President Mnangagwa has conferred liberation hero status on prominent Masvingo bus operator Tanda Tavaruva in recognition of his contribution to the country before and after independence.
This was contained in a letter dated May 12, that was written by Zanu PF secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu to the Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Misheck Sibanda, and copied to the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution and the party’s provincial chair Ezra Chadzamira.
“His Excellency the President and First Secretary of Zanu PF Cde E.D Mnangagwa has conferred a Liberation hero status to the late Cde Tanda Tavaruva on May 11, 2020 and he will be buried at Mangwandi Cemetery in Masvingo Province.
The family can be contacted through our Masvingo provincial office,” wrote Mpofu.-State media
Farai Dziva|Hard-hitting MDC Alliance vice president Tendai Biti has said Emmerson Mnangagwa and Thokozani Khupe want to form a “dangerous” political pact under the guise of a “Government of National Unity.”
Biti also argued that after the formation of the so called Government of National Unity, elections will be suspended for seven years.
“The regime is broke and broke in absolute terms .The coffers are empty & they are generating salaries through the RTGS ponzi scheme .To date Treasury has not disbursed #SafetyNets payment to Min of Social Services.Tobacco sales have had a poor start and donors not coming on board .
Desperate regime actively negotiating some “GNU” with Supreme Court created Frankenstein outfit and other dross with constitutional amendments being mooted some of which are to suspend all elections for 7 years,” argued Biti.
“The desperate marriage of unelectable desperados not popular inside.
No amount of lipstick or political gamesmanship can save regime and its acolytes. No amount of manipulation and abuse of state institutions will save same.Only robust political solution that respects the people’s will and commits to irrecoverable reforms can save Zimbabwe. #ZanupfMustGo”
Ekusileni Medical Centre has been placed under 24-hour police guard following the theft of donated borehole equipment on Tuesday.
Thieves cut the fence to access the hospital premises at around 4AM and stole a compressor and a water pump that were donated and recently installed on the hospital grounds. The acting chief executive officer at Ekusileni Medical Centre Dr Absalom Dube said the hospital is now under 24-hour police guard until further notice.
“To ensure safety of the equipment that we have been receiving, we have engaged the Zimbabwe Republic Police, through the Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Cde Judith Ncube. They started guarding the premises on Tuesday and will be complementing the security personnel that were already guarding the premises,” said Dr Dube, in an interview after receiving donations from the King Lobengula Royal Family Trust.
The Bulawayo City Council-run Thorngrove infectious diseases hospital, which also has received Covid-19 donations is under 24-hour municipal police guard.
In terms of ground covered at Ekusileni to admit Covid-19 patients, Dr Dube said more work was still to be done, hence the hospital was not yet ready to open its doors.
“The hospital is not yet fully ready to admit its first patient as it still needs to have some installations to ensure safety of health staff . The hospital was not originally meant for infectious diseases. So, it has to be modified to suit the purpose. We need extractors to extract infected air from rooms, in ICU and where we admit confirmed cases,” he said.
“The other outstanding issues that are there include partitioning, as in which one is the green zone and red zone and the direction of floor from donning to doffing (areas to wear and remove PPEs). Finishing off of the sluice rooms aspects, the laundry aspect, the kitchen aspect, the theatre section as someone with Covid-19 may need to be operated on,” said Dr Dube.
He said more installations still need to be made while some wards needed touch ups, such as the maternity and theatre wings.
“We need to make sure that we have theatre facility. We also need to work on the delivery room, it needs negative air pressure and installation of beds as well. In terms of having our first patients, these structural issues and key medical elements such as monitors are not yet there. The side lockers and foot stools are not yet available,” he said.
The hospital has an admission capacity of 22 but is working to increasing it to 200.
Meanwhile, the King Lobengula Royal Family Trust donated 96 blankets through the ‘I Am For Bulawayo Fighting Covid-19’ campaign to the hospital. The donation was presented to Ekusileni Medical Centre yesterday by Mr Peter ZwideKa-Langa Khumalo.
In his remarks, Mr Khumalo called for the Bulawayo community and Zimbabweans at large to unite behind the cause and complement Government efforts in combating Covid-19. State Media/Chronicle
Farai Dziva|MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has accused Emmerson Mnangagwa’ s government of choosing politics ahead of people’s lives.
Chamisa also criticized the Supreme Court ruling on the MDC leadership dispute and the recall of MPs.
“The most significant Government achievement made during this COVID-19 lockdown in Zimbabwe is the bizarre handing down of a Supreme Court judgment and the abusive summoning of parliament, not to fight the Coronavirus pandemic, but to fight political battles.
Why do we put politics ahead of nation building and saving lives?? livesbeforepolitics,”Chamisa argued.
Farai Dziva|MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has accused Emmerson Mnangagwa’ s government of choosing politics ahead of people’s lives.
Chamisa also criticized the Supreme Court ruling on the MDC leadership dispute and the recall of MPs.
“The most significant Government achievement made during this COVID-19 lockdown in Zimbabwe is the bizarre handing down of a Supreme Court judgment and the abusive summoning of parliament, not to fight the Coronavirus pandemic, but to fight political battles.
Why do we put politics ahead of nation building and saving lives?? livesbeforepolitics,”Chamisa argued.
The MDC Youth Assembly condemns in strongest terms the illegal arrest of National Vice Chairperson Cecilia Chimbiri, Deputy Organ Netsai Marova and Secretary for Policy and Research, Hon Joana Mamombe.
The trio are currently illegally held in custody at Harare Central Police Station.
As usual the police are still to place charges on the trio.
It is clear that the corrupt, illegitimate and failed Emmerson Mnangagwa regime has engaged the panic gear hence these unjustified arrests.
As an Assembly, we are not going to be intimidated in our resolve to pursue the National Democratic Agenda.
We declare and demand for the unconditional release of our leaders.
Either the rogue regime release our leaders or face retribution from angry and hungry masses.
Enough is enough!
Stephen Sarkozy Chuma MDCYouthAssemblyNationalSpokesperson
The MDC Youth Assembly condemns in strongest terms the illegal arrest of National Vice Chairperson Cecilia Chimbiri, Deputy Organ Netsai Marova and Secretary for Policy and Research, Hon Joana Mamombe.
The trio are currently illegally held in custody at Harare Central Police Station.
As usual the police are still to place charges on the trio.
It is clear that the corrupt, illegitimate and failed Emmerson Mnangagwa regime has engaged the panic gear hence these unjustified arrests.
As an Assembly, we are not going to be intimidated in our resolve to pursue the National Democratic Agenda.
We declare and demand for the unconditional release of our leaders.
Either the rogue regime release our leaders or face retribution from angry and hungry masses.
Enough is enough!
Stephen Sarkozy Chuma MDCYouthAssemblyNationalSpokesperson
Farai Dziva|Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi has claimed he is now living in fear of the “Chris Mutsvangwa and SB Moyo coalition.”
Writing on Twitter, Mutodi appealed for prayers as he was not aware of what the two were planning against him.
On Monday Mutodi accused his boss Monica Mutsvangwa of capturing state broadcaster, ZBC.
“Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers,” Mutodi posted on Twitter.
Commenting on the battle between Mutsvangwa and Mutodi, business tycoon Mutumwa Mawere said :
@energymutodi lifts a finger against @MinsterSBMoyo alleging that there is only one BOSS in Zim.
@energymutodi is a Deputy Minister yet on social media, he would appear to be accountable only to the President. Where is the order and structure in the govt? The centre has fallen apart.
Farai Dziva|Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi has claimed he is now living in fear of the “Chris Mutsvangwa and SB Moyo coalition.”
Writing on Twitter, Mutodi appealed for prayers as he was not aware of what the two were planning against him.
On Monday Mutodi accused his boss Monica Mutsvangwa of capturing state broadcaster, ZBC.
“Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers,” Mutodi posted on Twitter.
Commenting on the battle between Mutsvangwa and Mutodi, business tycoon Mutumwa Mawere said :
@energymutodi lifts a finger against @MinsterSBMoyo alleging that there is only one BOSS in Zim.
@energymutodi is a Deputy Minister yet on social media, he would appear to be accountable only to the President. Where is the order and structure in the govt? The centre has fallen apart.
The trial of Marry Mubaiwa on assault charges had to be postponed yesterday as some witnesses were observing the lockdown in their rural homes and cannot travel.
Mubaiwa, the estranged wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, is accused of assaulting the family maid, Delight Munyoro, at Hellenic School in Borrowdale following an altercation over the custody of children.
The State, led by Mr Charles Muchemwa and Mr Teddy Kamuriwo, proposed to postpone the case to June 20.
Since Mubaiwa had already been booked for surgery for June, the trial was deferred to July 27.
Mubaiwa, through her lawyer Ms Beatrice Mtetwa, indicated she was supposed to undergo a medical operation for injuries sustained in the Bulawayo blast at White City Stadium in 2018.
The operation had been scheduled for June since it was assumed the assault trial would be over by then.
Mubaiwa appeared in court before regional magistrate Mr Trynois Utahwashe. The State consented to the trial running from July 27 to 30.
Mr Muchemwa said: “Your Worship, this matter was supposed to be coming for trial today, but some members of the public are not yet allowed to come to court.
“The investigating officer has said the witnesses travelled to their rural homes where they are during lockdown and because of that, we are unable to proceed with trial today.
“We had suggested June 20 but I am advised by the defence that the accused person will be undergoing an operation during that period and they will be submitting the proof tomorrow.”
Ms Mtetwa confirmed the development saying: “Your Worship, it is correct that today (yesterday) was the day for trial commencement, but we were told that witnesses are not available.
“The State had proposed a new date that is June 20, but my client is supposed to undergo an operation during the same month. “The operation is due to the injuries she sustained during the Bulawayo blast.
Also by June 20, she would not have fully recovered,” she said.-State media
The trial of Marry Mubaiwa on assault charges had to be postponed yesterday as some witnesses were observing the lockdown in their rural homes and cannot travel.
Mubaiwa, the estranged wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, is accused of assaulting the family maid, Delight Munyoro, at Hellenic School in Borrowdale following an altercation over the custody of children.
The State, led by Mr Charles Muchemwa and Mr Teddy Kamuriwo, proposed to postpone the case to June 20.
Since Mubaiwa had already been booked for surgery for June, the trial was deferred to July 27.
Mubaiwa, through her lawyer Ms Beatrice Mtetwa, indicated she was supposed to undergo a medical operation for injuries sustained in the Bulawayo blast at White City Stadium in 2018.
The operation had been scheduled for June since it was assumed the assault trial would be over by then.
Mubaiwa appeared in court before regional magistrate Mr Trynois Utahwashe. The State consented to the trial running from July 27 to 30.
Mr Muchemwa said: “Your Worship, this matter was supposed to be coming for trial today, but some members of the public are not yet allowed to come to court.
“The investigating officer has said the witnesses travelled to their rural homes where they are during lockdown and because of that, we are unable to proceed with trial today.
“We had suggested June 20 but I am advised by the defence that the accused person will be undergoing an operation during that period and they will be submitting the proof tomorrow.”
Ms Mtetwa confirmed the development saying: “Your Worship, it is correct that today (yesterday) was the day for trial commencement, but we were told that witnesses are not available.
“The State had proposed a new date that is June 20, but my client is supposed to undergo an operation during the same month. “The operation is due to the injuries she sustained during the Bulawayo blast.
Also by June 20, she would not have fully recovered,” she said.-State media
There shld come a point where if one of our own is missing – all of us get out in our millions in search of that person. Just get up & drive or walk somewhere looking for them. The culture of shouting release them – release them & go to sleep is alien to true solidarity. @ZimEye
— Adv. Dr. Tapiwa Shumba (@ShumbaTapiwa) May 13, 2020
UNEDITED ANNOUNCEMENT BELOW:
Following a tip off our teams of Lawyers and Cdes just checked with Harare Central Homicide Section and Hon Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova are not at Harare Central Homicide underground cells. This is confirming our fears that the missing cdes could have been abducted at the police roadblock by State agents as earlier communicated.
Following a tip off our teams of Lawyers and Cdes just checked with Harare Central Homicide Section and Hon Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova are not at Harare Central Homicide underground cells.
This is confirming our fears that the missing cdes could have been abducted at the police roadblock by State agents as earlier communicated.
SOUTH Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa is addressing the nation on Wednesday from 8.30pm on the ongoing measures to manage the spread of the coronavirus through the implementation of a risk adjusted strategy.
Ramaphosa’s address follows a number of meetings of Cabinet and the National Coronavirus Command Council.
In his last address to the nation on April 23, Ramaphosa announced an easing of the nationwide lockdown. He said a phased reopening of the economy will begin on May 1.
Ramaphosa noted that although a lockdown remains the most effective way to limit the spread of the virus, the prosperity of South Africans would be at risk with a continued lockdown.
South Africa is on day 48 of its national lockdown.
By A Correspondent- MDC Alliance youth leaders Joana Mamombe and two others confirmed that they were arrested at a roadblock and said they were being taken to Central Police Station.
However, the trio’s whereabouts could not be located at any police station in and around Harare
Senator Lillian Timveous made a plea for president Emmerson Mnangagwa’s security details to release the trio who have “disappeared” after being arrested this afternoon.
“…..we will not look for them in the bush becausethey were arrested and put into police custody. Please release our girls in one piece…”
A Zimbabwean student studying at a private university in the Gujarat city of Vadodara died after he reportedly jumped off a moving truck on early Wednesday morning.
According to Online publication The Times of India, the deceased was identified as Blessing Muchangwara (23).
The tragedy occurred as Muchangwara and friend Anishu Regi, also Zimbabwean, were going to the former’s rented house when the tragedy occurred.
Local police said that the duo had taken lift from an unidentified truck driver to reach home from their friend’s house.
As the truck crossed a bridge and the driver did not stop, and Muchangwara jumped off the vehicle.
