend (16) a Cascade drink laced with unknown substance in Gweru and raped her. #notorape.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) August 29, 2021

Zanu PF councillor for ward 5, Mhondoro- Ngezi has admitted he is ready to kill MDC Alliance members…

Police in Harare are investigating a case in which Silver Link Investment was selling fuel without a licence in Waterfalls. Four tankers which had 30 000 litres of petrol and one with 5000 litres of diesel were found at the company’s premises.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) August 29, 2021

By A Correspondent- PDP spokesperson Jacob Mafume has said the “so-called MDC Alliance” which comprises of the MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora is “fictitious and bogus.”

Mafume speaks after the principals of the MDC Alliance, a coalition of the opposition that contested the 2018 elections, Thursday held a meeting that was chaired by Mwonzora.

They endorsed Mwonzora as leader of the opposition coalition, warning the faction led by Mr Nelson Chamisa against using the group’s name and symbols.

Mafume says the PDP was not represented in Mwonzora’s meeting and disowned Lucia Matibenga, who was named as the representative of the party.

Matibenga, leader of a splinter PDP group, was part of the Joice Mujuru-led electoral pact in the 2018 general elections, not the alliance, which rival leader Tendai Biti was part of. Mafume said:

Mwonzora is creating party leaders to advance selfish interests.

The so-called alliance is fictitious and bogus.

The meeting was held out of desperation, dishonesty and craziness.

He recalled members of Parliament from the MDC alliance because they were not members of the MDC-T, now they are claiming its ownership.

The MDC Alliance principals, who were not part of the meeting, said they never received any invitation from Mwonzora to join him.

They, however, said they could not have attended the Thursday meeting even if they had been invited because they did not recognise Mwonzora as the leader of the alliance.

Welshman Ncube-led MDC vice-president Edwin Mushoriwa said the party had no intentions to join any other alliance other than the one led by Chamisa.

MDC-T spokesperson Witness Dube said all parties were represented at the meeting except for the Transform Zimbabwe led by Jacob Ngarivhume which had pulled out of the alliance.

He said principals of the alliance were bound by the agreement that set up the alliance.

By A Correspondent- The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) has dispatched a circular to schools advising them of the new calendar and guidelines on adjusting school fees.

In a circular sent to Chief Directors, Head Office Directors, Provincial Education Directors, District Schools Inspectors, Primary School Heads, Secondary School Heads, Principals of Independent Colleges, Staff Associations, Responsible Authorities, Association of Trust Schools, and Church Education Secretaries, MoPSE said fees and levies will be charged on a prorata (proportionate) basis.

Below is the circular….

REF: STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR THE OPENING OF SCHOOLS FOR THE SECOND AND FINAL SESSION 2021

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Primary and Secondary Schools will be opening for the second and final session 2021 in two (2) phases. The 2021 examination classes (Grade 7, Forms 4 and 6) will open first on the 30th of August 2021 followed by the rest of the classes on the 6th of September 2021. It is against this background that all teachers are expected to report for duty by the 30th of August 2021.

---

In view of the current 3rd wave COVID-19 that the nation is experiencing, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education reiterates the need for strict and close observance of the World Health Organisation (W.H.0) and Ministry of Health and Child Care protocols and guidelines. Schools are therefore reminded to adhere to the provisions of the Standard Operating Procedures (5.0. Ps) guide as read with the Standard Guidelines for the Coordinated Prevention and Management of the COVID-19 pandemic at all Learning Institutions of Zimbabwe to ensure a safe, secure and healthy environment for learners, teachers and all stakeholders.

2.0 Application of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

2.1 The Standard Operating Procedures guide the day to day operations of all registered Government, Non-Government schools and Independent Colleges.

2.2 The SOPs provide guidelines to schools on the preparations that need to be made for the opening of schools and the procedures to be followed when schools are open.

2.3 All relevant stakeholders should acquaint themselves with the SOPs as they contain provisions that are mandatory.

2.4 The SOPs will be reviewed as and when it is deemed necessary.

3.0 Charging of fees and levies for the second and final session 2021

The average length of each term is about 60 days but this second and final session will be 80 days (30 August to 17 December 2021). The fees and levies for the second and final session 2021 will be charged on a pro-rata basis given by: number of days in the final session divided by average number of days in a term multiplied by approved fees and levies for each term.

4.0 Activities to be undertaken by School Heads

4.1 All schools are obliged to do the following activities:

• Ensure that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is in place and in adequate quantities.

• Ensure decongestion, where necessary, by arranging that learners attend school on alternate days and in sessions for mega schools. Examination classes have to attend every day.

• Conduct refresher training sessions for Deputy Heads, School Health Coordinators and teachers.

• Conduct regular COVID-19 awareness sessions for everyone in the school, including School Parents Assemblies (SPAs).

• Disinfect school premises including hostels and sanitize frequently touched surfaces.

• Clean the school environment regularly.

• Provide infrared thermometers and ensure screening of every person that enters the school premises.

• Designate a holding bay for any learner, member of staff or visitor identified to be unwell.

• In boarding schools, establish and fully monitor sick bays

• Display the contact details for the nearest health care facility or team.

• Provide litter bins for every class and at all strategic areas.

• Provide hand washing facilities for every class and a washing station at every entry point.

• Ensure the availability of liquid soap and/or hand sanitisers at every entry point.

• Enforce the wearing of face masks by all pupils, staff and visitors.

• Limit visitors to the school to only those that are essential.
2 • Enforce the maintenance of social/ physical distancing at the school, including in the hostels, at all times.

• Stand guided by the Ministry of Health and Child Care for any other activities.

• Maintain an accurate contact register.

• Keep doors and windows open to ensure adequate ventilation.

• Create and regularly update a social-register/ database for both learners and teachers.

• Display Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials at all strategic places.

5.0 Conclusion

Addressees are reminded of the need to ensure the safety of learners, staff and visitors at all times. It is therefore important for all stakeholders to embrace this new normal as the Ministry forges ahead with its mandate of providing inclusive, relevant and quality education. Strict adherence to W.H.O COVID 19 protocols and Ministry of Health and Child Care guidelines is thus demanded at all times.

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police has expressed concern over murder cases involving relatives and close family members.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said members of the public must value human life.

