State Media|Diesel and petrol prices are likely to be more stable from now on after the Government reverted to specific excise duties on these two fuels and on paraffin.

This comes after several months of applying a percentage duty to ensure tax collections rose in line with inflation.

The switch implies that the Government is now reasonably certain that the high level of stability seen in the exchange rate over the last two months is likely to continue and that the Zimbabwean consumer can be given modest protection against fluctuations in world oil prices and a simpler tax structure applied to fuel prices.

In a statutory instrument gazetted on Wednesday, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube set the duty on petrol at $4,44 a litre and diesel and paraffin at $4,26 a litre.

Since the beginning of August the duty on petrol has been 45 percent and 40 percent on diesel and paraffin.

The percentages were applied to the landed cost of the fuels, that is the Zimbabwe dollar equivalent, at the interbank rate, of the cost of getting them into the country.

The new fixed charges are slightly under the duty figures used by the energy regulator, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), in its last price formula table and, so long as the exchange rate and world oil prices do not change, the prices of the three fuels could drop by a few cents per litre.

But the change will be tiny as the minister set his new specific taxes at very close to what his percentage duties were last producing.

Fuel imported under the permitted schemes to be legally sold retail in US dollars have attracted much higher taxes since the beginning of August, US$0,45 a litre for petrol and US$0,40 a litre for diesel and paraffin.

At present exchange rates those

duties translate to more than $7,24 for petrol and $6,44 for diesel and paraffin although the actual duties have to paid in US dollars under these schemes.

But this differential taxation is the main reason why fuel sold legally in US dollars is about 30 percent more expensive at current exchange rates than fuel sold in Zimbabwe dollars.

Despite high duties on petrol, the pump price is lower than that of diesel because it is blended with up to 20 percent anhydrous ethanol distilled in Zimbabwe’s Lowveld which brings down the landed price.

Otherwise the landed price is a combination of the crude oil price, refining charges, shipping charges to Beira, Beira port charges and the cost of using the Beira-Feruka pipeline. All these charges are in foreign currency.

The latest Zera table shows the landed cost of diesel at just under US$0,59 a litre and the petrol-ethanol blend price at just under US$0,55 a litre. These reflect the present low international oil prices.

Besides the landed cost converted at the interbank exchange rate, and the taxes, the Zera formula tables show the mark-ups allowed to the oil company, of around 10 percent, and to the service station that sells the fuel to motorists of around 12,5 percent.

For several years, Zimbabwe had specific duties on fuel.

In January these were raised significantly to cope with the serious cheating and illegal re-export of fuel.

They were reduced moderately a little later as the currency allocated to fuel switched from special allocations at 1-1 to interbank rate allocations from late May.

But in his mid-year fiscal review and supplementary budget, Minister Ncube switched to the percentage ad valorem taxes, explaining that he needed to follow inflation.

At that stage he was charging duties of $1,15 on petrol and $0,90 on diesel and paraffin and the switch to percentage taxes saw a jump in fuel prices.

Further jumps were recorded as the interbank exchange rate fell, sometimes sharply, before reaching a high level of stability in the last week of September this year with only marginal monthly falls since then.

The development comes as Government is working flat out to improve the fuel supply situation that worsened last week, resulting in winding queues at most service stations countrywide.

Energy and Power Development Minister Fortune Chasi on Tuesday attributed fuel supply bottlenecks to the rolling over of Letters of Credit (LCs).

LCs help reduce the payment risks on international trade transactions and allows a buyer’s bank to guarantee payment to a seller if certain criteria are met.

In view of the prevailing foreign currency shortages, the majority of companies depend on LCs for critical imports such as fuel, raw materials and equipment.

Said Minister Chasi: “There was an interruption last week regarding fuel because it coincided with a situation where there were efforts to roll-over the Letters of Credit, so that caused the queues that we began to see but the National Oil and Infrastructure Company (NOIC) has increased the pace at which it has been collecting fuel from Msasa and we asked them to work round the clock until the situation has been regularised.”

He said efforts were being made to ensure motorists did not spend long hours in queues.

By A Correspondent- Four Zimbabwean women have been effectively slapped with a 20-year jail term each after being intercepted in Mauritius with drugs (heroin) worth millions.

According to reports, the women had a combined 1,487 kg of heroin in their bellies, police sources in the Mauritian capital said on Thursday According to reports filtering in through social media, the four ladies were recruited and told to swallow the drugs for delivery in Mauritius. However, sharp-eyed customs officials at the Mauritius border post managed to notice something strange and a frisk search was conducted and ultimately revealed the internal drug bust.

It was also noted that the operation to recruit Zimbabweans for drug trafficking has become rampant and many people are now in the trade to try and escape the harsh conditions in Zimbabwe.

A Facebook post doing the rounds suggests that one of the arrested ladies has a 9 months old baby back in Zimbabwe. Allegedly, the four ladies did not have any legal representation or external help from their families who are oblivious of the happenings.

The lengthy Facebook post also mentioned the ladies had gone to Mauritius under the guise of going to a church conference and were all wearing the same T-shirt.”

These ladies were recruited by B******* T****** the woman I mentioned earlier. She is the one who organized these T-Shirts they are wearing and told them to lie to the custom that they were going to a Roman Catholic church function”, read the statement.

It was also further alleged that they swallowed the heroin but some of it was put in their bags. The poster made a plea with fellow Zimbabweans to see if anyone can recognize the girls and also how the Minister of Foreign Affairs had been approached to try and help

By A Correspondent| The man who announced Emmerson Mnangagwa’s firing from government 2 years ago, Simon Khaya Moyo, has complained saying the recently formed original ZANU PF party seeks to cause chaos in the country.

His comments came as the #TysonWabantu movement gathered steam with the announcement of a party labelled the original “ZANU PF.”

The Zanu-PF Secretary for Information and Publicity called on ZANU PF party members not to be swayed by the machinations of the so called “G40 cabal” meant to cause chaos in the country.

“The nauseating and misleading media reports that there is a party calling itself the ‘Zanu-PF Original’ is an insult to the values and ethos of our liberation struggle which ushered in our freedom and independence in 1980.

Our sovereignty did not come on a silver platter. Thousands perished, hundreds were maimed, livestock was looted, and property destroyed. The armed liberation struggle was led by the revolutionary Zanu-PF (Zanu Patriotic Front) party whose composition was the then Zanu and Zapu parties with their armed liberation armies, comprising Zanla and Zipra respectively. All negotiations were held under the banner of the Patriotic Front.

“The facts are clearly captured in the Unity Accord Agreement of 22 December 1987,” said Khaya Moyo.

He also condemned the reported formation of the “Zanu-PF Original.”

He said:
“The so-called Zimbabwe African National Unity PF (Original) never existed and the announcement of its existence and the announcement of its formation is a malignant dream driven by the G40 malcontents.

“The ruling revolutionary Zanu-PF party warns its leadership and membership to remain vigilant and protect the people’s party from political wolves whose major pre-occupation is to create chaos, alarm, despondency and instability in our beloved nation. The formation of this outfit must be dismissed with the contempt it deserves. Vigilance is the watchword.”

Farai Dziva|There are mixed sentiments on former Zanu PF Political Commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere’s perceived comeback.

Kasukuwere, a shrewd schemer, has indicated his intention to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa in what is likely to be an intriguing battle for political hegemony in Zimbabwe.

Respected political analyst Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya believes Kasukuwere’ s return is insignificant:

“Fellow Animals, it has been proven in Animal Farm that human beings are our enemies. Two legs bad, four legs good. How is Tyson different from the animals in Zanu PF in power today. Beware fellow animals, musanyepegwa.
Good morning from Johannesburg!

Why do I see ZANU PF hands all over Tyson project. These hybrid regimes are sophisticated…

Assuming that Tyson like many Zanu PF projects who came before him will not ‘return home’ on the eve of elections.

It could be a project to make sure Mugabe’s political orphans don’t join MDC and be delivered to Zanu PF at the appropriate time so beware @nelsonchamisa
and MDC,” argued Dr Ruhanya.

However, seasoned journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said:
@Hon_Kasukuwere’s political movement is a major headache for ZANUPF bcoz he is wildly popular within the ZANUPF youth ranks including young CIO officers who went through his youth programs!

ZANU PF will lose its rural monopoly splitting the vote bcoz Tyson understands the terrain…”

Farai Dziva|Former Zanu PF Political Commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere, has dismissed Deputy Information Minister Energy Mutodi’s claims that he neglected the farm he invaded at the height of the controversial land reform programme.

Mutodi has blamed former Zanu PF Political Commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere for the shortage of orange fruit in Zimbabwe as he invaded a productive farming that is now desolate.

This comes after the formation of Kasukuwere’s political movement that is likely to challenge Zanu PF in the 2023 polls.

“The nation is grappling with an acute shortage of orange fruit necessary to process Zimbabwe’s most popular family drink, Mazowe.

Interestingly, Saviour Kasukuwere is one of the farmers who took over a once flourishing citrus farm in Mazowe. The farm is now lying idle,” claimed Mutodi.

