By A Correspondent

Zimbabwe’s Youth Minister, Tino Machakaire, has made a bold appeal to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to urgently address the deteriorating state of the country’s public health institutions. His remarks, delivered in an open and heartfelt statement, highlight the deepening crisis in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.

Machakaire said he was compelled to speak out after a personal visit to a government hospital to see a relative.

“I visited one of our public health institutions this morning to see a relative and left deeply concerned by the conditions I witnessed,” he said. “What I saw was deeply moving—a clear indication that many of our people are facing serious challenges.”

He acknowledged the widespread criticism of the healthcare system, noting that the public outcry was not exaggerated but rooted in the everyday experiences of ordinary Zimbabweans.

“The growing public outcry over our healthcare system is not an exaggeration; it reflects the difficult experiences of many citizens,” Machakaire emphasized.

In a rare moment of candid reflection, the minister called on President Mnangagwa to witness the situation firsthand.

“Your Excellency, you have earned the admiration of this nation for your compassion, humility and tireless dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens… I respectfully plead with you: please find time from your busy schedule to visit these institutions yourself. There is no substitute for seeing, listening and understanding firsthand what our citizens are going through,” he urged.

Machakaire also commended fellow citizens who have spoken up about public issues, saying their voices reflect the kind of participatory leadership the nation needs.

“I also wish to commend those who have had the courage to raise their voices on matters of public interest. Their advocacy reflects a belief in the kind of leadership you represent—a leadership that listens, acts and puts people first,” he said.

His statement has sparked conversations across social media, with many Zimbabweans applauding the minister for his honesty and courage to speak truth to power.

By Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi-Forty-five years after independence, the time for silence has passed.

Every Zimbabwean—at home or abroad—knows the painful truth: our health system is in crisis. Hospitals without medicine, clinics without basic equipment, health workers unpaid and demoralised—these are no longer the exception but the everyday reality. The government has failed to safeguard one of our most fundamental rights: access to quality healthcare.

And the consequences are brutal. We are watching our loved ones suffer and die, not from rare or incurable diseases, but from conditions that are easily treatable—conditions made deadly by neglect, corruption, and mismanagement.

But let’s be honest: blaming the government alone is not enough. If we continue to do nothing, we become complicit in the suffering. Waiting for someone else to fix this is no longer an option. The next victim could be your child, your sibling, your parent—or you.

It’s time we, the people of Zimbabwe, take ownership of the crisis. The health sector is not someone else’s responsibility. It is ours. Ndeyedu. Ngeyethu.

The diaspora must lead alongside those on the ground. We have thousands of Zimbabwean doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and health professionals around the world—many eager to help, but unsure how. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs, churches, NGOs, community groups, and local companies are ready, waiting for direction and leadership.

It’s time to build bridges and craft solutions.

Let us come together to establish a National Health Fund—transparent, accountable, and managed by Zimbabweans, for Zimbabweans. A fund that supports rural clinics, supplies essential medicines, and pays healthcare workers fairly. Let’s work with trusted professionals to ensure resources reach where they are needed most.

Let’s adopt clinics in our hometowns. One clinic at a time. One hospital ward at a time. Let’s restore dignity to our people.

We can also harness the power of technology. Telehealth programs, led by diaspora professionals, can train nurses and offer remote consultations. Zimbabwean engineers and technicians can maintain and repair vital equipment. Local businesses can sponsor hospital wards or donate supplies. Every contribution counts.

This is not about politics—it is about saving lives. Our silence is deadly. Our inaction is a betrayal of future generations. We can no longer afford to wait or hope that someone else will act.

We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

Let us rise as true sons and daughters of Zimbabwe. Let us show the world that we are a people of compassion, ingenuity, and unity. The solution does not lie in government corridors—it lies in our collective will and the hands of ordinary citizens determined to make a difference.

The time to act is now. Will you be part of the solution? Share this message. Help build a healthier Zimbabwe.

By Health Reporter-The Zimbabwean government has withheld verification letters for over 4,000 nurses, effectively preventing them from leaving the country to take up employment opportunities abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom.

The verification letters—each costing US$300—are a mandatory requirement for nurses seeking overseas jobs. Despite having paid the fee, thousands of nurses have yet to receive the crucial documentation.

A senior official from the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare revealed that more than 6,789 Zimbabwean nurses are already working in the UK, with another 1,000 having relocated to Ireland. The growing exodus has reportedly alarmed the government, which is grappling with a worsening nurse-to-patient ratio in public health institutions—estimated at between 1:20 and 1:30 in some wards.

Speaking to NewsDay, Zimbabwe Nurses Association president Enock Dongo condemned the government’s actions, describing them as a violation of workers’ rights.

“We are gravely concerned about the denial of nurses’ rights. It has come to our attention that nurses who have completed their mandatory bonding are being denied both their diplomas and verification letters—documents required to seek employment locally or internationally,” Dongo said.

“This is a blatant infringement of their right to choose their employer. We demand the immediate release of these documents to all eligible nurses. More than 4,000 professionals are currently affected by this injustice,” he added.

-NewsDay

By Showbiz Reporter- Upcoming musician Chillmaster has narrowly avoided jail time after the family of the man he killed pleaded for his release.

During a victim impact assessment presented in court, a representative of the late Custon Charambira’s family asked the court to show leniency towards Chillmaster, citing the artist’s commitment to supporting the deceased’s minor children.

Lucia Charambira, speaking on behalf of the family, told presiding magistrate Tatenda Mukurunge that Chillmaster had taken full responsibility for the funeral expenses, including food, transport, and the cost of the coffin. She said he had already paid half of the compensation the family demanded and had pledged to settle the remainder soon.

Lucia further told the court that Chillmaster had vowed to cover the children’s education costs until they complete school. “He understands the pain of what happened and is truly remorseful,” she said. “He has undertaken to care for the children as their father would have if he were still alive.”

In addition to education support, Chillmaster’s legal team said he also promised to provide monthly groceries to cater for the children’s basic needs until they turn 18.

Despite the family’s plea, the court sentenced Chillmaster to perform 420 hours of community service at Stoneridge Primary School for the charge of culpable homicide. He was also fined US$200 for driving without a license. He pleaded guilty to both offenses.

The accident occurred when Chillmaster, with three passengers on board, was driving from Stoneridge into town. He struck Custon Charambira, who was walking along the roadside towards the maSteps area. The victim died on the spot after sustaining severe head injuries and broken legs.

By Crime and Courts Reporter-The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) this week held its annual Family Week, a heartwarming initiative that allows inmates to reconnect with their loved ones.

At Gwanda Prison, the atmosphere was filled with emotion as inmates embraced their children and partners, sharing laughter, meals, and meaningful conversations. 

The event aims to strengthen family bonds and support the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society.

For Thulani Mlilo (25), serving a reduced 16-month sentence, the highlight was holding his 11-month-old daughter, whom he hadn’t seen since she was five months old. “It really warmed my heart to see my family again, especially my children. Playing with them gave me hope and reminded me that we are still seen as human beings,” he said.

Mitchel Dube (23), who is on remand for murder, also welcomed the chance to reconnect with his wife and two young children, aged eight months and three years. “Being around children and seeing people come and go reminds us that we are still part of the world outside. This programme means a lot,” he said.

His wife, Rejoice Moyo, said the visit allowed the family to reconnect and discuss important matters, bringing her relief.

Superintendent Ishmael Madzimbamuto, Officer-in-Charge at Gwanda Prison, said the programme received a strong response, with around 100 visitors received daily. “Family Week is an essential part of rehabilitation. It helps inmates find closure, seek forgiveness, and remain connected to home,” he said.

He added that the initiative also supports inmates’ mental health and encourages their reintegration after release. 

Families were informed through various platforms, and officials expect most inmates to have received visitors by the end of the week.

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF heavyweights have reportedly taken control of the Tugwi-Mukosi Combination Master Plan, raising alarm over the politicisation of a national development project meant to benefit communities in Masvingo Province.

Sources within government offices at Benjamin Burombo Building in Masvingo allege that Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira is handpicking Zanu PF loyalists to head key committees managing the project.

“Ezra Chadzamira is busy allocating key committees to his Zanu PF friends and bootlickers,” said one senior government official, who requested anonymity.

The Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan, as outlined by the Ministry of Information, is a comprehensive development blueprint that includes major infrastructure projects such as irrigation schemes, tourism development, energy generation, and the establishment of a new resort town.

Among the plan’s top priorities are:

Establishing irrigation schemes in Gororo (Chivi Ward 24) and Masvingo Ward 34

Rehabilitating the Banga Irrigation Scheme

Building a hotel and lodges on an island to boost tourism

Upgrading road infrastructure, including the Old Chiredzi Road Bridge

Constructing a water treatment plant and improving sewer systems

Developing both photovoltaic and hydroelectric power plants

Establishing an airport and promoting industrial growth in the region…

The master plan is intended to stimulate economic activity, protect the environment, and uplift surrounding communities in Chivi, Mwenezi, and the broader Lowveld region.

However, insiders say the plan’s noble goals are being overshadowed by political interference.

“The whole project is now captured by Zanu PF,” another source claimed. “It’s no longer about development for the people, it’s about rewarding political allies.”

There are growing fears that public resources and opportunities meant to empower local communities could instead be redirected to serve partisan interests.

By Tinashe Sambiri-Zanu PF party last week, Thursday, cancelled its Politburo meeting scheduled for the following day to allow the burial of national heroine Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Winnie Mandeya, who passed away on Monday, April 28.

In a terse statement issued late Thursday, Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa announced the cancellation, attributing the decision to instructions from Secretary General Obert Mpofu.

“The Secretary General of ZANU PF, Cde. Dr. Obert Mpofu, hereby advises all members of the postponement of the Politburo meeting announced for Friday 2nd May 2025. The meeting will be held on a later date to be advised,” read the statement.

No explanation was given at the time. 

However, it later emerged that the decision coincided with the sudden scheduling of the burial of national hero Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Winnie Mandeya, who passed away on Monday, April 28.

The burial, held on Friday at the National Heroes Acre, caught many by surprise — not only for its timing, but for the speed at which preparations were made, effectively overriding what had been billed as a key Politburo session.

Mandeya, a respected liberation war veteran and long-serving military officer, had only been declared a national hero on Wednesday evening.

Government sources say her burial date was not initially fixed for Friday, raising questions about whether the event was used as a pretext to cancel the high-stakes Politburo gathering.

Behind the Scenes Tensions

The sudden cancellation has fueled rumours of serious behind-the-scenes wrangling within the party.

With no clear explanation provided, insiders suspect the meeting was shelved due to unresolved tensions over critical issues — including succession dynamics, power consolidation, and realignments within the Central Committee and Politburo.

The Politburo is the highest decision-making body in Zanu PF outside of Congress, and it plays a crucial role in determining national policy direction and internal party strategy.

Sources had anticipated heated discussions over recent electoral performance critiques, growing grassroots dissatisfaction, and President Mnangagwa’s reported succession plans.

The postponement, coupled with the rushed burial of Mandeya, has led some political analysts to conclude that the party may be struggling to maintain internal cohesion amid rising factionalism.

“There is no doubt the Politburo meeting was set to be contentious,” said one political commentator. “Cancelling it in favour of a hastily-arranged burial for a hero who died four days earlier suggests the leadership needed to defuse a looming confrontation — or at least buy time.”

By A Correspondent
Two men have been arrested after police found them in possession of 100 bottles of Broncleer cough syrup—an illegal, codeine-based substance commonly abused for its intoxicating effects—worth an estimated US$1,000 on the street.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Drugs Section intercepted a white Toyota Quantum at Esigodini Tollgate, following a tip-off about suspected drug trafficking.

“CID Drugs received information that a white Toyota Quantum travelling from South Africa was carrying suspected illegal substances,” said Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele. “Detectives intercepted the vehicle at Esigodini Tollgate and, upon searching it, discovered a Maq surf box and a black cooler bag containing 100 bottles of Broncleer cough syrup.”

During interrogation, one occupant of the vehicle claimed the parcel was for King Denara, a known alias for Dennis Ndlovu of Efusini, Tsholotsho. Police conducted a controlled delivery operation, which resulted in Ndlovu’s arrest when he attempted to collect the parcel.

“Ndlovu implicated Edward Phiri as the owner of the drugs. He also revealed that the cough syrup had been brought from South Africa by his sister, Sithabile Sibanda,” said Asst Insp Msebele.

Ndlovu (26) and Edward Phiri (32), of Makokoba suburb, were both charged with unlawful possession of dangerous drugs. The seized Broncleer is banned in Zimbabwe unless prescribed, and is known for its addictive properties and links to mental health issues.

Tinashe Sambiri

The Community Newspapers Association of Zimbabwe (CNAZ) has called on the government to immediately release jailed journalist Blessed Mhlanga, describing his continued detention as a direct attack on press freedom.

