By Religion Correspondent- A storm is brewing in Zimbabwe’s Pentecostal landscape following explosive allegations against Apostle Talent Chiwenga, leader of Jesus Revelation Ministries (JRM). Once hailed as a bold critic of false prophets and corrupt politicians, Chiwenga now faces serious accusations of adultery, abuse, financial impropriety, and moral hypocrisy—charges that further expose the growing crisis of accountability in Zimbabwe’s burgeoning prophetic church movement.
The claims come from Inno Ngwaru, a former JRM insider and longtime supporter, who recently published an emotionally charged Facebook video responding to a sermon in which Chiwenga attacked another former aide, Edmore Marange. In his tell-all, Ngwaru defends Marange and paints a troubling portrait of Chiwenga as a man who has strayed from the gospel he once preached.
“You slept with a young woman named Trifine, who you brought to South Africa,” Ngwaru alleges. “Someone helps you and you end up sleeping with their daughter. Is this right?” He further claims that Chiwenga used church funds to purchase a personal home and manipulated congregants into silence or exile when they questioned his actions.
Ngwaru also implies that the death of Chiwenga’s late wife, Rejoice, marked a turning point, after which the apostle allegedly began a pattern of abuse and moral decay. “The death of Rejoice was an opportunity,” Ngwaru says ominously, suggesting that it gave Chiwenga cover to pursue extramarital affairs and consolidate power.
The allegations are not new in Zimbabwe’s religious scene, which has seen a rise in self-proclaimed prophets and fly-by-night churches often characterised by authoritarian leadership, prosperity gospel teachings, and cult-like manipulation. From sex scandals to staged miracles and political endorsements, the Pentecostal movement has frequently been rocked by controversy.
Chiwenga himself has positioned his ministry as a moral corrective, criticising high-profile figures like Passion Java and Uebert Angel. Yet, critics now say he is no different. Ngwaru claims the preacher once received a warning from a now-deceased associate, Baloyi, for allegedly sleeping with another man’s wife in Dubai—suggesting a long-standing pattern of misconduct.
More troubling are allegations of spiritual manipulation. “He can send people to kill me today,” Ngwaru says, citing a climate of fear within JRM. “People are around him, but they are not happy.” WhatsApp groups allegedly shut down whenever dissenting opinions are raised. “This is not about bitterness,” Ngwaru insists. “It’s about accountability.”
A year ago, Chiwenga excommunicated Edmore Marange in a public notice accusing him of “strange conduct.” But insiders like Ngwaru now claim Marange was simply a victim of growing unrest within the church. “Marange could preach. You sent him to Rustenburg and Gomba,” he says, dismissing the church’s justification for the dismissal.
Ngwaru also decried Chiwenga’s doctrinal shift, particularly his endorsement of polygamy and degrading remarks about women who cannot bear sons. “The gospel has changed,” Ngwaru laments. “We were made to desert certain behaviours, now we have gone back to them.”
The fallout may be far from over. Chiwenga is reportedly preparing to release audio files in response, but the credibility of his ministry continues to erode. Former members are beginning to speak out, suggesting that the JRM is on the brink of spiritual collapse.
“This isn’t about one man anymore,” said one ex-member. “It’s about a movement that’s losing its soul.”
In a country where desperate citizens seek hope amid economic despair, the unchecked power of charismatic preachers remains a serious concern. As the veil lifts on Chiwenga’s alleged misconduct, the broader question arises: Who holds these men accountable when they stand above church, law, and conscience?
Harare – Finance Secretary George Guvamatanga failed to appear before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday, marking his second consecutive absence and prompting lawmakers to consider issuing summons to compel his attendance.
Kuwadzana MP Charlton Hwende, the committee’s chairperson, stated that Guvamatanga has been given a final opportunity to appear before the panel this Friday.
Failure to comply, Hwende warned, would result in immediate legal summons.
“We have give the secretary and his team a final chance to appear on Friday. We’re preparing summons through the office of the Clerk of Parliament, and if they don’t come, summons will be issued immediately on Friday,” Hwende said.
The committee also intends to summon finance minister Mthuli Ncube to address concerns regarding procedural irregularities in public financial management.
Monday’s session was meant to review the Auditor General’s 2023 annual report, with a particular focus on US$400 million in Treasury payments made directly to suppliers, bypassing relevant ministries.
Among the beneficiaries was Ren-Form CC, a South African firm controversially awarded contracts to supply election materials to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) without a competitive tender process.
South African financial records reveal that Ren-Form received over R1.2 billion from Zimbabwe’s Treasury, with R800 million allegedly funneled into accounts linked to Wicknell Chivayo, a businessman with political ties who has previously faced accusations of bribing officials to secure government contracts.
The committee has further demanded that Guvamatanga provide documentation on direct payments to: Fertilisers Seed Grain (FSG), Ziminya Dam Construction, Ventures Borehole & Exploration, Makomo Engineering, Semwa Dam, Nyika Kanengoni & Partners (a law firm representing ZEC), which received US$600,000.
Hwende emphasized that these transactions appear to violate the Public Finance Management Act, which mandates that supplier payments be processed by respective ministries in accordance with their budgetary allocations.
Instead, the finance ministry has centralized payments, raising allegations of favoritism and corruption, as Guvamatanga unilaterally determines payment prioritization.
By A Correspondent- One of the prominent leaders of the G40 Zanu PF faction that briefly pushed out the then vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2017, Shadreck Mashayamombe, has been readmitted to the party.
President Mnangagwa ordered both his readmission and a probe into what he described as illegal and factional expulsions within the ruling party.
Sources who attended the politburo meeting held last week said that Mnangagwa was incensed by what he called “clandestine” suspensions of party members without due process, accusing unnamed individuals of acting like enemies of the party.
The development comes amid growing tensions within the party’s provincial structures, particularly in Harare and Masvingo, ahead of internal elections set for next year.
G40 Faction Resurgence?
Shadreck Mashayamombe, once a prominent figure in the Generation 40 (G40) faction that backed former First Lady Grace Mugabe and opposed Mnangagwa’s ascendancy in 2017, had been suspended by the Harare provincial leadership led by Godwills Masimirembwa.
G40 was a powerful Zanu PF faction that emerged in the latter years of the Mugabe era. It was composed of younger, urban-based politicians loyal to Mugabe and his wife, Grace, who they saw as his successor. The faction clashed with Mnangagwa’s Lacoste faction, made up largely of liberation war veterans and military-aligned figures. The rivalry culminated in the 2017 military-assisted coup that ousted Robert Mugabe and catapulted Mnangagwa to power, leading to the purging and exile of many G40 leaders, including Saviour Kasukuwere, Jonathan Moyo, and Patrick Zhuwao.
Mashayamombe, a former Harare South MP, was among those sidelined but remained politically active. His re-emergence and Mnangagwa’s intervention signal a possible softening of stance toward some G40 elements, at least those willing to toe the current leadership’s line.
According to Zanu PF’s constitution, Mashayamombe’s status as a cell member means any disciplinary process against him should have been initiated at the branch level. However, the provincial leadership allegedly bypassed these internal procedures.
“The President demanded an investigation into who orchestrated these suspensions,” said a senior politburo member. “He emphasized that Mashayamombe brings value to the party and should not be a victim of factional rumours.”
Sources suggest Masimirembwa viewed Mashayamombe as a threat in the upcoming provincial elections, and the suspension was part of a broader strategy to neutralize political rivals.
Masimirembwa could not be reached for comment.
A Crackdown on Factionalism
Mnangagwa also reversed the expulsion of two members from Masvingo province, underscoring his disapproval of internal purges.
At a press conference following the politburo meeting, Zanu PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa confirmed the President’s strong stance on unity and due process.
“President Mnangagwa was very stern on the issue of expulsions. He believes this could destroy the party,” Mutsvangwa said.
“He does not tolerate clandestine suspensions and expulsions. Zanu PF is a revolutionary party rooted in the people, guided by the principle of leaving no one and no place behind.”
Mutsvangwa added that the party will now favour reprimands over expulsions in a bid to foster internal healing and avoid further divisions.
“Rather than removing members, the party opted for reprimands where necessary. This reflects the President’s leadership style — focused on strengthening the party from within,” Mutsvangwa said.
With next year’s provincial elections drawing closer, Mnangagwa’s move appears to be a calculated effort to consolidate unity within Zanu PF and rein in rogue elements within the provincial structures. However, observers note that the re-admission of G40-linked figures could spark renewed tensions within the deeply factionalised party.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A long-time former follower of Apostle Talent Chiwenga has issued a blistering public statement challenging the controversial preacher’s moral authority and questioning the integrity of his leadership over Jesus Revelation Ministries (JRM).
The man, who identifies himself on Facebook as Inno Ngwaru, released a counterattack in response to a three-hour-long sermon by Chiwenga targeting ex-pastor Edmore Marange. Ngwaru’s statement, raw and emotionally charged, not only defends Marange but delivers explosive allegations against Chiwenga—ranging from sexual misconduct and financial impropriety to manipulation, spiritual abuse, and hypocrisy.
“You Slept With Trifine, You Bought a House With Church Money”
Inno Ngwaru
Ngwaru accuses Chiwenga of abandoning the teachings he once upheld in favour of autocracy and personal indulgence. Among the most damning accusations, Ngwaru claims that the preacher had sexual relationships with multiple women in his inner circle, including a young woman named Trifine, whom he allegedly brought to South Africa.
“You slept with a young woman called Trifine, who you brought to South Africa… someone helps you and then you sleep with their daughter,” Ngwaru states. “The question is, is this right?”
He further alleges that Chiwenga misused church funds to acquire a personal residence. “Church money—you converted it to purchase a house for yourself,” Ngwaru declares, adding that dissenting voices within the church are either silenced or expelled.
“The Death of Rejoice Was an Opportunity”
In a deeply personal recollection, Ngwaru reflects on Chiwenga’s late wife, Rejoice Chiwenga, suggesting that her death marked a turning point in the preacher’s conduct and behaviour. He also implicates Chiwenga in a long-standing history of toxic relationships and personal betrayal, citing numerous personal encounters and testimonies from individuals close to the church.
He accuses Chiwenga of moral double standards: “When Chiwenga says a man must behave in this way, it is not the way he behaves… I was so involved in these things. In the formative stages I contributed big time.”
Ngwaru also alleges that Chiwenga was warned by one Baloyi, a now-deceased church associate, about repeated sexual misconduct—specifically sleeping with another man’s wife in Dubai.
“He Can Send People to Kill Me Today”
The former member accuses Chiwenga of bullying dissenters and building a fear-driven structure around his ministry. “He can send people to kill me today, but the important thing is these are the issues,” Ngwaru says. “People who are around you are not even happy.”
He claims many insiders are aware of the misconduct but remain silent due to fear or loyalty, stating: “There is no one who is holy… People are sitting on the fence right now. WhatsApp groups being shut down whenever they are opened.”
Ngwaru also questions Chiwenga’s treatment of other critics: “You said Nelson is a mad person. Now people watching you end up asking… if this is how you treat everyone who disagrees.”
Dismissal of Edmore Marange Revisited
The public fallout comes a year after Chiwenga dismissed his longtime aide, Edmore Marange, citing “strange conduct” and “personal endeavours” inconsistent with Christian leadership.
In “Public Notice 1 of 2024,” JRM formally excommunicated Marange. At the time, the church accused him of straying from “sound doctrine,” but critics said the expulsion coincided with growing unrest in the church over Chiwenga’s radical teachings and mounting scandals.
Ngwaru refutes the narrative that Marange was incompetent or unfaithful, asserting: “Those in the know they know—Marange could not preach? Marange preached. You sent him to Rustenberg and Gomba.”
Pattern of Allegations and Doctrinal Drift
Chiwenga has previously drawn backlash for his controversial teachings—such as advocating for polygamy and extramarital threesomes under the guise of biblical interpretation.
He once argued that a woman who fails to produce a male child should not object if her husband seeks another wife: “A woman who hasn’t borne a son owes her husband,” he said in one sermon.
Ngwaru says these sermons mark a complete departure from the moral code Chiwenga once enforced. “The gospel has changed,” he laments. “We were made to desert certain behaviours, now we have gone back to them.”
“This Fight is Deep”
In closing, Ngwaru declares that his statement was not motivated by bitterness but by a need for accountability: “I never wanted to be your enemy… What I am asking is just answer these things.”
He warns that this is only the beginning of a protracted reckoning: “This fight is going to be a bruising one. When I started these LIVES I did it knowing the consequences.”
Fallout
The new revelations threaten to further erode the already fragile credibility of Apostle Chiwenga and Jesus Revelation Ministries. While Chiwenga is expected to respond, likely with the release of alleged incriminating audio files as Ngwaru predicts, the internal unrest in the church appears to be escalating.
“This isn’t about one man anymore,” a former congregant told ZimEye. “It’s about a movement that’s losing its soul.”
As more voices emerge from within JRM, it remains to be seen whether Chiwenga can maintain control—or if his once-celebrated ministry will implode under the weight of scandal, dissent, and spiritual disillusionment.
By A Correspondent-Controversial businessman and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo has resurfaced in the international spotlight after being named in the memoir of notorious British mercenary and former SAS officer Simon Francis Mann—a man once jailed for attempting to overthrow the government of Equatorial Guinea.
In Cry Havoc, his dramatic account of life in the shadows of global warfare, Mann describes sharing prison time with Chivayo, calling him “a smart chap.” However, this curious link between the flamboyant Zimbabwean tycoon and an international terrorist has since been quietly scrubbed from the public domain.
A since-deleted 2016 Sunday Mail article once sensationally claimed that Chivayo helped plot a hijacked plane escape for Mann from Zimbabwe’s Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison—an allegation that now sits on the boundary between fact and folklore.
Mann and 69 others were arrested on 7 March 2004 in Zimbabwe when their Boeing 727 was seized by security forces during a stop-off at Harare’s airport to be loaded with £100,000 worth of weapons and equipment.
This was the same time Chivayo was serving his fraud jail term.
Mann, who died last week at the age of 72, collapsed while exercising—an anticlimactic end to a life spent at the volatile intersection of money, militarism, and political subterfuge.
After serving in the British Army, Mann co-founded Sandline International, a private military firm notorious for murky operations in Angola, Sierra Leone, and Papua New Guinea. His name was cemented in African history with the 2004 “Wonga Coup”, a brazen plot to depose Equatorial Guinea’s longtime dictator Teodoro Obiang Nguema and replace him with exiled politician Severo Moto Nsá.
Backed by high-level financiers—including Mark Thatcher, son of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher—the mercenaries’ plot was unravelled when their Boeing 727 landed in Harare to refuel and collect weapons from Zimbabwe Defence Industries. It was a fatal miscalculation.
Zimbabwe’s feared Central Intelligence Organisation, operating at the peak of President Robert Mugabe’s authoritarian rule, arrested Mann and 64 others—mostly veterans of South Africa’s notorious 32 Buffalo Battalion—before they could leave the tarmac.
The botched coup became a diplomatic windfall for Mugabe, who leveraged the arrest to solidify Zimbabwe’s alliance with Equatorial Guinea. To this day, Zimbabwe remains one of Obiang’s few close African allies—a loyalty marked by Mnangagwa’s solo attendance at Obiang’s 2022 inauguration and the mysterious gifting of a mansion in Malabo to the Zimbabwean state.
While Mugabe’s spies were efficient in protecting a foreign dictator, they were equally ruthless in stifling internal dissent. The same intelligence services that busted an international coup have long been accused of abducting activists, torturing critics, and harassing journalists back home.
Chivayo’s alleged proximity to Mann adds yet another controversial layer to his checkered reputation—one marked by lavish spending, political patronage, and criminal convictions.
Mann would later be extradited to Equatorial Guinea’s infamous Black Beach Prison, notorious for its torture chambers and inhumane conditions.
The legacy of that failed coup still haunts regional diplomacy—and now, unexpectedly pulls Chivayo’s name back into the shadows of global intrigue.
While Mugabe’s regime is long gone, the machinery of surveillance and repression remains intact. And for citizens, the line between protector and persecutor continues to blur in a state where truth is a threat, and silence is often safer than speech.
By A Correspondent- notorious British mercenary and former SAS officer who once attempted to overthrow the government of Equatorial Guinea, Simon Francis Mann, has died.
He was 72.
Mann reportedly collapsed while exercising—an anticlimactic end for a man whose life was spent navigating the murky intersection of power, money, and militarism.
After his service in the British army, Mann co-founded Sandline International with fellow ex-Colonel Tim Spicer in 1996.
The private military company operated extensively in conflict zones such as Angola and Sierra Leone.
However, Sandline’s dealings weren’t always subtle.
Their contract in Papua New Guinea, which triggered the infamous Sandline Affair, exposed the emerging business of privatized warfare and the deep entanglements between Western interests and fragile post-colonial states.
Mann’s name became permanently etched in African history with the 2004 “Wonga Coup”, a daring plan to overthrow Teodoro Obiang Nguema, the long-ruling dictator of Equatorial Guinea.
The plan was as bold as it was reckless—an attempted coup financed by powerful interests, including Mark Thatcher, son of the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
The plot aimed to install exiled politician Severo Moto Nsá as president in place of Nguema.
But fate, or perhaps hubris, led the conspirators to make a fatal logistical stop in Harare, Zimbabwe, to refuel their Boeing 727 and collect arms bought from Zimbabwe Defence Industries.
That decision changed everything.
Zimbabwe’s intelligence services under President Robert Mugabe, then at the height of his power, were swift and merciless.
Mann and 64 mercenaries—largely veterans of South Africa’s apartheid-era 32 Buffalo Battalion—were arrested before they could leave the tarmac.
The same intelligence machine that once violently suppressed domestic dissent—through abductions, torture, and surveillance—was remarkably alert and effective when it came to defending allies and interests abroad.
This operation became a feather in Mugabe’s cap. His intervention not only cemented a political alliance with Obiang Nguema—who has now ruled Equatorial Guinea since 1979—but also demonstrated the reach and efficiency of Zimbabwe’s secret services when defending the regime’s foreign policy interests.
Unfortunately, this same intelligence structure has historically been used to crush internal opposition and civil liberties at home, treating critical citizens not as compatriots but as enemies of the state.
Mann was sentenced to prison in Zimbabwe, where he was held at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison before being extradited to Black Beach Prison in Equatorial Guinea, a facility notorious for torture and inhumane conditions.
In his memoir, Mann mentions sharing time behind bars with Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, describing him as “a smart chap.”
A since-deleted Sunday Mail story from 2016 claimed that Chivayo even plotted to organize a hijacked plane to facilitate Mann’s escape—a story that now borders on folklore.
Though the coup was thwarted, its consequences continue to ripple through Zimbabwe’s foreign policy.
When Obiang Nguema was inaugurated for yet another seven-year term in December 2022, President Emmerson Mnangagwa was the only Southern African leader in attendance. Zimbabwe’s relationship with Equatorial Guinea remains unusually warm—thanks in large part to Mugabe’s timely intervention in 2004.
The Zimbabwean government was even gifted a luxurious mansion in Malabo, a diplomatic token that must now be protected from those known to convert state resources into personal assets.
The irony, of course, is not lost. Mugabe, who once spoke of democracy and liberation, presided over one of Africa’s most repressive intelligence networks—skilled at monitoring citizens, abducting activists, and crushing dissent.
While his spies acted swiftly to protect Obiang from mercenaries, they remained complicit in the systemic persecution of journalists, students, and opposition figures in Zimbabwe.
Interestingly, Obiang himself rose to power by executing his own uncle, the tyrannical Francisco Macías Nguema, in 1979.
Macías ruled Equatorial Guinea with brutal cruelty—so much so that, by comparison, even Mugabe’s own legacy of political violence and repression seems modest.
As some have said, “Mugabe couldn’t qualify to tie Macías’ shoes when it comes to diabolic politics.”
And yet, the difference may be in method, not intention.
Mugabe’s intelligence state was as paranoid as it was brutal—obsessed with controlling not just power, but truth itself.
For those who dared oppose the regime, Zimbabwe was and still is a place where the walls had ears, and the price of dissent was/is often paid in blood.
The United States plans to slash $555 million in contributions to the African Development Bank’s main aid fund, the African Development Fund (ADF), marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid policy under the Trump administration.
According to a senior official in Washington, D.C., the proposed cuts are part of a broader effort to “reassess and realign U.S. foreign assistance with core national interests.”
The official said, “The ADF does not reflect the strategic priorities of this administration moving forward. We’re focusing on bilateral initiatives that yield measurable results.”
A proposal sent to Congress outlines the administration’s intention to halt U.S. contributions to the ADF by 2026. The fund, which supports low-income African countries, is entering the final year of its current $8.9 billion, three-year funding cycle. In October 2024, African member countries had lobbied for a dramatic increase to $25 billion, a figure now in jeopardy.
The U.S., the fund’s second-largest donor since it began supporting the ADF in 1976, would leave a significant gap in the donor pool. While some other countries have scaled back, none have proposed such a steep withdrawal.
A source from the U.S. Treasury Department stated, “It’s time for other donor countries and institutions to step up. We’re not abandoning development efforts, but we are demanding more efficiency and burden-sharing.”
Alongside the ADF cut, the administration’s budget also calls for the closure.
MWOS remain top of the table with 23 points, holding a slim one-point lead over second-placed Scottland. Scottland climbed into contention after a convincing 2-0 victory over Simba Bhora, moving to 22 points and tightening the title race.
Despite the loss, Simba Bhora maintain third position with 19 points. Highlanders, following a 1-1 stalemate with FC Platinum, are just one point behind in fourth place with 18 points. TelOne and Ngezi Platinum Stars both sit on 17 points, occupying fifth and sixth places respectively as the mid-table battle intensifies.
At the bottom end, pressure continues to mount for Dynamos, Triangle United, and Kwekwe United. Dynamos’ 2-0 loss to Triangle United leaves them in 16th place on 8 points. Triangle, now also on 8 points, move up to 17th, while Kwekwe United remain anchored to the bottom with 7 points after falling 4-2 to Chicken Inn.
With only a few points separating the top contenders and the relegation fight heating up, the league remains finely balanced heading into the next round.
A young Zimbabwean journalist, Takudzwa Gift Washaya, has reportedly been kidnapped and severely assaulted in what is being described as a politically motivated attack. The Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) confirmed the incident via a public statement issued on Tuesday morning.
According to the CCC, Washaya was abducted from his home in Sunningdale, Harare, by armed men driving a black Toyota GD6. He was allegedly injected with an unknown substance, violently beaten, and left with serious injuries.
Photos released by the party show the young journalist unconscious and visibly battered, with swelling and bruises on his face and body. The CCC said the assault stemmed from a false political accusation, though further details have not yet been released.
“We strongly condemn this behavior,” the party said in its statement. “Journalists must be protected, not targeted for doing their job.”
The attack has sparked outrage on social media, with human rights advocates and opposition leaders calling for an immediate investigation. Press freedom groups have also voiced concern, warning that such acts are part of a growing pattern of violence and intimidation against journalists in Zimbabwe.
As of this report, no arrests have been made and the identity of the attackers remains unknown. Washaya is reportedly receiving medical care for his injuries.
This incident adds to mounting fears over the safety of media professionals in the country, particularly those covering sensitive political matters.
A Harare woman has sought urgent protection from the courts after her ex-husband allegedly threatened to kill their child and take his own life — all because she plans to remarry just weeks after their divorce. The dramatic revelations unfolded in a packed courtroom, laying bare a disturbing case of post-divorce obsession, emotional abuse, and looming danger that has gripped the local community with fear.
A Harare man has reportedly threatened to kill his own child and take his life following the news that his ex-wife is planning to remarry just a month after their separation, a local court heard on Tuesday.
Kelly Mupani appeared before Harare Civil Court magistrate Meenal Narotam seeking a protection order against her former partner, Steven Kambeva, whom she accused of issuing death threats and emotionally tormenting her since their recent divorce.
Mupani told the court that Kambeva had been stalking her at her new residence, confronting her over her intention to marry another man, and threatening to harm their child in a bid to stop the wedding.
“He is failing to accept that things ended between us and he is disturbing me by coming to my new place of residence threatening to kill our child because he found out that I am planning on getting married again,” she told the court.
“It’s been almost a month now since we separated and he has been showing up at my house unannounced to insult me. He says he will stab our child with a knife and commit suicide afterwards,” she added.
Mupani pleaded with the court for protection, citing intense fear for both her life and her child’s safety.
In response, Kambeva denied the allegations, claiming he had never made such threats and had no objection to the issuance of a protection order. “She is lying before the court. I have never threatened her in any way or to kill our child. I have no issues with the court granting her the protection order,” he said.
Magistrate Narotam ruled in favour of Mupani, ordering Kambeva to cease visiting his ex-wife’s residence and to refrain from making any insults, threats, or contact with her going forward.
