Own Correspondent|A ZBC News crew was on Monday kicked out of the MDC meeting in Gwanda after they started filming proceedings at the venue of the meeting without get prior authorisation from the meeting.

The party further dismissed all other journalists from the meeting and demanded that all delegates to the meeting switch off their Cellphones as a security measure.

The public broadcaster however claims that their cameraman was assaulted.

Said ZBC, “ZBC cameraperson slapped by MDC security detail at Gwanda District Club where party leader Nelson Chamisa was addressing a meeting. The cameraperson was filming outside the venue when he was attacked.”

ZBC cameraperson slapped by MDC security derail at Gwanda District Club where party leader Nelson Chamisa was addressing a meeting. The cameraperson was filming outside the venue when he was attacked. @InfoMinZW, @misazimbabwe, @ZUJOfficial

— ZBC News Online (@ZBCNewsonline) February 10, 2020

MDC Deputy National Spokesperson, Luke Tamborinyoka said his party does not believe in assaulting members of the media and urged the cameraman to make a report to the police.

Said Tamborinyoka, “The MDC does not believe in assaulting members of the media, or anyone for that matter. This was an internal party meeting not open to the press. We are not aware of anyone being assaulted. If it is true that anyone has been assaulted, we urge them to make a report to the police.”

Hundreds of villagers are marooned along rivers and low-lying places in Zimbabwe’s remote Binga District in Matabeleland North province where heavy rains have been pounding the area in the last three days.

A senior regional state official, Farai Marinyame, described the situation as “very bad”, saying the marooned villagers are expected to be rescued by helicopters Tuesday.

“We went to the affected areas but could not do much as some of the people are on top of trees and in places surrounded by floods. We have activated all our rescue systems locally and the same has been done nationally.

“We hope that the Civil Protection Unit will rescue the villagers. When we went there we could only call people’s names from a distance and as a result we don’t know the exact number of people trapped by the floods,” said Marinyame, who is the Hwange District Administrator.

Member of Parliament for Binga North, Prince Dubeko Sibanda, said an estimated 120 villagers are perched on tree tops and mountains in Nsenga, Chinginga, Nsukwale and other areas.

“The villagers have lost their houses, food, livestock and other precious belongings following heavy rains that started Saturday. I believe that Binga Center will also be flooded if the rains continue falling.”

Floods left a trail of destruction in Hwange district recently where hundreds of people lost their property worth millions of dollars.

Zimbabwe’s Meteorological Services warned recently that heavy rains will hit some parts of the country.

The southern African nation is in the midst of a devastating drought that has left nearly eight million people in need of food aid. The World Food Program (WFP) says of the 7,7 million seeking drought relief aid, about 5,5 million are in rural areas and 2,2 million in towns and cities.

The WFP says the situation has been worsened by serious economic problems facing Zimbabwe.

VOA

Chimurenga music legend Thomas Mapfumo has taken Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to task over reports he owns several mansions including one whose estimate cost is US$10 million.

Mapfumo questioned Chiwenga’s source of money, arguing it is not possible for the former army general to own a house which costs such sums as are being touted if the money was from legitimate sources.

“My question is (the former) army general is said to own (several) properties and a house said to be worth up to US$10 million.

“Here (in the United States) we have celebrities with houses in Hollywood but we do not hear that they own US$10 million houses.

“How much was (the former army) general’s salary while in the army?

“We hear of stolen money which the (former army) general and (President Emmerson) Mnangagwa are aware of,” Mapfumo said.

The Chimurenga music icon, currently based in the US, has urged Zimbabweans to hold Chiwenga and Mnangagwa accountable for for all the missing State funds, including the US$15 billion in diamond money the late former President Robert Mugabe said had been diverted.

“This is about people’s money.

“We could have hired foreign (auditors) to come and investigate how that money disappeared.

“Fifteen billion United States dollars is a lot of money; people should not be silent about that issue,” the Corruption hit-maker added.

Thomas Mapfumo questions source of Chiwenga wealth

The issue of Chiwenga’s properties came to light following the acrimonious legal battle between Chiwenga and his estranged wife Marry Mubaiwa.

Upon return last year from China where he had gone for treatment for an undisclosed ailment, Chiwenga immediately litigated against his wife, accusing her of attempted murder, fraud and money laundering, and at the same time filing for divorce.

The money laundering charge involved allegations of Mubaiwa “purchasing several homes” in South Africa.

The former model is also accused of fraudulently upgrading her marriage to the retired army general from an unregistered customary union to Chapter 5:11 of the Marriages Act.

Ligations by husband Chiwenga eventually led to Mubaiwa’s arrest on December 14.

The Vice President has fought and succeeded to have his embattled wife kept away from their US$10 million matrimonial home in Borrowdale Brooke.

This is the same house Mapfumo says Chiwenga should explain where he got the US$10 million to purchase it.

Watch video downloading below:

Nehanda Radio

THREE men wielding an AK-47 rifle allegedly raided a suspected illegal money changer from Cowdray Park suburb in Bulawayo and got away with $5 000 and US$700 after firing some shots.

The suspects raided Ms Abishel Madika’s home while she was asleep.

Bulawayo acting police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube yesterday confirmed the armed robbery case which occurred on Sunday at about 4AM.

“We are investigating an armed robbery case which occurred in Cowdray Park suburb in the early hours of Sunday morning.

“Three armed robbers who we suspect were armed with an AK-47 rifle raided a house in the suburb and demanded cash. The complainant said the suspects fired shots as they demanded cash and got away with $5 000 and US$700,” said Insp Ncube.

He said investigating officers who attended the scene found two live rounds from the AK-47 rifle at the scene.

Insp Ncube said the police will descend on members of the public who defy the law by continuing to carry dangerous weapons despite their prohibition.

Last month, police issued a three months prohibition order banning people from carrying dangerous weapons that include guns, knives and machetes in public areas.

“We appeal to members of the public who might have information on the suspects to come forward. Our teams are on the ground to get to the bottom of this matter.

“As police we recently issued prohibition orders banning the public from carrying dangerous weapons but we have observed that some members of the public have not complied with the prohibition orders,” said Insp Ncube.

“To us any gun which is in the wrong hands is a matter of concern. It does not have to be an AK-47 rifle but any weapon which finds its way into the wrong hands is a concern to us.

“We are scaling up our investigation to ensure that the public is protected from such criminals.”

Ms Madika could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Recently, police increased deployment of officers in Cowdray Park suburb after the community raised concern over muggings and house breaking cases.

The public has called for increased police patrols in areas perceived to be hotspots for criminals.

At least 10 heads of state are expected to attend the burial of former President Daniel arap Moi at his Kabarak home on Wednesday.

Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho revealed that plans to welcome the heads of state are in top gear.

“Our preparations at the moment are for 10 heads of state, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will release more details Monday (today),”said Dr Kibicho

Dr Kibicho led the steering committee and top security officers organising the burial of Mzee Moi in inspecting the former president’s final resting place at his Kabarak home in Nakuru County on Sunday.

He said the steering committee was satisfied that everything was going on as planned.

“The burial plans for Mzee Moi are going on smoothly, we hope to give him a dignified send-off,” said Dr Kibicho.

He said the funeral service will be held at Kabarak University: “We have inspected the facilities at Kabarak University. We can assure the country that preparations are in place and security will be tight to ensure the ceremony goes on smoothly,” said Dr Kibicho.

He announced that there will be two services at Kabarak University. The first service will be open to the public while the final rites will be a private affair at Mzee Moi’s home.

“Only close family members and selected dignitaries will be allowed at the final venue where Mzee Moi will be laid to rest,” added Dr Kibicho.

He said that national prayers on Tuesday and Wednesday at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi and Kabarak University will be open to all Kenyans.

He appealed to the motorists to follow the traffic rules and directions by traffic officers during the burial.

“I urge motorists to adhere strictly to directions that will be given by the traffic officers manning the routes from Nairobi to Kabarak University to ensure a smooth flow of traffic,” said Dr Kibicho.

He revealed that the Tuesday service at Nyayo Stadium and Kabarak University will be attended by at least 30,000 people.

In a rare recognition, the Principal Secretary lauded the local media for their extensive coverage since the former president died.

“I would like to thank the local media for their extensive and good coverage of the burial preparations of Mzee Moi even as the State makes the final plans to give Mzee Moi a honourable send-off on Wednesday,” said Dr Kibicho.

Meanwhile, Nairobi residents on Monday woke up to a heavy traffic jam caused by the motorcade that was escorting the body of former President Moi to Parliament Buildings for the final day of public viewing.

Most roads adjacent to Parliament were closed by traffic police officers and other security agencies to pave the way for the procession from Lee Funeral Home.

The gridlocks persisted until midmorning as hundreds of Kenyans from all walks of life queued to view the former president’s body as he lay in state.

Kenyans took to social media to react to the traffic snarl-up in the city.

Some commuters who were in matatus (kombis) opted to alight and walk into the city in order to get to work on time. @KenyaTraffic tweeted: “Passengers opt to walk, it’s just that I can’t do the same. Mombasa Road still at standstill two hours later.”

“Parking fees in Nairobi should be increased to Sh700. Traffic is really messy and is caused mainly by private vehicles,” @Edu_Karis tweeted.

On Langata road, motorists were stuck at the same spot for more than an hour. @KushmirK tweeted: “Langata road is a mess. One hour between Galleria and Wildlife.”

Others suggested using a motorcycle as it would get commuters around faster than motor vehicles.

Since Saturday, the streets have been dotted by heavy military presence as an entourage escorted Moi’s body from the Lee Funeral Home to Parliament Buildings.

Thousands of Kenyans, including political leaders, have been thronging Parliament to view the body.

– Daily Nation

THE Cabinet meeting, which had been scheduled for this morning has been moved to tomorrow.

In a statement, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Misheck Sibanda, advised all Cabinet Ministers that the meeting will be held at 9am.

Dr Sibanda said the change in dates has been necessitated by the need to attend to other engagements.

“The Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Micheck Sibanda wishes to kindly advise all Cabinet members that this week’s Cabinet meeting scheduled for 0900hours on Tuesday, 11 February 2020 has been moved to Wednesday, 12th of February at 0900hours, at the usual venue.

