MDC-T activist Patson Murimoga is lobbying party members to demonstrate against their leader Douglas Mwonzora on Thursday this week to compel him to account for over $6 million which he allegedly stole from party coffers.

Murimoga, formerly Mwonzora’s close ally, told NewsDay that the demonstration would be held on Thursday at Parliament Building to petition the Senate to intervene on the matter.

He is accusing the MDC-T leader and Manicaland senator of conniving with the party’s finance director, Toddy Mapingire, to loot the money, which he allegedly used to buy foreign currency on the parallel market.

Last week, Murimoga lodged a complaint with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) and urged it to investigate why police had not yet arrested Mwonzora for the theft of the $6 million despite overwhelming evidence against him.

He said he had already notified the police about the demonstration, but was still awaiting clearance.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said: “I am not privy to issues happening in town, I am currently out of Harare.”

Murimoga said the MDC-T had always claimed it was anti-corruption and pro-democracy, hence the need to uphold those values.

“That is why on April 22, 2021, we are lobbying for party members to participate in the demonstration to demand our money back from Mwonzora. We demand the arrest of Mwonzora for money-laundering and theft,” he said.

“I have no personal grudges with Mwonzora. For a very long time, he was my closest ally. But I am a pro-democracy campaigner. Democracy has no sides. As the MDC-T party, we believe that we are a government-in-waiting. Therefore, if leadership fails to account for a paltry $6 million, what then of the other national treasures? How then can the party be entrusted with national governance when it is failing to manage its own internal accounting systems?”

Murimoga said the disappearance of the $6 million had left the party broke, adding that it was failing to settle its debts as well as pay its employees.

He said the party had not yet paid for the Zupco buses hired to ferry party members to an extraordinary congress held in December last year, which endorsed Mwonzora as the party president.

“Employees have gone for months without getting salaries. I, for instance, am a driver, but I have not yet gotten my salary for some months and that is the situation with the majority of the party employees,” Murimoga said.

He said Mwonzora demonstrated against Zanu PF over the disappearance of the US$15 billion diamond revenue, hence the need for him to be consistent on issues of accountability and transparency.

But Mwonzora’s spokesperson Lloyd Damba said the demonstration “sponsored by losers” would be a flop.

“This is not the first time we have heard of these demonstrations on social media and we do not expect them to be the last,” he said.

“Mwonzora is not fazed at all about these nonsensical sideshows which are being sponsored by malcontents and extraordinary congress losers. The president is concentrating on rebuilding and rebranding the party. The ordinary congress will settle the leadership question once-and-for-all and flush anti-revolutionaries out of the cockpit.”

On the issue of party debts, Damba said Murimoga could not comment on party finances since he did not work in the accounts department.

-Newsday

More than 200,000 Zimbabweans have returned home over the past year due to the economic fallout from COVID-19 in countries where they had been working. 

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is providing nurses to help Zimbabwean officials conduct COVID-19 tests. Other services include critical risk communications and disease surveillance activities, infection prevention and control, protection, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Reintegration Assistance. 

IOM Zimbabwe Chief of Mission Mario Lito Malanca noted the number of returns exceeded expectations, highlighting the massive socio-economic impact the virus has had across the regions requiring a refocus on long-term solutions. 

“Without these measures, we will see many returnees falling deeper into crisis, resorting to negative coping mechanisms, and possibly being forced to migrate once again through irregular means,” he said. 

More than 1.9 million people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Southern Africa since March 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), and over 60,000 lives were lost. Worst hit were the three main destination countries for Zimbabwean migrant workers: South Africa, Malawi and Botswana. 

An IOM survey of the returnees found that, in most cases, the decision to return was linked to the impacts of the pandemic, including financial challenges, hunger and loss of accommodation, lack of access to medical assistance, mental health support, identity document issues and the risk of assault in the country where they were working.   

The survey also found that the returnees have professional skills ranging from construction to trading, agriculture, catering, painting, and domestic work.   

The Zimbabwean Government’s guidelines require returnees to have valid COVID-19 certificates prior to entering the country. Without a valid test certificate, they are sent to provincial quarantine centres in Beitbridge, Plumtree and Chirundu to await testing. 

With support from IOM and its Development Fund (IDF), the Government of Zimbabwe is engaging with its neighbours toward bilateral agreements to tackle the push factors of the returns, while setting up internal mechanisms of socio-economic reintegration through employment assistance projects. 

On Thursday 22 April, IOM and the Zimbabwean Embassy in South Africa are organising a virtual webinar on Zimbabwe Diaspora engagement for development. The objective is to initiate a sustained dialogue between the Government of Zimbabwe and its Diaspora on development-related issues. Registration can be completed here. 

IOM Zimbabwe’s recently launched USD 38.9 million Crisis Response Plan 2021 aims to strengthen COVID-19 preparedness and response capacities well into 2021 and to promote socio-economic reintegration through self-employment, community income projects and livelihood activities targeting 1.7 million people. 

-IOM

Zimbabweans have paid tribute to the late Dr Roland Russell Stephens, who was instrumental in developing Karanda Mission hospital in Mt Darwin into a health facility of repute.

Although he died thousands of kilometres away at his Springfield Ohio home in the United States of America, Dr Stephens, who was 91, left an indelible mark in Zimbabwe and Mount Darwin in particular.

Dr. Stephens first came to Karanda, then Gunderson-Horness Mission Hospital in 1962 and played an instrumental role in addressing the widespread health challenges in the remote area of Mt Darwin by establishing a centre of health care excellence where people now converge from the four corners of Zimbabwe.

“Firstly I want to express my condolences on the death of Dr. Stephens, I am one of the people who was helped by Dr Stephens in a great way.

“I went to Karanda when I was sick to an extent I was supposed to get an operation, but because of Dr. Stephen when I got to Karanda I was received well and got a lot of help. Because of him I didn’t even get an operation. I was treated and got healed so I feel a lot of pain,” a resident of Karanda said.

Another said, “At Karanda I met Dr. Stephens. He wanted to see my leg which was grinding and he didn’t shun or discriminate and I don’t think he ever mishandled anyone.

“He used to touch wounds and he didn’t even care about looking for gloves or anything. He was a good-hearted person and hearing about his demise, it’s a great loss. Yes, he was a white man, but he was kind.”

Evangelical Church of Zimbabwe Bishop, Benson Magojo worked with Dr. Stephens for about 10 years and had a first-hand experience of how he assisted the local community even when hospitals were closed down during the liberation struggle.

“Dr. Stephens had a heart for people, he didn’t discriminate and he had a heart for people. He didn’t look at the time when he got work so that when he was helping a person with healing or spiritually, he would help,” said Bishop Magojo.

He added, “Even during the liberation struggle he said as long as I’m not intimidated, I will continue to help people. He eventually had to close the hospital because of government regulations and Karanda was the last hospital to close.

“He was more than a missionary, you’d see godliness in him so when we heard of his death we were really disturbed. He died as a Christian and I want to think he is home with His Father and Our God. So, we appreciate him as a community. I appreciate him as a church. I appreciate that we a learnt a lot from him. For the community of Karanda, Dotitio area is really a loss.  We will miss him greatly.”

Karanda Mission Hospital was established in 1961 to address the needs of mission stations in the Zambezi River Valley which were established as churches and then small dispensaries into clinics.

Dr Stephens’ death comes after President Mnagangwa commissioned a multi-million-dollar bridge linking various communities to Karanda Mission, validating the importance of the hospital in the country’s health care system.

-State Media

By A Correspondent- A Buhera traditional healer (sangoma) has been arrested for providing shelter to a robber wanted in connection with a US$2,7 million heist.

The sangoma, Shadreck Tadira (58), his wife Margaret Mutaka (49) of Chief Nyashanu, and two accomplices Vongai Majoko (42) and Nyarai Murapa (43) yesterday appeared separately before Harare magistrates Judith Taruvinga and Dennis Mangosi.

The four were granted $5 000 bail each and the matter was remanded to May 5.

Allegations were that in January this year, police were on a manhunt for Patrick Matengambiri, who had committed a US$2,7 million robbery.

Detectives went to look for him at the accused persons’ residence, where he was hiding, only to discover that he had escaped.

The money had been hidden in the garden and in February this year, Matengambiri asked Mutaka to dig it out and give it to his wife, Ester Mutesvu, who gave the accused persons US$1 600 as a token of appreciation for giving her husband refuge.

It is alleged that Matengambiri, who is still at large, gave Murapa and Majoro US$65 000 which they used to buy him a house in Aspindale, Harare.

The duo also bought a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, which they registered in the name of Majoko.

They were arrested in Avondale, Harare, in a high-speed chase by the police.

Murapa and Majoro were represented by Tungamirai Chakurira.

-newsday

Discord in the MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa in Mashonaland East province has increased following the suspension of a top district official last week.

Maidei Mahomadi, Marondera district women’s wing chairperson, was suspended for allegedly disrespecting the wing’s national chairperson Muchirairwa Mugidho at a meeting held in rural Seke recently.

The suspension of Mahomadi has resulted in divisions within the MDC Alliance party with her sympathisers refusing to accept the verdict which led to her suspension.

According to a letter dated April 8 and signed by the party provincial chairwoman Epiphania Munhunepi, seen by NewsDay, Mahomadi is expected to appear before a disciplinary committee.

“I am writing to inform you about your actions during the Mashonaland East women’s assembly provincial council meeting held in Seke district where you and acting secretary Mrs Tagwireyi, pointed fingers and verbally abused the national chairlady and violated the party’s constitution and code of conduct.

“In particular, you committed the following (1) obstructing members or employees of the party from performing lawful functions, (2) conduct likely to provoke serious divisions or a breakdown of unity within the party,” read the letter.

Mahomadi has since been barred from attending MDC Alliance meetings.

“I am here exercising my powers in terms of the MDC Alliance constitution annexure C, articles 3, 4 and 5 suspending you from the position of chairlady pending disciplinary committee hearing in accordance with the constitution. Please note that during this period you will not be allowed to attend district meetings, this suspension is with immediate effect,” Munhunepi added.

Mahomadi said she was yet to get her suspension letter, adding that she only saw it on social media.

“I have not been suspended. I saw the letter on social media, but I am yet to get it. On Saturday, I even chaired a meeting. It shows that I am still in charge,” she said.

-Newsday

Mine workers who were exposed to harmful substances and ended up contracting Silicosis or Tuberculosis at South African gold mines are set to receive compensation ranging from R10 000 to R500 000.

This development comes after the High Court in Johannesburg approved the settlement in the Silicosis and Tuberculosis class action reached on 26 July 2019 and came into effect on 10 December 2019 after all conditions had been fulfilled.

Dependants of mineworkers who have since passed away, a wife, children or life partner, will receive the payments.

In a statement yesterday, the Tshiamo Trust which was established to carry out the terms of the settlement said all eligible miners should come forward with their details.

Eligible claimants who were gold mineworkers between March 12, 1965 and December 10, 2019 will be compensated.

“The Tshiamiso Trust has been established to carry out the terms of the settlement and to pay monetary compensation to eligible claimants. An eligible claimant will be entitled to receive a once-off payment of between R10 000 and R250 000, depending on the nature and seriousness of the disease and harm suffered by such claimant,” read the statement.

“In some severe cases, an eligible claimant may be able to receive a larger amount of up to R500 000.”

An eligible claimant according to Tshimiso Trust is a person who is a member of companies who meets the requirements of the trust to receive monetary compensation.

“All class members can and are invited to submit a claim to the Tshiamiso Trust for monetary compensation, except for class members who opted out of the settlement. Details of how to submit a claim are provided on the trust’s website.

The full terms of the Settlement Agreement as well as the Court’s decision approving the Settlement Agreement is available on the same website,” read the same statement.

It said the eligible are persons who undertook work that exposed them to silica dust and contracted Silicosis or Tuberculosis.

“Dependants for example the wife, child or life partner of such a gold mine worker who passed away may also apply for compensation.

Claimants who live in South Africa can call the Trust’s toll-free call centre number to make an appointment at their closest lodgement office in South Africa. Those who live outside of South Africa can call the Trust’s call back number to make an appointment at a lodgement office in their country,” it said.

-State Media

Teachers’ representatives yesterday described government as a heartless employer and vowed that their members would not be coerced to teach, despite threats to withhold their benefits.