The matter highlights growing concerns over post-divorce domestic threats and the welfare of children in volatile separations. Police and child protection services are expected to monitor the situation.
Husband of Socialite Mai Jeremiah Breaks Silence on Sexual Assault Case
Harare – 12 May 2025
By Dorrothy Moyo | The husband of popular social media personality Mai Jeremiah has issued a heartfelt public statement confirming that his wife, real name Ashly, is a survivor of sexual assault and that the matter is now before the courts.
In the emotional note shared under the banner Ngoma Republic, he expressed deep frustration over the judgment and character attacks directed at his wife in the wake of the revelations.
“Indeed, my wife Ashly (Mai Jeremiah) was sexually violated, and the matter is before the courts,” he said. “I have noted with concern how many people have decided to judge and assassinate Ashly’s character based on the skits she makes… the person you see as Mai Jeremiah is a work character.”
The couple has been married for eight years and share three children. Describing Ashly as a loyal wife and mother, he rejected accusations that she could have been lured into compromising behaviour, stating that she had always rejected inappropriate advances from powerful individuals.
He added, “You could have hidden all this, but you decided to openly talk about it even though you knew it was going to negatively affect your career… Whether we win or lose just know that your husband and the whole family believe you.”
The statement has sparked widespread conversation across social media, as supporters rally behind the comedian amid growing calls for justice and accountability.
Trump questioned on the arrival of Afrikaner refugees in the U.S. calls it what the media won’t. “It’s a genocide. What’s happening to them in South Africa is horrible, and nobody wants to talk about it.
BREAKING: Trump questioned on the arrival of Afrikaner refugees in the U.S. calls it what the media won’t. “It’s a genocide. What’s happening to them in South Africa is horrible, and nobody wants to talk about it. pic.twitter.com/q69uHm6Q9E
By A Correspondent-President Emmerson Mnangagwa reversed the suspension of prominent G40-linked figure Shadreck Mashayamombe and ordered a probe into what he described as illegal and factional expulsions within the ruling party.
Sources who attended the politburo meeting held last week said that Mnangagwa was incensed by what he called “clandestine” suspensions of party members without due process, accusing unnamed individuals of acting like enemies of the party.
The development comes amid growing tensions within the party’s provincial structures, particularly in Harare and Masvingo, ahead of internal elections set for next year.
G40 Faction Resurgence?
Shadreck Mashayamombe, once a prominent figure in the Generation 40 (G40) faction that backed former First Lady Grace Mugabe and opposed Mnangagwa’s ascendancy in 2017, had been suspended by the Harare provincial leadership led by Godwills Masimirembwa.
G40 was a powerful Zanu PF faction that emerged in the latter years of the Mugabe era. It was composed of younger, urban-based politicians loyal to Mugabe and his wife, Grace, who they saw as his successor. The faction clashed with Mnangagwa’s Lacoste faction, made up largely of liberation war veterans and military-aligned figures. The rivalry culminated in the 2017 military-assisted coup that ousted Robert Mugabe and catapulted Mnangagwa to power, leading to the purging and exile of many G40 leaders, including Saviour Kasukuwere, Jonathan Moyo, and Patrick Zhuwao.
Mashayamombe, a former Harare South MP, was among those sidelined but remained politically active. His re-emergence and Mnangagwa’s intervention signal a possible softening of stance toward some G40 elements, at least those willing to toe the current leadership’s line.
According to Zanu PF’s constitution, Mashayamombe’s status as a cell member means any disciplinary process against him should have been initiated at the branch level. However, the provincial leadership allegedly bypassed these internal procedures.
“The President demanded an investigation into who orchestrated these suspensions,” said a senior politburo member. “He emphasized that Mashayamombe brings value to the party and should not be a victim of factional rumours.”
Sources suggest Masimirembwa viewed Mashayamombe as a threat in the upcoming provincial elections, and the suspension was part of a broader strategy to neutralize political rivals.
Masimirembwa could not be reached for comment.
A Crackdown on Factionalism
Mnangagwa also reversed the expulsion of two members from Masvingo province, underscoring his disapproval of internal purges.
At a press conference following the politburo meeting, Zanu PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa confirmed the President’s strong stance on unity and due process.
“President Mnangagwa was very stern on the issue of expulsions. He believes this could destroy the party,” Mutsvangwa said.
“He does not tolerate clandestine suspensions and expulsions. Zanu PF is a revolutionary party rooted in the people, guided by the principle of leaving no one and no place behind.”
Mutsvangwa added that the party will now favour reprimands over expulsions in a bid to foster internal healing and avoid further divisions.
“Rather than removing members, the party opted for reprimands where necessary. This reflects the President’s leadership style — focused on strengthening the party from within,” Mutsvangwa said.
With next year’s provincial elections drawing closer, Mnangagwa’s move appears to be a calculated effort to consolidate unity within Zanu PF and rein in rogue elements within the provincial structures. However, observers note that the re-admission of G40-linked figures could spark renewed tensions within the deeply factionalised party.
Harare man up for raping minister’s daughter and friend
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A Harare man has been dragged to court on allegations of raping an intoxicated cabinet minister’s daughter and her friend.
The incident allegedly tool place on May 7 this year.
The suspect Prince Dzingai appeared before Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa who advised him to seek bail at the High Court.
It is alleged that on the day, the minister’s daughter her friend and Dzingai went to Robert Mugabe International Airport to drop her aunt around midday.
On their way the trio were drinking vodka.
After dropping the relative the three then decided to go to Dzingai’s house.
They wanted to return to the airport around 7pm to pick the minister’s wife.
“When they were going to the accused’s house the complainant was seated in the back seat as Dzingai allegedly encouraged her to drink more beer so that she would not be sad,” reads court papers.
When they reached Dzingai’s house, she was already drunk.
Dzingai allegedly kept on en couraging her to drink more until she became excessively drunk.
The court heard Dzingai then told the complainant that he liked her.
The three went out to buy some brandy and an energy drink which Dzingai allegedly spiked.
“She noticed it had a funny taste.”
“The complainant then went blank but she remembers going to the toilet to change her pad.
“The complainant remembers that she saw the accused on top of her her,” further reads court papers.
Prosecutor Shambudzeni Fungura further alleged that Dzingai took off the complainant’s skirt and underwear.
The complainant allegedly told Dzingai that she was on her periods but he didn’t care.
It is alleged that she raped the minister’s daughter twice and also her friend twice.
ANALYSIS: How Much More of Zimbabwe’s Land Was Bartered in Mnangagwa’s Latest Belarus Visit?
By Correspondent | ZimEye | 12 May 2025
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s latest state visit to Belarus, as proudly announced on his official page, rekindles memories of controversial land-for-deals diplomacy that has defined much of his foreign policy in recent years. While the post paints a picture of “deepened collaboration” between Zimbabwe and Belarus, many Zimbabweans are asking a sharper question: what did Mnangagwa give away this time?
The 2019 Precedent: Buses for a Province
In 2019, Mnangagwa’s government struck a deal with Belarus in which an estimated 700 ZUPCO buses were delivered — in return for land allocations reportedly equivalent to the size of Mutare. While officials claimed it was a development partnership, insiders and land rights experts widely condemned the deal as a monumental betrayal of national assets for short-term optics.
I have arrived in Minsk, Belarus, for a State Visit, where I was warmly received by Deputy Prime Minister Karankevich Viktor Mikhailovich, Foreign Minister Ryzhenkov Maxim Vladimirovich, and senior officials from both governments. This visit reaffirms the strong relationship between Zimbabwe and Belarus. I look forward to fruitful engagements that will further deepen collaboration. #Zimbabwe #Belarus #StateVisit
It didn’t stop there. In the same period, Mnangagwa infamously offered U.S. President Donald Trump a chunk of Victoria Falls’ ancestral land — a gesture that had no economic logic and reeked of desperation for foreign approval.
Carbon Credits or Carbon Crimes?
In the years since, thousands more hectares have been leased or granted to Gulf-based firms under the label of “carbon credit” projects — schemes that critics argue are nothing more than disguised land grabs. These arrangements often operate without parliamentary approval or transparency, placing critical ecological and cultural zones under foreign control for decades.
The Al Jazeera Sting
In 2021, Mnangagwa was exposed in the Al Jazeera Gold Mafia investigation where he and his associates nearly traded more of Victoria Falls for vague promises from undercover journalists posing as investors. That attempt, halted only by media exposure, highlighted a worrying pattern: land for loyalty, land for illusions of investment, land for nothing.
What Did Minsk Get This Time?
While no official figures have yet been released from the current Belarus visit, the pattern is too familiar to ignore. Based on previous transactions — such as the 700 buses exchanged for land — one might reasonably estimate that another 10,000 to 20,000 hectares could have quietly changed hands behind closed doors in Minsk.
That’s nearly twice the size of Harare. At an estimated commercial land value of US$3,000 per hectare (a conservative figure in Victoria Falls or eastern Zimbabwe), this means a potential transfer of assets worth US$30–60 million could have occurred — in return for yet another token infrastructure promise, like tractors or fire engines.
A Country for Sale?
The optics of Mnangagwa’s photo-op in Minsk are clear: smiling faces, waving flags, and words like “collaboration.” But behind the curtains, Zimbabweans must ask: what price is their land paying for these trips? In a nation where poverty is deepening and services are collapsing, the giveaway of ancestral and national lands to foreign interests — often for peanuts — is not collaboration. It’s surrender.
The true cost of this visit may only be known years from now — when generations find they have no land left to call their own.
———
A History of Controversial Land Deals
1. 2019 Belarus Deal:
In 2019, Mnangagwa’s administration reportedly transferred land equivalent to the size of Mutare—approximately 16,700 hectares—to Belarus in exchange for 700 ZUPCO buses. However, reports indicate that many of these buses have since broken down, raising questions about the value and sustainability of the deal.
2. Victoria Falls Offer to Trump:
Mnangagwa publicly offered land near Victoria Falls to then-U.S. President Donald Trump for the construction of a golf course, aiming to attract foreign investment. This move was met with criticism, as it involved offering a national park area rich in wildlife to a foreign leader.
3. Carbon Credit Agreements:
In 2023, Zimbabwe entered into a deal with UAE-based company Blue Carbon, granting them conservation rights over 7.5 million hectares of forest land—about 20% of the country’s landmass—for carbon credit projects. While the deal was touted to bring in $1.5 billion, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency and the actual benefits to local communities.
4. Al Jazeera’s 2021 Investigation:
An undercover investigation by ZimEye and Al Jazeera in 2021 revealed that Mnangagwa’s ambassador-at-large, Uebert Angel, offered to facilitate the laundering of millions of dollars through gold smuggling schemes. The investigation highlighted the potential for high-level corruption and misuse of national resources.
Estimating the Impact of the Latest Belarus Visit
While specific details of the recent Belarus visit remain undisclosed, historical patterns suggest the possibility of further land concessions. If we consider the 2019 deal as a benchmark—where approximately 16,700 hectares were exchanged for buses—it is plausible that similar or larger tracts of land could have been involved in the latest agreements.
Assuming a conservative estimate of 20,000 hectares at an average land value of $3,000 per hectare, the potential value of land exchanged could be around $60 million. However, without transparency and official disclosures, the exact figures remain speculative.
Visualizing the Land Allocations
To better understand the scale and distribution of these land deals, the following map provides a visual representation:
Note: The map illustrates Zimbabwe’s geographical layout, including major cities and regions. Specific land deal locations are not marked due to the lack of publicly available detailed information.
The recurring theme of trading significant portions of Zimbabwe’s land for foreign investments with questionable returns raises concerns about the long-term implications for national sovereignty and economic stability. As these deals often lack transparency and public consultation, there is a growing need for accountability and scrutiny to ensure that the nation’s resources are managed in the best interest of its citizens.
For further reading and detailed reports on these issues, consider the following sources:
Ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s 4–2 loss to Borussia Dortmund over the weekend, Xabi Alonso confirmed he will step down as head coach at the end of the current season. The former Spanish international has long been linked with a return to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a successful stint as a player.
According to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Alonso has now reached a full agreement to become Real Madrid’s next head coach. He is expected to sign a contract that runs through 2028 and will take over from current manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
Alonso took the reins at Leverkusen in October 2022 and led the club to a historic domestic double in his first full season. Despite their upcoming fixture against Mainz, Leverkusen are guaranteed a second-place finish in the Bundesliga, trailing only champions Bayern Munich.
Zimbabwe’s Parliament is facing mounting criticism after it emerged that legislators are owed over US$600,000 in unpaid sitting allowances, a backlog that stretches across eight months.
A government source confirmed on Monday that economic turmoil and delays in funding processes have left Members of Parliament without their entitled payments. Legislators, who are supposed to receive US$75 per sitting, say the failure to disburse their allowances is affecting their ability to meet basic financial obligations.
“The country’s legislators are owed over US$600,000 in unpaid sitting allowances spanning over the last eight months,” the source revealed. “Many MPs are now failing to meet their obligations such as paying their bills and utilities.”
The delays have sparked discontent among lawmakers, some of whom argue that the financial strain is compromising their ability to serve effectively. Although Parliament has not issued an official statement, internal discussions suggest that the crisis is linked to broader economic challenges affecting public sector financing.
Analysts warn that unless the issue is resolved urgently, it could disrupt legislative work and morale within Parliament.
The matter is expected to feature prominently in upcoming parliamentary debates.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s busy international travel schedule shows no sign of slowing down, as he clocked more hours in the air this past week with back-to-back visits to Russia and Belarus.
Fresh off a visit to Moscow, Mnangagwa landed in Minsk, Belarus, on Sunday for an official state visit aimed at deepening trade and political ties.
According to a government statement, “The President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Minsk, Belarus for an official visit.
He was welcomed by the Belarus Deputy Prime Minister Mr Karankevich Viktor Mikhailovich, Foreign Minister Ryzhenkov Maxim, and several Zimbabwean government ministers, as well as Zimbabwe’s consular Zingman Alexander and young Zimbabwean students studying in Belarus.”
The statement added, “The President’s visit is packed as the two countries scale up trade relations, capitalising on excellent political relations between the two republics.”
While the government promotes the trip as a strategic diplomatic and economic engagement, critics have questioned the timing and value of Mnangagwa’s frequent international travels, especially given the country’s mounting domestic challenges.
Zimbabwe continues to struggle with a deteriorating healthcare system, inflation, and widespread poverty. Many see the President’s travels as out of touch with the lived realities of ordinary citizens.
“Let’s hope Mnangagwa is seeking support to boost the ailing health system,” said Stephen Sarkozy Chuma, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) youth assembly spokesperson. “Our hospitals are underfunded, doctors are leaving the country, and people can’t even access basic treatment.”
While the outcomes of the Belarus visit remain to be seen, pressure is growing for Mnangagwa to prioritise pressing issues at home amid criticism that his globetrotting comes with little benefit to struggling Zimbabweans.
Controversial businessman and ZANU PF-linked tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has once again sparked public outrage after posting a picture of himself wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the letter “B,” boasting of his wealth while millions of Zimbabweans continue to endure economic hardship.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms over the weekend, Chivayo wrote: “OUTBOUND… Take note the ‘B’ is for the inevitable BILLIONAIRE status that’s coming my way AGAINST ALL ODDS… Maka tangirwa ne dare REGERAI VAKOMANA…”
The message, filled with bravado, suggested that Chivayo believes his rise to immense wealth is unstoppable and immune to public scrutiny or criticism.
His comments have struck a nerve with many Zimbabweans who are grappling with soaring inflation, unemployment, and a deteriorating healthcare system. With the cost of living rising daily and basic services in decline, Chivayo’s flamboyant display of wealth has been widely condemned as insensitive and out of touch.
A political analyst said, “Chivayo’s comments reflect the arrogance of elites who benefit from state-linked contracts while ordinary citizens can’t even afford bread or access decent medical care.”
Many critics also accuse Chivayo of flaunting ill-gotten wealth, gained through opaque government deals, including controversial energy contracts that have yielded little in terms of results but reportedly paid out millions.
“People are suffering, and instead of showing humility or social responsibility, he’s out here bragging about billions,” one social media user wrote in response.
“It’s not just tone-deaf—it’s provocative.”
Despite mounting criticism, Chivayo appears unfazed and defiant, implying that no force or authority can derail his path to wealth and status.
His post ended with a bold message to critics: “Regerai vakomana”
As Zimbabweans continue to question the source and purpose of such extravagant displays of wealth, calls are growing for greater transparency and accountability from those who profit while the rest of the nation struggles.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s busy international travel schedule shows no sign of slowing down, as he clocked more hours in the air this past week with back-to-back visits to Russia and Belarus.
Fresh off a visit to Moscow, Mnangagwa landed in Minsk, Belarus, on Sunday for an official state visit aimed at deepening trade and political ties.
According to a government statement, “The President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Minsk, Belarus for an official visit.
He was welcomed by the Belarus Deputy Prime Minister Mr Karankevich Viktor Mikhailovich, Foreign Minister Ryzhenkov Maxim, and several Zimbabwean government ministers, as well as Zimbabwe’s consular Zingman Alexander and young Zimbabwean students studying in Belarus.”
The statement added, “The President’s visit is packed as the two countries scale up trade relations, capitalising on excellent political relations between the two republics.”
While the government promotes the trip as a strategic diplomatic and economic engagement, critics have questioned the timing and value of Mnangagwa’s frequent international travels, especially given the country’s mounting domestic challenges.
Zimbabwe continues to struggle with a deteriorating healthcare system, inflation, and widespread poverty. Many see the President’s travels as out of touch with the lived realities of ordinary citizens.
“Let’s hope Mnangagwa is seeking support to boost the ailing health system,” said Stephen Sarkozy Chuma, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) youth assembly spokesperson. “Our hospitals are underfunded, doctors are leaving the country, and people can’t even access basic treatment.”
While the outcomes of the Belarus visit remain to be seen, pressure is growing for Mnangagwa to prioritise pressing issues at home amid criticism that his globetrotting comes with little benefit to struggling Zimbabweans.
Zimbabwe’s opposition leader, Advocate Nelson Chamisa, has expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening healthcare system, calling for urgent reforms and visionary leadership to restore dignity and efficiency to the nation’s hospitals.
In a statement released on Monday, Chamisa emphasized that hospitals should serve as sanctuaries of healing and rejuvenation rather than symbols of decay and neglect. He painted a hopeful vision of modernized healthcare institutions, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, positioning Zimbabwe as a potential hub for medical tourism in Africa.
“Just imagine our hospitals being equipped with the latest technologies and modern equipment. Our hospitals being places of healing and revitalization,” Chamisa wrote. He stressed that achieving first-class health facilities is not a technical impossibility but a leadership imperative. “The tone is set at the top. A country takes the shape of its leadership,” he added.
Chamisa’s remarks come amid a protracted crisis in Zimbabwe’s public healthcare sector, characterized by underfunded hospitals, chronic drug shortages, and the mass exodus of medical professionals seeking better working conditions abroad. For many Zimbabweans, accessing basic healthcare remains a daily struggle, with dilapidated facilities and understaffing compounding the challenges.
The opposition leader believes that with the right leadership and political will, Zimbabwe can transform its ailing health sector into one of excellence. “Zimbabwe will be known for medical tourism. We will be renowned as a healing nation. Yes, a healthy nation and a healed people. It’s possible. We will do it,” he asserted, using the hashtag #JustImagine to rally support for his vision.
Chamisa’s call highlights the growing frustration among citizens and civic leaders over the state of public services in Zimbabwe, particularly as healthcare becomes increasingly inaccessible to the poor. His statement is both a critique of the current administration’s management and a rallying cry for a new path forward—one that places health and human dignity at the forefront of national priorities.
A disturbing incident unfolded in Beitbridge when a police officer allegedly assaulted a till operator with a beer bottle over a dispute about change for a US$20 note. Ziggie Khonzani, a 32-year-old police officer, has been charged with attempted murder following the violent attack on Valentine Venge, a 27-year-old till operator.
The incident occurred on Monday night at a local restaurant, where Khonzani attempted to purchase groceries worth US$3. Venge informed Khonzani that he didn’t have change for the US$20 note.
Khonzani allegedly tried to increase his purchase to US$5 and then US$10, but Venge suggested they look for change elsewhere.
In a shocking display of aggression, Khonzani smashed the beer bottle on Venge’s head, causing serious injuries to his ear and lower jaw. Venge was rushed to Beitbridge District Hospital for medical attention.
Khonzani appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Charity Maphosa on Wednesday, facing charges of attempted murder.
The incident has raised concerns about the behavior and accountability of law enforcement officers in the community.
In a fresh diplomatic embarrassment, Zimbabwe’s Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Minnie Baloyi, has stirred public outrage after repeating an awkward public moment during a state visit —just last year seen tossing what appears to be litter on a red carpet while being received by French President Emmanuel Macron on 24 July 2024. The resurfaced video clip, now going viral across African social media platforms, shows Baloyi casually discarding a piece of paper or tissue as she curtsies in front of Macron.
This past week she is publicly rubbishing requests for the plight of patients in hospitals.
Minnie Baloyi in under one year
The incident has reawakened fierce criticism around the VP’s wife, with Zimbabweans recalling past episodes of protocol blunders, while this time attaching the issue to deeper societal wounds — including the unresolved fate of Marry Mubaiwa, the estranged ex-wife of Chiwenga and mother of his children, who has been kept from them for six years.
Social media commentator Chapman Tavapatsa Mandaza added fuel to the fire on May 9, 2025, writing under a post by Baloyi:
“While you are still in Europe, tour their hospitals and bring the ideas home. God will appreciate more than visiting Vatican, anoshanda acho ochofa nekushaya basics.”
In response, Minnie Baloyi downplayed her public role, saying:
“I don’t have a say in any ministry because I don’t have a government office or mandate whatsoever. I’m just a wife to my husband, period.”
But many aren’t buying it. Critics argue that Baloyi can’t hide behind the “just a wife” label while parading on international red carpets, receiving diplomatic courtesies, and influencing public narratives at home.
“Is this the role model for Marry Mubaiwa’s children?” asked one user in a trending post. “Six years without their mother, and this is the conduct they witness from the woman who replaced her?”
The symbolism of littering on a red carpet — a place meant to showcase diplomacy, order, and pride — has drawn comparisons to the political decay and ethical rot that many Zimbabweans believe now defines their leadership.
As the video circulates, one thing is clear: Minnie Baloyi is no longer just a private spouse. Her actions are being scrutinized on a national and international scale — and they are not going unnoticed.
By Political Reporter –Zanu PF’s internal power struggles are spilling into the open, with mounting evidence that the ruling party is rigging its own primary elections to sideline rivals and consolidate factional control ahead of crucial by-elections.
The party has nullified the results of its Insiza North primary election held on May 3, 2025, citing failure “to meet the minimum accepted standards.” The move, announced by provincial chairperson Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, has exposed deepening factional tensions within the ruling party and confirmed what many have long suspected: Zanu PF’s expertise in electoral manipulation is now being turned inward in the absence of a strong external opposition.
Matabeleland South Youth League chairperson Moses Langa, who won the contest with 2,478 votes, now finds his victory under threat. He had outpaced several contenders, including Delani Moyo (1,564 votes) and Dr Qhubani Moyo (983 votes), among others. However, insiders allege that the primary was marred by procedural violations and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring by rival camps fighting for dominance in the post-Mugabe Zanu PF.
Similar chaos has gripped Masvingo province, where senior officials face a storm of allegations following the April 16 primaries. A petition lodged on April 26, 2025, accuses provincial secretary for commissariat Brian Munyoro and Chiredzi District DDC PC Daniel Mawere of stuffing pre-filled ballot boxes to rig the vote in favour of Austin Phikelele in Chiredzi East’s Ward 4. Phikelele emerged the winner with 633 votes.
The petition—signed by Fanuel Mhlatiwa, Philemon Muvhundi, Onias Makuni, and Nadia Chirhomo—details a brazen subversion of democratic processes. Witnesses reported agents exiting polling stations during voting, the smuggling in of marked ballot papers, and a suspiciously shortened voting period from 11 am to 2 pm, which saw hundreds of voters turned away.
Critics say the rushed vote was designed to accommodate party leaders who wanted to attend the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), undermining the rights of party supporters and candidates alike.
When contacted, Munyoro deflected responsibility, citing party protocol, while provincial chairperson Rabson Mavhenyengwa claimed ignorance of the petition and questioned why complainants approached the media instead of the party structures.
The Chiredzi East scandal, combined with the reversal of the Insiza North results, reflects broader cracks in Zanu PF as rival factions—aligned variously with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—scramble to place loyalists in strategic constituencies. Analysts warn that the primary elections have effectively become battlegrounds for factional supremacy, with outcomes manipulated to weaken internal challengers ahead of the 2028 general election.
“The rigging we’re seeing is not just about winning a seat—it’s about securing control of the party machinery,” said a senior Zanu PF insider. “Every ward, every constituency has become a proxy war.”