“The arrangement has been necessitated by the need to accommodate other pressing engagements. Members should then plan accordingly,” Dr Sibanda said.

State Media|NR Barber, a mining firm, is seeking the Constitutional Court (Concourt)’s permission to challenge last month’s Supreme Court ruling which converted United States dollar debts to the Zimdollar at a rate of 1:1 in line with Statutory Instrument 33 of 2019.

The company is basing its challenge on its submission that the Statutory Instrument was unconstitutional and that it should have been declared so at the appeal hearing which overturned a previous High Court ruling that debts in US dollars retained their value in that currency.

The firm lost its case last month after Zambezi Gas Private Limited, a mining services provider, successfully appealed to overturn the earlier ruling by the High Court, which was in favour of NR Barber.

The Supreme Court found that the statutory instrument made it clear that debts contracted before the statutory instrument were to be converted at 1:1.

NR Barber was owed $3 885 000 plus interest by Zambezi Gas Zimbabwe (Private) Limited since 2014 and at that stage the debt was effectively denominated in US dollars

In an urgent chamber application, NR Barber, which has hired top lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu, is seeking leave to appeal the judgment of the Supreme Court delivered on January 20 this year.

Alternatively, the company seeks leave to approach the Concourt in terms of Section 85(1) of the Constitution, challenging the decision of the Supreme Court; that section allows anyone in their own interest, in the interest of someone unable to act for themselves, or in the public interest, to approach “a court” alleging that a fundamental right has been infringed and the court may grant appropriate relief including a declaration of rights and an award of compensation.

NR Barber is under judicial management. But the company’s judicial manager, Mr Antiock Kurauone, stated in an affidavit that the court’s decision, had an effect of violating the company’s rights.

The mining firm, which is a legal person in terms of the law, contends that the judgment has an effect of violating its property rights as enshrined under Section 71 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the section on property rights in the declaration of rights.

In its request to appeal, NR Barber has submitted that its rights under Section 56 (1) of the Constitution guaranteeing a fair hearing were breached as well as its right under the fair hearing provisions in sections 69 (2) and 69 (3) which go into detail on rights in civil cases and disputes. It argues that the lower court erred in proceeding on a “false basis being that the validity of Statutory Instrument SI33 of 2019 was not challenged and was consequently not an issue before it”.

But Mr Kurauone, in his affidavit, said the court should have considered the statutory instrument and found it void as being promulgated “contrary to provisions of Section 2 of the Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) Act” and then found that the High Court judgment should stand.

SI33 of 2019 abolished the multi-currency regime and reintroduced the Zimdollar.

Zambezi Gas did not honour its debt despite several court orders against it, until the Government, through SI33, made it clear US dollar balances were converted to the RTGS dollar, a new local currency, at the rate of 1:1.

The gas firm paid RTGS$4 136 806.54 into NR Barber’s bank account in May last year saying that was the final settlement of its debt and the interest that had accrued.

On the date of payment, the amount was equivalent to just US$144 788.23 at the interbank rate.

This prompted NR Barber to seek to attach Zambezi Gas’ property, leading to the latter approaching the High Court, seeking a declaration that it had fully met NR Barber’s debt.

The High Court ruled in favour of NR Barber, stating that debts contracted in US dollars would continue to hold the US dollar value.

Zambezi Gas immediately appealed against the decision at the Supreme Court, which overturned the High Court decision in favour of Zambezi Gas.

Seven people were killed, while 55 others were injured when a Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (Zupco) bus, two kombis and a Honda Fit collided at the 290km peg along the Kwekwe-Harare highway yesterday afternoon.

According to eyewitnesses, tragedy struck when the Honda Fit encroached into the lane of the Harare-bound bus, resulting in the vehicles side-swiping.

The bus then hit a kombi parked on the left side of the road, which then hit another kombi which was parked in front of it.

Three of the six passengers who were in the Honda Fit died on the spot and so did one in one of the kombis and two on the bus.

One other passenger, who was on the bus, succumbed to his injuries on admission to Kwekwe General Hospital.-State media

Farai Dziva|MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has suspended the party’s Provincial Executive.

Chamisa announced the suspension during a heated provincial meeting in Masvingo on Sunday.

“From what I have gathered we are now temporarily suspending the provincial executive,” said Chamisa.

He also condemned the persecution of MDC vice chairperson Job Sikhala.

“I asked Honourable Sikhala to go to Bikita to represent the party.

If you persecute Sikhala then you are persecuting me as well.

If you arrest Sikhala it means you have arrested me because he went Bikita to campaign for the party,” said Chamisa.

“I also want to stress that we are not interested in the formation of another GNU.What we want is a Transitional Authority.

POLAD was created to serve Mnangagwa’s interests so we will not join the discredited platform,” added Chamisa.

Farai Dziva|MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has described the persecution of the opposition party’s vice chairperson Job Sikhala as a desperate attempt by Emmerson Mnangagwa to silence democratic voices.

Chamisa made the remarks during a heated provincial meeting in Masvingo on Sunday.

“I asked Honourable Sikhala to go to Bikita to represent the party.

If you persecute Sikhala then you are persecuting me as well.

If you arrest Sikhala it means you have arrested me because he went Bikita to campaign for the party,” said Chamisa.

“I also want to stress that we are not interested in the formation of another GNU.What we want is a Transitional Authority.

POLAD was created to serve Mnangagwa’s interests so we will not join the discredited platform,” added Chamisa.

Farai Dziva|Teachers are now selling sweets and biscuits to pupils in a bid to compensate for the poor salaries they are earning.

Responding to a directive from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to stop selling sweets to pupils and students, teachers declared they would continue come up with initiatives to sustain themselves and their families.

Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe(PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou acknowledged he received the government directive.

However defiant PTUZ members have vowed to defy the directive.

“We are selling sweets and biscuits to pupils as part of efforts to atone for our poor salaries,” said a PTUZ official.

Farai Dziva|
Five people died in Bulawayo 2019 after they being instructed by a prophet to stop taking ARVs.

National Aids Council Bulawayo Provincial Manager, Sinatra Nyathi, quoted by Health Times, urged people not to discontinue their medication for whatever reasons.

“Remember, when someone is on ART, the ARVs are responsible for suppressing the viral load to levels where we don’t want it to be detectable in their bloodstream.

So if you don’t take your drugs, you are actually giving the virus the change to multiply and most of the time when the person’s virus has multiplied to those levels, most of them they will not make it.

That is why we have got a challenge to say people are going to the prophets and faith-based organisations and say prophet so and so prayed for me and I threw away the drugs.”

Pindula|Prominent journalist and filmmaker, Hopewell Chin’ono has claimed that a member of the A ZANU PF politburo told him that Sakunda boss, Kuda Tagwirei bought all ZANU PF cars member and is also the one paying their salaries, and provides fuel to them.

Posting on microblogging site, Twitter, Chin’ono said:

A senior ZANUPF insider explained to me how one of the businessmen accused by @LewisMatutu of corruption is used by the party to fund its programs.

The insider said Tafadzwa Musarara was protected by the President bcoz like Tagwirei, he helps the party in rural constituencies! pic.twitter.com/9UJiJPhbal

— Hopewell Chin’ono (@daddyhope) February 10, 2020

In other words, ZANUPF has been captured by a cartel King!

This confirms what the Prosecutor General said earlier!

The remarks are said when the politburo has recently suspended Youth League deputy secretary, Lewis Matutu and Political Commissar, Godfrey Tsenengamu for violating party code of conduct after they named Tagwirei at a press conference as the cartel bleeding the country.

Tagwirei was also in the news recently after Vice President Constantino Chiwenga revealed in his court papers that the businessman was the one who bought him the luxurious cars he has, a gesture that was seen as a purchase of favours from the former army boss.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission has announced that it has started investigating Tagwirei on corruption allegations that were raised by him by the ZANU PF Youth League.

ZACC’s seriousness in fighting corruption has since been questioned after Prosecutor General, Kumbirai Hodzi this Monday startled the nation by alleging that the Commission was one of the institutions protecting cartels in the country.

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has claimed that it has begun investigations on corruption accused Sakunda Holdings boss, Kuda Tagwirei.

The alleged investigation was reportedly triggered by a report that was made by ousted former ZANU PF deputy Secretary for the Youth League, Lewis Matutu and the League’s Political Commissar, Godfrey Tsenengamu.

ZACC spokesperson, Commissioner John Makamure told Nehanda Radio that although the Commission is investigating the businessman, it is still waiting for the evidence it requested from Tsenengamu and Matutu. Makamure said:

We are investigating. If anyone makes a report, we investigate. We request those who file complaints to also assist with evidence. It makes our job easier.

We met them (Tsenengamu and Matutu); we asked for evidence and we are waiting for that evidence; not to say we are not looking into that issue, no.

Tagwirei was last week named by the ZANU PF Youth League as one of the individuals who are bleeding the economy by engaging in underhand dealings.

Tsenengamu and Matutu lost their party posts following the announcement a development which prompted others to say that Tagwirei was being protected by political elites within the ruling ZANU PF.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police in Gokwe have announced that that they have recovered a Nissan Caravan and two cellphones which were abandoned by wanted murder suspects who fled after being sighted at a shopping centre.

Police say the suspects are wanted in connection with a case murder which occurred in Kadoma.It is said that the  suspects abandoned vehicle was abandoned after some warning shots were fired. The manhunt for these suspects is still ongoing.

1/2 Police in Gokwe recovered a Nissan Caravan and two cellphones on 7/2/20 which were abandoned by wanted murder suspects who fled after being sighted at a shopping centre. The suspects are wanted in connection with a case murder which occurred in Kadoma.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) February 10, 2020

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is investigating if Harare businessman Tonny Sarpo indeed performed community service, given as an alternative to a jail term for vehicle theft, at Morris Depot.

This follows two conflicting reports from the police on queries by the Department of Community Service. The first report said Sarpo, who is a director of an engineering company, had not reported for community service, while the second report said he had reported, but giving some work dates that fell on weekends.

The department’s officers, who visited the depot in mid-January, failed to locate Sarpo. Apparently, Sarpo had asked the court to be allowed to do his community service at Morris Depot. As is required, community service officers made a follow up and were told by police officers at the quartermaster’s office that Sarpo had never reported for work since his sentence in December last year.