We present Nyathi’s statement.

MURDER CASES INVOLVING RELATIVES AND CLOSE FAMILY MEMBERS

The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with murder cases involving relatives and close family members in the country.

On 24 August 2021, William Kuwanda (39) assaulted his father, Kuwanda Mberi (81) to death at Majecha village, Chief Mazungunye, Bikita, after accusing him of being responsible for misfortunes in the family.

In another murder case, on 25 August 2021, a female juvenile, Jestina Sakala (16) died after she was assaulted by her brother in law Takudzwa Msimanga (30), on 22 August 2021 at Pazvavambwa, Godden Farm, Sanyati. The suspect had accused the victim of promiscuity and abusing alcohol.

In a related case, on 27 August 2021, Philimon Mudzinge (56) was fatally assaulted by his brother in law, Shame Zorwa (29) after a misunderstanding during a beer drinking spree at a shebeen at Village 15 Bumhe Resettlement, Mamina.

Zimbabweans are urged to value human life and resolve differences through peaceful means.

[NYATHI P.] Assistant Commissioner

Senior Staff Officer (Press, Public and Int. Relations) to the Commissioner-General of Police Police General Headquarters

Dear @DMwonzora Who voted for you & as a lawyer what makes you think ? you qualify for the 60 million you’re receiving? Why are you comfortable eating your neighbours goats? How do you defend your GREED ?

— LynneM ??? (@LynneStactia) August 29, 2021

Mwonzora has betrayed the people of Zimbabwe for 30 pieces of silver! The future will judge him harshly but we say to all progressive Zimbabweans, this too will come to pass! New week folks let’s keep at it, Goodmorning and #RegisterToVoteZW

— Priscilla (@Ppungwe) August 29, 2021

Mwonzora & Crew are celebrating the money from the government in a spiteful manner,IMAJENI the audacity to like the tweet,kufizura … Baba vakashata moyo ava #RegisterToVoteZW pic.twitter.com/dGMnouMIv4

— LynneM ??? (@LynneStactia) August 29, 2021

1. Zanu pf decampaigns itself & Mwonzora's burial societ. There is no opposition part that has been positively appraised by Zanu pf since independence. People were abducted, killed, arrested & raped for supporting Zapu & MDC. @DMwonzora is a Zanu pf agent. https://t.co/2kJ3cpkSsM

— Law Togaraseyi ????? (@TogaraseyiLaw) August 29, 2021

https://twitter.com/cnhizwa/status/1431872711807090690?s=20

https://twitter.com/cnhizwa/status/1431869552456048641?s=20

If you read article 5.2.1 of the Alliance agreement you'd realise that Mwonzora & Ncube are the only principals legally required at any MDC Alliance principals meeting. But such info might help you perfect your own plan so let's leave it & go back to nonsense

Doug who voted you?

— Mr_kays (@Mr_Okays) August 29, 2021

The voters know the leader of official opposition which is Chamisa, tried and tested in 2018 Presidential elections, who voted for Mwonzora has he ever stand in elections….This is the official opposition leader pic.twitter.com/9S5eu82Nsh

— joyce (@porosiya) August 29, 2021

It's not maturity. It's greedy and jealousy. Time will tell. You can not choose an opposition party. Fortunately, the people know who they want and all your shenanigans

— Nsukuzonke (@chirimuuta78) August 29, 2021

By A Correspondent- Zanu Pf central committtee member and ward 5 councillor for Ngezi is threatening to cut off MDC Alliance members’ heads for supporting President Nelson Chamisa.

In a tweet, MDC Alliance Ngezi revealed the mobile number being used by one Chengeta to threaten President Nelson Chamisa’s structures.

Said the MDC Alliance Ngezi in a tweet:

Alert

Zanu Pf in panic mode. Here in Ngezi, a Zanu Pf Central Committee member and ward 5 councillor Chengeta is thretaening to cut off people’s heads for belonging to the MDC Alliance Chamisa.

He is calling villagers using +263712324208 threatening a blood bath.

Alert ??

Zanu Pf in panic mode. Here in Ngezi, a ZANUPF central committee member & ward5 cllr Chengeta is threatening to cut off peoples heads for belonging to the MDC Alliance Chamisa. He is calling villagers using +263712324208 theatening a blood bath. #ZanuPFMustGo @hwendec pic.twitter.com/5cCBRftyQC

— CCC Ngezi (@cccngezi) August 29, 2021

By A Correspondent- Two top Marondera detectives allegedly intercepted more than 100 stolen tobacco bales and connived with the armed robbers to sell the loot before sharing the proceeds.

Tapera Bvunzawabaya (36) and Phenias Bizabani (36) from CID Law and order appeared before Marondera magistrate Rumbidzai Munemo facing criminal abuse of office charges and were ordered to apply for bail at the High Court.

They will return to court on September 10 for trial.

According to court papers, on July 22, Albert Mhari, Kezias Chonde, Morestaff Kapeta, Darlington Mhari and their accomplices who are still at large, went to Karimazondo Farm in Marondera where they ambushed the security guard, Christopher Mukobvu.

One of the suspects produced a pistol and threatened to shoot the security guard before tying his hands and legs with shoe laces.

The robbers then proceeded to a parked truck in the farm yard, assaulted the truck driver Shepherd Dabvu with fists and stabbed him several times on his buttocks before throwing him out of the vehicle.

They allegedly took the truck and its trailer laden with 130 bales of tobacco and drove to Cotter Farm along Longlands in Marondera owned by Talent Kaseke where they offloaded the bales.

They dumped the truck near the farm.

A police report was made at Marondera Central where Bizabani and Bvunzawabaya are stationed as detectives.

The accused made their investigations and found the tobacco bales at Cotter Farm where they were being repackaged to conceal their initial identification.

The two suspects allegedly demanded bribes from Mhari and his accomplices to avoid being arrested.

The, robbers, however had no money with them resulting in the detectives joining them in disposing the stolen tobacco bales.

Bizabani allegedly called one Shingirayi Mutsinziri to transport the stolen tobacco bales to Harare for sale.

The detectives also approached Talent Kaseke’s wife and got permission to use her grower’s number to sell the tobacco.