Primary and Secondary Education minister Cain Mathema on Monday told State media that government was invoking the no-work, no-pay principle for teachers who have not been reporting for duty since the beginning of this term.

Since last year, some teachers have not been reporting for duty, or were availing themselves at schools without conducting lessons in protest over poor wages.

“We are summoning the principle of no-work, no-salary with immediate effect. Teachers who do not report for duty or those who go to their schools and not do their work will not be paid.  We have requested school heads to compile lists of such names and we will forward them to the Public Service Commission so that those not doing their work will not be paid,” Mathema said.

Mathema has also threatened punitive measures against educators who conduct private lessons.

But teachers’ unions said they were unfazed by government’s threats and would continue with their strike demanding salaries between US$520 and US$550 or the equivalent in local currency.

Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Raymond Majongwe described government as “a bully” which was not committed to collective bargaining processes.

“The government should not bully its employees. Threats and bullying should not be used as a bargaining tactic. Government should resort to dialogue with the concerned parties if it wants to save the education sector,” he said.

Zimbabwe National Teachers Union (Zinatu) chief executive officer Manuel Nyawo said although government could threaten them to report for duty, it was impossible to force teachers to conduct lessons.

“Our members are in a dilemma. On one hand, they have to decisively deal with the issue of incapacitation while on the other, they have to deal with the decision of a heartless employer. Given this position, government should bear in mind that one can force a donkey to the river, but cannot force it to drink water,” he said.

“The ministry can force us to report for duty, but they cannot force us to teach. As Zinatu, we will encourage our members to report for duty, but the ministry must be rest assured that no learning is going to take place until our demands are met.”

Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said government’s bullying tactics was destroying the education sector.

“As the minister, Mathema should be focusing on profiling the incapacitation narrative of teachers to Treasury by lobbying for a salary raise,” he said.

“Unfortunately, he is determined to destroy the sector which he should be defending. Incapacitated teachers will never be coerced to attend for duty. Teachers are patiently waiting for the day they will be capacitated.”

Former Primary and Secondary Education minister David Coltart also blasted government for failing to resolve its salary stalemate with civil servants and for using threats instead of engaging them.

“If I was the Minister of Education today, I was not going to be issuing threats against them because teachers are suffering and they are not being paid a viable wage, that is the starting point. I suspect that the salary stalemate with teachers is one of the reasons why the June examinations were suspended because schools are not functioning,’’ Coltart said.

-Newsday

A TSHOLOTSHO man is battling for life in hospital with a deep cut on the back of the head after a neighbour allegedly pummeled him with a golf stick in a fight.

The complainant Mr Intelligence Sibanda of Shakiwa Line in Sipepa confronted Mayenziwe Sibanda who is on the run, questioning him why he once slapped him and the two started fighting.

Mayenziwe of the same area allegedly picked up a golf stick and hit Mr Sibanda repeatedly all over the body resulting in the complainant fainting.

Acting Matabeleland North police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Namatirai Mashona confirmed the incident.

She said the suspect faces attempted murder charges.

She urged members of the public not to resort to violence under any circumstances.

“I can confirm that we received a case or attempted murder which occurred in Sipepa where a man was assaulted with a golf stick all over the body and fell unconscious during a fight. We are appealing to members of the public to solve their differences amicably and desist from using violence,” she said.

Assist Inspector Mashona said the attack took place at Mcetshwa business centre on Wednesday last week.

Mr Sibanda who is still admitted to Tsholotsho District Hospital was in the company of his neighbour Mr Nkosiyazi Ncube (37) of Mcetshwa line under Chief Mathupula when the fight took place.

He approached the suspect asking him why he once slapped him and the latter became angry hence the two started fighting.

The assailant allegedly hit Mr Sibanda with a golf stick all over the body resulting in him falling down unconscious with a deep cut on the back of the head.

The suspect fled from the scene leaving his victim unconscious.

Mr Bongani Sibanda, who is brother to the complainant heard that his brother had been attacked and reported the matter to the police who attended the scene and rushed the victim to Sipepa Clinic.-Chronicle

A TSHOLOTSHO man is battling for life in hospital with a deep cut on the back of the head after a neighbour allegedly pummeled him with a golf stick in a fight.

The complainant Mr Intelligence Sibanda of Shakiwa Line in Sipepa confronted Mayenziwe Sibanda who is on the run, questioning him why he once slapped him and the two started fighting.

Mayenziwe of the same area allegedly picked up a golf stick and hit Mr Sibanda repeatedly all over the body resulting in the complainant fainting.

Acting Matabeleland North police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Namatirai Mashona confirmed the incident.

She said the suspect faces attempted murder charges.

She urged members of the public not to resort to violence under any circumstances.

“I can confirm that we received a case or attempted murder which occurred in Sipepa where a man was assaulted with a golf stick all over the body and fell unconscious during a fight. We are appealing to members of the public to solve their differences amicably and desist from using violence,” she said.

Assist Inspector Mashona said the attack took place at Mcetshwa business centre on Wednesday last week.

Mr Sibanda who is still admitted to Tsholotsho District Hospital was in the company of his neighbour Mr Nkosiyazi Ncube (37) of Mcetshwa line under Chief Mathupula when the fight took place.

He approached the suspect asking him why he once slapped him and the latter became angry hence the two started fighting.

The assailant allegedly hit Mr Sibanda with a golf stick all over the body resulting in him falling down unconscious with a deep cut on the back of the head.

The suspect fled from the scene leaving his victim unconscious.

Mr Bongani Sibanda, who is brother to the complainant heard that his brother had been attacked and reported the matter to the police who attended the scene and rushed the victim to Sipepa Clinic.-Chronicle

MDC Alliance president Nelson Chamisa has refuted claims that he is a problem child in Zimbabwe’s body politic, saying he is young but not a baby.

Chamisa was responding to Mnangagwa’s Independence eve interview broadcast by the State media on Saturday, where the latter urged opposition political leaders to cut their ties with the United States for him to recognise them as proper Zimbabweans.

Chamisa asserted that he has always been open to dialogue with Mnangagwa but not under the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD). Said Chamisa:

Let us build bridges in Zimbabwe and my message to ED is, stop burning bridges, stop being destructive, stop dividing the country, stop hate language and hatred. Don’t be vindictive, don’t be a victim of ageism. We are young but not babies.

… We have always invited him to smoke the peace pipe, but he is carrying a machete and sjamboks and that is the problem. He thinks every problem is a nail that needs a hammer. Violence has no winner and one thing about violence is that no one has a monopoly (over it).

He mistakes us as an opposition. We are not an opposition, but an alternative. That lady (Thokozani Khupe) and that guy (Douglas Mwonzora) he created are his ‘opposition’.

He says there must be a loyal opposition, loyal to who? We are loyal and patriotic to Zimbabwe and its people.

In his pre-recorded interview, Mnangagwa dismissed Chamisa and his deputy Tendai Biti as surrogates of the West, accusing them of inviting sanctions on Zimbabwe.- NewsDay

ZORA musician Leonard Karikoga Zhakata has promised his legion of fans that new stuff is on the way including a new album.

The new album titled “Mupendero Wenguva” is undergoing final touches and will be launched as soon as is practicable. Said Zhakata:

We have a lot of stuff coming with the video to the song Musandikanganwe coming soon.

Our new album titled Mupendero Wenguva is almost ready and we are looking at how and when should we launch it.

We are monitoring the situation and once it’s ideal we will launch it.

Our fans have been making enquiries but the COVID-19 pandemic has left our plans in disarray.

Zhakata and his Zimbabwe All-Stars performed at the just-ended 41st Uhuru Gala held at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC).

He hailed the gala coordinators for giving him the platform to interact with his fans in the comfort of their homes.

The Mugove hitmaker said it was a good feeling performing again even though it was a virtual performance with no fans present. Said Zhakata:

To be honest, we had missed this as musicians and It was just an amazing feeling to be back in action.-H-Metro

MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa’s statement on Independence Day:

ZIMBABWE @ 41 THE CONVERGENCE CALL- Reimagining the promise of independence.

Sunday 18 April 2021, Harare
 
Fellow Zimbabweans,

Today, the 18th of April, we commemorate 41 years of Independence an important national day in the history of our country.

The importance of independence cannot be understated,it speaks to our being, identity, nationhood and patriotism.

Our independence was hard won and fought for by every man, woman and child in this country. Independence was a product of citizens’ convergence around the the liberation idea and promise- the liberation consensus.

The occasion of Zimbabwe’s independence is a moment of great pride and triumph for us as a people who were once subjugated and held hostage by the cleavages of a system of oppression.

I join you to pay tribute to all our iconic heroes and heroines who sacrificed for independence of our country from subjugation colonial rule; The struggle’s seminal role in our history cannot be erased. It is part of our national heritage and national treasure as we honour the gallant sons and daughters, men and women who died for a great cause.

Our debt of gratitude and unconditional
appreciation goes to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Our beloved beautiful Zimbabwe.

We give a special recognition to the liberation Heroes, war Veterans, military and security services personnel, our retired veterans and all of you, the brave and patriotic people of Zimbabwe, for sacrificing everything for the attainment of our independence.

The war was waged by the majority to dismantle colonial injustices and the cause for restoration of dignity, universal suffrage (one-person one-vote), land ownership and economic independence and prosperity of great country. Thousands perished for this great and noble cause.

The war was waged for the establishment of just and fair society where all citizens are treated the same regardless of their gender,race, ethnicity or political affiliation affording them equal opportunity to prosper and pursue happiness.

The liberation effort was in pursuit and quest to establish a Transformational Democratic Developmental State, which places people at the centre of all developmental programs.

That Promise of independence remains unfulfilled – the idea of independence was and is a pact and a contract between Zimbabwe and its citizens. The liberation promise, the freedom promise, the peace promise, the prosperity promise and the transformation promise remain elusive for the greater number. This promise remains unfulfilled leading to many people, young and old, the majority even questioning its worth.

The 41 year old journey thus far has proved that more still needs to be done to ensure that the People of Great Zimbabwe enjoy the fruits of the freedom that was as a result of the selfless sacrifice by the combatants and the bravery of the masses who together complemented one another to ensure victory of liberation war effort.

Four decades later, we are confronted with another threat to that Independence in the form of a minority system based on brutality, marginalisation and discrimination, impunity and persecution using the Rhodesian manual or template of repression.

After 41 years, we have not matured into a multi-party democracy that celebrates diversity of opinion and respects Constitutionalism. We have had one continuous Republic of violence, dictatorship and repression.

The future of the Republic and it’s progressive development is under threat and cannot be guaranteed if we don’t change course.

It is vital to note that the spirit of independence did not end in 1980. It is an ongoing spirit, a never ending indomitable spirit, one that has spurred fighters for democracy to ensure that the promises of 1980 are fulfilled. The spirit of independence must inspire present generations to keep on fighting and not to despair. Young people stood up against the colonial regime when it seemed impossible. The fight against repression is never impossible.

Fellow citizens,the contradictions arresting Zimbabwe today are a result of the hijacking of the agenda of the liberation struggle and a clear disrespect of those who sacrificed to secure the independence we are talking about today.

It cannot be acceptable to have the levels of poverty in our society today,the people of Zimbabwe are subjected to unpalatable suffering living from hand to mouth.

There is need for economic emancipation; which includes opening up resources to ensure inclusive participation especially by the young.

The need to end international isolation. The country has suffered long periods of isolation since 1965 and this has largely been self-inflicted. A return to democracy, protection of human rights and fairness are critical in the path towards inclusion in the community of nations

Our independence was a product of African solidarity and international support. We salute African countries for their help to the liberation effort. We salute Zambia and other frontline states such as Tanzania for liberation assistance.

Mozambique in particular played a critical role in the liberation of Zimbabwe.

In this regard, may we deploy our solidarity to the great people of Mozambique as they go through a difficult period in their country. An unstable Mozambique is an unstable SADC and indeed an unstable Africa. A threat to one is threat to all. A lasting solution must be found in Mozambique so that there is peace and security in the region.

We call for the complete realization and preservation of an independent Africa as the continent’s new agenda to realize the aspirations of an independent African continent. An African continent that is free from oppression, an African continent that is driven by ideas and an African continent

Today is our National birthday.
We have just turned 41.
We take stock of our journey of growth since a euphoric birth in 1980.Much has been accomplished but more needs to be done.