The director of community service in the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ms Loice Majonga then wrote a report to the Harare Magistrates’ Court and a warrant of arrest was issued against Sarpo.

Police responded saying Sarpo was performing community service at the depot workshop and submitted signed roster sheets.

However, the court order directed the businessman to do community service during weekdays, but the police report showed that Sarpo performed unpaid work even on weekends.

The same report showed signatures of the offender and that of the police supervisor on December 21 2019, which was a Saturday, on January 9, 2020, which was a Thursday and the next day, a Friday. But then there were also signatures for January 11, which was a Saturday.

However, on the strength of the police statement that the businessman performed community service, a Harare magistrate cancelled the warrant of arrest. ZACC was then called in. The person whose car was stolen has been active in following up the matter and made a formal complaint. ZACC chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo confirmed receiving the report from the complainant.

“I can confirm that we received a report of possible corruption involving a man who is said to have defaulted on community service. I have referred the report to the investigators, who are now investigating the case.”

Ms Majonga insists that the offender never performed community service. In her letter to the businessman’s lawyers, Ms Majonga said there was need for an inquiry.

“The Community Service Department notes your interest in this matter and would like to advise that it stands by its initially established position that your client never reported at Morris Depot to do community service.

“Furthermore, please take notice, that the breach enquiry procedure has already been initiated and it is our considered view, buttressed by the community service policy framework or terms of reference that such matters be handled by way of conducting breach enquiries,” reads the letter dated January 21 2020.

The quartermaster’s office at Morris Depot on January 15 commented as follows:

“Please be advised that we never saw this person at our premises ever since.”

Contrary to the January 15 report, Inspector J. Bvonyongwa wrote another statement later saying: “I hereby confirm that the above mentioned man has been reporting for duty at this workshop as indicated on the attached duty roster from December 21 2019. When the court made a visit through the Community Service office to Morris Depot, on the 15th of January 2020, they visited the wrong office, which is not conversant with the goings on at the workshop.”

Daily News|HARARE City Council has taken legal action against debtors with 10 000 summons having been issued to defaulting ratepayers so far.

The local authority is owed more than $1 billion by business, the government and residents and has been battling to provide services like clean water and garbage collection due to its financial incapacitation.

Harare council spokesperson Michael Chideme said the local authority is owed in excess of $900 million and the issuing of summons is just the tip of an iceberg in recovering debt as many more summons were being processed.

“We are urging debtors to do payment plans or to pay up before legal action is taken, and residents entering into payment plans should at least pay their current bills,” Chideme said.

Among debtors that owe the local authority is the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, the National Social Security Authority (Nssa), Norton Town Council, Chitungwiza Town Council, and National Railways of Zimbabwe.

Government entities such as Nssa, NRZ and Telecel are also in the top debtors’ list that also includes Crest Breeders, Irvine’s Day Old Chicks, Simon Muzenda Housing Co-operative, Caps (Pvt) Ltd, among others.

FIRST Mutual Holdings Limited (First Mutual) has denied owing MDC vice president Tendai Biti $15 million, which the politician claimed related to his retirement package policy.

Biti told the court that upon retirement, the pension fund was supposed to pay him the contractual $15 million sum assured after the company debased his policy.

But First Mutual has denied tersely ever owing the MDC vice president. First Mutual said it did not reach any such agreement with Biti.

“Defendant (First Mutual) denies that is conducts the business of an insurer. Defendant avers in particular that it did not contract or reach any agreement with plaintiff (Biti) in the manner and respects herein alleged or at all and puts plaintiff to proof hereof. As a consequence of the above averments, defendant contends that the relief sought by plaintiff is not justified at all,” First Mutual said.

The Harare East MP told the court that in 1993, while he was a partner at Honey and Blanckenberg law firm, his pension contributions were with his consent converted by First Mutual into a pension policy.

“The annuitisation phase commenced with a payment of $15 648, 04 and the written projection given by defendant was that upon attaining the retirement age of 60, plaintiff would be paid a capital value of $4 133 593 and an annual pension of $782 066, 47 giving a total assured sum of $15 000 000,” Biti said.

The parliamentarian, however, said, “In breach of the agreement between the parties and taking advantage of the changes in currency that occurred in the 2009, defendant has unilaterally claimed that as at March 2009, the value of plaintiff’s policy was US$196, 76 and US$327, 28 as at December 31, 2015”.

Biti further told the court the unilateral position taken by First Mutual Holdings means that it will, upon his retirement, pay less than the agreed value of the policy.

“In terms of the purchasing power parity theory which constitutes an integral tacit term of the insurance relationship between the parties, plaintiff is entitled to a payment which preserves and reflects the total value by which he was insured,” he said.

He said that despite there being an agreement between the parties, First Mutual Holdings had refused, even in the light of the findings made by a presidential commission of inquiry, to take a position which recognises and upholds the essence of what was agreed.

He said this made it necessary for the court to declare the correct position for the guidance of the parties.

In his papers, Biti sought an order declaring that, “In terms of the insurance contract concluded between parties, upon the attainment by plaintiff of the retirement age of 60, plaintiff is entitled to payment of an amount which as at the date of such payment is equivalent to the value of $15 million such value being reckoned as at the 31st of December 1993”.

The race to succeed Pupurai Togarepi began in February 2019 when Godfrey Tsenengamu tried leading a coup against Togarepi and Matutu.

Many names have been thrown into the race with speculation rife that there are only 3 top contenders for the Youth league top post.

Tinomuda Machakaire known as TinMac is currently deputy Minister of Youth, he is Vice President Chiwenga’s ally and a Tagwirei in-law, making him a favorite given Tagwirei’s influence. However, President Mnangagwa is currently under fire for firing Togarepi over the cartels scandal which has Kuda Tagwirei at the centre. Appointing a Tagwirei ally would be a direct endorsement of cartels and corruption. President Emmerson Mnangagwa cannot afford that at the moment. Tino Machakaire is a pragmatic leader who has support at grassroots but his proximity to Kuda Tagwirei works against him.

The second name that has been touted in the race to succeed Togarepi is that of Energy Mutodi. While Energy Mutodi might be unpopular on twitter and social media he enjoys grassroots support in Mashonaland East, Masvingo and Manicaland provinces. Mutodi who holds a PhD in finance from the University of Cape Town is currently Deputy Minister of Information. Mutodi a close Mnangagwa ally who was persecuted by the Mugabe regime for his Mnangagwa allegiance is said to be the Palace favorite to land the Post. Mutodi is militant, and this is an important trait when commanding ZANU PF Youth League forces especially as we gear towards the 2023 elections. Mutodi is no stranger to controversy but he has mastered the art of political survival and shrewd political tactics which make him an asset to the Mnangagwa camp towards 2023.

The third name that has been thrown into the race is that of Terence Mukupe. Mukupe lost the Harare East constituency to Tendai Biti and subsequently lost the Deputy Minister of Finance post which he enjoyed prior to the 2018 elections. Mukupe has been a long term Mnangagwa ally, and is an in law to Oliver Chidawu. This makes him an integral part of the Mnangagwa inner circle. Mukupe is pragmatic, but currently seems too busy and preoccupied with personal business ventures. Mukupe has been posting pictures of a lavish lifestyle on social media while Zimbabweans languish in poverty. Many are of the view that Mukupe is out of touch with the needs of the people, Mukupe is soft and is not viewed as a capable ground commander who could rally the youth league into a successful 2023 campaign. Mukupe would face a lot of resistance from rural constituencies which are ZANU PF’s stronghold and most important base.

The decision lies solely with President Emmerson Mnangagwa as President and First Secretary of ZANU PF though he needs to choose tactfully as his chosen secretary for youth will be the face of his 2023 campaign which is already underway. The chosen Secretary needs to be someone who can really whip votes and command grassroots support and respect while maintaining a tight, disciplined ship.

A speeding ZUPCO bus has killed a dozen people on the spot while several others were seriously injured.

The incident happened on Monday afternoon at the Truckers Inn along the Harare-Bulawayo Highway just outside Kwekwe.

The bus rammed onto three vehicles after it had brakes failure while at a high speed killing some people who were not even in the bus, the injured were rushed to Kwekwe General Hospital.

According to witnesses the ZUPCO bus driver was speeding. They said the bus which was headed for Harare developed a mechanical fault and rammed into a Honda Fit vehicle travelling to Kwekwe.

“The ZUPCO bus driver failed to control the bus after ramming into the Honda Fit before hitting two other stationery commuter omnibuses which were parked on the roadside,” the witnesses said.

Three people travelling in the Honda Fit, two passengers in one of the commuter omnibuses died on the spot. The other dead passengers were travelling in the ZUPCO bus.

The police officer Commanding Kwekwe District, Conrad Mubaiwa said information on the exact numbers of the deceased and injured were going to be availed in due course. 

“We are still gathering information on what really transpired as police. We will be availing information on the number of the deceased and the injured in due course,” he said.

Own Correspondent|At One moment, the Matabeleland South MDC leadership was contemplating calling off the provincial interface meeting with party leader Nelson Chamisa as only a handful of people had turned up at the venue four hours after the scheduled start time of the meeting.

Heavy rains continued to bombard the town with almost all access roads into town from surrounding mines and villages flooding.

When Chamisa finally arrived after lunch, a little over one hundred people were inside the venue which has a capacity seating of about a thousand people.

Introducing the party President to the people, party National Chairperson Thabitha Khumalo rightfully estimated that that there were under 200 people in the hall a far cry from the huge numbers Chamisa had been addressing in other provinces.

As soon as the rains subsided, the never say die MDC supporters filled up the venue like a collapsed dam wall.

When Chamisa concluded his nearly two hours address the hall had been turned into a sea of red t-shirts and hats, wet as they were.

Chamisa did justice to the gathering as he delivered a pinpoint address on the issue currently affecting the county and the possible way forward the MDC will take.

Chamisa castigated President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his lacklustre approach towards the national dialogue indicating that he was ready to meet with Mnangagwa at any time.

Chamisa insisted that he will not under any circumstances join the POLAD platform which he said has no defined way forward for the country. Chamisa insisted that real talks to save the county are between him and Mnangagwa only.

Chamisa said that the MDC will not give up on wanting to engage with Mnangagwa for the setting up of a National Transitional Authority.

