Mapombi Keeping it real... committed to tell Zimbabwe CCC: A Crisis Coalition of Comedians! Page 15 13 - 19 Jan 2023 TellZimbabwe US$1 To page 5 www.tellzim.com 267 Simon Muzenda street, Trade Centre, Masvingo, Tel: (039) 2262 401, Email: [email protected] TellZimbabwe @TellZimbabwe Tell Zim tellzimnews TellZim News Zec incompetent or bedding Zanu PF ? Theresa Takafuma I s the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) a competent body? Many people are questioning after ZEC released its preliminary ...EMB integrity questioned over delimitation report ...Opposition sold a ‘dummy’, to score own goal To page 12 To page 3 President Dr Emerson Mnangagwa Zec chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba Constitution and customary law conflicts a minefield - Makarau Theresa Takafuma The conflict between the constitution and customary law often puts traditional leaders in a tight spot, making it a 'minefield' they should navigate with utmost care for effective justice delivery, Supreme Court Judge Justice Rita Makarau recently said. Addressing guests at the official opening of the 2023 legal year at Masvingo High Court on January 9 2023, Justice Makarau said there are instances when culture and the constitution are in open conflict, leaving traditional leaders stuck between a rock and a hard place. “The coincidence of duties in the office of a traditional leader sees them being custodians of culture on one hand and custodians of the constitution on the other. They have to promote, uphold and protect both, and at times culture and the constitution nestle together comfortably making the role of the traditional leader easy and seamless. “At times culture and the constitution are in open conflict making the traditional leader sit in between the two stools most uncomfortably,” Makarau said. Makarau went on to give an example she was given by Chief
2 News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 POLITICS, ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE CITY OF MASVINGO REGIONAL, TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT CHAPTER 29:12 NOTICE OF AN APPLIVCATION FOR A CHANGE OF USE IN TERMS OF SECTION 26(3) OF THE ACT Notice is hereby given for an application to carry out the following development on stand 4290E Gerald Heasman Road, Westview Industrial Area Masvingo. 1. It is proposed to establish a Restaurant and Bar on the above named stand which is situated within a low density residential zone in terms of the Masvingo City Master Plan. The stand measures 1.0533 hectors. The application requires special consent of the local planning authority. 2. In terms of the act, the application is required to be advertised and owners of adjacent properties notified in writing before being considered by the local planning authority. The application, plans and any special conditions which the local planning authority is likely to impose in the event of this application being favorably considered may be inspected at the Director Engineering Services’ office during normal business hours at the Civic Centre R. Mugabe Way, Masvingo. Any person wishing to make objections or representation relating to the application may lodge them within the undersigned within one month of the date of insertion of this notice. Municipal Offices PO Box 17 Eng. E. Mukaratirwa MASVINGO TOWN CLERK Advert No. 96/2022 Beverly Bizeki Masvingo Province recorded 48 176 new voter registrants in 2022 making an 82 percent total voter population according to statistics released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) office recently. Over 48k voter registrants in Masvingo in 2022 ZEC Deputy Elections Officer Maxwell Ncube ZEC Deputy Elections Officer Maxwell Ncube confirmed the information and said the number had increased from the 439 recorded in 2021. "It is pleasing to note that the number of new voter registrants increased to 48 176 in 2022 from the 439 recorded in 2021," said Ncube. He also said the trend shows an increase in registration numbers as elections approach. "The trend shows an increase in new voter registrants every month owing to stakeholder participation in encouraging people to register to vote. "We however urge people to keep registering to vote," he added. The increase in numbers is likely owed to the lift in Covid-19 induced lockdowns and restrictions in movement and continuous voter education as well as outreach programmes. According to ZIMSTATS results published in 2022, the province has 791 938 adults giving a total of 82 percent registered voters showing also an increase from the 79 percent recorded during the previous elections. The 18 percent that remains unregistered according to census results then becomes 140 000. In December 2022, the province had 5 467 new voter registrants 2 960 of which were women while 2 507 were men. The province also recorded 1 331 transfers, 660 are women while 671 are men. Tinaani Nyabereka Gweru- Political parties in Midlands province have been urged to safeguard people against cyber bullying as violence has gone digital. The call was made by Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association director Cornelia Selipiwe during an inter-parties engagement meeting hosted by the 4-H Zimbabwe organisation in Gweru. Selipiwe said it was saddening to note how social media has been weaponized to tarnish the image of other political players. "Let me start by saying youths have access to power because they are the ones who also take part in choosing their leaders. If they take that same power, they can just use it to be in leadership positions I am sure. "Violence has gone digital, young people have resorted to the use of Twitter Spaces , Facebook and Whatsapp to speak issues which divide people, the nation and some of the messages have been generated by the political and social media influencers. "We need to be on guard against the use of social media to instigate violence. Look at how pictures of our country's leadership our President (Emmerson Mnangagwa), Nelson Chamisa's faces are cartooned, look