The internal contestation has overshadowed preparations for the June 28 by-elections, triggered by the death of Insiza North MP Farai Taruvinga and the expulsion of Gutu East MP Benjamin Ganyiwa. While Langa was initially announced as the Insiza North candidate and Zvarevashe Masvingise as the Gutu East nominee, the internal disputes cast doubt over both selections.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), already under fire for its handling of the controversial 2023 elections, is now under renewed scrutiny. Civil society groups and opposition parties fear that the culture of electoral fraud within Zanu PF could spill over into national contests, with ZEC again complicit in protecting ruling party interests.
The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and other opposition outfits are expected to contest the upcoming polls, but sustained arrests of their leaders, harassment of activists, and a closing democratic space suggest they face an uphill battle.
By A Correspondent- In a scene straight out of a Hollywood thriller, armed robbers stormed the popular Crystal Lounge over the weekend, locking terrified patrons inside, seizing phones, and turning the quiet nightspot into a full-blown hostage drama.
According to stunned witnesses, chaos broke out late Saturday night when gun-wielding men burst into the lounge, rounded up staff and guests, and barricaded them inside. In a twist of fate, one employee who had slipped away to the toilet managed to alert authorities—triggering a dramatic response from armed police, the canine unit, and ambulances.
Six panicked hostages were freed after law enforcement breached the building. Some officers reportedly scaled the roof and fired warning shots into the night sky, hoping to flush out the gunmen hiding inside.
The area around Robert Mugabe Road and 10th Avenue was cordoned off in anticipation of a possible gun battle. But just as tension peaked, the operation fizzled into an eerie anticlimax: no gunmen, no shootout—just silence. Police packed up and quietly retreated from the scene.
“There are no indications of any arrests,” said sources close to the operation. “It’s likely the suspects slipped away during the confusion.”
In a bizarre add-on to the mystery, police confirmed foiling a separate robbery attempt at a nearby sports bar earlier that morning—only to discover the would-be bandit was brandishing a toy gun.
As for Crystal Lounge, it’s back in civilian hands, but the atmosphere remains tense. With no suspects in custody and police tight-lipped, the night of terror has left more questions than answers.
An official statement from law enforcement is still pending. The robbers, it seems, have vanished into the shadows—for now.
By Business Reporter – WestProp Holdings Limited CEO Ken Sharpe has once again positioned himself at the forefront of Zimbabwe’s property development industry, announcing a landmark partnership with the global hospitality giant Radisson Group to develop the country’s first-ever Radisson-branded serviced apartments.
The project, located within the luxurious Millennium Heights development in Harare, will deliver high-end accommodation and premium amenities, raising the bar for the capital’s hospitality and real estate sectors.
“This development will not only attract tourists and business travelers but also provide a unique opportunity for investors to own a piece of this luxury property,” Sharpe said. “By partnering with Radisson Group, we are confident the management deal will benchmark luxury for hospitality in Harare.”
The Radisson serviced apartments, now officially approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe (SECZ), also mark WestProp’s entry into the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) space. Sharpe revealed plans to list the REIT on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX), adding a new investment avenue for both local and foreign investors.
Through a collaboration with Nhoro Asset Management Pvt Ltd, investors can acquire units in the development from as little as US$500. Benefits include an 8% guaranteed annual rental income, access to luxury amenities, and discounted accommodation rates for unit holders.
“This is a regulated, safe investment structure,” Sharpe said, noting that Kreston Trustees will manage the interests of unit holders to ensure transparency and security.
Industry analysts say the development is set to contribute significantly to economic growth, job creation, and Harare’s reputation as a high-end destination.
“The Radisson serviced apartments will be a game-changer for the city’s hospitality industry and a testament to WestProp’s commitment to delivering exceptional world-class projects,” Sharpe added.
The project cements Sharpe’s reputation as a visionary in Zimbabwe’s real estate sector, spearheading developments that fuse international standards with local opportunities.
A photograph of President Emmerson Mnangagwa awkwardly handling a firearm during a foreign ceremony in Belarus has gone viral, with firearm experts saying that such gun handling causes accidental discharges (AD).
The way Mnangagwa handles the gun in the viral image also rekindles longstanding doubts about his liberation war credentials, particularly in light of recent remarks by a respected war veteran.
The image, taken in what appears to be a ceremonial setting involving Russian officials, shows Mnangagwa gripping an assault rifle with his finger near the trigger, in a crowded room of dignitaries. His posture and orientation of the weapon appear inconsistent with basic firearm safety protocols, raising both security concerns and symbolic questions about the legacy he claims to represent.
A Dangerous Grip—What’s Wrong with This Image?
Experts and veterans alike have pointed out three glaring violations of standard firearm safety: • Finger on the trigger: A basic error for any trained fighter; it breaks Rule #1 of gun safety. • Unclear muzzle direction: The barrel isn’t pointed toward the ground or a clearly safe zone. • Unvetted handling: There’s no visual assurance the weapon was decommissioned or cleared.
The ceremonial context doesn’t negate the optics. In fact, for a head of state—especially one claiming liberation war credentials—such visual missteps are symbolic red flags.
Karen Kazingizi: “Mnangagwa Never Fought in the Liberation Struggle”
This incident has taken on sharper political meaning following a 2019 press conference bold statement by Cde Karen Kazingizi, a seasoned former guerrilla combatant.
“Emmerson Mnangagwa didn’t fight in the liberation struggle,” Kazingizi recently declared. “He was only handpicked by Robert Mugabe to displace and divide real fighters.”
Her comment, widely shared across veteran networks, reflects deepening rifts within ZANU PF’s liberation war generation, many of whom believe Mnangagwa has falsely projected himself as a wartime field commander when in fact he served in administrative or intelligence-support roles outside the combat zones.
A senior male war veteran advised ZimEye on Sunday saying, “It is the shoulder that holds it in position.
“You can not hold a gun like that. The hand will be pushed away or injured.”
Freedom Fighter or Political Infiltrator?
Mnangagwa has long used the rhetoric of war heroism to fortify his image. His infamous nickname “The Crocodile” has been marketed as a symbol of wartime resilience. But critics argue it stems more from post-war political maneuvering and internal purges than any battlefield command.
Kazingizi’s statement, now paired with this firearm gaffe, presents a visual metaphor of someone performing the image of a soldier—without the grounding of real frontline experience.
Symbolism Matters
In a post-conflict society like Zimbabwe, where legitimacy is still tied to liberation narratives, optics such as this are not benign. Weaponry is sacred in war veteran culture—a symbol of sacrifice, discipline, and memory. Mishandling it, especially on a foreign stage, is not just a technical error—it’s a political affront.
Final Thought
Mnangagwa may have held a gun in Moscow, but questions remain: Did he ever hold one in Chimurenga? Did he ever fire it in the name of Zimbabwe’s liberation—or only in pursuit of power?
The gun is symbolic—but as veterans like Kazingizi remind the nation, symbols must be earned, not posed with.-ZimEye.
Prophet Andrew Wutaunashe’s Tswana girlfriend yesterday oozed sweat as she tried to read a Bible verse that condemns adultery, and works of the flesh she’s been involved with the married father of six, that’s caused President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s prophet’s church to split into two factions.👇
Prophet Andrew Wutaunashe’s Tswana girlfriend yesterday oozed sweat as she tried to read a Bible verse that condemns adultery, and works of the flesh she’s been involved with the married father of six, that’s caused President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s prophet’s church to split into… pic.twitter.com/XlUCFSMARH
The government has announced that tough new measures will soon be introduced to crack down on reckless driving. Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe made the announcement while addressing Parliament last week, signaling a shift toward the use of modern technology to enforce road rules.
“Mutemo mutsva urikuuya uye watosvika,” said Minister Kazembe, indicating that a new law is already in place or imminent. “Pane kuti napurisa anyangire pama robots now kwakuiswa camera’s inobata mhosva dzose dzepa road,” he added, explaining that instead of relying solely on police officers at intersections, surveillance cameras have now been installed to monitor all traffic offenses.
These offenses include running red lights, illegal lane crossings, and failure to stop at designated points. “Ukapinda red robot, crossing ma lines asingatenderwi, kusamira Pama stop lights etc. Kana camera yabata izvi mhosva dzako unodziwana pauchada kunoisa mutero wemota,” said the Minister, making it clear that any violations captured by the cameras will be recorded and presented to motorists when they go to renew their vehicle licenses.
He concluded by commending the move: “We applaud the government for such efforts.”
The new measures are expected to bring greater accountability among drivers and significantly reduce traffic offenses, with authorities relying more on digital evidence and less on physical presence.
In a heartwarming reunion that brought back cherished memories of Zimbabwean football glory days, former Warriors and CAPS United teammates Brian “Marcopolo” Badza and Cephas Chimedza reconnected in Amsterdam this past weekend—17 years after they last saw each other.
The emotional meet-up marked the first time the two former football stars had been together since 2007, when both were actively playing and representing Zimbabwe on the international stage.
“After 17 years, I finally reunited with my friend today,” Badza shared in a touching statement on Saturday. “The last time we saw each other was in 2007. It was such a beautiful moment, full of memories and emotion.”
The reunion was made even more special as Badza also met Chimedza’s daughter for the first time. “I also had the joy of meeting his daughter for the first time. Truly priceless,” he added. “I’m sharing a few photos we took to remember this special day.”
The two footballers, once fan favorites at CAPS United and key players in Zimbabwe’s national team, spent time reminiscing about their playing days and catching up on life since their careers took them in different directions.
Their reunion serves as a reminder of the enduring friendships forged through sport—bonds that distance and time cannot easily break.
Eunor Guti’s Sunday Sermon Turns Into Plea for Loyalty After Chivayo’s “Gift” Granting — But No Word Against Corruption
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | HARARE – Apostle Eunor Guti, widow of the late ZAOGA founder Ezekiel Guti, spent her Sunday sermon passionately urging members not to leave the church — but said nothing to denounce the multimillion-dollar “gift” she received from convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo, a man widely viewed as the public face of Zimbabwe’s looting elite.
Instead of publicly rejecting the US$250,000 in cash and 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser that Chivayo paraded online as an offering to the church matriarch, Guti broke into songs of unity, quoted scripture, and likened internal conflict to demonic attacks, all while strategically avoiding the elephant in the sanctuary: her acceptance of a gift tainted by state-enabled corruption.
“Bind us together, Lord,” she chanted repeatedly, launching into a prolonged call for church members to remain in the institution. “Don’t go out of the church,” she urged, even comparing congregants who feel offended to cockroaches wrongly blaming the book that crushed them — a metaphor critics now say cleverly shifts attention from corrupt leadership to personal bitterness.
Eunor Guti
Not once in her more than 90-minute address did Apostle Guti acknowledge that Chivayo — the man offering her luxury and cash — is under investigation by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Unit over R1 billion in diverted public funds. Nor did she mention Chivayo’s many failed tenders in Zimbabwe, from the undelivered Gwanda Solar Project to the controversial ZEC ballot tender.
In fact, her silence on the source of the wealth she just received speaks volumes. Instead of taking a Biblical stand — as Christ did when he called out hypocrites and chased money changers from the temple — Guti chose vague spiritual platitudes.
“We do not wrestle against flesh and blood,” she said, arguing that the real enemy is not people, but unseen forces. For some observers, this was an implicit defense — softening criticism toward visible perpetrators like Chivayo by making spiritual generalizations that shield individuals from accountability.
In doing so, Guti sent a loud message: The church will not confront looters. It will bless them with praise and protect them with scripture.
Compare this to prophetic figures like Thomas Mapfumo, who publicly rejected Chivayo’s attempted bribery. While Mapfumo called out “blood money” for what it is, Guti opened the pulpit to a choreographed service soaked in worship and carefully worded unity messaging — but void of ethical clarity.
Nowhere was Jesus’ command to “hate evil” echoed. Nowhere was Paul’s demand for holiness in leadership reflected. Instead, the congregation was told to stay in the church, forgive offenses, and avoid fighting “books” — a spiritual sleight of hand that critics say amounts to protecting the powerful.
In the end, while the car key may have been quietly taken, Guti’s microphone on Sunday was loud — loud in loyalty messaging, but silent on corruption. The result? A sermon that functioned more as an endorsement of Wicknell Chivayo than a defense of God’s truth.
Eunor Guti Full Speech – Complete with Section Headers
1. Worship and Opening Invocation
Bind us together, Lord, bind us together with cause that cannot be broken… …We glorify Your holy name in Jesus name. Amen, Hallelujah, Amen, amen, amen.
2. Church Identity and Greeting
Amen, the joy and a blessing to be here… …I don’t know what to say. I’ve seen so many exciting things here.
3. Tribute to Apostle Guti and His Legacy Using Wicknell Chivayo’s Car Donation Words
Oh, our father gave us a big God… …He was demonstrating to us what the kind of seed that God had put in him…
4. Godliness, Holiness, and Philippians 4:9
We speak a lot about legacy… …then we will say truly we are carrying the legacy of our father.
5. Spiritual Warfare: Ephesians 6 and the “Cockroach” Analogy
He says here a lot of things, of course… …the one who has lifted the book is the messenger of the devil, and not flesh and blood.
6. Forgiveness and Restoration
I’m not going to change today… …But the one who was holding the book is the one we need to conquer—through the Word of God.
7. Soul Winning and Evangelism Testimonies
Resist the enemy in time of evil… …And now they are in church—enjoying the God our father gave us. Hallelujah.
8. Correction in the Church and False Offense
God gave us—or put us in—a very good church… …The legacy tells us: Continue with this love. So that many people can come. Hallelujah!
9. Final Blessings, Legacy Charge, and Benediction
I will have the burden that my father had… …May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Amen.
Bind us together, Lord, bind us together with cause that cannot be broken. By bind us together. Lord, bind us together. Lord, bind us together with love. Oh, bind us together. Lord, bind us together. With that cannot be brought. Can bind us together? Lord, bind us together. Lord, bind us together with love. Oh, bind us together. Lord, bind us together with cause that cannot be brought. Can bind us together. Lord, bind us together. Lord, bind us together with love.
Oh, that is within me. We want to lift our voices this morning celebrating the goodness of the Lord. He deserves our worship this morning. He deserves all the praise. We thank you for your faithfulness. We thank you for your goodness, Lord. We bless your name, Lord Father. We can be for you to worship and to praise you, Father, we can be for you to worship. Worship and to praise you, our Father. We count before you. Worship You, Lord. To worship you. Come to worship. She I saw we come before song. God, Oh, Shalom Shaka ya Shaka He. This is Your church, Father God, this is your church. This is your church. And these are your children. You know us one by one. Speak to us. Father God, speak to us this morning. Speak to us. Father God, we thank You, Father God, that I say by the no ordinary anointing to break every power of darkness that may try to linger in this place, I command you right now to get out in the name of Jesus Christ, as I pray the fullness of God in this place. We thank You, Father God. We glorify Your holy name in Jesus name. Amen, Hallelujah, Amen, amen, amen.
Amen, the joy and a blessing to be here. I want to first of all greet our overseers who look up we will look at and shepherd us in all of the places that we are, and all the team of pastors whom they are working with, and all the overseers and the pastors, the elders, the deacons, the saints, in the name of our Lord Jesus, Christ, amen. And we also want to greet our bishops, whom we have been having from the start of the anniversary at GCPD. By the way, I am a member of GCP church. That’s where I belong. My father used to say, I’m going to my church, CCPD, as a member, and so I’m a member. When I get to CPT, I’m not only all those portfolios, I’m just a member who has come to worship God and also where I can and participate in what other members are doing. So it’s a blessing to be here. I don’t know what to say. I’ve seen so many exciting things here.
Oh, our father gave us a big God, a big God who changes the lives. And we are here, and I know some are saying, what are you going to say? I’m just going to say what He gives me to say, and that’s what I’m going to say. But I’m happy to be here. And I heard our overseer singing a song here that Baba used to sing. And I said, Oh, I will sing one too:
He lifted me up from the deep miry clay. He planted my feet on the King’s Highway, and this is the reason I sing and I shout for Jesus came down and He lifted me up.
If you read in the history that he used to come to Harare hospital and preach to their nurses there. This is the song that he would first sing. And then the nurses would say he’s singing. He’s singing, look with his glasses and crossover bells that way. But the fruit was seen in Harare hospital because nurses were saved and they were not ordinary people. Wherever they are, they are not ordinary people. They are leaders who are doing something. We thank God that He gave us our father, the apostle and servant of God Ezekiel, the legendary…
Who, when he received the seed in. That his mother was saying, I went to I went and I had some preacher saying, sinners will go to hell and burn with fire. Others who were sitting with him, they didn’t take it seriously. But to Ezekiel, the seed went right in that made him to have no rest but to seek and find who this God is and how he can escape from going to the hell.
And one day, as he was in the bush and saying, creator, if you are there and save my soul. The presence of God filled the whole place from above, and there was sweet music that was there, and as he listened, there was a voice that said, Fear not and sin not.
And he took those words and his journey that he traveled until he went to be in glory with these words, fear not sin not, fear not sin not, fear not sin not, fear not sin not, and demonstrating to us what sin not is.
We saw the holiness that was in him. We saw the truthfulness that was in him. We saw the love of God that when you stood near him or sit next to him, or hear him speak, you would think that I am the only beloved here because of the great love that was in him. Amen. The great love that was in him. What was he doing?
He was demonstrating to us what the kind of seed that God had put in him and demonstrating to us that this is what we must follow.
We speak a lot about legacy. The legacy continues, and through the legacy is continuing, but we need to go deeper what that means.
Here I have a definition that says legacy is values, stories, traditions, lessons passed down from generation to generation, lessons passed down from generation to generation. And here we are. We have lessons from our father.
And during his last days, he spoke much about Philippians four, verse nine, and Philippians four, verse nine, the things which you have learned, the things which you have received, the things which you have heard and saw in me, these do and the God of peace shall be with you.
My mouth is going to be small, but I will try. This scripture is not just to say to say it, but what did we see in our Father? We saw, among other things, godliness, godliness.
It doesn’t mean to say there were no people who were… but he overcame and continued to show godliness.
In the places I would travel with him, they would say, Who is this man? Who is this man who… And then you would explain to say, this is the man of God. He is a prophet of God. And then you say something—they saw the life.
You go into the small hotels that we were staying in, and the owners of the hotel, with all the workers, they would come and say, Who is this man? Who is this man?
What were they seeing? They were seeing the godliness that was in him, and it is this godliness that we also saw in him. And now he says, do it, and the God of peace shall be with you.
When we talk about legacy, it’s not just a hashtag. We need to know how our father walked, and all we also imitate him—how he walked. And when we imitate him—how he walked, then we will say truly we are carrying the legacy of our father.
He says here a lot of things, of course, Forward in Faith church is controlled in heaven.
Forward in Faith church is controlled in heaven. It is better when you sin to confess and make right with God, because Forward in Faith is controlled in heaven. If we can come back to the fear of God, God will do great things. God will do great things if we can come back and stay to the fear of God that our Father showed us, that he was told to say, fear not, sin not.
We are going to see God, the God of Ezekiel, doing great things in this church. And he says, people must be taught the Word of God, of which we are going to talk about, a Christian who steals from other Christians must repent.
A Christian who steals from other Christians. How do we steal? I’ve left my past and I’m doing something, and you are seeing that I am not looking at the past, then you take something from my past, but you are a Christian. Then our father says, must repent, must repent.
And he says, confess the sin that is troubling you. If you have weakness in your life, don’t preach until you overcome it, until you overcome it.
And he would say, it’s better to say these days, like I would say, these days, I am fighting with the spirit of procrastination, the spirit of procrastination. As I kept on saying that, that spirit of procrastination finally departed from me, and I don’t do the procrastination now. Somebody said to me, I’m the now woman, the now woman, because the spirit of procrastination was gone.
All this, we get it from our father. He taught us this. We saw in him that he had no procrastination.
And he says, Everyone must be a soul winner wherever you are, be a soul winner. Be a soul winner. Be a soul winner wherever you are. Because our father was a soul winner wherever he was. Have that burden, have that spirit of making sure that you don’t spend some days without winning a soul to Jesus Christ.
I don’t mean those who come on the front when it is being preached, but having your own, your own, your own whom you will lead to the Lord Jesus Christ. Soul winning. Soul winning. Our father was a soul winner, hallelujah, a soul winner.
You are not getting me. You are getting me on on Friday, because I learnt from my father and I cannot stay without speaking to somebody about Jesus Christ.
[…]
I believe we are many. I don’t like to see a cockroach in my house. It doesn’t matter. It’s one cockroach. I don’t say hi, it’s one cockroach. It’s one cockroach, but it’s going to multiply and multiply and multiply and fill the whole house with many cockroaches.
And so what do I do? I’ve seen this cockroach, I find something, and let’s say it’s this book that I have found, and this is what I will do to the cockroach. I will.
What am I doing? I’m killing the cockroach, but the cockroach does not see me. It sees the book. It sees the book. If it was going to get angry, it would get angry to the book to say, the book has killed me. Really, is it the book? Can the book lift itself and go? Can it? No.
That shows that there was somebody behind whom the cockroach did not see. But the one whom the cockroach did not see is the one who lifted the book because he doesn’t want to see cockroaches.
[…]
Let’s now turn to Ephesians. Ephesians chapter six, I want to help somebody so that you won’t go out of your church, seeing people and yet they are not people who have done that.
Ephesians, chapter six, verse 10, from verse 10: Finally, a final word. This was Paul after he was talking with many different groups, families, children, servants and all that. Then here he comes to say a final word, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
In other words, he is now telling this group to be strong in the Lord, strong against the enemy, against what would want to take what was in them. And then he says on verse 11, put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.
Put on God’s armor. And God’s armor that we have is the Word of God. This is why, when I have received the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, is my inner man spirit-man who receives the Lord Jesus Christ as a personal Savior and gets born again by the Word and the Holy Spirit.
Now this inner man spirit-man is a man who also feeds on food so that he can survive. And his food is not this sadza that we eat, but his food is the Word of God. This is why it is very important for me to read the Word of God every day, because as I am reading it, I am feeding the inner man. That is his food. He does not drink Coca-Cola. He does not eat what this flesh eats.
[…]
For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
We have come to get the answer now that now we have said, it’s not this book that has killed the cockroach.
They say, I’m the cockroach. It’s not this book that has killed the cockroach, but somebody lifted the book, somebody who is not flesh and blood.
Are we hearing that? Who is not flesh and blood has lifted the book to go and fight the cockroach, or to destroy the cockroach, but he is not flesh and blood.
Yes, the Bible tells us that, for we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood, but against powers, against rulers of darkness, against spiritual wickedness in high places— and all those they belong to the devil, which means to say, the one who has lifted the book is the messenger of the devil, and not flesh and blood.
I’m not going to change today. The choir master, the way he spoke to me, I don’t like it. He scolded me. I’m not going. I’m not—if I go, I’m not going to sing. I’ll just sit in the bench. It’s not the choir master. It’s not him. Choir master is flesh and blood.
Are we getting it? For choir master is the flesh and blood, but there’s somebody behind who has used the choir master like the book we’re talking about. Choir master is the book.
Know it today. Know it from today. That it is not flesh and blood. It’s not flesh and blood, but it is spiritual wickedness in high places, the messengers of the devil that he uses because he sees that what you are doing, you are destroying his kingdom.
[…]
So we can only escape when we read the Word of God, not visiting the Word, but really reading it like we eat sadza. And as we do that, the Word will cleanse us. The Word will take away all the dirt. The Word will make us to have truth where there is a character in my life that is not good.
The Word of God will go there and cleanse me and wash me and make me to be somebody. When I’m reading it, the Holy Spirit speaks to me to say, “Do you know that you are full of anger?” You are full of anger. I don’t want you to have that anger.
And what do I do? I know myself—I often do it—I put the Bible aside and I cry before God. When the Holy Spirit has shown me something in my life, I cry.
And as we go and continue with the journey, it means to say those things will be done with and they won’t be in my life.
But that was our point. It’s not flesh and blood that has offended me. Flesh and blood was just an instrument of which I need to forgive.
I need to forgive—and not forgive from the mouth, but forgive from the heart. Forgive from the heart.
Matthew 18:35: So my Father will do also to you if you do not from your heart forgive your brother who has wronged you.
I forgive from the heart, but many forgiveness, like I used to do, I would forgive with the mouth: “Yes, I’ve forgiven. I’m a Christian. I’ve forgiven.”
But how did I know it was from the mouth and not the heart?
When something similar happens and when I see the person, there would be a ball inside that would rise up here. A ball of anger, which was very painful, and tears would be running down— “She did this to me!” But I said I forgave…
No. That was forgiveness from the mouth.
But when I forgave from the heart—there was nothing left here. I was able to pray for that person and to bless that person. And when I saw that person, there was no ball of anger that rose again. It was flat and sweet because I had forgiven.