“We have been patient with Mnangagwa, if he does not want to volunteer to come to the negotiating table, we will find means of pushing him to come to the table,” said Chamisa to a wild cheer.

Giving direction to the party, Chamisa called on the party structures to bring down the running of the party to the newly set up branches.

“Every member of the party must belong to a branch and the branches will be the ones that will have a major voice in the running of the party,” he said.

“Our party has always been big at the top and small at the bottom and now it’s time to change the triangle and make it big at the bottom for balance.”

He further implored on the party structures to end the contour culture of imposing candidates especially in rural constituencies as that contributed a lot to the party losses in the rural areas.

“Never again are we going to have scavenging birds landing in constituencies they never live in wanting to be candidates then take off as soon as they lose,” said Chamisa.

Watch video downloading below:

https://www.facebook.com/ZimEye/videos/1832742180190409

By Jane Mlambo| Controversial Zimdancehall chanter Seh Calaz real name Tawanda Mumanyi has opened up on his relationship with troublesome colleague Soul Jah Love saying he needs prayers, support and love for him to overcome the current problems going on in his life.

In a touching message, Calaz said it is hard for society to accept that public figures also experience hardships, hence his call for people to pray for Jah Love.

Calaz opened up on his relationship with the Ndini Uya Uya hit maker saying they have gone through a lot in life from being friends, brothers and rivals.

“I don’t usually say this but this guy is one of the few artist I have respect for in this industry. He has been my friend, brother, rival for years. I think as a nation he needs more of our prayers, support and love. People go through so many personal hurdles and conflicts but as public figures most of the times nobody really knows the hardships you face in your personal life. It is easy to spend a lot of energy concentrating on keeping people happy and entertained asi uchirwisana nezvakawanda wega pasina arikuziva. Take time to listen to Souljah luv’s songs KANA NDAFA, NDIMI MAKAURAYA and more of his recent tracks before deciding to just look down on him and blame what you think is the problem when you are not really sure of what he has to fight everyday. I stand with him in what he is going through and I hope we all do the same and pray for strength for Makuruwani, Chibaba, tese tinoziva kuti dhanzi rinodhakwa kana ari low,” said Calaz.

1/2 Police in Gokwe recovered a Nissan Caravan and two cellphones on 7/2/20 which were abandoned by wanted murder suspects who fled after being sighted at a shopping centre. The suspects are wanted in connection with a case murder which occurred in Kadoma.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) February 10, 2020

2/2 The vehicle was abandoned after some warning shots were fired. The manhunt for these suspects is still ongoing.

— Zimbabwe Republic Police (@PoliceZimbabwe) February 10, 2020

By A Correspondent- Two elderly men who “clashed” at their teenage girlfriend’s place have been arrested for causing a scene at her place.

The drama filled incident occurred at Queenspark East last week on Thursday.

The court heard that while Ebson Kandlela (61) was relaxing with his 17-year-old lover at her place they heard a knock at the gate.

The lady in question rushed to the gate and found out that it was her other lover Petro Matutu (42).  

She refused to open the gate while giving an excuse that her parents who are reportedly based in South Africa were at the house. As a result an argument ensued between the two. 

Hearing the noise Kandlela  rushed to the gate, he accused Matutu of disturbing them but that did not go down well with Matutu.

A fight broke out, Matutu hit Kandlela with a stone on the forehead leaving him with a deep wound on the face.

A police officer who was on patrol intervened and arrested the love rivals. They were arrested.

Kandlela took to the stand: “ I’m facing marital problems, as a result stress took its toll on me, that is why I had to fight with him over that lady. I’m embarrassed by what happened and I do not know how I will face my family.”

Matutu told court he felt hard done by her lover whom he has been pampering with a lot money for her upkeep.

“I have spent a lot money on her upkeep and that is how she pays me. I’m gutted by this! To make matters worse I had planned to marry her but shockingly things have taken a terrible turn,” said the worried looking Matutu. 

Magistrate Stephen Ndlovu found them guilty for disorderly conduct and fined them $300 each, failure to pay by end of this month they will languish in jail for two months.

-BMetro

Farai Dziva|Teachers are now selling sweets and biscuits to pupils in a bid to compensate for the poor salaries they are earning.

Responding to a directive from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to stop selling sweets to pupils and students, teachers declared they would continue come up with initiatives to sustain themselves and their families.

Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe(PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou acknowledged he received the government directive.

However defiant PTUZ members have vowed to defy the directive.

“We are selling sweets and biscuits to pupils as part of efforts to atone for our poor salaries,” said a PTUZ official.

By A Correspondent- Two suspected Zimbabwe Republic Police officers were severely assaulted by a mob during a foiled robbery attempt.

The duo, Question Karachi (36) and Kaziva Mayimbo (24) were not asked to plead on a robbery charge when they appeared before Concession resident magistrate Ruth Moyo, who remanded them in custody to February 19.

The State alleges that on February 4, the suspects together with two accomplices, who are still at large, connived to rob gold buyer Zachariah Machacha of Dutch mining syndicate in Mazowe.

The suspects, who were dressed in police uniform, threatened to arrest Machacha after misrepresenting that they were conducting operation Chikorokoza Ngachipere.

They handcuffed him and ordered him to surrender all the money in his possession.

The suspects searched him and stole US$30 and ZWL$500.

Angry residents who were watching allegedly pounced on the suspects and meted instant justice before effecting citizens’ arrest.

Two of the suspects fled while two were successfully apprehended and surrendered to Mazowe police.

-Newsday

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is on record issuing a five year pledge when he assumed power post 2018 harmonised polls. Do you think that he has fulfilled any of those promises?

— ZimEye (@ZimEye) February 10, 2020

By A Correspondent- When president Emmerson Mnangagwa came to power, he made a number of promises which he said would be fulfilled within his first five-year term.

Mnangagwa pledged to put job creation first; have zero-tolerance to corruption; establish a modern, affordable healthcare system for all; develop infrastructure worthy of the new Zimbabwe, and generate unprecedented educational and employment opportunities for our youth.

At the moment, the health sector in the country is in a parlous state whilst the same can be said for all other sectors including education and industry.

Mnangagwa established an anti-corruption commission, ZACC, which some analysts say was meant to hoodwink the public into believing that authorities were not only paying lip service to the anti-corruption campaign.

The unemployment rate has been on the rise over the past twenty-four months as a result of closure of several companies who cited the increased cost of doing business in the country.

By A Correspondent- The director of the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare’s epidemiology and disease control, Portia Manangazira has said that Zimbabwe has no plans of quarantining visitors from the coronavirus-affected China.

Mananganzira said that it is expensive and against the World Health Organisation (WHO) regulations to quarantine those visitors. She said:

We have already started self-quarantining. Those under surveillance are advised to do minimal interactions for at least 14 days. Things like going to church and meeting should be avoided for now.

In the event that someone coming straight from Wuhan or other affected countries has shown symptoms of the virus, we will then quarantine them at the hospital. We cannot quarantine all travellers coming from affected areas in one place because it’s expensive and against World Health Organisation (WHO) regulations.

The deadly virus erupted in Wuhan, China in December last year and has since claimed more than 700 lives with thousands having tested positive to the virus.

Some countries including the United States of America have repatriated some of their citizens whilst suspected cases of the virus have since been quarantined.

The timing of the outbreak is very concerning considering that Zimbabwe’s health sector is collapsed.

-DailyNews

– Introduces Polad club To AU

– Complains about sanctions from the European Union and the United States of America.

ZANU PF leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa presented a speech in which he was a lone voice – practically “talking to himself” on the issue of targeted sanctions against the military he has used to kill over 24 people since the 1st August 2018 when he changed the national election results as fully filmed on the state broadcaster [ZBC].

Addressing African leaders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia at the 33rd African Union Summit, Mnangagwa complained about sanctions from the US and the European Union, [although the only remaining EU sanctions are on the late president Robert Mugabe and his wife, Grace, and the Zimbabwe Defence Industries].

Yesterday, South African president Cyril Ramaphosa ignored Mnangagwa’s request to introduce Mnangagwa’s anti sanctions agenda to the summit. The African Union as a whole, also completely avoided the topic as they emphasised rather the Silencing of The Guns By 2020 theme.

The theme of the year is: “Silencing the guns, creating conducive conditions for Africa’s development,” a direct contradiction to Mnangagwa as a person and as a leader – the United Nations has implicated him for using live ammunition since the 1st August 2018 when he changed election results.

VIDEO LOADING BELOW

Mnangagwa said it’s not his country that is targeted by the United States and its allies as several countries on the continent and beyond are battling with economic sanctions imposed on them.

Mnangagwa said for international peace and cooperation, dialogue not sanctions is the right approach.

“This is in solidarity with the people and governments of South Sudan, Somalia, Burundi and Cuba who are equally suffering from similar unilateral sanctions. These imposed sanctions have been on for two decades. The EU has taken positive steps to repeal the sanctions regime, we urged them to complete the process by removing the remaining measures against Zimbabwe. My administration has reneged the European Union and the United States of America with a view to normalise our bilateral relations and put the past behind us,” he said.

Mnangagwa also briefed members of the African Union on developments on the ground as well as measures being adopted to enhance the livelihoods of the country’s citizens.

“In our quest to enhance national cohesion unity and political tolerance, we have established Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD) which brings together various political actors in our country. Meanwhile, our efforts to revive the economy are ongoing, and the ease of doing business has improved as acknowledged by the global index on ease of doing business. We have opened up media space to more players under the new dispensation. Zimbabwe is therefore fully committed to continuing those voluntary reforms because they are good for our people and further facilitate sustainable development, national unity and peace,” he explained.

At the ongoing 33rd African Union Summit, Zimbabwe officially joined the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) despite outstanding issues. In June last year, Government said it would fully implement the AfCFTA after 15 years when the country is expected to have fully industrialised.
Zimbabwe is also a member of the G6 countries, a grouping that supports the AfCFTA but argues they face specific development challenges. – state media/additional reporting

Farai Dziva|MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has described the persecution of the opposition party’s vice chairperson Job Sikhala as a desperate attempt by Emmerson Mnangagwa to silence democratic voices.

Chamisa made the remarks during a heated provincial meeting in Masvingo on Sunday.