At 41, we have missed opportunities, neglected advantages and wasted moments. We have neglected the obvious quick wins and low hanging fruits.

At 41, there is so much unhappiness, anxiety and despair undeserved of citizens of such a great and rich country.

At 41, the plight of our esteemed veterans is a source of disappointment. We don’t have adequate support and welfare benefits for our war veterans. Many still carry wounds and injuries from the wars. Many are living In abject poverty and under squalid conditions.

At 41, we have not addressed the national question and a shared national vision for our country.

At 41, we still have one television station for the whole country with some parts of the country without radio, internet or network coverage. Having to rely on networks from neighboring countries.

At 41, the heavy handedness of the state against dissenting voices is something that needs to be resolved to nourish the democratic space.Many have trumped up charges against them. Some are in prison for seeking to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms.

At 41, the existence of political prisoners of conscience and individuals in this country, who are accused of political crimes of demanding more rights and freedoms, is a clear reminder that our independence has been emptied of its meaning and in fact become a new place of oppression and lack of independence for the ordinary citizens of this country.

At 41, the continued assault on the opposition MDC Alliance as a party that represents multiparty democracy is also evidence that on our country is on a dangerous path to entrenchment of a party state.

As we speak Last Tamai Maengahama and Tungamirai Madzokere have been in prison for years for a crime they did not commit,on top of 2 years of pretrial detention.

Makomborero Haruzivishe is serving 14 months in prison for seating down and whistling.

A Member of Parliament, Hon Joanna Mamombe and youth leader, Cecilia Chimbori are in prison for holding a press conference on top of the unspeakable ordeal they went through last year.

At 41, political tolerance is still a missing link. Draconian laws and Bills are sailing through parliament. We scheme against each other instead of planning together for Great Zimbabwe.

At 41, we are a divided country where those in politics are purveyors of violence and merchants of polarisation propagating hate and spewing vitriol as core business.

At 41, we have rulers who invest in criminalizing citizens’ through several pieces of draconian law such as the mooted Patriotic Act,the Cyber law and the shameless amendments and bastardization of the national Constitution.

At 41, Zimbabwe finds itself introducing youth brainwashing disguised as national service, indicating a reversal of the gains of independence.

At 41, the continued regression and the redrawing of the country’s constitution so that it resembles the Lancaster house agreement is an indication that the independence was not about progressing this country for Zimbabweans but taking it back, as close as possible to colonial times.

At 41, we are back to the old colonial days of heart tax,dog tax and land tax.

At 41, we have a political elite who lack the conscience and care for citizens, having abandoned the responsibility to account, lead and serve.

At 41, we have is a direct replacement of a dominant and oppressive settler minority with a dominant and oppressive elite minority.

At 41, we have rigged, disputed elections and disputed government. Comprehensive structural political and electoral reforms that are yet be implemented to create a level playing field.

At 41, the world bank estimates the number of extremely poor people is around 7,9 million as of December 2020 — almost half the population. Poverty in Zimbabwe has increased by 21% in the last decade. It is now at its highest level in recorded history. Extreme poverty is now 40% of the population.

At 41, we have the second highest level of inflation in the entire world, with currency uncertainty and volatility.

At 41, we have erosion of people’s value in banks including the loss of value in people’s salaries and pensions.

At 41, we have a country drowning in debt due to the irresponsibility of an elite which is unable to live within it’s means.

At 41, workers are without a decent wage. Our teachers, nurses and civil servants are without decent salaries and that merited dignity.

At 41, Corruption has derailed the independence dream, eroding all the gains of the liberation dream. Corruption is killing us.

At 41, Our beautiful Zimbabwe is without solid infrastructure. Our roads, bridges water and communication infrastructure are in a sorry state.

At 41, thousands of graduates from universities struggle to get jobs with the in- dependent unemployment rate estimated to be above 90%. The economy is highly informal.

At 41, Zimbabwe has produced an entire generation of brilliant young people unable to derive value from the dignity of hard work,from academic brilliance to art and sporting excellence,none can reward the youths.

At 41, we witness an exponential spike in social vices such as drug abuse and violent crimes.

At 41, we run the risk is being breeding ground for radicalization in the context of rising extremism,lessons should be learnt from the situation in Mozambique. The only sure way to cultivate Patriotism,our only pathway to cultivate importance of 41 years of independence of in the hearts of young people.

At 41, dereliction of duty has failed an entire generation, failure to establish a growing economy which is inclusive and able to create decent jobs for our youths.This is the only way to create a buffer against radicalization of young people,it is the only way to ensure a sense of belonging for the young people.

At 41, the majority of our talented and skilled citizens are in the diaspora seeking greener pastures and greater opportunities.

At 41, we have an abandoned social agenda with a collapsed public health delivery system where all 7 babies born at a public days die in a day.A disgruntled public service and chaotic education sector.

At 41, Education and health remain a preserve of a privileged few. Many parents can not afford school fees, medical fees and food for their families.

At 41, our senior citizens and pensioners are without safety needs and cushioning.

At 41, many are still without title to land.

At 41, we have forced evictions of Zimbabweans by a captured elite representing interests of exploitative capitalism and connected persons.

The resolution of the land question in a manner beneficial to all of Zimbabwe’s citizens is a national priority.

Our message to all Zimbabweans in rural areas, farming areas and broader Zimbabwe is that under our leadership you will have title and ownership of their land. Under rural modernization there will be title and value to the land. The land belongs to you the pple. It is a right and it will be protected.

Land ownership and title deeds for the rural and farming communities must be guaranteed. Devolution and empowerment of communities is a crucial issue in the context of a spate of unjust evictions in Chilonga,Hwange,Chiadzwa,Chisumbanje to mention but a few

But all these challenges will come to pass.

Our answer lies in us all answering to the CONVERGENCE CALL. The call for a new national consensus that entails the convergence of all citizens for real change and national transformation.

Today is a day for introspection. Zimbabwe must unite, converge and rediscover itself.

It is time to converge and shed off undesirable retrogressive bad habits and broken politics.

A time to converge and refocus and build Zimbabwe GREAT.

A time to converge and seek an inclusive solution to our national challenges, based on a genuine acceptance of mistakes of the past and apology.

A time to converge and give true meaning to independence and the sanctity of a vote.

A time to converge and allow our best to be unleashed as we all work towards rapid transformation, quick economy recovery and prosperity.

A time to converge and restore the political rights and civil liberties which the liberation generation sacrificed for.

A time to Converge and assert the people’s victory.

A time converge and reposition Zimbabwe to its rightful place among the family of Nations.

A time to converge and embrace Truth and Reconciliation for national healing.

A time converge and break from the dark past characterized by Gukurahundi,marginalisation,exclusion,violence and corruption. A time for transparency and accountability.

It is time for restoration of the Great Zimbabwe to it’s Jewel Status.

This Independence Day is a moment to reimagine the liberation promise through citizens convergence for change.

Now is the time to have a citizens convergence for change to give true meaning to independence and patriotism.

A Great Zimbabwe is Coming.Together we can!

Building a Great Zimbabwe, Making Zimbabwe greater.
One people, One Vision, One Nation.

Winning Zimbabwe for change! Change that delivers!

God Bless You.
God Bless Our Great Zimbabwe.
God bless Africa.

God is in it !!

Thank you.

Nelson Chamisa 2021

Also watch video below:

Tinashe Sambiri|Zimbabwe Is not yet independent, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women has said.

In a statement released on Sunday, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women, condemned the persecution of female political activists by the Zanu PF regime.

The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa is plotting to create a one-party State, according to the MDC Alliance.

Read full statement below:

MDC ALLIANCE ASSEMBLY OF WOMEN STATEMENT ON INDEPENDENCE DAY 18/04/2021

NOT YET UHURU

Today (Sunday) marks 41 years of independence in Zimbabwe since 1980.

We should be celebrating and rejoicing in our homes because of Covid 19 but we are not, instead we are miserable.

Miserable in that we have nothing to put on our tables because of the economic hardships caused by Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The economy has totally collapsed and no sector is functional except the mining which is only benefiting the few elites whilst the majority are in abject poverty. We might be independent as citizens, but not free. Mnangagwa has closed all the democratic space by silencing dissenting voices because he wants to create a one party state.

We are being arrested and incarcerated each and every day for speaking out, for telling the truth that Zimbabwe is a failed state, that Mnangagwa is an illegitimate leader who is failing to resuscitate the economy. Rigging the elections might be easy but the economy cannot be rigged. Zimbabwe needs another revolution and new leaders who would free it from bondage.

Every institution is captured by Zanu PF from the Judiciary, the police, the army, the commissions as they are no longer serving the people but the dictators.

The human rights violations continue to escalate and noone is safe as Mnangagwa wants to consolidate his power by silencing the people.

We will continue fighting for our rights as women because we have suffered enough.

We need better lives and sustainable livelihoods and only this can come under the able leadership of President Advocate Nelson Chamisa. A caring President who have the people at heart.

“Our lives begin to end the moment we become silent about things that matter” – Martin Luther Jr.

“The hardest lesson of my life has come to me late, it is that a nation can win freedom without its people becoming free”. Joshua Nkomo

NotYetUhuru

Barbara Gwangwara Tanyanyiwa
Spokesperson – MDC Alliance Assembly of Women

Tinashe Sambiri|The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa reflected typical crocodile antics when he bit two political activists on the eve of Independence Day.

As Mnangagwa, also known as Ngwena spoke of reconciliation, his agents were tormenting Harare political activists Lengwani Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa.

The MDC Alliance has described Mr Mnangagwa as a hypocrite…

See the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights statement below for more information:

On the eve of commemorations to mark the 41st anniversary of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day, Legwan Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa are nursing injuries at Parirenyatwa Hospital sustained after they were tortured while in police detention.

A hospital bedside court session was convened Saturday at Parirenyatwa and the 2 were remanded to Tuesday for continuation of bail application.

A Magistrate ordered the State to investigate complaints of torture as submitted by the duo’s lawyer Webster Jiti

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights

Tinashe Sambiri|The MDC Alliance has described Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa’s POLAD as a useless head-nodding platform.

According to MDC Alliance Youth Assembly spokesperson, Stephen Sarkozy Chuma, Mr Mnangagwa cannot facilitate genuine talks:

No Cde Mnangagwa!, You Lack Probity To Call For Any Meaningful Dialogue

18-04-2021

Emmerson Mnangagwa must be reminded that he is not the rightful character to call for any dialogue meaningful dialogue.

His brandishing of our leadership as unpatriotic and Western porns is a tired lie monotonously used since the inception of MDC as an alternative to disruptive politics of ZANU PF.

Cowardly rants by Mr Mnangagwa in his Independence Day message only helps to expose him as an irresponsible character who runs away from responsibilities- a bad father who blames next door neighbors for his own shortcomings!

Mnangagwa must be reminded that his blame shifting politics is not a solution to the rot eating away our livelihoods.

It is Mr Mnangagwa’s government that invited sanctions for themselves by sending the military in broad daylight to butcher innocent civilians on 01 August 2021.

Who in his right senses from the family of progressive nations would want to engage a barbaric regime that abducts, torture and sexually abuse women as was the case with Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova.

In his little imaginary world, Mnangagwa thinks democracy is all about President Nelson Chamisa joining his useless poisoned chalice, POLAD.

Mnangagwa can not school us about democracy when the likes of Makomborero Haruzivishe, Ngonidzashe Mupfumba, Vongai Tome and others are languishing in prisons for speaking truth to power.

Mnangagwa’s regime has exhibited terrorist tendencies towards its own people.

No sane individuals dialogue with terrorists and the MDC Alliance leadership has done well by not joining Mnangagwa’s nod-heading platform.

As we mourn the death of our freedoms 41 years after independence, Mnangagwa must be warned that he must reform or face the same fate as that of other oppressive regimes of past like Ian Smith’s regime.

DefyOrDie

Agenda2021

CitizensConvergenceForChange

Stephen Sarkozy Chuma
MDC Alliance Youth Assembly National Spokesperson

MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa’s statement on Independence Day:

ZIMBABWE @ 41 THE CONVERGENCE CALL- Reimagining the promise of independence.

Sunday 18 April 2021, Harare
 
Fellow Zimbabweans,

Today, the 18th of April, we commemorate 41 years of Independence an important national day in the history of our country.