Stay there. The book is not your problem, because the book is flesh and blood. But the one who was holding the book is the one we need to conquer—through the Word of God.
Resist the enemy in time of evil. Then after the battle, you will be standing firm. Here I am, something has happened, and I realize that that something is the devil who wants to take me away from my rightful place. And this is what I will do. I will fight not with this, but with the Word of God, as I am praying and declaring and saying, “No, this will not happen to me. I am more than a conqueror.”
The Word of God says, “So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
So I will say the scriptures and say, “I have hidden the Word of God,” Psalms 119:11, “Thy word have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
Maybe it’s something that is wanting you to sin, then you tell it the Word of God and say, “No, I am a child of God.” Hallelujah. Hallelujah.
Are we getting it?
Because what I’m saying is true. There are some here, some of us, who have dropped what they were doing because so and so said this to me, and there are some who have said, “I will just go and sit in the church.” And some said, “No, I’m not even going to that church.”
And I said, “The church is not bad. We the people came, and we the people—” the devil uses us to destroy one another without us knowing what is happening.
And the only answer that we are given here is to read the Word of God and to put on every piece of God’s armor so you will resist the enemy in time of evil. Then after the battle, you will be standing firm.
And it says, “Resist the devil, and he will flee.” He will run away.
This is why we need to read the Word of God. The Word of God gives us victory. Hallelujah. The Word of God gives us victory.
As I am talking like this, there are others who don’t speak to each other now, and you don’t show that you don’t want to speak to them—all you do is just walk by, like you’re going for something special, but you don’t want to speak to them.
The Kingdom of God is not just talk. It’s the Word.
The Kingdom of God is not just talking, but you read the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit reveals to you what is in the Word. The riches that are in the Word, you get them by faith in you, and you begin now to act like the Word says.
That’s what our father did.
This is why, when he went to his home and said, “Eureka! Eureka! I found it.” He found it in the Word of God that he was reading.
We can be preached to, the Kingdom of God so many times, and hands laid upon us so many times, but if we don’t read the Word of God, we will not arise.
[…]
You are getting me. On Friday, I learnt from my father and I cannot stay without speaking to somebody about Jesus Christ.
So a group called me. They wanted to interview me. There were 14 of them. And we went into the office, and I said to them, “After I’ve told you what you came for, I want you to also listen to me, to what I have to tell you.” And they said, “Yes.”
And after the interview, I said, “Now, it’s my time. You sit down so we can talk.” And I began to talk to them about Jesus Christ, about this God whom our father Ezekiel gave us, what He does when He has come into your heart, into your life, and what you gain from Him.
As I was talking, and giving my testimony, I said, “You too can be changed and become somebody who is new.” And when I said, “Now I want you to receive the Lord Jesus Christ. How many are ready?” All of them raised up their hands.
And I said, “Follow after me this prayer.” And I did it. And after that, they came forward. I prayed for each and every one of them.
And I gave all those people to the overseer of Braeside, and they wrote the decision cards, and I said, “When I need to know about them, I will come to you overseer. These souls—make sure they are kept.”
And you know what happened? When they left that place, they were so happy. Their faces had changed because the light had entered into them.
We must be soul winners. Soul winners.
[…]
Even during the walkathon and aerobics, I didn’t just exercise. Some “big fish” came to me and were talking—I don’t know what they wanted. And I said to them, “You saw our father, whom we are remembering through this walkathon, and you touched his body. You were favored by God to do that.”
Because many people wanted to touch his body and couldn’t, but you did. And God was saying, “I need you to worship me.”
At the end I said, “Where do you live?” One said “Greendale,” and another said “Waterfalls.”
And I found Pastor Takuswa and said, “This one lives in Greendale. Take him to church.” And he said, “I will take this one too and show him the pastor who will shepherd him.”
And now they are in church—enjoying the God our father gave us. Hallelujah.
God gave us—or put us in—a very good church: Forward in Faith. A church that God started through His servant. And it’s a church. It’s a church with no sin. It’s a church with no hatred. It’s a church with no other things you can think of. But it’s a **pure church of God**.
And we, all of us—God located us and planted us in this very good, pure church. Full of love.
We came in here as individuals. Some say, “We were born in this church.” Let me correct you: **You were not born in this church.**
It’s only that your mother was pregnant while she was in this church. But then, for you to be truly born here, to go to maternity and be recognized now that you are planted in this church— you had to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.
So nobody was born here.
We all came to a church that is good, to a church that is pure. And now—we who came to a pure church are the ones who are fighting against each other.
We’re not using fists like this—but we are using **words**. Someone will say: “I’ve been offended.” Have you heard those words? “I’ve been offended.”
And if you say, “I’ve been offended,” that’s not your cue to say: “I’m going out of church.”
Because there is **nothing wrong** with the church. The church is good on its own. It’s pure on its own.
We are the comers. We came. And we are the ones who offend one another.
Whether it’s the Archbishop, whether it is the bishop, whether it is the overseer, whether it is the GP, whether it is the evangelist, elder, deacon, believer—**we all came** into this church.
And this church is **very good**—pure—because it was from God.
Are you traveling with me?
So then you say, “I’ve been offended!” But by who?
If you say it’s not the overseer, not the bishop, not the elder, not the deacon—**who then?**
Who caused you to say, “I’m going out of church”?
I say to you: **Don’t go out.** Because the church itself is good.
I will now show you who offends you.
—
Let’s go back to the **book and cockroach analogy.**
Remember, the cockroach is offended by the book. But the book did not act on its own. Someone lifted the book.
It’s the **one behind the book**—unseen by the cockroach—who hit it.
So also, when you’re offended in church, the person who offends you is **just the book.** The one behind—the real enemy—is the devil.
We do not wrestle against **flesh and blood**.
So whether it is the choir master, the overseer, the bishop—whoever it is— they are flesh and blood. They are books.
They were **used** by a power you cannot see to hit you. That power is the devil.
So when you leave church or stop serving because of offense, you are making the same mistake as the cockroach getting angry at the book.
—
**So what should we do?**
We forgive. Not from the mouth. But from the heart. And we stay in the church. Because **there is nothing wrong with the church**.
We are to love each other.
Even if someone is used as a book to hit you, you say: “No, it’s not her. The devil used her.” And you **forgive**. And you **love**.
Forgive from the heart. Love from the heart.
This is the love we saw in our father. A love that did not discriminate.
And when we have that love, many people will come. Because they will sense that love.
We came because we sensed that love. And they will come because they sense that love.
But that love is not a cheap love. It’s a love that forgives even offenses. It’s a love that cleans the spirit and continues to worship and praise God.
—
And when we know this truth, we will not have enemies in the church. We will pray for people—not for bad things—but for good things.
The legacy tells us: **Continue with this love.** So that many people can come.
Hallelujah!
I will have the burden that my father had—the burden of soul winning.
Spending a week and not talking to any soul—there’s something wrong. Let’s pray for the burden that was in our father.
It doesn’t matter if he was in a plane—he would sit next to someone, and by the time they landed, that person would be a Christian.
Because he had a burden for souls.
If he had a burden for souls, and we are following him and imitating him, let’s also have that burden.
Soul winning. Soul winning.
You ask, “How do I do it?”
At your workplace—walk with someone. Befriend someone. Love someone. Not romantic love—**godly love.**
And when you meet that someone, tell them what happened to you. How you were. What God did in your life.
And you’ll find they’ll say, “Me too. How can I be like you?”
Then you lead them to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Soul winning. Soul winning. Soul winning.
As we continue the legacy—**let’s do what our father was doing.**
—
Let’s love the people. Let’s walk in godliness.
I know Baba said: **“A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another.”**
And he said: “This is My commandment: that you love…”
Love like Jesus loved. Love like our father did.
—
We bless your children, Lord. Whatever the attraction of their hands—bless them.
We glorify You.
For those children who are going to school— Thank You, Lord, for protecting them.
We plead the **blood of Jesus Christ**.
We glorify You this day. Let joy begin to rise within us. Let us see the great things You are doing.
—
Father God, Thank You for this gathering.
Let Your light shine on us.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all.
A photograph of President Emmerson Mnangagwa awkwardly handling a firearm during a foreign ceremony in Belarus has gone viral—rekindling longstanding doubts about his liberation war credentials, particularly in light of recent remarks by a respected war veteran.
The image, taken in what appears to be a ceremonial setting involving Russian officials, shows Mnangagwa gripping an assault rifle with his finger near the trigger, in a crowded room of dignitaries. His posture and orientation of the weapon appear inconsistent with basic firearm safety protocols, raising both security concerns and symbolic questions about the legacy he claims to represent.
A Dangerous Grip—What’s Wrong with This Image?
Experts and veterans alike have pointed out three glaring violations of standard firearm safety: • Finger on the trigger: A basic error for any trained fighter; it breaks Rule #1 of gun safety. • Unclear muzzle direction: The barrel isn’t pointed toward the ground or a clearly safe zone. • Unvetted handling: There’s no visual assurance the weapon was decommissioned or cleared.
The ceremonial context doesn’t negate the optics. In fact, for a head of state—especially one claiming liberation war credentials—such visual missteps are symbolic red flags.
Karen Kazingizi: “Mnangagwa Never Fought in the Liberation Struggle”
This incident has taken on sharper political meaning following a 2019 press conference bold statement by Cde Karen Kazingizi, a seasoned former guerrilla combatant.
“Emmerson Mnangagwa didn’t fight in the liberation struggle,” Kazingizi recently declared. “He was only handpicked by Robert Mugabe to displace and divide real fighters.”
Her comment, widely shared across veteran networks, reflects deepening rifts within ZANU PF’s liberation war generation, many of whom believe Mnangagwa has falsely projected himself as a wartime field commander when in fact he served in administrative or intelligence-support roles outside the combat zones.
A senior male war veteran advised ZimEye on Sunday saying, “It is the shoulder that holds it in position.
“You can not hold a gun like that. The hand will be pushed away or injured.”
Freedom Fighter or Political Infiltrator?
Mnangagwa has long used the rhetoric of war heroism to fortify his image. His infamous nickname “The Crocodile” has been marketed as a symbol of wartime resilience. But critics argue it stems more from post-war political maneuvering and internal purges than any battlefield command.
Kazingizi’s statement, now paired with this firearm gaffe, presents a visual metaphor of someone performing the image of a soldier—without the grounding of real frontline experience.
Symbolism Matters
In a post-conflict society like Zimbabwe, where legitimacy is still tied to liberation narratives, optics such as this are not benign. Weaponry is sacred in war veteran culture—a symbol of sacrifice, discipline, and memory. Mishandling it, especially on a foreign stage, is not just a technical error—it’s a political affront.
Final Thought
Mnangagwa may have held a gun in Belarus, but questions remain: Did he ever hold one in Chimurenga? Did he ever fire it in the name of Zimbabwe’s liberation—or only in pursuit of power?
The gun is symbolic—but as veterans like Kazingizi remind the nation, symbols must be earned, not posed with.-ZimEye.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the Gukurahundi Genocide Victims and Survivors. Happy Mother’s Day to Women who reside at Mkhonyeni Village in Tsholotsho North. The fearless Women gather every year to hold a memorial service for more than 20 women whose bones lie in an unmarked graves. The Fifth Brigade shot and burnt them in four grass thatched huts in the presence of their children who continue calling for justice.
By A Correspondent-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has left Moscow for Belarus following his participation in Russia’s 80th Victory Day commemorations held at the Kremlin’s Red Square on Friday. His next stop, Belarus, further signals deepening ties with Eastern European authoritarian states under the guise of economic cooperation.
Mnangagwa’s foreign trips, often kept secret until he lands, continue to drain millions in taxpayers’ money. The costs of travel for the presidium—including chartered jets, accommodation, and delegations—remain undisclosed to Parliament and the public, raising accountability concerns. Critics have labelled him the “Airborne President,” more seen abroad than solving pressing domestic crises.
In Moscow, Mnangagwa met President Vladimir Putin to reaffirm Zimbabwe’s alignment with Russia’s anti-Western bloc. Putin praised Zimbabwe’s support in multilateral forums and urged practical implementation of bilateral deals. Mnangagwa, in turn, lauded Russia’s wartime sacrifices and promised to deepen ties in mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
However, beneath the ceremonial diplomacy lie deeper geopolitical interests. Mnangagwa has adopted Russia and Belarus as models for governance—marked by military dominance, surveillance, and media control. His admiration for Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has led to several opaque deals involving his wife, Auxillia Mnangagwa, including alleged arms-for-minerals arrangements and agricultural machinery acquisitions that bypass parliamentary scrutiny.
Zimbabwe’s trade with Russia reached US$7.4 billion in 2024 against imports worth US$9.5 billion, reflecting a US$2.1 billion trade deficit. While authorities tout export opportunities in citrus, berries, and oilseeds, little benefit trickles down to the average Zimbabwean amid rising inflation and unemployment.
Mnangagwa’s frequent foreign visits, coupled with autocratic influences and non-transparent deals, continue to isolate Zimbabwe from democratic reforms. His government’s obsession with global alliances over local development reveals a regime more concerned with elite survival than people-centered progress.
MWOS fought back to earn a 2-2 draw against a nine-man TelOne side in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 11 clash at Ngoni Stadium on Saturday.
TelOne opened the scoring in the 9th minute through Eriya Mafirenyika and extended their lead just after the break with a goal from Milton Chimedza in the 47th minute.
MWOS sparked their comeback shortly after the hour mark, with Innocent Zambezi narrowing the deficit in the 53rd minute. TelOne had a golden opportunity to reestablish their two-goal cushion, but Washington Navaya missed a penalty ten minutes later.
Their situation worsened when both Allen Chapinduka and Kudakwashe Nyakudanga received red cards, reducing TelOne to nine men. MWOS capitalized on the advantage, and Arthur Banda netted the equalizer in the 87th minute, preserving their unbeaten streak, now at eleven games.
In other matches, CAPS United drew 1-1 with Herentals, while Ngezi Platinum and ZPC Kariba ended 2-2.
By Showbiz Reporter | ZimEye | Celebrated Zimbabwean singer and actress Ammara Brown has publicly announced her pregnancy, revealing that she is expecting a daughter in a touching and intimate social media video released just 43 minutes ago.
Dressed in a white embroidered maternity gown, Ammara is seen gently cradling her baby bump in a serene garden setting, accompanied by her son and a man presumed to be her partner. The heartwarming video also includes an ultrasound scan, confirming the joyous news.
In a deeply personal caption, Ammara wrote:
“To have a wonderful daughter growing inside me, a magnificent son who loves boundlessly, and the love of my life right beside me… My blessings overwhelm me. I wish this for every mother out there.”
The news has sparked an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans and fellow artists across the region, with the announcement already garnering thousands of likes and hundreds of heartfelt comments.
Known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, Ammara Brown continues to inspire her followers—not just through music, but through moments of motherhood and authenticity.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa attended Russia’s 80th Victory Day commemorations at Red Square in Moscow this past weekend and later addressed Zimbabwean students studying in the country.
In his remarks, Mnangagwa repeated familiar promises of support, telling students that the government is committed to their welfare and integration into Zimbabwe’s economic development efforts.
“The government will continue to take care of its citizens and create an environment for them to thrive,” he said, echoing sentiments he has shared at similar student engagements abroad.
He highlighted the role of science, technology, and innovation in national growth, calling on students to embrace these fields. “We need your knowledge and expertise back home to build our country. The future of Zimbabwe lies in the hands of skilled and innovative young people,” he stated.
The students took the opportunity to raise concerns around mutual recognition of qualifications, government support mechanisms, and access to start-up funding. However, Mnangagwa offered few concrete solutions, instead reaffirming broad commitments without clear timelines or actionable plans.
As has become customary during his international visits, the president’s meeting with students served more as a symbolic gesture than a forum for tangible engagement, with students leaving with more reassurances than results.
A shocking incident has rocked the community of Ziyapenduka Village in Chipinge, as 48-year-old Amos Nduna stands accused of brutally murdering his brother over a long-standing feud sparked by clashes between their dogs. The brothers’ animosity, fueled by their pets’ constant fights, ultimately led to a tragic confrontation.
According to police reports, the fateful day began with a confrontation between the brothers while they were on their way to their properties. The encounter, triggered by a fight between their dogs, initially seemed to have been diffused. However, tensions escalated later that day when Nduna followed his brother to his banana plantation. It was there that the accused allegedly attacked his brother with a machete, striking him multiple times.
The victim’s body was discovered the following day by his household helper, who had grown concerned after finding the house locked. A search of the banana plantation led to the gruesome discovery of the deceased in a pool of blood. The helper immediately reported the incident to the police, leading to Nduna’s apprehension and the recovery of the alleged murder weapon.
Nduna appeared before Magistrate Cathrine Dzivanyika at the Chipinge Magistrate Court on May 8th, 2025, facing charges under Section 47 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act Chapter 9:23. Prosecutor Tanaka Mufudza represented the State during the court proceedings. The accused has been remanded in custody until May 22nd for routine remand.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have urged the public to seek mediation and professional assistance to resolve conflicts peacefully, emphasizing the importance of avoiding tragic outcomes.
Masvingo City Mayor, Councillor Aleck Tabe, has sounded the alarm over a growing sanitation crisis in the city—used condoms are clogging the sewage system.
In a statement released on Friday, Mayor Tabe expressed deep concern about the improper disposal of condoms, which he says is contributing to frequent sewage blockages in Zimbabwe’s oldest city.
“Vagari vemuguta reMasvingo varikurasira macondom muma sewage kana vapedza kumashandisa, izvo zvirikunzeresa kubhaja kwemasewage muguta,” said Tabe, addressing the issue in Shona.
Translated, he noted: “Residents of Masvingo are throwing used condoms into the sewage system after use, which is causing blockages in the city’s sewer lines.”
The mayor urged residents to act responsibly. “We urge residents to dispose of condoms in bins,” he added. “We can’t control these issues of leisure and intimacy.”
Tabe suggested that the problem is being exacerbated by the presence of six institutions of higher learning in and around the city, pointing to high levels of sexual activity—commonly referred to as mjolo—as a contributing factor.
City engineers and sanitation workers have reportedly been battling recurring blockages, straining already stretched municipal resources.
The city council is expected to launch a public awareness campaign in the coming weeks, encouraging responsible waste disposal and safer hygiene practices among residents.
Anyway Mutambudzi, the Chief Director of Strategic Communications in the Office of the President and Cabinet, has stirred debate by suggesting that the use of force on society is sometimes necessary to achieve strategic goals.
Speaking from Moscow, Russia, where he accompanied President Emmerson Mnangagwa for the 80th anniversary commemorations of Nazi Germany’s defeat, Mutambudzi drew parallels between World War II and modern governance, using the conflict as a case study to justify the strategic application of force.
“At universities, I teach the use of force in international relations with two main objectives: understanding the evolution of the art of war and the effects of the application of force on society,” Mutambudzi wrote in a public statement.
He described the Second World War as a defining example. “The Second World War is a landmark case study for both objectives as it is in this period that modern warfare based on combined arms and maneuver of infantry, artillery, tanks, airforce, [and] navy reached its zenith,” he said. “The war shaped the global outlook that has endured to the present… including the Cold War between the East and West.”
Mutambudzi further stated, “The use of force, as seen in the war, shows how determined objectives can be achieved when societal resistance is overcome through organized military and strategic pressure.”
The comments, delivered against the backdrop of the Kremlin’s annual Victory Day parade, come at a time when Zimbabwe is grappling with growing civic discontent and increasing state surveillance. Critics may interpret Mutambudzi’s remarks as signaling a hardened stance from the highest levels of government.
Reflecting on his experience at the event, Mutambudzi noted: “I gained a lot of insights and filled gaps in my knowledge of what transpired during those difficult times,” referring to the Russian resistance against German invasion and the eventual advance to Berlin that marked the collapse of Nazi Germany.
His remarks have sparked discussion online, with many questioning whether this endorsement of historical military force could foreshadow more aggressive domestic policies at home.
By A Correspondent – Senior Zanu PF officials in Masvingo are facing internal backlash amid allegations of vote-rigging in the party’s recent primary elections. At the centre of the storm is provincial secretary for commissariat Brian Munyoro, who is accused of manipulating the outcome in Chiredzi East’s Ward 4.
A petition dated April 26, 2025, signed by Fanuel Mhlatiwa, Philemon Muvhundi, Onias Makuni, and Nadia Chirhomo, alleges that Munyoro and Chiredzi District DDC PC Daniel Mawere brought pre-filled ballot boxes favouring candidate Austin Phikelele, who emerged victorious with 633 votes. The petition is addressed to Zanu PF national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, provincial chairperson Rabson Mavhenyengwa, and DCC chairperson Siyaki Mundungehama.
Eyewitnesses cited in the petition claim that some agents exited polling stations during voting hours and that additional ballot papers—some already marked for Phikelele—were smuggled in. The vote was controversially limited to a three-hour window, from 11 am to 2 pm, with many voters turned away. Petitioners allege this was done to allow party leaders, including Munyoro and Mawere, to rush to the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), at the cost of voter rights.
When contacted by Masvingo Mirror, Munyoro declined to comment, citing party protocol. “We have structures in place. You can call the provincial chairperson for a comment,” he said. Mavhenyengwa, for his part, denied knowledge of the petition. “I told the national political commissar (Munyaradzi Machacha) that I know nothing about the letter. Why did they go to the media instead of attending our mobilization meeting?” he asked.
The Chiredzi East dispute comes as Zanu PF finalizes candidates for upcoming by-elections set for June 28. In Insiza North, Moses Langa secured a win in the primaries, beating over six rivals. Meanwhile, Zvarevashe Masvingise will represent the party in Gutu East after winning the April 16 primaries.
These by-elections follow the expulsion of Gutu East MP Benjamin Ganyiwa for “disciplinary issues” and the death of Insiza North MP Farai Taruvinga in March. President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially declared both seats vacant through Statutory Instrument 44A of 2025.
While Langa’s victory in Insiza North appears decisive, it is taking place in a context of escalating factional fights within Zanu PF. The ruling party’s internal polls are frequently marred by vote-rigging allegations, candidate impositions, and intimidation—often reflecting deeper power struggles between factions loyal to Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
Insiders say Langa benefited from the backing of powerful figures in Matabeleland South, giving him an edge in the primaries, which have become proxies for larger battles within the party hierarchy.
As the June by-elections approach, scrutiny will turn to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and whether it can ensure fair polls. ZEC has previously been accused of manipulating electoral processes in favour of Zanu PF, including the controversial 2023 general elections, which were plagued by delays, intimidation, and irregularities.
Opposition parties, including the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), are expected to contest the by-elections, although continued arrests of their leaders and activists point to a tough road ahead.
By A Correspondent- The government has announced its plan to forcibly relocate more than 3,600 families in Chivi District to roll out the long-awaited Tugwi Mukosi dam Master Plan.
According to a recently released draft of the master plan—now open for public consultation over a three-month period—3,652 households in Chivi and Masvingo Rural Districts are likely to be directly affected, primarily through displacement.
This new round of potential displacements comes on top of the relocation of around 3,300 families a decade ago, who were moved to Chingwizi in Mwenezi after dam waters inundated their homes in the Tugwi-Mukosi basin.
“For Chivi District, the concerned wards have a population of 38,644, while Masvingo Rural District has 35,422 people. However, about 3,652 households are more likely to be directly affected by development in the Tugwi-Mukosi development zone. Most of these households will be displaced,” reads part of the draft plan.
However, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, told TellZim News that relocation would be a last resort.
“The main thrust of the government is on reorganization or rearrangement for affected families. Displacement would be a last resort.
Government has a clear policy on the relocation of people affected by government programmes,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.
The Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan outlines ambitious proposals for infrastructural, agricultural, tourism, and urban development around the dam, which was commissioned in 2017.
The government has for years promoted the area as a future economic hub for Zimbabwe’s southern region.
Still fresh in the minds of many are the traumatic displacements of 2014, when families were hastily evacuated due to rising waters.
Many of those resettled in Chingwizi continue to live in poor conditions, with limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
The new master plan envisions the creation of irrigation schemes, tourism lodges, fishery projects, urban housing developments, and upgraded road infrastructure to transform the dam’s catchment into a vibrant, multi-use economic zone.
In a development that casts doubt over the authenticity of his law degree, President Emmerson Mnangagwa failed to pronounce one of the most basic nouns in history and law subjects, the word tyranny. Mnangagwa was speaking to Russian President Vladimir Putin, for the first time since his last visit. During his last trip, Mnangagwa triggered a diplomatic war when he accused another SADC country of a war allegation. Video loading below
By Business Reporter-The Corporate Governance Unit (CGU) in the Office of the President and Cabinet has unearthed another round of alleged looting at the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), deepening public outrage amid the continued suffering of pensioners.