However, Kasukuwere said:”Pengera zvimwe, what are you up to? “

Writes Linda Masarira:

“DON’T LET ANYONE LOOK DOWN UPON YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE YOUNG, BUT SET AN EXAMPLE FOR THE BELIEVERS IN SPEECH, IN LIFE, IN FAITH AND IN PURITY.” 1 Timothy 4:12

I strongly believe that it is high time the youth of Zimbabwe rise up in their numbers and fight for their future. Zimbabwe’s youth have been side-lined in youth wings since time immemorial.

They should be afforded the opportunity to be part of the nation’s decision making processes. I see tremendous potential for leadership positions in young people.

The world today is dynamic and ever changing. It needs serious young people who are enthusiastic and energetic, undaunted by challenges and driven by their commitment to fight for justice to restore order and economic stability in Zimbabwe. (Extract from my prison diary 22-9-2016)

Returning to the drawing board after being led rather ruled by tired, old and clueless leaders and middle aged recycled politicians a collective of us realized that these rulers are now an isomorphic mimicry of the zanupf system.

We the collective, a group of trade unionists have formed Labbour Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD).

Enthusiasm, new way of looking at old problems, energy and persistence is needed to add to the wisdom gained through years of experience of the elder leaders.

Young people need to be part of national leadership, they need to feel valued and involved when their ideas and thoughts on critical issues are heard and recognized as part of the decision making process.

At LEAD we are nurturing the talents of young people by opening doors for engagements and involvement.

LEAD as led by a young President encourages contribution of young people in nation building and development for sustainability.

It is us the young people who should play a bigger role in political and civil leadership; not to just sit in committees, but to make decisions, set direction, get involved thereby bringing sanity new improved ideas.

I am inviting all young people with a vision for a better Zimbabwe who are willing to sacrifice their time to work for Zimbabwe to join the #PurpleRevolution.

Every generation has a mandate to fix problems created by the previous generation. We have a nation to fix and Zimbabwe needs you and me on the same page to fight corruption, marginalisation and e exclusion of youth and women in governance processes.

Dear Young Woman and man it is your time to LEAD. Join the LEADing team which is committed to bringing sustainable human development and e economic growth.

Together we can make Zimbabwe great again.

Linda T. Masarira
LEAD President

By A Correspondent- A Guruve man was accosted by irate ZANU PF supporters who took him to a police station after he was found walking with a dog “dressed” with a T-shirt bearing a picture of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s face.

The villager was identified as Robson Chininga, of Chininga village, Mudhindo in Guruve.

He was seized from Mudhindo Growth Point and taken to a police station where he paid admission of guilt fine of $40 after he was charged with disorderly conduct.

An unnamed police officer told a local publication:

We fined Chininga after angry Zanu PF supporters brought him to our base, hence we charged him with disorderly conduct and he paid an admission of guilt fine of $40.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The government has distanced itself from recent remarks made Deputy Defence Minister and ZANU PF political commissar Victor Matemadanda.

Justice Minister and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Ziyambi Ziyambi, told the Senate that Matemadanda is not a government spokesperson.

He said:

My response is that the government has one spokesperson which is the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.

Whatever Matemadanda said depends on which platform he said that but our Constitution gives him the right to say whatever he wants, but that is not official government channels or information signed by the Information minister.

Matemadanda claimed that human rights lawyer, Douglas Coltart was paying doctors at public health institutions to remain on strike.

Doctors have not been reporting for duty since September because of the measly salaries they were being paid and absence of tools of the trade such as drugs and gloves to use while performing their duties.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has refuted social media reports that there was a demonstration by police officers at the Support Unit Headquarters.

In a statement on Friday morning, the Police warned members of the public that those responsible for causing disharmony in the Police Service will have no one but themselves to blame if detected. The statement reads:

“The ZRP dismisses social media articles especially on WhatsApp and twitter which are being attributed to COZWVA that there was a demonstration at Support Unit HQ by police officers. That is false.”

Members of the public are warned against trying to cause division and disharmony in the Police Service. Those responsible will only have themselves to blame if detected.

By A Correspondent- President Mnangagwa has officially opened the second phase of the Varun Beverages manufacturing plant this afternoon.

The second phase was completed at a cost of US$20 million.

Of note, Mnangagwa appeared in public at the company without his “traditional” scarf for the first time in over two years.

The company reportedly employs over 1 000 people and has empowered more than 2 000 women as part of its community social responsibility.

Varun Beverages manufactures carbonated drinks which include Pepsi, Mirinda (all flavours) Mountain Dew and Seven Up.

Varun Beverages is the largest bottler of PepsiCo products —Pepsi, Mirinda, Mountain Dew and Seven Up outside the United States.

Zimbabwe’s market is dominated by Delta Corporation, which has been failing to meet local demand for beverages due to foreign currency shortages.

By A Correspondent- A Harare woman’s marriage has collapsed after being caught red-handed with a younger man.

Loveness Nyahwema, 37, and Stephen Mupfurutsa were paraded to residents after being caught around midnight last Friday in South lea Park.

Nyahwema was married to Alois Mugomba, 40, as the first wife in a polygamous union and the two have four children. Mugomba, following a tip-off, returned from night duty and forced the door open to catch the two in bed in the same room with their four-year-old child.

After the incident, Nyahwema and Mupfurutsa are now living together at his sister Edeline’s house in Stoneridge.

“It is no secret that I had two wives, but on the day in question I was at work on night duty when I received a call informing me about Mupfurutsa’s visit to my house during the night,” said Mugomba.

“People had been telling me about the infidelity, but I did not believe them until the tip-off. “I did not assault them or allow neighbors to attack them, but I ordered her to pack her belongings and leave my house.

“She packed and I took her to Mupfurutsa’s sister house, where they are now living together as husband and wife.

“The two decided to take our two minor children leaving the other two saying that they were the ones who exposed their shenanigans.

“She took all the household property we had and Mupfurutsa signed an agreement that he would take my first wife as his wife and his sister agreed to accommodate them and my children at her house,” said Mugomba.

Edeline confirmed the incident, saying Mugomba and Nyahwema were on separation when the two were caught. She condemned the attack on Mupfurutsa after being caught with the woman as cruel.

“I am now living with Nyahwema and she is now my brother’s wife; they were attacked by Mugomba,” said Edeline. Mugomba separated with Nyahwema some time ago and is angry because he is paying maintenance, that is why he came at midnight to attack my brother.

We did not argue with him after he caught them in bed, but honestly speaking, Nyahwema is a bit older than my brother.

“Akatomanikidzwa kurora mukadzi ane vana four iye haasati ave nemwana achiri mukomana. “We had no choice, after all I knew this woman from church,” said Edeline. Nyahwema and Mupfurutsa refused to entertain.

-H-Metro

Letter to the Editor

There is a child aged 14 (name with held) i know who is practising homosexuality on his fellow boarders at a school called Selukwe Primary School, in Shurugwi.

The Headmistress Mrs Machimbira however insists that she has everything under control and defends the boy becuase he is related to her.

This boy however has been expelled from several other schools including Bondolfi and Gokomere.

It is alleged that other staff members at the school have also made an effort to deal with the matter to no avail as this boy is protected by the headmistress.

The boy’s father is a prominent business man somewhere is Masvingo and the mother is a teacher in Rutenga.

The boy is said to take other boys and he practices sexual acts with them and then also touches girls private parts.

My plea is for other children who have been molested by this boy. and also for him to get assistance.

How can this issue be addressed ? Please help these children.

ANGRY Zanu PF supporters in Guruve on Saturday effected a citizen’s arrest on a villager last week who dressed his dog in a T-shirt that had the face of President Emmerson Mnangagwa in front of it.

Robson Chininga, of Chininga village, Mudhindo in Guruve, was mobbed by Zanu PF supporters, who were angered by his actions after seeing him walking with a dog dressed in the ruling party regalia at Mudhindo Growth Point.

A police source said the mob took Chininga to a police base where he paid an admission of guilty fine of $40 after being charged with disorderly conduct in a public place.

“We fined Chininga after angry Zanu PF supporters brought him to our base, hence we charged him with disorderly conduct and he paid an admission of guilty fine of $40,” the source said.

Mashonaland Central police spokesperson Inspector Milton Mundembe could not be reached for comment.

By Own Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially opened the new look canteen at the Zanu PF HQ.

The canteen will now be operated by the Women’s league and has been refurbished and fitted with modern equipment to ensure the provision. of quality food for customers.

MASVINGO – Workers in Masvingo CBD are having to drive to the outskirts of town to use the bush as the water crisis has left the toilets clogged and therefore shut.
Because Masvingo is a fairly small city other workers just walk across to the fringes and this is a posing a serious health hazard.

Masvingo City’s water supplies have worsened with tapes running dry for two to three consecutive days even in the CBD where population concentration is highest.
Other cities are avoiding such a problem by ensuring that the CBD’s are always supplied with water.