“I asked Honourable Sikhala to go to Bikita to represent the party.

If you persecute Sikhala then you are persecuting me as well.

If you arrest Sikhala it means you have arrested me because he went Bikita to campaign for the party,” said Chamisa.

“I also want to stress that we are not interested in the formation of another GNU.What we want is a Transitional Authority.

POLAD was created to serve Mnangagwa’s interests so we will not join the discredited platform,” added Chamisa?

MDC leader Nelson Chamisa is addressing party members in Gwanda as part of his national tour to meet the party’s provincial leadership.

Below are live updates of the meeting……

1445: Chamisa addresses the party structures in Gwanda

1440: Chamisa takes to the podium, turns the house wild with greetings in Ndebele

14:35 Thabitha Khumalo blasts the provincial leadership for failing to bring all the people in the structures to meet the President.

14:30 National chair person Thabitha Khumalo takes to the podium

14:15 Different constituencies updating Chamisa on progress made in setting up branch structures

1410: Nelson Chamisa has arrived in Gwanda at the Gwanda District Club for the meeting with the party structures.

1400: Party stalwarts brave the heavy rains pounding Gwanda District for an interface with party leader Nelson Chamisa.

MDC leader Nelson Chamisa is addressing party members in Gwanda as part of his national tour to meet the party’s provincial leadership.

Below are live updates of the meeting.

15:00 This year we want to put in place the people’s government. ZANU PF is the ruling party we are the leading party.

14:57 The second thing for our agenda is to win parliament. We will not continue losing elections because people impose candidates.

14:55 To achieve our objective, starting this year anyone who is in party leadership and fails to deliver will be substituted. Chamisa

14:51 Our Agenda 2020 main objective is to be the governing party in the country. We must be different from ZANU PF. Chamisa

14:50 Chamisa assures that as soon as he is done touring the provinces, he will visit all the 210 Constituencies.

14:40 Chamisa takes to the podium turns the house wild with greetings in Ndebele

14:30 National chair person Thabitha Khumalo takes to the podium introduces Chamisa to the house.

1410: Nelson Chamisa has arrived in Gwanda at the Gwanda District Club for the meeting with the party structures.

1400: Party stalwarts brave the heavy rains pounding Gwanda District for an interface with party leader Nelson Chamisa.

Farai Dziva|
Five people died in Bulawayo 2019 after they being instructed by a prophet to stop taking ARVs.

National Aids Council Bulawayo Provincial Manager, Sinatra Nyathi, quoted by Health Times, urged people not to discontinue their medication for whatever reasons.

“Remember, when someone is on ART, the ARVs are responsible for suppressing the viral load to levels where we don’t want it to be detectable in their bloodstream.

So if you don’t take your drugs, you are actually giving the virus the change to multiply and most of the time when the person’s virus has multiplied to those levels, most of them they will not make it.

That is why we have got a challenge to say people are going to the prophets and faith-based organisations and say prophet so and so prayed for me and I threw away the drugs.”

By A Correspondent- Long Cheng Plaza’s engineering section manager appeared in court last week for allegedly s_o_d_omising a general hand at the popular shopping mall in Belvedere, Harare.

Yichun Wang (46), who is being represented by lawyer Oscar Gasva, appeared at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts charged with aggravated indecent assault.

Wang is denying the charges.

Prosecutor Constance Ngombengombe alleges that sometime in 2015, Wang called the general hand (name withheld) to his office and ordered him to report for night duty.

It is alleged that when the general hand reported for duty, Wang started asking for se_xual favours from him saying he would protect him at work for any misdemeanour.

The man turned down Wang’s request, but he insisted.

Ms Ngombengombe alleges that the general hand eventually yielded to Wang’s demands.

It is alleged that on the first encounter, Wang paid $3.

The court heard that since that day, Wang would sod0mise the man twice per week until he reported the matter to the deputy general manager.

It is said that the deputy general manager failed to take action, prompting the victim to lodge a complaint with the police leading to Wang’s arrest.

He is expected to appear in court on February 27 for trial.

Magistrate Amos Mubobo is presiding over the matter.

-Statemedia

MDC leader Nelson Chamisa will be addressing party members in Gwanda as part of his national tour to meet the party’s provincial leadership.

ZimEye will be giving you live updates of the meeting.

This is a developing story. Refresh this page for latest updates

By A Correspondent- Young girls in southern Africa are selling se_x – sometimes for less than the cost of bread – to survive a hunger crisis ensnaring tens of millions, aid agencies said on Thursday.

In Angola, girls of 12 sell themselves for as little as 40 cents to feed their families as the south of the country faces its worst drought in four decades, World Vision said.

The United Nations says a record 45 million people in southern Africa face hunger amid a “silent catastrophe” caused by repeated drought, widespread flooding and economic chaos.

World Vision said staff had seen a significant increase in girls resorting to transactional se_x in Angola and Zimbabwe amid “huge levels of desperation”.

Robert Bulten, World Vision’s emergencies director in Angola, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation a girl might get 500 kwanzas ($1) for se_x – enough to buy about a kilo of beans or two kilos of maize – but could get as little as 200 kwanzas.

“We definitely know there’s an increase. It’s difficult to quantify because it’s taboo … but I would say a significant number (are doing this),” he said.

“We’re talking about girls between 12 and 17.”

Bulten said the price of some staples had doubled since last year. With the next harvest not due until June, he predicted hunger would worsen.

In Zimbabwe, CARE International said there were reports of girls as young as 14 resorting to selling se_x, especially en route to South Africa and near goldmines.

“Sometimes they earn as little as 5 RTGS ($0.31) for one se_xual encounter, which is really awful … it’s not even enough to buy a loaf,” said CARE’s regional gender expert Everjoy Mahuku.

ActionAid regional advisor Chikondi Chabvuta said women and girls “on the edge of survival” were forced into transactional se_x in Mozambique and Malawi.

Swathes of southern Africa have experienced their lowest rainfall since 1981, according to the United Nations, which says the crisis is fuelled by climate change as temperatures in the region rise at about twice the global rate.

Other countries affected include Zambia, Madagascar, Namibia, Lesotho and Eswatini.

Aid workers said many of the girls would normally be in school. In some cases, they had dropped out because of deepening family poverty, but many schools had also closed.

World Vision’s Bulten said the crisis in southern Angola had also increased the incidence of rape and child marriage.

Girls were at heightened risk of rape while walking long distances for water or foraging in forests, he said.

Families struggling to make ends meet may marry girls off early so they have one less mouth to feed, but Bulten said sometimes it was to keep them out of the prostitution.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said the crisis had driven up child marriage in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lesotho and Namibia.

-Wires

Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Emmanuel Zellers Gumbo, the Spokesperson for the Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust. I am not ashamed to declare today that I was the brains behind the Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust formation.

The main aim of the formation of the trust is to compliment the support from the MDC party against his persecution that was packaged by the authoritarian and unpopular illegitimate regime of Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Firstly, I would like to thank the MDC People’s President Advocate Nelson Chamisa for the immense support he gave to our friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala during his trying times. He truly demonstrated that he is a people’s President.

We would like to further thank the MDC family for standing with us throughout this critical period in the history of our country. Friends and relatives can’t be mentioned as it is our obligation to stand with one of us during such times.

In our thousands we complimented the efforts of all Zimbabweans in fighting on the corner of our dear friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala. Our solidarity is purely love for the man and our frowning on injustice and dictatorship. It is motivated by no any other agenda but purely protection of our dear friend from abuse by the State and his enemies.

We have managed to build a fortress around our dear friend of which anyone who dares us must be warned in advance that we are prepared to die for him. Why we are prepared to die for him, is now public knowledge to our dear Zimbabweans. Our friend has gone through multifaceted abuse by the regime since time immemorial.

We think that all along we did not render enough support for him to thwart the evil machinations of this evil regime of ZANU PF against his person. The persecution our friend went through for years can not be allowed to persist unchallenged.

Today’s press conference was called for two important developments since Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala appeared in Court for his trial on the 3rd of February 2020.

Firstly, the police issued a very sickening press release on its Twitter handle informing the world about the burglary and theft that took place at the house of the presiding Judge Hon Garainesu Mawadze who is trying our dear friend’s case at the High Court sitting in Masvingo.

The police in their press release insinuated that the unlawful entry and theft that happened at the Honourable Justice’s house had anything to do with his presiding over our dear friend’s trial. We did not take lightly to such innuendos.

This is not only scandalous but defamatory in all material respects. Suggesting that a man of a man of implacable standing like Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala may be suggested to be linked with such disgrace is crossing the red line.

We took the statement as a declaration of hostility against us and we have already taken remedial measures by instructing our lawyers to sue the police not only for defamation but for constitutional damages for the violation of our dear friend’s right to dignity.

The brand of our friend is unquantifiable but we have instructed our lawyers to sue the police to the tune of $50 million Zimbabwe dollars. $25 million for defamation and another $25 million for constitutional damages. Quantification was done in consideration of the brand and public life space our friend is occupying in Zimbabwe.

He is a freedom fighter, a people’s public representative and a legal practitioner of implacable record in Zimbabwe. An attempt to damage his public standing by the police force that has turned into a rogue element against the citizens of Zimbabwe can not go unchallenged.

Secondly, Ezra Chadzamira a ZANU PF mandarin in Masvingo addressed the people in Mwenezi, during the Council by election saying that no matter the number of people who come to support our dear friend Hon Job Sikhala, he will go to prison under whatever circumstances.

Firstly, before going into detail, let me hasten to say that Chadzamira is an idiot of no substance and has no history to be taken as anything by anyone in Zimbabwe. He is just a jester who got a junior appointment by Emmerson Mnangagwa after the coup as a resident Minister for Masvingo Province.

He is unknown beyond the parameters of his house gate. He seeks attention by attacking our dear friend. We also wonder what knowledge he has over the judgement awaiting our dear friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala for him to boldly say such statements.

It is dangerous for anyone no matter who you are to interfere with the judiciary. This undermines the administration of justice in our country. It is unfortunately further confirming ZANU PF’s interference with the operation of the judiciary. Let this idiot be warned that his utterances are a recipe for serious conflict in the country in the event that it is confirmed that he interfered with the administration of justice in our country. The consequences are ghastly to contemplate in the event that his utterances come to fruition.