At the centre of the storm is a proposed contract for acting general manager Dr Charles Shava, which includes a basic monthly salary of over US$15,000—nearly triple the cap previously set by government for executives in public entities. Dr Shava has been acting general manager since July 2022 and is believed to be the frontrunner among six candidates vying for the substantive post.
The CGU, which submitted its review of Dr Shava’s proposed contract to NSSA’s parent ministry, flagged the deal as riddled with irregularities and misaligned with existing government remuneration frameworks. Sources privy to the matter said the CGU also plans to issue a broader directive on salary structures for senior executives at NSSA.
“During its review of Dr Shava’s contract, the CGU found inconsistencies between some benefits and the established remuneration framework for public entities,” said a source close to the investigation. “These benefits were not only excessive but also significantly out of sync with those offered by other public bodies.”
Extravagant Benefits Amid Pensioner Poverty
The CGU was particularly alarmed by proposals to pay Dr Shava 40 percent of his US$15,730 salary in hard currency, in addition to other lavish perks such as a performance bonus of 25 percent of his annual salary (approximately US$47,280), a fully serviced house in a low-density suburb, a 10 percent monthly representation allowance, and full coverage of school fees for up to three children, benchmarked against elite institutions like Prince Edward School and Africa University.
Also rejected were perks including 24-hour private security, a DStv full bouquet, two domestic workers, business class holiday flights for the general manager and spouse, and economy tickets for up to four children—plus a US$3,000 allowance per person. A vehicle loan equal to a year’s gross salary and costs for professional subscriptions and personal development were also turned down.
These proposals have sparked public anger, given the economic hardship faced by pensioners who contributed to NSSA for decades. The majority of Zimbabwean pensioners currently receive monthly payouts of less than US$40, an amount far below the poverty datum line. Many have been forced to continue working into their old age, turn to street vending, or rely on remittances from children and relatives in the diaspora.
Some retirees have died in penury while waiting for their pensions to be processed, and others have staged protests at NSSA offices across the country demanding fair compensation, only to be ignored or dispersed by police.
History of Scandal and Instability
This is not the first time NSSA, a state-owned pension fund with vast investment portfolios across listed and unlisted companies, has been embroiled in scandal. In 2018, its management came under fire for awarding themselves salaries that flouted the 2014 Cabinet cap of US$6,000 for CEOs of public entities.
The authority has also been plagued by instability, with frequent changes in top leadership since 2015. Former general manager Mr James Matiza’s dismissal triggered a cycle of short-lived appointments, including Mr Hashmon Matemera, Ms Elizabeth Chitsiga, Mr Emmerson Mangwariri, and Mr Arthur Manase—all of whom exited under clouds of controversy or abrupt termination.
Dr Shava’s own acting tenure began after Manase’s suspension in July 2022. A brief attempt to rotate the position to Ms Agnes Masiiwa was reversed within 24 hours, highlighting the deep factionalism and governance chaos within NSSA.
The board itself has been no more stable. Since 2015, it has cycled through multiple chairpersons, including Dr Robin Vela, Mrs Daphine Tomana (acting), Mr Cuthbert Chidoori, Dr Percy Toriro, and currently Dr Emmanuel Fundira. Each leadership transition has raised questions about the long-term direction, transparency, and accountability of the fund.
Government Response and Accountability Gaps
Dr Fundira told The Sunday Mail that the appointment process for the substantive general manager was ongoing and involved several state agencies. He declined to confirm whether Dr Shava would be officially appointed.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness,” Dr Fundira said. “The due process is being followed.”
Efforts to get a comment from CGU head Mr Allen Choruma were unsuccessful.
Public calls are growing louder for NSSA to redirect its resources to the pensioners it was established to protect, rather than enriching a revolving door of executives. Civil society groups, labour unions, and opposition politicians have repeatedly demanded a forensic audit of the fund’s financial records and a parliamentary inquiry into the rampant mismanagement.
As pensioners continue to suffer in silence, the unfolding scandal at NSSA stands as yet another symbol of elite enrichment at the expense of Zimbabwe’s most vulnerable citizens.
By Business Reporter – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has stepped in to block an attempt by senior executives at the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) to award themselves exorbitant salaries and perks while pensioners continue to endure dire conditions.
The Corporate Governance Unit (CGU) in the Office of the President and Cabinet rejected a proposed benefits package for acting general manager Dr Charles Shava, deeming it inconsistent with public sector remuneration frameworks. The CGU directed the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to intervene and develop appropriate salary structures.
Dr Shava’s proposed package included a basic salary of US$15,730, a luxury house, fully paid international holidays, private security, and 100% school fees coverage for three children—perks far removed from the reality faced by pensioners who receive less than US$50 a month.
This development rekindles public outrage over NSSA’s history of financial mismanagement. In 2019, former Public Service Minister Prisca Mupfumira was arrested over allegations she looted over US$95 million from NSSA during her tenure. The scandal exposed systemic abuse of pension funds, leaving thousands of elderly Zimbabweans destitute.
Since 2015, NSSA has suffered instability marked by frequent leadership changes and questionable governance. Critics say such dysfunction has eroded the fund’s ability to serve its core mandate—supporting retirees.
The CGU has also flagged discrepancies in other senior staff contracts and ordered a downward review of benefits, citing Section 20(2) of the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act, which restricts remuneration to a percentage of the entity’s operational budget.
While NSSA’s board insists the selection of a substantive general manager is ongoing, observers argue that without leadership accountability, pensioners’ plight will persist. The scandal underscores the urgent need for sweeping reform to protect Zimbabwe’s vulnerable retirees from elite self-enrichment schemes.
Jah Prayzah’s Loyalty to Wicknell Chivayo Sparks Fan Backlash and Celebrity Rift
Harare – 11 May 2025
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | Zimbabwean music sensation Jah Prayzah has found himself at the center of a firestorm after social media erupted in debate over his continued association with controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo—an alliance that has now cost him fans and ignited a deep rift within the local entertainment and activist community.
The spark came from a viral post by activist and influencer Jethro (@Brian__Jethro), who shared a photo of himself standing before a luxury Range Rover at Exquisite Motors with the personalized plate “WAGWIZI,” captioned with a blunt statement:
“It’s official, I’m distancing myself from Jah Prayzah. He is part of the problem. I have been in denial for a while but, now I’m done.”
The declaration struck a chord and quickly trended online, drawing hundreds of thousands of impressions within hours.
A Divisive Symbol of Power
The controversy stems from Chivayo’s high-profile gifting of luxury cars to entertainers and church leaders seen as allies or “praise agents,” even as his name remains entangled in investigations over suspicious financial flows and alleged misuse of state contracts. Jah Prayzah, who has previously accepted a luxury vehicle from Chivayo and continues to publicly associate with him, is now viewed by critics as compromising his artistic message and integrity.
While some social media users applauded Jethro’s bold stance, others slammed him for expecting artists to become political martyrs.
“Jah has five kids, 24 band members… he has to make choices that put food on his table,” said entrepreneur Mudiwa Hood, defending the singer.
Jethro later responded: “I think you are very correct, I stand to be corrected.”
Yet others doubled down, calling Jah Prayzah’s association with Chivayo a betrayal of the people.
“You want Jah to fight your battles while you do nothing?” one user fired. “Show us the way if you’re serious.”
Another viral tweet mocked the hypocrisy:
“No one discriminates against Wicknell’s pilot, his barber, or his PA… but it’s JP that shouldn’t eat?”
Artists Split, Fans Divided
The backlash has extended into Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry, with fellow artist Bruce Dormice siding with Jethro, tweeting:
“No smart artist compromises themselves like this and still thinks they are an artist with a message for the masses. No ways.”
Some fans, like @MightyManOfValor, welcomed the dissociation:
“Welcome to the light, chana.”
Others dismissed Jethro altogether, with @VictorMoyo572 bluntly stating:
“Enda iwe. Jah Prayzah doesn’t even know who the hell you are.”
The Bigger Picture: Culture Meets Corruption
This latest controversy once again puts Chivayo at the center of a cultural debate over money, power, and morality. As Zimbabwe reels under economic hardship and a failing healthcare system, Chivayo’s display of wealth—and those who align with it—are increasingly seen as tone-deaf or complicit.
Jah Prayzah, revered for blending traditional themes with contemporary sound, now finds himself torn between loyalty, livelihood, and a growing call for ethical leadership in the arts.
Whether the superstar responds remains to be seen—but for now, the hashtag #WagwiziCulture has become a trending indictment of celebrity silence and state-sponsored glamor.
Jah Prayzah did not respond to requests for comment.
Former Mthuli Ncube operator, Acie Lumumba (Gerald Mutumanje) has issued a video accusing war veteran Blessed Geza, saying he will get people in trouble.
Mutumanje’s video was titled, “What is going in Zimbabwe and where do we go next with Geza or with Tagwirei?”
Geza had not commented over the “Johnny-come-late’s” allegation.
Mutumanje said: “I want to unpack what is going on in Zimbabwe and where do we go next.
“I haven’t been that active in politics, but I realize perhaps I need to chip in. I want to talk about Geza. I am going in a minute to help you understand him better. And I also want to talk about, I want to go back to but this time, I’m hoping you can understand it better.
“Let me give some context to this. There is factional politics in Zimbabwe, 100% there is factional politics across the world. There is factional politics in South African politics, in ANC politics, in the United Kingdom politics and American politics. So push aside the idea that is a factional politics or not, there is factional politics. Okay, now I want to talk about then.
“Why does Geza matter? Or does it? Let me give a disclaimer. I have never met Geza.
“I don’t know Geza, he strikes me as somebody who is on a suicide mission.
“And he’s not just on a suicide mission. He’s wearing a suicide vest, and he wants to take others with them.
“Let me explain. Anytime I see someone who is always by themselves and it’s only them who’s speaking, it’s a red flag to me.
“It makes me realize that what Geza is doing is not about Geza. It’s about Sorry, what Geza is doing is not about you, it’s about him.
“So I don’t believe that Geza understands the future that he wants to campaign for.
“I’m not sure there’s any business or investor with Geza ever walked into your office, you would take him seriously. He’s not fit for medical policy anywhere in the world. If he walks into any medical insurance, they consider him high risk. They wouldn’t give him one. If he walks into a funeral parlor, they wouldn’t even give him a funeral policy.
“I have no nothing against Geza. I don’t know him like I said. I just want you to understand that Geza is not the answer. In fact, Geza will get you hurt. I will start listening to Geza when he starts aligning with ……., when he starts aligning with Nelson Chamisa, when he starts aligning with Kudakwashe Musasiwa, they’ve all been there before, doing exactly the same thing that he thinks he’s doing.
“Why is he not going to sit down with them first? In fact, before you had even started this what you you know, one of the fundamental pillars that made November work, when the coup, that’s not a coup happened, is there was very, very good alignment and interdependence from invested groups, organizations and political associations. That was a very big secret to it. I don’t trust gaysm So whatever it is that you think he’s doing, I know he will end you in a lot of trouble.
“There is a reason the event, memory, record date, didn’t work that maybe I’ve never spoken about, I’ve never heard anybody speak about it’s whenever you do this kind of things like stay aways, like marches, like coming out on the streets, the trouble and the problem is, in the end, people go home. So you’re talking about people who come out. They wear a flag, the tie flag, on their on their necks, even if the police don’t touch them. But at certain point they have to go home. They have microwave food that they must eat. They have school tomorrow, work tomorrow, and they stop. The revolts that have worked. The greatest are revolt so people don’t go home. So you cannot make it an event. You have to make it a revolt. And that’s very, very dangerous for me to think about a revolt that is led by Geza. So sorry, I’m not I’m not on the bus. I’m not on the bus. But now let me talk about Queen B. I also have to equally give context and back story to this. I want to give a disclaimer that I actually know COVID.”
In what residents are calling a “Wicknell Chivayo-inspired spending spree,” the Municipality of Gwanda has come under fire for floating a tender to procure six top-of-the-range vehicles for senior management—despite a backdrop of collapsing service delivery, unpaid salaries, and dire infrastructure decay.
The proposed fleet includes luxury models such as two Toyota Fortuner 4×4 SUVs and a Toyota Hilux GD6, raising alarm among residents who likened the council’s priorities to those of controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, known for flaunting designer cars while public institutions crumble.
Luxury First, Services Last
According to the recent public tender notice, Gwanda Municipality plans to acquire a minibus, two single-cab utility vehicles, and three high-end models for top officials. The Gwanda Progressive Residents Association (GPRA) has described the move as a gross misallocation of resources that starkly contrasts the town’s daily realities.
“Gwanda has no working sewage treatment plant. The dumpsite is in a residential zone. There’s no functioning ambulance. Staff haven’t been paid. But the council wants Fortuners?” questioned GPRA chairperson Collet Moyo in a strongly worded letter to the Town Clerk, Ms Priscillar Nkala.
“This is Chivayo economics,” he added. “Luxury for the powerful while the town rots.”
Council Defends Purchases
Town Clerk Ms Nkala defended the procurement, stating that the council followed all formal procedures, including acquiring Cabinet Authority that outlines specifications for government vehicle purchases.
“These are not luxury items,” she said. “They are management tools. The vehicles will be procured in phases, depending on available funds. Conditions of service entitle some staff to official vehicles, and that standard cannot be lowered because of public perception.”
But her explanations have done little to calm outrage.
Residents Say They’re Tired of Excuses
GPRA secretary-general Methuseli Moyo said residents are tired of being told to wait while flashy acquisitions are made at their expense.
“It’s been seven years without a working sewage plant. Street lights are dead. The dumpsite is hazardous. And now we’re told that Fortuners are a service delivery tool?” Moyo said. “Let’s float tenders for restoring basic amenities first, not pampering executives.”
A Growing National Pattern
This controversy is part of a broader trend that many are calling the “Chivayo Culture”—a reference to Wicknell Chivayo’s habit of spending lavishly on luxury cars and rewarding public praise with expensive gifts. While Chivayo is currently under investigation by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Unit over suspicious transactions, Zimbabwean authorities have remained silent on his local dealings.
Critics argue that public institutions have begun emulating the same ethos: indulgence at the top, and neglect for everyone else.
Symbol of Broken Priorities
With Gwanda’s residents struggling to access clean water, reliable healthcare, and safe streets, the tendering of high-end vehicles has become a symbol of misplaced governance priorities.
“Service delivery is not measured in Fortuners,” said one Gwanda resident on social media. “It’s measured in working toilets, clean streets, and paid workers.”
As pressure mounts, civil society groups are calling for the immediate suspension of the vehicle tender and an emergency audit of council priorities.
“We’re not saying don’t buy cars,” concluded GPRA’s Collet Moyo. “We’re saying: fix the sewage first.”
War veteran Blessed Geza has accused the Zanu PF leader Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa of bribing some army commanders.
” Why are some army commanders silent while Emmerson Mnangagwa is looting State funds at will? Kuda Tagwirei is stealing State cash at will because he is close to Mr Mnangagwa.”
Harare, Zimbabwe –Zimbabwe’s main opposition leader, Advocate Nelson Chamisa, on Friday met prominent journalist Blessed Mhlanga during an event hosted by the European Union in Zimbabwe. The meeting was a powerful moment of solidarity between political leadership and independent journalism amid growing concerns over media freedom in the country.
Chamisa took to social media to express his admiration for Mhlanga, describing him as a symbol of courage and commitment to truth-telling. “A HAPPY MOMENT… It was such a good time and happy moment to meet with the persecuted journalist Dhara @bbmhlanga at the @euinzim event in Harare last night,” Chamisa said in a statement. “His passion for credible and responsible journalism is so solid and infectious! #FreeZimbabwe #TheNew”
Mhlanga, a veteran journalist with a track record of hard-hitting stories, made headlines recently after enduring a harrowing 72-day imprisonment. His arrest stemmed from his interview with Blessed Geza, a vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The detention sparked an outcry among press freedom advocates and human rights organizations who accused the state of silencing dissenting voices.
Chamisa praised Mhlanga’s resilience and commitment to ethical journalism, calling him “a fearless journalist determined to serve without fear.” The opposition leader’s remarks highlight the increasing threats faced by media practitioners in Zimbabwe and the need for greater protection of press freedoms.
The encounter between Chamisa and Mhlanga not only underscored the challenges of working in Zimbabwe’s restrictive media environment but also offered a rare moment of hope and recognition for those who continue to speak truth to power.
As the country inches toward future elections and civic reforms, voices like Mhlanga’s remain critical in holding power to account and informing the public.
BY DR MASIMBA MAVAZA | In a British Parliament where the legislators and the Lords were discussing issues on the protection of journalists, a certain Lord who is confused by ego snapped out of topic and started to berate the First Lady of Zimbabwe.
What Lord Oates did not know is that the First Lady of Zimbabwe is not a politician. She is a philanthropist and a mother to her nation. The First Lady, like most First Ladies, cannot control the police or the justice system. Lord Oates had even incited ministers and people to besiege the First Lady of Zimbabwe and question her on issues she has no say in.
It is important to understand the work of the First Lady of Zimbabwe.
The First Lady of Zimbabwe, Auxillia Mnangagwa, has undertaken numerous initiatives to improve the lives of Zimbabweans, particularly women and vulnerable communities. Some of her notable works include Empowering Women and Girls:
Providing sanitary wear to poor women and girls, and promoting menstrual hygiene through reusable sanitary wear clubs.
The First Lady offers scholarships to girls from underprivileged communities to stem child marriages and ensure access to education.
Initiating women empowerment projects, such as livestock ownership and handcrafts, to improve their economic well-being. She has established a bank which caters for the interests of the women. The very first women’s bank in the world is in Zimbabwe. The First Lady improves the lives of an African girl child. This is the work which angers Lord John Oates. His fight against the First Lady has nothing to do with politics but pure anti-African action by Lord Oates.
In pursuing the girl child track, the First Lady initiated Healthcare Initiatives.
Unlike what John Oates does for his people, the First Lady is providing free medical specialist services to marginalized communities through outreach programs.
The First Lady of Zimbabwe is offering accessible and free cervical, breast, and prostate cancer screening. This John Oates can never dream of doing in his lifetime.
Unlike John Oates, the First Lady launched the National Human Papillomavirus Vaccination program to benefit over 800,000 girls. This John Oates has never done even for his own children, yet he has the guts to intimidate the First Lady of Zimbabwe. In all the languages on earth, John Oates is described as a coward who is only good at intimidating women in action.
In case Lord Oates has forgotten, the First Lady has again made sure that Food Security and Nutrition is sufficient for the people of Zimbabwe.
She implemented a nationwide school feeding program to address poor school performance due to malnutrition and hunger. She promoted nutrition gardens and fishponds to enhance food self-sufficiency.
She is taking a lead in Community Development:
Working with traditional leaders’ spouses as agents of change and empowerment.
The First Lady initiated projects to promote environmental preservation and sustainable livelihoods.
Can someone tell Lord Oates that the First Lady of Zimbabwe is providing support to marginalized communities, such as the San and Doma people of Zimbabwe.
The First Lady has become an advocate of awareness: advocating for safe sanitary wear and menstrual hygiene.
Raising awareness about cervical and breast cancer, and promoting health-seeking behaviors. She has continued engaging men in discussions on gender-based violence, child marriages, and sexual abuse. This is what Zimbabweans are happy about and, surprisingly, this is what John Oates hates so much.
John Oates must realise that the First Lady’s efforts have been recognized both locally and internationally, inspiring other African First Ladies to replicate her initiatives. She has been appointed Ambassador for Health and Childcare, Patron of Environment, and Ambassador for Days for Girls, among other roles.
It is surprising that some Zimbabweans like Hopewell Goat Chin’ono are supporting Lord Oates to undermine the First Lady. The First Lady of Zimbabwe must not be intimidated by the coward Lord Oates.
HOW GAMBAKWE HAS JAILED NYOKAYEMABHUNU WITH FAKE 50 GEZA SOLDIERS STORY
Three weeks after the YouTuber, Pardon Gambakwe, had falsely claimed on 20 March 2025 that the Blessed Geza movement’s 31 March protest was struggling for finances—just as he also claimed that he had pictures of injuries he said he sustained from poisoning by Emmerson Mnangagwa in July 2024—a large group of mostly fake protesters were captured by unknown men on 13 April 2025.
Around this time, the ZimEye news network had raised a red flag that citizens who were engaging Gambakwe and a woman only identified as Chimhamha were either regime agents or people sacrificing (kuchekeresa) innocent people. Later, over 200 predominantly fake-activists were kidnapped on 13 April 2025, after the ZANU PF activist Wellington Masiwa (Nyokayemabhunhu) was trapped using a financial donations trick.
“If I show you injuries that I got from the poisoning in Zambia some of you won’t sleep over what happened; these people are witches; Mnangagwa and his family they are witches,” announced Gambakwe as he dangled bank account numbers for donations for the 31 March demonstration, whose organisers had however made clear that it doesn’t need any money. (video loading below)
HOW GAMBAKWE HAS JAILED NYOKAYEMABHUNU WITH FAKE 50 GEZA SOLDIERS STORY
Three weeks after the YouTuber, Pardon Gambakwe, had falsely claimed on 20 March 2025 that the Blessed Geza movement’s 31 March protest was struggling for finances—just as he also claimed that he had… https://t.co/Hn8KhXSFAxpic.twitter.com/FptFHxkoSW
Gambakwe did not stop there, but went on to make further announcements to the effect that he represents the group that was arranging the demonstration. As if that was not enough, his mouth took another twist this time to name drop Blessed Geza, the war veteran, whose protest he alleged was going to fail because it does not have money.
“We are on our own,” he said.
He then went on to impose Geza’s name onto the self styled activist Wellington Masiwa, in a way that is bound to now implicate the war veteran over Gambakwe’s own fund raising trick. Unbeknown to his victims, the method was for the purpose of ensnaring many victims.
He said: “…2 million US dollars. The people from Dubai have given them $300,000, which they when they bought scarf, they bought it for 300,000, so unfortunately, on the side of Geza.
“Ah, Cde Nyokayemabhunu, I was talking to him. Ah, less than an hour ago, there is no money. There’s no funding available, so we are on our own. This man Mnangagwa is putting everything, all the resources, to remove. Don’t let this man come back. Mnangagwa had gone, but…,” he said.
How presidential spokesman George Charamba is gyrating over the matter is a program funded by a ZANU PF Sandton branch that had by this time pulled together a total R6mil to finance a counterintelligence operation that was hoped would lead to the arrest of Masiwa and Geza. Lawyers struggled to locate the group throughout the day as Masiwa was tortured.
At the end of the day, he was located at Central Police Station, where a certain male named Honest Sibanda asked officers to charge Masiwa over theft of R25,000. The police officers responsible for the arrest were receiving orders from the said Sibanda, ZimEye sources reveal.
In the conversation, Masiwa confirmed to the police that he recognises Sibanda. The officers were being fed this information as Sibanda was trying to create a docket over the R25,000. Masiwa acknowledged receiving the money. Sibanda failed to prove evidence of the handover of the money. Sibanda also failed to prove that the money was obtained through deception.
Masiwa declared that the money was for the demo’s needs and was distributed among his campaign team. As a result, the charge over the R25,000 was abandoned. Masiwa is now battling immigration charges.
To this day, Gambakwe has failed to reveal the injuries he once announced that he sustained at Mnangagwa’s hands. He has also refused to reverse his statements with which he continues to attempt to link Masiwa with the war veteran Geza and or members of the security forces, soldiers.
On 10 May, he broadcast a video with which he claimed that so-called 50 Geza soldiers were arrested on 14 April. ZimEye replays a recording of him as he was confronted for answers.- ZimEye
By Dr Masimba Mavaza and Ilyana Sithole. | A heartfelt tribute to a long-serving worker as we acknowledge his years of dedication, The impact he made on those he met no one is able to explain it. All we can do expresses appreciation for his contributions. It’s a chance to recognize his loyalty and celebrate his legacy within Zimbabwe and all our embassies dotted across the world.
Zimbabweans across the United Kingdom and around the world are in mourning at the death of John Takaendesa Ushe, whose quiet devotion and tireless work ethic earned him the status of colossus of Zimbabwe House in London for a staggering 45 years. Mr. Ushe, who died peacefully on May 6th, 2025, at the age of 79, leaves behind a legacy of devotion, experience, and profound national love.
Announcement of the great caretaker of the London embassy
Born on September 17th, 1945, at Chivhu, Mashonaland East, John was the fifth child of seven Early life at Tegwani High School fostered a keen mind, especially an affinity for mathematics and puzzles. His adventurous spirit took him to Europe in 1970 and in 1972 he made his way to the United Kingdom. In 1975 after pursuing further education he received a Higher National Diploma in Electrical Engineering from North East London Polytechnic.