According to his friend, the truck driver did not stop even after that. He only stopped some three kilometres later and Regi walked back to the spot where Muchangwara had jumped.
According to police, Muchangwara had died by then as an unidentified vehicle had ran over him.
An offence of rash driving and causing death due to negligence was registered at a local police station.
Police officials said Muchangwara was from Mutare while Regi is from Harare. – zbc
“I don’t think there are any guarantees in life. I think the guarantees that we have are that we will die.
“That’s the one guarantee that I know.” – Julie Condliffe
By A Correspondent| Last night ZimEye resumed investigations on a self proclaimed millionaire, a registered British solicitor by name, Julie Condliffe as she failed to refund one of her victims, a paltry GBP 6,000.
Condliffe has been running a property market business in which she says she is a millionaire.
Condliffe who did not respond to requests for a comment last night, is already on record having been interviewed on another similar case when she admitted owing the first victim and quickly refunded them, right during the engagement.
The new case however is that of an individual only identified as Anon, who complains alleging she was conned more than £30,000.
There was a revelatory moment as Condliffe began to harrass another whistleblower via SMS during the program. This was as thousands tuned in to watch and listen.
For 12 years to date, ZimEye remains committed to investigative journalism that has seen victims of violence winning lumpsum amounts, millions of pounds being recovered and scores of victims winning court cases.
Condliffe told the victim who is reportedly suicidal, the only thing that is guaranteed in life is death. She said:
” I’ve also made some money in property; So the property game fluctuates up and down. There’s never any guarantee.
“I don’t think there are any guarantees in life. I think the guarantees that we have are that we will die.
“That’s the one guarantee that I know.
There was another moment when it was revealed Condliffe has made a killing on a book she has authored titled, “Strategies For Investment Success.” She says the book a No.1 Best Seller.
“But in terms of the property market, it is going to continue to fluctuate and people will make money, people have made money before me, people will make….”
Prominent Masvingo businessman Tanda Tavaruva has been declared liberation war hero.
Tavaruva (84) passed on at his Rhodene home on Monday after a long battle with diabetes and hypertension will be buried in Masvingo tomorrow.
Zanu PF Masvingo provincial spokesperson Ronald Ndava confirmed the development to The Mirror and said the honour is befitting for Tavaruva who is a pioneer of black empowerment in the province.
“I can confirm that our politburo has accorded the late Tavaruva liberation war hero status after our request as a province. Tavaruva is the pioneer of black empowerment who assisted many established businesses in the province” said Ndava.
Family spokesperson and second born son of the late Nyarai thanked Government for honouring their father.The late Tavaruva is going to be buried at Mangwandi Cemetry tomorrow, He said the family is still working on the burial program. #MasvingoMirror#
By Robert Sigauke- The day of reckoning came sooner than expected, as events outpace and outdate fortunes in the mainstream opposition.
It does read that the alliance’s top names have now came to face the reality that the ante has gone up a notch. This is real politics now, those who will lose, will simply lose.
On Monday 11 May 2020, 85 MDC Alliance MPs gathered at Harvest House to discuss supposed emergency issues which business turned out to be a stock taking exercise to sniff out and scare the Judas Iscariot spirit out of anybody before they answer the so called call of thirty pieces of silver. The tragedy that has painted the sun black is that Thomas’ doubting spirit has overwhelmed the upper room, hence the stock taking.
These are corona daring politics to instil fear on adults who know too well where they stand, and where they might stand on each turn where a decision affecting their stomachs and political careers has to be made. It is actually an insult on the intelligence and dignity of these honourable men and women of the August house, to require them to brave the infected streets and contaminated air all to assemble and pledge for the umpteenth time their “loyalty” to an illegitimate leader. In a mass voluntary movement, nobody should be frog marched to pledge their loyalty.
Loyalty is pledged to values that founded the movement, these never change only people come and go. Loyalty ceases to be, if it has to be tested by stock taking before crucial bridges are crossed. It should be a matter of confidence, of subconscious togetherness.
Accepting that some of the MPs gathered at the meeting on Monday are also eligible delegates for the extra ordinary congress, pertinent and important questions arise from this. Is the alliance taking stock to weigh chances of participating in the extra ordinary congress? Is the alliance fully aware that not all the MPs gathered there belong to MDC-T, which is at the centre of the wrangle in courts, and therefore those outside the MDC-T component may not participate or vote in the upcoming congress?
Should the MDC-T in the alliance decide that they should resign en masse and pull out of parliament, is there an alternative programme for these cadres who will find themselves as new trespassers at parliament buildings and its programmes, without the perks and income. Biti’s rebellion in 2014 left many recalled MPs in the cold, they all remember this too well.
Whether it is factual or not, this is not the time for Wanachi to disclose to a group of hares that carrots are dangling across the river, it is both suicidal and renders the Monday meeting potentially wasted.
There are opposition cadres who are tired of the duel against the ever shrewd ruling party and have seen many a time hope promised and hope fading away for decades since the inception of the democratic project in the late 90s.
The western capitals too, are fast losing patience with the student kind of politics displayed by the Sikhalas, Hwendes and Bitis. Is it not Hwende who declared in a tweet that the MDC-T of Morgan Tsvangirai “went” with Khupe?
If it is on record then that the MDC of Tsvangirai is the one that had offices a Harvest House, is the alliance not contradicting itself? Sikhala continues making statements that border on treason to whip up populist sentiment, it seems the politics of thinking have all vanished into thin air.
I would like to believe Professor Welshman Ncube does not agree with most of these reckless actions, the man is a strategic thinking leader.
There are many within the opposition and ruling party who have awoken to the reality that the solution to the country’s problems involves everyone from either side.
This is the surest way that will bring food on the table for suffering Zimbabweans, people want buttered or unbuttered bread, resuscitation of industries, others in diaspora want to come back home. Unity, is the surest way that will bring peace and security for all people from all walks of life to exercise the very same rights demanded by the democratic project.
Lest we forget, Zimbabwe was born out of bloodshed, and any serious nationalist project does not see this cheap. The frank truth, an eventual democratic project government will not stand a nationalist movement like Zanu PF on the outside pissing in to the system as an opposition. The Entumbane episode in the early 80s is only a painful highlight of such possibilities. Zimbabweans can still achieve democracy, peace, bread basket status and security without the barrel. This is what the student politicians do not see, it takes foresight.
Whatever is left of Zanu PF will not reform itself out of power, and neither will it be taken out of power through the ballot easily, the hold it has on the majority of voters is one of deep emotional trigger, believe this.
Alex Magaisa correctly captured that the most important task of the opposition in the aftermath of the 2018 elections, was to mobilise and break the rural vote impasse. This is the game changer.
The allegations of a GNU in the making by the blabbermouth Wanachi is only confirmation, if true, of the predictions made in my previous article (Lest the Alliance will bark outside the Tent) relating to the fact that the legality and political legitimacy requirements of the MDC-T were all in pursuit of bringing the party to POLAD and hammer out a political settlement which I summarised, “will not end with drinking mazoeon the negotiating table.”
As means towards the end, there is talk in reliable circles that amendments of the laws are impending to the effect that the party with the MPs that have been recalled or resigned, will simply second and nominate a replacement. Being the legally recognised party leadership, Mwonzora et al will be the ones to put in place systems that will nominate who goes to parliament and who does not.
This will be the third score. This will make a lot of cents oh excuse me, sense while saving dollars. The fiscus is already burdened to deficit by the COVID thrusts, and holding such a huge number of by elections will only defeat the purpose of noble efforts to curb the spread of the virus. This is what the echoes from the system say, and this does make sense. Dollars need to be saved, lives need to be saved.
It is high time that the alliance leaders wake up and realise that the train is fast leaving them behind, they must put their house in order, be humble and salvage the little that is left. At times it is wisdom to take a step back to make progress forward. Arrogance is indeed a highway to self destruction. The house is on fire, see the inhabitants running to safety. The four already dismissed legislators had no choice, the remaining MPs still have and they will cleverly choose their battles.
The government of Zimbabwe has finally announced that it is offering free transport for its nationals who are stuck in South Africa to enable them to return home. The government had initially assisted Zimbabweans in South Africa who could afford to pay for their own fares by getting buses to transport them from Johannesburg to Beitbridge for R600.
The government has now announced that it is now in a position to help those who want to be repatriated back home but who do not have any funds. This comes after businessman Justice Maphosa of Bigtime Strategic Group has generously donated funds for transportation, food and personal protective equipment for the stranded Zimbabweans. This will allow at least 400 Zimbabweans to be repatriated back home.
Below is a communique from the Zimbabwe Consulate in Johannesburg which iHarare is publishing in full,
ASSISTED REPATRIATION OF ZIMBABWEAN NATIONALS FROM SOUTH
AFRICA
Following the declaration of the state of national disaster, and the subsequent
nationwide lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of novel coronavirus [Covid-19] in
South Arica, the Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Arica has been reaching out to
Zimbabweans within South Africa who are faced with numerous challenges.
The Embassy subsequently received plentiful distress calls from some Zimbabwean
nationals who are in South Africa. The Embassy was inundated with requests varying
{tom appeals or help with food supplies, pleas for from Zimbabweans with own means
to travel back home, and petitions from Zimbabwean nationals in need of
transportation back home.
To that end, the Embassy sought travel permits for Zimbabweans who were in need
of self-repatriation, using own transport as well as buses, from South Africa’s
Department of international Relations ané Cooperation [DIRCO] and many have since
travelled back home while others are still waiting for their travel permits. There are
buses set to ferry Zimbabwean nationals back home, under the sell-funded
‘repatriation where the travellers pay for their own transportation.
There are buses set to transport Zimbabweans back home, with the carrying capacity
Strictly limited to 70 per cent in order to comply with South Africa’s current lockdown
regulations for public transport.
A considerable number of the requests received by the Embassy are for assisted on
‘humanitarian grounds from Zimbabwean nationals who, during this lockdown in South
Africa, are no longer able to sustain their stay in the country due to loss of incomes.
The Embassy is pleased to announce that through a close partnership with Mr Justice
Maphosa, the Chief Executive and Founder of Bigtime Strategic Group, transport has
now been availed for Zimbabwean nationals who could not afford to travel back home
to be assisted in making the one-way trip.
The generous assistance provided by Mr Maphosa will cover the cost of hiring buses.
for around 400 Zimbabwean nationals, the provision of food for the travellers on the
trip, and a provision of food and personal protective equipment while in quarantine in
Zimbabwe.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Migration
‘Agency is providing technical support to the Embassy in planning and carrying out
this humanitarian repatriation exercise. The technical support includes coordination of
pre-departure arrangements, pre-embarkation medical check and distribution of
COVID-19 related awareness material.
The pre-embarkation checks will be done before every trip. It should also be noted
that upon crossing into Zimbabwe, all the returnees are subjected to mandatory
quarantine at designated centres. The costs thereof are carried by the Government of
Zimbabwe.
Subsequent communication will be made regarding the assistance for distressed
Zimbabwean nationals who elect to remain within the borders of South Africa,
Zimcomm SA spokesperson Mr Bongani Mazwi Mkwananzi
The Zimbabwe Community in South Africa (Zimcomm SA) has appealed to the Zimbabwean and South African governments to allow cross-border transporters commonly known as ‘Omalayitsha’ to access the borders to move groceries and goods from migrant workers.
The organisation said the cross-border transporters play a key role in sustaining economies of both countries at community and national level and that such a move would help enhance the food and nutrition value chain.
In a statement today, Zimcomm SA spokesperson Mr Bongani Mazwi Mkwananzi said most families in Zimbabwe relied on migrant workers in the neighbouring country for their general upkeep.
“South Africa is home to thousands of Zimbabwean migrant workers most of whom are supporting their families by sending groceries home on a weekly basis through the services of Omalayitsha,” he said.
“I don’t think there are any guarantees in life. I think the guarantees that we have are that we will die.
“That’s the one guarantee that I know.” – Julie Condliffe
By A Correspondent| Last night ZimEye resumed investigations on a self proclaimed millionaire, a registered British solicitor by name, Julie Condliffe as she failed to refund one of her victims, a paltry GBP 6,000.
Condliffe has been running a property market business in which she says she is a millionaire.
Condliffe who did not respond to requests for a comment last night, is already on record having been interviewed on another similar case when she admitted owing the first victim and quickly refunded them, right during the engagement.
The new case however is that of an individual only identified as Anon, who complains alleging she was conned more than £30,000.
There was a revelatory moment as Condliffe began to harrass another whistleblower via SMS during the program. This was as thousands tuned in to watch and listen.
For 12 years to date, ZimEye remains committed to investigative journalism that has seen victims of violence winning lumpsum amounts, millions of pounds being recovered and scores of victims winning court cases.
Condliffe told the victim who is reportedly suicidal, the only thing that is guaranteed in life is death. She said:
” I’ve also made some money in property; So the property game fluctuates up and down. There’s never any guarantee.
“I don’t think there are any guarantees in life. I think the guarantees that we have are that we will die.
“That’s the one guarantee that I know.
There was another moment when it was revealed Condliffe has made a killing on a book she has authored titled, “Strategies For Investment Success.” She says the book a No.1 Best Seller.
“But in terms of the property market, it is going to continue to fluctuate and people will make money, people have made money before me, people will make….”
Deputy Government Spokesperson Dr. Energy Mutodi has appealed to the nation to pray for him because his life is under threat from a grouping of people led by War veterans Chairperson Chris Mutsvangwa and Foreign Affairs Minister General Sibusiso Moyo.
Posting on Twitter, Mutodi said, “Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers.”
Trouble started when Mutodi posted a twitter a few days ago comparing Zimbabwe’s response to Coronavirus and that of Tanzania.
On Monday, General Moyo issued a statement disowning Mutodi’s tweet and ZBC covered the story.