Masvingo City acting health services director, Ngonidzashe Mapamule said they don’t encourage people to use the bush as it is against Government policy on health. He said they expect people to store enough water for use when there is no running.

“We used to sneak to Chicken Inn or Chicken Slice to relieve ourselves since they have water tanks but for the past three months they would not allow the public to use their toilets only reserving them for their patrons holding receipts of purchases,” said a middle aged man who works for a real estate company.

“Women are the most affected especially during menstruation. It’s a messy and unhealthy business. The crisis has hit the bottom,” said Cynthia Murefu who works for an electric appliances company at ZimPost complex.

Masvingo City Mayor Collen Maboke said as long as there is load shedding the water crisis will be a permanent problem.

MasvingoMirror

Farai Dziva|Respected political analyst Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya has warned MDC leader Nelson Chamisa against joining hands with former Zanu PF Political Commissar Saviour Tyson Kasukuwere.

Kasukuwere, a shrewd schemer, has indicated his intention to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa in what is likely to be an intriguing battle for political hegemony in Zimbabwe.

Dr Ruhanya believes Kasukuwere’ s return is insignificant:

“Fellow Animals, it has been proven in Animal Farm that human beings are our enemies. Two legs bad, four legs good. How is Tyson different from the animals in Zanu PF in power today. Beware fellow animals, musanyepegwa.
Good morning from Johannesburg!

Why do I see ZANU PF hands all over Tyson project. These hybrid regimes are sophisticated…

Assuming that Tyson like many Zanu PF projects who came before him will not ‘return home’ on the eve of elections.

It could be a project to make sure Mugabe’s political orphans don’t join MDC and be delivered to Zanu PF at the appropriate time so beware @nelsonchamisa
and MDC,” argued Dr Ruhanya.

However, seasoned journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said:
@Hon_Kasukuwere’s political movement is a major headache for ZANU PF bcoz he is wildly popular within the ZANUPF youth ranks including young CIO officers who went through his youth programs!

ZANU PF will lose its rural monopoly splitting the vote bcoz Tyson understands the terrain…”

Police have initiated investigations on the reports of the machete wielding gangs that are seen in videos that have gone viral killing and terrorising some citizens.

Said Energy Mutodi, “Rogue elements going around terrorizing people with machetes and  other weapons have caught the concern of the government. Following media reports on gruesome murders of victims, police will enforce the law and bring the culprits to book.”

Commenting one, Brighton Musonza said the problem in Zimbabwe was that the government was failing to call the criminals with their right terms and protected them as artisan miners.

“Problem Energy Mutodi is that government has a policy of describing those machetes wielding scums as artisanal miners when they are real life-taking scumbag murderers belonging to Henrietta Rushwaya’s terrorist groups. And the President had a conference with them last month in Gweru.”

“Between the months of August and October a total of 105 murder cases have been recorded in mining areas surrounding Kadoma while 221 cases of assault have been recorded,” says the report.

Senior government officials have been implicated as behind the machete violence menace with Mnangagwa’s top lieutenant and State Security minister Owen Ncube being fingered in the bloody wars.

Ncube is famous in the artisanal mining circles and at the recently convened Zimbabwe Miners Federation annual conference in Gweru, Ncube was received with a thunderous ovation by the small-scale miners when he entered the venue at Gweru Convention Centre.

Director of ceremonies, Joseph Nhara, had a torrid time trying to bring the miners to order as they shouted Ncube’s nicknames “Third Bomber,” “Mudha” and “Touch Bomba”.

Bulawayo 24

State Media|Twelve suspected land barons in Harare accused of duping desperate home seekers and illegally selling land have been arrested as police intensify its operation targeted at weeding out illegal sales.

National Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the on-going operation in a statement.

“Police have stepped up investigations on all reported cases of fraud involving illegal sale of land in Harare. This has seen a lot of suspects from different housing cooperatives being arrested and taken to court,” said Asst Comm Nyathi

“From Vanhuvatema Housing Co-operative those who were arrested are: Andrew Mugomezi (35), and Tendai Mutukwa (36 years). One suspect is now deceased while two are still at large.

“Those from Epworth Mission Development Trust are Robert Tinaye Chihota (70), Stanford Shadreck Nyemba (72), David Stanley Chidenga (75) and Thomas Musandiri (67) who were all denied bail.”

He said those who were arrested from Pungwe Chimurenga Housing Cooperative are Conciliar Dzitiro (55), Wellington Ngenje (35), Privilege Murebwa (36) and Blessing Matwaya (30), while Jaricha Edmon (56) and Jane Mabota (66) from Hannah Housing Co-operative were also arrested.

Asst Comm Nyathi said the operation targeting land barons is an ongoing exercise and urged members of the public who were duped to immediately approach the police for help.

“This operation is an on-going exercise targeting land barons who have been duping unsuspecting desperate people. We also urge members of the public who were duped by any land baron to go to the nearest police station immediately and make a report,” he said .

He assured the public that police will not rest until all those involved in illegally selling land are brought to book.

“We are also aware that some of the suspects will try to resist arrest. We are urging them to comply with the police as the operation continues.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police assures members of the public that the law will certainly take its course on anyone who is involved in criminal acts of pegging, parcelling out land and offering it to people fraudulently,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.

He said home seekers should approach relevant local authority offices, Government departments and institutions to acquire land through the correct channels.

A FORENSIC audit on the 2014 African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region V Under-20 Youth Games hosted in Bulawayo has unearthed massive financial impropriety involving over US$5 million, with senior government officials and members of the security forces among those fingered in corrupt deals.

The report, dated March 13, 2018, shows that millions of dollars could have been embezzled through poor financial management, excessive pricing, non-delivery of goods and services, substandard works, contract incompetency, payment to dormant shelf companies, fraud and other various corrupt deals.

NewsDay is in possession of the report compiled by Deloitte, which shows that the government availed US$17 733 566 for sport infrastructure refurbishment and other operational expenses for the games.

However, a huge chunk of that money was allegedly misappropriated or abused.

All the corruption and embezzlement of the funds happened under then Sports minister Andrew Langa, who lost his ministerial post the following year.

Langa had initially set a budget of US$46 million for the preparations and hosting of the games, but government availed $17 million.

He claimed after the games that the sporting facilities had been refurbished to meet international standards.

The hosting of the games required refurbishment of Barbourfields, Luveve and White City stadiums, Bulawayo Athletic Club (BAC), Bulawayo Swimming Pool and the Games Village at Hillside Teachers College as well as the procurement of ancillary equipment, goods and services.

But the government was not satisfied with the workmanship in relation to amounts paid and owing to contractors for work that had been done.

The government in May 2016 then requested that a forensic audit be done on the AUSC Games, which has since unearthed massive corruption.

The corrupt deals included awarding of contracts to companies without following tender procedures.
Raising eyebrows was the awarding of contracts to Drawcard Enterprises and Gimtrac for the rehabilitation of sports infrastructure to the tune of US$1 179 993,49 and US$2 091 040, respectively, without adhering to tender requirements.

Hillary Mukaratirwa, the director architectural services in the Local Government, Public Works and National Housing ministry, said they awarded contracts to the two companies without going to tender “due to the limited time before the commencement of the games”.

Drawcard’s work included the laying of a tartan track at the White City Stadium. But the report noted that they did a shoddy job and 300m of the track requires relaying and over US$1 million is needed to redo the job.

Three other companies; Olimas Engineering, Nextchir Construction and Asphalt Products, were also awarded contracts worth thousands of dollars, without meeting tender requirements. Inevitably, they either failed to do the job completely or did substandard work.

Olimas Engineering got a contract for US$214 923 for the installation of the heating system at Bulawayo Swimming Pool and years after the games, the system is non-functional.
The report also shows that there were companies on the creditors’ schedule, who were not owed as they were either paid in full or did not supply goods or services. Five suppliers with a total claim of US$7 968 appeared on the schedule.

Fifteen suppliers with invoices amounting to US$96 450 could not be located, with most of them having ceased operations or were “unknown at the given addresses”.

Local organising committee (Loc) chief accountant David Mubariki could not explain the reasons for the existence of the entities on the list.

The list also showed that there were claims of unpaid travel and subsistence allowances for Loc officials. A total of US$ 317 305 in allowances owed could not be substantiated through appropriate documentation such as authorised claim forms. There was no documentation detailing to whom these allowances were due.

The Loc officials were accused of increasing their daily allowances without following due process. Treasury set the daily allowance for bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner at a total US$55 a person, but the officials were paying themselves US$150 instead.

Instances of poor financial management and weak internal control resulted in the payment for goods valued at US$2 216 328 without appropriate documentation such as internal requisitions, three quotations and purchase orders. An amount of US$131 825 was withdrawn from one of the Loc FBC Bank account, but could not be traced to payment vouchers.

“The use of cash increases the risk of misappropriation and/or theft. US$131 825,91 cannot be traced to payment vouchers indicative of an expenditure unaccounted for,” the report reads.
The report also showed that some companies could have over-priced their goods and services to reap off Loc.