In a strongly worded statement issued on World Press Freedom Day, CNAZ Chairman Matthew Takaona condemned the journalist’s prolonged incarceration, now stretching to 69 days without trial.

“Cognisant that Zimbabwe is a signatory to various international conventions upholding Freedom of the Press and aware that Press Freedom is a right in our own country enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe… we members of the Community Newspapers Association of Zimbabwe (CNAZ) dedicate this day to the freedom of HStv Senior Journalist Blessed Mhlanga,” the association said.

The association emphasised that Mhlanga is being punished not for a crime, but for his commitment to exposing corruption and holding those in power accountable.

“We are convinced that Mhlanga has not committed any crime but is being punished for his bravery in fighting corruption and speaking truth to power,” said Takaona.

CNAZ called on both local and international actors to increase pressure on the Zimbabwean government. “We therefore ask for the immediate release for Mhlanga,” the statement read, urging action from lawyers, human rights groups, media organisations, parliamentarians, and foreign governments.

The statement also demanded bail for the journalist and reiterated that “Journalism is not a crime and Press Freedom is a pillar of democracy.”

CNAZ concluded its statement with a reminder that the right to practice journalism is enshrined in Zimbabwe’s Constitution and that “journalism is an enabler for the enjoyment of all other rights.”

By A Correspondent

A young activist from Masvingo has been granted bail after facing charges of inciting public violence ahead of Blessed Geza’s March 31 protests.

Calvin Tinarwo, 21, from Rujeko, appeared before a Masvingo Magistrate and was released on $50 bail.

Tinarwo, who presented himself as the commander of the Masvingo Youth Task Force, is accused of mobilizing the community to participate in the March 31st demonstration, which aimed to remove President Emmerson Mnangagwa from office.

He allegedly posted a message on a WhatsApp group urging people to join the protest, stating it was a crucial moment for the country’s democracy and constitution.

The court heard that Tinarwo was apprehended on April 1 by detectives led by Assistant Inspector Archbold Muyambi. He is represented by Martin Mureri of Mureri and Matutu Legal Practitioners.

Tinarwo’s case has been adjourned to May 16. He faces charges under Section 36(1) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23, which defines incitement to commit public violence.

The post attributed to Tinarwo emphasized the importance of standing up for democracy and constitutional rights, calling on citizens to participate in the peaceful demonstration.

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF heavyweights have reportedly taken control of the Tugwi-Mukosi Combination Master Plan, raising alarm over the politicisation of a national development project meant to benefit communities in Masvingo Province.

Sources within government offices at Benjamin Burombo Building in Masvingo allege that Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira is handpicking Zanu PF loyalists to head key committees managing the project.

“Ezra Chadzamira is busy allocating key committees to his Zanu PF friends and bootlickers,” said one senior government official, who requested anonymity.

The Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan, as outlined by the Ministry of Information, is a comprehensive development blueprint that includes major infrastructure projects such as irrigation schemes, tourism development, energy generation, and the establishment of a new resort town.

Among the plan’s top priorities are:

Establishing irrigation schemes in Gororo (Chivi Ward 24) and Masvingo Ward 34

Rehabilitating the Banga Irrigation Scheme

Building a hotel and lodges on an island to boost tourism

Upgrading road infrastructure, including the Old Chiredzi Road Bridge

Constructing a water treatment plant and improving sewer systems

Developing both photovoltaic and hydroelectric power plants

Establishing an airport and promoting industrial growth in the region…

The master plan is intended to stimulate economic activity, protect the environment, and uplift surrounding communities in Chivi, Mwenezi, and the broader Lowveld region.

However, insiders say the plan’s noble goals are being overshadowed by political interference.

“The whole project is now captured by Zanu PF,” another source claimed. “It’s no longer about development for the people, it’s about rewarding political allies.”

There are growing fears that public resources and opportunities meant to empower local communities could instead be redirected to serve partisan interests.

By A Correspondent

Questions have been raised about the age of the late Zanu PF Youth League official, Beatrice Kamuche, who passed away last week and was declared a Liberation War Heroine by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Kamuche’s relatively young age has sparked public curiosity, as many wonder how she qualified for a war hero status typically reserved for those with a record of direct participation in the liberation struggle.

“We laid to rest our colleague Beatrice Kamuche in Mudzi, Mutoko. Beatrice was one of the long-serving members of the Zanu PF Youth League, having been part of the National League from 2017 to date,” said Zanu PF activist Tendai Chirau.

“Special mention to the Secretary of Youth Affairs Hon. Tino Machakaire for ensuring that our late cadre received a befitting send-off,” Chirau added, acknowledging the efforts of several Youth League leaders and members.

On social media, Zanu PF activist Mairosi Watungwa expressed gratitude for the national honor bestowed on Kamuche: “As we mourn Cde Beatrice Kamuche, who was the National Deputy Secretary for Lands in the Youth League National Executive, we thank His Excellency our President and First Secretary Cde Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for declaring her a Liberation War Heroine.”

Despite the praise and tributes, the question of whether Kamuche had any direct involvement in Zimbabwe’s 1970s liberation war—given her age—remains unanswered.

By Tinashe Sambiri

A devastating head-on collision on the R63 between Adelaide and Maqoma in the Eastern Cape has claimed 15 lives, with five others seriously injured. The accident involved a fully loaded minibus taxi and a bakkie.

According to Unathi Binqose, Provincial Transport Department Spokesperson, the Toyota Quantum taxi was traveling from Qonce to Cape Town, while the bakkie was heading in the opposite direction. Both drivers died on the scene, along with 13 passengers. One passenger succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

The severity of the crash has prompted an investigation, with police opening an inquest docket. Binqose described it as one of the deadliest crashes in the Eastern Cape in recent times.

“The MEC for Transport in the Eastern Cape, Mr. Xolile Nqatha, says our thoughts and prayers are with those families that have lost their loved ones, and we are calling for investigators to leave nothing to chance,” Binqose added. The incident has left the community in shock, with many calling for thorough investigations to determine the cause of the tragic accident.

By Munacho Gwamanda- A Wengezi village head in Mutare, Manicaland province, has fined a 45-year-old married woman, Joyline Mwatinza, US$10 for inadvertently sharing her nude photo on her WhatsApp status.

The image rapidly spread across local WhatsApp groups, sparking widespread controversy.

Mwatinza claimed that the private snapshot was taken after an “ant bite in a sensitive area” and was never intended for public viewing.

The incident led to Mwatinza being summoned to village head Mukono’s community court, where she was fined US$10 for “shaming the community.”

It was alleged that the image might have been meant for her lover, a Trip Transport bus driver only identified as Chinoz, whom she had been expecting to pass through Wengezi on the fateful day.

Mwatinza insisted in an interview that the picture was not meant for anyone, let alone the alleged Trip Trans driver that she is accused of having an illicit affair with.
“Honestly, I felt something crawling and biting me down there while vending. It was sharp, like an ant or insect. I panicked, rushed to the toilet and took a photo using my phone’s selfie camera to locate the bite. The pain was real, and the spot was swollen. The graphic photo accidentally ended up on my WhatsApp status instead of my gallery.
“The post was up for 30 minutes before I deleted it. Unfortunately, that was long enough for my fellow vendors to download and circulate it. It was an honest mistake. I didn’t send it to anyone and never meant for anyone to see it. The rumours about sending it to a lover, specifically Chinoz, are false. I don’t even know him,” she said.

Mwatinza claimed that fellow vendors were behind the embarrassment, arguing they were the ones who had viewed the WhatsApp status before she removed it.

Despite her denial, rumours about an alleged affair with the bus driver continue to circulate.

The bus driver plies the Mutare–Kurwaisimba route.
“I want the vendors arrested. I need help. They are the ones who made this go viral. I can’t even walk around freely anymore without people pointing fingers. They are calling me names, laughing behind my back,” she said, on the verge of tears.

When contacted, Chinoz denied the allegations, arguing that he did not know Mwatinza.
“I talk to many people at Wengezi, and I don’t know this Mwatinza. I am not having an affair with any woman, and if she claims I am, then she is lying,” he said.

Village head Mukono was less forgiving.
“Mwatinza disrespected herself, her husband, and our tradition. She may have meant the photo for her boyfriend, but what matters is that the whole village saw it. She is a grown up woman, a granny for that matter. What example is she setting?” he exclaimed.
Village head Mukono said the fine was solely for the nude status post, not for alleged infidelity, as Mwatinza’s husband, Gift Chiororo, had not lodged a formal complaint.
“She has always looked down on her husband because she is the breadwinner. He does the housework and fetches water, while she is a vendor at the business centre. That photo was just the latest shame she brought to this village,” he said.
Chiororo has remained quiet throughout the saga, according to villagers.
The couple has been married for 23 years and has three adult children, two of whom are married with children of their own.
Some locals are sceptical of Mwatinza’s “ant bite excuse”, calling it a creative cover-up.
“That is a first,” said Catherine Zvenyika, a neighbour.
“Next time, she should fight the ants in private. If it was really an ant bite, then that insect has done more damage than a whole scandal,” she said.
Zvenyika alleged the photo was intended for Chinoz, who had told Mwatinza he would be passing through, and expected “a teaser” before meeting her in person. “Everyone knows they have been seeing each other. He asked her to send his ‘goods,’ and she delivered. It is a shame she is now blaming some of the vendors for circulating the image, when many people saw her WhatsApp status,” she said.
-Manica Post

By James Gwati-Former Zanu PF Director for Commissariat, Davison Gomo, has urged the ruling party to intensify surveillance on opposition leader Nelson Chamisa, warning against what he described as “Western-sponsored forces.”

Gomo, who officially retired last week, was a key figure in mobilising support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa during his tenure.

“I am retiring from my position, but I will remain a Zanu PF cadre for life,” Gomo told delegates at his farewell party in Harare. “My advice is that we must protect our hard-won independence, as many sacrificed for this country’s freedom. We have a duty to defend it, and we must not allow Western-sponsored forces like Nelson Chamisa to take control.”

Among the most notable tools deployed under Gomo’s leadership is Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), a secretive organisation reportedly aligned with the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).

FAZ rose to prominence in 2022 and was accused of operating parallel electoral structures during the 2023 elections.

The group allegedly deployed operatives across Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces to gather intelligence on voters, intimidate opposition supporters, and manipulate grassroots structures to secure a Zanu PF victory.

Another initiative established under Gomo’s watch was the Varakashi social media brigade—a loosely organised network of online activists and trolls tasked with defending Zanu PF narratives, discrediting opposition leaders, and dominating digital platforms.

The Varakashi, reportedly linked to state security apparatus, played a key role in silencing dissenting voices and flooding social media with pro-government messaging during politically sensitive periods.

Gomo also spearheaded the coordination of dozens of affiliate groups—including Teachers for ED, Pastors for ED, Young Women for ED, and Diaspora 4ED—that helped embed party loyalty within various sectors of society.

By 2023, Zanu PF claimed that over 60 such affiliate organisations had registered under its banner.

While Gomo’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in Zanu PF’s mobilisation machinery, analysts argue that the infrastructure he helped build will continue to shape Zimbabwe’s political landscape.

Civil society groups and opposition parties have long accused the ruling party of using these affiliates to entrench authoritarian control, dominate rural communities, and undermine democratic processes under the guise of grassroots activism.

By Munacho Gwamanda-A military wedding brought chaos to Masvingo over the weekend after a convoy escorting the groom disrupted traffic in the city centre.

Corporal Samson Mubako and his bride, Ruvimbo Changamire, were accompanied by a full Zimbabwe National Army band and a procession of horses marching through the central business district, drawing crowds of curious onlookers.

Scores of people abandoned their businesses to join the spectacle, following the couple as they made their way through town in what became an impromptu public celebration.

-Masvingo Mirror

By A Correspondent

Information and Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera is under scrutiny after she distributed goats to villagers in Matabeleland South on May Day, a move critics have labeled as a political bribe aimed at boosting support for the ruling party and its leader, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Mavetera, a staunch Mnangagwa loyalist and leader of the pro-Zanu PF Young Women 4ED group, made the donation during a public event at Mhlabangubo School in Tsholotsho South, where she handed out 200 goats to community members under the guise of an “empowerment” initiative.

“Yesterday was a special day for us at Young Women for Economic Development,” Mavetera said in a statement. “We were at Mhlabangubo School in Tsholotsho South, Mat North, where we distributed 200 goats, marking the final phase of our initial nationwide empowerment program.”

She went on to praise the effort as part of a broader development initiative, noting: “During the course of the initiative we have empowered young women through sustainable livelihoods in goat rearing, pig farming, and rabbitry.”

While Mavetera framed the event as part of a legitimate economic development program, political analysts and opposition figures argue the gesture was little more than vote-buying in a region long neglected by the central government. The timing and symbolism—on Workers’ Day—only intensified the criticism.