Insiders at the ZBC who spoke to this reporter revealed that Mutodi issued an internal memo challenging General Moyo’s statement resulting in Moyo summoning Minister of Communications Monica Mutsvangwa.
Chris Mutsvanga has been accused by ZANU PF officials of harboring Presidential ambitions and using the state-owned media machinery to advance his pursuits.
A Zimbabwean student studying in India died this week after he jumped off a moving truck. The student, Blessing Muchangwara, was 23 and he was at an educational institution called Vadodara.
Muchangwara, who is from Mutare was traveling home with his friend Anishu Regi. They took a lift from an unidentified open truck driver on a highway. Muchangwara jumped off the truck as the truck crossed a bridge and was run over by another vehicle.
It is not clear why Muchangwara jumped from the truck.
Muchangwara was from Mutare city while Regi is from the capital city of Harare.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Dr. Energy Mutodi has appealed to the nation to pray for him because his life is under threat from a grouping of people led by War veterans Chairperson Chris Mutsvangwa and Foreign Affairs Minister General Sibusiso Moyo.
Posting on Twitter, Mutodi said, “Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers.”
Trouble started when Mutodi posted a twitter a few days ago comparing Zimbabwe’s response to Coronavirus and that of Tanzania.
On Monday, General Moyo issued a statement disowning Mutodi’s tweet and ZBC covered the story.
Insiders at the ZBC who spoke to this reporter revealed that Mutodi issued an internal memo challenging General Moyo’s statement resulting in Moyo summoning Minister of Communications Monica Mutsvangwa.
Chris Mutsvanga has been accused by ZANU PF officials of harboring Presidential ambitions and using the state-owned media machinery to advance his pursuits.
Morgan Komichi one of the top MDC leaders in support of the recent supreme court judgement attempting to remove Nelson Chamisa from the presidency of the party, has said that he accepts Emmerson Mnangagwa’s victory in the 2018 elections.
Komichi had before the ruling been part of the MDC chorus that claimed Mnangagwa had not won the elections and that he was therefore illegitimate. He says he now accepts the ruling that declared the Zanu-PF leader the legitimate president of Zimbabwe.
Said Komichi in an interview with NewsDay:
We received advice from a lot of people and organisations telling us that the card of Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy was no longer viable.
The matter of Mnangagwa’s legitimacy was decided by the Constitutional Court and we accept that ruling. We should respect court processes as a democratic and constitutional party.
Democracy is a game of numbers, but now that I have pronounced myself, when he walks in, I will stand up for him and respect him. We have to respect decisions that were made by professionals.
We did not have evidence on whether we had won the election or not.
What I can say for sure is that we did not verify the results. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) just announced the results and I stood up to say the results were fake; but after we lost in court, we have to respect the courts.
Two people died in a fatal road traffic accident that occurred on Monday along Domboshava Road at Sally Mugabe Heights turn off where a bus with 30 passengers on board collided with a commuter omnibus with 3 passengers.
The driver of the commuter omnibus and one of his passengers died on the spot as a result of the crash while 11 people from the bus were injured.
Police urged drivers to be extremely cautious at intersections regardless of the RIGHT OF WAY to avoid road traffic accidents.
Meanwhile a pedestrian was hit by a trailer of a passing truck after he allegedly jumped in front of the oncoming truck at the 264km peg along the Masvingo – Beitbridge road on 11/5/20. The pedestrian sustained serious injuries and died on the spot. Investigations are in progress.
Government says communities have a big role to play in the rehabilitation of released inmates.
This follows the release of more than 4 000 inmates under the Presidential Clemency.
Speaking to ZBC News, the Permanent Secretary the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Mrs Virginia Mabhiza said communities need to help government in the rehabilitation process of released inmates, adding that their release under the presidential pardon was important in light of the threats of COVID-19.
“We encourage communities to embrace the recently released inmates and help them in recovery and rehabilitation. They are human beings and let’s work with them. Most of them have reformed and let’s not discriminate on them,” she said. The sanctity of human life is confirmed by the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the release of the inmates is testimony of government’s commitment to constitutional provisions.
The Harare City Council says it has covered much of the work at both Rufaro and Gwanzura stadiums.
The two venues are undergoing extensive renovations to meet the minimum standards after they were condemned by both Zifa and Caf.
Gwanzura hasn’t been used for the past five years and teams had abandoned it for its poor state. The council says they have completed work on sewer and internal deblocking and enhancement of drainage. Solar fittings on borehole water supplies have also been done.
Preparation of playing surface in terms of levelling is complete but the turf is awaiting laying. Much of the focus is now on toilets, changing rooms, doping and press rooms with most of the materials already procured.
At Rufaro, the turnstiles have been repaired while levelling of the ground for turf is 80% complete.
Installation of solar power for borehole water supply is complete while drilling and installation of another borehole are to be completed this week.
The work is also being done on the designs of new changing rooms, doping and press rooms to conform with CAF requirements underway.-Soccer 24
MDC Alliance Harare West MP Joana Mamombe, Cecilia and Netsai Marova arrested at a Road Block near National Sports Stadium . They are detained at Harare Central Police Station Law and Order Section.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has been left shocked following the passing on of Mr Tanda Tavaruva, the legendary Masvingo United FC owner and financier.
Mhunga as he was popularly known is a man who embodied football not only in Masvingo but in Zimbabwe. He had passion for the beautiful game, for the upliftment of his society and the creation of employment across the business and sporting fields.
He lived for the game, loved the game and most importantly ensured it contributed to the welfare of thousands of workers and families in and around Masvingo through his transport and farming business and football investments.
We cannot mention the Premier Soccer League, and indeed Zimbabwean football, without mentioning Mhunga and Masvingo United.
Many players and coaches are Masvingo United FC products . From the likes of Luke Masomere, Taurai Mangwiro, Saul Chaminuka, to Godfrey Dondo, Costa Nhamoinesu, Ovidy Karuru, Tafadzwa Dube, Lloyd Hlahla, Norman Togara, Wonder Sithole, Itai Gwandu, Musareka Jenitala, Kuraone Mudhambani to mention but a few, graced Mucheke Stadium and ensured fun filled and competitive match days, from the efforts of the great Tanda, a man of the people.
Today, we mourn the passing on of another giant in football and it is our game which as fate would have it seems to be getting poorer each year with the loss of such dedicated cadres of the sport.
We implore the Zimbabwean football family to take lessons from the legacy that Tanda left in the Eastern Region where his son would also follow suit and bankroll Gutu Leopards.
To the Tavaruva families, please find solace in the fact that today he is in a better place, in the loving arms of the Almighty God. May you be comforted.
We are with you during these very difficult moments.
May His Dear Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE ZIMBABWE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
(ZIFA): XOLISANI GWESELA, COMMUNICATIONS AND COMPETITIONS MANAGER.
Farai Dziva|Former Liverpool forward Michael Owen has said he joined rivals Manchester United after Rafa Benitez told him he was going to sign someone else.
Owen was leaving Newcastle United in 2009 when he enquired whether the Reds were interested in him.
But Benitez who was the coach at that time had other transfer options on the table.
“I was leaving Newcastle and the first thing I did was phone Carra [Jamie Carragher] and said ‘speak to Rafa Benitez’,” Owen told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Carra got back to me and said ‘no, he’s about to sign someone’. I think it was David Ngog, but he had already had some great players in the team and basically they didn’t need another centre-forward. What do you want me to do at that point?”
This was the second time the retired striker had pushed for a return to Anfield, having done so four years before when he returned to England.
After his agent had talked with other clubs, the only options that were available were Everton, Hull City and Manchester United.
That’s when Owen decided to join the United in a move that was criticised by some given the rivalry between the Red Devils and his boyhood club.
“As soon as I heard Man Utd were in for me then I thought, obviously first choice would be Liverpool and to go back there but if Liverpool aren’t going to want me and these are all my options then wow, Manchester United in the Champions League, I don’t have to move, I know loads of the lads. It was a brilliant move.
“I couldn’t believe my luck when Manchester United came in for me. Here’s me, regressing as a player in my own mind and still the champions of England wanted to sign me. I was absolutely buzzing when they wanted me,” he said.
Prison Boss Paradzai Zimondi Speaks- "We are in a harsh economic situation and we sometimes rely on our partners to assist us rehabilitate offenders…." pic.twitter.com/1iRxWkeOXr
By Own Correspondent| High Court Judge Justice Jacob Manzunzu on Monday 11 May 2020 ordered Chinhoyi Municipality to stop demolishing vending stalls and repair a shade which was damaged by its employees as they pulled down structures owned by some informal traders.
Justice Manzunzu granted the order to stop the demolition of any vending stalls and property belonging to small and medium enterprises as well as informal vendors at Gadzema Flea Market in Chinhoyi after some informal traders represented by Kudzai Choga and Obey Shava of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights filed an urgent chamber application on 6 May 2020 seeking an order to stop the local authority from demolishing their vending stalls and wares.
In the application, the informal traders, who include Tafadzwa Marimo, Emmanuel Ngwaru, Richard Svosve, Pepukayi Marega and Devis Shopo, who operate from Gadzema Flea Market in Chinhoyi in Mashonaland West province and have been paying fees and levies to the local authority, argued that the demolition of their vending stalls amounts to compulsory deprivation of property in violation of the fundamental rights to property enshrined in section 71 of the Constitution.
Justice Manzunzu also ordered Chinhoyi Municipality to renovate Shade Number Two at Gadzema Flea Market, which had been damaged by some municipal police officers who had pulled it down last week.
The Judge stated that in the event that Chinhoyi Municipality wished to carry out renovations of some vending stalls at Gadzema Flea Market, it should comply with the provisions of section 32 of the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act as read with section 199(2)(c) of the Urban Councils Act. The provisions require proper notice of any proposed demolition of illegal structure to be given to the owner of such a structure and for an appeal against the notice to be filed with the Administrative Court within 28 days, during which period no action may be taken on the basis of the notice until the appeal is either determined or abandoned.
Breaking- MDC Alliance Harare West MP Joana Mamombe, Cecilia and Netsai Marova arrested at a Road Block near National Sports Stadium . They are detained at Harare Central Police Station Law and Order Section.
Farai Dziva|A former Real Madrid striker was taken by the police for questioning in connection with a cocaine smuggling deal in Spain.
Edwin Congo, the Colombian who signed for Los Blancos in 1999, was taken by the law enforcement agents in the capital, Madrid, and reportedly questioned for an hour before being released.
“I’m very calm,” he told Spanish radio El Chiringuito.
“It’s not a comfortable situation, but I’m at home, relaxed. They asked me a series of questions and, at the end, I returned home.”
“The police said to me that I have to stay away from certain people who are no good for me,” he added.
What can I do to protect myself and prevent the spread of disease?
Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. Many countries around the world have seen cases of COVID-19 and several have seen outbreaks.
Authorities in China and some other countries have succeeded in slowing or stopping their outbreaks.
However, the situation is unpredictable so check regularly for the latest news.
You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions:
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses.
Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth.
From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene.
This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
Keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 hotspots (cities or local areas where COVID-19 is spreading widely). If possible, avoid traveling to places – especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.
Why? You have a higher chance of catching COVID-19 in one of these areas.
Credit:WHO
Inserted by Zimbabwe Online Health Centre
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MDC Alliance Harare West MP Joana Mamombe, Youth Assembly Deputy Chairperson Cecilia Chimbiri and another youth member Netsai Marova have been arrested in connection with a demonstration staged in Warren Park surburb today.
The three were reportedly identified by police at a Road Block near National Sports Stadium.
They are detained at Harare Central Police Station Law and Order Section
The MDC Youth Assembly condemns in strongest terms the illegal arrest of National Vice Chairperson Cecilia Chimbiri, Deputy Organ Netsai Marova and Secretary for Policy and Research, Hon Joana Mamombe.
The trio are currently illegally held in custody at Harare Central Police Station.
As usual the police are still to place charges on the trio.
It is clear that the corrupt, illegitimate and failed Emmerson Mnangagwa regime has engaged the panic gear hence these unjustified arrests.
As an Assembly, we are not going to be intimidated in our resolve to pursue the National Democratic Agenda.
We declare and demand for the unconditional release of our leaders.
Either the rogue regime release our leaders or face retribution from angry and hungry masses.
Enough is enough!
Stephen Sarkozy Chuma MDCYouthAssemblyNationalSpokesperson
Farai Dziva|The Premier Soccer League(PSL) has described the late business tycoon and sponsor of Masvingo United FC, Tanda “Mhunga” Tavaruva as a man who fought tirelessly for the development of football in Zimbabwe.
See full PSL statement below:
It is with deep sadness that we learnt of the untimely passing of Masvingo United FC owner, Mr Tanda Tavaruva (Mudhara Mhunga).
Mudhara Mhunga built a formidable football club that made Mucheke Stadium a fortress and pride of Masvingo Province during its time in the PSL.
He will be remembered as an outstanding businessman, a humble individual and a legend who transformed the game of football in so many ways.
His contribution to Zimbabwean football will be told for many generations to come.
Our heartfelt condolences go to the Tavaruva family, friends and the entire football fraternity during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Farai Dziva|Former Masvingo United FC players have joined the nation in mourning the late business tycoon Tanda” Mhunga” Tavaruva.
The legendary businessman succumbed to diabetes and hypertension in Masvingo on Monday.Mhunga was the sponsor of Masvingo United FC during the club’s hey days.
Warriors player Ovidy Karuru said:
“Tanda Tavaruva, Mudhara Mhunga. God why now when we can’t travel to pay our last respects? I can’t be there to pay my last respect to the man who made me who I am today, no words. Rest In Peace baba vangu, another angel called to heaven.”
Blessing Gumiso, who had a season at the side described the late Tavaruva as a football loving person, who was always jovial and cracked jokes with players.