The importance of independence cannot be understated,it speaks to our being, identity, nationhood and patriotism.

Our independence was hard won and fought for by every man, woman and child in this country. Independence was a product of citizens’ convergence around the the liberation idea and promise- the liberation consensus.

The occasion of Zimbabwe’s independence is a moment of great pride and triumph for us as a people who were once subjugated and held hostage by the cleavages of a system of oppression.

I join you to pay tribute to all our iconic heroes and heroines who sacrificed for independence of our country from subjugation colonial rule; The struggle’s seminal role in our history cannot be erased. It is part of our national heritage and national treasure as we honour the gallant sons and daughters, men and women who died for a great cause.

Our debt of gratitude and unconditional
appreciation goes to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Our beloved beautiful Zimbabwe.

We give a special recognition to the liberation Heroes, war Veterans, military and security services personnel, our retired veterans and all of you, the brave and patriotic people of Zimbabwe, for sacrificing everything for the attainment of our independence.

The war was waged by the majority to dismantle colonial injustices and the cause for restoration of dignity, universal suffrage (one-person one-vote), land ownership and economic independence and prosperity of great country. Thousands perished for this great and noble cause.

The war was waged for the establishment of just and fair society where all citizens are treated the same regardless of their gender,race, ethnicity or political affiliation affording them equal opportunity to prosper and pursue happiness.

The liberation effort was in pursuit and quest to establish a Transformational Democratic Developmental State, which places people at the centre of all developmental programs.

That Promise of independence remains unfulfilled – the idea of independence was and is a pact and a contract between Zimbabwe and its citizens. The liberation promise, the freedom promise, the peace promise, the prosperity promise and the transformation promise remain elusive for the greater number. This promise remains unfulfilled leading to many people, young and old, the majority even questioning its worth.

The 41 year old journey thus far has proved that more still needs to be done to ensure that the People of Great Zimbabwe enjoy the fruits of the freedom that was as a result of the selfless sacrifice by the combatants and the bravery of the masses who together complemented one another to ensure victory of liberation war effort.

Four decades later, we are confronted with another threat to that Independence in the form of a minority system based on brutality, marginalisation and discrimination, impunity and persecution using the Rhodesian manual or template of repression.

After 41 years, we have not matured into a multi-party democracy that celebrates diversity of opinion and respects Constitutionalism. We have had one continuous Republic of violence, dictatorship and repression.

The future of the Republic and it’s progressive development is under threat and cannot be guaranteed if we don’t change course.

It is vital to note that the spirit of independence did not end in 1980. It is an ongoing spirit, a never ending indomitable spirit, one that has spurred fighters for democracy to ensure that the promises of 1980 are fulfilled. The spirit of independence must inspire present generations to keep on fighting and not to despair. Young people stood up against the colonial regime when it seemed impossible. The fight against repression is never impossible.

Fellow citizens,the contradictions arresting Zimbabwe today are a result of the hijacking of the agenda of the liberation struggle and a clear disrespect of those who sacrificed to secure the independence we are talking about today.

It cannot be acceptable to have the levels of poverty in our society today,the people of Zimbabwe are subjected to unpalatable suffering living from hand to mouth.

There is need for economic emancipation; which includes opening up resources to ensure inclusive participation especially by the young.

The need to end international isolation. The country has suffered long periods of isolation since 1965 and this has largely been self-inflicted. A return to democracy, protection of human rights and fairness are critical in the path towards inclusion in the community of nations

Our independence was a product of African solidarity and international support. We salute African countries for their help to the liberation effort. We salute Zambia and other frontline states such as Tanzania for liberation assistance.

Mozambique in particular played a critical role in the liberation of Zimbabwe.

In this regard, may we deploy our solidarity to the great people of Mozambique as they go through a difficult period in their country. An unstable Mozambique is an unstable SADC and indeed an unstable Africa. A threat to one is threat to all. A lasting solution must be found in Mozambique so that there is peace and security in the region.

We call for the complete realization and preservation of an independent Africa as the continent’s new agenda to realize the aspirations of an independent African continent. An African continent that is free from oppression, an African continent that is driven by ideas and an African continent

Today is our National birthday.
We have just turned 41.
We take stock of our journey of growth since a euphoric birth in 1980.Much has been accomplished but more needs to be done.

At 41, we have missed opportunities, neglected advantages and wasted moments. We have neglected the obvious quick wins and low hanging fruits.

At 41, there is so much unhappiness, anxiety and despair undeserved of citizens of such a great and rich country.

At 41, the plight of our esteemed veterans is a source of disappointment. We don’t have adequate support and welfare benefits for our war veterans. Many still carry wounds and injuries from the wars. Many are living In abject poverty and under squalid conditions.

At 41, we have not addressed the national question and a shared national vision for our country.

At 41, we still have one television station for the whole country with some parts of the country without radio, internet or network coverage. Having to rely on networks from neighboring countries.

At 41, the heavy handedness of the state against dissenting voices is something that needs to be resolved to nourish the democratic space.Many have trumped up charges against them. Some are in prison for seeking to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms.

At 41, the existence of political prisoners of conscience and individuals in this country, who are accused of political crimes of demanding more rights and freedoms, is a clear reminder that our independence has been emptied of its meaning and in fact become a new place of oppression and lack of independence for the ordinary citizens of this country.

At 41, the continued assault on the opposition MDC Alliance as a party that represents multiparty democracy is also evidence that on our country is on a dangerous path to entrenchment of a party state.

As we speak Last Tamai Maengahama and Tungamirai Madzokere have been in prison for years for a crime they did not commit,on top of 2 years of pretrial detention.

Makomborero Haruzivishe is serving 14 months in prison for seating down and whistling.

A Member of Parliament, Hon Joanna Mamombe and youth leader, Cecilia Chimbori are in prison for holding a press conference on top of the unspeakable ordeal they went through last year.

At 41, political tolerance is still a missing link. Draconian laws and Bills are sailing through parliament. We scheme against each other instead of planning together for Great Zimbabwe.

At 41, we are a divided country where those in politics are purveyors of violence and merchants of polarisation propagating hate and spewing vitriol as core business.

At 41, we have rulers who invest in criminalizing citizens’ through several pieces of draconian law such as the mooted Patriotic Act,the Cyber law and the shameless amendments and bastardization of the national Constitution.

At 41, Zimbabwe finds itself introducing youth brainwashing disguised as national service, indicating a reversal of the gains of independence.

At 41, the continued regression and the redrawing of the country’s constitution so that it resembles the Lancaster house agreement is an indication that the independence was not about progressing this country for Zimbabweans but taking it back, as close as possible to colonial times.

At 41, we are back to the old colonial days of heart tax,dog tax and land tax.

At 41, we have a political elite who lack the conscience and care for citizens, having abandoned the responsibility to account, lead and serve.

At 41, we have is a direct replacement of a dominant and oppressive settler minority with a dominant and oppressive elite minority.

At 41, we have rigged, disputed elections and disputed government. Comprehensive structural political and electoral reforms that are yet be implemented to create a level playing field.

At 41, the world bank estimates the number of extremely poor people is around 7,9 million as of December 2020 — almost half the population. Poverty in Zimbabwe has increased by 21% in the last decade. It is now at its highest level in recorded history. Extreme poverty is now 40% of the population.

At 41, we have the second highest level of inflation in the entire world, with currency uncertainty and volatility.

At 41, we have erosion of people’s value in banks including the loss of value in people’s salaries and pensions.

At 41, we have a country drowning in debt due to the irresponsibility of an elite which is unable to live within it’s means.

At 41, workers are without a decent wage. Our teachers, nurses and civil servants are without decent salaries and that merited dignity.

At 41, Corruption has derailed the independence dream, eroding all the gains of the liberation dream. Corruption is killing us.

At 41, Our beautiful Zimbabwe is without solid infrastructure. Our roads, bridges water and communication infrastructure are in a sorry state.

At 41, thousands of graduates from universities struggle to get jobs with the in- dependent unemployment rate estimated to be above 90%. The economy is highly informal.

At 41, Zimbabwe has produced an entire generation of brilliant young people unable to derive value from the dignity of hard work,from academic brilliance to art and sporting excellence,none can reward the youths.

At 41, we witness an exponential spike in social vices such as drug abuse and violent crimes.

At 41, we run the risk is being breeding ground for radicalization in the context of rising extremism,lessons should be learnt from the situation in Mozambique. The only sure way to cultivate Patriotism,our only pathway to cultivate importance of 41 years of independence of in the hearts of young people.

At 41, dereliction of duty has failed an entire generation, failure to establish a growing economy which is inclusive and able to create decent jobs for our youths.This is the only way to create a buffer against radicalization of young people,it is the only way to ensure a sense of belonging for the young people.

At 41, the majority of our talented and skilled citizens are in the diaspora seeking greener pastures and greater opportunities.

At 41, we have an abandoned social agenda with a collapsed public health delivery system where all 7 babies born at a public days die in a day.A disgruntled public service and chaotic education sector.

At 41, Education and health remain a preserve of a privileged few. Many parents can not afford school fees, medical fees and food for their families.

At 41, our senior citizens and pensioners are without safety needs and cushioning.

At 41, many are still without title to land.

At 41, we have forced evictions of Zimbabweans by a captured elite representing interests of exploitative capitalism and connected persons.

The resolution of the land question in a manner beneficial to all of Zimbabwe’s citizens is a national priority.

Our message to all Zimbabweans in rural areas, farming areas and broader Zimbabwe is that under our leadership you will have title and ownership of their land. Under rural modernization there will be title and value to the land. The land belongs to you the pple. It is a right and it will be protected.

Land ownership and title deeds for the rural and farming communities must be guaranteed. Devolution and empowerment of communities is a crucial issue in the context of a spate of unjust evictions in Chilonga,Hwange,Chiadzwa,Chisumbanje to mention but a few

But all these challenges will come to pass.

Our answer lies in us all answering to the CONVERGENCE CALL. The call for a new national consensus that entails the convergence of all citizens for real change and national transformation.

Today is a day for introspection. Zimbabwe must unite, converge and rediscover itself.

It is time to converge and shed off undesirable retrogressive bad habits and broken politics.

A time to converge and refocus and build Zimbabwe GREAT.

A time to converge and seek an inclusive solution to our national challenges, based on a genuine acceptance of mistakes of the past and apology.

A time to converge and give true meaning to independence and the sanctity of a vote.

A time to converge and allow our best to be unleashed as we all work towards rapid transformation, quick economy recovery and prosperity.

A time to converge and restore the political rights and civil liberties which the liberation generation sacrificed for.

A time to Converge and assert the people’s victory.

A time converge and reposition Zimbabwe to its rightful place among the family of Nations.

A time to converge and embrace Truth and Reconciliation for national healing.

A time converge and break from the dark past characterized by Gukurahundi,marginalisation,exclusion,violence and corruption. A time for transparency and accountability.

It is time for restoration of the Great Zimbabwe to it’s Jewel Status.

This Independence Day is a moment to reimagine the liberation promise through citizens convergence for change.

Now is the time to have a citizens convergence for change to give true meaning to independence and patriotism.

A Great Zimbabwe is Coming.Together we can!

Building a Great Zimbabwe, Making Zimbabwe greater.
One people, One Vision, One Nation.

Winning Zimbabwe for change! Change that delivers!

God Bless You.
God Bless Our Great Zimbabwe.
God bless Africa.

God is in it !!

Thank you.

Nelson Chamisa 2021

Also watch video below:

MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa’s statement on Independence Day:

ZIMBABWE @ 41 THE CONVERGENCE CALL- Reimagining the promise of independence.

Sunday 18 April 2021, Harare
 
Fellow Zimbabweans,

Today, the 18th of April, we commemorate 41 years of Independence an important national day in the history of our country.

The importance of independence cannot be understated,it speaks to our being, identity, nationhood and patriotism.

Our independence was hard won and fought for by every man, woman and child in this country. Independence was a product of citizens’ convergence around the the liberation idea and promise- the liberation consensus.

The occasion of Zimbabwe’s independence is a moment of great pride and triumph for us as a people who were once subjugated and held hostage by the cleavages of a system of oppression.

I join you to pay tribute to all our iconic heroes and heroines who sacrificed for independence of our country from subjugation colonial rule; The struggle’s seminal role in our history cannot be erased. It is part of our national heritage and national treasure as we honour the gallant sons and daughters, men and women who died for a great cause.