“This Workers’ Day, we did more than just remember the workers and heroes like Benjamin Burombo and Ubaba Dr. Joshua Nkomo,” she added. “We honored hardworking young women Zimbabweans by investing in their future. Agriculture is wealth, and empowerment is freedom.”

Observers, however, say Mavetera’s gesture reflects a growing trend within Zanu PF of using state-aligned resources and politically branded groups to maintain loyalty in rural areas. “You can call it empowerment, but it’s clear this is a political transaction,” said one civil society leader in Bulawayo. “These so-called donations come with expectations of allegiance, especially in an election-sensitive climate.”

Mavetera ended her statement by expressing gratitude to those involved: “I am grateful to all who made this possible. The journey continues.”

As the economic crisis deepens and pressure mounts on Mnangagwa’s administration, critics warn that patronage-driven programs like these only entrench inequality and undermine genuine development efforts.

By Tinashe Sambiri

A fresh wave of internal conflict has erupted within Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), after Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s Interim Secretary General, called for a parliamentary caucus meeting—sparking outrage and firm rejection from the party’s official leadership. The CCC has denounced Tshabangu’s legitimacy, accusing him of political opportunism and using the courts to undermine democratic processes.

In a strongly worded statement issued by the CCC Communications Department on May 3, the party dismissed Tshabangu’s authority, saying his position is based on a contested High Court default judgment and lacks any democratic or constitutional foundation.

“We note with great concern the circulating document issued by Mr. Sengezo Tshabangu, who falsely purports to be the Interim Secretary General of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Leader of Opposition in Parliament,” the statement read.

Tshabangu’s attempt to convene a caucus, according to the CCC, is rooted in a default court ruling that the party says is currently being challenged through formal legal processes.

“A default judgment does not amount to a final determination on the substantive merits of the matter,” the CCC emphasized. “The CCC has filed a formal application for rescission of the judgment, along with applications for condonation and extension of time. Until these processes are resolved, no authority can be drawn from that judgment.”

Party spokesperson Willias Madzimure accused Tshabangu of exploiting legal technicalities to usurp power. “The laws of Zimbabwe are clear: the term of office for a legitimately elected structure of any political party does not expire arbitrarily or through unilateral declarations,” he said.

The party questioned the legitimacy of Tshabangu’s claims, highlighting that no official CCC organ had ever appointed him. “When, where, and which party organs resolved to appoint Tshabangu as Interim Secretary General?” the statement asked. “He is fully aware that he is not.”

The CCC also pointed out that Tshabangu had previously lost a High Court case against the party and has since appealed to the Supreme Court, with a hearing set for mid-May.

“We take issue with the political opportunism displayed in his call for a meeting,” Madzimure said. “His actions are not only divisive but undermine the collective struggles of the Zimbabwean people.”

Reiterating its position, the CCC said any claims to leadership or decision-making powers outside of its constitutional framework are “null and void.”

“Let it be known to all party members, citizens, stakeholders, and the international community that the CCC remains firmly guided by its Constitution, its values, and its democratic processes,” the statement concluded.

Despite ongoing turmoil, the party affirmed its commitment to democratic principles. “The CCC remains unshaken in the commitment to return power to the citizens and to resist all attempts—external or internal—to divert its democratic path.”

By Showbiz Reporter- A dramatic scene unfolded at Entumbane’s Presbyterian Church over the weekend after a two-year secret lover halted the wedding of popular Tabernacle Church pastor, Webby Mukoka.

The wedding, which was moments away from being solemnised, was brought to a sudden stop when an elderly man, Mr. Claudius Munenge, coincidentally sharing a surname with the bride but not related, stood up and objected just before the officiating pastor could proceed with the rites.

Mukoka was set to tie the knot with Millet Munenge, a Harare-based detective with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, in what was expected to be a high-profile union. 

However, the ceremony was thrown into chaos when the pastor’s lover—who has allegedly been cohabiting with him and raising his child—took steps to expose the relationship.

Sources close to the matter say the woman, who works for a brewery company in Bulawayo, had been in a relationship with Mukoka for two years and was devastated to learn about the wedding. 

She has since filed a report at Entumbane Police Station after receiving alleged death threats.

“We are at the police camp after I heard that these people want to attack me tonight,” she said. “I’m making a formal police report but won’t be sleeping at home for the next couple of days.”

Fearing for her safety, the woman has temporarily moved in with her twin sister. 

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local religious community, with many calling for an internal investigation into the pastor’s conduct.

By A Correspondent

Two people are feared dead following a horrific head-on collision that occurred on Friday at the Mucheke River Bridge in Masvingo City, sending shockwaves through the local community.

The accident involved a Mazda B2200 truck and a speeding Toyota GD6, which, according to police sources, was travelling from the city centre at an excessive speed.

After colliding head-on with the Mazda, the GD6 reportedly lost control and ploughed into a commuter omnibus that was ahead of it.

While authorities have not officially confirmed the number of fatalities, police at the scene believe the worst.

“We suspect that two occupants from the Mazda B2200 may have died on the spot due to the impact,” said a Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer.

“The driver of the GD6 was clearly speeding, and after hitting the Mazda, the vehicle couldn’t stop and slammed into the kombi as well.”

No official statement has been released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.

Emergency responders quickly attended the scene, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities have urged motorists to observe speed limits and exercise caution, especially in high-traffic areas like Mucheke Bridge, which has seen several accidents in recent years.

More details are expected to emerge as the police complete their report.

By Tinashe Sambiri

A fresh wave of internal conflict has erupted within Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), after Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the party’s Interim Secretary General, called for a parliamentary caucus meeting—sparking outrage and firm rejection from the party’s official leadership. The CCC has denounced Tshabangu’s legitimacy, accusing him of political opportunism and using the courts to undermine democratic processes.

In a strongly worded statement issued by the CCC Communications Department on May 3, the party dismissed Tshabangu’s authority, saying his position is based on a contested High Court default judgment and lacks any democratic or constitutional foundation.

“We note with great concern the circulating document issued by Mr. Sengezo Tshabangu, who falsely purports to be the Interim Secretary General of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Leader of Opposition in Parliament,” the statement read.

Tshabangu’s attempt to convene a caucus, according to the CCC, is rooted in a default court ruling that the party says is currently being challenged through formal legal processes.

“A default judgment does not amount to a final determination on the substantive merits of the matter,” the CCC emphasized. “The CCC has filed a formal application for rescission of the judgment, along with applications for condonation and extension of time. Until these processes are resolved, no authority can be drawn from that judgment.”

Party spokesperson Willias Madzimure accused Tshabangu of exploiting legal technicalities to usurp power. “The laws of Zimbabwe are clear: the term of office for a legitimately elected structure of any political party does not expire arbitrarily or through unilateral declarations,” he said.

The party questioned the legitimacy of Tshabangu’s claims, highlighting that no official CCC organ had ever appointed him. “When, where, and which party organs resolved to appoint Tshabangu as Interim Secretary General?” the statement asked. “He is fully aware that he is not.”

The CCC also pointed out that Tshabangu had previously lost a High Court case against the party and has since appealed to the Supreme Court, with a hearing set for mid-May.

“We take issue with the political opportunism displayed in his call for a meeting,” Madzimure said. “His actions are not only divisive but undermine the collective struggles of the Zimbabwean people.”

Reiterating its position, the CCC said any claims to leadership or decision-making powers outside of its constitutional framework are “null and void.”

“Let it be known to all party members, citizens, stakeholders, and the international community that the CCC remains firmly guided by its Constitution, its values, and its democratic processes,” the statement concluded.

Despite ongoing turmoil, the party affirmed its commitment to democratic principles. “The CCC remains unshaken in the commitment to return power to the citizens and to resist all attempts—external or internal—to divert its democratic path.”

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF leader and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa held a closed-door meeting with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo at State House in Harare on Friday, fueling speculation amid rising tensions within the ruling party.

The visit, which was not announced in advance, has stirred political chatter as internal disputes within Zanu PF continue to escalate. With increasing pressure from within the party, observers suggest that Mnangagwa may be seeking counsel from Obasanjo, a respected elder statesman on the African continent.

“President ED Mnangagwa met with former Nigerian President, His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo, at State House in Harare,” Zanu PF said in a brief statement on Friday. The party, however, did not provide any details on the agenda or outcome of the meeting.

The timing of Obasanjo’s visit comes amid growing unrest in Zanu PF ranks. Prominent war veteran Blessed Geza recently called on Mnangagwa to resign, citing the president’s alleged incapacity and the unchecked looting of public funds by his inner circle.

“Mnangagwa must go. He has failed to lead and has allowed his cronies to plunder state resources with impunity,” Geza said in a strongly worded statement earlier this week.

While the meeting’s purpose remains undisclosed, its secrecy and the current political climate suggest that the Zanu PF leader may be maneuvering to address internal dissent and shore up his waning support.

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has drawn sharp criticism for remarks seen as an implicit endorsement of controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, following a speech in which he declared that his government rewards “honest” and “hardworking” individuals. The comments, delivered at the burial of the late Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Winnie Mandeya, have sparked public outrage amid growing concerns about corruption and political patronage within the ruling Zanu PF.

“We are in control of our own future,” said Mnangagwa. “Honesty, hard work, patriotism, zeal, and dedication will always be rewarded in the Second Republic. My government will always recognise those values and virtues.”

Although Mnangagwa did not mention Chivayo by name, his refusal to condemn the businessman—who has become a symbol of alleged state capture and corruption—was widely interpreted as a tacit endorsement. Chivayo, linked to questionable multi-million-dollar government tenders, continues to flaunt his wealth on social media while enjoying proximity to high-ranking officials.

“By failing to distance himself from Chivayo and instead praising so-called ‘hardworking’ individuals, Mnangagwa effectively legitimises looting,” said one political analyst. “It sends a dangerous message: loyalty to the system, not integrity, is what gets rewarded.”

The timing of the remarks has added fuel to the fire. Mnangagwa also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to Vision 2030—his flagship development agenda—which he insists will transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy. But critics argue the initiative has become a political slogan detached from economic reality, especially as public frustration grows over inflation, unemployment, and elite enrichment.

The president’s use of liberation war rhetoric to defend his administration’s direction has done little to calm tensions, especially as internal Zanu PF divisions deepen and calls for leadership renewal intensify. His silence on high-profile corruption scandals, including Chivayo’s, is increasingly viewed as complicity.

As the gap widens between government rhetoric and public experience, Mnangagwa’s attempt to project strength and vision is being undercut by accusations of hypocrisy and misplaced loyalty. Whether Vision 2030 can regain credibility—or whether the president can maintain his grip on power—remains to be seen.

By A Correspondent

Despite mounting pressure from both within and outside his party, Zanu PF leader President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed his commitment to the controversial Vision 2030 agenda—signaling his intention to remain in power amid growing calls for his resignation.

Speaking at the burial of the late Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Winnie Mandeya, also known as Cde Cabby Rujeko Rwehondo, Mnangagwa used the national platform to double down on his long-term development plan.

His remarks come at a time of rising political tension, economic instability, and deepening factionalism within Zanu PF.

“We are in control of our own future,” said Mnangagwa, asserting that the goals set under Vision 2030 remain central to his administration’s priorities. “Honesty, hard work, patriotism, zeal, and dedication will always be rewarded in the Second Republic. My government will always recognise those values and virtues.”

The president’s comments were widely seen as a strategic reaffirmation of authority, amid speculation that his leadership is under threat. Critics argue that the Vision 2030 agenda—which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by the end of the decade—lacks transparency, measurable progress, and grassroots support.

Political analysts believe Mnangagwa’s insistence on the 2030 vision is not just about economic development, but also a calculated move to extend his political lifespan. “He’s tying national aspirations to his own leadership,” one Harare-based analyst said.

“In essence, abandoning Vision 2030 would mean admitting failure or stepping aside—neither of which he’s prepared to do.”

Meanwhile, public dissatisfaction continues to grow, driven by high inflation, unemployment, and allegations of corruption at the highest levels. The president’s speech, rooted in liberation war rhetoric, sought to remind the nation of its revolutionary origins—a frequent tactic used to invoke loyalty and distract from present crises.

As the battle over succession and leadership intensifies, Mnangagwa’s reiteration of his 2030 agenda sends a clear message to both allies and rivals: he is not ready to relinquish control. Whether the nation can be persuaded to share his long-term vision, however, remains to be seen.

By A Correspondent

Information and Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera is under scrutiny after she distributed goats to villagers in Matabeleland South on May Day, a move critics have labeled as a political bribe aimed at boosting support for the ruling party and its leader, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Mavetera, a staunch Mnangagwa loyalist and leader of the pro-Zanu PF Young Women 4ED group, made the donation during a public event at Mhlabangubo School in Tsholotsho South, where she handed out 200 goats to community members under the guise of an “empowerment” initiative.