“Rest in peace our football father. It was a blessing playing a season for Masvingo, Una Una. I shall forever cherish you. I remember when you used to come to camp with a big envelope full of bonuses asking for a win before games and you would crack jokes before leaving. Until we meet again,” wrote Gumiso on Facebook.
Other former players like Tapiwa Khumbuyani, Johnson Zimbabe and India-based Simbarashe Gate also expressed their condolences on the passing away of the businessman.
Farai Dziva|Hard-hitting MDC Alliance vice president Tendai Biti has said Emmerson Mnangagwa and Thokozani Khupe want to form a political pact under the guise of a Government of National Unity.
Biti also argued that after the formation of the so called Government of National Unity, elections will be suspended for seven years.
“The regime is broke and broke in absolute terms .The coffers are empty & they are generating salaries through the RTGS ponzi scheme .To date Treasury has not disbursed #SafetyNets payment to Min of Social Services.Tobacco sales have had a poor start and donors not coming on board .
Desperate regime actively negotiating some “GNU” with Supreme Court created Frankenstein outfit and other dross with constitutional amendments being mooted some of which are to suspend all elections for 7 years,” argued Biti.
“The desperate marriage of unelectable desperados not popular inside.
No amount of lipstick or political gamesmanship can save regime and its acolytes. No amount of manipulation and abuse of state institutions will save same.Only robust political solution that respects the people’s will and commits to irrecoverable reforms can save Zimbabwe. #ZanupfMustGo”
Farai Dziva|Hard-hitting MDC Alliance vice president Tendai Biti has said Emmerson Mnangagwa and Thokozani Khupe want to form a “dangerous” political pact under the guise of a “Government of National Unity.”
Biti also argued that after the formation of the so called Government of National Unity, elections will be suspended for seven years.
“The regime is broke and broke in absolute terms .The coffers are empty & they are generating salaries through the RTGS ponzi scheme .To date Treasury has not disbursed #SafetyNets payment to Min of Social Services.Tobacco sales have had a poor start and donors not coming on board .
Desperate regime actively negotiating some “GNU” with Supreme Court created Frankenstein outfit and other dross with constitutional amendments being mooted some of which are to suspend all elections for 7 years,” argued Biti.
“The desperate marriage of unelectable desperados not popular inside.
No amount of lipstick or political gamesmanship can save regime and its acolytes. No amount of manipulation and abuse of state institutions will save same.Only robust political solution that respects the people’s will and commits to irrecoverable reforms can save Zimbabwe. #ZanupfMustGo”
Farai Dziva|Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi has claimed he is now living in fear of the “Chris Mutsvangwa and SB Moyo coalition.”
Writing on Twitter, Mutodi appealed for prayers as he was not aware of what the two were planning against him.
On Monday Mutodi accused his boss Monica Mutsvangwa of capturing state broadcaster, ZBC.
“Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers,” Mutodi posted on Twitter.
Commenting on the battle between Mutsvangwa and Mutodi, business tycoon Mutumwa Mawere said :
@energymutodi lifts a finger against @MinsterSBMoyo alleging that there is only one BOSS in Zim.
@energymutodi is a Deputy Minister yet on social media, he would appear to be accountable only to the President. Where is the order and structure in the govt? The centre has fallen apart.
Farai Dziva|Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi has claimed he is now living in fear of the “Chris Mutsvangwa and SB Moyo coalition.”
Writing on Twitter, Mutodi appealed for prayers as he was not aware of what the two were planning against him.
On Monday Mutodi accused his boss Monica Mutsvangwa of capturing state broadcaster, ZBC.
“Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers,” Mutodi posted on Twitter.
Commenting on the battle between Mutsvangwa and Mutodi, business tycoon Mutumwa Mawere said :
@energymutodi lifts a finger against @MinsterSBMoyo alleging that there is only one BOSS in Zim.
@energymutodi is a Deputy Minister yet on social media, he would appear to be accountable only to the President. Where is the order and structure in the govt? The centre has fallen apart.
By Own Correspondent| Deputy Information minister Energy Minister Energy Mutodi has exposed fissures in the ruling Zanu PF and government saying he is now living in fear of a coalition involving Foreign Affairs minister SB Moyo and War Veterans leader Christopher Mutsvangwa.
Early this week, Mutodi mocked Tanzania for resorting to prayers to fight lockdown while praising Zimbabwe for the lockdown.
The tweet did not go down well with government which was forced to distance itself from the remarks.
This forced Mutodi to hit back, commenting on a ZBC story saying it showed the abuse of state media by Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa and her husband Chris.
He has gone further to claim that he is living in fear of SB Moyo and Mutsvangwa.
“Living in fear of the Chris Mutsvangwa-SB Moyo coalition. I hope it won’t resort to wartime tactics. Appealing for prayers,” said Mutodi
Could Mutodi be revealing power fissures in both Zanu PF and the government or exposing a new faction headed by the two men he mentioned in his Twitter post
Farai Dziva|MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has accused Emmerson Mnangagwa’ s government of choosing politics ahead of people’s lives.
Chamisa also criticized the Supreme Court ruling on the MDC leadership dispute and the recall of MPs.
“The most significant Government achievement made during this COVID-19 lockdown in Zimbabwe is the bizarre handing down of a Supreme Court judgment and the abusive summoning of parliament, not to fight the Coronavirus pandemic, but to fight political battles.
Why do we put politics ahead of nation building and saving lives?? livesbeforepolitics,”Chamisa argued.
Farai Dziva|MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has accused Emmerson Mnangagwa’ s government of choosing politics ahead of people’s lives.
Chamisa also criticized the Supreme Court ruling on the MDC leadership dispute and the recall of MPs.
“The most significant Government achievement made during this COVID-19 lockdown in Zimbabwe is the bizarre handing down of a Supreme Court judgment and the abusive summoning of parliament, not to fight the Coronavirus pandemic, but to fight political battles.
Why do we put politics ahead of nation building and saving lives?? livesbeforepolitics,”Chamisa argued.
"I'd also like to report to your excellency and your honourables, so far no IMPORTED cases of coronavirus to Ximbabwe from China. And no confirmed cases in Ximbabwe have connections with Chinese nationals," says Ambassador @China_Amb_Zim who pronounces ZIMBABWE as XIMBABWE pic.twitter.com/9ln9xQUvcn
LOCAL Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo has said Councillor Somveli Dlamini remains the legitimate mayor for Victoria Falls as he can only be removed from office through a general election or a tribunal set by Government.
Minister Moyo wrote to the municipality yesterday nullifying an election conducted by 10 councillors which replaced Clr Dlamini with ward 5 Clr Richard Mguni last Thursday.
This puts to rest a tussle for power between Clr Dlamini and Clr Mguni which had seen the former disowning a resignation letter he purportedly wrote in March, as he claimed he remains the legitimate mayor for the town.
Minister Moyo confirmed writing to the municipality yesterday.
“He was not fired from being mayor. He can only be fired or removed in terms of the Constitution or if there is a tribunal set of which I haven’t put any. What it means is that since he has been reinstated, he returns to the office of the Mayor,” said Minister Moyo.
Home Affairs minister Kazembe Kazembe has said motorists should put on masks even when they are alone in their cars online with government requirement.
He made the remarks during a post cabinet media briefing.
He added that police officers manning road blocks into city centres are allowed to check letters confirming that people getting into town are part of essential services.
By Robert Sigauke- The day of reckoning came sooner than expected, as events outpace and outdate fortunes in the mainstream opposition.
It does read that the alliance’s top names have now came to face the reality that the ante has gone up a notch. This is real politics now, those who will lose, will simply lose.
On Monday 11 May 2020, 85 MDC Alliance MPs gathered at Harvest House to discuss supposed emergency issues which business turned out to be a stock taking exercise to sniff out and scare the Judas Iscariot spirit out of anybody before they answer the so called call of thirty pieces of silver. The tragedy that has painted the sun black is that Thomas’ doubting spirit has overwhelmed the upper room, hence the stock taking.
These are corona daring politics to instil fear on adults who know too well where they stand, and where they might stand on each turn where a decision affecting their stomachs and political careers has to be made. It is actually an insult on the intelligence and dignity of these honourable men and women of the August house, to require them to brave the infected streets and contaminated air all to assemble and pledge for the umpteenth time their “loyalty” to an illegitimate leader. In a mass voluntary movement, nobody should be frog marched to pledge their loyalty.
Loyalty is pledged to values that founded the movement, these never change only people come and go. Loyalty ceases to be, if it has to be tested by stock taking before crucial bridges are crossed. It should be a matter of confidence, of subconscious togetherness.
Accepting that some of the MPs gathered at the meeting on Monday are also eligible delegates for the extra ordinary congress, pertinent and important questions arise from this. Is the alliance taking stock to weigh chances of participating in the extra ordinary congress? Is the alliance fully aware that not all the MPs gathered there belong to MDC-T, which is at the centre of the wrangle in courts, and therefore those outside the MDC-T component may not participate or vote in the upcoming congress?
Should the MDC-T in the alliance decide that they should resign en masse and pull out of parliament, is there an alternative programme for these cadres who will find themselves as new trespassers at parliament buildings and its programmes, without the perks and income. Biti’s rebellion in 2014 left many recalled MPs in the cold, they all remember this too well.
Whether it is factual or not, this is not the time for Wanachi to disclose to a group of hares that carrots are dangling across the river, it is both suicidal and renders the Monday meeting potentially wasted.
There are opposition cadres who are tired of the duel against the ever shrewd ruling party and have seen many a time hope promised and hope fading away for decades since the inception of the democratic project in the late 90s.
The western capitals too, are fast losing patience with the student kind of politics displayed by the Sikhalas, Hwendes and Bitis. Is it not Hwende who declared in a tweet that the MDC-T of Morgan Tsvangirai “went” with Khupe?
If it is on record then that the MDC of Tsvangirai is the one that had offices a Harvest House, is the alliance not contradicting itself? Sikhala continues making statements that border on treason to whip up populist sentiment, it seems the politics of thinking have all vanished into thin air.
I would like to believe Professor Welshman Ncube does not agree with most of these reckless actions, the man is a strategic thinking leader.
There are many within the opposition and ruling party who have awoken to the reality that the solution to the country’s problems involves everyone from either side.
This is the surest way that will bring food on the table for suffering Zimbabweans, people want buttered or unbuttered bread, resuscitation of industries, others in diaspora want to come back home. Unity, is the surest way that will bring peace and security for all people from all walks of life to exercise the very same rights demanded by the democratic project.
Lest we forget, Zimbabwe was born out of bloodshed, and any serious nationalist project does not see this cheap. The frank truth, an eventual democratic project government will not stand a nationalist movement like Zanu PF on the outside pissing in to the system as an opposition. The Entumbane episode in the early 80s is only a painful highlight of such possibilities. Zimbabweans can still achieve democracy, peace, bread basket status and security without the barrel. This is what the student politicians do not see, it takes foresight.
Whatever is left of Zanu PF will not reform itself out of power, and neither will it be taken out of power through the ballot easily, the hold it has on the majority of voters is one of deep emotional trigger, believe this.
Alex Magaisa correctly captured that the most important task of the opposition in the aftermath of the 2018 elections, was to mobilise and break the rural vote impasse. This is the game changer.
The allegations of a GNU in the making by the blabbermouth Wanachi is only confirmation, if true, of the predictions made in my previous article (Lest the Alliance will bark outside the Tent) relating to the fact that the legality and political legitimacy requirements of the MDC-T were all in pursuit of bringing the party to POLAD and hammer out a political settlement which I summarised, “will not end with drinking mazoeon the negotiating table.”
As means towards the end, there is talk in reliable circles that amendments of the laws are impending to the effect that the party with the MPs that have been recalled or resigned, will simply second and nominate a replacement. Being the legally recognised party leadership, Mwonzora et al will be the ones to put in place systems that will nominate who goes to parliament and who does not.
This will be the third score. This will make a lot of cents oh excuse me, sense while saving dollars. The fiscus is already burdened to deficit by the COVID thrusts, and holding such a huge number of by elections will only defeat the purpose of noble efforts to curb the spread of the virus. This is what the echoes from the system say, and this does make sense. Dollars need to be saved, lives need to be saved.
It is high time that the alliance leaders wake up and realise that the train is fast leaving them behind, they must put their house in order, be humble and salvage the little that is left. At times it is wisdom to take a step back to make progress forward. Arrogance is indeed a highway to self destruction. The house is on fire, see the inhabitants running to safety. The four already dismissed legislators had no choice, the remaining MPs still have and they will cleverly choose their battles.
Robert Sigauke is a Legal Manager, Author and Political Commentator. He writes from Johannesburg. [email protected]
By A Correspondent- A Zanu Pf stalwart went around Kuwadzana, Harare calling on citizens to register their names as Zanu Pf supporters in order to access food aid during the Lockdown.
Said the Zimbabwe Peace Project in its report:
“Zanu PF political commissar a Mr. Guta of Kuwadzana constituency went around Kuwadzana paddocks telling perceived Zanu PF supporters to register their names with ruling party chairperson Mr. Mukazika to get government food assistance under the COVID-19 State fund.
“On 1 April 2020, Guta toured ward 9 and 10 encouraging devoted ruling party members to check if their names still existed under the party’s cell structures at branch level. Most residents who do not participate in ruling party programs were not included in the process.”
By A Correspondent- Morgen Komichi, who was the MDC Alliance’s chief elections agent and was arrested for publicly challenging the 2018 presidential elections, has made a U-turn and endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the country’s legitimate leader.
Komichi is now backing acting MDC-T leader Thokozani Khupe after the Supreme Court ruling ordered her to convene an extra-ordinary congress within three months.
The Supreme Court ruling which ruled that Nelson Chamisa was unconstitutionally elevated to party deputy president by the late MDC founder, Morgan Tsvangirai, in 2016, also ordered the party to go back to its 2014 structures, paving the way for Khupe.