Our debt of gratitude and unconditional
appreciation goes to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Our beloved beautiful Zimbabwe.

We give a special recognition to the liberation Heroes, war Veterans, military and security services personnel, our retired veterans and all of you, the brave and patriotic people of Zimbabwe, for sacrificing everything for the attainment of our independence.

The war was waged by the majority to dismantle colonial injustices and the cause for restoration of dignity, universal suffrage (one-person one-vote), land ownership and economic independence and prosperity of great country. Thousands perished for this great and noble cause.

The war was waged for the establishment of just and fair society where all citizens are treated the same regardless of their gender,race, ethnicity or political affiliation affording them equal opportunity to prosper and pursue happiness.

The liberation effort was in pursuit and quest to establish a Transformational Democratic Developmental State, which places people at the centre of all developmental programs.

That Promise of independence remains unfulfilled – the idea of independence was and is a pact and a contract between Zimbabwe and its citizens. The liberation promise, the freedom promise, the peace promise, the prosperity promise and the transformation promise remain elusive for the greater number. This promise remains unfulfilled leading to many people, young and old, the majority even questioning its worth.

The 41 year old journey thus far has proved that more still needs to be done to ensure that the People of Great Zimbabwe enjoy the fruits of the freedom that was as a result of the selfless sacrifice by the combatants and the bravery of the masses who together complemented one another to ensure victory of liberation war effort.

Four decades later, we are confronted with another threat to that Independence in the form of a minority system based on brutality, marginalisation and discrimination, impunity and persecution using the Rhodesian manual or template of repression.

After 41 years, we have not matured into a multi-party democracy that celebrates diversity of opinion and respects Constitutionalism. We have had one continuous Republic of violence, dictatorship and repression.

The future of the Republic and it’s progressive development is under threat and cannot be guaranteed if we don’t change course.

It is vital to note that the spirit of independence did not end in 1980. It is an ongoing spirit, a never ending indomitable spirit, one that has spurred fighters for democracy to ensure that the promises of 1980 are fulfilled. The spirit of independence must inspire present generations to keep on fighting and not to despair. Young people stood up against the colonial regime when it seemed impossible. The fight against repression is never impossible.

Fellow citizens,the contradictions arresting Zimbabwe today are a result of the hijacking of the agenda of the liberation struggle and a clear disrespect of those who sacrificed to secure the independence we are talking about today.

It cannot be acceptable to have the levels of poverty in our society today,the people of Zimbabwe are subjected to unpalatable suffering living from hand to mouth.

There is need for economic emancipation; which includes opening up resources to ensure inclusive participation especially by the young.

The need to end international isolation. The country has suffered long periods of isolation since 1965 and this has largely been self-inflicted. A return to democracy, protection of human rights and fairness are critical in the path towards inclusion in the community of nations

Our independence was a product of African solidarity and international support. We salute African countries for their help to the liberation effort. We salute Zambia and other frontline states such as Tanzania for liberation assistance.

Mozambique in particular played a critical role in the liberation of Zimbabwe.

In this regard, may we deploy our solidarity to the great people of Mozambique as they go through a difficult period in their country. An unstable Mozambique is an unstable SADC and indeed an unstable Africa. A threat to one is threat to all. A lasting solution must be found in Mozambique so that there is peace and security in the region.

We call for the complete realization and preservation of an independent Africa as the continent’s new agenda to realize the aspirations of an independent African continent. An African continent that is free from oppression, an African continent that is driven by ideas and an African continent

Today is our National birthday.
We have just turned 41.
We take stock of our journey of growth since a euphoric birth in 1980.Much has been accomplished but more needs to be done.

At 41, we have missed opportunities, neglected advantages and wasted moments. We have neglected the obvious quick wins and low hanging fruits.

At 41, there is so much unhappiness, anxiety and despair undeserved of citizens of such a great and rich country.

At 41, the plight of our esteemed veterans is a source of disappointment. We don’t have adequate support and welfare benefits for our war veterans. Many still carry wounds and injuries from the wars. Many are living In abject poverty and under squalid conditions.

At 41, we have not addressed the national question and a shared national vision for our country.

At 41, we still have one television station for the whole country with some parts of the country without radio, internet or network coverage. Having to rely on networks from neighboring countries.

At 41, the heavy handedness of the state against dissenting voices is something that needs to be resolved to nourish the democratic space.Many have trumped up charges against them. Some are in prison for seeking to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms.

At 41, the existence of political prisoners of conscience and individuals in this country, who are accused of political crimes of demanding more rights and freedoms, is a clear reminder that our independence has been emptied of its meaning and in fact become a new place of oppression and lack of independence for the ordinary citizens of this country.

At 41, the continued assault on the opposition MDC Alliance as a party that represents multiparty democracy is also evidence that on our country is on a dangerous path to entrenchment of a party state.

As we speak Last Tamai Maengahama and Tungamirai Madzokere have been in prison for years for a crime they did not commit,on top of 2 years of pretrial detention.

Makomborero Haruzivishe is serving 14 months in prison for seating down and whistling.

A Member of Parliament, Hon Joanna Mamombe and youth leader, Cecilia Chimbori are in prison for holding a press conference on top of the unspeakable ordeal they went through last year.

At 41, political tolerance is still a missing link. Draconian laws and Bills are sailing through parliament. We scheme against each other instead of planning together for Great Zimbabwe.

At 41, we are a divided country where those in politics are purveyors of violence and merchants of polarisation propagating hate and spewing vitriol as core business.

At 41, we have rulers who invest in criminalizing citizens’ through several pieces of draconian law such as the mooted Patriotic Act,the Cyber law and the shameless amendments and bastardization of the national Constitution.

At 41, Zimbabwe finds itself introducing youth brainwashing disguised as national service, indicating a reversal of the gains of independence.

At 41, the continued regression and the redrawing of the country’s constitution so that it resembles the Lancaster house agreement is an indication that the independence was not about progressing this country for Zimbabweans but taking it back, as close as possible to colonial times.

At 41, we are back to the old colonial days of heart tax,dog tax and land tax.

At 41, we have a political elite who lack the conscience and care for citizens, having abandoned the responsibility to account, lead and serve.

At 41, we have is a direct replacement of a dominant and oppressive settler minority with a dominant and oppressive elite minority.

At 41, we have rigged, disputed elections and disputed government. Comprehensive structural political and electoral reforms that are yet be implemented to create a level playing field.

At 41, the world bank estimates the number of extremely poor people is around 7,9 million as of December 2020 — almost half the population. Poverty in Zimbabwe has increased by 21% in the last decade. It is now at its highest level in recorded history. Extreme poverty is now 40% of the population.

At 41, we have the second highest level of inflation in the entire world, with currency uncertainty and volatility.

At 41, we have erosion of people’s value in banks including the loss of value in people’s salaries and pensions.

At 41, we have a country drowning in debt due to the irresponsibility of an elite which is unable to live within it’s means.

At 41, workers are without a decent wage. Our teachers, nurses and civil servants are without decent salaries and that merited dignity.

At 41, Corruption has derailed the independence dream, eroding all the gains of the liberation dream. Corruption is killing us.

At 41, Our beautiful Zimbabwe is without solid infrastructure. Our roads, bridges water and communication infrastructure are in a sorry state.

At 41, thousands of graduates from universities struggle to get jobs with the in- dependent unemployment rate estimated to be above 90%. The economy is highly informal.

At 41, Zimbabwe has produced an entire generation of brilliant young people unable to derive value from the dignity of hard work,from academic brilliance to art and sporting excellence,none can reward the youths.

At 41, we witness an exponential spike in social vices such as drug abuse and violent crimes.

At 41, we run the risk is being breeding ground for radicalization in the context of rising extremism,lessons should be learnt from the situation in Mozambique. The only sure way to cultivate Patriotism,our only pathway to cultivate importance of 41 years of independence of in the hearts of young people.

At 41, dereliction of duty has failed an entire generation, failure to establish a growing economy which is inclusive and able to create decent jobs for our youths.This is the only way to create a buffer against radicalization of young people,it is the only way to ensure a sense of belonging for the young people.

At 41, the majority of our talented and skilled citizens are in the diaspora seeking greener pastures and greater opportunities.

At 41, we have an abandoned social agenda with a collapsed public health delivery system where all 7 babies born at a public days die in a day.A disgruntled public service and chaotic education sector.

At 41, Education and health remain a preserve of a privileged few. Many parents can not afford school fees, medical fees and food for their families.

At 41, our senior citizens and pensioners are without safety needs and cushioning.

At 41, many are still without title to land.

At 41, we have forced evictions of Zimbabweans by a captured elite representing interests of exploitative capitalism and connected persons.

The resolution of the land question in a manner beneficial to all of Zimbabwe’s citizens is a national priority.

Our message to all Zimbabweans in rural areas, farming areas and broader Zimbabwe is that under our leadership you will have title and ownership of their land. Under rural modernization there will be title and value to the land. The land belongs to you the pple. It is a right and it will be protected.

Land ownership and title deeds for the rural and farming communities must be guaranteed. Devolution and empowerment of communities is a crucial issue in the context of a spate of unjust evictions in Chilonga,Hwange,Chiadzwa,Chisumbanje to mention but a few

But all these challenges will come to pass.

Our answer lies in us all answering to the CONVERGENCE CALL. The call for a new national consensus that entails the convergence of all citizens for real change and national transformation.

Today is a day for introspection. Zimbabwe must unite, converge and rediscover itself.

It is time to converge and shed off undesirable retrogressive bad habits and broken politics.

A time to converge and refocus and build Zimbabwe GREAT.

A time to converge and seek an inclusive solution to our national challenges, based on a genuine acceptance of mistakes of the past and apology.

A time to converge and give true meaning to independence and the sanctity of a vote.

A time to converge and allow our best to be unleashed as we all work towards rapid transformation, quick economy recovery and prosperity.

A time to converge and restore the political rights and civil liberties which the liberation generation sacrificed for.

A time to Converge and assert the people’s victory.

A time converge and reposition Zimbabwe to its rightful place among the family of Nations.

A time to converge and embrace Truth and Reconciliation for national healing.

A time converge and break from the dark past characterized by Gukurahundi,marginalisation,exclusion,violence and corruption. A time for transparency and accountability.

It is time for restoration of the Great Zimbabwe to it’s Jewel Status.

This Independence Day is a moment to reimagine the liberation promise through citizens convergence for change.

Now is the time to have a citizens convergence for change to give true meaning to independence and patriotism.

A Great Zimbabwe is Coming.Together we can!

Building a Great Zimbabwe, Making Zimbabwe greater.
One people, One Vision, One Nation.

Winning Zimbabwe for change! Change that delivers!

God Bless You.
God Bless Our Great Zimbabwe.
God bless Africa.

God is in it !!

Thank you.

Nelson Chamisa 2021

Also watch video below:

After studying law, he was also recruited by Robert Mugabe, to replace those who were fighting the war…

By A Correspondent | A fearless female war vet announces in a 2019 press conference video that has gone viral saying:

Emmerson Mnangagwa didn’t fight in the liberation struggle, he was only handpicked by the late president Robert Mugabe to displace real fighters.

The development comes against the backdrop of claims by Mnangagwa that he was a crocodile gang member in the 1960s led by the late Cde William Ndangana, being found to be totally false and misleading.

Cde Karen Kazingizi speaks saying:

So I want to know these comrades who go around cutting voters’ hands, to find out: are they real comrades, or they are Mugabe’s people he took from Ian Smith’s mercenaries? ….

The same people he now gives the war vet badge, which soils our image..

So that’s one other thing we are working on our identity. We are not trying to be these ugly people that the whole nation now thinks we are. Did you ever see us? They put this type of a picture in front of you, of a personality cult who you must worship. The Phillip Chiyangwa type we did not have them at all during the war, the Chiyangwas, they are the richest of them. Can you show me one comrade that you know who went into government in 1980, who was trained like us? Even those who were the seniors, like Muzenda where are they?

Emmerson Mnangagwa is one of them (a male journalist vet asks).

Comrade Emmerson came out of prison, according to the history I know; after coming out of prison, he went over to study law, isn’t it?

After studying law, he was also recruited by Robert Mugabe, to replace those who were fighting the war.