“Yesterday was a special day for us at Young Women for Economic Development,” Mavetera said in a statement. “We were at Mhlabangubo School in Tsholotsho South, Mat North, where we distributed 200 goats, marking the final phase of our initial nationwide empowerment program.”

She went on to praise the effort as part of a broader development initiative, noting: “During the course of the initiative we have empowered young women through sustainable livelihoods in goat rearing, pig farming, and rabbitry.”

While Mavetera framed the event as part of a legitimate economic development program, political analysts and opposition figures argue the gesture was little more than vote-buying in a region long neglected by the central government. The timing and symbolism—on Workers’ Day—only intensified the criticism.

“This Workers’ Day, we did more than just remember the workers and heroes like Benjamin Burombo and Ubaba Dr. Joshua Nkomo,” she added. “We honored hardworking young women Zimbabweans by investing in their future. Agriculture is wealth, and empowerment is freedom.”

Observers, however, say Mavetera’s gesture reflects a growing trend within Zanu PF of using state-aligned resources and politically branded groups to maintain loyalty in rural areas. “You can call it empowerment, but it’s clear this is a political transaction,” said one civil society leader in Bulawayo. “These so-called donations come with expectations of allegiance, especially in an election-sensitive climate.”

Mavetera ended her statement by expressing gratitude to those involved: “I am grateful to all who made this possible. The journey continues.”

As the economic crisis deepens and pressure mounts on Mnangagwa’s administration, critics warn that patronage-driven programs like these only entrench inequality and undermine genuine development efforts.

By A Correspondent

The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) is facing mounting criticism from its own contract workers, who claim they have gone nearly six months without receiving their promised wages despite working under harsh conditions in Masvingo Province.

More than 50 employees, contracted by the power utility in November, were deployed across rural districts to repair and maintain electricity infrastructure—particularly 9- and 12-meter poles damaged by rains and general wear. However, the workers allege that despite repeated assurances, ZESA has not paid them a single cent.

“We were promised payment in US dollars, and to this day, we have not been paid,” said one disgruntled worker at the ZESA depot in Masvingo. “We’ve been working day and night, climbing poles, fixing cables, doing everything required of us—yet we can’t even feed our families.”

Another employee expressed frustration, stating: “This is exploitation. ZESA signed contracts with us in good faith, but now they are pretending we don’t exist. They ignore our calls and inquiries. Some of us have been forced to borrow just to survive.”

The workers, many of whom have families to support, say they are now considering legal action or protest if the situation is not resolved urgently.

When approached for comment, a ZESA official at the Masvingo depot denied knowledge of the matter. “I am not aware of what you are talking about,” the officer said. “As far as I am concerned, everything is under control.”

The response has only deepened the anger among the workers, who accuse management of turning a blind eye to their plight. They are demanding immediate payment of all outstanding wages and greater transparency from the company.

The standoff raises broader concerns about labour practices at state-owned enterprises in Zimbabwe, where delayed wages and poor working conditions have become increasingly common.

By Munacho Gwamanda –The government has announced ambitious plans to demolish the dilapidated Mbare flats and construct new high-rise buildings, a move it claims will decongest the area and improve living conditions. 

However, critics say this is yet another propaganda stunt meant to mask over two decades of state failure to provide even the most basic urban services.

The pronouncements were made by National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Daniel Garwe on the sidelines of the launch of “Operation Chenesa Harare,” a hygiene campaign launched on Wednesday in response to a worsening bed bug infestation — locally known as tsikidzi — that has gripped the overcrowded suburb.

Addressing journalists at the event, Minister Garwe admitted to the dire state of urban housing in Zimbabwe’s capital.

“Not only in Mbare, but in the majority of our high-density settlements, it is overcrowded. And these buildings you are seeing here, these flats or hostels, have seen their better days,” he said.

Garwe claimed that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had instructed the government to embark on an “urgent” programme of urban regeneration under Vision 2030 — a policy which, critics argue, increasingly serves as a rhetorical shield for failed service delivery and deepening urban decay.

“Mbare will be a place to be. We want to ensure that the targets of Vision 2030 are achieved earlier, and this will be seen through the construction of new high-rise flats,” said Garwe, offering no timelines, budgets, or concrete plans for the ambitious project.

He outlined a vague two-pronged strategy — “building better backwards” by refurbishing existing flats, and “building better forward” through the construction of new units.

“We have got pieces of land here,” he said. “Build new blocks of flats so that we decongest the existing infrastructure.”

The proposed redevelopment comes amid public outcry over deteriorating sanitary conditions in Mbare, worsened by chronic underinvestment, neglect by the City of Harare, and government indifference.

The suburb, once an iconic residential hub, has become emblematic of Zimbabwe’s broader urban crisis.

The government’s sudden interest in Mbare coincides with Operation Chenesa Harare, its latest short-term campaign to deal with the tsikidzi menace that erupted three weeks ago.

While Garwe touted the multi-ministerial response involving fumigation and health checks, residents pointed out that such problems are symptoms of a broken urban system — one the ruling Zanu PF government has failed to maintain or reform since the early 2000s.

“Three weeks ago, there was an outbreak of bed bugs here in Mbare called tsikidzi. We then sat down with the City of Harare and created some teams who began fumigation,” said Garwe. 

He admitted that efforts had initially stalled due to residents resisting access, a reflection of growing mistrust between citizens and the authorities.

In a show of force, Garwe stressed that the campaign was a “whole-of-government approach” supported by multiple ministries, including Health, Women’s Affairs, and Information — a level of mobilization observers say is rarely seen when it comes to addressing longstanding infrastructure decay.

Analysts note that the timing of the housing announcements — in the middle of a public health crisis — signals a political attempt to rebrand failure as visionary leadership. 

With no delivery track record and little transparency on financing or timelines, the new flats promise risks becoming yet another lofty pledge in the regime’s growing catalogue of propaganda pronouncements.

By Munacho Gwamanda-Zanu PF’s Director for Commissariat, Dr. Davison Gomo, has retired from his position.

Gomo, who worked under four different Zanu PF national political commissars during his tenure, was honoured at a ‘retirement’ ceremony in Harare this week. 

Despite his ‘resignation’, Gomo reaffirmed his commitment to the ruling party, declaring he remained “a Zanu PF cadre for life.”

“I am retiring from my position, but I will never retire from politics,” Gomo said. “We must continue to protect our hard-won independence. We cannot allow Western-sponsored elements like Nelson Chamisa to reverse the gains of the liberation struggle.”

Zanu PF Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha praised Gomo’s legacy, singling him out as the architect behind the party’s network of affiliates that played a key role in voter mobilisation during the disputed August 2023 general elections.

“When I came into the commissariat, I was introduced to these affiliates and quickly realised that Dr Gomo had meticulously moulded them into powerful extensions of the party’s mobilisation machinery,” Machacha said. “He gave the commissariat strategic depth. I urge all affiliates to create updated membership registers, just as Dr Gomo had championed.”

Among the most prominent of these affiliates is the Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), a shadowy organisation aligned to the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO). 

FAZ came to prominence in 2022 and was accused of running parallel electoral structures during the 2023 elections. 

The group deployed operatives across the country’s 10 provinces, gathering intelligence on voters, intimidating opposition supporters, and manipulating community-based structures to influence electoral outcomes in favour of Zanu PF.

Another entity that emerged under Gomo’s watch was the Varakashi social media brigade, a loose coalition of online activists and trolls tasked with defending Zanu PF narratives, discrediting opposition leaders, and controlling the digital information space.

The Varakashi, reportedly linked to state security, aggressively attacked dissenting voices online and were instrumental in drowning out criticism of the government during key political moments.

Under Gomo’s coordination, these affiliates—along with dozens of others such as Teachers for ED, Pastors for ED, Young Women for ED, and Diaspora 4ED—formed an ecosystem of loyalty networks that blurred the lines between civil society and the ruling party’s political objectives.

By 2023, Zanu PF claimed more than 60 affiliate groups had registered under its umbrella.

At the farewell event, affiliate leaders and party officials hailed Gomo’s “strategic foresight.”

“We want to thank you for the journey you have walked,” said ZANU PF UK branch political commissar, Gwatidzo. “We will carry forward your legacy by mobilising diasporans to return and contribute to rebuilding Zimbabwe under Zanu PF.”

Bornface Mutize, another party loyalist and affiliate organiser, added: “As we move forward, we must remain resolute in defending the party for future generations.”

While Gomo’s retirement marks the end of an era in the commissariat, critics argue that his influence will continue to loom large, particularly through the affiliate structures he helped institutionalise.

Civil society organisations and opposition parties continue to accuse Zanu PF of using these affiliates to entrench authoritarianism, control rural communities, and undermine democratic processes under the guise of grassroots mobilisation.

By A Correspondent

A gruesome discovery was made in a field where an unidentified man’s body was found mutilated, with his head, hands, and feet severed. The brutal murder is believed to have occurred on Saturday morning, with the body being discovered later that day.

Inspector Milton Mundembe, the Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson for Mashonaland Province, described the scene: “An unknown accused person committed this callous murder… later dumped this body in a field without the head, both hands and feet.”

The body is currently being held at Bindura Hospital mortuary. Authorities are urging anyone with missing relatives to come forward and contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Bindura or the nearest police station.

Given the nature of the crime, authorities suspect that ritualistic practices may be involved. Inspector Mundembe’s words paint a chilling picture: the body was deliberately mutilated, sparking fears of a dark motive behind the murder.

As the investigation unfolds, the police are working to identify the victim and track down the perpetrators. Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to the authorities.

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF’s National Political Commissar, Munyaradzi Machacha, has praised Dr. Davison Gomo for his efforts in undermining Zimbabwe’s political opposition.

Speaking at Gomo’s retirement ceremony on Friday, Machacha commended the outgoing Zanu PF Director for Commissariat for his strategic work in mobilizing support ahead of the 2023 general elections.

In an official statement, Zanu PF highlighted Gomo’s contribution to strengthening the party’s affiliate structures:

“ZANU PF National Political Commissar, Munyaradzi Machacha, has paid tribute to ruling party strategists for establishing vibrant affiliates that played a crucial role in mobilising the electorate during the August 2023 general elections.

Speaking at the retirement ceremony for ZANU PF Director for Commissariat, Dr. Davison Gomo, Machacha acknowledged Dr. Gomo’s efforts in shaping these affiliates into a vital extension of the party. Having served under four political commissars, Dr. Gomo urged party members to reject divisive tendencies and continue defending the ruling party.”

By A Correspondent

ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has placed the blame for Bulawayo’s stalled development squarely on the shoulders of the city’s mayor, David Coltart, accusing him of prioritizing political agendas over economic progress.

Speaking during a press briefing held on May 1, Mutsvangwa took aim at Coltart, saying the mayor was failing to recognize the national efforts being made to drive industrial growth—particularly those led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

“His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa is committed to providing working capital for the people of Zimbabwe,” Mutsvangwa declared, before criticizing Coltart for being “oblivious” to the developments taking place under the president’s leadership.

Mutsvangwa pointed to the launch of a new steel plant as a major success story, saying it marked Zimbabwe’s emergence as a key player in the regional steel industry. “Zimbabwe leads Sub-Saharan Africa in this sector, with only Egypt and Morocco as our closest competitors,” he said.

He argued that steel was critical to any country’s urbanization process and stressed that the president’s efforts were laying a foundation for a modern and industrialized Zimbabwe.

Turning to the state of Bulawayo, Mutsvangwa lamented what he described as a lack of initiative from the city’s leadership. “Bulawayo should not only be celebrated as the City of Kings and Queens but must also reclaim its status as a thriving industrial hub,” he said. He urged residents to hold their mayor accountable: “We encourage citizens to ask Mayor Coltart what tangible steps he has taken to restore Bulawayo’s industrial legacy.”

The ZANU PF official further accused Coltart of being more concerned with “tribal disputes” and “politicking” than with attracting investment or driving the city’s economic recovery. He recalled a conversation in which he claims Coltart dismissed engaging with a local steel company due to its Chinese ownership.

“I posed a question to Mr. Coltart about how he plans to leverage the presence of a modern steel company, but his response was that, since it’s a Chinese-owned enterprise, he prefers not to be involved,” said Mutsvangwa. “He has an attitude against the Chinese.”

The remarks are part of a broader pattern in which Mutsvangwa has consistently shifted responsibility for local governance challenges to opposition-led councils, often portraying ZANU PF’s initiatives as being obstructed by what he frames as uncooperative or politically motivated local leaders.

Prominent human rights advocate and community activist Prosper Tiringindi met with Masvingo Mayor Councillor Aleck Tabe on Thursday in what is being described as a significant step toward addressing the concerns of local residents.