Bizabani and Bvunzawabaya then used their power as police officers to escort the trucks in their black Mercedes Benz to Harare during Covid-19 curfew hours.

They facilitated safe passage for the two trucks at police checkpoints to Harare where the tobacco was sold before sharing the proceeds.

The matter came to light after the arrest of Kapeta following a parallel investigation that included officials from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and he implicated the detectives.

Detectives recovered torn bale tags and sacks printed with the complainant’s growers’ number.

Upon being quizzed, the farmer admitted that the detectives were at the repackaging site on the day.

The total value of the stolen tobacco was pegged at US$58 000 and nothing was recovered.

Kapeta and his team are also in remand over armed robbery charges.

-standard

By A Correspondent- A 24 year old man recently died in a head on collision accident at the   102 km peg along Bulawayo Kezi-Maphisa road.

The accident happened after his car collided with another vehicle resulting in his death while five other passengers were injured.

Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Loveness Mangena said Musa Dube (24) died on the spot as a result of the accident.

“On August 7, Dube from Maphisa was driving a Ford Courier and  at a 102 km peg along Bulawayo- Kezi Maphisa road and  he was involved in a head on collision  with  another car driven by  Katsande Chamnorwa (53) from North End.

Mangena said Dube’s  car encroached into Chamnorwa’s lane resulting in his death due to the head-on collision.

She said Dube was alone in the car while Chamnorwa had five passengers on board who all got injured and were ferried to Maphisa hospital. She said Dube’s body was also taken to Maphisa hospital mortuary.

Mangena advised drivers to adhere to road rules in order to avoid unnecessary accidents.

By A Correspondent- The MDC Alliance has queried the government’s swift disbursement of funds under the Political Parties Finance Act to the Douglas Mwonzora led-MDC-T, saying this never used to happen before the 2019 split.

Mwonzora’s party was on Friday given $59 940 000 by the government while Zanu-PF got a whopping $140 million, igniting fresh debate about the MDC-T and MDC Alliance battle over the control of funds meant for parties with a sizeable representation in Parliament.

MDC Alliance secretary for presidential affairs Jameson Timba said it was surprising that government continued to give the MDC-T money when there was a High Court ruling barring the release of the funds to either of the MDC factions before their dispute was resolved by the courts.

Timba said the release of the money showed Zanu-PF’s desperation to oil “its surrogates” to distabilise the party led by Nelson Chamisa.

“There is a High Court judgment that says the money must not be distributed to anyone until the legal dispute is resolved,” Timba said.

“But alas, both the Zanu-PF government and its surrogate do not respect the rule of law.”

Timba added: “Zanu-PF needs to keep its surrogate funded in the same way Renamo was funded by the Rhodesians to fight and tire Zanla forces before they crossed over to fight the Rhodesians.”

He said in 2018 and 2019, the MDC alliance was given its money without any problems, but trouble started in march last year when the government started giving the allocation to the MDC-T.

Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi yesterday defended the government’s position on the distribution of the money.

“They (MDC alliance) lost the case, there is no such ruling barring government from releasing money to the MDC-T. if they have the ruling, can they show you?” Ziyambi said.

“Mwonzora is what we know. if they have any claim, they should go and make the claim to him because he is the one we gave.

“We know the leader of the opposition is Mwonzora.”

Ziyambi said the MDC alliance should leave the government out of its fight against the MDC-T.

On allegations that government was propping Mwonzora, Ziyambi said: “That is a lie; just like saying government is not procuring vaccines.

“The disbursement was done in February and parties wrote asking for supplementary budgets, citing changed circumstances.

“(Patrick) Chinamasa (Zanu-PF) wrote and Paurina Mupariwa (MDC-T) also wrote and i attached a support letter to the minister of Finance. He approved it and released the funds.

“The mere reason that the MDC alliance did not write asking for the funds shows that they know that they are not entitled to it.”

Mwonzora’s spokesperson Lloyd Damba said the disbursement of the money by government was transparent.

“allocation of funds under the Political Parties Finance act is not something which is new,” Damba said.

“Political parties have always been benefiting from the act, including Chamisa.

“Why would they make a fuss now when Douglas Mwonzora is now the beneficiary? after all, the fund is being allocated in a transparent manner, in line with the dictates of the constitution.

“Chamisa and his allies should know that these are the consequences of failing to respect the court orders and the constitution of the MDC-T, which they disregarded and pursued politics of individualism.”

Meanwhile, leaders of opposition parties that formed the MDC alliance ahead of the 2018 elections yesterday denied claims that they were backing Mwonzora.

Mwonzora is claiming leadership of the alliance, an electoral pact entered into by the late opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai and six other opposition parties in December 2017, which is now being led by Chamisa.

On Thursday, Mwonzora held a meeting at Richard Morgan Tsvangirai House party offices as the leader of the alliance, but only two of the signatories of the MDC alliance pact of 2017 attended the meeting.

Leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the welshman Ncube-led MDC accused Mwonzora of manipulating individuals into misrepresenting that they had attended the meeting on behalf of the parties.

Last month, Mathias Guchutu, leader of the multiracial Christian Democrats party who claimed to be the convener of the alliance, on July 12, wrote to Mwonzora informing him that the MDC-T had been expelled from the grouping for failing to abide by the principles of the alliance.

Guchutu, however, later withdrew the suspension, citing the need to pursue dialogue with Mwonzora.

He claimed that senior MDC-T party members called him for engagement following the suspension.

Guchutu attended Mwonzora’s meeting on Friday.

The MDC-T issued a statement after the meeting, but party spokesperson Nqobizitha Khumalo did not disclose the names of the principals of the alliance who were in attendance.

In the statement, Khumalo said the principals had acknowledged Mwonzora as the leader of the alliance and ordered Chamisa to stop using the alliance name.

He said several principals had endorsed Mwonzora, but The Standard is reliably informed that only the MDC, Zimbabwe People First and Zanu Ndonga had representatives at the meeting.

Stephen Manzana, spokesperson and representative of the Zimbabwe People First, who attended the meeting said the party was yet to decide whether to join Mwonzora’s alliance or not.

He said the party could join Mwonzora’s camp if he was willing to share the funds allocated to the alliance under the Political Parties Finance act with the other principals.