“We examined the CMED claim amounting to US$293 691. We noted that CMED charged a rate of US$1 503 per day for a rental of a Mercedes Benz minibus for the duration of 19 days. The rate used should have been US$150 per day, which would have been consistent with the other CMED invoices for a vehicle of a similar size. The creditors amount of US$293 691 is overstated by US$25 707.”

It is alleged that at least over US$1 million was diverted towards projects not related to the games and the amount was never recovered.

“We examined the IDBZ Bank statement and noted a payment of US$1 000 000 to China Nanchang Engineering for works on Mutange and Tokwe Mukosi dams. The instruction letter was issued by Fidelis Ngorora, director (public sector investment programme) in the Finance and Economic Development ministry. According to the letter, Treasury was to repay the money during the same week it was diverted. As at the reporting date, the money had not been repaid,” read the report
Loc also received goods and services amounting to US$114 613 after the closure of the games on December 14. The goods included beds, play station consoles, shoes, printers, television sets, sports regalia and other consumables. The beds were given to Hillside Teachers College. It could not be ascertained how the other items were distributed.

The auditors complained that they faced difficulties in accessing records, including the games asset register.

“Based on our observations, the quality of workmanship at numerous locations was not commensurate with the expenditure incurred. Games sites are still incomplete and have not been officially handed over to the Local Government Public Works and National Housing ministry, as such they have not been maintained since the completion of the games.”

Own Correspondent|The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has refuted social media reports that there was a demonstration by police officers at the Support Unit Headquarters.

In a statement on Friday morning, the Police warned members of the public that those responsible for causing disharmony in the Police Service will have no one but themselves to blame if detected. The statement reads:

“The ZRP dismisses social media articles especially on WhatsApp and twitter which are being attributed to COZWVA that there was a demonstration at Support Unit HQ by police officers. That is false.”

Members of the public are warned against trying to cause division and disharmony in the Police Service. Those responsible will only have themselves to blame if detected.

Paul Nyathi|President Mnangagwa has officially opened the second phase of the Varun Beverages manufacturing plant this afternoon.

The second phase was completed at a cost of US$20 million.

Of note, Mnangagwa appeared in public at the company without his “traditional” scarf for the first time in over two years.

The company reportedly employs over 1 000 people and has empowered more than 2 000 women as part of its community social responsibility.

Varun Beverages manufactures carbonated drinks which include Pepsi, Mirinda (all flavours) Mountain Dew and Seven Up.

Varun Beverages is the largest bottler of PepsiCo products —Pepsi, Mirinda, Mountain Dew and Seven Up outside the United States.

Zimbabwe’s market is dominated by Delta Corporation, which has been failing to meet local demand for beverages due to foreign currency shortages.

See pictures below:

By A Correspondent- There is no such thing as “age appropriate” when it comes to domestic violence. Indeed, it is a growing problem among older couples, but it is not always taken seriously.

An 82-year-old granny proved that when she opened up, saying she was a victim of years of violence and emotional abuse at the hands of her elderly husband.

Speaking about her “volatile” 54-year marriage to Elias Mlilo, Gogo Malinda Mlilo from Esigodini told how she thought every night could be her last.

Gogo Malinda told how her husband who is supposed to love her the most would frequently physically attack her, often picking up whatever was at hand to use as a weapon, including his walking stick.

She claimed barely a day went by without her husband beating her up or shouting at her while complaining about her cooking and housekeeping.

Gogo Malind, who apparently considered abuse to be something that happened to younger women, bared her soul at the Bulawayo Civil Court where she was seeking a restraining order against her husband.

Elias Mlilo is my husband and we got married in 1965. He is physically, verbally and psychologically abusing me. He is always shouting abuse at me for no apparent reason. Because of his abuse I honestly thought each night could be my last.

“He raises his voice if he can’t account for any small item in the house. He also shouts at me in front of our neighbours,” Gogo Malinda shared her horrifying story amid sobs.

She said her husband was always berating her, calling her a “useless woman”. She further said her husband was also possessive as he was in the habit of “timing” her trips outside home.

In response Khulu Elias said his wife was also abusing him.

“The problem I have with my wife is that she does not listen to me. She is also abusing me. She also disappears from home for some days and when I ask her where she has been, she starts shouting at me.

“Another problem is that I don’t know what she wants in life. She goes to church and consults prophets and traditional healers too. That is where all our problems are emanating from,” said Khulu Elias.

For the purpose of maintaining peace between the two parties presiding magistrate Adelaide Mbeure granted a reciprocal order which compels the elderly couple not to abuse each other.

Meanwhile, the nation joined the World in marking 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GVB). The annual campaign kicked off on 25 November and is running until 10 December under the theme: Orange the World: Generation Equality Against Rape. The campaign seeks to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the World.

-StateMedia

By Wilbert Mukori- Yes, on the issue of political dialogue between Mnangagwa and Nelson Chamisa, Zimbabwe’s church leaders have been divided into two groups. What is important to note here is that the two groups differ on the trial matters but NOT on the substantive matters.

“In generally the first group falls under the internationally aligned Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) which has four main arms that is Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference (ZCBC), Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) and Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe (UDACIZA),” explained Terence Simbi in Bulawayo 24.

“The second grouping is the African indigenous Churches (AIC) composed of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), Vapositori sects, Family of God Church and others all with origins within the country and Africa hence the indigenous title.

“The ZHOCH came up with the sabbatical proposal to suspend democratic elections for 7 years to cool down political tensions in the country.

“This AIC had a different message stressing on the importance of adhering to the countries institutions thus for national dialogue to commence the leader of the main opposition has to first recognise the ruling of the constitutional court and the presidency of Emmerson Mnangagwa.”

Simbi’s analysis is correct but shallow and thus misses the real substantive issues here. Both groups are calling for Mnangagwa and Chamisa to hold the dialogue. Whilst the AIC are demanding that Chamisa endorse Mnangagwa as the dually elected president of Zimbabwe and thus endorse last year’s elections as having been free, fair and credible. 

ZHOCH group also calls for the same dialogue but are a bit more introspective and subtle in that they do not ask for Chamisa to endorse last year’s elections as having been free, fair and credible. 

What matters here is that by calling for the two gentlemen to meet and dialogue the two groups are per se endorsing the two as key players in defining the country’s way out of the mess. Whether Mnangagwa was legitimate or not at the start of the dialogue is a mute but irrelevant point. 

The substantive issue here is that Zimbabwe is in this existential economic and political mess because the country has been stuck with this corrupt, incompetent and murderous Zanu PF dictatorship for the last 39 years. The nation could not remove the regime from office between it rigged elections. 

Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF cronies are in power today because they rigged last year’s elections. Zimbabwe is still a pariah state ruled by the same corrupt and vote rigging thugs. Nothing, absolutely nothing has changed. 

ZHOCH group’s position is not to endorse the Zanu PF regime as legitimate but to nonetheless let the party remain in power or be it in some power sharing arrangement with MDC. The new government will be dominated by Zanu PF given its 2/3 majority in parliament and senate, for example; it will still be a Zanu PF government is all but name. 

AIC group’s position is a lot more honest in that they acknowledge the end product of the dialogue will be a Zanu PF government and want that acknowledged from the word go. 

When Mnangagwa took over from Mugabe following the November 2017 military coup he promised his “new dispensation, Second Republic” would hold “free, fair and credible elections”. No doubt he was painfully aware of the blatant betrayal of the Mugabe era on this front and the tragic consequences. 

Mnangagwa did not keep his promise, he blatantly rigged last year’s elections. Zimbabwe is a pariah state, the Second Republic is no different from the First Republic! What a hypocrite!

Jesus Christ’s mission was to “tell the blind that they were blind no more and to set the downtrodden free!” Our church leaders should therefore be the champions of the downtrodden, those living in on US$40 per month or less, those dying dying of easily treatable diseases, etc. all because the nation is stuck for 39 years with a corrupt and tyrannical regime. 

All Zimbabweans should be speaking with one united voice in demanding free, fair and credible elections, as the only sure way to achieve good governance and to end the devastating economic meltdown.

How ironic that the church leaders, the very individual championing the cause of the downtrodden are the ones hobnobbing with the corrupt and tyrannical politicians at the expense of the oppressed. What hypocrites!

If you look from Mnangagwa to Mutendi and back, from Chiwenga to Wutaunashe and back or from Mugabe to Father Fidelis Mukonori SJ and back; you will see any difference between each pair. It’s because they are all hypocrites.

They are all …….jack a**** (Good manners is a luxury the hundreds dying unnecessarily everyday can ill afford! The crude language will help convey the frustration, the seriousness and the urgency of this tragic situation.)

Farai Dziva|Respected political analyst Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya has warned MDC leader Nelson Chamisa against joining hands with former Zanu PF Political Commissar Saviour Tyson Kasukuwere.

Kasukuwere, a shrewd schemer, has indicated his intention to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa in what is likely to be an intriguing battle for political hegemony in Zimbabwe.