Despite his noteworthy academic endeavors Mr. Ushe’s impact was primarily defined by his natural kindness and desire to assist others. He served as a crucial point of contact for numerous Zimbabweans who came to the UK in the 1970s and later providing them with direction and assistance as they made their way through a foreign nation. Many people found their place and started a life in the UK thanks to his unifying presence.
It was in 1981 that Mr. Ushe started his remarkable streak at Zimbabwe House. As embassy security and caretaker, he was a treasure, the longest-serving employee in the history of Zimbabwean embassies. For more than four and a half decades, he saw the tide and decline of diplomatic life under two presidents, Robert Mugabe and Emmerson Mnangagwa, his commitment a reflection of his intense national pride and unbreakable loyalty to Zimbabwe. He has seen several Ambassadors coming and going as he manned the gates of the embassy and catching the wind of any gossip and any issue.
He was a introvert onlooker, a historian of embassy life, a treasure trove of the past with an exceptional knowledge of embassy complexities. All this accumulated experience has now vanished with his passing away.
Outside of his work, Mr. Ushe discovered long-lasting joy with his wife, Gertrude (nee Ngombe), to whom he was married in May 1984. Their union was one of strength and happiness, and the couple created a happy family consisting of seven children and seven grandchildren.
As Ushe departs we bid farewell to a dedicated and valued member of our team. His contributions over the years have been immense, and his presence will be deeply missed.
We’re grateful for Ushe’s commitment, expertise, and passion. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he has touched and the work he has accomplished.
We’ll remember his [unique qualities, achievements, or memories]. His dedication to our country and colleagues has been inspiring.
Though he is no longer with us physically, his impact will remain. We’ll continue his work, building on the foundations Ushe has laid.
Farewell, and may his memory be a blessing to us all.”
To his close acquaintances, John Ushe was a friend or colleague but far more. He was a stalwart member of the Zimbabwean community in Britain, an unsung hero whose commitment and service touched many an individual’s existence. We will deeply miss his constant presence, his readiness to help and his strong ties to Zimbabwe, a void noone can replace.
Mr. Ushe is survived by his wife, Gertrude, his seven children, and seven grandchildren. His legacy of strength, wisdom, and love will surely be continued through them. Zimbabweans in the UK and back home lament his passing by recalling a humble man whose passion and commitment had left an indelible mark in the country’s diplomatic history as well as in the lives of people around the world. He will be missed for being profoundly present, but never forgotten for the long and arduous dedication that he served. He didn’t just do his job he inspired excellence.” His work ethic set the standard for all of us.” He led by example and mentored with patience. His dedication transformed our embassy.
Zimbabwe is so proud to have Ushe as part of our work family. We hope that his predecessor will keep up the good work for many years to come!
To the Ushe family we say Thank you for giving us Cde Ushe for 45 years he was such a valuable member of our team and nation.
Only God can comfort you in this dark moment.-ZimEye
BetPokies.org is one of the top gambling review platforms in Australia, and for a good reason: they always share top-notch and fresh content. The platform was launched by John Gold back in 2020. John himself is a very experienced gambler, having more than 10 years of experience in the industry. The website, which is managed by ZehrMedia LTD, keeps growing and improving, attracting more and more new readers. We had wanted to meet John Gold for a long time, and today, we finally got a chance to ask him about BetPokies’ path to impressive success and the role of Australian gambling laws along the way.
More About Sought-After BetPokies: the Leading Casino-Related Platform in Australia
Hi, John! We’re happy to see you here in our office finally. It’s been a while since our last conversation, so we’re very pleased to have you here today. Coming to the topic of today’s meeting, we would like to express how impressed we are with such rapid BetPokies growth and development! Can you please share with us what are the main values you put into your work that attract customers this much?
Hello, thank you so much for having me! It’s such a pleasure for me to talk with you today. It’s easy to answer this question because, from the very beginning of this project, I already knew that my main goal was to help people and make their lives a little bit easier. Nowadays, there is a lot of fake information on the Internet, especially related to the sphere of gambling. I faced this problem much more than once when I was a newcomer. After I gained some experience, I realised that I could change something by creating my own info-hub with everything you need to know about gambling and online casinos. Answering your question, our main value is honesty and transparency in our content. I believe that it attracts readers the most to our platform because we always guarantee only high-class service. You can be sure that everything posted on our website is up-to-date and verified through several trustworthy sources.
Thank you, John! It’s actually very noticeable how much effort you put into your work. BetPokies is a really comprehensive website with content on what seems like every aspect of gambling! We want to know how you think the Aussie gambling rules have changed BetPokies and the whole gambling world. Can you please share your thoughts about this?
That’s a great question, I’ll be happy to answer. Of course, the Australian gambling laws have a great impact on the online casino world. We also have a separate article with the most detailed and useful information about this topic on our BetPokies.org website, since it’s an important thing you need to pay attention to. Due to Australian gambling regulations, there is a list of restrictions for both online casinos and gambling review platforms. For example, players can’t use credit cards for deposits and withdrawals in any licensed online casinos, which has been prohibited since 2021. Also, there are no mobile applications available for gambling platforms on the territory of the country, which can be a little inconvenient sometimes as well. These are the most popular restrictions within online casinos. However, it’s important to mention that every state and territory in Australia has its own regulations, which we explained in detail on the page I mentioned earlier. For BetPokies, gambling laws also make a difference. In our situation, we need to be careful with the information we provide to our customers. It’s forbidden to place an advertisement in any online casino. However, it is good to know that BetPokies is safe here since we only share the most truthful information about every gambling aspect without any ads.
You’re totally right about the importance of knowing all the details about gambling regulations in Australia. We highly recommend that everyone check out the BetPokies page you’re referring to because it indeed contains the most essential data. Coming to the topic of safety, we would like to know how you promote responsible gambling among your readers and what you offer them to avoid or overcome the playing addiction. Is there anything specific you can do about that?
Totally, yes. As I already mentioned, our readers are our main priority, so we make sure to do everything we can to popularise responsible playing. First of all, we created a very comprehensive guide for Aussie players on how to gamble responsibly, it can be found on our website. Also, there’s a short, interactive quiz to determine if you have an addiction to playing. For that, you just need to answer several simple questions. It won’t take more than a minute, and you’ll get the result immediately. Moreover, we provide our readers with the contacts of organisations that offer support and consultations for those players who struggle with a gambling addiction. Remember that casinos are only for entertainment, not for earning money, so do not hesitate to ask for help if needed and play responsibly!
We agree with you, John, and it’s from where our last question comes — given your professional experience, what could you recommend to someone just coming into the casino world for the first time? Any tips?
The main thing, of course, that I can mention here is just to stay cold-headed. Sometimes, there are overwhelming moments because of the emotions you go through, but it is so vital to stay cool, set a budget limit, and spend funds only because you can afford such expenses. Trust me, with this approach, it’s possible to let your playing journey bring no harm. Stay tuned for more information that we prepared on BetPokies!
We are, therefore, very grateful to John Gold for his time and comprehensive answers. Also, we once again invite you to visit BetPokies.org to find out more about iGaming!
By A Correspondent – Police in Masvingo have arrested Victoria High School headmaster, Lovemore Chabaya, on allegations of corruption involving fraudulent travel and subsistence (T&S) claims.
Chabaya appeared at the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court this week, facing fraud charges related to facilitating double claims for T&S allowances for a senior official in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
He is jointly charged with Chivi District Schools Inspector (DSI), Evershine Ndongwe, who allegedly claimed US$355 in allowances and fuel for a trip to Bulawayo to collect a 72-seater bus procured from Vordim Bus Company on behalf of Ngundu High School.
Ndongwe has also been implicated in a separate case involving the Masvingo Provincial Education Director, Shylatte Mhike, and Provincial Education Finance Director, Liniah Chinoda. The trio is accused of making false travel and allowance claims.
Magistrate Franklin Mkwananzi refused to place Chabaya and Ndongwe on remand, ruling that the State was not ready to proceed with the trial. Prosecutor Godknows Mugondo informed the court that the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) had not yet submitted crucial documents for the case. The accused will be summoned to court at a later date.
Ngundu High School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, Zivai Tinago, is the complainant in the matter, representing the State. The two accused are being represented by Takunda Chikwati of Matutu and Mureri Legal Practitioners.
According to court documents, Chabaya previously served as headmaster at Ngundu High before his transfer to Chongogwe Secondary. In January 2024, Ngundu High arranged to collect a newly procured school bus from Bulawayo. Acting on Chabaya’s guidance, the school administration and SDC resolved to send a nine-member delegation—including Ndongwe—to retrieve the bus.
Despite his transfer, Chabaya allegedly remained a signatory to Ngundu High’s bank account. He is accused of authorizing a withdrawal of US$1,983 for the trip, with US$525 allocated to himself and Ndongwe. Ndongwe reportedly received US$200 for fuel and US$155 in T&S allowances, while Chabaya was paid US$170 in T&S.
Court papers suggest that although the fuel money was supposedly split into two US$100 amounts, both men used a single vehicle for the journey. ZACC investigations later revealed that Ndongwe submitted a second set of claims for the same expenses at his district office, leading to fraud charges.
“The school accountant, Ranganai Muchemedzi, and SDC vice chairperson, Retty Mutete, withdrew the funds and handed US$525 to Chabaya at Chibi Turn-Off,” reads part of the court submission. “Of this, US$155 was for Ndongwe’s T&S, US$200 for fuel, and US$170 for Chabaya’s T&S.”
In February 2024, Muchemedzi reportedly asked Chabaya—via district accountant Tapiwa Mapindani—for fuel receipts to acquit the US$200. The two accused allegedly conspired to procure fake receipts from an undisclosed Canrid Service Station, listing the buyer as the Better Schools Programme – Chivi District. Chabaya then submitted the receipts to Muchemedzi to validate the fuel expenses.
Both men were arrested by ZACC following the investigation.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has released a comprehensive report detailing its achievements in the first 100 days since the new executive assumed office, signaling a bold push toward reform, transparency, and technical excellence in the administration of football.
According to the report, ZIFA has made significant strides across multiple fronts, with 82% of its institutional reform objectives already achieved or actively in progress. The association emphasized that it had remained faithful to the campaign manifesto, More Than A Game, which outlined five strategic pillars guiding their tenure.
“From the onset, our team articulated a bold vision in the campaign manifesto titled More Than A Game, anchored on five catalytic pillars,” ZIFA said in a statement. “In the first 100 days, we have remained steadfast in translating these pillars into tangible action.”
Among the most notable achievements is the initiation of 100% of priority institutional audits, reflecting a commitment to accountability and transparency. The report also highlights that all key strategic initiatives are under active implementation, reinforcing the executive’s hands-on approach.
“We are building a strong and accountable institution,” ZIFA said. “Institutional audits are not just checkboxes; they are foundational to regaining the trust of our stakeholders.”
The association also reported encouraging progress in gender representation. A total of 36 women have been appointed to leadership positions within ZIFA, representing 28.6% of its leadership team. This development has been hailed as a deliberate step toward inclusivity and diversity.
“This is not tokenism. Women in sport must be seen, heard, and empowered,” ZIFA stated.
On the technical front, eight strategic initiatives are currently underway, with a focus on developing football talent and coaching capacity across all levels. The association emphasized the importance of enhancing Zimbabwe’s technical prowess, stating, “Technical excellence is the bedrock of competitive football. We are investing in our people, our knowledge systems, and our long-term potential.”
To support growth and sustainability, ZIFA reported that 10 formal partnerships or engagements have been initiated in the first three months, ranging from corporate sponsorships to development collaborations.
“Forging meaningful partnerships is central to our strategy,” the report reads. “Whether it’s corporate sponsors, development agencies, or international football bodies, we’re creating win-win opportunities.”
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the association’s long-term vision.
“Our 100-day milestone is not a destination; it’s a signal of intent. The work continues,” ZIFA said.
A proposed policy by Zimbabwe’s Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) to introduce mandatory retesting for all licensed drivers has triggered widespread public outrage, with citizens slamming the plan as a thinly veiled attempt to extract money from an already struggling population.
The move comes in response to a worrying rise in road traffic accidents. According to data from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the country recorded over 52,000 traffic crashes in 2024, a 17% spike from the previous year.
Tragically, more than 2,000 fatalities were reported, with over 90% of the crashes attributed to human error.
In a stakeholder meeting involving transport operators, the police, and urban development officials, VID official Onesimo Bumhira announced that the government intends to introduce expiry dates on driver’s licences. Under the proposed system, motorists would be required to undergo medical, vision, and competency evaluations before licence renewals.
“Driver’s physical and medical conditions change with time—some start wearing spectacles, others face cognitive or mobility challenges. These must be factored into continued eligibility to drive,” said Bumhira.
But the public isn’t buying it. The announcement has sparked backlash, with many accusing the government of deflecting blame and creating new ways to collect money rather than addressing the real issues behind the carnage on Zimbabwe’s roads.
Ntema Ndlovu strongly criticized the policy, calling it a “wrong diagnosis” of the road safety crisis.
“After that exercise the problem will continue because this is wrong diagnosis,” Ndlovu said. “The state of our roads is our number one problem—just fix the roads if you are serious about stopping the accidents. The second problem is our police. Whenever they mount roadblocks, they just want to collect money from motorists.”
He also pointed to outdated infrastructure and congestion: “There is too much congestion due to poor road infrastructure. We are seeing an increase in vehicles on our roads yet nothing is being done to increase roads and ranks for commuter omnibuses.”
On the proposed retest, Ndlovu remained skeptical: “Anyone going for a retest will just do it well enough to pass. But once back on these poor roads, they’ll do whatever it takes to manoeuvre around potholes, congestion, and corrupt traffic police.”
Innocent Moyondizvo Nhira echoed the frustration: “Does a retest stop accidents on the state of our hell roads?”
Others were more direct in their condemnation. Theme Sibanda dismissed the plan as blatant exploitation: “Just a stunt to loot money from our drivers for the Zwiganandas. Shame on you, ZANU PF.”
Chausina Gandidzamwa focused his criticism on corruption in enforcement: “A looting scheme. What of the bad roads? VID Zvishavane and ZRP Zvishavane are the most corrupt of them all.”
Despite the backlash, the government has not indicated any shift in position. For many Zimbabweans, however, the message is clear: before drivers are forced to retest, authorities must first address broken infrastructure, corruption, and the systemic failures that make the country’s roads dangerous in the first place.
By Political Reporter-Moses Langa has emerged victorious in the ZANU PF primary election for the Insiza North constituency, defeating more than six other contenders in a tightly contested internal poll held on Saturday.
He now awaits formal confirmation when the Nomination Court sits on May 15.
In Gutu East, Zvarevashe Masvingise will stand as the ZANU PF candidate after winning the primaries conducted earlier on April 16.
The two seats fell vacant following the expulsion of Gutu East legislator Benjamin Ganyiwa for what party officials described as “disciplinary issues,” and the death of Insiza North MP Farai Taruvinga in March this year.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa formally declared the seats vacant following a notice from the Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, under Proclamation 3 of 2025, as gazetted in Statutory Instrument 44A of 2025.
A Party Haunted by Internal Fissures
While Langa’s win appears straightforward on paper, it unfolds against a backdrop of deep-seated factionalism and bruising internal battles that have long defined ZANU PF’s political machinery. Internal primary elections within the ruling party are often marred by accusations of vote-rigging, candidate imposition, intimidation, and violence — factors that have left many losing candidates and grassroots supporters disgruntled over the years.
In recent months, infighting within ZANU PF has intensified, with rival factions allegedly aligned to either President Mnangagwa or his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, using primary contests as a proxy war to assert dominance. In some cases, candidates have accused provincial leaders of manipulating voters’ rolls, bussing in supporters, or using state security agents to influence outcomes.
Langa’s victory in Insiza North could therefore be as much about strategic alignment within party hierarchies as it is about grassroots popularity. Insiders say he enjoyed backing from powerful figures in Matabeleland South, giving him an edge over rivals who were seen as aligned with rival factions.
Elections Under a Cloud of Suspicion
The upcoming by-elections on June 28 will not only test ZANU PF’s internal unity but also its ability to win fairly — a question that has haunted Zimbabwean elections for decades.
ZANU PF has a long history of using state institutions, including the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), traditional leaders, and security services, to tilt the playing field in its favour. Observers from both local and international missions have flagged repeated concerns over biased voter registration practices, lack of transparency in vote counting, and intimidation of opposition supporters — especially in rural constituencies like Insiza and Gutu.
In the controversial 2023 general elections, ZEC was accused of manipulating the delimitation process, delaying voting materials in opposition strongholds, and allowing a pro-ZANU PF group known as Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) to set up exit poll tables outside polling stations — a move widely condemned as voter intimidation.
With the nomination courts set to sit on May 15, all eyes will be on how ZEC conducts itself this time around, and whether the electoral environment allows for a genuinely competitive race. Opposition parties, including Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), are expected to field candidates in both constituencies, though the continued arrests and harassment of opposition leaders and activists suggest a tough road ahead.
Victoria High School head Lovemore Chabaya and Chivi District Schools Inspector Evershine Ndongwe have appeared in court facing allegations of fraud involving double claims for a trip to Bulawayo.
The pair is accused of manipulating travel and fuel allowances during an official mission to collect a new school bus.
The case was heard at the Masvingo Magistrates Court, where presiding Magistrate Franklin Mkwananzi declined to place the accused on remand.
Prosecutor Godknows Mugondo told the court that the State was not yet prepared for trial due to outstanding documents still being held by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
The suspects are expected to be summoned at a later date.
The complaint was lodged by Zivai Tinago, chairperson of the Ngundu High School Development Committee, who is representing the State.
According to court documents, Chabaya—who previously headed Ngundu High School but was later transferred to Chongogwe Secondary—remained a signatory to Ngundu High’s bank account.
In January 2024, Ngundu High School procured a 72-seater bus from Vordim Bus Company in Bulawayo, and Chabaya assisted the administration in organizing a collection trip involving nine officials, including Ndongwe.
Chabaya allegedly signed off on a US$1,983 cash withdrawal for the trip. Of this amount, US$525 was allocated to Chabaya and Ndongwe, covering fuel and travel allowances. Ndongwe reportedly received US$200 for fuel and US$155 in Travel and Subsistence (T&S) allowances, while Chabaya received US$170 as T&S.
Although the two reportedly used a single vehicle for the trip, records indicate that Ndongwe later made a second claim for the same expenses at his official workstation—effectively receiving double payments, according to ZACC investigators.
“The school accountant, Ranganai Muchemedzi, and the SDC vice-chairperson, Retty Mutete, withdrew the funds and met Chabaya at Chibi turn-off, where Muchemedzi handed over the US$525,” the court papers state.
When questioned about receipts to account for the fuel costs, Chabaya and a Ministry accountant, Tapiwa Mapindani, allegedly obtained two fake diesel receipts, each valued at US$100. The receipts bore the name of the Better Schools Programme Chivi District and were sourced from an unnamed Canrid Service Station.
“The receipts were fabricated to make it appear as though the US$200 had been spent on fuel, when in fact it had not,” read the charge sheet. “These fraudulent documents were then submitted to the school accountant in an attempt to acquit the funds.”
ZACC’s investigation has linked Ndongwe to a separate case involving alleged false allowance claims alongside Masvingo Provincial Education Director Shylatte Mhike and Provincial Finance Director Liniah Chinoda, further widening the net in what appears to be a broader probe into misuse of public funds in the education sector.
By A Correspondent- The government is planning to relocate more than 3,600 families in Chivi District to roll out the long-awaited Tugwi Mukosi dam Master Plan
According to a recently released draft of the master plan—now open for public consultation over a three-month period—3,652 households in Chivi and Masvingo Rural Districts are likely to be directly affected, primarily through displacement.
This new round of potential displacements comes on top of the relocation of around 3,300 families a decade ago, who were moved to Chingwizi in Mwenezi after dam waters inundated their homes in the Tugwi-Mukosi basin.
“For Chivi District, the concerned wards have a population of 38,644, while Masvingo Rural District has 35,422 people. However, about 3,652 households are more likely to be directly affected by development in the Tugwi-Mukosi development zone. Most of these households will be displaced,” reads part of the draft plan.
However, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, told TellZim News that relocation would be a last resort.
“The main thrust of the government is on reorganisation or rearrangement for affected families. Displacement would be a last resort.
Government has a clear policy on the relocation of people affected by government programmes,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.
The Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan outlines ambitious proposals for infrastructural, agricultural, tourism, and urban development around the dam, which was commissioned in 2017.
The government has for years promoted the area as a future economic hub for Zimbabwe’s southern region.
Still fresh in the minds of many are the traumatic displacements of 2014, when families were hastily evacuated due to rising waters.
Many of those resettled in Chingwizi continue to live in poor conditions, with limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
The new master plan envisions the creation of irrigation schemes, tourism lodges, fishery projects, urban housing developments, and upgraded road infrastructure to transform the dam’s catchment into a vibrant, multi-use economic zone.
A ZESA electricity transformer was stolen last Tuesday at Dewure Business Centre in Gutu Central, just two months after Member of Parliament Winston Chitando—known ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa—replaced five others previously destroyed by vandals.
The theft has plunged the area into darkness and disrupted economic activity, with several small businesses considering shutting down due to unsustainable operating costs.
“This has seriously affected our operations,” said one local shop owner. “We’re now relying on generators, and fuel is too expensive. If nothing changes soon, we’ll be forced to close.”
The transformer theft has sparked renewed suspicion among residents, many of whom believe the spate of vandalism may involve insiders at ZESA.
“Only people with expert knowledge of the power system can pull this off,” a resident commented. “It’s hard to believe these are just random criminals. This looks like an inside job.”
Chitando, who previously oversaw the restoration of transformers at Devure Clinic, Mukoroverwa Primary School, Jaravaza, Zhavahera, and Tachi business centres, has not issued a direct statement, but party representatives say the issue has been escalated.
“We’ve already engaged ZESA, and they’ve acknowledged the report,” said a Zanu PF official speaking on behalf of Chitando. “They’ve assured us that efforts to restore power are underway.”
As affected businesses struggle to stay afloat, community members are calling for stronger security around essential infrastructure and faster responses from authorities to prevent a repeat of the incident.
By Munacho Gwamanda-The Board Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Freedom From Hunger Campaign (ZFFHC), Dr Godfrey Sikipa, has died.
Dr Sikipa passed away on May 5, 2025, in the United States after a two-year battle with cancer. He had been based in the US for several years.
A funeral service is being held today (Saturday) in the US, with burial arrangements yet to be announced.
In a statement issued on Friday, ZFFHC Executive Director Dr Lamiel Phiri confirmed the news, saying:
“We want to inform you that the Board Chairperson of our organization, Zimbabwe Freedom From Hunger Campaign, Dr Godfrey Sikipa, died on May 5th, 2025, in the USA after a two-year battle with cancer. A funeral service will be held tomorrow, Saturday, in the USA. Our hearts are broken. He served ZFFHC in various capacities for the past 45 years. Let us remember his family in our prayers. Thank you.”
Dr Sikipa was a respected humanitarian who dedicated his life to addressing food insecurity and promoting community welfare in Zimbabwe and abroad.
Zimbabwean lawmakers are urging President Emmerson Mnangagwa to declare the country’s collapsing public health system a national disaster—an urgent call aimed at unlocking emergency resources and galvanizing meaningful intervention.
The plea comes amid mounting public frustration over the deteriorating state of healthcare.
Public hospitals are grappling with acute shortages of essential drugs, medical equipment, and staff, leaving thousands of patients without adequate care. The crisis reached a tipping point earlier this week when Youth Minister Tino Machakaire broke ranks to publicly plead with the president to step in.
Speaking to a local daily, Chairperson of Parliament’s Health Portfolio Committee, Josiah Makombe, confirmed that Parliament has formally moved to escalate the issue.
“What we have done as a committee is to escalate our engagements on the issues. On Tuesday last week, we initiated the move,” Makombe said.
He stressed that a national disaster declaration could enable the country to attract international support and fast-track funding to the struggling health sector. “We believe this is now beyond ordinary challenges. It’s a humanitarian emergency,” he added.
Makombe’s remarks come as the government faces intensifying criticism over its management of the health system. Basic consumables like gloves and syringes are in short supply. Many patients are forced to buy their own supplies or seek costly private care—an impossible burden for most Zimbabweans.
In a rare show of dissent from within the ruling establishment, Youth Minister Tino Machakaire urged President Mnangagwa to “personally intervene” to revive the nation’s crumbling health institutions.
Meanwhile, frontline health workers continue to speak out about dire working conditions, stagnant wages, and the exodus of skilled professionals.
Makombe made it clear that symbolic gestures are no longer enough. “This is not just about drugs and doctors. It’s about the very survival of our people,” he said. “Declaring a state of disaster would allow us to treat it with the urgency it deserves.”
As of now, there has been no official response from the Office of the President. But with pressure mounting from both Parliament and the public, the demand for decisive leadership grows louder by the day.