“We were invited to the meeting by MDC-T president Mwonzora, but we are still at the negotiating table with both Mwonzora and Chamisa,” Manzanza said.

“We are not members of any alliance as yet. we will join the grouping, which offers the best to advance the interests of the general Zimbabweans.”

PDP spokesperson Jacob Mafume said the party was not represented in Mwonzora’s meeting and disowned Lucia Matibenga, who was named as the representative of the party.

Matibenga, leader of a splinter PDP group, was part of the Joice Mujuru-led electoral pact in the 2018 general elections, not the alliance, which rival leader Tendai Biti was part of.

“Mwonzora is creating party leaders to advance selfish interests,” Mafume said.

“The so-called alliance is fictitious and bogus.

“The meeting was held out of desperation, dishonesty and craziness.

“He recalled members of Parliament from the MDC alliance because they were not members of the MDC-T, now they are claiming its ownership.”

The MDC alliance principals, who were not part of the meeting, said they never received any invitation from Mwonzora to join him.

They, however, said they could not have attended the Thursday meeting even if they had been invited because they did not recognise mwonzora as the leader of the alliance.

Welshman Ncube-led MDC vice-president Edwin Mushoriwa said the party had no intentions to join any other alliance other than the one led by Chamisa.

“Mwonzora did not even bother to invite us because he knew that we would not attend. we do not subscribe to his cheap political tricks,” Mushoriwa said.

“We know that the meeting was part of Mwonzora’s multiple sideshows to derail the agenda for change. but as the MDC-N, we continue rallying behind Chamisa to push for democracy and constitutionalism and respect the people’s will.”

MDC-T spokesperson witness Dube said all parties were represented at the meeting except for the Transform Zimbabwe led by Jacob Ngarivhume which had pulled out of the alliance.

He said principals of the alliance were bound by the agreement that set up the alliance.

-standard

By A Correspondent- The MDC Alliance has endorsed MDC-T president Douglas Mwonzora as leader of the opposition coalition, warning the faction led by Nelson Chamisa against using the group’s name and symbols, the state media reported.

Principals of the alliance, a coalition of opposition parties that contested the 2018 general elections, met in Harare last week and committed themselves to the coalition agreement.

The alliance was consummated in 2017 when the MDC-T formed an electoral pact with six other political parties.

On Friday, MDC-T leader Mwonzora chaired a meeting of coalition principals.

In a statement released after the meeting, MDC-Alliance secretary for information and publicity, Nqobizitha Dumakile Khumalo, said: “Today the MDC Alliance Principals Forum met under the strict Covid 19 regulations at Morgan Tsvangirai House in Harare.

“The meeting was chaired by MDC-T president, Douglas Mwonzora.

“The various political leaders acknowledged president Mwonzora as the leader of the MDC Alliance, in line with the constituting document of the pact.

“The meeting re-asserted full commitment to the alliance agreement.”

In apparent reference to Chamisa’s faction, he said the group was concerned with the continued abuse of the party’s name and symbols.

“The meeting, however, noted the continued abuse of the MDC Alliance name and symbols and urges those doing so to cease and desist forthwith.

“The meeting further agreed that it heartily welcomes and accepts any political players who subscribe to the MDC Alliance ethos.

“The meeting also deliberated and asserted its full commitment to inclusive, genuine and unconditional dialogue to end the problems currently afflicting Zimbabweans,” Khumalo said.

-statemedia

By A Correspondent- MDC Alliance supporters in Chimanimani have claimed that Zanu PF officials have threatened to deny them free agricultural inputs under the presidential input scheme if they don’t support President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s re-election bid.

Zanu PF is mobilising to raise five million voters for the 2023 general elections.

MDC Alliance Manicaland spokesperson David Panganai said, ahead of the 2023 polls, there were growing fears of human rights violations by ruling party supporters, with the opposition supporters being intimidated and sometimes beaten up.

“I have reports of intimidation around Manicaland and Chimanimani in particular,” Panganai said.

“They are being told at meetings that if they do not vote for Zanu PF, they are not going to receive presidential inputs or they will be beaten.

“We have reports that our supporters are being asked by Zanu PF supporters to surrender their registration details so that they will get land. Why do they need registration details? This is clear intimidation.”

Founder of Young Entrepreneurs Trust Zimbabwe, Fungai Nhaitai, said he was manhandled by unknown persons who claimed that he was mobilising youths in Mutare to vote against Zanu PF.

A member of a local non-governmental organisation, Rutendo Gwawu, who also attended a meeting organised by Nhaitai was caught up in the storm.

Gwawu said he was taken outside the meeting by some people impersonating the police and quizzed over his political affiliation.

Zimbabwe has a history of human rights abuses towards elections.

But Zanu PF Manicaland acting secretary for administration Misheck Mugadza said: “These are lies, we are a democratic party. We are focusing on mobilising five million votes ahead of the 2023 elections. New dispensation does not abuse people, MDC supporters should come and get presidential inputs and land.”- NewsDay

By A Correspondent- Police arrested two suspected robbers who allegedly pounced on a miner at Mazowe Mine and robbed him of US$130 after assaulting him with a beer bottle.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the two suspects were arrested at a police roadblock as they tried to escape.

Mashonaland Central acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Naison Dhliwayo confirmed the arrest of Vigilance Mukanganwi (31) and Patson Katsande (32) from Harare, who allegedly robbed Denis Ndlovu (25).

Dhliwayo said:

I can confirm a robbery case in Mazowe where Mukanganwi approached Ndlovu at his Amatola farm, Mazowe with an empty beer bottle and demanded beer, but Ndlovu told the suspect that he had no money.

The furious Mukanganwi struck Ndlovu with a broken bottle and assaulted him with clenched fists all over the body before robbing him of his money and fleeing to their gate-away car where Katsande was waiting for him.

In a different case, police have arrested two people for stealing a motorcycle.

In a statement posted via ZRP Twiter handle, the police said:

On 27/08/21 Police in Banket arrested Try Tayara (44) and Wonder Matope (38) for Theft of motorcycle and farming inputs which occurred along Jacaranda Crescent.

The arrest led to the recovery of the motorcycle and various tobacco farming inputs. Investigations are in progress.

Reports of robbery cases have been overwhelming and scores of suspects have been arrested.