When the war finished, when Mugabe had ended the war, the people who had elected him to lead them from the Mgagao Declaration, he had chopped them all off, all of them the Gamatox and other factions without number. He kicked all of them out accusing them of betraying the struggle. You know, we don’t want to end up telling the truth, but I think the youth deserve to know the truth.

MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa’s statement on Independence Day:

ZIMBABWE @ 41 THE CONVERGENCE CALL- Reimagining the promise of independence.

Sunday 18 April 2021, Harare
 
Fellow Zimbabweans,

Today, the 18th of April, we commemorate 41 years of Independence an important national day in the history of our country.

The importance of independence cannot be understated,it speaks to our being, identity, nationhood and patriotism.

Our independence was hard won and fought for by every man, woman and child in this country. Independence was a product of citizens’ convergence around the the liberation idea and promise- the liberation consensus.

The occasion of Zimbabwe’s independence is a moment of great pride and triumph for us as a people who were once subjugated and held hostage by the cleavages of a system of oppression.

I join you to pay tribute to all our iconic heroes and heroines who sacrificed for independence of our country from subjugation colonial rule; The struggle’s seminal role in our history cannot be erased. It is part of our national heritage and national treasure as we honour the gallant sons and daughters, men and women who died for a great cause.

Our debt of gratitude and unconditional
appreciation goes to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Our beloved beautiful Zimbabwe.

We give a special recognition to the liberation Heroes, war Veterans, military and security services personnel, our retired veterans and all of you, the brave and patriotic people of Zimbabwe, for sacrificing everything for the attainment of our independence.

The war was waged by the majority to dismantle colonial injustices and the cause for restoration of dignity, universal suffrage (one-person one-vote), land ownership and economic independence and prosperity of great country. Thousands perished for this great and noble cause.

The war was waged for the establishment of just and fair society where all citizens are treated the same regardless of their gender,race, ethnicity or political affiliation affording them equal opportunity to prosper and pursue happiness.

The liberation effort was in pursuit and quest to establish a Transformational Democratic Developmental State, which places people at the centre of all developmental programs.

That Promise of independence remains unfulfilled – the idea of independence was and is a pact and a contract between Zimbabwe and its citizens. The liberation promise, the freedom promise, the peace promise, the prosperity promise and the transformation promise remain elusive for the greater number. This promise remains unfulfilled leading to many people, young and old, the majority even questioning its worth.

The 41 year old journey thus far has proved that more still needs to be done to ensure that the People of Great Zimbabwe enjoy the fruits of the freedom that was as a result of the selfless sacrifice by the combatants and the bravery of the masses who together complemented one another to ensure victory of liberation war effort.

Four decades later, we are confronted with another threat to that Independence in the form of a minority system based on brutality, marginalisation and discrimination, impunity and persecution using the Rhodesian manual or template of repression.

After 41 years, we have not matured into a multi-party democracy that celebrates diversity of opinion and respects Constitutionalism. We have had one continuous Republic of violence, dictatorship and repression.

The future of the Republic and it’s progressive development is under threat and cannot be guaranteed if we don’t change course.

It is vital to note that the spirit of independence did not end in 1980. It is an ongoing spirit, a never ending indomitable spirit, one that has spurred fighters for democracy to ensure that the promises of 1980 are fulfilled. The spirit of independence must inspire present generations to keep on fighting and not to despair. Young people stood up against the colonial regime when it seemed impossible. The fight against repression is never impossible.

Fellow citizens,the contradictions arresting Zimbabwe today are a result of the hijacking of the agenda of the liberation struggle and a clear disrespect of those who sacrificed to secure the independence we are talking about today.

It cannot be acceptable to have the levels of poverty in our society today,the people of Zimbabwe are subjected to unpalatable suffering living from hand to mouth.

There is need for economic emancipation; which includes opening up resources to ensure inclusive participation especially by the young.

The need to end international isolation. The country has suffered long periods of isolation since 1965 and this has largely been self-inflicted. A return to democracy, protection of human rights and fairness are critical in the path towards inclusion in the community of nations

Our independence was a product of African solidarity and international support. We salute African countries for their help to the liberation effort. We salute Zambia and other frontline states such as Tanzania for liberation assistance.

Mozambique in particular played a critical role in the liberation of Zimbabwe.

In this regard, may we deploy our solidarity to the great people of Mozambique as they go through a difficult period in their country. An unstable Mozambique is an unstable SADC and indeed an unstable Africa. A threat to one is threat to all. A lasting solution must be found in Mozambique so that there is peace and security in the region.

We call for the complete realization and preservation of an independent Africa as the continent’s new agenda to realize the aspirations of an independent African continent. An African continent that is free from oppression, an African continent that is driven by ideas and an African continent

Today is our National birthday.
We have just turned 41.
We take stock of our journey of growth since a euphoric birth in 1980.Much has been accomplished but more needs to be done.

At 41, we have missed opportunities, neglected advantages and wasted moments. We have neglected the obvious quick wins and low hanging fruits.

At 41, there is so much unhappiness, anxiety and despair undeserved of citizens of such a great and rich country.

At 41, the plight of our esteemed veterans is a source of disappointment. We don’t have adequate support and welfare benefits for our war veterans. Many still carry wounds and injuries from the wars. Many are living In abject poverty and under squalid conditions.

At 41, we have not addressed the national question and a shared national vision for our country.

At 41, we still have one television station for the whole country with some parts of the country without radio, internet or network coverage. Having to rely on networks from neighboring countries.

At 41, the heavy handedness of the state against dissenting voices is something that needs to be resolved to nourish the democratic space.Many have trumped up charges against them. Some are in prison for seeking to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms.

At 41, the existence of political prisoners of conscience and individuals in this country, who are accused of political crimes of demanding more rights and freedoms, is a clear reminder that our independence has been emptied of its meaning and in fact become a new place of oppression and lack of independence for the ordinary citizens of this country.

At 41, the continued assault on the opposition MDC Alliance as a party that represents multiparty democracy is also evidence that on our country is on a dangerous path to entrenchment of a party state.

As we speak Last Tamai Maengahama and Tungamirai Madzokere have been in prison for years for a crime they did not commit,on top of 2 years of pretrial detention.

Makomborero Haruzivishe is serving 14 months in prison for seating down and whistling.

A Member of Parliament, Hon Joanna Mamombe and youth leader, Cecilia Chimbori are in prison for holding a press conference on top of the unspeakable ordeal they went through last year.

At 41, political tolerance is still a missing link. Draconian laws and Bills are sailing through parliament. We scheme against each other instead of planning together for Great Zimbabwe.

At 41, we are a divided country where those in politics are purveyors of violence and merchants of polarisation propagating hate and spewing vitriol as core business.

At 41, we have rulers who invest in criminalizing citizens’ through several pieces of draconian law such as the mooted Patriotic Act,the Cyber law and the shameless amendments and bastardization of the national Constitution.

At 41, Zimbabwe finds itself introducing youth brainwashing disguised as national service, indicating a reversal of the gains of independence.

At 41, the continued regression and the redrawing of the country’s constitution so that it resembles the Lancaster house agreement is an indication that the independence was not about progressing this country for Zimbabweans but taking it back, as close as possible to colonial times.

At 41, we are back to the old colonial days of heart tax,dog tax and land tax.

At 41, we have a political elite who lack the conscience and care for citizens, having abandoned the responsibility to account, lead and serve.

At 41, we have is a direct replacement of a dominant and oppressive settler minority with a dominant and oppressive elite minority.

At 41, we have rigged, disputed elections and disputed government. Comprehensive structural political and electoral reforms that are yet be implemented to create a level playing field.

At 41, the world bank estimates the number of extremely poor people is around 7,9 million as of December 2020 — almost half the population. Poverty in Zimbabwe has increased by 21% in the last decade. It is now at its highest level in recorded history. Extreme poverty is now 40% of the population.

At 41, we have the second highest level of inflation in the entire world, with currency uncertainty and volatility.

At 41, we have erosion of people’s value in banks including the loss of value in people’s salaries and pensions.

At 41, we have a country drowning in debt due to the irresponsibility of an elite which is unable to live within it’s means.

At 41, workers are without a decent wage. Our teachers, nurses and civil servants are without decent salaries and that merited dignity.

At 41, Corruption has derailed the independence dream, eroding all the gains of the liberation dream. Corruption is killing us.

At 41, Our beautiful Zimbabwe is without solid infrastructure. Our roads, bridges water and communication infrastructure are in a sorry state.

At 41, thousands of graduates from universities struggle to get jobs with the in- dependent unemployment rate estimated to be above 90%. The economy is highly informal.

At 41, Zimbabwe has produced an entire generation of brilliant young people unable to derive value from the dignity of hard work,from academic brilliance to art and sporting excellence,none can reward the youths.

At 41, we witness an exponential spike in social vices such as drug abuse and violent crimes.

At 41, we run the risk is being breeding ground for radicalization in the context of rising extremism,lessons should be learnt from the situation in Mozambique. The only sure way to cultivate Patriotism,our only pathway to cultivate importance of 41 years of independence of in the hearts of young people.

At 41, dereliction of duty has failed an entire generation, failure to establish a growing economy which is inclusive and able to create decent jobs for our youths.This is the only way to create a buffer against radicalization of young people,it is the only way to ensure a sense of belonging for the young people.

At 41, the majority of our talented and skilled citizens are in the diaspora seeking greener pastures and greater opportunities.

At 41, we have an abandoned social agenda with a collapsed public health delivery system where all 7 babies born at a public days die in a day.A disgruntled public service and chaotic education sector.

At 41, Education and health remain a preserve of a privileged few. Many parents can not afford school fees, medical fees and food for their families.

At 41, our senior citizens and pensioners are without safety needs and cushioning.

At 41, many are still without title to land.

At 41, we have forced evictions of Zimbabweans by a captured elite representing interests of exploitative capitalism and connected persons.

The resolution of the land question in a manner beneficial to all of Zimbabwe’s citizens is a national priority.

Our message to all Zimbabweans in rural areas, farming areas and broader Zimbabwe is that under our leadership you will have title and ownership of their land. Under rural modernization there will be title and value to the land. The land belongs to you the pple. It is a right and it will be protected.

Land ownership and title deeds for the rural and farming communities must be guaranteed. Devolution and empowerment of communities is a crucial issue in the context of a spate of unjust evictions in Chilonga,Hwange,Chiadzwa,Chisumbanje to mention but a few

But all these challenges will come to pass.

Our answer lies in us all answering to the CONVERGENCE CALL. The call for a new national consensus that entails the convergence of all citizens for real change and national transformation.

Today is a day for introspection. Zimbabwe must unite, converge and rediscover itself.

It is time to converge and shed off undesirable retrogressive bad habits and broken politics.

A time to converge and refocus and build Zimbabwe GREAT.

A time to converge and seek an inclusive solution to our national challenges, based on a genuine acceptance of mistakes of the past and apology.

A time to converge and give true meaning to independence and the sanctity of a vote.

A time to converge and allow our best to be unleashed as we all work towards rapid transformation, quick economy recovery and prosperity.

A time to converge and restore the political rights and civil liberties which the liberation generation sacrificed for.

A time to Converge and assert the people’s victory.

A time converge and reposition Zimbabwe to its rightful place among the family of Nations.

A time to converge and embrace Truth and Reconciliation for national healing.

A time converge and break from the dark past characterized by Gukurahundi,marginalisation,exclusion,violence and corruption. A time for transparency and accountability.

It is time for restoration of the Great Zimbabwe to it’s Jewel Status.

This Independence Day is a moment to reimagine the liberation promise through citizens convergence for change.

Now is the time to have a citizens convergence for change to give true meaning to independence and patriotism.

A Great Zimbabwe is Coming.Together we can!

Building a Great Zimbabwe, Making Zimbabwe greater.
One people, One Vision, One Nation.

Winning Zimbabwe for change! Change that delivers!

God Bless You.
God Bless Our Great Zimbabwe.
God bless Africa.

God is in it !!

Thank you.

Nelson Chamisa 2021

Also watch video below:

Tinashe Sambiri|Zimbabwe Is not yet independent, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women has said.

In a statement released on Sunday, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women, condemned the persecution of female political activists by the Zanu PF regime.

The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa is plotting to create a one-party State, according to the MDC Alliance.