how Mwonzora's pictures are edited. We need to guard against that and cultivate the spirit of tolerance among young people," he added. Zanu PF Midlands Youth Chairperson Ernest Dzoro said as all political leaders were preaching peace there was need for young people to act accordingly. "I am happy our political leaders are at the fore front of preaching peace, my own President Emmerson Mnangagwa is among the leaders doing so. Let’s also act accordingly and do as our leaders say. "Violence is down here at the grass roots, as leaders we don’t fight because above everything we have learnt that we are Zimbabweans. Why then do you (the youths) indulge in violence while your leaders are united? It’s time we change our behaviour together as youths," he said. MDC-T Midlands Youth Leader Albert Chadoka said there was need for party leaders to safe guard cyber platforms against weaponization for wrong reasons. "Indeed the issue of inclusivity on Persons with Disabilities is key at our MDC-T political party. We greatly consider that, now that we have also heard the concerns as political parties, we have agreed to go back and push so that your safety is guaranteed as you venture into political party activities. "Also let me put our national leaders to task. Our parties must look at the issues of social media with urgency, we don’t want a scenario where cyber bullying ruins our society. We are a people together despite belonging to different political parties. We now have a law which governs use of digital spaces and we appeal that it be used to protect ordinary innocent citizens against digital violence," Chadoka said. The engagement was attended by youth leaders from eight political parties including Zanu PF, Labour Economists and African Democrats (LEAD), Zimbabwe Economic Freedom Fighters (ZEFF), Front for Economic Emancipation Zimbabwe (FEEZ), National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), MDC-T and Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 3 POLITICS, ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE delimitation report which is allegedly marred with irregularities while others think it has simply sold its integrity by going to bed with the ruling party Zanu PF which, according to impeccable sources, wants the electoral body to maintain the current constituencies’ boundaries for the 2023 harmonized elections. The preliminary delimitation report which was tabled before Parliament by Minister of Justice Ziyambi Ziyambi on January 06, 2023, is proposing to dissolve some constituencies in Zanu PF’s strongholds and creating new ones in urban centres which are currently controlled by the main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Political analysts have raised red flags saying there is a possibility of an invisible hand that is controlling ZEC and forcing it to sacrifice its integrity by producing such a preliminary delimitation report with glaring anomalies. Political analyst Dr Wellington Gadzikwa said the report exposes ZEC and is probably a deliberate ploy by Zanu PF so that the current boundaries are maintained during the 2023 general elections. He added that the suspicion raised by how the ruling party and the electoral body suddenly have sour relations cannot be ignored. “It is strange for the ruling Zec incompetent or bedding Zanu PF ? party to be at loggerheads with ZEC and people have all the reasons to be suspicious about these sudden sour relations. It could be a political gimmick or some other trick that people will realize later. “It’s either they are at loggerheads or something else but it is very difficult for these two organs to go against each other. If they really are going against each other then it’s a different story but it is suspicious. This could be a ploy by the ruling party so that we go for an election using the current boundaries which favour them,” Dr Gadzikwa said. In the report, some constituencies which are primarily Zanu PF strongholds are dissolved while some only have their electorate offloaded into other wards. An analysis report by a 13 member Parliament Ad Hoc Committee on the preliminary report tabled in Parliament on January 13, 2023 largely criticized how the delimitation process was done, mostly without using the Final Census Report as per legal requirement, and will be debated in the August House on January 17 and 18, 2023 before being sent to the President. ZEC deliberately exhibiting incompetence? Among issues raised on the preliminary report draft are glaring legal issues that include the interpretation of Sections 160 and 161 of the constitution, as well as section 37A of the Electoral Act which speak on the legal basis of delimitation of electoral boundaries. How ZEC has only used the census preliminary report for the delimitation exercise has been questioned, especially in the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee analysis report, with some analysts saying it could have been a deliberate ploy by ZEC to miss such a crucial legal requirement with dire implications. In an interview, Labor Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD) President Linda Masarira said it is concerning that legal minds at ZEC missed the requirements stipulated in the constitution on how a delimitation exercise should be done. “ZEC has proved that it has no capacity to do a valid delimitation exercise. What is worrisome is how legal minds within ZEC failed to interpret section 161(3) and 161(6) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The sham job that ZEC did with the delimitation report raises eyebrows on whether they really have the capacity to run elections in Zimbabwe,” Masarira said. Speaking to TellZim, political commentator Dr Pedzisai Ruhanya said the preliminary report showed that ZEC is compromised as it is only exhibiting factional fights in the ruling party, and the analysis report by the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee is pro-Zanu PF as well. “What you see playing at ZEC is a reflection of the power struggles in Zanu PF, but most importantly