More: The Standard

By A Correspondent- The Indo-Paki community in Harare has allegedly written to ZANU PF Headquarters asking that the party replaces and disciplines Ward 5 council candidate Abdul Sapa who has been described as a domestic terrorist.

A member of the Indo-Paki community who spoke on condition of anonymity said Indians and Pakistanis living in Harare were not happy with the conduct of Abdul Sapa who is accused of having caused the death of respected community leader Ashraf Bhagoo.

Abdul Sapa is accused of using his close proximity to security sector bosses to terrorise the Indo-Paki community in the name of the party and security chiefs.

The source revealed that Abdul Sapa allegedly masterminded a robbery at Sarwar Shah’s residence in Milton Park which led to the death of Ashraf Bhagoo.

Sarwar Shah runs the Hello Paisa brand in Zimbabwe. It is reported that Shah received 2.5 million USD on the 11th of September through official channels which he was meant to divert and fund illegal gold buying deals.

Abdul Sapa has served as a henchman and gold smuggler for Shah. It is reported that Sapa uses state security agents in smuggling the gold.

Sapa was infuriated by Shah who did not renew his security services as he had released that Sapa was untrustworthy and unreliable.

Sapa allegedly then used his ex CID homicide colleagues to stage a robbery at Shah’s house. Ashraf Bhagoo a respectable elder and leader of the Indo-Pakistani community was shot during the Sapa masterminded robbery.

Sapa claims to be a ZANU PF loyalist and brags that he has ties to generals who protect him.

Sapa has allegedly terrorized the Indian moslem community he sends robbers , Zimra, ZACC, sacu , homicide , to raid Indian households and runs an extortion ring.

Members of the Indo-Pakistani community have vowed to continue supporting Zanu PF but they demand that the party replaces Abdul Sapa as his warlord tendencies which have left the community living in fear are going to cost the party in the 2023 elections.

The IndoPak community said they have a huge pool of talented , patriotic and politically clear individuals who can replace Abdul Sapa.

Members of the IndoPaki community are in the process of compiling a dossier on Abdul Sapa and his criminal activities.

By A Correspondent- Two detectives stationed in Marondera have been arrested for their role in the theft and selling of over 100 tobacco bales valued at US$58 000.

It is alleged that Tapera Bvunzawabaya (36) and Phenias Bizabani (36) from CID Law and Order intercepted the stolen tobacco but connived with the armed robbers to sell the loot before sharing the proceeds.

The duo had reportedly demanded bribes from the robbers Albert Mhari, Kezias Chonde, Morestaff Kapeta, Darlington Mhari and their accomplices who are still at large, but the robbers had no money.

It is alleged that on 22 July, the robbers who were armed with a pistol, went to Karimazondo Farm in Marondera where they ambushed the security guard, Christopher Mukobvu whom they threatened before tying his hands and legs with shoelaces.

They took a truck laden with 130 bales of tobacco from the farm after assaulting and stabbing the driver and then drove to Cotter Farm along Longlands in Marondera owned by Talent Kaseke where they offloaded the bales.

A police report was made at Marondera Central and Bizabani and Bvunzawabaya who are stationed as detectives made investigations and found the tobacco bales at Cotter Farm.

They found the robbers repackaging the tobacco to conceal their initial identification and demanded bribes from the robbers.

The robbers said they had no money and then it was proposed that the tobacco be sold and proceeds be shared between the cops and the robbers.

Bizabani allegedly called one Shingirayi Mutsinziri who transported the stolen tobacco bales to Harare for sale.

The cops also approached Talent Kaseke’s wife and got permission to use her grower’s number to sell the tobacco.

They also escorted the trucks in their black Mercedes Benz and facilitated safe passage for the two trucks at police checkpoints to Harare where the tobacco was sold before sharing the proceeds.

A parallel investigation involving the Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission (ZACC) led to the arrest of Kapeta who implicated the detectives.

The cops have since appeared before Marondera magistrate Rumbidzai Munemo facing criminal abuse of office charges and were ordered to apply for bail at the High Court.

Kapeta and his team are also in remand over armed robbery charges.

-standard

By A Correspondent- Former Local Government minister and Zanu PF MP for Headlands Christopher Chingosho has been arrested for allegedly calling first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa a prostitute for not inviting him to a function held in his constituency.

The Standard reported that Chingosho was arrested yesterday and is detained at Rusape Police Station.

Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Chingosho’s arrest but could not give details, saying police were still investigating the case. Nyathi said:

I can confirm that a report has been made against the MP, but we are still investigating the nature of the report.
As of now, I cannot confirm whether it is an arrest or what.
All I can say is we are still investigating the nature of the report.

Zanu-PF sources told The Standard that Chingosho was arrested after he reacted angrily to the alleged snub by the first lady. Said a senior Zanu-PF official in Rusape:
He arrived at the function and complained about the failure of the first lady to invite him.
He said the first lady was a whore because he did not invite him.
Some party members who attended the event immediately reported him to the police, leading to his arrest.

Several Zanu-PF officials from Manicaland confirmed the development but refused to be named, saying the “matter was too sensitive.”

The Standard

By A Correspondent- Two people died near Murambinda Growth Point after Chief Chivese was involved in a road accident with his new Isuzu vehicle he got from the government.

The Mirror reported that the tragedy happened on Saturday evening when Chief Chivese drove to Mutare from Chikomba.
Chief Chivese who was injured in the accident, was admitted to Murambinda Hospital.

“I am injured, my child. I am in pain, can’t talk right now,” Chief Chivese told the Mirror.

The two people who died were passengers in Chief Chivese’s Isuzu D Teck in which they were passengers was involved in an accident.

Chief Chivese’s Government vehicle was extensively damaged.

By A Correspondent- Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba brewed another diplomatic storm after attacking the United States of America.

Charamba at the weekend on his @Jamwanda2 Twitter account celebrated the end of the tenure of the US ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Brian Nichols.

Nichols was critical of the regime and would demonise Zanu PF’s misgovernance of and human rights abuses.

Nichols is leaving Zimbabwe after completing his diplomatic term in Zimbabwe.

https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1431455324054163461

By A Correspondent- Police in Banket have disrupted a violent Zanu PF meeting and ordered the organisers to refrain from violence.