The meeting, which took place at the Masvingo Civic Centre, also included Masvingo Town Clerk Edward Mukaratirwa. Tiringindi, known for his relentless activism and repeated arrests in the course of defending human rights, welcomed the engagement as a breakthrough in fostering dialogue between local government and the community.

“It was a great experience meeting and engaging in discussion with Masvingo Town Clerk Edward Mukaratirwa and Mayor Aleck Tabe at the Masvingo Civic Centre — truly a memorable moment,” Tiringindi said.

While details of the discussions remain private, sources close to the meeting indicated that issues raised included service delivery challenges, housing concerns, and citizen participation in municipal affairs.

Tiringindi’s involvement in community issues has often placed him at odds with authorities, but the recent meeting suggests a possible shift toward more collaborative engagement.

Local observers say the meeting reflects growing pressure on municipal leaders to be more responsive to public concerns amid mounting economic and infrastructure challenges in Masvingo.

By A Correspondent

ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has placed the blame for Bulawayo’s stalled development squarely on the shoulders of the city’s mayor, David Coltart, accusing him of prioritizing political agendas over economic progress.

Speaking during a press briefing held on May 1, Mutsvangwa took aim at Coltart, saying the mayor was failing to recognize the national efforts being made to drive industrial growth—particularly those led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

“His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa is committed to providing working capital for the people of Zimbabwe,” Mutsvangwa declared, before criticizing Coltart for being “oblivious” to the developments taking place under the president’s leadership.

Mutsvangwa pointed to the launch of a new steel plant as a major success story, saying it marked Zimbabwe’s emergence as a key player in the regional steel industry. “Zimbabwe leads Sub-Saharan Africa in this sector, with only Egypt and Morocco as our closest competitors,” he said.

He argued that steel was critical to any country’s urbanization process and stressed that the president’s efforts were laying a foundation for a modern and industrialized Zimbabwe.

Turning to the state of Bulawayo, Mutsvangwa lamented what he described as a lack of initiative from the city’s leadership. “Bulawayo should not only be celebrated as the City of Kings and Queens but must also reclaim its status as a thriving industrial hub,” he said. He urged residents to hold their mayor accountable: “We encourage citizens to ask Mayor Coltart what tangible steps he has taken to restore Bulawayo’s industrial legacy.”

The ZANU PF official further accused Coltart of being more concerned with “tribal disputes” and “politicking” than with attracting investment or driving the city’s economic recovery. He recalled a conversation in which he claims Coltart dismissed engaging with a local steel company due to its Chinese ownership.

“I posed a question to Mr. Coltart about how he plans to leverage the presence of a modern steel company, but his response was that, since it’s a Chinese-owned enterprise, he prefers not to be involved,” said Mutsvangwa. “He has an attitude against the Chinese.”

The remarks are part of a broader pattern in which Mutsvangwa has consistently shifted responsibility for local governance challenges to opposition-led councils, often portraying ZANU PF’s initiatives as being obstructed by what he frames as uncooperative or politically motivated local leaders.

By A Correspondent

Reports from Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, suggest that some people living with HIV are being asked to pay unofficial fees to access antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, as the country faces increasing pressure on its ARV supply chain.

The situation is believed to have worsened following a 90-day freeze on international aid implemented by former U.S. President Donald Trump on January 20, which disrupted the flow of crucial medical supplies, including HIV medication.

Zimbabwe has made significant progress in its HIV response. By 2023, it had become one of just five African countries to reach the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets: 95% of HIV-positive individuals knew their status, 98% of those were on treatment, and 95% had achieved viral suppression. However, recent supply disruptions now cast a shadow over those gains.

In many clinics, long lines of patients are now a daily reality, with growing fears about the future availability of ARVs. Some individuals have resorted to bribing clinic staff to receive their full six-month medication allotments.

One nurse at a Harare clinic, speaking anonymously to Health Policy Watch, confirmed that some health workers are profiting from the situation. “With our salaries being so low and ARVs becoming scarce, we’ve started charging patients a small amount under the table. It’s our chance to make a little extra,” the nurse revealed.

As of 2022, roughly 1.3 million people in Zimbabwe were living with HIV, and 1.2 million were receiving treatment. The current uncertainty places these lives at risk if the supply situation does not stabilize soon.

Despite these concerns, government officials have publicly dismissed claims of a nationwide ARV shortage. In February, during a parliamentary session, Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora assured lawmakers that “Zimbabwe has enough ARVs to last for at least the next six months,” and emphasized that treatment services would continue uninterrupted, even with international funding in flux.

A separate government spokesperson also rejected reports of a shortfall, stating, “There is no crisis. The supply of ARVs is being managed and patients will continue to receive the medication they need.”

Still, with frontline workers admitting to informal fees and patients expressing fear, many in the HIV-positive community remain unconvinced.

By Munacho Gwamanda-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has returned to the National Heroes Acre, this time to bury the country’s first female Air Force general, Retired Air Vice Marshal Winnie Cabby Mandeya.

Mandeya died on Monday, just two days before Mnangagwa presided over the burial of two other senior security officials, Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) Director Walter Basopo and Brigadier General Victor Rugani, at the same national shrine in Harare.

Mandeya, a pioneering figure in Zimbabwe’s military, passed away on 28 April at a hospital in the capital. 

She was 64.

In recognition of her historic contribution, the ruling Zanu PF party has conferred national heroine status on Mandeya, making her the first woman in the Air Force of Zimbabwe to receive this honour. 

Her rank of Air Vice Marshal is equivalent to that of a Major General in the Zimbabwe National Army.

The announcement was made by Zanu PF national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, who visited the family on Tuesday evening to deliver the news.

He said the government was ready to inter her at the National Heroes Acre on Thursday, 2 May, pending the family’s consent.

“The national heroine has been granted the highest recognition, and she will be laid to rest among other distinguished heroes and heroines of our country at the National Heroes Acre,” said Machacha. “If the family is comfortable with that, then the government will begin making the necessary arrangements.”

A liberation war veteran and trailblazer in military leadership, Mandeya joined the armed struggle on 29 September 1975.

She underwent military training at Nachingweya in Tanzania before being deployed to Gaza Province, where she served until 1978. 

She was later selected for a nursing course, enhancing her skills for the post-war state-building efforts.

After independence in 1980, Mandeya worked in the President’s Department, where she contributed to the 1981 Commission of Inquiry into Missing Persons. 

She officially joined the Air Force of Zimbabwe on 1 July 1984 and rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected officers in the service, eventually attaining the rank of Air Vice Marshal before retiring.

Her death adds to a growing list of senior military and intelligence figures who have died in recent years, many under circumstances that have fuelled speculation.

Since the 2017 military coup that toppled long-time ruler Robert Mugabe and ushered Mnangagwa into power with the backing of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the country has witnessed a steady stream of high-profile deaths within the security sector.

Among them was Major General Trust Mugoba, who died in September 2019 shortly after being recalled from the African Union. 

Just weeks later, Lieutenant General Edzai Chimonyo, then commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, died of cancer in July 2021.

Another key figure from the coup era, Lieutenant General Engelbert Rugeje, was quietly retired from the army and removed from the Zanu PF politburo. 

He has since faded from public life amid reports of ill health.

The string of deaths, including several generals within a short span, has sparked whispers of a silent purge or strategic sidelining of figures central to the post-coup realignment.

While official explanations have often cited natural causes such as cancer or COVID-19, critics argue that the frequency and political relevance of the deceased point to deeper tensions and rivalries within the ruling elite and security apparatus.

In this charged context, the decision to honour AVM Mandeya as a national heroine is seen not only as a recognition of her service to Zimbabwe’s liberation and state institutions, but also as a strategic move to reinforce loyalty within the military establishment amid ongoing power shifts.

Tinotenda Hove – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially set June 14 as the date for parliamentary by-elections in Gutu East and Insiza North constituencies. This follows the expulsion of former Gutu East MP Benjamin Ganyiwa from Zanu PF for acts of indiscipline and the death of Insiza North legislator Farai Taruvinga.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) confirmed preparations are underway for the elections, with the Nomination Courts expected to sit on May 15.

Speaking to this publication, a ZEC official said, “In line with the President’s proclamation, the Commission is making all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth electoral process in both constituencies. Nomination Courts will sit on May 15 as required by law.”

Zanu PF has already selected its candidate for Gutu East through a primary election held last month. Zvarevashe Masvingise, a former Gutu Rural District Ward 14 Councillor, emerged victorious from a field of six candidates.

In Insiza North, Zanu PF is yet to finalise its candidate. Ten aspirants are expected to contest in the party’s primary elections before the official nomination.

The ZEC official further stated, “We are guided by the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act, and all electoral processes will be conducted transparently and within the stipulated timelines.”

The by-elections are seen as a test of political strength ahead of future national polls.

By Munacho Gwamanda- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the Gutu East and Insiza North constituencies vacant following the expulsion and death of their former representatives, respectively.

The Gutu East constituency was held by Benjamin Ganyiwa, who was expelled from ZANU PF for acts of indiscipline, while Insiza North was represented by the late Farai Taruvinga, who passed away last month.

Ganyiwa was fired for resisting Mnangagwa’s 2030 Agenda.

The President’s announcement followed a formal notification from the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, on 17 April.

The Nomination Courts for the constituencies are scheduled to convene on 15 May.

By Munacho Gwamanda –The government has announced ambitious plans to demolish the dilapidated Mbare flats and construct new high-rise buildings, a move it claims will decongest the area and improve living conditions. 

However, critics say this is yet another propaganda stunt meant to mask over two decades of state failure to provide even the most basic urban services.

The pronouncements were made by National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Daniel Garwe on the sidelines of the launch of “Operation Chenesa Harare,” a hygiene campaign launched on Wednesday in response to a worsening bed bug infestation — locally known as tsikidzi — that has gripped the overcrowded suburb.

Addressing journalists at the event, Minister Garwe admitted to the dire state of urban housing in Zimbabwe’s capital.

“Not only in Mbare, but in the majority of our high-density settlements, it is overcrowded. And these buildings you are seeing here, these flats or hostels, have seen their better days,” he said.

Garwe claimed that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had instructed the government to embark on an “urgent” programme of urban regeneration under Vision 2030 — a policy which, critics argue, increasingly serves as a rhetorical shield for failed service delivery and deepening urban decay.

“Mbare will be a place to be. We want to ensure that the targets of Vision 2030 are achieved earlier, and this will be seen through the construction of new high-rise flats,” said Garwe, offering no timelines, budgets, or concrete plans for the ambitious project.

He outlined a vague two-pronged strategy — “building better backwards” by refurbishing existing flats, and “building better forward” through the construction of new units.

“We have got pieces of land here,” he said. “Build new blocks of flats so that we decongest the existing infrastructure.”

The proposed redevelopment comes amid public outcry over deteriorating sanitary conditions in Mbare, worsened by chronic underinvestment, neglect by the City of Harare, and government indifference.

The suburb, once an iconic residential hub, has become emblematic of Zimbabwe’s broader urban crisis.

The government’s sudden interest in Mbare coincides with Operation Chenesa Harare, its latest short-term campaign to deal with the tsikidzi menace that erupted three weeks ago.

While Garwe touted the multi-ministerial response involving fumigation and health checks, residents pointed out that such problems are symptoms of a broken urban system — one the ruling Zanu PF government has failed to maintain or reform since the early 2000s.

“Three weeks ago, there was an outbreak of bed bugs here in Mbare called tsikidzi. We then sat down with the City of Harare and created some teams who began fumigation,” said Garwe. 

He admitted that efforts had initially stalled due to residents resisting access, a reflection of growing mistrust between citizens and the authorities.

In a show of force, Garwe stressed that the campaign was a “whole-of-government approach” supported by multiple ministries, including Health, Women’s Affairs, and Information — a level of mobilization observers say is rarely seen when it comes to addressing longstanding infrastructure decay.

Analysts note that the timing of the housing announcements — in the middle of a public health crisis — signals a political attempt to rebrand failure as visionary leadership. 

With no delivery track record and little transparency on financing or timelines, the new flats promise risks becoming yet another lofty pledge in the regime’s growing catalogue of propaganda pronouncements.

By A Correspondent

Tensions are running high at Musenyereki Primary School in Zaka, Zimbabwe, over a fee hike and alleged maladministration.

School teachers have spoken out about the situation, revealing a deep-seated conflict between the school head and parents.

According to the teachers, the school head agreed to raise fees from $30 to $40 to cover additional costs such as a computer levy, security guard, and school feeding program.

However, parents are unhappy with the lack of transparency regarding the computer levy.

“Parents were furious that she kept unpaid learners in one class all day instead of sending them home,” said one teacher.

“She also allegedly failed to account for the computer levy at the AGM, angering parents.”