A proposed policy by Zimbabwe’s Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) to introduce mandatory retesting for all licensed drivers has triggered widespread public outrage, with citizens slamming the plan as a thinly veiled attempt to extract money from an already struggling population.
The move comes in response to a worrying rise in road traffic accidents. According to data from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the country recorded over 52,000 traffic crashes in 2024, a 17% spike from the previous year.
Tragically, more than 2,000 fatalities were reported, with over 90% of the crashes attributed to human error.
In a stakeholder meeting involving transport operators, the police, and urban development officials, VID official Onesimo Bumhira announced that the government intends to introduce expiry dates on driver’s licences. Under the proposed system, motorists would be required to undergo medical, vision, and competency evaluations before licence renewals.
“Driver’s physical and medical conditions change with time—some start wearing spectacles, others face cognitive or mobility challenges. These must be factored into continued eligibility to drive,” said Bumhira.
But the public isn’t buying it. The announcement has sparked backlash, with many accusing the government of deflecting blame and creating new ways to collect money rather than addressing the real issues behind the carnage on Zimbabwe’s roads.
Ntema Ndlovu strongly criticized the policy, calling it a “wrong diagnosis” of the road safety crisis.
“After that exercise the problem will continue because this is wrong diagnosis,” Ndlovu said. “The state of our roads is our number one problem—just fix the roads if you are serious about stopping the accidents. The second problem is our police. Whenever they mount roadblocks, they just want to collect money from motorists.”
He also pointed to outdated infrastructure and congestion: “There is too much congestion due to poor road infrastructure. We are seeing an increase in vehicles on our roads yet nothing is being done to increase roads and ranks for commuter omnibuses.”
On the proposed retest, Ndlovu remained skeptical: “Anyone going for a retest will just do it well enough to pass. But once back on these poor roads, they’ll do whatever it takes to manoeuvre around potholes, congestion, and corrupt traffic police.”
Innocent Moyondizvo Nhira echoed the frustration: “Does a retest stop accidents on the state of our hell roads?”
Others were more direct in their condemnation. Theme Sibanda dismissed the plan as blatant exploitation: “Just a stunt to loot money from our drivers for the Zwiganandas. Shame on you, ZANU PF.”
Chausina Gandidzamwa focused his criticism on corruption in enforcement: “A looting scheme. What of the bad roads? VID Zvishavane and ZRP Zvishavane are the most corrupt of them all.”
Despite the backlash, the government has not indicated any shift in position. For many Zimbabweans, however, the message is clear: before drivers are forced to retest, authorities must first address broken infrastructure, corruption, and the systemic failures that make the country’s roads dangerous in the first place.
Picture: Nelson Chamisa With Dhara Blessed Mhlanga
Nelson Chamisa on Saturday:
A HAPPY MOMENT…It was such a good time and happy moment to meet with the persecuted journalist Dhara @bbmhlanga at the @euinzim event in Harare last night. His passion for credible and responsible… pic.twitter.com/ti9ipaBMh7
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A Malawi-bound Katiso cross-border bus was completely gutted by fire early this morning at Gokomere along the Harare-Masvingo highway. The vehicle, which was carrying passengers destined for Malawi, was reduced to a charred shell in a matter of minutes—but miraculously, no injuries were reported.
According to eyewitnesses and footage shared by Road Watch Zimbabwe, the bus caught fire unexpectedly, forcing passengers to flee for their lives. By the time first responders and local motorists arrived, the vehicle had already been consumed by flames.
One observer, Engr Zinto Zinto, asked for clarification on the cause, prompting others to speculate that the blaze may have been due to engine overheating, a common risk for long-distance buses operating without proper maintenance. “Maybe it’s overheating,” responded a Facebook user, while another added, “These buses travelling long distances easily overheat.”
The incident has reignited concerns over the safety and mechanical integrity of international passenger buses operating across the region.
Meanwhile, in a humorous yet telling comment, Thulani Frank Chimwaza remarked in Shona, “Achimwene varamba kudzokera kumba,” loosely implying that even fate is resisting the idea of some passengers returning home.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the fire’s cause. Investigations are underway.
Passengers are urged to verify transport safety before embarking on long-haul travel.
War veteran Blessed Geza has accused the Zanu PF leader Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa of bribing some army commanders.
” Why are some army commanders silent while Emmerson Mnangagwa is looting State funds at will? Kuda Tagwirei is stealing State cash at will because he is close to Mr Mnangagwa.”
Vatican City – In a historic moment on Thursday, the Roman Catholic Church joyfully announced the election of its new spiritual leader: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV.
The announcement was made from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, who proclaimed in the traditional Latin formula:
“Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum; habemus Papam: Eminentissimum ac Reverendissimum Dominum, Dominum Robertum Franciscum, Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem Prevost, qui sibi nomen imposuit Leo Quartus Decimus.”
Translated: “I announce to you a great joy; we have a Pope: The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Robert Francis, Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost, who has taken the name Leo the Fourteenth.”
Cardinal Prevost, originally from the United States and long admired for his pastoral sensitivity and commitment to justice and unity, becomes the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.
In his first address as Pope Leo XIV, he spoke briefly but warmly to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square: “Dear brothers and sisters, I am humbled by the trust placed in me. Let us walk together in faith, peace, and love, guided by the light of Christ.”
As bells rang across Rome and beyond, Catholics around the world welcomed the new pontiff, anticipating a papacy marked by compassion, reform, and renewed spiritual vigor.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, and his election signals both continuity and a fresh chapter for the global Church.
Victoria Falls – In a move raising eyebrows among digital rights activists, the Zimbabwean government has signaled a heightened push to consolidate control over cyberspace, with officials citing national security and cyber threats as justification.
Speaking at the opening of the SEAT Africa Summit in Victoria Falls, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, revealed plans that could reshape the digital landscape—particularly around social media governance and data monitoring.
“We must take cyber security seriously—not just from an infrastructure standpoint, but also in how information flows across platforms,” she said. “We’re in discussions to restructure the role and training costs of Data Protection Officers, ensuring that our surveillance and data governance tools are not only effective but widely deployed.”
Though framed as an effort to make Data Protection Officer (DPO) training more affordable—currently priced at US$1,250—critics fear the underlying goal is to increase state oversight over digital communications.
“This is not just about reducing training costs,” one cybersecurity analyst said anonymously. “It’s about putting more government eyes on social media, encrypted communication, and data flows.”
Zimbabwe currently ranks 134th globally in terms of exposure to cyber threats, a statistic the government has repeatedly used to justify tighter regulations. However, rights groups warn that these statistics are increasingly being used to silence dissent and curtail freedom of expression online.
Minister Mavetera hinted that outcomes from the summit would influence upcoming policy reforms, particularly in digital governance and procurement. “We are going to embed these insights into our governance systems. We need to adapt quickly to the digital era—and that includes how we manage information and dissent.”
Chairperson of SEAT Africa, Mr. Victor Marawu, took a more business-oriented stance: “Delegates are already identifying actionable insights. The final report will be distributed across Africa to ensure that these learnings benefit both businesses and policymakers.”
Yet, as the government ramps up cyber regulation efforts, questions continue to mount about the real motives behind the push—cybersecurity, or censorship?
“We Were Denied Our Son’s Burial”: A Family Torn Apart Over Burial Rights in Marange
Odzi, Zimbabwe – May 2025
A bitter family feud has erupted in the Marange area of Odzi after a man, Thomas Chirara, stormed Chief Marange’s community court demanding that his nephew’s body be exhumed and reburied at their ancestral home.
Chirara claims his nephew, Kudakwashe Chirara, was buried in secret by his late brother’s in-laws—without consulting or informing the paternal family. Kudakwashe, a man in his early 50s, died recently while living with his mother’s side of the family, the Mwavheras. According to Thomas Chirara, the Mwavheras deliberately excluded his side of the family and even violently blocked them from retrieving the body for burial in Nyagundi, the Chirara family’s traditional resting ground.
Speaking with visible emotion before Chief Marange’s court, Thomas recounted the pain of not only losing a loved one but being stripped of the right to bury him.
“I was assaulted when I tried to attend the funeral. We were told our only job was to dig the grave and perform rituals, but that we had no say in where or how our son would be buried,” he said.
He accused the Mwavhera family of using a longstanding dispute about lobola (bride price) as a pretext to deny the paternal family burial rights. The Mwavheras allege that the Chiraras never formally paid roora for their daughter, Kudakwashe’s mother, and therefore forfeited any rights over him.
“They say we never married their daughter properly. That’s a lie. We have receipts. We paid the bride price. They’re using this to humiliate us,” said Thomas.
He further revealed that the Chirara family had arranged with a funeral parlour to collect the body and transport it to Nyagundi. But their plans were thwarted when the Mwavheras allegedly confronted the funeral home staff with threats of violence. The Chiraras were forced to abandon the burial altogether.
“We had no choice but to leave. It was no longer safe for us to attend. But this has left our entire family unsettled. Our nephew’s spirit is not at peace. We want his body returned to our ancestral land.”
The maternal family, led by Edmore Mwavhera—Kudakwashe’s grandfather—remains defiant.
“These people used my daughter and dumped her. We raised Kudakwashe. We took care of him when they abandoned him. We buried him the way we saw fit,” Mwavhera told the court.
He claimed the Chiraras were only now seeking control of the burial because of pride, not love.
“Now that he is gone, they want to show off as if they cared. We did the right thing.”
Village Head Mwavhera also confirmed the tension surrounding the funeral, revealing that he had tried to involve both families but that the Chiraras did not return to participate. He said the police advised that the burial proceed because of time constraints and the absence of a court order to stop it.
Chief Marange, ruling on the matter, said the court sympathised with Chirara’s pain but emphasized the need for lawful procedures.
“Exhumation is a serious matter. You cannot simply demand it. The law must be followed. If you have a legitimate claim, you must apply through the courts and prove your case,” said the Chief.
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A Legal Tangle of Custom and Authority
The case shines a spotlight on a common but complex issue in Zimbabwe: the clash between customary law and modern legal processes when it comes to burial rights. In many communities, the right to bury a deceased person—especially a man—is traditionally reserved for the paternal family. However, evolving family structures, urban migration, and disputes over lobola have made such matters deeply contested.
As the Chirara family prepares to escalate the matter legally, experts point to several previous cases where the High Court intervened to order exhumation due to the exclusion of blood relatives from burial decisions.
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What Happens Next?
If Thomas Chirara and his family want the body of Kudakwashe exhumed, they will have to file an application in the civil division of the High Court, supported by:
• Affidavits proving their familial link,
• Evidence of exclusion or violence,
• Customary and cultural justification for the reburial.
They may also need to prove that the current burial site was not chosen by the deceased himself and that exhumation would not cause undue harm or public health risk.
Spike in Road Accidents Triggers Mandatory Driver Retesting in Zimbabwe
Harare – May 10, 2025
By A Correspondent | Zimbabwe is experiencing a troubling surge in road traffic accidents, with authorities pointing to human error and bad driving as the leading causes. In response, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) has announced a sweeping policy shift: all licensed drivers will soon be required to undergo retesting, as part of an aggressive nationwide strategy to curb reckless driving and save lives.
According to official data from the Zimbabwe Republic Police, more than 52,000 road traffic crashes were recorded in 2024 alone, marking a 17% increase compared to the previous year. Of these, over 2,000 were fatal, with human error accounting for more than 90% of the incidents.
Speaking at a high-level stakeholders meeting between the police, transport operators, and urban development officials, VID official Onesimo Bumhira revealed that the government intends to introduce expiry dates on driver’s licences, forcing motorists to undergo health and competency checks before renewal.
“Driver’s physical and medical conditions change with time—some start wearing spectacles, others face cognitive or mobility challenges. These must be factored into continued eligibility to drive,” said Bumhira.
The announcement comes amid the rollout of Zimbabwe’s new scannable plastic driver’s licence, which replaces the open-ended metal discs. These modern cards are valid for five years, aligning with regional and international standards under SADC, COMESA, and the East African Community.
The meeting also shed light on infrastructural and enforcement gaps. Harare city officials were grilled for failing to provide adequate transport ranks amid an explosion in vehicle numbers, while passenger association representatives slammed the police for turning a blind eye to illegal operators such as mushikashika (pirate taxis).
Deputy police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Blessmore Chishaka acknowledged the rise in deadly crashes, particularly on long-distance routes and urban corridors, but credited recent progress to monitoring systems donated by the Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO).
“These systems allow real-time tracking of driver speed and behavior. Operators whose drivers are caught speeding three times will face blacklisting,” he warned. “We’ve noticed that most of these accidents are avoidable—if only drivers obeyed traffic laws.”
The ZPTO system has already flagged multiple repeat offenders, with over 300 drivers recorded exceeding speed limits more than three times this year, triggering investigations.
Transport safety advocates say the move to retest drivers is long overdue. “Too many drivers are operating on licences obtained decades ago, with no reevaluation of their capacity,” said one senior official. “Driving is a privilege, not a lifetime guarantee.”
As the government digitizes its vehicle and driver database, expectations are high that errant drivers will face tighter scrutiny—and that Zimbabwe might finally see a decline in one of its most preventable public health crises.
By Business Reporter-Zimbabwe is losing up to 40% of its gold revenue to smuggling syndicates, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando has revealed—confirming long-standing allegations of systemic looting raised in high-profile international investigations.
Speaking at the 2025 First Quarter Gold Mobilisation Workshop held in Harare on Wednesday, Chitando said illicit trade in gold continues to pose a serious threat to Zimbabwe’s economic recovery, despite improved deliveries to the state’s gold-buying agencies.
“It is important to acknowledge, however, the significant challenges that continue to face our gold mining sector,” Chitando said. “Foremost among these are illicit activities and the ongoing issue of gold smuggling. Due to its inherent nature as a high-value and low-volume commodity, gold is particularly susceptible to leakages to various international markets.”
This public acknowledgement by a senior government official lends credence to a 2023 investigative documentary series by Al Jazeera, titled Gold Mafia, in which ZimEye largely contributed to, which exposed elaborate gold smuggling and money laundering networks operating with impunity in Zimbabwe. The investigation, based on undercover footage and leaked documents, linked several gold smugglers to individuals within President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inner circle, including diplomats, senior clergy, and politically connected businessmen.
The Gold Mafia exposé revealed that Zimbabwean gold was being moved illicitly to international markets—particularly the United Arab Emirates and South Africa—through sophisticated networks involving fake invoices, diplomatic cover, and shell companies. Among the central figures implicated were self-styled prophet Uebert Angel, Zimbabwean presidential envoy and ambassador-at-large, and business mogul Simon Rudland, whose role in these schemes stirred intense local and global criticism.
The extent of Zimbabwe’s gold losses is staggering. A 2020 report by the International Crisis Group estimated that the country loses about US$1.5 billion annually to gold smuggling—equivalent to 22.4 tonnes a year or approximately 1.87 tonnes every month. If current gold prices—reported by BullionVault Ltd to be around US$3,338.19 per ounce—are applied, this means Zimbabwe could have forfeited around US$660 million in just the first quarter of 2025 alone due to smuggling.
Despite these losses, Zimbabwe recorded gold export earnings of US$755.24 million in the first quarter of 2025, a significant increase from US$385.13 million during the same period in 2024, according to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat). Yet experts suggest these figures still fall far short of what the country could earn if all gold was sold through formal channels.
Chitando noted that total gold deliveries for the first quarter reached 8.5 tonnes, surpassing the quarterly target of 7 tonnes. He attributed much of this progress to the small-scale mining sector, which consistently contributes around 60% to Zimbabwe’s gold output.
“In January, February and March 2025, small-scale miners delivered 2.27 tonnes, 1.64 tonnes and 1.86 tonnes respectively, averaging 68% of the total monthly production,” Chitando said. “This consistent performance underscores the effectiveness of our efforts to formalise and empower this pivotal industry.”
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting artisanal miners through training, formalisation, and improved access to fair markets. However, observers say real progress will depend on political will to dismantle entrenched smuggling cartels and ensure accountability for those implicated in the looting.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has previously estimated that Zimbabwe loses at least US$100 million monthly to gold smuggling—an issue that has persisted despite various attempts to increase transparency and regulatory oversight.
Analysts and civil society organisations continue to call for an independent inquiry into the Gold Mafia revelations and prosecution of those involved. Without this, critics argue, Zimbabwe’s gold sector risks becoming a permanent tool for elite enrichment and international money laundering.
Soccer fans and analysts alike are voicing growing frustration over the sluggish pace of renovations at Harare’s National Sports Stadium, despite promises of a full revamp of the facility’s turf and infrastructure.
The stadium, once hailed as Zimbabwe’s sporting pride, has long suffered from poor maintenance, inadequate drainage, and outdated amenities. A contractor assigned to overhaul the playing surface has attempted to reassure the public, outlining steps aimed at improving the pitch’s drainage system and general condition.
“We are currently focused on reconstructing the substructure, which includes proper drainage channels to ensure water flows away quickly during rains. Once the base is stable, new turf will be installed to meet international standards,” said the contractor during a site update.
However, football analysts and fans remain skeptical, citing a lack of visible progress and clear timelines.
“It’s taking too long. We’ve heard similar promises before, yet nothing substantial has changed,” said one local football expert. “The pace is disappointing, and it’s unfair to clubs and fans who rely on the stadium for major fixtures.”
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has previously faced sanctions and international scrutiny over the condition of the stadium, which has led to national teams being forced to host matches abroad. With the refurbishment now in the spotlight, there is renewed pressure on authorities to deliver tangible improvements.
For now, the once-mighty stadium continues to bear the weight of expectations—and skepticism.
Plymouth Argyle have confirmed that Zimbabwe international Brendan Galloway will remain with the club for the upcoming 2025/26 season, entering the final year of his current contract, which runs until June 2026.
Despite Argyle’s relegation from the English Championship to League One, the 28-year-old defender is staying put as the club looks to rebuild and mount a strong promotion campaign.
Galloway, known for his versatility at both centre-back and left-back, has been a reliable presence in the squad when fully fit.
However, his 2024/25 season was marred by injuries, restricting him to just 15 appearances in all competitions.
A serious leg injury in January 2025 prematurely ended his season, following a spell on the sidelines earlier in the campaign due to an ankle problem that caused him to miss nine matches.
Despite the fitness challenges, Argyle see Galloway as a crucial part of their defensive setup heading into the new season.
“Brendan brings experience, leadership, and quality at the back. We’re confident he’ll play a key role as we aim to bounce back,” said a club spokesperson.
Galloway joined Argyle in 2021 and has made over 71 league appearances for the club, following earlier stints with Everton and West Bromwich Albion.
As he continues his recovery, Galloway will be hoping to return stronger and help guide the Pilgrims back to the Championship.
Harare – ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has called for cooperation from South African authorities in curbing what he described as “subversive activities” by Zimbabwean nationals operating from across the Limpopo.
Speaking at a ZANU PF media briefing in Harare on Thursday, Mutsvangwa expressed concern over individuals he referred to as Nyokayemabhunu and Geza, alleging that they are attempting to destabilize Zimbabwe while residing in South Africa.
“Zimbabwean citizens plotting subversive activities while in South Africa will not succeed,” Mutsvangwa declared. “South Africa is a sister republic, and such actions will be met with the full force of the law.”
He emphasized that the ruling party, ZANU PF, remains focused on stabilizing the country’s economy and restoring confidence in key sectors such as agriculture and retail.
“We are creating an economy which will reduce retention on our exports,” he said. “ZANU PF wants to maintain price stability for retailers and farmers. Farmers are happy—the tobacco selling price is worth it for those in Hurungwe and other parts. This gives Zimbabwe a comparative advantage on global markets.”
Turning to internal party matters, Mutsvangwa confirmed that President Mnangagwa had overseen disciplinary proceedings during the latest Politburo meeting, though no members were expelled.
“The President yesterday presided over a number of disciplinary matters. He wants the party to be united—he does not want rumour mongering,” he said. “In Masvingo, there were grievances from some party members and they were given a reprimand. No one was expelled from the party.”
Mutsvangwa’s remarks come amid growing political tension and increased scrutiny of exiled Zimbabweans who have been critical of the government via online platforms. His call to South Africa for assistance suggests a hardening stance toward diaspora-based dissent.
WATCH | Chris Mutsvangwa slams Nyokayemabhunu and Blessed Geza
An InterAfrica bus plying the Chiredzi–Bulawayo route via Zvishavane was involved in a fatal collision with a Toyota Probox early this morning near the Tugwi River along the Ngundu–Tanganda highway.
According to eyewitnesses, the bus failed to dim its headlights, temporarily blinding the Probox driver and leading to the crash. Both the driver of the Probox and his passenger died at the scene.
Johannesburg – Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has lashed out at British authorities, accusing them of deliberately denying him a visa to attend a major event in the United Kingdom, just hours before his scheduled departure.
Malema was due to speak at the Cambridge Africa Together Conference on 10 May 2025, but his travel plans were abruptly derailed when the British High Commission in South Africa failed to issue his visa on time—a move he described as politically motivated.
“The British authorities have denied me a visa to London for the Cambridge Conference this weekend, providing no substantial justification,” Malema said in a strongly worded statement on Wednesday. “It is clear to me that this is an attempt to silence a dissenting political perspective.”
Visibly frustrated, Malema revealed that he had been waiting at OR Tambo International Airport, expecting resolution by mid-afternoon. “We are currently at the OR airport, as we were promised that everything would be sorted by 15:30. Instead, we received a regret letter just four hours before our departure. This is unacceptable and spineless,” he added.
The British High Commission has since issued an apology, acknowledging its failure to process the visa in time. However, the apology has done little to ease tensions, with the EFF calling it “a transparent attempt to avoid accountability.”
The visa denial has also sparked political reactions back home. While Malema’s supporters have rallied behind him, AfriForum—a civil rights group that has long clashed with the EFF leader—welcomed the outcome, claiming it validates their international lobbying against Malema.
Political analysts say the incident could strain diplomatic relations and fuel ongoing debates around freedom of speech, international gatekeeping, and the political treatment of African leaders on the global stage.
The bail hearing of Zimbabwean national Wellington Masiwa, widely known as “Nyokayemabhunu,” has been postponed once again after a brief appearance at the Randburg Magistrates Court today.
Masiwa, who is facing fraud charges and is reportedly under investigation in connection with an Interpol red notice, will remain in custody until Wednesday next week, when both matters are expected to be consolidated before the court.
Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse, Masiwa’s legal representative explained the delay:
“The matter has been postponed for bail application. It is for the fraud matter and Interpol matter to be brought together on Wednesday next week. We’re going to try and get bail for Mr. Masiwa.”
She added that key documentation from Masiwa’s family is still outstanding:
“The original documents—we’re still waiting for them to come from the family. It’s just that we are still to get that, yes.”
Masiwa, known by his alias “Nyokayemabhunu,” is an activist known on social media as such.
More updates are expected as the matter unfolds next week.
Zimbabwe’s economic outlook continues to darken as inflationary pressures mount, prompting strong warnings from the country’s largest business lobby. The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has raised red flags over surging consumer prices and questioned the effectiveness of recent monetary reforms.
According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), annual inflation for April 2025 stood at 85.7%, the first such figure released since the rollout of the ZiG currency in April 2024. However, economists and independent analysts argue the real inflation rate could be far higher.
“We are deeply concerned about the trajectory inflation is taking,” CZI stated in its latest Inflation and Currency Developments Update. “Although the official figure is 85.7%, businesses on the ground are grappling with much steeper cost increases. It’s affecting borrowing, pricing, and long-term planning.”
The ZiG—introduced as a replacement for the collapsing Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL)—was initially hailed as a stabilizing force. But just a year after its launch, its credibility is under strain. “The ZiG was meant to restore confidence,” the CZI noted. “Instead, what we’re seeing are lingering effects of cumulative shocks from 2024, which have fueled persistent month-on-month inflation.”
Rising inflation has also pushed up interest rates, compounding the challenges facing both industry and households. “The cost of borrowing is now unsustainable for many companies,” a CZI spokesperson said. “This undermines production and ultimately impacts jobs and prices.”
Doubts over official inflation data are also growing. Bretton Woods institutions have reportedly requested access to ZimStat’s raw figures, expressing concern over the transparency and accuracy of the methods used.
As consumer purchasing power continues to erode, the private sector is urging authorities to urgently address economic fundamentals. “Stabilization must go beyond currency changes,” CZI emphasized. “It requires consistent policy, transparency, and confidence-building measures.”
With no clear relief in sight, both businesses and citizens are bracing for more difficult months ahead.
War veteran and former Zanu PF stalwart Blessed Geza has announced his return with a bold message that has already stirred anticipation and speculation across social media.
In a teaser posted earlier today, Geza declared: “Good morning, fellow Zimbabweans, this is truly yours, Blessed Geza, comrade bombshell. Let’s meet tonight at 20:30 when I give you another update—an explosive one—on the goings-on in the military of Zimbabwe.”