Dr Ruhanya believes Kasukuwere’ s return is insignificant:

“Fellow Animals, it has been proven in Animal Farm that human beings are our enemies. Two legs bad, four legs good. How is Tyson different from the animals in Zanu PF in power today. Beware fellow animals, musanyepegwa.
Good morning from Johannesburg!

Why do I see ZANU PF hands all over Tyson project. These hybrid regimes are sophisticated…

Assuming that Tyson like many Zanu PF projects who came before him will not ‘return home’ on the eve of elections.

It could be a project to make sure Mugabe’s political orphans don’t join MDC and be delivered to Zanu PF at the appropriate time so beware @nelsonchamisa
and MDC,” argued Dr Ruhanya.

However, seasoned journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said:
@Hon_Kasukuwere’s political movement is a major headache for ZANU PF bcoz he is wildly popular within the ZANUPF youth ranks including young CIO officers who went through his youth programs!

ZANU PF will lose its rural monopoly splitting the vote bcoz Tyson understands the terrain…”

Farai Dziva|Respected journalist, Hopewell Chin’ono says former Zanu PF Political Commissar Saviour Tyson Kasukuwere’s political movement is a “thorn in the flesh” for the ruling party.

Kasukuwere, a shrewd schemer, has indicated his intention to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa in what is likely to be an intriguing battle for political hegemony in Zimbabwe.

However, another political observer Pedzisai Ruhanya believes Kasukuwere’ s return is insignificant:

“Fellow Animals, it has been proven in Animal Farm that human beings are our enemies. Two legs bad, four legs good. How is Tyson different from the animals in Zanu PF in power today. Beware fellow animals, musanyepegwa.
Good morning from Johannesburg!

Why do I see ZANU PF hands all over Tyson project. These hybrid regimes are sophisticated…

Assuming that Tyson like many Zanu PF projects who came before him will not ‘return home’ on the eve of elections.

It could be a project to make sure Mugabe’s political orphans don’t join MDC and be delivered to Zanu PF at the appropriate time so beware @nelsonchamisa
and MDC,” said Dr Ruhanya.

However, Chin’ono argued:
@Hon_Kasukuwere’s political movement is a major headache for ZANU PF bcoz he is wildly popular within the ZANU PF youth ranks including young CIO officers who went through his youth programs!

ZANU PF will lose its rural monopoly splitting the vote bcoz Tyson understands the terrain…”

Farai Dziva|There are mixed sentiments on former Zanu PF Political Commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere’s comeback.

Kasukuwere, a shrewd schemer, has indicated his intention to take on Emmerson Mnangagwa in what is likely to be an intriguing battle for political hegemony in Zimbabwe.

Respected political analyst Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya believes Kasukuwere’ s return is insignificant:

“Fellow Animals, it has been proven in Animal Farm that human beings are our enemies. Two legs bad, four legs good. How is Tyson different from the animals in Zanu PF in power today. Beware fellow animals, musanyepegwa.
Good morning from Johannesburg!

Why do I see ZANU PF hands all over Tyson project. These hybrid regimes are sophisticated…

Assuming that Tyson like many Zanu PF projects who came before him will not ‘return home’ on the eve of elections.

It could be a project to make sure Mugabe’s political orphans don’t join MDC and be delivered to Zanu PF at the appropriate time so beware @nelsonchamisa
and MDC,” argued Dr Ruhanya.

However, seasoned journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said:
@Hon_Kasukuwere’s political movement is a major headache for ZANUPF bcoz he is wildly popular within the ZANUPF youth ranks including young CIO officers who went through his youth programs!

ZANU PF will lose its rural monopoly splitting the vote bcoz Tyson understands the terrain…”

Farai Dziva|Controversial Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi has blamed former Zanu PF Political Commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere for the shortage of orange fruit in Zimbabwe as he invaded a productive farming that is now desolate.

This comes after the formation of Kasukuwere’s political movement that is likely to challenge Zanu PF in the 2023 polls.

“The nation is grappling with an acute shortage of orange fruit necessary to process Zimbabwe’s most popular family drink, Mazowe.

Interestingly, Saviour Kasukuwere is one of the farmers who took over a once flourishing citrus farm in Mazowe. The farm is now lying idle,” claimed Mutodi.

By A Correspondent| Opposition member of parliament for Glenview North Kennedy Dina (Friday) officially opened a borehole for residents in his constituency.

The development comes as water remains a challenge for urban residents posing a huge risk for the transmission of water borne diseases as the rainy season is fast approaching.

Below are more pictures of the event…

By A Correspondent| The Zimbabwe Republic Police would like to confirm a missing child in Hatfield who was found dumped at a house in Mbare on Wednesday,” said Ass Insp Dzvova.

“Circumstances were that a Hatfield 53-year-old woman spread a message to her neighbours and friends about her intention to employ a house maid.

“One of the women Esnath Benado. who does part time jobs in Hatfield learnt about it and informed Vimbai who started her job on Sunday.

“Two days after resuming her duties Vimbai disappeared with the child, electrical gadgets and clothes after her employer had left for work.

“Upon returning from work, the employer found the child, electrical goods and clothes missing. The child was found on Wednesday in Mbare.

“Police investigations are underway and information received so far indicates that Vimbai had arranged with her lover to steal from her employer and had no intention of disappearing with the child.

“As police, we are urging people to take anyone they intend to employ for finger prints at our police stations to check for any criminal records.

“Police are there to help employers with information regarding the person they would want to employ to avoid such incidents,” said Ass Insp Dzvova.

Founder of women empowerment group, Mama Prenuers, Memory Mugabe yesterday urged would-be employers to be thorough before recruiting domestic workers.

“We urge people to have a thorough research on the maid(s) and their background before they employ them.

“They should get hold of their identification card (ID) or at least a photocopy of their ID.

“They should also try and get to know at least one relative or friend of theirs just in case something happens they know where to start or trace from when something goes wrong.

“Always to engage reliable sources or agents when employing a maid,” she said.

-StateMedia

An armed member of the Presidential Guard has been arrested for committing a spate of robberies in the Masasa mining area in Mazowe last month.

The matter came to light at the Bindura Magistrates Courts yesterday where the suspect, Brighton Chizororo (30) of Chirwadzise village, Chief Ndanga in Masvingo appeared before magistrate Ethel Chichera facing robbery charges.

Chizororo pleaded not guilty to the charges and was remanded in custody to December 10 for trial.

Prosecutor Tariro Janhi alleged that on November 24, Chizororo and his accomplice only identified as Buju, who is still at large, armed themselves with an AK47 assault rifle, serial number ZA31605, loaded with 11 rounds, and a syjambok before storming Masasa Mine.

Upon arrival, the pair waylaid unsuspecting miners Chrispen Mahere (40) and Munyaradzi Masusu. Buju moved behind the miners wielding a syjambok while Chizororo pointed the rifle at them.

He cocked the rifle while ordering them to lie down and they complied.

He then allegedly demanded cash and was given $500 before ordering the miners to run from the scene.

The accused moved to another gold claim where they met Anold Chomusina (23) Maccani Mapiriyawo whom they robbed US$20 using the same modus operandi.

However, the miners teamed up after their misfortune and pursued the robbers. They caught up with Chizororo, disarmed him while his accomplice varnished into darkness.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Hlanganiso Mokwena has a hard time finding relish for his evening meals as his vegetable garden is a no no as his naughty neighbour “waters” it by shamelessly urinating on it.

According to Mokwena, who resides at Mpopoma flats, all this started after he had a trivial spat with Webster Masikati which degenerated into harsh exchange of unprintable words.

They later kissed and made up. At least that’s what Mokwena thought.
Masikati had other ideas as he had no thought of burying the hatchet. Literally taking a piss in Mokwena’s vegetable garden seemed to be his best revenge mechanism.

Mokwena, who could not stomach going more days without harvesting from his garden, dragged Masikati to Western Commonage Courts, where he revealed all the repugnant details of his golden shower war with the neighbour from hell.

“Masikati is in the habit of urinating in my vegetable garden. Life is very hard and I rely on my garden for relish so it breaks my heart to see Masikati urinating there every day,” Mokwena told the court.

Mokwena further revealed that besides urinating, Masikati has tendencies of stomping and jumping up and down in his garden.

“Masikati resides at the flat’s upper floor and I stay on the ground floor. He usually jumps from upstairs to my vegetables.

When he lands, he will jump up and down just to make sure he destroys my vegetables. The respondent also dumps his garbage in my yard. May the court assist me so that the respondent shows me respect? He must not urinate or jump in my vegetable garden”, said Mokwena.

In his defence, Masikati flipped the cards and said Mokwena was the disrespectful one.

“All that Mokwena said is incorrect. In fact the truth is he is the one who does not respect all the occupants of the flat as he acts as if he owns the place.

In his ruling, magistrate, Urgent Vundla ordered Masikati to desist from insulting and emotionally abusing Mokwena and to stay clear of Mokwena’s garden

-StateMedia

ZANU PF Bulawayo province is holding a fundraising event in the city tomorrow as it races against time to raise funds for the party’s annual people’s conference in Goromonzi next week.