The situation escalated when parents threatened the school head with witchcraft over the fee hike. In a leaked audio, a parent is heard ranting, “Today, we couldn’t drink marula brew or work in our fields because of you… Don’t push us to do what we shouldn’t.” “We’re coming, and you’ll answer to our goblins at night or leave,” the parent warned.

The anonymous teachers expressed concerns about the school head’s management style, saying she struggles with diplomacy in a rural setting. “She cites statutes that parents don’t understand,” said one teacher. “She needs to balance legal requirements with community understanding.”

Another teacher revealed that the school head’s approach has strained relations with teachers, who frequently transfer due to her management style. “Teachers are involved in her clashes with parents,” the teacher said. “She runs the school like her personal shop, which frustrates teachers who collude with parents to oust her.”

One parent called for the school head’s transfer, arguing that the situation harms learners. “She should humble herself and convince parents, not impose herself,” the parent said. “If she can’t, she should transfer. Working where parents don’t want you is challenging.”

The school head was unavailable for comment, and the Zaka District Schools Inspector was not immediately available for a response.

Serious Multi-Vehicle Collision on the N1 Between Touws River and Laingsburg, Western Cape

Western Cape, South Africa – 2 May 2025

A serious road accident occurred late this evening on the N1 highway between Touws River and Laingsburg, involving four cars and one truck. Miraculously, there have been no fatalities reported, and emergency services are currently on the scene.

According to visual evidence from the crash site:

• One SUV sustained extensive front-end damage, with the entire engine compartment crushed and metal parts twisted beyond recognition. The rear of the vehicle also shows signs of severe impact.
• A white Mercedes-Benz van veered off the road into a ditch, showing side damage and deep mud tracks, likely indicating a loss of control or evasive action.
• The truck, a large articulated lorry, has visible damage to its cab and front bumper, and is currently off the road with its lights still on. Its position suggests it may have jackknifed or been struck.
• Police vehicles are securing the scene with lights flashing, ensuring that the area remains controlled and that no looting has occurred—a notable concern in past incidents.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, which occurred during nighttime hours under unclear weather conditions. Traffic in the area is being redirected while clean-up and vehicle recovery operations continue.

Motorists are advised to avoid the N1 route between Touws River and Laingsburg until further notice. No reports of looting or secondary incidents have emerged.

By Munacho Gwamanda –The ruling Zanu PF party has conferred national heroine status on Retired Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Winnie Mandeya, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first female Air Vice Marshal to be accorded such an honour in Zimbabwe.

The rank of Air Vice Marshal is equivalent to that of a Major General in the Zimbabwe National Army.

The announcement was delivered by Zanu PF national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, who informed her family on Tuesday evening.

He said the Government was prepared to inter her at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Thursday, May 2, pending the family’s consent.

“The national heroine has been granted the highest recognition, and she will be laid to rest among other distinguished heroes and heroines of our country at the National Heroes Acre,” Machacha said. “If the family is comfortable with that, then Government will begin making the necessary arrangements.”

AVM Mandeya died at the age of 64. 

A liberation war veteran and a trailblazing officer, she joined the struggle for independence on September 29, 1975, undergoing military training at Nachingweya in Tanzania. 

She was later deployed to Gaza Province where she operated until 1978, before being selected to undertake a nursing course.

Following Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, she began her post-war career in the President’s Department, where she contributed to the 1981 Commission of Inquiry into missing persons.

On July 1, 1984, she joined the Air Force of Zimbabwe and rose through the ranks to become one of its most respected officers, eventually attaining the rank of Air Vice Marshal—a position equivalent to Major General in the Zimbabwe National Army—before retiring.

AVM Mandeya’s death comes at a time when the country continues to witness the passing of numerous senior military and intelligence officials—some under circumstances that have sparked widespread speculation.

Since the 2017 military coup that ousted long-time leader Robert Mugabe and elevated Emmerson Mnangagwa to the presidency with the support of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, a string of high-profile deaths has cast a long shadow over the country’s security sector.

Among the most notable was Major General Trust Mugoba, who died in September 2019 shortly after being recalled from the African Union.

His death was followed weeks later by that of Lieutenant General Edzai Chimonyo, commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, who succumbed to cancer in July 2021.

Also on the list and yet to be eliminated is  Lieutenant General Engelbert Rugeje, a key figure in the 2017 coup, who was quietly retired from the army and removed from the Zanu PF politburo, fading from public life before his reported health complications.

Several generals also died within a short span, prompting whispers of a silent purge or targeted neglect of those once central to the post-coup power realignment.

While some of the deaths have been attributed to natural causes such as cancer and COVID-19, critics argue the sheer frequency and political significance of the deceased point to deeper undercurrents of mistrust and rivalry within the military and political elite.

In this tense environment, the conferring of national heroine status on AVM Mandeya is seen not just as a celebration of her contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and post-independence statecraft, but also as part of a broader effort to maintain loyalty within the security establishment.

1 May 2025 – Harare

Anti-corruption activist Comrade Blessed Geza has issued an urgent warning to the public, disowning a fraudulent Twitter account impersonating him and falsely announcing a public address scheduled for this evening.

In a post made just moments ago from his verified handle @BlessedGeza, Geza categorically denied having any scheduled appearance today and clarified that he operates no other social media accounts besides the one currently in use.

“Please ignore this fake account. I don’t have an address today. I don’t have any other channel except this one,” wrote Geza, alongside a screenshot of the impostor account’s post. The fake account, using the handle @blessedrgeza1, falsely announced a YouTube address set for 20:30hrs today, misleading thousands of followers. The post had already garnered over 13,000 views before Geza responded.

This incident comes amid heightened public interest in Geza’s anti-corruption initiatives, which have earned him both national and international attention. His growing influence appears to have made him a target for impersonation and disinformation attempts.

Geza’s team has not yet confirmed whether legal action will be taken, but the activist’s warning has reignited conversations around social media identity theft and online accountability in Zimbabwe’s political and civic discourse.

Citizens are urged to verify information only from Geza’s official channels and to report any suspicious accounts attempting to impersonate public figures.

This is a developing story.

By Tinashe Sambiri

In an embarrassing about-face, Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has publicly retracted a false claim that road construction contractors were already on site for the much-anticipated Victoria Falls project. The Ministry has since admitted that the tender process is still underway and no contractors have been deployed.

The blunder, disseminated via the Ministry’s official Twitter account on April 29 at 9:18 a.m., cited a state media report titled “Victoria Falls contractors on site” — a claim that turned out to be inaccurate. After facing swift backlash, the Ministry issued a formal apology and explanation, attributing the misinformation to a breach of internal protocol.

In its public statement, the Ministry wrote:

“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to unreservedly apologise to members of the public and all its stakeholders for posting a twitter message containing wrong information on 29 April 2025 at 0918 Hours.”

The Ministry explained that the false information had been posted without proper verification from technical officials:

“One of the officers assigned the duty to manage the Ministry’s twitter handle conceded and acknowledged that she breached the internal Standard Operating Procedures of information verification,” the statement read.

Setting the record straight, the Ministry clarified the actual status of the project:

“The tender which was issued on 17 April 2025 closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 Hours. After the closure of the bidding period, an evaluation committee will sit, whereupon the outcome will be sent to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for oversight of the tender process before awarding the same to successful bidders.”

Permanent Secretary Eng. P.J. Makumbe, who signed off on the statement, reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to accurate public communication:

“The Ministry remains committed to the need for sharing correct information to members of the public.”

The incident has reignited criticism of the government’s infrastructure communication strategies, with observers raising concerns about professionalism and transparency within key departments.

By A Correspondent

Tensions are running high at Musenyereki Primary School in Zaka, Zimbabwe, over a fee hike and alleged maladministration.

School teachers have spoken out about the situation, revealing a deep-seated conflict between the school head and parents.

According to the teachers, the school head agreed to raise fees from $30 to $40 to cover additional costs such as a computer levy, security guard, and school feeding program.

However, parents are unhappy with the lack of transparency regarding the computer levy.

“Parents were furious that she kept unpaid learners in one class all day instead of sending them home,” said one teacher.

“She also allegedly failed to account for the computer levy at the AGM, angering parents.”

The situation escalated when parents threatened the school head with witchcraft over the fee hike. In a leaked audio, a parent is heard ranting, “Today, we couldn’t drink marula brew or work in our fields because of you… Don’t push us to do what we shouldn’t.” “We’re coming, and you’ll answer to our goblins at night or leave,” the parent warned.

The anonymous teachers expressed concerns about the school head’s management style, saying she struggles with diplomacy in a rural setting. “She cites statutes that parents don’t understand,” said one teacher. “She needs to balance legal requirements with community understanding.”

Another teacher revealed that the school head’s approach has strained relations with teachers, who frequently transfer due to her management style. “Teachers are involved in her clashes with parents,” the teacher said. “She runs the school like her personal shop, which frustrates teachers who collude with parents to oust her.”

One parent called for the school head’s transfer, arguing that the situation harms learners. “She should humble herself and convince parents, not impose herself,” the parent said. “If she can’t, she should transfer. Working where parents don’t want you is challenging.”

The school head was unavailable for comment, and the Zaka District Schools Inspector was not immediately available for a response.

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Workers’ Day message has been widely criticized as hollow and lacking substance, with observers accusing him of offering platitudes instead of concrete action to address the worsening conditions faced by Zimbabwean workers.

As inflation continues to erode salaries and the cost of living soars, many had expected the president to outline clear policy steps to tackle issues such as low wages, job insecurity, and deteriorating working conditions in both the public and private sectors. Instead, his brief statement made no mention of any tangible plans or interventions by his administration.

Below is the full text of Mnangagwa’s statement, posted on social media:

**”As we commemorate Workers’ Day, let us remain inspired by our national development philosophy #NyikaInovakwaNeveneVayo. Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the welfare, rights, and dignity of workers. With these remarks, it is my pleasure and honour to wish you all — Zimbabweans at home and abroad — a happy Workers’ Day.”

The message, which emphasized patriotism over policy, was met with swift backlash from labour unions and civil society groups. Critics argue it reflects a continued detachment from the daily struggles of workers who face stagnant wages, high unemployment, and a weakened social safety net.

“No mention of salary reviews, pension reforms, or workplace protections — just empty slogans,” said one union leader.

Mnangagwa’s administration has come under increasing pressure to respond to widespread discontent within the workforce, particularly in the health, education, and civil service sectors, where strikes and protests have become common in recent years.

Yet, on a day meant to honour workers, the president’s silence on key labour concerns has only deepened frustration.

By A Correspondent

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has strongly rejected the government-led Workers’ Day celebrations held in Harare, accusing the Public Service Commission (PSC) of staging a symbolic event detached from the daily realities of suffering public sector employees.

In a statement issued on May 1, ARTUZ denounced the PSC-organized event — which took place at Allan Wilson High School in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) — as a tone-deaf spectacle orchestrated to mask the government’s failure to address genuine labour grievances.

Describing the gathering as elitist and insincere, the union said:
“Good to see Employer’s sweetheart Unions and the boss opting for air conditioned boardrooms for May Day commemorations coffee. Celebrating selling out for a whole year should never be taken to crowds. Enjoy the closed door romance.”

The PSC, in its promotional message ahead of the event, had framed the celebration as an inclusive occasion, stating:
“Be part of the May Day Commemorations at Allan Wilson High School in Harare where the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) and its affiliate Labor Unions in partnership with the PSC host public sector workers in Workers Day celebrations on 1 May 2025.”

However, ARTUZ maintained that the event failed to reflect the dire working conditions endured by teachers and other civil servants, particularly in rural areas, where poor pay, lack of resources, and deteriorating infrastructure remain unaddressed.

By distancing itself from what it called a “romanticized” celebration, ARTUZ underscored growing tensions between independent unions and government-aligned labour groups, with the former demanding authentic engagement and action on long-standing issues affecting public sector workers.

By Tinashe Sambiri

Harare – The ruling Zanu PF party has unexpectedly cancelled a key Politburo meeting that had been scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, fueling speculation of internal unrest within the party’s top leadership.

In a brief but notable statement released Thursday, party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa announced the postponement, citing instructions from the party’s Secretary General, Dr. Obert Mpofu.

“The Secretary General of ZANUPF, Cde. Dr. Obert Mpofu hereby advises all members of the postponement of the Politburo meeting announced for Friday 2nd May 2025. The meeting will be held on a later date to be advised,” read the official communication dated May 1, 2025.

While no reason was provided for the postponement, the move comes amid growing political tension and speculation about rifts within Zanu PF’s top echelons. Recent reports have hinted at factional maneuvering, particularly as the country heads into a sensitive period marked by economic instability and public dissatisfaction over governance issues.

Observers say the sudden cancellation may indicate behind-the-scenes negotiations or disagreements over key party decisions, possibly linked to leadership succession debates or ongoing realignments within the Central Committee.