Khupe quit the party in a huff after losing the leadership battle to Chamisa in 2018 and formed her own faction of MDC-T, which she ran under in the 2018 presidential elections. After the Supreme Court ruling Komichi and Douglas Mwonzora immediately dumped Chamisa and joined Khupe.
Mwonzora fired the first shots last week when he recalled four MDC Alliance MPs as Khupe moved to take full control of the opposition party.
Komichi and Mwonzora, both senators, were part of the MDC Alliance that refused to recognise Mnangagwa’s electoral victory and on several occasions walked out on him in Parliament in protest over what they said was a stolen election.
But after crossing the floor, Komichi, who played a huge role over the “illegal” ascendency of Chamisa to succeed Tsvangirai, said he now recognised Mnangagwa as a legitimate leader.
“We received advice from a lot of people and organisations telling us that the card of Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy was no longer viable,” Komichi said.
“The matter of Mnangagwa’s legitimacy was decided by the Constitutional Court and we accept that ruling. We should respect court processes as a democratic and constitutional party.”
He added: “Democracy is a game of numbers, but now that I have pronounced myself, when he (Mnangagwa) walks in (Parliament), I will stand up for him and respect him. We have to respect decisions that were made by professionals.”
Komichi, who was also Chamisa’s chief election agent, also said Chamisa’s Constitutional Court challenge against Mnangagwa’s electoral victory lacked evidence.
“We did not have evidence on whether we had won the election or not,” Komichi said.
“What I can say for sure is that we did not verify the results. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) just announced the results and I stood up to say the results were fake; but after we lost in court, we have to respect the courts.”
In 2018, when Zec announced Mnangagwa as the winner of the presidential poll, Komichi stormed into the command centre, where the results were being announced and declared that they were fake, claiming he had evidence of Chamisa’s victory. In an affidavit presented in court, Komichi, under oath, said Chamisa had polled 2,6 million votes for the MDC Alliance party and, therefore, won the elections.
He also dismissed a political dialogue to tackle Zimbabwe’s economic crisis initiated by Mnangagwa, which Chamisa refused to join.
Komichi, who once declared undying loyalty to Chamisa, is now gunning for presidency of the MDC-T where he is set to square up with Khupe, Mwonzora and Elias Mudzuri.
Chamisa, in a separate interview, said he was well aware of the attempts by Mnangagwa to resolve the legitimacy issue by capturing structures of the MDC so that they confer to him what he desperately needed.
He said he would not be pressured into joining Polad and those who did so were “walking into hell and would lose their souls and sell out the future of the people of Zimbabwe”.
“I would lose my life, I would lose the life of Zimbabweans, because you are walking into a dungeon, you are walking into a den of lions, but also, you are walking into a bottomless pit. Nobody will walk into hell and be told you will lose nothing, you will lose your soul and you will burn,” Chamisa charged.
Meanwhile, the MDC Veterans Activists Association, (MDC VAA) who call themselves party custodians and veterans have thrown weight their behind Chamisa.
The MDC VAA which was formed in 2008 and has had a love-hate relationship with the party, however, pledged undying support for Chamisa. MDC VAA deputy secretary-general Takavafira Zhou said they acknowledged the leadership of Chamisa which came out of the 2019 congress.
WHO global update today: 84290 new cases, over 4 million confirmed cases & 285328 deaths.
I urge you all to continue to protect yourself and others from coronavirus, please wash your hands regularly and observe the social distancing guidance. We all need to play a part pic.twitter.com/I8jzqU68ja
— Dr Thokozani Khupe (@DrThoko_Khupe) May 13, 2020
By Own Correspondent| Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima has said allowing returning citizens with money to chose quarantine facilities of their choice was not an admission of failure.
Speaking during a post cabinet media briefing Tuesday evening, Mavima said the decision to open up to those with own money was in response to those who offered to pay for better accommodation.
“We have not lacked resources to look after them, in terms of food and other provisions that they need,” Mavima said.
“There are returnees who are saying we do not want to be in public facilities, we would rather pay and be in more comfortable facilities.
“You will realise cabinet has said if there are those people who want to pay, we should set up those private facilities.
“You have to understand that there are some citizens who could not pay for themselves so the state has to continue providing for them and we can assure the state has resources to look after them,” said Mavima.
Over 3 000 Zimbabweans have since returned into the country since the outbreak of the deadly pandemic in March this year.
By A Correspondent- A prominent Twitter personality using the Twitter handle @Just_VeeV says former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care Dr Agnes Mahomva was “demoted” after she opposed corrupt deals in the Ministry.
On Tuesday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa approved the appointment of Dr Mahomva to the newly created post of Chief Coordinator, National Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Office of the President and Cabinet.
According to @Just_VeeV, Dr Mahomva cancelled 3 tenders that had been illegally awarded to some officials.
Below is the full thread:Of @MoHCCZim chaos and Mahomva’s ‘demotion’
So word is that Mahomva cancelled 3 tenders that had been illegally awarded to some officials.
Company A had no capacity. Company B had no bank guarantee Company C had test kits that had not been approved.
Allegations are that company C procured the test kits just before gvt gave the directive to companies to test their employees before reopening their businesses. This also saw a spike in prices for the kits, from US$10 to $16. This made her more unpopular.
In addition, it is said the Minister didn’t want the PPEs being made by local universities to go through SAZ for quality testing and assurance, something the former Perm Sec didn’t agree with. So chucking her out was the only option.
It seems donors have confidence in Dr Mahomva. Most of the donations are going to gvt. Her departure could have made then consider 3rd party route something gvt could not risk. So they created the post to make sure she stays and finish off the #Covid19Zim work.
What happens after nobody knows. And oh hanzi the Minister used to take home 3 000 litres of fuel every month and Mahomva cut it down to 800. Hence their friction as well.
But some say Mahomva was no angel. And these are the allegations:
That she didn’t respect the Minister and ran a parallel ministry. She disregarded his directives and never sought approval especially in the past few months. This didn’t go down well with Dr Moyo.
Word is that most people in the Ministry did not like the idea of having Dr Moyo, who used to be their junior, elevated to being the Minister. And that he doesn’t enjoy support from Drs either who prefer working with Dr Mahomva instead.
Last night ZimEye investigated a self proclaimed millionaire, self boasting Julie Condliffe as she failed to refund a victim a paltry GBP 6,000.
There was a revelatory moment as Condliffe began to harrass another whistleblower via SMS during the program. This was as thousands tuned in to watch and listen.
For 12 years to date, ZimEye remains committed to investigative journalism that has seen victims of violence winning lumpsum amounts, millions of pounds being recovered and scores of victims winning court cases.
Condliffe told the victim who is reportedly suicidal, the only thing that is guaranteed in life is death. She said:
” I’ve also made some money in property; So the property game fluctuates up and down. There’s never any guarantee.
“I don’t think the any guarantees in life. I think the guarantees that we have are that we will die.
“That’s the one guarantee that I know.
There was another moment when it was revealed Condliffe has made a killing on a book she has authored titled, “Strategies For Investment Success.” She says the book a No.1 Best Seller.
“But in terms of the property market, it is going to continue to fluctuate and people will make money, people have made money before me, people will make….”
By A Correspondent- Members of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu sect led by Moses Gwasarira of Highfield, popularly known as Mose Gwanzura, yesterday received some bags of rice from President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The rice was part of a 10-tonne consignment donated by Mnangagwa to the church in the wake of the global pandemic COVID-19 crisis.
The members of the apostolic sect have been Zanu-PF’s campaign machine during elections.
Speaking to NewsDay after receiving the rice at his shrine, Gwasarira said the donation was a shot in the arm as it complemented their efforts to feed more than 20 000 members, the majority of whom survived on vending.
By Jane Mlambo| Government has succumbed to public pressure to establish private accomodation where those with own money can stay during the mandatory quarantine period.
Speaking during yesterday’s Post Cabinet Media Briefing, Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa said returnees now have a choice to stay in government provided facilities or private accommodation of their choice.
“Cabinet resolved that returnees who offer to pay for themselves be allowed to do so on condition that the facility is secure and subject to inspection by health and security officials and that reputable and established companies be contracted to supply Covid-19 materials,” said Mutsvangwa.
There was a commotion the last time returnees from the United Kingdom arrived in the country when government offered them accomodation at Belvedere Teachers College.
The UK returnees said the facility did not have running water and was not fit for human habitation, forcing the government to consider private accommodation.
By A Correspondent- A man drowned in a dam in Harare while evading security guards who wanted to arrest him for trespassing at a farm, police have said.
The incident took place on Monday at Harava Dam in Hatfield.
“An unidentified male adult drowned at Harava Dam, Hatfield, Harare on Monday, 11th May while evading arrest from security guards for trespassing at a local farm,” police say.
His accomplice managed to swim across the dam and escaped, the police statement added.
Police say that investigations into the case are continuing.
Meanwhile, police say that replenishing of supplies should be done at the nearest shops within a 5 km radius.
“… gathering for the purpose of consuming alcohol at shopping centres/private residents is illegal. The police will arrest all those who violate the law,” the police warned.
However, residents say oftentimes, the basic commodities they want to purchase such as mealie-meal and sugar may not be available at nearby shops
Botswana capital city Gaborone was put back on a lockdown after the country recorded a new Covid-19 case.
Presidential Covid-19 task team co-ordinator Kereng Masupu said the capital city was declared a high-risk area and put under lockdown with effect from Monday.
This was after a truck driver from South Africa tested positive for Covid-19. The truck driver entered Botswana through the Tlokweng border from South Africa on Saturday and his results came back positive on Sunday.
At the time he had made contact with several other people, including businesses such as Choppies at Fairground Mall, the Puma filling station at Fairground Mall and the CA Sale and Distribution at Commerce Park, which were closed immediately, with their employees advised not to go to work until further notice.
“Those that came into contact with the truck driver are being traced while the truck driver is admitted at Sir Ketumile Masire Hospital,” he said.
All businesses the truck driver visited along his delivery route have been identified, registers have been collected and contact tracing has started.
The incident has occurred barely two days after the easing of restrictions on movement within the country to open up the economy, and only those with essential permits will be allowed to travel, Masupu has said.
Botswana has now registered 24 Covid-19 cases, with one death and 12 recoveries.
The country is under a state of emergency for six months in an attempt to cut the spread of Covid-19. Movement of people is restricted and only essential cargo is allowed through the country’s port of entry.
A footballer for FC Charles, a team from Glendale in Mashonaland Central province, reportedly died in mysterious circumstances after he slept with a sex worker and failed to pay for the services rendered, raising fears of witchcraft, while others maintain it was just a coincidence.
Crispen Magwaza (21) is said to have been bewitched by a sex worker, whom he failed to pay for her services.
NewsDay visited the Magwaza family, where a family spokesperson, Henry Magwaza confirmed the case.
“My boy fell sick. As the situation worsened, he divulged to me that he had slept with a certain lady of the night, (name supplied), but left without paying the service fee of US$10,” he narrated.
“I then took him to the woman’s place who told us that if he had not come with the money, something terrible would have happened to him.”
He added: “She told us to put the money on the floor so that the spirits could receive it directly and reverse the boy’s illness.
“She removed a scary doll and uttered a few words and my boy felt better.
“However, two days later, the situation worsened. We took him back but the lady said she could not do anything before he died.”
According to the family, Crispen developed urinary problems, urinating up to 20 litres of urine per day for five days before he passed on.
The sex worker is said to be in hiding after being threatened being threatened by the deceased’s friends.
This is not the first time bizarre things have happened in Glendale.
Sometime last year, Glendale hit headlines after an artisanal miner lost his manhood to a sex worker after failing to pay for services.
By A Correspondent- Gwanda State University (GSU) has been accused of ignoring the COVID-19 pandemic, by opening the institution during a lockdown to stop the spread of the pandemic.
In addition, the university’s lecturers, 16 of them, are said to be cramped up in a small room, in oblivion of social distancing rules.
“About 8 Teaching Assistants occupy a foyer with 2 tables. The Computer Lab, which has 3 functional computers is used by about 7 to 8 lecturers who want faster connectivity. Staff in the Works Department shares a poorly ventilated cubicle at an average of 10 in one room,” the source had said.
“A public office originally meant for chairpersons at the admin block is used by six to eight members,” a source at the institution said.
“The university must have made efforts to address the issue of office space for employees before making this wild and wayward decision.
“The university authorities should have waited for the Head of State to announce the official government position regarding reopening of Universities.”.
GSU spokesperson, Walter Ndlovu confirmed that all staff members were directed to report for work on May 4.
He said the motive behind was to enable easier and more effective supervision and coordination of efforts in the execution of the development of online teaching materials and modalities.
“Lecturers were also to receive some training on online teaching as well as online handling of assignments and examinations.
“We also intended to make thorough preparations for the possible return of students, to coordinate and facilitate the involvement and participation of our members of staff who are serving on various provincial and national committees working on COVID 19 activities,” Ndlovu said.
“It was meant to also prepare to receive returnees from neighbouring countries and beyond given that the university was identified as one of the quarantine sites in the Insiza District.”
He said unlike other universities, GSU was able to accommodate its staff on its campus, as they had a small staff complement.
“Issues of social distancing are therefore easy to observe,” Ndlovu said.
“Staff responded to the call to report for work overwhelmingly and work on the aforementioned tasks and others are proceeding well.”
A heath reporter Vivian Mugarisi has dropped a bombshell on yesterday’s appointment of Dr Agnes Mahomva to a new position of Chief Coordinator On COVID-19 Response in the Office of the President and Cabinet, saying it was a way to get rid of her after she reportedly cancelled three tenders illegally awarded to some companies connected to some top officials in the ministry of health.
Posting on Twitter, Mugarisi under the handle @Just_Veev said Mahomva could not be fired due to her strong connection with donors who were donating resources to government through her, hence the decision to give her a ceremonial post under the watchful eye of the President’s office.