This happened recently during the party’s restructuring exercise in the Mashonaland west farming town, after angry youths had asked for jobs from their local councillor, who failed to provide them with answers.

Zanu PF youth league chairperson for Banket Steven Zidana charged at the district chairman, Never Hutepasi, also Ward 22 councillor, accusing him of behaving like opposition MDC.

The youths accused Hutepasi of being a thief and traitor on a mission to see the ruling party losing in the 2023 national elections.

Zidana threatened to physically assault Hutepasi after the latter had indicated that he could not get jobs for the youths in a construction company carrying out the government’s emergency road rehabilitation programme in Banket.

Hutepasi told the meeting that the contractor had been engaged by the central government and not by the local council; therefore, he could not influence recruitment processes since he was a councillor. Added Hutepasi:

We cannot force a private player to employ anyone, but we can only make requests if they have vacancies.
Zidana then charged towards Hutepasi and started insulting him. Charged Zidana:

You are foolish! How can you bring the MDC way of doing things to Zanu PF? Do you want the party to lose elections? I will not allow you to do it, and you are also a thief.

Police officers arrived at the meeting and dispersed the gathering.

By A Correspondent- Zanu PF youths in Banket have disrupted their party meeting and threatened to beat up their leadership.

This happened recently during the party’s restructuring exercise after angry youths had asked for jobs from their local councillor.

Zanu PF youth league chairperson for Banket Steven Zidana charged at the district chairman, Never Hutepasi, also Ward 22 councillor, accusing him of behaving like opposition MDC.

The youths accused Hutepasi of being a thief and traitor on a mission to see the ruling party losing in the 2023 national elections.

Zidana threatened to physically assault Hutepasi after the latter had indicated that he could not get jobs for the youths in a construction company carrying out the government’s emergency road rehabilitation programme in Banket.

Hutepasi told the meeting that the contractor had been engaged by the central government and not by the local council; therefore, he could not influence recruitment processes since he was a councillor. Added Hutepasi:

We cannot force a private player to employ anyone, but we can only make requests if they have vacancies.
Zidana then charged towards Hutepasi and started insulting him. Charged Zidana:

You are foolish! How can you bring the MDC way of doing things to Zanu PF? Do you want the party to lose elections? I will not allow you to do it, and you are also a thief.

Police officers arrived at the meeting and dispersed the gathering.

Now for Chris Mutsvangwa’s political debacle. He visited the late General Edzai Chimonyo& told him that they should remove VP Chiwenga and Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri because they were not good. He, Mutsvangwa would get the VP position as the leader of the Zezuru.

He would later replace ED. Unfortunately he was recorded and the chat reported to the leaders. That is why the guy has been so silent& stupid when he speaks. The accusation against @mdczimbabwe over the arresting of War Vets is an example of him seeking to court favour with ED.

The man is dead in the water, politically, and has been since his shellacking in Norton where he got 4000 votes against my near 17, 000. This was despite his huge support from the Chinese community whom he has ties with since his Ambassadorial posting there years back.

He was given $1 million by the Chinese to campaign and 1000kgs of meat which he partisanly gave only to Zanu PF supporters. However we got @ZANUPF_Official T-shirts and gave to people so that they could get the meat. They ate the meat and still knew where to put the X.

Unfortunately even after the electorate rejected him @ZANUPF_Official put him in Politburo. It’s a no brainer because at the end of the day that structure is filled with an elite class that has no mass support& critically has a mentality at cross purposes with the electorate.

Today Mutsvangwa remains a Chinese ally& that makes him a security threat. Norton is littered with the Chinese because they thought he would win. Today he is into a pipeline deal with Eddie Cross benefitting himself whilst the War Veterans he represents are suffering.

It goes to show his abject incapacity as a leader. Am glad some of the War Veterans are waking up& standing up for their own issues. They should appoint their own leaders& not have them foisted on them. Even the Veterans League leadership should be of their own choosing.

The veterans have been used for over a long time by politicians. Today we are compensating whites whilst War Veterans are suffering; while Gukurahundi victims have not been paid anything. It’s unfortunate and shameful. Justice should prevail.

I remain the voice for the voiceless. This is not frustration but a search for justice. My tone might have changed but it’s for better governance. I’m able to review what I supported& what I supported is not where it should be.

People should not confuse my role as an MP with my personal relationship with the President. I’m just a messenger of what is being said. It’s better that I speak out and leaders know and take corrective measures instead of those who remain quiet wishing leaders to fail.

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance leader President Nelson has described George ‘The Mastermind’ Shaya as a genuine national hero who transformed the game of football.

According to President Chamisa, heroism is determined by virtue of one’s outstanding achievements.

President Chamisa also slammed Zanu PF for monopolizing the selection of national heroes.

“Just back from Zambia to note that this week we lost a giant among us, an icon who transcended sport, George Shaya.

They called him Mastermind on account of his exceptional prowess on the football field.There’s no doubt that he was a national treasure, a national hero.

Heroes are not pronounced by a few. They are heroes because of their impact on a generation and the lives of others.

He entertained. He inspired. He taught. Heroes do not make noise.Their work announces itself to eternity. RIP Mastermind. You were a leader and you still lead,” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.

By A Correspondent- Chiefs in Zimbabwe have been trained as Zanu PF commissars at the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology to mobilise votes for the ruling party ahead of the 2023 elections, it has emerged.

According to a letter leaked to the media directed to Zanu PF Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu,signed by the Chitepo School of Ideology Principal Munyaradzi Machacha, Chiefs, District Development Coordinators and Rural District Councils Chief Executive officers were last year invited to train at the school of ideology.

Machacha said in order to create a strong bond between the party and government, the DCC members were to be trained together with local government officials comprising the Party DCCs, Chairman of the RDCs, CEOs of RDCs, DDCs and local Chiefs.

He said by the end of the training programme they were to be able to carry out vigorous mobilization programmes within the districts to achieve the five million voter population for Zanu PF in 2023.

He said participants must be able to create a synergy and bonding between the party DCC structure and Local Government officials in pursuit of economic development goals “in line with Vision 2030, create a wider ward based training human resources in order to participate in the following ward based train the trainer programme.”

Machacha said this was necessary since the nation approaches the 2023 harmonized elections.