I thank you.

Emmanuel Zellers Gumbo
Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust Spokesperson.

Watch the video downloading below for this statement and more……….

By A Correspondent- The National Aids Council (Nac) Bulawayo provincial manager Sinatra Nyathi has raised concern over the deaths of people with HIV and Aids who stopped taking antiretroviral drugs after being told to do so by faith healers and “prophets”.

Nyathi said the issue was slowing down mitigatory programmes which sought to stem further spread of the disease as well as prolong lives of those infected.

“I was saddened to witness the deaths of about five people who I knew personally who succumbed to the disease after being told to stop medication by their prophets,” Nyathi told NewsDay recently.

“Although Nac has been working with churches in their interventions there remained a big headache (given) the mushrooming of new churches which are led by these prophets and faith healers.

“We are urging people on antiretroviral therapy (Art) not to throw away their drugs. We are currently raising awareness in the communities.”

Although she could not provide statistics on the number of people who have died after defaulting, Nyathi said any death linked to this was an issue of concern.

She also said while they had nothing against prayer, their worry was on patients being discharged from taking medication in the absence of a qualified doctor.

“We are not saying people should not pray, but patients must continue taking their medication as prescribed by their doctors,” Nyathi said.

Defaulting on Art often leads to viral resistance, treatment failure and increased risks of disease progression.

Last year it was reported that about 4 000 HIV positive people in Bulawayo were on second and third line Art after defaulting from the recommended first line regimen.

“There is need for further engagement with the faith-based organisations and impress upon them the need to ensure that those on Art are allowed to do so without any interruptions,” Nyathi said.

Previously there have been many false claims on cures for Aids. In 2018 leader and founder of the PHD Ministries Walter Magaya announced his controversial HIV and Aids herbal remedy, Aguma.

He was widely condemned for prematurely announcing cure before seeking government clearance.

He was subsequently charged with contravening section 40(1) of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, which criminalises the distribution of unapproved medicines and misleading advertisement of such.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is working towards ensuring that by end of this year, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status, receive sustained Art and have viral suppression.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Chitungwiza’s Zengeza 2 administration office will soon house a passport application and collection office in an effort to decentralise issuance of passports and civil registration documents to districts and to decongest provincial offices, Chitungwiza acting town clerk Tonderai Kasu has said.

This follows a request made by the office of the Registrar-General (RG) last year for it to be allowed to renovate vacant offices at Chitungwiza Town Council to create room for a passports centre so as to decongest the Makombe Building passport office.

Chitungwiza, however, opted to offer the office of the Registrar-General space at Zengeza 2 administration offices as opposed to the town council head office.

“The current space we (Chitungwiza Town Council) are operating on now is a temporary space as it was meant for building a school so it was not going to make sense for us to give it to the RG’s office, but instead we allocated them a permanent space in Zengeza 2, because our long-term plan as council is to build a proper structure in Zengeza.

“The other influencing factor for our choice is that Zengeza is a central place and is close to business centres, something that is conducive for a place that will be frequented by a lot of people,” Kasu said.

Mayor Lovemore Maiko said Chitungwiza is one of the most populous towns in the country and as such the proposed passport office will serve a very significant number of people.

By A Correspondent- Former Zanu-PF Secretary for the Youth League Kudzanai Chipanga is set to bounce back into mainstream politics after the ruling party’s Manicaland Province recommended that he be brought back to the youth league, amid revelations that Chipanga met President Emmerson Mnangagwa last week.

Chipanga was appointed the Youth League secretary by former President Robert Mugabe in 2016 after the sacking of Pupurai Togarepi (56) who had sided with war veterans and then Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Zanu-PF factional fights between the G40 and Lacoste.

The former Makoni West legislator played a stellar role in organising the youth interface rallies which were used by Mugabe to lash at his opponents in his last year in power.

Ironically, Chipanga replaced Togarepi who was yesterday fired from the Zanu-PF Politburo for indiscipline after he supported the naming and shaming of Zanu-PF linked businessmen.

Several sources close to the developments are quoted confirming to Zimbabwe Voice under conditions of anonymity that Chipanga’s return to lead the Zanu-PF Youth League is as good as a done deal.

“Chipanga has the backing of Zanu-PF chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri who he approached with his pleas to be allowed back in.”

“Most of the leadership in Manicaland are agreed that Chipanga’s energy is needed in the youth league as 2023 elections beckon. His case was discussed in the Politburo meeting yesterday, but the issue generated more heat than light as some officials, particularly those from the Midlands Province, were not agreeable to bringing him back yet.”

The source further said President Mnangagwa was however agreeable to having Chipanga back, but did not want to force his decision through.

“In the end, the President indicated that he will consult with his fellow leaders in the Presidium and others to reach a decisive conclusion. But it looks like it’s a done deal,” said the source.

Chipanga was fired from the ruling party in 2017 after the fall of Mugabe.

Alongside Innocent Hamandishe, he worked with then political commissar Saviour Kasukuwere to drive massive support towards rallies that both Robert Mugabe and the former First Lady Grace held countrywide especially in their last year in power.

Another source, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said Chipanga had wormed his way into the heart of the top leadership, including President Mnangagwa.

“He (Chipanga) is sincerely remorseful and willing to work for the party. The leadership believe he is what is lacking in the Youth League, and are intent on bringing him back. It’s a matter of time before those who have their reservations, however justified, give in.”

Chipanga is considered a typical Zanu-PF Youth with the “right grooming”, sources said. Coincidentally, Zanu-PF leaders Lewis Matutu and Godfrey Tsenengamu were suspended from their positions recently for indiscipline, with the Politburo indicated that the duo lacked an understanding of party ideology and were to undergo compulsory training at the Herbert Chitepo Ideological College.

The 38-year-old graduated from the Border Gezi Training Centre in Mt Darwin, where he did his national service programme after completion of secondary school.

He has remained quiet and not intent to criticize the ruling party since his dismissal.

-Wires

By A Correspondent- A Harare police woman has been arrested for allegedly leaking classified information meant for her superiors to the public, through WhatsApp.

Lorine Mugoronji now faces criminal charges, yet to be disclosed, as well as disciplinary action under the Police Act.

In a statement, National Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said officers must always concentrate on their mandate of crime prevention and investigation.

“Constable Lorine Joyce Mugoronji of Harare has been arrested for using the WhatsApp platform to leak police information which was meant for commanders and is now facing both criminal and disciplinary charges.

“ZRP reiterates that the responsibility of police officers on any duty is to concentrate on crime prevention, detection and investigation,” he said.

Asst Comm Nyathi said police officers must not spend time on their cellphones while on duty.

“In this regard, police officers on any deployment point, shall focus on allocated tasks and serve the public according to set standards. Police officers will thus not be allowed to focus on their cellphones at the expense of duty or abuse WhatsApp platforms, Twitter, Facebook or any other social media sites,” he said.

ZRP is on record urging members of the public to desist from abusing social media platforms through recording and posting footage and images of accidents and scenes of murder, among other issues.

-Statemedia

By A Correspondent- Police officers must not use social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, etc while on duty, and rather focus on crime prevention and investigation.

This was said by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) National Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi.

He said:

… police officers on any deployment point, shall focus on allocated tasks and serve the public according to set standards.

Police officers will thus not be allowed to focus on their cellphones at the expense of duty or abuse WhatsApp platforms, Twitter, Facebook or any other social media sites.

Ass Comm. Nyathi’s remarks follow the arrest of a Harare-based policewoman for allegedly leaking classified information meant for her superiors to the public, through WhatsApp.

The police officer, Lorine Joyce Mugoronji now faces criminal charges as well as disciplinary action under the Police Act.

-Statemedia

Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Emmanuel Zellers Gumbo, the Spokesperson for the Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust. I am not ashamed to declare today that I was the brains behind the Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust formation, to compliment the support from the MDC party against his persecution that was packaged by the authoritarian and unpopular illegitimate regime of Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Firstly, I would like to that the MDC People’s President Advocate Nelson Chamisa for the immense support he gave to our friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala during his trying times. He truly demonstrated that he is a people’s President. We would like to further thank the MDC family for standing with us throughout this critical period in the history of our country. Friends and relatives can’t be mentioned as it is our obligation to stand with one of us during such times. In our thousands we complimented the efforts of all Zimbabweans in fighting on the corner of our dear friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala. Our solidarity is purely love for the man and our frowning on injustice and dictatorship. It is motivated by no any other agenda but purely protection of our dear friend from abuse by the State and his enemies. We have managed to build a fortress around our dear friend of which anyone who dares us must be warned in advance that we are prepared to die for him. Why we are prepared to die for him, is now public knowledge to our dear Zimbabweans. Our friend has gone through multifaceted abuse by the regime since time immemorial. We think that all along we did not render enough support for him to thwart the evil machinations of this evil regime of ZANU PF against his person. The persecution our friend went through for years can not be allowed to persist unchallenged.

Today’s press conference was called for two important developments since Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala appeared in Court for his trial on the 3rd of February 2020. Firstly, the police issued a very sickening press release on its Twitter handle informing the world about the burglary and theft that took place at the house of the presiding Judge Hon Garainesu Mawadze who is trying our dear friend’s case at the High Court sitting in Masvingo. The police in their press release insinuated that the unlawful entry and theft that happened at the Honourable Justice’s house had anything to do with his presiding over our dear friend’s trial. We did not take lightly to such innuendos. This is not only scandalous but defamatory in all material respects. Suggesting that a man of a man of implacable standing like Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala may be suggested to be linked with such disgrace is crossing the red line. We took the statement as a declaration of hostility against us and we have already taken remedial measures by instructing our lawyers to sue the police not only for defamation but for constitutional damages for the violation of our dear friend’s right to dignity. The brand of our friend is unquantifiable but we have instructed our lawyers to sue the police to the tune of $50 million Zimbabwe dollars. $25 million for defamation and another $25 million for constitutional damages. Quantification was done in consideration of the brand and public life space our friend is occupying in Zimbabwe. He is a freedom fighter, a people’s public representative and a legal practitioner of implacable record in Zimbabwe. An attempt to damage his public standing by the police force that has turned into a rogue element against the citizens of Zimbabwe can not go unchallenged.