Known for his provocative broadcasts and insider claims, Geza has built a loyal following eager for his no-holds-barred commentary, though his critics question the authenticity and intent behind some of his claims.
With tensions already simmering over national security and political intrigue, Geza’s promise of an “explosive” military update has fueled widespread curiosity. Many are now waiting to see whether the broadcast will reveal credible information or ignite further controversy.
Harare – ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has called for cooperation from South African authorities in curbing what he described as “subversive activities” by Zimbabwean nationals operating from across the Limpopo.
Speaking at a ZANU PF media briefing in Harare on Thursday, Mutsvangwa expressed concern over individuals he referred to as Nyokayemabhunu and Geza, alleging that they are attempting to destabilize Zimbabwe while residing in South Africa.
“Zimbabwean citizens plotting subversive activities while in South Africa will not succeed,” Mutsvangwa declared. “South Africa is a sister republic, and such actions will be met with the full force of the law.”
He emphasized that the ruling party, ZANU PF, remains focused on stabilizing the country’s economy and restoring confidence in key sectors such as agriculture and retail.
“We are creating an economy which will reduce retention on our exports,” he said. “ZANU PF wants to maintain price stability for retailers and farmers. Farmers are happy—the tobacco selling price is worth it for those in Hurungwe and other parts. This gives Zimbabwe a comparative advantage on global markets.”
Turning to internal party matters, Mutsvangwa confirmed that President Mnangagwa had overseen disciplinary proceedings during the latest Politburo meeting, though no members were expelled.
“The President yesterday presided over a number of disciplinary matters. He wants the party to be united—he does not want rumour mongering,” he said. “In Masvingo, there were grievances from some party members and they were given a reprimand. No one was expelled from the party.”
Mutsvangwa’s remarks come amid growing political tension and increased scrutiny of exiled Zimbabweans who have been critical of the government via online platforms. His call to South Africa for assistance suggests a hardening stance toward diaspora-based dissent.
WATCH | Chris Mutsvangwa slams Nyokayemabhunu and Blessed Geza
By A Correspondent–Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has rejected recommendations to purge party members based on unsubstantiated allegations.
This decision is widely interpreted as a political win for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, whose allies have been under scrutiny amid escalating factional tensions within the party. The internal discord primarily revolves around Mnangagwa’s alleged ambitions to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated term, a move opposed by Chiwenga and his supporters.
Background: The Mnangagwa-Chiwenga Power Struggle
The roots of the current factionalism trace back to the 2017 military-assisted transition that ousted long-time leader Robert Mugabe. At that time, Mnangagwa, with the backing of military figures including Chiwenga, ascended to the presidency. However, their alliance has since frayed, with Chiwenga reportedly seeking an unchallenged endorsement as party leader and presidential candidate for the 2028 elections. Mnangagwa, on the other hand, is said to favor a competitive election to determine the party’s leadership.
Recent Developments: Rejections of Purge Recommendations
Speaking at a press briefing in Harare, Mutsvangwa emphasized President Mnangagwa’s commitment to party unity and inclusivity. He stated that the President had turned down several recommendations for disciplinary expulsions, which he dismissed as being driven by false allegations and internal political maneuvering.
Mutsvangwa further noted that in cases where members were accused of misconduct, such as the feud between members in Masvingo, the President opted for reprimands rather than expulsions, underscoring his stance against divisive actions within the party.
Implications for Chiwenga and His Allies
The President’s refusal to endorse the purging of party members is seen as a setback for those within ZANU-PF seeking to marginalize Chiwenga’s faction. Reports indicate that Chiwenga has become a prime target of Mnangagwa’s loyalists, who accuse him of resisting the ZANU-PF 2024 annual conference resolution that seeks to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency until 2030.
Despite these tensions, Mnangagwa’s recent actions suggest a reluctance to deepen internal divisions, possibly to maintain party cohesion ahead of future electoral contests.
Conclusion
The rejection of purge recommendations by President Mnangagwa, as announced by Mutsvangwa, marks a notable moment in the ongoing power dynamics within ZANU-PF. While it temporarily alleviates pressure on Vice President Chiwenga and his allies, the underlying factional disputes remain unresolved, signaling continued political maneuvering as the party approaches its next elective congress.
Zimbabwean consumers should prepare for more economic strain, as the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has expressed alarm over the rising cost of living, driven by what it describes as “very high” inflation levels.
According to figures from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), annual inflation for April 2025 stood at 85.7%—a figure that has drawn skepticism from analysts, who believe the true inflation rate may have already breached the triple-digit mark.
The latest data marks the first official inflation update since the introduction of the ZiG currency in April 2024, which replaced the rapidly weakening Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL). The ZiG’s first anniversary comes amid growing concern that it has failed to stabilize prices or restore consumer confidence.
In its April 2025 Inflation and Currency Developments Update, the CZI noted, “The ZiG currency was officially launched on the 8th of April 2024… However, in April 2025, the ZiG had an annual inflation of 85.7%, which is very high. The high ZiG inflation largely reflects cumulative shocks that drove month-on-month inflation in 2024.”
The rising inflation is also pushing up the cost of borrowing, threatening business growth and household spending capacity. Meanwhile, international financial institutions have reportedly requested access to ZimStat’s raw inflation data, as doubts grow over the accuracy and methodology used in calculating the official figures.
With price increases, declining purchasing power, and reduced economic confidence, industrialists warn that the road ahead may be more difficult for both businesses and consumers.
Nhimbe Trust has announced the passing of Ian White, a key figure in Zimbabwe’s arts sector who joined the organisation in 2017 and made a courageous move to Bulawayo to help expand the country’s creative spaces. Known for his dedication to cultural development, White played a vital role in efforts to extend the celebrated Book Café concept to Bulawayo’s Bluez Café in the City of Kings.
Although the ambitious plans were eventually shelved, Nhimbe Trust hailed White’s contributions as “invaluable,” stating that he would be fondly remembered by the many Bulawayo artists he mentored and collaborated with. In a heartfelt tribute posted to their official Facebook page, the organisation described his journey as one rooted in vision and commitment to the arts.
The post also featured a historic 2017 photograph showing the late Cont Mhlanga, legendary Zimbabwean playwright and arts advocate, warmly welcoming White to Bulawayo—a symbolic moment that underscored the solidarity among cultural pioneers.
“Ian’s experience and passion left a mark on our creative community. Rest in peace, Ian,” the statement concluded.
Nhimbe Trust, a Bulawayo-based non-profit dedicated to fostering a vibrant and resilient Pan-African cultural economy, continues to support artists and cultural workers through policy advocacy, training, and infrastructure support. Their office is located at 97A Lobengula Street, 8th Avenue Extension, Bulawayo.
Further tributes from artists and stakeholders in the cultural sector are expected in the coming days.
By Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi | The fenced gate of Harare Central Remand Prison swung open on Wednesday night, releasing Alpha Media journalist Blessed Mhlanga after 73 days of pre-trial detention. But the man who emerged was not the same one who entered. Watching Mhlanga’s press interview following his release, one could not help but be struck by the rage of anger radiating from him. It was not a theatrical rage, but a deep-seated fury, etched onto his face and resonating in his voice, the raw emotion of a man who felt profoundly wronged.
Mhlanga’s crime? Airing a press conference by a war veteran, Blessed Geza, who dared to challenge President Emmerson Mnangagwa. For this, he was charged for transmitting data inciting violence, a charge that many see as a thinly veiled attempt to silence dissenting voices. The absurdity of the accusation, coupled with the agonisingly slow wheels of justice, fuelled a simmering resentment that finally boiled over in his post-release interview.
His words, though measured, dripped with disdain for a system that could unjustly rob a man of his freedom for over two months. He spoke of the hellish conditions within the prison walls, the lack of resources and the personal toll the experience had taken on his health. But beyond the physical hardships, it was the injustice of it all that seemed to haunt him the most.
Mhlanga’s case is a painful reminder of the often-cruel reality of the Zimbabwean justice system, a system where political affiliations can outweigh the principles of fairness and due process. It evokes memories of a past where those in power wielded the law as a weapon against their rivals, a past that many hoped had been left behind.
Indeed, Mhlanga’s ordeal brings to mind the story of President Mnangagwa himself, who was once forced to flee the country after Robert Mugabe threatened to imprison him. The irony is stark, a leader who once experienced the sting of political persecution now presides over a system where similar injustices continue to occur.
The question that lingers is, what has changed? Is the future of those in power truly secure when the very institutions meant to uphold justice are perceived as instruments of oppression? In this age of instant information and widespread connectivity, the actions of those in authority are subject to unprecedented scrutiny. The masses are no longer passive observers, they are active participants in shaping the narrative.
Mhlanga’s anger is not just his own, it is a reflection of the frustration and disillusionment felt by many Zimbabweans who yearn for a truly just and equitable society. His case is a warning that the abuse of power, even in the digital age, will not go unnoticed. The echoes of his anger will continue to reverberate, demanding accountability and a fundamental shift in the way justice is administered in Zimbabwe. The world is watching, and the future of those in power may well depend on their willingness to listen.
By Crime and Courts Reporter – A Mukumba bus was reportedly involved in a collision with a mushika-shika vehicle near the Renco turn-off, approximately 75 kilometres southeast of Masvingo, close to Renco Mine.
Preliminary reports indicate that no fatalities have been recorded in the crash. However, ZimEye is in the process of verifying the details with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
This latest incident comes just days after a string of deadly road accidents shocked the nation.
Triple Tragedy on Zimbabwe’s Roads
On Wednesday, three people were killed in a horrific head-on collision involving a BMW sedan and a haulage truck between Mhandamabwe and Mashava. According to police and eyewitnesses, the BMW was completely destroyed in the crash, and all its occupants died on the spot. Images from the scene showed twisted wreckage and shattered glass scattered across the highway as emergency personnel worked to clear the debris.
Earlier that same morning, a separate accident in Gweru claimed six lives when a Harare-bound Hungwe Coaches bus overturned near the Fairmile Hotel roundabout.
Brake Failure Blamed in Gweru Disaster
The Gweru crash has sent shockwaves across the Midlands province. Survivors and witnesses reported that the tragedy was caused by brake failure. The bus, traveling from Bulawayo, reportedly failed to navigate the roundabout, veered off course, and overturned with dozens of passengers onboard.
“I was sitting near the front, close to the driver, when it happened,” said one survivor. “As we approached the roundabout, the driver shouted that the brakes were failing. The bus sped up and then flipped. I was lucky to escape. Within minutes, ambulances arrived.”
Swift Emergency Response
Gweru City Council CEO, Mr. Felix Muguti, confirmed that emergency services responded quickly after receiving a distress call at around 7 a.m.
“We immediately activated our network of ambulance services and contacted the military for assistance. We have so far retrieved six bodies, including a child,” Muguti said.
Several injured passengers were taken to Gweru General Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
National Road Safety in the Spotlight
The wave of recent accidents has reignited national concern over road safety, particularly involving long-distance buses and heavy-duty vehicles. Authorities are expected to issue statements and may launch formal investigations into the causes of both crashes.
As families mourn and survivors recover, the incidents highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, regular vehicle inspections, and improved training for public transport drivers across Zimbabwe.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A serious road traffic accident occurred early this morning at the Renco Mine turn-off in Masvingo involving an Inter Africa bus and a white Mushikashika (illegal private taxi).
The scene reveals devastating wreckage: the white Mushikashika vehicle was extensively crushed and thrown off the road into the bush, indicating a high-impact collision. Debris was scattered across the tarmac, suggesting the vehicle may have rolled or been struck with force. Meanwhile, the Inter Africa bus veered off the road and crashed into thick roadside vegetation, with visible damage to its front cabin.
The accident scene
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that emergency services had not yet arrived at the time the photos were taken, and passengers could be seen standing near the bus in shock. It remains unclear how many people were injured or if there were any fatalities, but the condition of the Mushikashika suggests serious consequences for its occupants.
This route is known for heavy traffic and frequent accidents involving long-distance buses and informal taxis. Motorists are urged to avoid the area while authorities respond.
Check on your loved ones if they were travelling along the Masvingo–Renco route this morning. This is a developing story.
Victoria Falls, May 9, 2025 — In a bid to strengthen Zimbabwe’s cyber resilience and boost digital safety, the government is considering reducing the cost of training for Data Protection Officers (DPOs), a move aimed at broadening access to this critical qualification.
Tatenda Mavetera
Speaking at the official opening of the inaugural Strategy Execution Advisory Talk (SEAT) Africa Summit in Victoria Falls, the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, revealed that the government is actively working through the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to make DPO training more affordable.
“I mentioned the issue of our DPOs and this is a process we are handling now through POTRAZ. We are negotiating to bring the cost down, making it more accessible,” said Mavetera. “Since this is a statutory requirement, we must review the pricing to ensure it’s affordable for everyone.”
Currently, the mandatory DPO certification course carries a fee of US$1,250 — a figure widely viewed as prohibitive, particularly for small to medium enterprises and public institutions.
Zimbabwe, ranked 134th globally in terms of exposure to cyber threats, has been making efforts to align its cybersecurity infrastructure with international standards. Lowering the cost barrier for DPO training is expected to boost compliance with data protection laws and increase the number of certified officers safeguarding sensitive information across sectors.
The SEAT Africa Summit brings together policy makers, technologists, and business leaders from across the continent to strategize on digital transformation and cybersecurity execution.
Government sources indicate that a formal announcement regarding revised DPO training fees could be made in the coming weeks.
By Munacho Gwamanda-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reportedly blocked attempts by hardliners within Zanu PF to expel a number of senior party members linked to his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, in a move that lays bare the escalating factional tensions within the ruling party.
Speaking at a press briefing in Harare on Thursday, Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa confirmed that Mnangagwa had turned down several recommendations for disciplinary expulsions, which he dismissed as being driven by false allegations and internal political manoeuvring.
“The President wants the party to be united and does not tolerate rumour-mongering, divisive behaviour or gratuitous expulsions,” Mutsvangwa told journalists. “He presided over a number of disciplinary issues brought before the Politburo and, in all instances, rejected the notion of expelling members based on flimsy allegations.”
This announcement comes amid increasing reports of infighting between rival camps within Zanu PF—one aligned with President Mnangagwa and another increasingly coalescing around Vice President Chiwenga. Tensions have been building since the disputed 2023 elections, with a growing number of party insiders resisting Mnangagwa’s so-called “2030 agenda”—a veiled push to extend his grip on power beyond constitutional term limits.
Several of those targeted for disciplinary action are believed to be loyal to Chiwenga, a former military commander who played a pivotal role in the 2017 coup that ousted long-time ruler Robert Mugabe and elevated Mnangagwa to the presidency. The sidelining of Chiwenga’s allies is widely seen as part of a broader strategy to neutralise internal opposition ahead of Zanu PF’s next elective congress.
In a pointed message, Mutsvangwa said: “The party does not tolerate violence or physical confrontation. In a case from Masvingo, both feuding members were found guilty and received reprimands, but there was no expulsion. The President insisted on unity.”
He also confirmed that Shadreck Mashayamombe, previously expelled, had been re-admitted into the party by the Harare provincial leadership, with Mnangagwa’s approval.
Political observers note that Mutsvangwa’s own political standing within Zanu PF has been significantly weakened in recent months. Once a powerful voice in the war veterans’ lobby and a prominent backer of Mnangagwa, Mutsvangwa has come under fire from within the party for his outspoken criticisms of Chiwenga and his growing irrelevance in key decision-making circles. He recently suffered a humiliating political defeat when he failed to secure re-election as the party’s provincial chair for Mashonaland West, a sign of his declining influence.
The Politburo also discussed the controversial co-option of Cde Dorothy Mabika as Manicaland provincial chairperson of the women’s league. While a report was presented by party legal affairs secretary Patrick Chinamasa, Mnangagwa reportedly requested more time to review a security department assessment before making a final decision. In the interim, acting chairperson Mercy Sacco will continue in her role.
Mnangagwa, Mutsvangwa said, cautioned Politburo members against manipulating internal electoral processes and warned that anyone attempting to “game the system” would face consequences.
Background: A Party at War with Itself
The internal battles within Zanu PF reflect long-standing rivalries that have intensified since the 2017 coup. While Mnangagwa has consolidated power in public, behind the scenes the party remains bitterly divided. The Chiwenga faction—comprising mostly military-aligned veterans and security officials—has grown increasingly uneasy with Mnangagwa’s perceived efforts to sideline the military from politics and impose a dynastic succession plan.
Mutsvangwa, who has in recent years been a vocal critic of the so-called “militarisation” of politics, is viewed by the Chiwenga camp as a political antagonist. His public attacks on “factionalism” have often been interpreted as thinly veiled barbs at Chiwenga’s influence within the party.
This latest episode appears to be a calculated effort by Mnangagwa to project unity ahead of looming internal battles, but it also suggests the President may be walking a political tightrope—balancing his desire to purge rivals with the need to maintain cohesion in a deeply divided party.
As Zanu PF prepares for its next congress, the question remains: can Mnangagwa keep the party together, or are the fractures now too deep to heal?
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa has made a dramatic U-turn, shelving plans to expel or suspend members aligned to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, in what observers see as a strategic retreat from escalating internal party conflict.
Addressing the media after a high-stakes ZANU-PF Politburo meeting on Wednesday, party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa revealed that Mnangagwa firmly rejected attempts to remove members accused of factional allegiance, warning against rumour-driven purges and politically motivated retribution.
“In all instances where there were attempts at expulsion and suspension of membership… the President rejected the notion,” said Mutsvangwa. “He wants the party to be united and does not want rumour-mongering and other nefarious activities to divide the membership.”
The announcement follows weeks of growing tension between rival factions loyal to Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, amid whispers of succession battles and loyalty tests within the ruling party’s ranks. Several members reportedly under scrutiny for their perceived closeness to Chiwenga have now been spared disciplinary action, including Shadreck Mashayamombe, who has been formally readmitted into the party.
In Masvingo, a violent altercation between two senior members prompted a recommendation for expulsion, but Mnangagwa instead issued a reprimand to both individuals, stating that while violence is unacceptable, unity must be preserved.
Analysts say the move signals a temporary cooling of hostilities within ZANU-PF’s warring factions, as the President seeks to project stability amid mounting political and economic pressures.
“Gratuitous expulsions would divide the people and weaken the party,” Mutsvangwa emphasized, quoting Mnangagwa’s instructions to the Politburo.
The unexpected climbdown raises questions about the President’s grip on internal party dynamics and whether this latest pivot is a sign of tactical recalibration or pressure from within the party’s powerful military-aligned establishment.
Meanwhile, the Politburo postponed final decisions on leadership disputes in Manicaland, including the contentious co-option of Dorothy Mabika, pending a security report. Mnangagwa reportedly warned against manipulating the party’s internal electoral processes for factional advantage.
As tensions simmer beneath the surface, all eyes are now on whether this call for unity marks a genuine reconciliation effort or a temporary truce in ZANU-PF’s ongoing power struggle.
By Dorrothy Moyo | For more than a millennium, Western art has depicted Christ as a fair-skinned, blue-eyed figure—an image wholly at odds with the historical Jesus, a first-century Galilean Jew. Recent forensic reconstructions and scholarship invite us to reconsider the “white Jesus” and reflect on how colonialism and white supremacy shaped Christian iconography.
A Semitic Man, Not a Scandinavian
Modern scholars agree that Jesus was born in the Levant around 4 BCE and lived as a Galilean Jew. Based on archaeological evidence and contemporary descriptions, his appearance would have reflected the local population.
“The reconstruction provides the closest image of what this remarkable man may have looked like,” said the BBC of a 2001 forensic model based on first-century Jewish skulls, which yielded a broad-faced, dark-skinned man with short, curly hair—far removed from Renaissance depictions of Christ.
Similarly, CBS News reported that researchers described their reconstruction as “an accurate reflection of the people at that time,” noting that traditional Western art grew out of European portraits, not historical data.
Scriptural Hints of Darker Hues
Even early Christian texts suggest Jesus’s complexion differed from European ideals. Revelation 1:14–15, for instance, describes his “feet…like burnished bronze” and hair “white as wool,” imagery more consistent with Middle Eastern features than with Nordic traits.
The Colonial Roots of “White Jesus”
Art historian Nicholas Broadview argues that the familiar fair-haired Jesus serves colonial narratives:
“Sallman’s Jesus is a depiction grounded not in historical accuracy or research, but in the foundation of colonialism and white supremacy,” reflecting a dogma that “white is right” and reinforcing Western dominance in religion and politics.
Indeed, art historian Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas has called the idealization of a white Christ “America’s original sin,” linking it to theologies that once justified slavery and segregation.
Why It Matters Today
The enduring image of a white Christ isn’t merely an art-historical curiosity. It shapes whose faces we deem sacred and whose leadership we accept. As recent social media debates around a potential Black Pope have shown, many still assume Christianity’s pinnacle must look European. That assumption echoes a broader pattern: in over two millennia, the Catholic Church has never elected a Black pontiff—even early Popes of North African origin are often portrayed in Eurocentric art.
Reclaiming Jesus’s true Semitic visage offers more than historical accuracy—it challenges racial hierarchies within faith communities. As Religion Dispatches urges, Christians “begin the important work of removing and replacing depictions of Jesus as a white man with more historically accurate representations—or with no representations at all.”
Jesus of Nazareth was almost certainly a brown-skinned, Middle Eastern Jew. The “white Jesus” emerges from centuries of colonial theology and art, not from Scripture or history. Embracing a more authentic image helps dismantle lingering white supremacist narratives and fosters a richer, more inclusive faith.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | The Zimbabwean community in the United Kingdom and beyond is in mourning following the passing of Mr Ushe, affectionately known as “Mhofu,” a long-serving and iconic caretaker at Zimbabwe House in London. News of his death has sent waves of grief across social media, with tributes pouring in from diplomats, diaspora members, and former colleagues.
Announcement of the great caretaker of the London embassy
Mr Ushe, widely regarded as a pillar of the Zimbabwean diplomatic mission in the UK, served the embassy with unwavering dedication for over 45 years. Known for his warmth, humility, and ever-present smile, Mhofu was more than a staff member—he was a symbol of continuity and comfort to countless Zimbabweans who passed through the embassy’s doors.
“He was a mainstay at Zimbabwe House,” wrote ZANU PF Chairperson, Xavier Hwaro Kuwana-Zavare in a heartfelt Facebook tribute. “45 years of great service to Zimbabwe. What a legend.”
Messages of condolence describe Mhofu as a “hero,” a “true gentleman,” and a “son of the soil” who left an indelible mark on all who encountered him. Embassy visitors fondly recalled his hospitality, dedication, and the sense of home he brought to the mission, often referring to him as “sekuru”—a respectful Shona term for elder.
One commenter wrote: “RIP CDE, our London Embassy will never be the same without you,” while another added, “He was a real gentleman, always professional.”
From jokes and shared stories to assistance with embassy visits, Mr Ushe’s contributions went beyond duty. “Vakaitichengeta,” noted one mourner in Shona—“He looked after us.”
At a time when the Zimbabwean diaspora often feels disconnected from home, figures like Mr Ushe provided a steady anchor. His death marks not only the end of an era at Zimbabwe House but also the loss of a living archive of Zimbabwe’s diplomatic history in the UK.
Details regarding funeral arrangements and tributes are expected to follow in the coming days.
Rest in Peace, Mhofu YeMukona. You will be remembered as a quiet giant who served his people with honour.
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has provided further insight into the recent disruption at Hwange Power Station, attributing the incident to a chemical issue that damaged critical infrastructure and forced multiple units offline.
ZESA Holdings, the parent company of ZETDC, revealed on Sunday that the fault had led to increased electricity rationing nationwide. According to ZETDC, the problem originated from a leak in the boiler tube system, which was linked to the presence of acidic water.
In a detailed statement, the utility company said tests had shown abnormal water properties, with unusually low pH and high conductivity levels, suggesting contamination by acidic substances. This compromised all operational units at the facility and triggered a full shutdown.
“Investigations traced the root of the contamination to the water treatment plant. Immediate remedial steps were implemented, including disconnecting the treatment system and flushing the entire network,” the statement noted. “Water quality has since returned to acceptable standards, allowing plant operations to resume in stages.”
The acidic water reportedly caused significant damage to the boiler tubes, with serious leaks identified in Units 1 and 2. Units 3, 4, and 6, which were active during the event, are currently undergoing evaluations.
ZETDC said repair work is actively underway, with progress being made to bring all five impacted units back online. The utility outlined the following timeline:
“Repairs on Units 1 and 2 are ongoing, with Unit 1 expected to be restored between late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning, 7 May 2025,” the statement said.
“Meanwhile, pressure tests and assessments continue on Units 3, 4, and 6, to be followed by necessary repair work. We anticipate full restoration of all five units by Friday, 9 May 2025.”
Announcement of the great caretaker of the London embassy