Read full statement below:

MDC ALLIANCE ASSEMBLY OF WOMEN STATEMENT ON INDEPENDENCE DAY 18/04/2021

NOT YET UHURU

Today (Sunday) marks 41 years of independence in Zimbabwe since 1980.

We should be celebrating and rejoicing in our homes because of Covid 19 but we are not, instead we are miserable.

Miserable in that we have nothing to put on our tables because of the economic hardships caused by Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The economy has totally collapsed and no sector is functional except the mining which is only benefiting the few elites whilst the majority are in abject poverty. We might be independent as citizens, but not free. Mnangagwa has closed all the democratic space by silencing dissenting voices because he wants to create a one party state.

We are being arrested and incarcerated each and every day for speaking out, for telling the truth that Zimbabwe is a failed state, that Mnangagwa is an illegitimate leader who is failing to resuscitate the economy. Rigging the elections might be easy but the economy cannot be rigged. Zimbabwe needs another revolution and new leaders who would free it from bondage.

Every institution is captured by Zanu PF from the Judiciary, the police, the army, the commissions as they are no longer serving the people but the dictators.

The human rights violations continue to escalate and noone is safe as Mnangagwa wants to consolidate his power by silencing the people.

We will continue fighting for our rights as women because we have suffered enough.

We need better lives and sustainable livelihoods and only this can come under the able leadership of President Advocate Nelson Chamisa. A caring President who have the people at heart.

“Our lives begin to end the moment we become silent about things that matter” – Martin Luther Jr.

“The hardest lesson of my life has come to me late, it is that a nation can win freedom without its people becoming free”. Joshua Nkomo

NotYetUhuru

Barbara Gwangwara Tanyanyiwa
Spokesperson – MDC Alliance Assembly of Women

Tinashe Sambiri|The MDC Alliance has described Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa’s POLAD as a useless head-nodding platform.

According to MDC Alliance Youth Assembly spokesperson, Stephen Sarkozy Chuma, Mr Mnangagwa cannot facilitate genuine talks:

No Cde Mnangagwa!, You Lack Probity To Call For Any Meaningful Dialogue

18-04-2021

Emmerson Mnangagwa must be reminded that he is not the rightful character to call for any dialogue meaningful dialogue.

His brandishing of our leadership as unpatriotic and Western porns is a tired lie monotonously used since the inception of MDC as an alternative to disruptive politics of ZANU PF.

Cowardly rants by Mr Mnangagwa in his Independence Day message only helps to expose him as an irresponsible character who runs away from responsibilities- a bad father who blames next door neighbors for his own shortcomings!

Mnangagwa must be reminded that his blame shifting politics is not a solution to the rot eating away our livelihoods.

It is Mr Mnangagwa’s government that invited sanctions for themselves by sending the military in broad daylight to butcher innocent civilians on 01 August 2021.

Who in his right senses from the family of progressive nations would want to engage a barbaric regime that abducts, torture and sexually abuse women as was the case with Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova.

In his little imaginary world, Mnangagwa thinks democracy is all about President Nelson Chamisa joining his useless poisoned chalice, POLAD.

Mnangagwa can not school us about democracy when the likes of Makomborero Haruzivishe, Ngonidzashe Mupfumba, Vongai Tome and others are languishing in prisons for speaking truth to power.

Mnangagwa’s regime has exhibited terrorist tendencies towards its own people.

No sane individuals dialogue with terrorists and the MDC Alliance leadership has done well by not joining Mnangagwa’s nod-heading platform.

As we mourn the death of our freedoms 41 years after independence, Mnangagwa must be warned that he must reform or face the same fate as that of other oppressive regimes of past like Ian Smith’s regime.

DefyOrDie

Agenda2021

CitizensConvergenceForChange

Stephen Sarkozy Chuma
MDC Alliance Youth Assembly National Spokesperson

Tinashe Sambiri|The MDC Alliance has described Zanu PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa’s POLAD as a useless head-nodding platform.

According to MDC Alliance Youth Assembly spokesperson, Stephen Sarkozy Chuma, Mr Mnangagwa cannot facilitate genuine talks:

No Cde Mnangagwa!, You Lack Probity To Call For Any Meaningful Dialogue

18-04-2021

Emmerson Mnangagwa must be reminded that he is not the rightful character to call for any dialogue meaningful dialogue.

His brandishing of our leadership as unpatriotic and Western porns is a tired lie monotonously used since the inception of MDC as an alternative to disruptive politics of ZANU PF.

Cowardly rants by Mr Mnangagwa in his Independence Day message only helps to expose him as an irresponsible character who runs away from responsibilities- a bad father who blames next door neighbors for his own shortcomings!

Mnangagwa must be reminded that his blame shifting politics is not a solution to the rot eating away our livelihoods.

It is Mr Mnangagwa’s government that invited sanctions for themselves by sending the military in broad daylight to butcher innocent civilians on 01 August 2021.

Who in his right senses from the family of progressive nations would want to engage a barbaric regime that abducts, torture and sexually abuse women as was the case with Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova.

In his little imaginary world, Mnangagwa thinks democracy is all about President Nelson Chamisa joining his useless poisoned chalice, POLAD.

Mnangagwa can not school us about democracy when the likes of Makomborero Haruzivishe, Ngonidzashe Mupfumba, Vongai Tome and others are languishing in prisons for speaking truth to power.

Mnangagwa’s regime has exhibited terrorist tendencies towards its own people.

No sane individuals dialogue with terrorists and the MDC Alliance leadership has done well by not joining Mnangagwa’s nod-heading platform.

As we mourn the death of our freedoms 41 years after independence, Mnangagwa must be warned that he must reform or face the same fate as that of other oppressive regimes of past like Ian Smith’s regime.

DefyOrDie

Agenda2021

CitizensConvergenceForChange

Stephen Sarkozy Chuma
MDC Alliance Youth Assembly National Spokesperson

Tinashe Sambiri|The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa reflected typical crocodile antics when he bit two political activists on the eve of Independence Day.

As Mnangagwa, also known as Ngwena spoke of reconciliation, his agents were tormenting Harare political activists Lengwani Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa.

The MDC Alliance has described Mr Mnangagwa as a hypocrite…

See the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights statement below for more information:

On the eve of commemorations to mark the 41st anniversary of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day, Legwan Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa are nursing injuries at Parirenyatwa Hospital sustained after they were tortured while in police detention.

A hospital bedside court session was convened Saturday at Parirenyatwa and the 2 were remanded to Tuesday for continuation of bail application.

A Magistrate ordered the State to investigate complaints of torture as submitted by the duo’s lawyer Webster Jiti

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights

Tinashe Sambiri|Zimbabwe Is not yet independent, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women has said.

In a statement released on Sunday, the MDC Alliance Assembly of Women, condemned the persecution of female political activists by the Zanu PF regime.

The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa is plotting to create a one-party State, according to the MDC Alliance.

Read full statement below:

MDC ALLIANCE ASSEMBLY OF WOMEN STATEMENT ON INDEPENDENCE DAY 18/04/2021

NOT YET UHURU

Today (Sunday) marks 41 years of independence in Zimbabwe since 1980.

We should be celebrating and rejoicing in our homes because of Covid 19 but we are not, instead we are miserable.

Miserable in that we have nothing to put on our tables because of the economic hardships caused by Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The economy has totally collapsed and no sector is functional except the mining which is only benefiting the few elites whilst the majority wallop in abject poverty. We might be independent as citizens, but not free. Mnangagwa has closed all the democratic space by silencing dissenting voices because he wants to create a one party state.

We are being arrested and incarcerated each and every day for speaking out, for telling the truth that Zimbabwe is a failed state, that Mnangagwa is an illegitimate leader who is failing to resuscitate the economy. Rigging the elections might be easy but the economy cannot be rigged. Zimbabwe needs another revolution and new leaders who would free it from bondage.

Every institution is captured by Zanu PF from the Judiciary, the police, the army, the commissions as they are no longer serving the people but the dictators. The human rights violations continue to escalate and noone is safe as Mnangagwa wants to consolidate his power by silencing the people.

We will continue fighting for our rights as women because we have suffered enough. We need better lives and sustainable livelihoods and only this can come under the able leadership of President Advocate Nelson Chamisa. A caring President who have the people at heart.

“Our lives begin to end the moment we become silent about things that matter” – Martin Luther Jr.

“The hardest lesson of my life has come to me late, it is that a nation can win freedom without its people becoming free”. Joshua Nkomo

NotYetUhuru

Barbara Gwangwara Tanyanyiwa
Spokesperson – MDC Alliance Assembly of Women

Tinashe Sambiri|The Zanu PF leader, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa reflected typical crocodile antics when he bit two political activists on the eve of Independence Day.

As Mnangagwa, also known as Ngwena spoke of reconciliation, his agents were tormenting Harare political activists Lengwani Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa.

The MDC Alliance has described Mr Mnangagwa as a hypocrite…

See the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights statement below for more information:

On the eve of commemorations to mark the 41st anniversary of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day, Legwan Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa are nursing injuries at Parirenyatwa Hospital sustained after they were tortured while in police detention.

A hospital bedside court session was convened Saturday at Parirenyatwa and the 2 were remanded to Tuesday for continuation of bail application.

A Magistrate ordered the State to investigate complaints of torture as submitted by the duo’s lawyer Webster Jiti…

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights

By A Correspondent| Zengeza West legislator Job Sikhala has been blocked from seeing incarcerated activists Legwani Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa who are being kept at Harare Remand prison.

Sikhala posted on Twitter that when he got there, a prison officer by the name Chibwe told him that Commissioner General of Prisons had ordered that he should be allowed to see them.

“I am at Harare Remand prison bringing food to Legwani Mavhunga & Munyaradzi Mafararikwa who were badly tortured. One prison officer, a Chibwe is saying tht he hs bn told by the Commissioner General of Prisons, Chikobvu not to allow myself to see them. This behavior is abhorrent,” said Sikhala.

Legwani Mavhunga was arrested for showing solidarity to Sikhala was tortured in police custody.

He was reportedly hospitalized after the alleged torture.

Opposition MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa yesterday scoffed at suggestions by President Emmerson Mnangagwa that he was unpatriotic to the country and pandering to the whims of his Western handlers.

Chamisa was responding to Mnangagwa’s Independence eve interview broadcast by the State media on Saturday, where the Zanu-PF leader said unless MDC Alliance members cut their ties with the West, it would be difficult for his administration to recognise them as “proper Zimbabweans”.

Mnangagwa said dialogue with the youthful opposition leader was only possible under the Political Actors Dialogue (Polad) — a platform for all parties which contested the 2018 presidential election.

Chamisa has, however, rubbished Polad as “an illegitimate platform for genuine dialogue”.

He also accused Mnangagwa of ignoring citizens’ calls for a genuine and inclusive government.

“Why is he (Mnangagwa) not friends with progressive nations himself,” Chamisa asked rhetorically.

“Who are his friends? He is busy allocating friends to us, so who are his friends? Why is he giving us all the nations in the world? I want to thank him for elevating, honouring and acknowledging our capacity to build bridges and have warm relations with other nations.

“Our focus is to resolve our issues as Zimbabweans through convergence and building a new consensus to give meaning to our independence and sacrifices of our heroes and heroines who perished for a cause so great.

“Let us build bridges in Zimbabwe and my message to ED is, stop burning bridges, stop being destructive, stop dividing the country, stop hate language and hatred. Don’t be vindictive, don’t be a victim of ageism. We are young but not babies.”

Chamisa said despite winning the 2018 elections and being denied the victory after the results were reportedly manipulated in favour of Mnangagwa, his party was still committed to inclusive and genuine dialogue to resolve the Zimbabwean crisis.

“We have always invited him to smoke the peace pipe, but he is carrying a machete and sjamboks and that is the problem. He thinks every problem is a nail that needs a hammer. Violence has no winner and one thing about violence is that no one has monopoly (over it).

-Newsday

OFFICERS IN CHARGE STATIONS MBARE DISTRICT.

16 April 2021 CONTINUOUS USE OF SPIKES AND SMASHING OF MOTOR VEHICLE CONTINUOUS USE WINDSCREENS BY MEMBERS

Repeated hereunder is Chief Staff Officer [Operations] memorandum number 676/21 dated 10 March 2021 with the above subject.