Secondly, Ezra Chadzamira a ZANU PF mandarin in Masvingo addressed the people in Mwenezi, during the Council by election saying that no matter the number of people who come to support our dear friend Hon Job Sikhala, he will go to prison under whatever circumstances. Firstly, before going into detail, let me hasten to say that Chadzamira is an idiot of no substance and has no history to be taken as anything by anyone in Zimbabwe. He is just a jester who got a junior appointment by Emmerson Mnangagwa after the coup as a resident Minister for Masvingo Province. He is unknown beyond the parameters of his house gate. He seeks attention by attacking our dear friend. We also wonder what knowledge he has over the judgement awaiting our dear friend Hon Job Wiwa Sikhala for him to boldly say such statements. It is dangerous for anyone no matter who you are to interfere with the judiciary. This undermines the administration of justice in our country. It is unfortunately further confirming ZANU PF’s interference with the operation of the judiciary. Let this idiot be warned that his utterances are a recipe for serious conflict in the country in the event that it is confirmed that he interfered with the administration of justice in our country. The consequences are ghastly to contemplate in the event that his utterances come to fruition.

I thank you.

Emmanuel Zellers Gumbo
Friends of Job Sikhala Solidarity Trust Spokesperson.

By A Correspondent-Former Ward 15 long-serving MDC councillor, Alderman Israel Mabaleka  (74) has died.  

He died yesterday at his house in Old Luveve suburb after battling diabetics for some time.

Ald Mabaleka, who was a councillor from 2000 to 2018 was described as a unifier and a hardworking man who had the people’s interests at heart.

His younger brother and family spokesperson Mr Justice Mabaleka said his brother was a senior citizen the community looked up to.

“It’s sad to come to terms with the fact that my brother has passed on. He was someone who listened to people’s complaints, a brother we all looked up to. He was our advisor, the one person we all turned to when in need and he knew how to help us,” he said.

Luveve MP, Stella Ndlovu echoed Mr Mabaleka’s sentiments saying Luveve had lost a great leader.

“Ald Mabaleka was a hard worker, a very responsible man. He once took over Ward 15 and 16 and he did tremendously well. He was equally available for both wards. He loved his people. Our Bulawayo is gone, our great shadow, we will never find someone like him, we will surely miss him,” she said.

The late alderman is survived by four children. Mourners are gathered at house number 3197 Old Luveve suburb.

-Statemedia

By A Correspondent- A Bulawayo man heaved a sigh of relief after the court granted him a protection order against his co-tenant who threatened to stab him and make a false rape report against him.

Mr Ezekiel Phakathi said he was living in fear as Lovegirl Tshuma sometimes approached him armed.  

“The respondent came to my room on December 3 last year carrying a knife and other weapons to attack me. I did not fight back because she stated that if I touched her, she would accuse me of rape,” Mr Phakathi said.

“She also threatened me saying if she miscarries, I will be responsible for her loss. May the court assist me so that the respondent stops coming to my house with weapons and claim that she will make false accusations against me.”

Western Commonage magistrate Mr Urgent Mvundla granted an interim protection order prohibiting Tshuma from threatening violence and verbally abusing Mr Phakathi. He also barred her from entering Mr Phakathi’s place of residence or be sent to jail.

Another protection order was granted against Tshuma who also deprived Ms Athlete Moyo of her peace as she insulted and threatened to stab her over accusations of gossip.

“The respondent also used to shout at me in the company of her two sisters for no reason. She also threatened that if I report her to the police, she would pay the fine,” said Ms Moyo.

Mr Vundla granted an interim order prohibiting Tshuma from threatening violence, emotionally and verbally abusing Ms Moyo.

-Statemedia

VICTORIA Falls Mayor, Somvelo Dlamini (MDC Alliance) has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission officials on allegations of abuse of office by engaging in illicit land dealings especially commercial stands.

The opposition party’s ward 9 councillor, Dhlamini is under investigation for alleged abuse of office through corrupt activities involving the sale of commercial stands.

The Victoria Falls Mayor was taken from his home on Saturday and is still detained at the Victoria Falls police station for further investigations.

Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) Spokesperson, John Makamure said he will only make a detailed comment on Monday after getting finer details on the matter.

Dlamini’s arrest comes at a time the anti-graft body has intensified its drive to cleanse local authorities of corrupt officials.

ZACC has in the recent past reaffirmed its resolve to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the fight against corruption in line with the Second Republic’s stance of zero tolerance to graft.

-Online

By A Correspondent- Police in Chivhu have arrested three murder suspects, who shot and killed an 83-year-old woman after rap_ing and robbing her in December last year.

The suspects were arrested early this month and identified as Pride Gavajena (27), Givemore Mutego (27) and Allen Dzvova (29) all of Chief Nyoka, Chivhu.

The murder occurred on December 5, 2019 at Kandira village, Chief Nyoka, Chivhu.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the accused stormed their victim’s homestead armed with a home-made firearm and a sharp object, with the intention to steal some money after gathering information that she had received some money from her daughter based in South Africa. They allegedly broke into her house and stole an undisclosed amount of money and a cellphone, before one of them rap_ed and shot her in the head.

On February 3 this year, police investigations led to the recovery of the victim’s Nokia 1280 cellphone from a person who claimed to have bought it from the accused persons, leading to the arrests.

Nyathi said the accused persons have since appeared in court and were remanded in custody.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- A Gwanda man drowned in a river after he slipped and fell into the water while bathing.

Ward 17 Councillor Ephraim Nyathi confirmed the incident which occurred at Tuli River in Manama on Tuesday at around 11am.

He said Babongile Tlou (27) who was a taxi driver in the area was taking a bath in the river when he fell into the water.

“There is a man from Manama area which falls under my ward who drowned while he was taking a bath in Tuli River.

“People usually go to that river to bath without any problems. Babongile arrived at the river at around 11am and parked his car close by. While he was bathing, he is reported to have slipped and fallen into the river.

“His younger brother who was also at the river tried to pull him out but failed.

“He called out for assistance from some men who were fishing in the area and they rushed to assist. Unfortunately, by the time they pulled out Babongile’s body out of the water he was already dead,” he said.

Clr Nyathi said the community was shocked by the incident.

He said Babongile was operating a taxi which plied the Manama-Gwanda Town route. Babongile was buried at his home in Manama on Thursday last week.

Minister of State for Matabeleland South provincial affairs, Cde Abednico Ncube who also attended the burial expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Tlou family.

-Statemedia

Mainland China has reported another rise in cases of the new virus after a sharp decline the previous day, while the number of deaths increased by 97 to 908, with at least two more outside the country. 

On Monday, China’s health ministry said another 3,062 cases had been reported over the previous 24 hours, raising the total of those affected by the disease in Chinese mainland to 40,171.

Earlier, France closed two schools after five British visitors contracted the virus at a ski resort. Malaysia, South Korea and Vietnam reported one new case each.

Meanwhile, the mother of a physician who died last week in the hardest-hit city of Wuhan said she wants an explanation from authorities who reprimanded her son for warning about the virus.

Monday’s rise was a turnaround from a significant reduction in new cases reported Sunday, 2,656, down by about 20% from the 3,399 new cases reported in the previous 24-hour period. That had prompted optimism that the “joint control mechanism of different regions and the strict prevention and control measures have worked,” in the words of a spokesman for the National Health Commission, Mi Feng.

Also Sunday, new cases were reported in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, the U.K. and Spain. More than 360 cases have been confirmed outside mainland China. 

“Dramatic reductions” in the pace of the disease’s spread should begin this month if containment works, Dr. Ian Lipkin, director of Columbia University’s Center for Infection and Immunity, said in an online news conference on Sunday. He assisted the World Health Organization and Chinese authorities during the outbreak of SARS, or severe acute respiratory syndrome.

Warmer weather will reduce the virus’s ability to spread and bring people out of enclosed spaces where it is transmitted more easily, Lipkin said. However, he said, if new cases spike as people return to work after the Lunar New Year holiday, which was extended to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, then “we’ll know we’re in trouble.”

The new U.K. case was the nation’s fourth, while Spain reported its second, as European authorities sought to contain the spread of the virus by tracking down people who came into contact with those infected.

Both of the new cases were acquired during trips to France, officials said.

-AP

By A Correspondent- MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has revealed that his party is on a membership drive in rural constituencies threatened to fire party legislators and councillors who he says have abandoned their constituencies.

Speaking at Sakubva Beit Hall, in Mutare on Saturday, where he met Manicaland’s provincial district structures, Chamisa said there would be no imposition of candidates in future elections.

Chamisa said he was going to introduce a new criteria of choosing candidates, which will start from branch level, seeking opinion of traditional leaders on upright candidates who should serve constituencies.

“We are strengthening our rural constituencies, this is where we are going to spend most of our time, we need to work very hard on our rural constituencies,” he said.

“We are having challenges with our MPs; they are not going to the people, we received reports that our MPs and councillors have abandoned their constituencies since they were voted into power in 2018, we are warning to recall them if they continue to do so,” he said

“We are aware that some MPs and councillors are taking their positions as jobs. We are not employment agents and we are not there to offer jobs, don’t expect to be employed or expect to be deployed by the party,” he said

“So I am warning you that if you MPs and councillors continue not to engage your people we are going to take your positions,” he said

“The MDC is the leading party and Zanu-PF is the ruling party, and MDC is bigger that Zanu-PF,” Chamisa said, adding that he wants to bring all the party’s veterans into the mainstream politics.

He also added that he wanted the army on the negotiating table.

“We want to bring out all our veterans into the mainstream of our politics, they have played a critical role since the formation of our party almost 20 years ago,” he said.

“As a party we have said no to government of national unity we need a transitional authority; there we can arrange for a credible election. We also want to bring the army on the negotiation table because Zanu-PF has been using the soldiers, so we would want to know what the soldiers want,” he said.

“We want the army to serve the people and not to serve a party, that is all we want,” he added.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has issued an ultimatum to all retailers and wholesalers to formalise their businesses with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) and other regulatory bodies or risk having their operations closed.