Human Rights Advocate Effie Ncube speaking during the Nkayi Community Parliament recently said it was sad that traditional leaders support the ruling party when they are expected to be non-partisan.

Ncube described it as illegal and a violation of the constitution.

“There are Chiefs who still do not adhere to the constitution because constitutions do not implement themselves. The constitution says Chiefs must not be partisan,” he said.

He said what makes this important is that the Chief is a judiciary officer presiding over criminal cases and it would affect his work if he is found to be partisan.

“Who will conclude that justice will be done or there will be a fair trial?,” Ncube said.

Ncube noted that when a partisan Chief calls for a meeting, opposition members will not attend because he has proven to be a party commissar.

“Chiefs can only cast their votes like other civil servants but must not work for a political party,” he said.

“The inclusion of chiefs at the school of ideology to train on party ideology is a sign that they are now commissars.”

Ncube said this was against the provisions of the constitution and the laws.

“The first job of those in power is to defend the constitution and human rights, but when the ruling party takes Chiefs to party ideological school it’s an ultimate form of lawlessness,” Ncube said.

Nkayi villagers expressed worries over the public stance portrayed by many chiefs which shows that they now all belong to the ruling party.

They noted that there is a need for the reforms in the chiefs if the country can move forward and have development.

We are deeply saddened and affected by the misunderstanding that took place at Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube ‘s office yesterday.

This was as a result of the gallant sons and daughters of this land who are now senior citizens effort to enquire and raise their complaints for the government to increase their current monthly pension which is about zw$16000.

It is evident to any Zimbabwean that this paltry amount is insufficient to cater for a decent livelihood for any Zimbabwean under the prevailing economic environment.

Gagging war veterans is inconsiderate as they made a sacrifice for the free Zimbabwe that we now all dwell in and their grievances should be a serious point of concern of the Government of Zimbabwe.

One of the war veterans reported that they were not demonstrating but rather were adhering to Covid 19 regulations as they were waiting for the Minister to bring back a response to them.

There is no way a senior citizen above 60 would incite violence when they have serious bread and butter issues to attend to. These war veterans were sincerely seeking the Finance Ministers audience and it is their right to do so.

They were blocked from seeing him whilst waiting for their response. Ministers are public officials who should be accessible by all those with grievances pertaining to any issue of concern in the relevant ministry.

As LEAD we feel that there was a gross misunderstanding and overeaction to which the war veterans must be pardoned and at least be given a chance to be heard.

That is the democratic country that we know which should give citizens a chance to be heard and express themselves.

It is embarrassing that a while Police spokesperson denies that War Veterans were arrested yesterday yet there is picture evidence to the unlawful arrest of peaceful, law abiding citizens.

We implore the government of Zimbabwe to wear a human face and seriously consider the plight of war veterans and all pensioners in Zimbabwe who are getting peanuts every Monthend.

Pensioners in Zimbabwe are now living in abject poverty yet they contributed for their social security whilst they were still employed.

Pensioners deserve decent livelihoods and the Ministry of Public Service, NSSA and all Pension funds should seriously consider reviewing the pension payouts they are giving pensioners to decent amounts that can sustain livelihoods.

LEAD remains committed to ensuring that all senior citizens live a life free of fear, want, hunger and poverty.

EVERJOY CHIDINDI

LEAD Presidential Spokesperson

Own Correspondent- The MDC-T is now a house of confusion as it’s leaders are reportedly relying with sangomas and prophets to seek spiritual powers to win the 2023 general elections.

Mwonzora’s top officials were reportedly spotted during night at the house of Masvingo preacher Isaac Makomichi.

Makomichi is known for distributing love and business charms .

Reports say Mwonzora and his followers are seeking secret powers to win elections.

“I don’t disclose the names of my clients, but as for Mwonzora I can’t pray for him because his bad luck is insurmountable. Of course I can make make everyone who approaches me rich but Mwonzora’s issue is too complicated. I don’t want to take his money for nothing that’s why I denied their seeding, they said they want secret powers for elections” Makomichi claimed.

One political analyst has pointed out that MDC-T is wasting time by seeking powers to win elections from Makomichi because the preacher himself also hates Mwonzora.

Mwonzora is being used by Zanu PF to destroy Nelson Chamisa.

By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched an investigation into the causes of his helicopter accident last Sunday.

Mnangagwa, who was coming from his Kwekwe farm last Sunday, had his chopper forced into an emergency landing near Norton over 60 kilometres southwest of Harare after developing a technical fault.

Security sources told The NewsHawks the crash landing incident happened on Sunday around 4 pm in the Sandringham area, Matsvaire village, in Chegutu district.

The sources said Mnangagwa was rattled and terrified by the incident, which forced him into a scary emergency while returning to Harare. Said a source:

The incident happened in Sandringham. A probe into what happened to the President’s chopper is currently underway. Whenever the President is not flying the helicopter, the helicopter will be parked at Manyame Air Base in Harare and it’s usually flown when he visits his Sherwood farm or when he wants to travel to remote areas.

From Manyame, it usually picks him up from his state residence, but sometimes it lands at Morris Depot grounds where it would be under police guard. While many people think that he has bought a new chopper, it’s not true, the helicopter which was forced to make an emergency landing is an old one which was resprayed.

Initially, it had been agreed after the incident that he should be picked up to complete the journey by road, but while the motorcade was on its way, a second helicopter was sent to fly him back home.

Sources said investigations underway on the incident would involve the Air Force, intelligence services, Presidential Guard and aviation experts.
Earlier this month, he was forced to make a last-minute flight postponement to Mutare due to bad weather.

Sources said following the Sunday incident, strict protocols in maintaining the President’s chopper are expected to be enforced after the probe is concluded.

The presidential spokesman, George Charamba, said he was not aware of the incident.

In April this year, three Air Force officers died when their helicopter crashed in Arcturus near Harare.

-NewsHawks

By A Correspondent- Heads are rolling at Manyame Airbase following the emergency landing of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s presidential helicopter in Chegutu.

Mnangagwa’s chopper was forced into an emergency landing near Norton over 60 kilometres southwest of Harare last Sunday after developing a technical fault.