Southern Eye has established that Zanu PF’s fundraising committee in the city is having sleepless nights as the party’s usual targets, private companies, have declared incapacitation to fund them.

Each province is expected to raise at least $500 000 to mainly feed Zanu PF delegates attending the conference.

Last week, chairperson of the Bulawayo fundraising committee Charles Chiponda claimed that the province had raised as much as 30% to 40% of their required budget.

But spokesperson of the fundraising committee Khumbulani Mpofu in an interview yesterday said the going has been tough for them with targeted traditional donors only making unfulfilled promises.

“We have traditional donors who we are targeting, but we are racing against time. As at present, they are just giving us promises since, as you know, the situation is difficult for many companies. It’s tough, but we are positive that some traditional donors will come through even at the last minute and assist,” Mpofu said.

In the past, the ruling party was accused of coercing some private companies to donate towards its conferences and other activities.

There have also been reports of some party activists taking advantage of the fundraising drive to divert donations for personal use.

In 2015, Zanu PF youth district chairpersons ousted their provincial executive – then led by Mpofu who is the current fundraising committee chairperson – on charges of corruption and using the party name to extort struggling companies of monies, groceries and fuel, which they later shared among themselves.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- A Bulawayo woman shocked the court when she revealed that she no longer wants to live with her husband because he cannot have sex with her as he suffers from erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction is defined as persistent difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection sufficient to have sex.

Sinanzeni Moyo and Wilson Muleyani of Emthunzini no longer have peace in their home after Muleyani had his manhood allegedly “locked” by his girlfriend.

For Moyo, what is most heart rending is that Muleyani can only get it up for girlfriend.

“He does not get an erection when with me but when he goes to his girlfriend his manhood functions properly. We have tried seeking help from traditional healers but all has been in vain.

Due to the fact that he can’t have sex with me he now secretly brings his girlfriend to our house when I am not around. I no longer want to stay with him, so at the moment I stay with neighbours,” said Moyo.

Moyo also revealed that whenever Muleyani fails to get an erection he gets frustrated and assaults her.

“When he fails to get an erection he beats me up and insults me. The most painful thing is that his manhood was locked by his girlfriend and so I do not understand why he beats me up for his erectile dysfunction. I am afraid of him because he gets most violent after drinking and smoking,” said Moyo.

In response Muleyani said he always asks for forgiveness from his wife yet she doesn’t want to forgive.

“I asked for forgiveness from my wife for everything I’ve done but she still prefers to stay with our neighbours.”

In his ruling Western Commonage magistrate Urgent Vundla ordered Muleyani to refrain from abusing Moyo.

-StateMedia

The current bank exchange rates for the ZWL$ today are as follows:

• USD to ZWL$: 16.3623 [05/12/19]
• ZWL$ to RAND: 0.8915 [05/12/19]

Data according to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe

Black Market Rates:

• USD to ZWL$ zimrates.com 23.30
• USD to ZWL$  zwl365.com 23.10 [05/12/19]
• USD to ZWL$ bluemari.info 23.20
• USD to BOND: zimrates.com 17

More: marketwatch.co.zw

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has given his wife, Marry, until Friday, December 6, to leave their matrimonial home in Borrowdale, ZimLive understands.

The retired army general furiously cut ties his wife in July after a hospital bedside row in South Africa as he battled a mystery illness.

Marry, a former model and ex-wife of footballer Shingi Kawondera, was forced to return home as Chiwenga was flown to China where he received lengthy treatment before returning home on November 23.

Chiwenga has not been home to see Marry or their children after moving into their other property in Chisipite, from where he has been plotting his divorce.

Sources say a day after returning home, on November 24, the vice president sent an emissary to serve Marry with “gupuro” – a traditional Shona divorce token, typically a coin.

The couple were customarily married in 2011. The marriage is recognised under Zimbabwean law but carries complexities which notoriously bring grief to widows. Marry reportedly drew Chiwenga’s ire when she asked for a Marriage Act (Chapter 5:11) union as the 63-year-old battled for his life in a Pretoria hospital.

Chiwenga, who suspects that he was poisoned, reportedly told aides he feared his wife may have had a hand in his illness and accused her of infidelity.

Shortly after returning home, Chiwenga called in Harare lawyer Wilson Manase to finalise his separation.

Manase, while confirming Chiwenga was his client, declined to comment.

Court officials said the lawyer’s first move had been to obtain a gag order from a judge to officially conceal the file relating to Chiwenga’s divorce.

A letter was then delivered to the 36-year-old Marry directing her to vacate the property and leave behind their two children together – a boy and a girl aged eight and seven. The couple had been living with two other children, a boy and a girl, from Marry’s previous marriage.

A source close to the developments said Marry had also called her lawyers to fight the intended eviction, which follows a familiar script. Chiwenga divorced his first wife, Jocelyn, in 2010 to clear the path for his marriage to Marry.

Jocelyn was evicted from the matrimonial home and also had soldiers sent by Chiwenga – then the commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces – to kick her out of their farm in Shamva.

Marry, currently battling poor health herself, was not answering calls on Thursday and had not responded to messages left on her mobile phone.

George Charamba, the presidential spokesman, said: “I don’t get into people’s private relationships or homes. Sorry, I can’t help.”

Zimlive

By A Correspondent- A 19-year-old man from Bulawayo’s New Luveve suburb allegedly punched his stepmother with clenched fists several times after being questioned for stealing potatoes and money.

Barba Kayuva had a misunderstanding with her son, Jabulani Sithole, over stolen potatoes and money.

“I had a misunderstanding with my son after suspecting that he took advantage of my unlocked bedroom and stole some potatoes and $30 (bond),” said Kayuva.

It is reported that Sithole got angry after a misunderstanding with his mother.

“He went into my bedroom damaged the window and gained entry into the bedroom. He physical abused me with open hands, clapped me almost two times on the cheek” said sorrowful Kayuva.

The dramatic event was revealed at West Commonage Court. Sithole pleaded guilty before Magistrate Tancy Dube.

“I do admit to the charge laid against me. I bashed her because she had insulted me saying she is not my mother” said Sithole.

The case was postponed and trial will continue at a later date.

-StateMedia

ZANU PF Bulawayo province is holding a fundraising event in the city tomorrow as it races against time to raise funds for the party’s annual people’s conference in Goromonzi next week.

Southern Eye has established that Zanu PF’s fundraising committee in the city is having sleepless nights as the party’s usual targets, private companies, have declared incapacitation to fund them.

Each province is expected to raise at least $500 000 to mainly feed Zanu PF delegates attending the conference.

Last week, chairperson of the Bulawayo fundraising committee Charles Chiponda claimed that the province had raised as much as 30% to 40% of their required budget.

But spokesperson of the fundraising committee Khumbulani Mpofu in an interview yesterday said the going has been tough for them with targeted traditional donors only making unfulfilled promises.

“We have traditional donors who we are targeting, but we are racing against time. As at present, they are just giving us promises since, as you know, the situation is difficult for many companies. It’s tough, but we are positive that some traditional donors will come through even at the last minute and assist,” Mpofu said.

In the past, the ruling party was accused of coercing some private companies to donate towards its conferences and other activities.

There have also been reports of some party activists taking advantage of the fundraising drive to divert donations for personal use.

In 2015, Zanu PF youth district chairpersons ousted their provincial executive – then led by Mpofu who is the current fundraising committee chairperson – on charges of corruption and using the party name to extort struggling companies of monies, groceries and fuel, which they later shared among themselves.

-Newsday

A RADIO frequency controller at the air traffic control (ATC) broke down on Monday night, causing a two-hour flights delay yesterday morning, NewsDay can reveal.

Last week, a leaked letter from the Air Traffic Controllers’ Association of Zimbabwe (ATCAZ) to Transport minister Joel Biggie Matiza, dated October 29 2019, highlighted the “continued deterioration in air navigation communication performance”.

In the letter, ATCAZ warned that failure to address the air navigation communication system could result in mid-air collisions and possible blacklisting of the country by the United Nations’ aviation agency, ICAO.

Efforts to reach Matiza were fruitless yesterday.

The latest systems failure has raised fears that Zimbabwe’s airspace may not be safe to navigate and has been made worse by air traffic controllers at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare, downing tools last Monday citing incapacitation and fatigue, forcing flights delays and cancellations.

Reports that there were technical challenges at the ATC yesterday were confirmed in a tweet from low-cost carrier, fastjet.

“We inform our esteemed customers that our flights today shall be affected by delays due to air traffic control technical issues experienced in Zimbabwe earlier on this morning. We apologise for any inconvenience caused as a result of this,” fastjet tweeted.

Contacted for comment, the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) confirmed that there had been some technical challenges that caused flights delays.

“All things are back to normal now. Safety and security are key to our operations, so we work to achieve exactly that 24/7,” a CAAZ spokesperson told NewsDay.

CAAZ could, however, not disclose the cause of the technical fault.

However, according to fastjet accountable manager Ed Berry, the airline was told that the technical challenge was caused by a breakdown in radio frequency that are used to communicate between planes in mid-flight and the ATC.