Below is the thread posted by @Just_Veev early morning today…
Of @MoHCCZim chaos and Mahomva’s ‘demotion’ So word is that Mahomva cancelled 3 tenders that had been illegally awarded to some officials. Company A had no capacity. Company B had no bank guarantee Company C had test kits that had not been approved. Thread…
Allegations are that company C procured the test kits just before gvt gave the directive to companies to test their employees before reopening their businesses. This also saw a spike in prices for the kits, from US$10 to $16. This made her more unpopular.
In addition, it is said the Minister didn’t want the PPEs being made by local universities to go through SAZ for quality testing and assuarance, something the former Perm Sec didn’t agree with. So chucking her out was only option, but the donors…….
It seems donors have confidence in Dr Mahomva. Most of the donations are going to gvt. Her departure could have made then consider 3rd party route something gvt could not risk. So tbey created the post to make sure she stays and finish off the #Covid19Zim work…..
What happens after nobody knows. And oh hanzi the Minister used to take home 3 000 litres of fuel every month and Mahomva cut it down to 800. Hence their friction as well. But some say Mahomva was no angel. And this are the allegations……
That she didn’t respect the Minister and ran a parallel ministry. She disregarded his directives and never sought approval especially in the past few months. This didn’t go down well with Dr Moyo.
Word is that most people in the Ministry did not like the idea of having Dr Moyo, who used to be their junior, elevated to being the Minister. And that he doesn’t enjoy support from Drs either who prefer working with Dr Mahomva instead. But whatever the case is……pane nyaya.
By A Correspondent- Comic Pastor whose real name is Prosper Ngomashi has released another skit where he is apologising on behalf of mahwindi to government, the police and the general commuting public.
The comedian who is well known for his hilarious comedy skits says the Lockdown has affected the livelihoods of mahwindi pleading for it to end.
By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating 32 ZIFA councillors for receiving $8,000 bribery money in a 2018 election at the football organisation.
The bribes were apparently paid by one of the candidates for the Zifa executive committee post.
A police source told the state media:
“Had it not been the lockdown due to Covid-19 we could have covered a lot of ground. These councillors are spread all over.
Some are provincial chairmen, others regional chairmen and members of those leagues. Its a shame and from our preliminary investigations those elections were just a farce.
One of the candidates, we are told was paying in cash which makes it difficult to prove but one councillor is a willing witness to that.
We have also recorded statements from a former executive committee member who said procedurally, the association takes care of the candidates’ meals, accommodation and so called incidentials, so we shall be keen to get clarity on why this individual used his own money.
State Media|THIRTY conventional buses were inspected and 24 certified fit by the Central Mechanical and Equipment Department (CMED) in Harare yesterday following the recent invitation by Government for private commuter omnibus operators to join the Zupco franchise if they want to operate during the lockdown period and beyond.
The exercise is also being conducted in some parts of the country.
Government is urging private operators to bring their buses and drivers.
The buses should have certificates of fitness from the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), passenger insurance and vehicle insurance, while drivers should have a valid Class 2 driver’s licence, a defensive driving certificate and a medical certificate.
Those interested in joining the Zupco franchise should take their vehicles for vetting at the nearest depot.
CMED managing director Mr Davison Mhaka confirmed the development, saying six buses failed the test.
The six have since been taken for repairs and will be inspected again.
Today, CMED will be inspecting kombis.
“We are also testing drivers through our driving school Easy Go, checking on their driver’s licences, defensive driving certificates and medical certificates,” he said.
Mr Mhaka said they wanted drivers who comply with traffic rules and regulations.
“We are also going to set up a tollfree number where people will phone through and report the behaviour of drivers. The numbers will be on these buses and all those who misbehave will be withdrawn,” he said.
Last week, Zupco said it was bringing its 500 franchised kombis back into operation.
Since all formal sector businesses were allowed to reopen last Monday after lockdown movement restrictions were relaxed, Zupco has been battling to move commuters to and from work, with people having to wait for several hours forcing some to breach safety and lockdown rules by riding on trucks.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s advisor Dr Shingi Munyeza says the current system that is running the current is on the path of self-destruction.
In a lengthy interview with Heart n Soul’s Blessed Mhlanga on Tuesday, Munyeza said the country needs young people with innovation who must take ownership of Zimbabwe and bring down the current system.
He said young people must not desire to leave the country, but desire to change the way the country is being run.
“When you have no food, you have no water, when your kids can’t go to school when there is disease on your doorstep and you don’t have money it’s a perfect storm, so it dismantles itself because the leadership that brought it there is not capable of actually taking it out of there.
“It can’t, because, if it was able, we wouldn’t be where we are, the systems that took it to where were are going or where we are about to plunge into right now is incapable of taking us out of it so we need new blood, new wineskins and that’s why I am calling for the young people to start climbing in and make sure that they take their place,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s cash strapped government has given a green light to returning residents wishing to finance their stay at quarantine facilities of their choice during the mandatory quarantine period.
The latest u-turn by the government comes barely a month after it slashed the mandatory quarantine period by one half, citing that the country does not have resources to follow the two-week period recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Speaking at Tuesday’s Post Cabinet Media Briefing, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said that returning residents will no longer be forced into government-designated Covid-19 isolation centers they are not comfortable with for as long as they have the financial muscle to book into facilities of their choice.
‘Cabinet resolved that returnees who offer to pay for themselves be allowed to do so on condition that the facility is secure and subject to inspection by health and security officials and that reputable and established companies be contracted to supply Covid-19 materials,’ said Mutsvangwa.
Information secretary Nick Mangwana also confirmed the development on social media.
Writing on his Twitter account Mangwana said,
‘The returnees wishing to pay for their own accommodation and upkeep will now be allowed to do so on condition the place is secure and is subject to inspection by both health and security officials.’ said Mangwana.
The returnees wishing to pay for their own accommodation and upkeep will now be allowed to do so on condition the place is secure and is subject to inspection by both health and security officials
This also follows after the government had a standoff with residents who returned home from the United kingdom over poor living and sanitary conditions at one of the designated quarantine centres.
The returnees who were camped at Belvedere Teacher’s college torched a social media storm after it emerged that they were resisting mandatory quarantine at the facility, whilst demanding to be accommodated in a hotel.
By A Correspondent- Police in Covid-19 protective gear today removed the body of a man who was found dead at a bus stop along Inyathi Road some few metres away from Chiredzi General Hospital.
The man is said to have died under mysterious circumstances after being seen holding a packet of tablets yesterday evening.
When contacted for comment, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Chief Inspector Charity Mazula said she had not received the report.
Some sources said the man could have failed to get help at the hospital and was turned away for unclear reasons.
This is a developing story. Refresh this page for latest updates.
Botswana capital city Gaborone was put back on a lockdown after the country recorded a new Covid-19 case.
Presidential Covid-19 task team co-ordinator Kereng Masupu said the capital city was declared a high-risk area and put under lockdown with effect from Monday.
This was after a truck driver from South Africa tested positive for Covid-19. The truck driver entered Botswana through the Tlokweng border from South Africa on Saturday and his results came back positive on Sunday.
At the time he had made contact with several other people, including businesses such as Choppies at Fairground Mall, the Puma filling station at Fairground Mall and the CA Sale and Distribution at Commerce Park, which were closed immediately, with their employees advised not to go to work until further notice.
“Those that came into contact with the truck driver are being traced while the truck driver is admitted at Sir Ketumile Masire Hospital,” he said.
All businesses the truck driver visited along his delivery route have been identified, registers have been collected and contact tracing has started.
The incident has occurred barely two days after the easing of restrictions on movement within the country to open up the economy, and only those with essential permits will be allowed to travel, Masupu has said.
Botswana has now registered 24 Covid-19 cases, with one death and 12 recoveries.
The country is under a state of emergency for six months in an attempt to cut the spread of Covid-19. Movement of people is restricted and only essential cargo is allowed through the country’s port of entry.
A 33-year-old Harare woman, believed to be linked to armed robbers, was arrested for hiding a gun in a maize field at her residence in Hatfield acting on instructions from her husband, who is at Harare Remand Prison.
File picture of Harare Magistrates Court
Hazvinei Kashanga appeared at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and was not asked to plead to the charges when she appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Richard Ramaboa, who remanded her to June 23 for routine remand.
The State led by Terence Mashaire had it that on May 5, 2020 detectives from CID Homicide received information that Kashanga had dug and hid firearms at No.77 Seke Road, Hatfield.
Acting on a tip-off, police from ZRP Hatfield teamed up with detectives from CID and proceeded to Kashanga’s house.
Upon interviewing her, Kashanga revealed that she received instructions from another suspected armed robber’s wife to hide the guns in the maize field.
The armed robber, who was only identified as Emmanuel was arrested and appeared in court where he was jointly charged with two other suspects also identified on State papers as Choms and Albert.
The three are in remand prison pending trial.
Upon searching her, Kashanga was found in possession of ammunition in her bedroom.
She then allegedly led police to the maize field where a double barrel short gun and four sets of 12 bore live rounds were recovered.
Kashanga was arrested and is expected to return to court on June 23 for her routine remand.
Own Correspondent|Norton Member of Parliament Temba Mliswa has reported that two new Coronavirus cases have been detected at a Chinese firm in Norton, a town in the outskirts of Harare.
Said Mliswa, “I’ve just received notice that 2 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been detected at the Chinese tile factory, Sunny Yi Feng. This is a blow as I’ve always been concerned about this site and my fears appear confirmed. All the staff there will now undergo mandatory testing and isolation.”
Mliswa and the Chinese firm have previous running battles.
Lusaka Times|Zambian President EDGAR LUNGU has opened the Victoria falls to the public which was closed due to the outbreak of Covid 19 pandemic.
President LUNGU says he wants key sectors of the economy running whilst observing the new normal of following Covid 19 health guidelines.
The President also said government will give incentives to sectors such as tourism in order to help it grow and sustain the available jobs.
He said the minister of finance will be briefed on which reliefs to give to the tourism sector.
President LUNGU also toured some hotels in Livingstone in order to appreciated the challenges faced by the sector.
The head of state was briefed that hotels in Livingstone were incurring losses because there are no tourists to book rooms and other facilities.
Later the head of state had his lunch at Chrisma Hotel restaurant where social-distancing was observed.
President LUNGU said he decided to have lunch at a restaurant in oder to show his support to the hospitality industry which has been hardly hit by the pandemic.
And tourism minister Ronald Chitotela says the President’s decision to open up the sector will help save many jobs.
Mr Chitotela assured President Lungu that the sector will adhere to the new normal.
Meanwhile Livingstone tourism Council representative Rodney Sikumba says the council is grateful to government for responding to their request of opening up the tourism sector.
A body is moved from a refrigeration truck serving as a temporary morgue to a vehicle at the Brooklyn Hospital Center, in the Borough of Brooklyn in New York on April 8, 2020.
The United States recorded 1,894 coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 82,246, according to the real-time tally by Johns Hopkins University at 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday).
The figure was a sharp rise after daily tolls fell below 1,000 on Sunday and Monday.
The country — hardest hit by the pandemic in terms of the number of fatalities — has now confirmed a total of 1,367,927 cases, the Baltimore-based school reported.
GLOBAL TOLL PASSES 290,000
The coronavirus pandemic has now claimed more than 290,000 lives worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official sources at 2200 GMT on Tuesday.
In total, 290,477 deaths have been registered, with Europe accounting for 159,205 of them. The United States is the worst-affected country, followed by Britain (32,692), Italy (30,911), France (26,991) and Spain (26,920).
EXPERT WARNING
France began reopening schools on Tuesday and Russia and India started getting back to work as the top US infectious disease expert warned that relaxing coronavirus lockdowns too quickly could have serious consequences.
Government immunologist Anthony Fauci’s stark words fed concerns that even a cautious exit from the unprecedented global economic shutdown could trigger another outbreak of the disease which has killed more than 290,000 people around the world according to an AFP toll.
In France, primary and nursery schools reopened with teachers wearing face masks and children’s chairs separated to avoid spreading the virus.
Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer hailed the reopening of schools, which will be rolled out gradually throughout the country and include Paris schools on Thursday.
Russia began easing lockdown rules even as infections surged past 232,000 — now the second most confirmed cases in the world after the United States.
Russia hit the dire landmark Tuesday after a week of reporting more than 10,000 daily infections and as it was confirmed that President Vladimir Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, tested positive for the virus.
US Vice President Mike Pence’s press secretary tested positive last week and the White House said Tuesday that Pence has decided to “keep his distance” from President Donald Trump for a few days.
In testimony to US lawmakers, Fauci admitted the true number killed by the epidemic in the US is likely higher than the official toll of over 82,000 — the world’s highest.
And despite Trump’s evident desire to restart the economy ahead of the November election, Fauci warned that a 14-day decrease in cases was a vital first step to exiting lockdowns safely.
“If a community or a state or region doesn’t go by those guidelines and reopens… the consequences could be really serious,” Fauci said.
“There is a real risk that you will trigger an outbreak that you may not be able to control,” he added, warning that would not only cost lives, “but could even set you back on the road to trying to get economic recovery.”
On Tuesday, the US registered 1,894 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours.
FULL ACCOUNTING
In the US House of Representatives, Democrats unveiled a $3 trillion virus response package, the largest yet, to fund efforts to fight the pandemic and provide emergency payments to millions of American households.
But the measure faced immediate opposition in the Republican-held Senate, where leaders have said a new round of emergency funding is not yet needed.
Republican senators proposed legislation meanwhile that would empower Trump to slap sanctions on China if it does not give a “full accounting” for the coronavirus outbreak, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December.
“The Chinese Communist Party must be held accountable for the detrimental role they played in this pandemic,” said Senator Jim Inhofe. “Their outright deception of the origin and spread of the virus cost the world valuable time and lives as it began to spread.”
In Russia, some parts of the country hummed back to life Tuesday — the end of a “non-working” period.