This Headquarters has noted with great concern continuous use of spikes and smashing of windscreens by members in violation of the laws of the country.
Despite several memoranda sent to districts to desist from such practice, it was observed that members are continuously using spikes with some going to the extent of smashing -windscreens of motor vehicles in order to effect arrests. It should be noted that such practice is unlawful, unacceptable and not condoned by the organization. This exposes the organization to avoidable litigations from affected members of the public. Disciplinary actions will be considered against any members who engage in such unlawful conduct.

In all future elections, there’s no one who’ll have ability to remove Mnangagwa(Shumba Murambwi). We’re holding fort -until the day he decides, the day he has finally straightened Zimbabwe nothing’ll change; so stop dreaming, no one can do that…

Tinashe Sambiri|President Nelson Chamisa has pointed out that the clueless Zanu PF regime is unwilling to implement key national reforms.

President Chamisa also took a swipe at the cornered regime for using draconian laws to thwart democratic processes in the country.

According to President Chamisa, Mr Mnangagwa’s administration is trampling on the fundamental values of the liberation struggle.

The MDC Alliance leader also implored youths in the country to remain optimistic about freedom from Zanu PF oppression.

Watch video below:

Tinashe Sambiri|The MDC Alliance has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Zanu PF party invited sanctions by killing, arresting and torturing perceived political opponents.

In his Independence message on Saturday, Mr Mnangagwa, with the help of gleeful State media reporters, attempted to belittle President Nelson Chamisa.

A visibly unsettled Mr Mnangagwa then went on to accuse President Chamisa and Vice President, Hon Tendai Biti of inviting sanctions from America.

In a statement the MDC Alliance Namibia dismissed Mr Mnangagwa’s remarks as baseless and reckless:

HIGH LEVELS OF HUMAN BUTCHERY, INCESSANT INCARCERATIONS OF HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS AND GROSS MISGOVERNANCE BY CLUELESS ZANUPF INVITED TARGETED SANCTIONS NOT PRESIDENT CHAMISA, MDC ALLIANCE NAMIBIA ECHOES.

18 APRIL 2021

Mdc Alliance Namibia is neither transfixed nor mesmerized by the continued hypocritical stance by the clueless Zanupf President Mr Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s utterances which exhibited his absolute resentment to reform. “Mr Chamisa should denounce his party’s promotion of violence and embrace constructive dialogue on a national platform created to engender peace and unity in the country”, Mr Mnangagwa has said.

His accusation of violence in our party is a clear reflection of his unwillingness to reform. Zanupf’s appetite to continue using state security apparatus to butcher citizens as an excuse of dealing with a violent party becomes concrete since it is now their national religion.

Moreover, in terms of maintaining peace and tranquility in the country, Zanupf cannot claim to be an advocate for such. Instead it must be clear to the universe that Mr Mnangagwa’s party is the one responsible for political, social and economic upheavals in the motherland.

Recently ,through their politically inept Cabinet, they approved the re-establishment of a cult of violence popularly known as the ‘border gezi’, a well known Zanupf militia used to kill, maim, intimidate,harass and frog-march citizens to Zanupf rallies from 2001. Mdc Alliance Namibia is quite aware of Zanupf’s stubbornness manifesting in its satanic intentions to create a One-party state in the motherland using arbitrary arrests and long pre-trial detentions to deter social democrats, that shall be resisted with equal measure.

Mr Mnangagwa went on to say,”opposition players should be patriotic and desist from flying to foreign capitals against the country”. It must be point blank to the citizenry that by definition of patriotism, it is Zanupf that is completely unpatriotic and un-Zimbabwean.

Patriotism is defined as the quality of being patriotic, devolution to and vigorous support for one’s country. Zanupf is an antithesis of patriotism because of the senseless and barefaced corruption practised by the belly politicians in the Zanupf government. Obadiah Moyo stole 60 million Covid-19 funds, Henrietta Rushwaya smuggled gold, Mupfumira stole thousands from Nssa and countless scandals including hefty amounts of state funds not forgetting the astonishing 15 billion from Chiadzwa diamond mine.

Furthermore, on the issue of the targeted sanctions scapegoat, Mdc Alliance Namibia has the conviction that Zanupf should first reform from its autocratic governance to Constitutional Democracy as stipulated in the Zidera of 2001.

It is a public fact that the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act(Zidera)(S 494) is an Act passed by the United States Congress which imposed targeted economic sanctions on Zanupf officials and their enablers, allegedly to provide for a transition to democracy and to promote economic recovery. It is a pathological lie to include our political dynamo, President Advocate Nelson Chamisa because Senators Bill Frist(R-Tennessee) and Russ Reingold (D-Wiscosin) introduced the bill on March 8,2001. The House of representatives passed the bill on December 4.

Pointing our President as the one who invited targeted sanctions is beyond honesty and sanity. The principal purpose of sanctions is usually to change inhuman behaviour of the target country’s sadist regime , individuals or groups in a direction which will improve the situation in that country. All recent UN and EU sanctions contain information why they have been imposed and specify what they aim to achieve. This propaganda from the politically bankrupt, Zanupf President is meant to blackmail our young, astute and pragmatic leader and his vibrant Vice-president, Hon Tendai Biti. It is President Bush who signed it into law on December 21, not our President or our political behemoth. 91%[396 vote] of Congress voting in favour. Only 3%[11votes] voted against Zidera. Zanupf must just reform and promote a democratic dispensation.

In a nutshell, Zanupf must forget that Mdc Alliance will be part of the Polad.

We need a dialogue that is genuine to bring back Constitutional Democracy where the vote of the citizen is respected. Mdc Alliance Namibia urges Mr Mnangagwa to transform his totalitarianism to social democracy. He must stop claiming to be democratic when social democrats are languishing in prisons. Release Hon Joana Mamombe, Cde Makomborero Haruzivishe, Cecilia Chimbiri, Tungamirai Madzokere, Last Maengahama, Vongai Tome, Ngonidzashe Mafumba and all prisoners of conscience.

Mdc Alliance Namibia
Rundu Branch Spokesperson
Robson Ruhanya

Tinashe Sambiri|The MDC Alliance has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Zanu PF party invited sanctions by killing, arresting and torturing perceived political opponents.

In his Independence message on Saturday, Mr Mnangagwa, with the help of gleeful State media reporters, attempted to belittle President Nelson Chamisa.

A visibly unsettled Mr Mnangagwa then went on to accuse President Chamisa and Vice President, Hon Tendai Biti of inviting sanctions from America.

In a statement the MDC Alliance Namibia dismissed Mr Mnangagwa’s remarks as baseless and reckless:

HIGH LEVELS OF HUMAN BUTCHERY, INCESSANT INCARCERATIONS OF HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS AND GROSS MISGOVERNANCE BY CLUELESS ZANUPF INVITED TARGETED SANCTIONS NOT PRESIDENT CHAMISA, MDC ALLIANCE NAMIBIA ECHOES.

18 APRIL 2021

Mdc Alliance Namibia is neither transfixed nor mesmerized by the continued hypocritical stance by the clueless Zanupf President Mr Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s utterances which exhibited his absolute resentment to reform. “Mr Chamisa should denounce his party’s promotion of violence and embrace constructive dialogue on a national platform created to engender peace and unity in the country”, Mr Mnangagwa has said.

His accusation of violence in our party is a clear reflection of his unwillingness to reform. Zanupf’s appetite to continue using state security apparatus to butcher citizens as an excuse of dealing with a violent party becomes concrete since it is now their national religion.

Moreover, in terms of maintaining peace and tranquility in the country, Zanupf cannot claim to be an advocate for such. Instead it must be clear to the universe that Mr Mnangagwa’s party is the one responsible for political, social and economic upheavals in the motherland.

Recently ,through their politically inept Cabinet, they approved the re-establishment of a cult of violence popularly known as the ‘border gezi’, a well known Zanupf militia used to kill, maim, intimidate,harass and frog-march citizens to Zanupf rallies from 2001. Mdc Alliance Namibia is quite aware of Zanupf’s stubbornness manifesting in its satanic intentions to create a One-party state in the motherland using arbitrary arrests and long pre-trial detentions to deter social democrats, that shall be resisted with equal measure.

Mr Mnangagwa went on to say,”opposition players should be patriotic and desist from flying to foreign capitals against the country”. It must be point blank to the citizenry that by definition of patriotism, it is Zanupf that is completely unpatriotic and un-Zimbabwean.

Patriotism is defined as the quality of being patriotic, devolution to and vigorous support for one’s country. Zanupf is an antithesis of patriotism because of the senseless and barefaced corruption practised by the belly politicians in the Zanupf government. Obadiah Moyo stole 60 million Covid-19 funds, Henrietta Rushwaya smuggled gold, Mupfumira stole thousands from Nssa and countless scandals including hefty amounts of state funds not forgetting the astonishing 15 billion from Chiadzwa diamond mine.

Furthermore, on the issue of the targeted sanctions scapegoat, Mdc Alliance Namibia has the conviction that Zanupf should first reform from its autocratic governance to Constitutional Democracy as stipulated in the Zidera of 2001.

It is a public fact that the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act(Zidera)(S 494) is an Act passed by the United States Congress which imposed targeted economic sanctions on Zanupf officials and their enablers, allegedly to provide for a transition to democracy and to promote economic recovery. It is a pathological lie to include our political dynamo, President Advocate Nelson Chamisa because Senators Bill Frist(R-Tennessee) and Russ Reingold (D-Wiscosin) introduced the bill on March 8,2001. The House of representatives passed the bill on December 4.

Pointing our President as the one who invited targeted sanctions is beyond honesty and sanity. The principal purpose of sanctions is usually to change inhuman behaviour of the target country’s sadist regime , individuals or groups in a direction which will improve the situation in that country. All recent UN and EU sanctions contain information why they have been imposed and specify what they aim to achieve. This propaganda from the politically bankrupt, Zanupf President is meant to blackmail our young, astute and pragmatic leader and his vibrant Vice-president, Hon Tendai Biti. It is President Bush who signed it into law on December 21, not our President or our political behemoth. 91%[396 vote] of Congress voting in favour. Only 3%[11votes] voted against Zidera. Zanupf must just reform and promote a democratic dispensation.

In a nutshell, Zanupf must forget that Mdc Alliance will be part of the Polad.

We need a dialogue that is genuine to bring back Constitutional Democracy where the vote of the citizen is respected. Mdc Alliance Namibia urges Mr Mnangagwa to transform his totalitarianism to social democracy. He must stop claiming to be democratic when social democrats are languishing in prisons. Release Hon Joana Mamombe, Cde Makomborero Haruzivishe, Cecilia Chimbiri, Tungamirai Madzokere, Last Maengahama, Vongai Tome, Ngonidzashe Mafumba and all prisoners of conscience.

Mdc Alliance Namibia
Rundu Branch Spokesperson
Robson Ruhanya

Police have launched a manhunt for five suspects who pounced on a house in Glen Lorne, Harare, on Wednesday last week and got away with US$51 000. 

The suspects first held the occupants hostage and later robbed them of cash and other valuables worth thousands of dollars.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident in a statement.

“On April 14, 2021, five unknown suspects stormed a house in Glen Lorne, Harare and held hostage the occupants before robbing them of US$51 000 cash and other valuables all valued at US$56 650,” he said. “Investigations are underway.

“The ZRP reiterates that members of the public must not keep large sums of money in homes or business premises as they risk being robbed.”

Meanwhile, police have arrested Simbarashe Maonera and Nerbson Katsande in connection with an armed robbery which occurred along Glenara Avenue in Harare last week.

The duo was arrested in Mbare. “The ZRP confirm the arrest of Simbarashe Maonera (25) and Nerbson Katsande (49) in connection with armed robbery case which occurred along Glenara Avenue Harare on April 11, 2021 at about 2am,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.

“The victim was blocked by a Toyota Noah AEJ 4593 before being robbed of cash and valuables worth US$5 700. Investigations by police led to the arrest of the duo in Mbare and the recovery of the stolen iPhone.”

In a related incident, police in Mbare, Harare, recovered a stolen blue Mercedes Benz registration number ADL 4916.

The owner had been robbed of the vehicle along Amalinda Road, after he was blocked by a Toyota Vitz vehicle near Churu Farm, before two unknown suspects wielding a knife and stones disembarked and smashed the passenger window.

The victim was robbed of two cellphones, $110, US$900 and the car.- Herald