“The radio frequency that they were using was not working, that is what they explained to us this morning (Tuesday). Usually, airplanes are equipped with traffic collision guidance systems, and also they usually back-up frequencies that can be used and do get used. What you don’t do, if you are going to run on a back-up frequency though is to increase your problems by increasing the frequency,” he said.

“It is a radio frequency that is used for talking (between) air traffic control (and) the airplane. Sometimes the radio that controls that frequency breaks down. It is not a question of just one radio. There is a whole lot of stations throughout the country that are often run using data and transfer information using data and if that data feed fails sometimes you are going to have a problem in distributing the signal.”

Berry added: “The problem is fixed, so our flights are now flying. They delayed this morning, but they are flying again. Obviously, CAAZ in good time will communicate to us and give us more information as and when required.”

Despite the confirmation from CAAZ, Board of Airlines representatives chairperson and Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe president Winnie Muchanyuka said they had not heard anything on the matter.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The Defence, Home Affairs and Security Services portfolio committee said soldiers and police officers are being poorly fed, a situation that compromises their discipline and poses a grave danger to national security.

Committee chair, Levi Mayihlome, said that whereas rations are a mandatory requirement, each soldier is feeding on nine rations instead of the ideal 15 ration items per day.

He added:

The nine ration items per soldier per day translate to $54,98 per soldier per day. A paltry $103,17 million was allocated for this item, it is far below the minimum requirement.

It means that each soldier will survive on 39 cents per day, yet each meal is currently selling at an average price of $30.

This implies that the soldiers are exposed to intolerable hunger which affects training and skills development programmes. It compromises the soldiers’ discipline.

In his 2020 national budget presentation last month, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube allocated $3,11 billion and $2,8 billion to the Defence and Home Affairs ministries respectively.

However, according to the Committee, the funds are not adequate to meet the requirements of the security services.

-DailyNews

Hot summer reduces iconic cascade – normally so powerful it can be heard eight miles away – to the tiniest trickle in 25 years

One of the world’s most iconic waterfalls have been reduced to a pathetic trickle after being starved by the drought that is crippling southern Africa. 

Victoria Falls, which lies between Zambia and Zimbabwe, have almost completely dried up and the once deafening stream of foamy wash which roared through the gorge has nearly vanished.

Instead, a few tiny pools of water collect below the rock face after water levels plummeted by 50 per cent to hit the lowest slump in 40 years.  

Climate change has been blamed for the dramatic change in landscape, with Zambia’s President making a direct plea to Western states to clean up their act on environmental protection.

Devastating before-and-after pictures lay bare the crisis facing the natural world in the region – vibrant greenery has been ushered away and replaced by brown, ashen grasslands. 

In an intervention geared to stop the crisis spiralling further, Zambian President Edgar Lungu spelled out the damage being done by global warming

He told Sky News: It’s [climate change] a serious problem, a genuine one. And it is surprising when people trivialise it and say ‘climate change is not real’.  

‘Probably they’re living in a different world. But this world we live in, Zambia, we are feeling the effects of climate change really adversely. And it is impacting on everyone.’

But the local tourism board has rubbished the President’s view and dismissed concerns that the future existence of the waterfall is in jeopardy.

It said: ‘It’s normal to have low water this time of the year but the falls will never dry in our lifetime. We haven’t had as much water as we have had in the past years but it’s not dry.’ 

Standing at 355ft high, the impressive natural landmark draws thousands of tourists each year and generates much-needed business to the area.

Yet as well as risking the local economy, the drought also throws into chaos the wildlife living in the surrounding national parks. 

Almost eight million people in Zimbabwe are now believed to be reliant on food packages from overseas aid providers, and species conservation projects have been ramped up. 

Daily Mail

Paul Nyathi|ZEC Cjairperson Priscilla Chiguma has been put under stern test of allegiance after a new political party, ZANU-PF Original, submitted a letter to her requesting recognition as a political party in Zimbabwe ready to contest elections.

Chiguma recently shocked all and sundry when she accepted the registration of a political party, MDC Zimbabwe, well knowing that there is already the MDC led by Nelson Chamisa and referring to itself as MDC Zimbabwe in some platforms.

Chiguma who has always been accused of having a soft spot for the ruling ZANU PF party will have to prove her strength when she deals with the new ZANU PF.

Below is the letter from the new party to which she still has to respond.

04 December 2019
The Chairperson
Zimbabwe Electoral Commission
Mrs Justice P.M. Chigumba
1 Nelson Mandela Avenue
Corner Kaguvi Street & Jason Moyo Avenue Private Bag 7782
Causeway
Harare

Dear Madam

RE: NOTIFICATION OF EXISTENCE OP ZIMBABWE AFRICAN NATIONAL UNITY PATRIOTIC FRONT ORIGINAL (ZANU PF ORIGINAL) PARTY

The Zanu PF Original Party is hereby notifying the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission of the existence of Zimbabwe African National Unity Patriotic Front Original (Zanu PF Original) Party.

We wish our organisation Zimbabwe African National Unity Patriotic Front Original (Zanu PF Original) Party be included on ZEC’s stakeholder database and mailing list for notification for updates and meeting notifications arise.

For more information contact the undersigned.

Yours sincerely

National Coordinator
Zanu PF Original
Mr Timothy Chimusoro
Cell: +263 712 222 032

By A Correspondent- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has reportedly given his wife, Marry, until Friday, December 6, to leave their matrimonial home in Borrowdale.

The retired army general furiously cut ties his wife in July after a hospital bedside row in South Africa as he battled a mystery illness.

Marry, a former model and ex-wife of footballer Shingi Kawondera, was forced to return home as Chiwenga was flown to China where he received lengthy treatment before returning home on November 23.

Chiwenga has not been home to see Marry or their children after moving into their other property in Chisipite, from where he has been plotting his divorce.

Sources say a day after returning home, on November 24, the vice president sent an emissary to serve Marry with “gupuro” – a traditional Shona divorce token, typically a coin.

The couple were customarily married in 2011. The marriage is recognised under Zimbabwean law but carries complexities which notoriously bring grief to widows. Marry reportedly drew Chiwenga’s ire when she asked for a Marriage Act (Chapter 5:11) union as the 63-year-old battled for his life in a Pretoria hospital.

Chiwenga, who suspects that he was poisoned, reportedly told aides he feared his wife may have had a hand in his illness and accused her of infidelity.

Shortly after returning home, Chiwenga called in Harare lawyer Wilson Manase to finalise his separation.

Manase, while confirming Chiwenga was his client, declined to comment.

Court officials said the lawyer’s first move had been to obtain a gag order from a judge to officially conceal the file relating to Chiwenga’s divorce.

A letter was then delivered to the 36-year-old Marry directing her to vacate the property and leave behind their two children together – a boy and a girl aged eight and seven. The couple had been living with two other children, a boy and a girl, from Marry’s previous marriage.

A source close to the developments said Marry had also called her lawyers to fight the intended eviction, which follows a familiar script. Chiwenga divorced his first wife, Jocelyn, in 2010 to clear the path for his marriage to Marry.

Jocelyn was evicted from the matrimonial home and also had soldiers sent by Chiwenga – then the commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces – to kick her out of their farm in Shamva.

Marry, currently battling poor health herself, was not answering calls on Thursday and had not responded to messages left on her mobile phone.

George Charamba, the presidential spokesman, said: “I don’t get into people’s private relationships or homes. Sorry, I can’t help.”

-ZimLive

Own Correspondent|Former ZANU PF Politiburo Member Professor Jonathan Moyo says ex-ZANU PF Secretary for Administration Didymus Mutasa assisted him to re-join the party in 2009 after he had been an Independent politician from 2004.

Moyo made the revelations when responding to a twitter conversation with ione Elijah Chihota who had said, “Jonathan Moyo, you are an ungrateful creature, you always call President Mnangagwa names even when you are unprovoked. You should thank the President do you remember those days when Webster Cremora Shamu did not want to see your return in ZANU PF? Who saved you?”

Moyo replied that, “It’s good to see you guys are worked up. The heat is on. Didymus Mutasa was behind my return in 2009 and the person who knows how is Juliet Machoba. Mnangagwa had nothing to do with it. Nothing!”

In December 2010 during the ZANU PF People’s Conference Mugabe told delegates, “I don’t want to call him a prodigal son. He is back as he was working in the party; he has talent and I am sure we will be satisfied with his work.”

In 2004 Moyo had fallen out of favour with Mugabe for allegedly organising the Tsholotsho Declaration where he lobbied several ZANU PF bigwigs to support the appointment of Emmerson Mnangagwa as vice-president at its December national conference ahead of current incumbent Joyce Mujuru.

An angry Mugabe fired him and suspended several party officials linked to the succession plot.

Political analysts, among them, Ibbo Mandaza one of the Founding Trustees of the Non-Governmental Network, SAPES TRUST have said that it is not feasible for Mnangagwa to be in power beyond the constitutionally stated two terms, each with five years.