For those braving public transport, masks and gloves were a must in line with new anti-virus rules.
“It’s a necessary measure,” said 25-year-old Tatiana Khan, speaking on a half-empty bus in Moscow.
“If everyone had worn masks from the start, observed the precautions, I think we wouldn’t have had such a spread of the epidemic,” she added from behind a surgical mask.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $270 billion economic stimulus as the Asian giant’s economy lumbers back to life.
Its giant railway network restarted in defiance of a recent surge in infections, with 3,600 recorded on Monday, just below Sunday’s record tally.
The country of 1.3 billion imposed a strict shutdown in late March, which Modi’s government has credited with keeping cases to a modest 70,000, with around 2,300 deaths.
Iran, meanwhile, said it would reopen mosques for three nights this week, after struggling to contain the outbreak that has killed more than 6,700 people there.
TEST ALL IN WUHAN
South Korea, credited with one of the world’s more successful anti-virus campaigns, said it was using mobile phone data to track Seoul nightclub visitors after a cluster of new cases.
The outbreak — which forced a delay in reopening schools — hit gay venues and potential carriers may fear coming forward because of the stigma surrounding homosexuality.
And in Britain, which has Europe’s most confirmed fatal cases, the Office of National Statistics said reports from care homes for the elderly suggest a government tally of 32,692 deaths underestimates the full toll.
In China, state media reported that Wuhan plans to conduct virus tests on the entire 11 million population after new cases emerged for the first time in weeks in the city where the outbreak began.
Scientists believe the virus jumped from bats to humans in a Wuhan market but there have been unproven claims — including from Trump — that the disease somehow escaped from a Chinese lab.
Economic and social lockdowns have cut a swathe through the global economy and, while many areas are now cautiously moving back to work, world markets are treading cautiously amid fears of a second wave.
The Nasdaq’s six-day winning streak ended on Tuesday as US stocks pulled back after Fauci’s warnings about reopening the economy too quickly.
One popular US attraction that will remain dark is Broadway.
The Broadway trade association announced Tuesday that New York’s beloved theatres will not reopen until at least early September.
New York remains the US epicentre, with COVID-19 continuing to kill more than 150 people a day in the state.
As world leaders begin their efforts to remove the lockout, the World Health Organization has outlined 6 principles to be considered before taking this step.
WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has given recommendations on measures and when to abolish the closure law that aims to curb the spread of cholera.
Dr. Adhanom said the first and most important step before removing the lockout, is to ensure the safety of the community and to have a thorough understanding of the nature of the disease.
1. Limit the spread of the disease
Dr. Ghebreyesus said world leaders must make sure they have overcome the spread of the disease before removing the lockout law altogether.
2. Improved health system
The second requirement, according to WHO Director, is to ensure the quality of the health care system, the testing, and the protection of all infected persons.
3. Reduce the risk of outbreaks
Leaders must ensure that the risk of outbreaks is minimized in specialized areas such as health centers and nursing homes.
4. Protective measures at public places
International leaders are advised to ensure adequate provision of protection in public places, such as schools, workplaces, places of worship, and other places where it is necessary and required by people to visit.
5. Monitor the risk of disease while importing goods
International leaders must also make sure that the risks of disease are kept on import
6. Educate the community
Finally, world leaders must ensure that their communities are well-informed about the peroneal disease and all its other characteristics. They should also adopt new defensive behaviors.
Gwanda State University (GSU) has been accused of ignoring the COVID-19 pandemic, by opening the institution during a lockdown to stop the spread of the pandemic.
In addition, the university’s lecturers, 16 of them, are said to be cramped up in a small room, in oblivion of social distancing rules.
“About 8 Teaching Assistants occupy a foyer with 2 tables. The Computer Lab, which has 3 functional computers is used by about 7 to 8 lecturers who want faster connectivity. Staff in the Works Department shares a poorly ventilated cubicle at an average of 10 in one room,” the source had said.
“A public office originally meant for chairpersons at the admin block is used by six to eight members,” a source at the institution said.
“The university must have made efforts to address the issue of office space for employees before making this wild and wayward decision.
“The university authorities should have waited for the Head of State to announce the official government position regarding reopening of Universities.”.
GSU spokesperson, Walter Ndlovu confirmed that all staff members were directed to report for work on May 4.
He said the motive behind was to enable easier and more effective supervision and coordination of efforts in the execution of the development of online teaching materials and modalities.
“Lecturers were also to receive some training on online teaching as well as online handling of assignments and examinations.
“We also intended to make thorough preparations for the possible return of students, to coordinate and facilitate the involvement and participation of our members of staff who are serving on various provincial and national committees working on COVID 19 activities,” Ndlovu said.
“It was meant to also prepare to receive returnees from neighbouring countries and beyond given that the university was identified as one of the quarantine sites in the Insiza District.”
He said unlike other universities, GSU was able to accommodate its staff on its campus, as they had a small staff complement.
“Issues of social distancing are therefore easy to observe,” Ndlovu said.
“Staff responded to the call to report for work overwhelmingly and work on the aforementioned tasks and others are proceeding well.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Ministry Of Health and Child Care permanent secretary Dr Agnes Mahomva to take over the running of the country’s Coronavirus programming something which ordinarily would be expected to be done by the Minister of Health Dr Obadiah Moyo himself.
Throughout the world, Ministers of Health are in the forefront working with the President in running the Coronavirus programme but only in Zimbabwe has the President decided to eliminate his Minister.
Below we publish the full statement by the President’s office appointing Mahomva to take over from her boss.
Contents of the statement clearly show that the President has lost confidence in his Minister and Dr Mahomva may soon be the next Health and Child Care Minister.
PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE PRESIDENT AND CABINET DR M J M SIBANDA ON THE APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF COORDINATOR, NATIONAL RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
His Excellency the President has, in terms of Section 203 (1) (a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) Act 2013, approved the appointment of Dr Agnes Mahomva to the newly created post of Chief Coordinator, National Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Office of the President and Cabinet.
The post has been created after due consideration of the work of the Ad-hoc Inter-Ministerial Task Force on COVID -19, which has indicated the need for an evidence-based, and coordinated division of labour between and among Government agencies and other significant entities, as the country acts to prevent, manage and contain cases of infection and illness relating to the virus.
Prior to her appointment, Dr Mahomva held the post of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, and brings to the new post her extensive knowledge and experience both from her work in Government and from her previous assignments in country, regional and global health organizations. As the Government’s principal technical spokesperson on efforts to combat the COVID-19 threat, Dr Mahomva has been on the frontline in defining Government strategy and in providing guidance to the public on behavioral adjustments needed to protect the populace against the spread of the pandemic, as well as on necessary health protocols that must be followed when dealing with cases, both suspected and established, of infection.
Dr Mahomva’s leadership is critical in coordinating the country’s expertise in medical, epidemiological and related research and practices, and in intensifying activities in the area of public health at a time when the country is contending with a formidable health threat. She will also take responsibility for ensuring synergies in activities relating to the logistical, resource mobilization, materials production, and distribution, protective services and monitoring functions in the fight against COVID-1 9.
Dr Mahomva’s appointment is with immediate effect.
An announcement on the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care will be made in due course.
Zimbabwe's former finance minister and opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) politician Tendai Biti is greeted by party leader Nelson Chamisa as he leaves court after being convicted and fined under the country's electoral act in Harare, Zimbabwe, February 18, 2019.
By The Radical Zimbabwean|The lack of a sustainable economic model for the MDC is what has caused this current wave of back stabbings and skulduggery in the party. By ‘sustainable economic model’ one is referring to the financial arrangements of a political party which ensure that it has enough money and resources to be competitive.
The trouble in Zimbabwe is that the money which opposition political parties are reliant on is being apportioned by the Zanu regime. Opposition parties fighting a fascist regime shouldn’t rely on the oppressor’s generosity and whim. Imagine Zanu and Zapu guerilla operations relying on the money coming from having their MPs in the Rhodesian parliament – it’s unworkable. Will get to this later.
As much as I hate to say this, if those two (that man and that woman) get their hands-on the $7m dollars for opposition parties, they are going to have the power to coax other MDC MPs and their activists on the ground into joining their faction. They may not even have to actively go out and bribe people, seating MPs themselves will volunteer themselves to them. See, MDC MPs especially those who are not wealthy rely so much on the wages they get from being in that farcical parliament, they will likely volunteer their allegiance to that man and woman because those two will ensure they still get their hands on those salaries, for a while. Zanu could even be mischievous enough to incorporate this Muzorewa faction into a farcical government of national unity where that lot will be in charge of things like primary education and parliamentary hygiene. One is not against MDC MPs, buy one recognizes that their position in military kleptocracy has a serious defect. Whether they notice this or not, once a person becomes an MP they will be part of the political class in Zimbabwe (albeit a second tier) that enjoys a cushy life, nice houses, nice cars all financed by public taxes. As such, their political motivations and experiences of the problems in Zimbabwe in most cases will be different from the people they are supposed to be representing. For example, the first thing a seating MP would be passionate about is their parliamentary salary and the benefits they enjoy in their constituency. Those are the things they will defend gallantly. Once those things are secured, they will then assess other people’s problems and if those other problems require solutions which put their MP privileges at risk, they are likely going to be against those and propose superficial alternatives. Majority of the public want the problems in the country to go and for that to happen, every state structure in the country needs to be overturned and recreated to serve the people and that includes Parliament, and that includes sending all Zanu government officials and their stooges in the state to prison for a long time or forever.
Indeed, there are some radical MDC MPs who warm the cockles of one’s heart when they say it as it is, when they call for radical political change. But they are in the minority. All MDC MPs should be radical…so radical that they should donate half their salaries to the party’s humanitarian wing…so radical that they should be leading demos for regime change every week…so radical that they should use the parliament to mock the regime…so radical that they should eventually withdraw from parliament due to the fact that it has zero influence on government policy or accountability on the issues which matter…so radical that they should actually do things which can bring political change in Zimbabwe.
Now there is an argument that if the MDC do not send MPs into those parliaments, Zanu will run riot and puts through legislation that ruins the country. But hang on, Zanu is already ruining the country and that is because the country is a military kleptocracy where every state sector, Reserve Bank and means of production which matter are controlled by them. Indeed the courts from time to time serve justice on small matters, but on the substantive issue about who rules Zimbabwe the judge presiding might as well be wearing a Zanu cap and matching underwear because they will favour the incumbent.
Zimbabwean parliaments are actually serving Zanu’s interests by giving the world a false impression that Zimbabwe has democratic structures when it does not.
Without a sustainable economic model, the MDC will continue to be susceptible to bribery from Zanu via its MPs. Without a sustainable economic model, the MDC will continue to be a begging party at the mercy of Zanu. A sustainable economic model can be achieved by running the party like a proper business legally and clandestinely. In the past, one has written extensively about the three essential layers for the MDC – business capital, intellectual capital and activism.
What’s the way forward It’s difficult to develop a sustainable economic model especially in a country like Zimbabwe, Zanu will destroy any successful capital venture that finances the MDC. This is why this economic model needs to be operational in the diaspora. The MDC in Zimbabwe needs to sit down with the diaspora and come up with ideas. The MDC has a trump card which is Nelson Chamisa who is a charismatic superstar orator and charming man. He will be key to aggressive diaspora crowd funding which is one of the revenue streams needed for this thing. In the next publication, one will explore some of the avenues. In the short term, one understands that the MDC has no alternative but to rely on that state funding. Which means these factional wars will continue to happen, but whoever gets their hands on that $7m will have the upper hand because of the desperate maxim of our MPs.
State Media|Companies need to push ahead fast with plans to reopen, using exemptions already granted to lockdown regulations, but at the same time must follow the rules on masks, sanitising and social distancing so that workers and customers remain safe against Covid-19 infection, the Government has stressed.
The lockdown rules have been relaxed in steps to allow sectors to resume business and avoid an economic disaster for Zimbabwe, while at the same time simple public health rules have been put in place to maintain the gains from the lockdown and keep everyone safe.
Briefing journalists last night after a Cabinet meeting, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, said Government wanted companies to reopen, but the firms were experiencing difficulties in accessing rapid results test kits for their employees, in compliance with the requirements. So extra time had been given for tests.
But even with the extra time given to find kits or arrange testing, companies must adhere to the rest of the conditions such as hand sanitisation upon entry to workplaces, the wearing of face masks and enforcement of social distancing at their premises.
The Government is also expecting the main business sectors to fill requirements for equipment and materials. Established and reputable companies will be contracted to provide equipment and materials for fighting and treating Covid-19 with briefcase companies seeking to cash in on the pandemic without offering value being “sifted out”.
Minister Mutsvangwa said Government had noted with concern the sharp rise in briefcase firms seeking to participate in tender processes for the supply of Covid-19 materials.
“Government will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that such unscrupulous business elements are sifted out,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
Yesterday, Cabinet noted that the release of $27,5 million by Treasury to the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) and District Development Fund (DDF) for countrywide drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes, establishment of quarantine centres for returning residents and setting up of a 24-hour Covid-19 Command centres headed by the Civil Protection Unit, had contributed to the containment of the pandemic.
Responding to questions on Government’s ability to take care of those returning from other countries, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Professor Paul Mavima, said there were enough resources and the ministry had been allocated $125 million since the start of the lockdown.
“We may have some logistical problems here and there, especially this weekend due to the large influx of people at Beitbridge Border Post. We can assure the nation that the resources to look after these returnees are available,” said Prof Mavima.
“There is another element to the returnees; there are returnees who say ‘we do not want to be in public facilities, we would rather pay and be in more comfortable facilities’.
“And if you look at this matrix, you will realise that Cabinet is saying, yes, if there are those people who want to pay for themselves, we should set up those private facilities. But they will have to be inspected by health authorities and be approved before taking in any returnees, so that has been granted.”
Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Nick Mangwana, told The Herald last night that if some returnees wanted private facilities as quarantine centres and were willing to pay, Government would assess the facilities ranging from hotels to lodges.
“Once everything has been put in place, then those designated places will be availed to those who can afford and are willing to pay. Security is still an issue to ensure that all the institutional infrastructure for a mandatory quarantine are in place regardless of who is paying.
“It means that the employees of these places have to be protected from potential infection. It also means that there should be enough security to prevent people from absconding,” said Mr Mangwana.
Meanwhile, Prof Mavima said the disbursement of $300, increased from the originally proposed $200, to vulnerable families under the cash transfer programme, had been delayed because Cabinet later directed that the list be reconsidered to ensure that those getting the money were genuinely vulnerable, meeting the envisaged criteria for beneficiaries.
Already, 90 000 beneficiaries have been approved and Government will start paying them soon.
Turning to police check points, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said they were meant to ensure compliance with lockdown regulations such as wearing facemasks.
He explained that even drivers alone in a vehicle still had to wear a face mask under the law.
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is too busy working towards achieving Vision 2030 to be meddling in the internal politics of opposition parties, Zanu-PF national political commissar Victor Matemadanda has said.
Last month, the Supreme Court made an extremely weird ruling that can only be politically motivated when it ruled that Nelson Chamisa is not the legitimate MDC leader in terms of the party’s constitution and subsequently ordered the convening of an extra-ordinary congress within three months to elect a new president.
The ruling by Supreme Court judge Justice Bharat Patel, sitting with Justices Paddington Garwe and Antonia Guvava, followed an appeal by MDC Alliance leaders Messrs Chamisa and Morgan Komichi challenging last year’s ruling by Harare High Court judge Justice Edith Mushore declaring that Mr Chamisa illegitimately acted as the party leader.
Justice Mushore also nullified the appointments of Mr Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri as deputy presidents of the MDC, saying they were unconstitutional. The dismissal of the appeal automatically reinstated Dr Khupe as the legitimate leader of the MDC, forcing the party to go back and start from February 15, 2018. Last week, Dr Khupe recalled Mr Prosper Mutseyami who is also Dangamvura-Chikanga legislator, Kuwadzana legislator Mr Charlton Hwende, Ms Thabitha Khumalo (proportional representation) and Senator Lilian Timveous from Parliament.
The MDC-Alliance reacted by threatening to pull out all their members from Parliament while alleging the involvement of the State in the recall of the MPs.
In a recorded video by the party’s information department, Matemadanda said the party and government was also looking at the impact of Covid-19 on Zimbabweans and how they can be assisted.
“We are not going to listen to side shows, these small boys games that are going on especially in the MDC where someone wants to involve the President of Zimbabwe for problems that they have created for disobeying the constitution they wrote for themselves and want to bring President Mnangagwa into that,” said Matemadanda.
Matemadanda said instead of dragging the name of the President and Zanu-PF into their chaos, they must sit down and try to settle their problems.
He said MDC is duty bound to follow their constitution and when they err should not blame people who were not part of it.
LOCAL Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo has said Councillor Somveli Dlamini remains the legitimate mayor for Victoria Falls as he can only be removed from office through a general election or a tribunal set by Government.
Minister Moyo wrote to the municipality yesterday nullifying an election conducted by 10 councillors which replaced Clr Dlamini with ward 5 Clr Richard Mguni last Thursday.
This puts to rest a tussle for power between Clr Dlamini and Clr Mguni which had seen the former disowning a resignation letter he purportedly wrote in March, as he claimed he remains the legitimate mayor for the town.
Minister Moyo confirmed writing to the municipality yesterday.
“He was not fired from being mayor. He can only be fired or removed in terms of the Constitution or if there is a tribunal set of which I haven’t put any. What it means is that since he has been reinstated, he returns to the office of the Mayor,” said Minister Moyo.
The letter the Minister wrote reads in part: “It’s been brought to my attention that on May 7, 2020 at a meeting of Victoria Falls Municipality an election was held for the position of mayor of the town of Victoria Falls. Please note that in terms of Section 48 and 103 of the Urban Councils Act, a mayor is elected to the office after a general election and holds office until an election or until a successor is appointed. The Constitution in Section 278 provides for the due processes for the removal of a mayor or councillor and following my evenly referenced letter dated 5 May 2020, Clr Somveli Dlamini was reinstated as a councillor. As such, there is no provision for an election of a new mayor as Clr Dlamini regains his post until the end of his term of office.
“In terms of Section 316, I hereby order that the election of a new mayor of Victoria Falls is nullified and Clr Dlamini continues in the office of mayor.”
Minister Moyo reinstated Clr Dlamini as a councillor for Ward 9 last Thursday, on the basis of a letter written to him by Mr Douglas Mwonzora, who is secretary general of the MDC-T, as per the recent Supreme Court ruling which recognised Dr Thokozani Khupe as the party leader.
The local authority’s other 10 councillors had quickly replaced him with Clr Mguni in the mayor’s office saying he comes back as an ordinary councillor because he resigned.
Clr Dlamini, who had been in the political doldrums since February 24 when the MDC-Alliance leadership expelled him on allegations of violating party rules and disrespecting protocol, said he never resigned.
He dismissed last week’s election as null and void, saying the meeting was bogus.
Clr Dlamini has accused the MDC-Alliance of forcing him to sign the alleged resignation letter, an assertion dismissed by the party’s secretary Mr Charlton Hwende. The 10 councillors yesterday convened an urgent closed-door meeting before Minister Moyo’s letter to the council, where they resolved to rally behind Clr Mguni.
Clr Dlamini said he was not invited and only got to know about the meeting when he visited the municipal offices when the meeting was underway. Ward 1 Clr Margaret Varley, who is MDC-Alliance chief whip in council, called the meeting.
The nullification of Clr Mguni’s election means that he leaves before being sworn in and only five days after his election.
Clr Mguni said he had nothing against Clr Dlamini.
Town Clerk Mr Ronnie Dube said the municipality will abide by Government directive.
THIEVES broke into Ekusileni Medical Centre in Bulawayo and stole donated equipment which includes a compressor and borehole components.
The value of the stolen equipment could not be immediately established last night.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the theft, saying investigations were underway.
“We are investigating a theft case in which unknown suspects cut off a fence at Ekusileni Medical Centre this morning (yesterday) at around 4AM to access the premises. They stole a compressor and a water pump, which was connected to a JoJo tank and we are yet to ascertain the value of the stolen equipment,” he said.
Insp Ncube said no arrests have been made so far.
“As police, we are urging members of the public with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to inform us or contact any nearest police station,” he said.
Bulawayo acting provincial medical director Dr Welcome Mlilo said they are still assessing the value of the stolen equipment.
“I can confirm that there is some donated equipment which was stolen at Ekusileni Medical Centre, but I cannot authoritatively give you detailed information in terms of the value of the property and the exact quantities and police are currently seized with the matter,” he said.
The stolen equipment is part of the goods donated by well-wishers to fight Covid-19.
Ekusileni Medical Centre, a brainchild of late Vice-President Dr Joshua Nkomo, is one of the hospitals identified by Government in Bulawayo as Covid-19 treatment and isolation centre. The hospital has over the last few weeks been receiving donated equipment from various organisations and individuals.
A group of individuals, churches and the business community under the banner “I-am-4-Bulawayo-Fighting-Covid-19” is working towards mobilising US$10,5 million to fund the setting up of coronavirus testing and isolation centres in Bulawayo.
The initiative is focusing on capacitating Ekusileni Medical Centre, Thorngrove Infectious Diseases Hospital and Mater Dei Hospital into fully equipped testing, isolation and treatment centres for Covid-19 as part of efforts to complement Government in the fight against the spread of the deadly global pandemic.
Several companies have been coming in with various equipment to be installed at the identified Bulawayo hospitals.
State Media|THE Covid-19 testing laboratory in Bulawayo is struggling to clear a backlog of cases after being overwhelmed with samples following increased tests nationally, a development that is also affecting retests to establish whether patients have recovered.
Sources said at some point, the backlog had surpassed 500 cases.
The backlog is even affecting suspected Covid-19 patients who are told to self-isolate while waiting for results.
As of yesterday afternoon, Bulawayo had 12 positive Covid-19 cases and one of them was fatal.
The situation has seen Bulawayo delaying retesting the 11 other Covid-19 patients to check if they have recovered.
Bulawayo’s Covid-19 testing started at Mpilo Central Hospital’s National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory last month after the National University of Science and Technology’s (Nust) Applied Genetic Testing Centre (AGTC) moved in some of its equipment to complement Government efforts in fighting the pandemic.
The laboratory is supposed to conduct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Bulawayo, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Midlands and Masvingo.
Acting Bulawayo Provincial Medical Director Dr Welcome Mlilo confirmed the surge in Covid-19 samples which the laboratory was not capacitated to handle.
Dr Mlilo declined to reveal the actual number of samples yet to be tested.
“The ministry’s directive to increase testing occurred when our lab was not well capacitated to deal with that sudden jump on the number of tests. So, we are now putting things in place to normalise the situation. We are now optimising our lab which involves taking some testing components from labs around the country as part of Covid-19 response. We are engaging other labs with components that they are not using but that are suitable for testing,” said Dr Mlilo.
He said he could not immediately reveal some of the required consumables as they required laboratory scientists to properly explain.
Dr Mlilo said he did not have the actual date of when the numbers started increasing.
“I do not have the dates but it happened when we started testing everyone when Government said we should test all frontline workers, everyone admitted to hospitals so the samples increased. But we are now reacting to that and we are putting all components in place and we should be operating optimally by the end of the week. The lab struggled to deal with that number so we are realigning our system to deal with surge in numbers,” Dr Mlilo.
Speaking during the acceptance of two ventilators donated by Harare City Council at City Hall yesterday, Bulawayo City Council health director Dr Edwin Sibanda said challenges at the Covid-19 testing laboratory in Bulawayo were delaying confirmations status of Covid-19 patients in the city.
“All our Covid-19 patients are stable but we are waiting for the labs to certify them. The biggest challenge with this outbreak is that the laboratory is central to the diagnosis and discharge of patients.
“We can’t say you have Covid-19 or you don’t until we test you and that applies also to discharging patients. So, some of these patients do not feel anything, some never felt anything but the point is tests showed that they have the virus,” said Dr Sibanda.
“It is the lab which should also confirm that they no longer have the virus. And now once you have a problem at the lab it means you cannot tell if they are recovering or not.
“The labs must function for this whole thing to work. Because even after testing, you still need to retest to establish if patients are negative. All our patients are due for retesting, and samples have gone. The principle of discharge is saying we must test you after 14 days.”
According to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines, a positive patient needs to be tested twice after 24 hours to confirm whether they have recovered.
Said Dr Sibanda: “If found negative the first time we have to wait a minimum of 24 hours and repeat the PCR test. If the two tests which are a minimum of 24 hours apart show that you are negative then you are discharged or classified as recovered. For some the first test was collected and still has not been processed hence there is no point in going for the second one before results are out.”
State Media|The High Court has castigated high-profile individuals facing corruption charges for abusing bail conditions, seeking passports for travel for medical or business reasons not revealed in the original bail application and thus rendering the court-imposed restrictions ineffective.
The court also noted that some said they were too ill to stand trial, but were able to run around and travel.
When setting bail conditions for those with resources to travel easily and who are facing serious charges, the courts normally seek more than just cash bail, also wanting the surety of the accused person’s up-market home and especially stopping them from leaving Zimbabwe or living in another country. They usually have to frequently call at a police station near their home to prove they are still in the country.
Justice Pisirayi Kwenda yesterday made a scathing attack on former Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) chairperson Stanley Nyasha Kazhanje and former Zimbabwe National Road Administration chief executive Frank Chitukutuku. Both approached the High Court separately, and in the end unsuccessfully, seeking the temporary release of their travel documents.
Kazhanje, is out on bail pending his High Court appeal against both conviction and sentence for allegedly concealing a US$10 000 payment he received from Intratrek Zimbabwe chief executive Wicknell Chivayo, a conviction that earned him a one-year jail term. He wanted to have his passport returned to enable him travel to Mozambique on a business trip.
Chitukutuku is on bail pending trial and had asked for the release of his passport to travel to South Africa to seek urgent medical treatment. He is charged with abusing his office by corruptly influencing the awarding of contracts worth US$20 million for the rehabilitation of roads to Fremus Enterprisers (Pvt) Ltd without following tender procedures.
Delivering the ruling in the case of Kazhanje, Justice Kwenda noted the former ZPC boss had systematically subverted the conditions of his recognisance under the guise of temporary variations.
It was the court’s view that every condition of bail was there to serve a particular purpose separate and distinct from that served by the other conditions.
“All the conditions work together as a unit to ensure that the accused person or the convict does not flee or is incentivised to stand trial or prosecute his appeal,” said Justice Kwenda. “Bail conditions are not tradeable commodities.”
The court, he said, did not operate the commercial activity of barter and would only alter the bail conditions if it was of the opinion that it was necessary to do so.
Justice Kwenda also took a judicial notice of the recent abuse of the temporary release of passports and waiver of reporting conditions by the high-profile individuals facing trial on corruption charges whose matters have come before the higher court.
“The fugitives are incapacitated by illness to attend court and yet alive and kicking for other purposes,” he said.
“While the accused can flee the jurisdiction without a passport, it is difficult to lawfully live in a foreign country without a passport. Therefore, the holding on to the passport acts as a restraint,” he said dismissing the application.
The court also made similar observations on Chitukutuku, who could not explain why he failed to advise the court at his initial bail hearing that he required his passport to travel to South Africa for specialist treatment every three months.
Thus, the judge said, a suspect who withholds information known to him at his or her bail application does so at his or her peril because they will not benefit from the restricted powers provided under the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act to vary the conditions. The court found no merit in Chitukutuku’s application and declined his request for the temporary release of his passport.