it tells you that ZEC is compromised, captured and has no fidelity to run free and fair elections in Zimbabwe. “That report is a pro-Zanu PF report. That report supports the Zanu PF agenda but what you need to look at is who within the Zanu PF factions’ benefits more. Among the factional fights in Zanu PF it is tilted against those who support (President) Mnangagwa, that is why it has been rejected. It exhibits lack of elite consensus within the ruling party. “What is likely to happen when legislators debate on the issues raised in the report, given what the Ad Hoc committee of Parliament has said, unless these people put aside their fights and ZEC also agrees to address issues raised it is likely that the report will be thrown out,” Dr Ruhanya said. Gerrymandering: to what extent? ZEC has been accused of gerrymandering: the dictionary definition of this phenomenon is to manipulate the boundaries of an electoral constituency so as to favor one party or class. This has been described by analysts as one of the age old tactics to steal an election used by the ruling party, like in previous elections in 2000, 2008 and other examples. Media researcher and trainer Dr Last Alfandika said whilst there are suspicions that the ruling party is gerrymandering through the delimitation process, as evidenced by the seemingly dilution of the urban vote through offloading some urban wards into the rural areas where the ruling party is dominant, it may work against them. “We are seeing most of the opposition strongholds getting mixed up with rural electorate, maybe in the hope that they dilute the urban vote, it may work against them where the opposition actually takes some of the ruling party strongholds. “The ruling party also wants to win some of the urban areas, which will require more work to appease them, but then they are the authorities, they can use their power on resources to campaign. But we are likely to see deterioration in the event that some rural areas are taken by the opposition like we have seen in urban areas taken by opposition,” Dr Alfandika said. Research Fellow of Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC), University of Johanessburg, Dr Alexander Rusero said what the Ad Hoc Committee of Parliament raised on the delimitation preliminary report, real technical issues are pointing to ZEC incompetence, not necessarily on partisan grounds or the electoral body being biased towards Zanu PF. “The technical sentiments raised by the committee to say the delimitation report should not be detached from the final census report are valid. That alone tells you the extent at which incompetence could actually be the one crippling ZEC, not necessarily the partisan sentiments where the electoral body is accused of favoring Zanu PF. “ZEC should go back to the drawing board and factor in the recommendations and produce a good report. I don’t think time constraints are an issue here because what is more important is that whatever ZEC is trying to do is aimed at strengthening our democratization and delivering a credible poll at the end of the day. “I don’t think the narrative that ZEC favors Zanu PF is a good narrative, so ZEC should just do the right thing, rope in the technical expertise and make sure that at least the election resembles the aspirations and the will of the people,” Dr Rusero said. He also said from the Ad Hoc analysis report, it shows that Parliament is in agreement, albeit Zanu PF’s two thirds majority in the August House, but although strange, that they are also against the report points towards democratization of the process. Way Forward While the general sentiment is that the delimitation process was not properly done, Election Resource Centre (ERC) has said that on top of addressing issues raised by stakeholders, it should extensively consult in order to have a comprehensive report that is acceptable despite From page 1 To page 4 LEAD president Linda Masarira
2 022 year end saw most local authorities engaging residents and other stakeholders in areas of jurisdiction on how they can share their resources wisely in form of budgets. After several consultations and capturing of stakeholder input, management at respective councils then submitted the proposed budgets for approval at the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and majority of the budgets reportedly sailed through with some not being altered as have been the case in the past. Last year, quite a number of councils delayed their operations due to delays in the approval of the budgets and thus for this year the earlier action from the parent ministry must work as a positive and plus to them kick starting their operations. Now that this year the approvals were not delayed then the authorities should ensure they hit the ground running and start operations on a high note taking advantage o f such a n ini - tiativ e . Quite a number o f k e y projects were, have been or are to be lined up so the authorities should start implementing the projects so that by the end of the fiscal year some meaningful development would be realized. Residents need to appreciate better service delivery and realize value for their money they pay in form of rates. Such areas like liquid and solid waste managem e n t , c l e a n w a t e r provision needs to be given priority and the earlier the better. Such drawbacks like challenges in collecting revenue caused by delayed approval should now be a thing of the past and thus councils should capitalize on the given opportunity and ensure a smooth take off is achieved and thus benefit both the service provider and consumer of the services. Revenue collection efficiency for 2023 should see a marked shift towards improvement if last year’s not so convincing performance were a result of delayed budget approval as attributed to. Councils would also get the chance to ensure that the issue of tariffs is resolved from the word go to avoid a scenario whereby councils will be forced to rebase tariffs which at most times create a conflict between local authorities and residents as they feel they are being duped of their hard-earned cash. 4 Leader page TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 TellZim News subscribes to a Code of Conduct that promotes truthful, accurate, fair and balanced news reporting. If we do not meet these standards, register your complaints with VMCZ at Number 34 Colenbrander Road, Milton Park, Harare. (04) 778096/ 778006. e-mail: [email protected] / infor@ vmcz.co.zw whatsapp 0772125658. 