His remarks come after ZANU PF Secretary for Administration, Obert Mpofu had told Mnangagwa that Parliament can amend the constitution for him to have more than two terms. Mpofu had said:

Mr President, you can go beyond 2028 if you so wish because the issue of law can be taken care of in parliament.

While political analyst, Dr Tawanda Zinyama has warned that this “wishful thinking” will attract unnecessary anarchy as was the case in “the Great Lakes region in countries such as Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo”, Mandaza believes that Mnangagwa will be restricted not only by the Constitution. He said:

This is highly presumptuous given Mnangagwa’s age and the unknown in politics. This is political daydreaming.

When Mnangagwa came to power in 2017, taking over from Robert Mugabe who had ruled the country with a firm hand for nearly four decades, he pledged that he would, if revoted, be in power for only two terms.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has given his wife, Mary, until Friday, November 6, to leave their matrimonial home in Borrowdale, ZimLive reports.

The retired army general furiously cut ties his wife in July after a hospital bedside row in South Africa as he battled a mystery illness.

Mary, a former model and ex-wife of footballer Shingi Kawondera, was forced to return home as Chiwenga was flown to China where he received lengthy treatment before returning home on November 23.

Chiwenga has not been home to see Mary or their children after moving into their other property in Chisipite, from where he has been plotting his divorce.

Sources say a day after returning home, on November 24, the vice president sent an emissary to serve Mary with “gupuro” – a traditional Shona divorce token, typically a coin.

The couple were customarily married in 2011. The marriage is recognised under Zimbabwean law but carries complexities which notoriously bring grief to widows. Mary reportedly drew Chiwenga’s ire when she asked for a Marriage Act (Chapter 5:11) union as the 63-year-old battled for his life in a Pretoria hospital.

Chiwenga, who suspects that he was poisoned, reportedly told aides he feared his wife may have had a hand in his illness and accused her of infidelity.

Shortly after returning home, Chiwenga called in Harare lawyer Wilson Manase to finalise his separation.

Manase, while confirming Chiwenga was his client, declined to comment.

Court officials said the lawyer’s first move had been to obtain a gag order from a judge to officially conceal the file relating to Chiwenga’s divorce.

A letter was then delivered to the 36-year-old Mary directing her to vacate the property and leave behind their two children together – a boy and a girl aged eight and seven. The couple had been living with two other children, a boy and a girl, from Mary’s previous marriage.

A source close to the developments said Mary had also called her lawyers to fight the intended eviction, which follows a familiar script. Chiwenga divorced his first wife, Jocelyn, in 2010 to clear the path for his marriage to Mary.

Jocelyn was evicted from the matrimonial home and also had soldiers sent by Chiwenga – then the commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces – to kick her out of their farm in Shamva.

Mary, currently battling poor health herself, was not answering calls on Thursday and had not responded to messages left on her mobile phone.

George Charamba, the presidential spokesman, said: “I don’t get into people’s private relationships or homes. Sorry, I can’t help.”

ZimLive

Vice President Kembo Mohadi and Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa yesterday took time to spend the day launching, the now out of sorts ZANU PF government, Community Resilience Bakeries Programme in Waterfalls, Harare.

According to ZANU PF the National Bakeries Programme initiative introduced by the Government early this year is aimed at improving the supply of bread at affordable prices to the country using very ancient methods of baking the bread.

VP Mohadi said Government, including other stakeholders, will continue to support the bakeries programme throughout the country so that more and more people can afford to buy cheaper bread.

“Not only are these bakeries closer to our people, they are run by community members who will also generate income from the projects,” said VP Mohadi.

“Our efforts and indeed our current thrust are to assist the new and existing bakeries to increase their production capacities in a bid to make bread affordable and accessible to all our citizens.

“The community bakeries are one of our quick-win solutions to the challenges we are currently facing as a nation and I am delighted that once they are fully functional, they will improve our people’s livelihoods and enhance community resilience in all the 10 provinces.”

VP Mohadi said community bakeries promoted rural industrialisation in addition to improving food and nutrition security.

He added that the country could only achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Vision 2030 when food was available at affordable prices.

“The benefits of this programme at local level are immense as our communities will play an important role in rural industrialisation, employment creation, local value chains development and improving our food and nutrition security. This is in line with our economic blueprints — the Transitional Stabilisation Programme and Vision 2030.

“The impact of these blueprints is economic stabilisation and growth with the participation of all our citizens regardless of location. As we strive to transform our nation into a prosperous upper middle-income economy by the year 2030, a key success driver is a healthy and productive citizenry. We can only have a productive workforce if food is made available on the table at an affordable price and in adequate quantities,” said VP Mohadi.

“As Government we call for ethical conduct of business and urge established bakeries to forge win-win linkages with the community-based bakeries we are launching today. Our rich indigenous knowledge systems and locally available technology are making a huge positive impact on people’s lives; hence we should maximise their usage.

“It has also come to my knowledge that we can use alternative sources of energy to fuel bakeries such as biogas, LP gas and solar, among others,” he said.

He said this had created shortages of bread and bakery products in areas out of reach of big bakeries.

“It is therefore imperative that we engage marginalised communities in coming up with solutions such as these localised bakeries,” he said.

Minister Mutsvangwa said bread was not a luxury but a nutritional necessity and should never be in short supply.

Source: State Media

State Media|Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has warned politicians sponsoring machete gangs that the law will be applied on everyone regardless of social standing.

This comes as police have arrested over 5 000 people in eight months for offences ranging from illegal mining to possession of dangerous weapons.

Addressing a media conference in Harare yesterday after a meeting with his deputy, Cde Mike Madiro, police commanders and officials from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, Minister Kazembe said the issue of machete gangs was now worrisome and a serious security threat.

Under an operation dubbed “No To Anarchy by Artisanal Miners” police have since March arrested 3 471 people for possessing dangerous weapons, among them, machetes, while 1 549 illegal artisanal miners were also arrested countrywide.

The biggest number of illegal artisanal miners was arrested in Matabeleland North with 546 offenders nabbed, while the least number was arrested in Bulawayo where 27 were accounted for.

Midlands had 219 arrests, Harare (200), Mashonaland West (186), Matabeleland South (147), Mashonaland Central (83), Mashonaland East (53), Masvingo (46) and Manicaland (42).

A number of deaths have been reported in mining areas, while rape cases are also said to be on the increase.

“We have met with our Mines and Mining Development Ministry counterparts and the police commanders today to discuss the topical issues of the machete-wielding gangs.

“The media is awash with stories of machete gang wars and this is worrisome to us as we want peace and security to prevail.”

“Everyone has a role to play in this fight against illegal activities. Politicians, church leaders, individuals and Zimbabweans at large should all come together in fighting this scourge.

“The law will not be applied selectively in dealing with illegal activities regardless of one’s social standing, including politicians,” said Minister Kazembe.

“We will continue with the raids because we are saying Zimbabwe is open for business. We cannot attract investors if law and order is not prevailing in the country. We have moved a gear up in the raids as these issues are of a security threat.”

He said they were doubling efforts to bring sanity in all areas across the country.

“The arrests made so far are evidence that police are on the ground dealing with this issue.

“We will continue working with other security arms so that this issue is addressed once and for all. We will also work with those tasked with protecting the environment so that the environmental damage is also addressed,” he said.

National police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the arrest of illegal artisanal miners was an ongoing process.

“We have identified 260 panning sites across the country where police carry out constant raids as some of these areas are now havens of criminal activities like murder, robbery, assaults and rape.

“Those found in possession of dangerous weapons like machetes and iron bars will not be spared in the arrests. Arrests are being made across the country especially in areas where there are mining disputes,” he said.

Asst Comm Nyathi urged people to follow proper procedures in registering claims with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.

“No one should take the law into his or her hands regardless of political standing. Law and order will certainly prevail and Government wants peace in the country and as the police, it is our duty to guarantee this peace. The sanctity of human life should be respected.

“We recorded a recent death in Inyathi, Bubi District, Matabeleland North when a gang of about 50 illegal artisanal miners attacked other miners on Sunday and Monday and this is not acceptable,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.

Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs Minister Richard Moyo said the machete gangs called “MaShurugwi” had unleashed a reign of terror by killing, raping women and slaughtering people’s livestock.

“Our people are living in fear because of the violent behaviour of the hordes of illegal gold miners who come from other districts. The guys attack locals if they find them also panning for gold.

“They are always carrying axes and machetes. They are so daring that if the gold belt is stretching to people’s homesteads, these criminals violently force them out of their homes so that they can extract the mineral,” said Minister Moyo.

He added: “We are engaging police to ensure that they increase the deployment of their officers in these areas affected by the violent gold panners.”

The issue of the machete wielding gang wars also spilled into Senate yesterday, with Zvishavane Senator Lillian Timevous asking the leader of the House, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi on what Government was doing to thwart the gangs.

In response, Minister Ziyambi said: “The Home Affairs Ministry is alive to the issue. Measures are being taken and in the near future you will witness some changes on the issue pertaining these illegal activities. People should be allowed to go about their business freely without any fear of attacks from these gangsters.”