CRZ president Mr Denford Mutashu said the organisation was giving retailers and wholesalers a six-month ultimatum to comply with the country’s regulatory and statutory requirements. He said the organisation has over the years realised that a number of businesses were avoiding or evading payment of their tax obligations, in the process denying Government an opportunity to raise revenue.

“We are calling upon all unregistered retailers and wholesalers to register their business operations because as an association we have come up with an ultimatum, which puts the deadline for registration within the next six months, failure to which one might lose their business. The rampant disregard of authority has reached a serious level and the country is not benefiting from it. Only (unscrupulous) individual corporates or traders are benefiting,” said Mr Mutashu.

He said unregistered businesses were in the habit of selling sub-standard and uncertified products whose origins are unknown which tend to pose a health hazard to consumers.

“There are serious leakages where informal traders continue to sell products that are not suitable for human consumption,” said Mr Mutashu.

He also said most of the unregistered businesses were in the tendency of flouting labour laws.

“We are also receiving numerous complaints that these unregistered or informal retailers and wholesalers are willingly flouting labour laws with most of their workers working without any provision for off days as well as leave pay. Some of the workers are earning salaries below the minimum wage and we want to ensure that such violation of human rights is brought to an end,” said Mr Mutashu.

He said the organisation would be assisted by local authorities, law enforcement agents and licensing departments to identify unregistered businesses throughout the country.

“We are going to be working with the local authorities, police, licensing department to close in on all unregistered retailers and wholesalers so that we bring sanity in the sector,” said Mr Mutashu.

As part of its efforts to augment revenue collections from businesses, Government through Zimra rolled out a fiscalisation project a few years ago, in which the entities have to use fiscal tax registers that capture financial information and relays it in real time to tax authorities.

Zimra also went on a drive to register Small to Medium Enterprises registered to formalise operations of their businesses.

-Statemedia

By A Correspondent- Luxury life and driving a state-of-the-art car is everybody’s wish, but in Zimbabwe this is coming at a huge cost to the country’s drying revenue flows, following illegal activities that have spurred authorities to act.

While some of Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) employees and importers have enjoyed a fair share of advantage over the years through unscrupulous means of importing the cars, the net is closing in on a number of these individuals.

A document seen by the Daily News on Sunday compiled by Zimra chief loss control manager Tapiwa Manyika showed that the organisation was yet to recover $70 million through state-of-the-art cars that were imported into the country without paying the requisite duty.

Manyika said the opaque motor vehicle importation deals were heavily bleeding the country of potential revenue.

According to Manyika’s document, 485 motor vehicles were identified as having been fraudulently registered and 433 were last year published in the print media calling for owners to report to Zimra for verification of the clearance details.

“A total of 52 vehicles out of the 485 had data capturing errors that were verified and found to have been correctly cleared while 108 vehicles have been seized to date. There is huge impact on revenue collection. It is estimated that $70 000 000 will be recovered directly from this project. The project is expected to improve compliance which will be a major factor in the long term,” he said.

His document further showed that data capturing clerks were at the centre of the fraudulent car importation deals.

“Data capturing clerks have the highest impact on vehicles that are imported into the country without payment of duty. They are now a corruption hot spot,” Manyika said.

Recently, businessman and flamboyant socialite Genius “Ginimbi” Kadungure was ordered by the High Court to pay an additional US$58 000 duty for his R1,9 million Bentley Continental GT car imported from South Africa.

Zimra claimed Kadungure had undervalued the car, which saw him making an initial payment of US$81 450 as duty for the motor vehicle.

The order for him to pay the extra money came after Kadungure rushed to the court seeking to stop a move by Zimra to impound the car.

While making these follow-ups, Zimra has been taking a tough stance on its members involved in corruption activities and has a strong lifestyle audit programme for its workers, which has seen a number of them being brought to book over the issues.

Manyika said at least 176 of its officials were either suspended or dismissed over corruption allegations between 2016 and 2019.

In a detailed breakdown, Manyika’s document showed that in 2016, 52 officials were affected, while in 2017 there were 35, in 2018, 55 and in 2019 there were 34 cases.

Some of the officials have since been brought before the High Court to give a justification of the properties that they owned vis-à-vis their salaries.

In a recent application, prosecutor Tapiwa Kasema from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) dragged Desberia Mutara to the High Court for her to explain the source of her wealth.

In terms of the court papers, Mutara was employed by Zimra from October 2014 as a revenue trainee, based at Beitbridge Border Post, before she occupied her current position of revenue specialist.

Kasema told the court that Mutara cumulatively earned $57 936 between October 2014 and February last year. She, however, declared on her Zimra asset declaration of 2018 that she acquired a residential stand in Mainway Meadows, Waterfalls, Harare, valued at $16 000, a Toyota Rav 4 worth $10 000 and two Toyota Corollas valued at $8 000 each.

Kasema said the total value of her properties was $117 000, which doubled her salary.

“I concluded that Desberia Mutara’s wealth is ill-gotten and the sources of the funds are proceeds of crime liable to forfeiture,” Kasema said.

He said he came to this conclusion because: “The first respondent (Mutara) is an employee of Zimra who earned the above negligible salary incapable of being the source of her wealth, there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the first respondent is or has been involved in serious crime (whether in Zimbabwe or elsewhere), or a person connected with the first respondent is or has been, so involved.

Her being subjected to corruption such as bribery and smuggling of imports at Beitbridge Border Post where she was employed makes it more probable than not that her source of wealth was illicit enrichment”.

Kasema sought an order for the confiscation of the property in terms of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act.

Meanwhile, another ex-Zimra official Kennedy Nyatoti was also taken to court after he failed to explain his source of wealth.

Nyatoti and his estranged wife Tatenda Chisadza failed to explain how they acquired a residential stand in Mabvazuva, Harare, a Honda CRV, a Honda Fit and a Nissan Skyline, leading to an application for the forfeiture of the property in August last year.

Nyatoti, however, recently filed an application for dismissal of the application for want of prosecution.

“First respondent (NPA) has failed to prosecute its matter within the confines of the rules of this court. Its application lacks merit to the extent that prospects of success were very low hence the neglecting and/or omitting to pursue its action. Applicant (Nyatoti) humbly prays that application under case number HC 7091/19 be dismissed …,” Nyatoti said.

-DailyNews

By A Correspondent- The National Aids Council (Nac) Bulawayo provincial manager Sinatra Nyathi has raised concern over the deaths of people with HIV and Aids who stopped taking antiretroviral drugs after being told to do so by faith healers and “prophets”.

Nyathi said the issue was slowing down mitigatory programmes which sought to stem further spread of the disease as well as prolong lives of those infected.

“I was saddened to witness the deaths of about five people who I knew personally who succumbed to the disease after being told to stop medication by their prophets,” Nyathi told NewsDay recently.

“Although Nac has been working with churches in their interventions there remained a big headache (given) the mushrooming of new churches which are led by these prophets and faith healers.

“We are urging people on antiretroviral therapy (Art) not to throw away their drugs. We are currently raising awareness in the communities.”

Although she could not provide statistics on the number of people who have died after defaulting, Nyathi said any death linked to this was an issue of concern.

She also said while they had nothing against prayer, their worry was on patients being discharged from taking medication in the absence of a qualified doctor.

“We are not saying people should not pray, but patients must continue taking their medication as prescribed by their doctors,” Nyathi said.

Defaulting on Art often leads to viral resistance, treatment failure and increased risks of disease progression.

Last year it was reported that about 4 000 HIV positive people in Bulawayo were on second and third line Art after defaulting from the recommended first line regimen.

“There is need for further engagement with the faith-based organisations and impress upon them the need to ensure that those on Art are allowed to do so without any interruptions,” Nyathi said.

Previously there have been many false claims on cures for Aids. In 2018 leader and founder of the PHD Ministries Walter Magaya announced his controversial HIV and Aids herbal remedy, Aguma.

He was widely condemned for prematurely announcing cure before seeking government clearance.

He was subsequently charged with contravening section 40(1) of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, which criminalises the distribution of unapproved medicines and misleading advertisement of such.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is working towards ensuring that by end of this year, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status, receive sustained Art and have viral suppression.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Chitungwiza’s Zengeza 2 administration office will soon house a passport application and collection office in an effort to decentralise issuance of passports and civil registration documents to districts and to decongest provincial offices, Chitungwiza acting town clerk Tonderai Kasu has said.

This follows a request made by the office of the Registrar-General (RG) last year for it to be allowed to renovate vacant offices at Chitungwiza Town Council to create room for a passports centre so as to decongest the Makombe Building passport office.

Chitungwiza, however, opted to offer the office of the Registrar-General space at Zengeza 2 administration offices as opposed to the town council head office.

“The current space we (Chitungwiza Town Council) are operating on now is a temporary space as it was meant for building a school so it was not going to make sense for us to give it to the RG’s office, but instead we allocated them a permanent space in Zengeza 2, because our long-term plan as council is to build a proper structure in Zengeza.

“The other influencing factor for our choice is that Zengeza is a central place and is close to business centres, something that is conducive for a place that will be frequented by a lot of people,” said Kasu.

Mayor Lovemore Maiko said Chitungwiza is one of the most populous towns in the country and as such the proposed passport office will serve a very significant number of people.

-Dailynews

By A Correspondent- Former Ward 15 long-serving MDC councillor, Alderman Israel Mabaleka  (74) has died.  

He died yesterday at his house in Old Luveve suburb after battling diabetics for some time.

Ald Mabaleka, who was a councillor from 2000 to 2018 was described as a unifier and a hardworking man who had the people’s interests at heart.

His younger brother and family spokesperson Mr Justice Mabaleka said his brother was a senior citizen the community looked up to.

“It’s sad to come to terms with the fact that my brother has passed on. He was someone who listened to people’s complaints, a brother we all looked up to. He was our advisor, the one person we all turned to when in need and he knew how to help us,” he said.

Luveve MP, Stella Ndlovu echoed Mr Mabaleka’s sentiments saying Luveve had lost a great leader.

“Ald Mabaleka was a hard worker, a very responsible man. He once took over Ward 15 and 16 and he did tremendously well. He was equally available for both wards. He loved his people. Our Bulawayo is gone, our great shadow, we will never find someone like him, we will surely miss him,” she said.

The late alderman is survived by four children. Mourners are gathered at house number 3197 Old Luveve suburb.

-Statemedia