Security sources told The NewsHawks the crash landing incident happened on Sunday around 4 pm in the Sandringham area, Matsvaire village, in Chegutu district when Mnangagwa was coming from his Kwekwe farm.

The sources said Mnangagwa was rattled and terrified by the incident, which forced him into a scary emergency while returning to Harare. Said a source:

The incident happened in Sandringham. A probe into what happened to the President’s chopper is currently underway. Whenever the President is not flying the helicopter, the helicopter will be parked at Manyame Air Base in Harare and it’s usually flown when he visits his Sherwood farm or when he wants to travel to remote areas.

From Manyame, it usually picks him up from his state residence, but sometimes it lands at Morris Depot grounds where it would be under police guard. While many people think that he has bought a new chopper, it’s not true, the helicopter which was forced to make an emergency landing is an old one which was resprayed.

Initially, it had been agreed after the incident that he should be picked up to complete the journey by road, but while the motorcade was on its way, a second helicopter was sent to fly him back home.

Sources said investigations underway on the incident would involve the Air Force, intelligence services, Presidential Guard and aviation experts.
Earlier this month, he was forced to make a last-minute flight postponement to Mutare due to bad weather.

Sources said following the Sunday incident, strict protocols in maintaining the President’s chopper are expected to be enforced after the probe is concluded.

The presidential spokesman, George Charamba, said he was not aware of the incident.

In April this year, three Air Force officers died when their helicopter crashed in Arcturus near Harare.

-NewsHawks

By A Correspondent |MDC Alliance leader President Nelson has described George ‘The Mastermind’ Shaya as a genuine national hero who transformed the game of football.

According to President Chamisa, heroism is determined by virtue of one’s outstanding achievements.

President Chamisa also slammed Zanu PF for monopolizing the selection of national heroes.

“Just back from Zambia to note that this week we lost a giant among us, an icon who transcended sport, George Shaya.

They called him Mastermind on account of his exceptional prowess on the football field.There’s no doubt that he was a national treasure, a national hero.

Heroes are not pronounced by a few. They are heroes because of their impact on a generation and the lives of others.

He entertained. He inspired. He taught. Heroes do not make noise.Their work announces itself to eternity. RIP Mastermind. You were a leader and you still lead,” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.

By A Correspondent- A Rusape couple’s marriage recently collapsed after the husband cheated with their married maid.

The man, Taurai Chibwana’s affair with the maid Ruth Makwavara unearthed by his wife Tafadzwa Juba.

Following the incident, Ruth was sent packing by her husband while Taurai and Tafadzwa parted ways awaiting filing of divorces papers.

Taurai and Tafadzwa got married in 2010 before they wedded in 2017.

Sources close to the incident confirmed that the love triangle occurred in June where Taurai was fined for adul_tery.

“This issue happened in June after Taurai’s wife got to know about the affair.

“At some point she confronted the two (Taurai and Ruth) but both denied the relationship.

“All hell broke loose when Ruth’s husband got the messages and confronted Taurai who denied the affair.

“Later on Ruth confessed to dating Taurai after the husband found some chats again and she lost her marriage,” said the source.

Contacted for comment, Tafadzwa confirmed the incident and expressed her anger on Ruth for destroying her marriage.

“Who gave you the story but anyway I am angry with Ruth because she destroyed my marriage.

“We got married with my husband in 2010 and wedded in 2017 and Ruth (maid) came in 2010 and left this year after she cheated.

“We have two children and the maid was married before she was chased over the adul_tery.

“My husband was also fined for having a relationship with the married woman.

“I am currently staying alone after we separated with my husband,” she said.

Prior to their ‘divorce’ Tafadzwa said neither did her husband nor the maid admit to their shenanigans.

“Her husband used to work for my husband and he saw some messages before he confronted him (my husband).

“My husband denied the issue citing that they were lies but he later found some messages in her phone which were coming from my husband.

“They had an appointment and he then confronted her before she deleted the messages.

“Takaitwa mapenzi after vadestroyer the evidence but the marriages collapsed.”

Tafadzwa said more evidence came when she invited Ruth to her place of residence.

“After we separated, my husband would come home, that’s when I had access to his phone after I noticed his password, I copied their chats with Ruth.

“I later on started talking to her since she would always deny the affair but she later confessed due to the chats.

“I invited her to my place where I beat her up prompting the confession.

“I asked her to write down everything in the presence of her husband. I also noticed that she had other boyfriends whom she was dating.

“She had the guts to mock me,” she said.

Taurai contradicted himself and admitted to have been fined over the issue.

“Who told you about that issue? Give me their names. Where you are right now? They told you so what?

“She told me she was divorced and we dated while she was no longer staying with us.

“Her husband caught some messages but they were not mine.

“I talked to her husband and I told him it was not me.”

Added Taurai:

“Yes I paid the fine for the sake of peace.

“I decided to say sorry since we stay in the same area and you know zvekutaura taura zvononetsa so, that’s why I paid.

“But when people are divorced is there any need for someone to claim the woman back.

“I also discovered she had other boyfriends,” he said.

Ruth’s former husband Nyasha Mukonyora confirmed to have lost his wife to Taurai.

“We separated because of Taurai and I gave up on the marriage.

“I am in pain to an extent I told Taurai’s wife not involve me in all these issues.

“Ndini ndakanyengerwa mukadzi so there is no need to involve me in this issue again,” he said.

However, Ruth’s mobile number was not reachable.

-HMetro

By A Correspondent- A Gweru man died upon admission at a clinic following a fistfight with one Andrew Muvhimi who had accused him of stealing his clothes.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police(ZRP) has since arrested Muvhimi and charged him with murder. ZRP posted via its Twitter handle:

Police in Gweru arrested Andrew Muvhimi (29) in connection with a murder case which occurred on 25/08/21 at Insukamini vegetable market. The victim, Thokozani Sibanda (25), died upon admission at Makepesi Clinic after a fistfight with the suspect.

The suspect had accused the victim of stealing his clothes.

In another case, Police in Esigodini are investigating a murder case in which the victim, Millias Ncube (70), died on 27 August this year upon admission at United Bulawayo Hospital.

Police said the suspect, Chelesani Mpofu (42) assaulted Ncube on the 9th and 10th of August after an argument over the suspect’s girlfriend.