The Politburo, Zanu PF’s highest decision-making body outside of Congress, plays a pivotal role in shaping national and party policy. Its postponement at such a time is likely to fuel further debate about the party’s internal dynamics and direction.

As the nation watches closely, no new date has been set for the rescheduled meeting, leaving party insiders and the public alike in anticipation of what may emerge in the coming weeks.

Would you like a timeline of recent key events in Zanu PF leading up to this?

Tinashe Sambiri

Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government for creating a “living hell” for Zimbabwean workers, citing rampant corruption, low wages, and the collapse of public services.

Chamisa expressed solidarity with Zimbabwean workers on May Day, saying, “Today is Workers’ Day… a moment to thank all the workers who make the wheels of nations turn and the economies of the world tick.”

He highlighted the dire state of employment, noting that many workers are trapped in extreme poverty. “Zimbabwe is a country without work for many. Even for those with jobs, life is unbearable.”

Chamisa described current wage levels as “modern-day slavery,” saying, “Many workers are earning extremely low wages rendering them working poor, basically putting them in the poverty bracket.”

He also pointed out the collapse of the pension system and social protections, stating, “Many workers have lost their pensions and face a difficult retirement future. Zimbabwean workers literally live, work, and retire in poverty.”

Chamisa warned that the crisis is leading to a brain drain, saying, “The level of poverty in the working class has driven many professionals to seek better opportunities outside the country.”

He promised that a future government under his leadership would prioritize workers’ rights and dignity, outlining key reforms such as rebuilding the economy, protecting collective bargaining, and implementing anti-corruption measures.

Chamisa concluded, “This country has sufficient resources and potential to provide decent wages and working conditions for our suffering workers. Workers will be the happiest under the coming new government.”

He ended with a message of hope and unity, saying, “Workers of the world, unite! Salute to you all the workers. Forever and always.”

By Crime and Courts Reporter–Harare Regional Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka has sentenced Avondale Primary School deputy headmistress Roseline Boroma to three years in prison for corruption.

Boroma was convicted after a full trial on charges of unlawfully handpicking a company to supply sports equipment to the school, bypassing the legally required procurement procedures.

Of the three-year sentence, two years will be served effectively, while one year was suspended on condition of good behaviour.

During the trial, Boroma denied the charges, claiming that the selection of the company—Framatic Engineering (Pvt) Ltd—was initiated by the end user department.

However, prosecutor Kudakwashe Muza presented evidence that proved otherwise.

As a government-run institution, Avondale Primary School is classified as a procuring entity under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act. 

According to proper procedure, a requisition for goods or services must be initiated by the user department and submittedto both the Procurement and Finance departments.

Final approval is granted by the accounting officer, in this case, the school headmaster.

Prosecutor Muza told the court that in 2023, the school’s Sports Department required new basketball and netball goalposts.

The Head of Sports Department, Shuvai Stella Zhanje, verbally informed Boroma of the need.

Instead of initiating the formal procurement process, Boroma corruptly handpicked Framatic Engineering (Pvt) Ltd to supply and install the sports equipment without consulting the user department, Procurement Department, or the headmistress.

The company went on to install the equipment—costing US$1,780—on the school grounds, much to the surprise of the Sports Department, which had not raised a formal request.

The irregularities were reported to the headmistress and the School Development Committee, ultimately resulting in a police investigation and Boroma’s arrest.

Tinashe Sambiri

Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government for creating a “living hell” for Zimbabwean workers, citing rampant corruption, low wages, and the collapse of public services.

Chamisa expressed solidarity with Zimbabwean workers on May Day, saying, “Today is Workers’ Day… a moment to thank all the workers who make the wheels of nations turn and the economies of the world tick.”

He highlighted the dire state of employment, noting that many workers are trapped in extreme poverty. “Zimbabwe is a country without work for many. Even for those with jobs, life is unbearable.”

Chamisa described current wage levels as “modern-day slavery,” saying, “Many workers are earning extremely low wages rendering them working poor, basically putting them in the poverty bracket.”

He also pointed out the collapse of the pension system and social protections, stating, “Many workers have lost their pensions and face a difficult retirement future. Zimbabwean workers literally live, work, and retire in poverty.”

Chamisa warned that the crisis is leading to a brain drain, saying, “The level of poverty in the working class has driven many professionals to seek better opportunities outside the country.”

He promised that a future government under his leadership would prioritize workers’ rights and dignity, outlining key reforms such as rebuilding the economy, protecting collective bargaining, and implementing anti-corruption measures.

Chamisa concluded, “This country has sufficient resources and potential to provide decent wages and working conditions for our suffering workers. Workers will be the happiest under the coming new government.”

He ended with a message of hope and unity, saying, “Workers of the world, unite! Salute to you all the workers. Forever and always.”

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Workers’ Day message has been widely criticized as hollow and lacking substance, with observers accusing him of offering platitudes instead of concrete action to address the worsening conditions faced by Zimbabwean workers.

As inflation continues to erode salaries and the cost of living soars, many had expected the president to outline clear policy steps to tackle issues such as low wages, job insecurity, and deteriorating working conditions in both the public and private sectors. Instead, his brief statement made no mention of any tangible plans or interventions by his administration.

Below is the full text of Mnangagwa’s statement, posted on social media:

**”As we commemorate Workers’ Day, let us remain inspired by our national development philosophy #NyikaInovakwaNeveneVayo. Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the welfare, rights, and dignity of workers. With these remarks, it is my pleasure and honour to wish you all — Zimbabweans at home and abroad — a happy Workers’ Day.”

The message, which emphasized patriotism over policy, was met with swift backlash from labour unions and civil society groups. Critics argue it reflects a continued detachment from the daily struggles of workers who face stagnant wages, high unemployment, and a weakened social safety net.

“No mention of salary reviews, pension reforms, or workplace protections — just empty slogans,” said one union leader.

Mnangagwa’s administration has come under increasing pressure to respond to widespread discontent within the workforce, particularly in the health, education, and civil service sectors, where strikes and protests have become common in recent years.

Yet, on a day meant to honour workers, the president’s silence on key labour concerns has only deepened frustration.

By A Correspondent

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has strongly rejected the government-led Workers’ Day celebrations held in Harare, accusing the Public Service Commission (PSC) of staging a symbolic event detached from the daily realities of suffering public sector employees.

In a statement issued on May 1, ARTUZ denounced the PSC-organized event — which took place at Allan Wilson High School in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) — as a tone-deaf spectacle orchestrated to mask the government’s failure to address genuine labour grievances.

Describing the gathering as elitist and insincere, the union said:
“Good to see Employer’s sweetheart Unions and the boss opting for air conditioned boardrooms for May Day commemorations coffee. Celebrating selling out for a whole year should never be taken to crowds. Enjoy the closed door romance.”

The PSC, in its promotional message ahead of the event, had framed the celebration as an inclusive occasion, stating:
“Be part of the May Day Commemorations at Allan Wilson High School in Harare where the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) and its affiliate Labor Unions in partnership with the PSC host public sector workers in Workers Day celebrations on 1 May 2025.”

However, ARTUZ maintained that the event failed to reflect the dire working conditions endured by teachers and other civil servants, particularly in rural areas, where poor pay, lack of resources, and deteriorating infrastructure remain unaddressed.

By distancing itself from what it called a “romanticized” celebration, ARTUZ underscored growing tensions between independent unions and government-aligned labour groups, with the former demanding authentic engagement and action on long-standing issues affecting public sector workers.

By Municipal Reporter–The Transport Ministry has retracted its earlier claim that all companies contracted to rehabilitate the dilapidated Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road are currently on site.

On Tuesday, 29 April 2025, the Ministry announced via its official X (formerly Twitter) account that government efforts to upgrade the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road were progressing, with rehabilitation works expected to commence in May. The post further stated that eight contractors involved in the project were already deployed.

However, it subsequently emerged that the tender process for the project had only closed on the same date—29 April 2025—indicating that some companies were still in the process of submitting their bids at the time the Ministry claimed contractors had already been selected and mobilised.

In a statement issued later on Tuesday, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Mr. P.J. Makumbe, clarified that no contractors are currently on site, as the tender process is still ongoing.

Makumbe further acknowledged that an officer assigned to manage the Ministry’s social media platforms had posted the inaccurate information without first verifying it with technical officials from the Department of Roads, thereby breaching the Ministry’s Standard Operating Procedures for information verification.

Click here: Pindula WhatsApp Channel
wa.me/channel/0029Vb4GVea90x2nCSDImS1b

He explained that the tender, which was issued on 17 April 2025, officially closed on 29 April 2025 at 11 AM. 

Following the close of the bidding period, an evaluation committee is expected to assess the submissions. 

He added that the results will then be submitted to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for final review and approval before contracts are awarded to successful bidders. Part of the statement reads:

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to unreservedly apologise to members of the public and all its stakeholders for posting a Twitter message containing wrong information on 29 April 2025 at 0918 Hours. 

The Twitter message tagged a story published on 28 April 2025 by the Herald Online, which was headlined: “Victoria Falls contractors on site.” 

The Ministry acknowledges that no contractor is on site, as the tender process is still ongoing.

One of the officers assigned the duty to manage the Ministry’s twitter handle conceded and acknowledged that she breached the internal Standard Operating Procedures of information verification, by not verifying the authenticity of the facts with the technical officials in the Department of Roads, before posting.

The Ministry wishes to set the record straight on the matter as follows: the tender which was issued on 17 April 2025 closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 Hours. 

After the closure of the bidding period, an evaluation committee will sit, whereupon the outcome will be sent to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for oversight of the tender process before awarding the same to successful bidders.

By A Correspondent

A South African citizen working in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, was urgently airlifted back home after falling seriously ill and reportedly being unable to access adequate medical care in Zimbabwe.

The patient was transported by road over a 280-kilometre stretch from Bulawayo to Beitbridge before being flown by helicopter to Limpopo province in South Africa.

The Limpopo Provincial Government confirmed the incident on Monday through a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account. The emergency evacuation underscores the ongoing strain placed on South Africa’s healthcare system by cross-border medical cases.

Upon landing in Limpopo, the unnamed patient was received by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego.

Photos released by provincial authorities show the patient on a stretcher, flanked by the two officials at the helicopter landing site.

“The patient could not receive the necessary medical treatment when he fell ill in Bulawayo,” the Limpopo Government said in the official statement.

The case has reignited longstanding tensions over the burden placed on South Africa’s public hospitals by patients from neighbouring Zimbabwe. The issue continues to stir both political and public debate, as South African facilities grapple with increased demand from foreign nationals seeking medical care.

Recently, a Zimbabwean woman was chased away from Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria West by a group of South African women accusing her of straining the healthcare system. A video of the incident, which quickly went viral, shows the women shouting at the expectant mother and demanding that she return to Zimbabwe for treatment.

The confrontation sparked a public outcry and reignited discourse on xenophobia and healthcare access. The women involved claimed that Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration fails to compensate South Africa for the healthcare services utilized by Zimbabwean nationals.

This is not the first time healthcare pressures between the two countries have made headlines. In August 2022, then-Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba drew international criticism after a video showed her confronting a Zimbabwean patient at Bela Bela Hospital. In the clip, Ramathuba told the patient, “You are killing my health system. It’s not my responsibility to care for patients from Zimbabwe.”

Ramathuba later defended her remarks, stating that the increasing number of patients from neighbouring countries puts “unsustainable pressure” on the provincial healthcare system and budgets.

The latest incident adds another chapter to the complex and emotionally charged issue of regional health migration, with calls growing louder for bilateral solutions between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

By A Correspondent

The City of Harare has called on Mbare residents to cooperate with City Health officials conducting a bedbug (tsikidzi) fumigation campaign, warning that continued resistance could lead to police-assisted access and potential eviction.

In a public health drive launched on 7 April 2025, the City Council targeted 5,450 rooms in the densely populated Mbare Flats for fumigation. As of last week, 64% of the units had been treated, but city authorities reported mounting resistance from some residents unwilling to grant access to their homes.

“We have noted with concern reports that some occupiers of Mbare flats are refusing to open their doors to City Health workers who want to fumigate their premises against bedbugs (tsikidzi),” the city said in a statement on Tuesday.

Officials further warned that continued non-compliance could have serious consequences. “We encourage the residents to allow health workers immediate access to the premises or risk enforcement using police. This will also mean cancelling the current leases since the apartments are owned by the City of Harare.”

“Residents’ health is of utmost importance and the City of Harare will use every available means to gain access for fumigation purposes to protect every resident in Harare,” the statement added.

As the tsikidzi infestation continues to spread, the matter has drawn national attention—not just because of the public health threat, but due to the controversial involvement of top government spokesperson George Charamba.

Instead of focusing on the core health issue, Charamba—Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications—took to X (formerly Twitter) under his handle Jamwanda, appearing to redirect the conversation by linking the fumigation resistance to alleged criminal activity.

“TSIKIDZI BLUES: Just to allay your fears, that vermin will be dealt with decisively soonest. Including those selling bad substances who have been refusing to open their homes to allow for a complete operation. Brace up!!!!” Charamba posted.

His remarks have drawn criticism from some quarters, with observers accusing him of attempting to shift attention away from the serious public health concerns by insinuating that those resisting fumigation are engaged in illegal dealings. Critics argue that conflating tsikidzi control with law enforcement undermines the urgency of addressing the infestation and may further erode trust between residents and authorities.

While the government spokesperson’s comments may have been aimed at encouraging compliance, they have instead highlighted deeper tensions between the state and marginalized communities, raising questions about how seriously the administration is treating the core health crisis.

The City of Harare, meanwhile, maintains that the fumigation operation will proceed—voluntarily or through enforcement—as tsikidzi continue to pose a growing threat to residents’ health.

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Once a gleaming, high-performance Ford Ranger double cab fresh off the lot, the vehicle now lies reduced to a charred and skeletal frame — a grim monument to a cross-border criminal operation gone disastrously wrong. The bodywork is twisted and hollowed out by fire, the dashboard and interior scorched beyond recognition, and the chassis eaten away by heat and decay under a lonely tree in Beitbridge. Where once the powerful pickup might have purred across South African roads, it now sits abandoned, its fate sealed by greed and desperation.

The smugglers — Bester Moyo, Admit Moyo, Freddy Mugabe, and an accomplice still on the run — once believed themselves untouchable as they quietly ferried the stolen Ranger from Boksburg across the Limpopo River under the cover of darkness. Stripped of its accessories and hidden in the bush, the vehicle was methodically dismembered, its parts loaded onto donkey carts and sold piecemeal across Beitbridge. But the syndicate’s luck ran dry.

Beitbridge police, acting on intelligence, arrested the trio on Independence Day while they were attempting to offload the vehicle’s gearbox. According to Chief Superintendent Melusi Ncube, the suspects are now facing charges of motor vehicle theft and appeared in the regional court. Each was granted USD150 bail and will reappear before Magistrate Charity Maphosa on May 8.

The case highlights a broader crisis: a sharp rise in cross-border vehicle smuggling operations, many linked to insurance fraud rings in South Africa. Stolen rental cars are trafficked into Zimbabwe, dismantled, and sold for parts — while fraudulent owners cash in on insurance payouts.

But with intensified patrols and increasing arrests along the Limpopo, authorities warn that the river is no longer the silent accomplice it once was. The burned-out Ranger, now a shell of its former self, is proof that the trail of crime may be long — but justice is catching up.

Harare, Zimbabwe – 1 May 2025

By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has issued an unreserved public apology after publishing incorrect information on its Twitter account, falsely suggesting that a contractor had already been assigned for the high-profile Victoria Falls road project. The erroneous tweet, posted on 29 April 2025 at 0918 hours, quoted a Herald article which implied work had begun — a claim now confirmed as inaccurate.

In a rare show of transparency, the Ministry retracted the statement the same day and clarified that no contractor is currently on site, as the tender process remains ongoing. According to the retraction notice, a Ministry officer responsible for managing the Twitter handle breached internal verification procedures and posted the tweet without cross-checking facts with officials from the Department of Roads.

The statement, signed by Permanent Secretary Eng. P.J. Makumbe, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to correct information and revealed that the tender had only closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 hours. The next step involves evaluation by a committee and oversight by the Special Procurement Oversight Committee.

While some members of the public applauded the honesty, others were far more skeptical. Former Harare Mayor Ben Manyenyeni lauded the Ministry’s candor in a widely shared Facebook post:

“I can be proud of such honesty. This is twenty times better than the silence, lies and propaganda we are always fed. I can live with this sort of sincere approach to issues. Trust restored.”

However, the reactions in the comments painted a much more divided picture:

• Ethan Malibongwe Moyo responded cynically, referencing a previous false claim:
  “October last year they told us Bitumen has been given tender and is now raising funds. I will never trust these goons even with a tooth pick!”
• Tonie Vimbai added in Shona:
  “Apa vamwe tattoo pa site nemichina yedu, or maybe not, we just don’t know.”
  (Translation: “Some people were already seen on-site with machinery — or maybe not, we’re just not sure anymore.”)
• Tapiwa Zivira dismissed the statement as spin:
  “Not necessarily honesty. Damage control, and I suspect, more lies. I also worry so much about the staff member who is being the sacrificial lamb. Can’t trust.”
• Vatete Yeu expressed confusion at the praise:
  “You are proud of what? Tender process is still going on. They are writing as if they’re doing us a favour.”
• Kennedy Masiye hinted at deeper concerns:
  “Some sought of cover up for flouting tender procedures! I am sure more will come out.”

The backlash indicates a trust deficit that even a transparent correction may not easily fix. As the dust settles, observers are keenly watching whether the Ministry will follow through with cleaner processes and more proactive communication in future infrastructure projects.

– END –

The theft of fuel from fire brigade or ambulance service departments is not only plausible—it is a documented and recurring form of corruption globally. A Bulawayo case, in which an official allegedly siphoned 20,000 litres of diesel over three years, reveals how systemic loopholes, weak oversight, and internal protection can enable such crimes. Here’s a brief analysis:

How Easy Is It to Steal Fuel from a Fire Service?

1. Weak Logbook Oversight: If mileage isn’t tracked electronically or the odometer is broken (as in the Bulawayo case), it’s easy to hide extra refueling trips.
2. Internal Collusion: Fuel theft often requires more than one person, such as store clerks, supervisors, or fuel station staff to falsify records.
3. Vehicle Misuse: Using emergency vehicles for personal errands or unofficial purposes can mask excessive fuel consumption.
4. Inadequate Auditing: Periodic or absent audits allow theft to go unnoticed for years.

Plausibility

Highly plausible. Emergency services operate with public trust and urgency, which can be manipulated under the cover of essential service. Fuel allocation is usually based on expected mileage, which is easy to inflate or fake, especially if digital monitoring systems are absent.

Documented Historical Cases

Here are five notable cases globally where fuel theft in emergency or municipal services was exposed:

1. South Africa (2018) – In Durban, municipal workers were arrested for siphoning thousands of litres of diesel from city-owned vehicles. They operated a syndicate involving city ambulances and refuse trucks.
2. Mexico (2019) – Widespread “huachicolero” operations involved siphoning fuel from state-owned Pemex, including stolen supplies intended for municipal vehicles, including fire engines.
3. Russia (2020) – A fire station commander in Rostov-on-Don was arrested for illegally selling fuel intended for fire trucks, using manipulated fuel logs and fake mileage reports.
4. India (2022) – In Bihar, several government vehicles including fire brigade trucks were reported to be part of a fuel theft scam where drivers sold subsidized diesel on the black market.
5. Nigeria (2021) – In Lagos, emergency and municipal vehicle fuel allocations were fraudulently diverted to black market sales, with some implicated staff from fire services.

The Bulawayo case fits a broader pattern seen in many developing and transitional economies where institutional oversight is weak. The use of broken meters, inflated fuel claims, and opaque accountability frameworks creates a conducive environment for such thefts. These cases underscore the need for digitized tracking, transparent audits, and whistleblower protections in public service departments.

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Bulawayo – A massive corruption scandal has rocked the Bulawayo City Council’s Fire and Ambulance Services Department as the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) confirms it has launched an investigation into the alleged theft of over 20,000 litres of diesel—fuel meant for life-saving emergency response vehicles.

At the centre of the investigation is a senior manager in the Ambulance Services division who allegedly exploited a broken speedometer in a designated Command Vehicle—a Toyota Land Cruiser—to siphon fuel over a three-year period. Sources close to the case revealed the vehicle was routinely double-filled without mileage being logged, with fuel later decanted and sold to illegal dealers in Nketa Six suburb.

According to whistleblowers within the council, the manager filled the vehicle with up to 200 litres per week, far exceeding the consumption needs of a vehicle averaging only 40km per day. In stark contrast, fully operational ambulances covering over 300km weekly received less fuel. The discrepancy, insiders allege, was long known within internal circles but never addressed—raising suspicions of protection from high-ranking officials.

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart, responding via X (formerly Twitter), pledged transparency, stating that the internal audit findings would be made public.

The scandal, while shocking, is far from isolated.

Experts note that fuel theft in emergency and municipal services is a recurring form of corruption across the globe. In South Africa, a similar scam in Durban saw city ambulance drivers arrested for siphoning thousands of litres of diesel. In Russia, a fire station commander manipulated fuel logs to resell fuel. From India to Nigeria and Mexico, fuel theft schemes—often involving collusion, falsified records, and broken oversight mechanisms—have siphoned millions of dollars from the public purse.

“Fuel theft from fire or ambulance departments is disturbingly plausible,” said a corruption researcher. “When logbooks are manually kept and internal audits are weak, it creates the perfect storm for long-term siphoning.”

The Bulawayo case has also revealed disturbing operational implications: only 7 of the city’s 30 ambulances remain functional amid reported fuel shortages and breakdowns, while the Command Vehicle implicated in the scam continued to consume a disproportionate share of resources.

ZACC spokesperson Simiso Mlevu confirmed the commission is awaiting the outcome of the council’s internal audit. Meanwhile, the implicated manager remains in service.

As investigations proceed, the scandal raises urgent questions about governance, accountability, and the state of emergency services in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city.- ZimEye

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Barely 5 months after demanding that Botswana citizens must buy him a brand new car, Prophet Andrew Wutaunashe, who is Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s kingmaker, has revealed he has been deserted by large crowds of followers in Botswana — a stunning fallout following a scandal over his demands for a brand-new car from his congregation last Christmas.

Wutaunashe made the announcement during an emotional sermon on Sunday, April 27, 2025- in Francistown, admitting that not only had ordinary church members left him, but also Archbishop Kuleletse, the leading bishop of his Botswana church, had formally cut ties.
In a lengthy and prayer-laden address, Wutaunashe tried to console his remaining flock:

“Archbishop Kuleletse felt that he should leave us,” Wutaunashe said. “I personally thought that he shouldn’t, but he said that he felt that is what God wants him to do… but we might just pray for him; keep on loving him.”
The dramatic collapse in support follows a major exposé by the ZimEye news network, which revealed how Wutaunashe had demanded a brand-new vehicle from his poor Botswana congregation — to be delivered within four months — at a time when he was also condemning Western nations for supposedly lacking compassion for the needy.

In his Christmas sermon last December, Wutaunashe had declared his expectation:
“I know all the bishops love me… so at Easter camp next year, the bishops will give me a car… I won’t tell them what type, otherwise they will be in shock.”

The ZimEye exposé triggered widespread anger, particularly among Botswana citizens, who felt betrayed by a leader they once trusted. Members accused him of exploiting their loyalty while living lavishly at their expense.

Andrew Wutaunashe speaking at the weekend
A Church in Crisis
In his Sunday sermon, Wutaunashe tried to frame the mass desertions as part of a divine process:
“Don’t worry about sons who go away; they will always come back… even Jesus went away from his Father but came back.”
Despite the hopeful rhetoric, the departure of Archbishop Kuleletse is seen as a massive blow to Wutaunashe’s operations in Botswana, a country that was once a stronghold for his regional influence.
The preacher, visibly shaken, launched into a prayer asking for blessings on Kuleletse’s new path and encouraged his remaining followers to rebuild the Francistown church “to a greater later glory.”

Wutaunashe also took the opportunity to pray for the Zimbabwean government, notably for Emmerson Mnangagwa, urging divine intervention to “bring to completion” what he called Mnangagwa’s “work of peace and progress.”
Meanwhile:
Latest revelations suggest that at the time of writing another compounding scandal involving a still to be named son of a bishop who was at the time ofthe desertion having an affair with the wife of another senior church leader.

Looking Ahead
As Wutaunashe struggles to rebuild in Francistown, questions remain about his broader credibility across Southern Africa, especially amid rising scrutiny of self-styled prophets and their financial dealings. Whether he can recover from this scandal remains to be seen.

Tinashe Sambiri

ZANU PF is set to convene a Politburo meeting on Friday, May 2, 2025, as internal party conflicts continue to intensify behind the scenes.

The announcement was made by the party’s Secretary for Information and Publicity, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa, who relayed the notice from Secretary-General Dr. Obert Mpofu.

“The secretary-general of ZANU PF Dr. Obert Mpofu hereby advises all Politburo members that there will be a Politburo meeting on Friday, 2 May 2025 at 1000hrs. The meeting will be held at the permanent home of the revolution, ZANU PF headquarters,” Mutsvangwa stated.

Members are expected to be seated by 9:45 AM. While the official agenda is to address general party business, the meeting comes at a time when factional divisions within the ruling party are reportedly growing.