24hr complaints line 0772 125 659. 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Speaking to TellZim News, ERC Programs Manager Solomon Bobosibunu said ZEC might not necessarily go to every village or constituency but to look at who represents the interests of the citizenry in order to rectify issues raised in the draft report. “If there are political parties that they can meet with, thrash those differences (raised in the report) they can then produce a comprehensive reviewed document. “ZEC can naturally prompt section 161(12) of the constitution but we would not want them to go that route because we want them to engage with stakeholders, we want consensus in all electoral processes, we Zec incompetent or bedding Zanu PF ? want people to buy in, to the different boundaries, accept that there are changes that can actually be made legitimately by the electoral commission for the reasons that are valid. “If they are yet to consider population data, let them also take that into account and consider the geographic distribution of voters together with the implications of the boundaries they are proposing. This would go a long way in making the election credible and acceptable by all stakeholders involved in the entire electoral process,” Bobosibunu said. From page 3 Dr Wellington Gadzikwa Dr Last Alfandika
5 News TellZim News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY TellZim Reporter Masvingo City Council’s 2023 budget which was submitted for approval to the Ministry of Local Government, National Housing and Public Works towards the end of 2022 has been approved without alterations. City Acting Finance Director Danister Jori confirmed the development and said the budget was approved on January 10 , 2023 after council made clarifications on the minister’s comments on the submitted budget proposal. “There were a few comments from the minister in which he sought more clarification on 2022 capital projects. He requested that we give a detailed account of these projects, with pictures and more clarifications, which we did, leading to the approval of the budget," said Jori. He said the budget performance will be determined by how ratepayers will comply in paying their tariffs as well as servicing debts. “Overall budget performance will be determined by rate payments which enhances revenue collection and in turn improves service delivery. “If we do not get money on time, we may fail to fulfil our budget aspirations and that affects service delivery. What the budget approval means for the residents is that tariffs were not adjusted so it was approved as it was,” Jori said. In the approved budget, for ordinary residents in high density suburbs like Mucheke, the minimum monthly bill is pegged at US$23.68. Masvingo City Council budget approved without alterations Aerial view of Masvingo Town House
6 News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY Staff Reporter Masvingo – The African Reformed Church run Shonganiso Mission Clinic recently received an ambulance from President Emmerson Mnangagwa fulfilling a pledge he made during the ordination of the church’s new Bishop Professor Rungano Zvobgo who is also the Vice Chancellor of Great Zimbabwe University. The ambulance was delivered at the clinic on January 11, 2023 after having been handed over to Professor Zvobgo at State House earlier on. Shonganiso clinic could be the first clinic to have an ambulance in Zimbabwe as most ambulances are owned by hospitals. Speaking at the event, Prof Zvobgo said the delivery of the ambulance fulfilled his mother’s wish saying she once asked them to source for funds to purchase one but they laughed it off. “This donation here fulfills Mbuya Zvobgo’s wishes. She once asked us to source for an ambulance long ago but we said it was impossible. She asked us if we had tried but had not, but now it’s here,” said Prof Zvobgo. He said the ambulance will go a long way in helping as expecting mothers were delivering on road sides on their way to Morgenster Shonganiso Mission gets ambulance Mission Hospital and appealed to people not to misuse the vehicle. “We need to thank the president for the donation that will save lives. We pleaded with him to upgrade our bridge (across Mutirikwi bridge) and we hope the issue will be addressed soon,” he added. His spokesperson and nephew Mugove Matindike told the gathering that the ambulance will be used to ferry critical people to referral hospitals mainly the old, expecting mothers, critically ill or injured people and school leaners especially during sporting activities. Fuel will be provided by government as well as the driver but during critical fuel shortages, people may be asked to contribute. Other patients who are not critical and may need the services of the ambulance are allowed to use it at a cost. The area village head Hericanos Chisina thanked Prof Zvobgo and president Mnangagwa for the donation saying he had fulfilled his promise but urged the responsible authorities were to look into the road issue as the ambulance could not render services if the road is bad. “We want to thank you Professor (Zvobgo) for talking to the president on our behalf. I heard the president promising the ambulance saying you had asked him, so it is our hope that the bridge issue will be renovated soon. I also know that the bridge cannot be constructed where there is no road so the road issue will be addressed also,” said Chisina. Shonganiso Mission consists of a clinic, church, primary and secondary schools. NOTICE SHOP LICENCE Notice is hereby given that application will be made to the Licensing Authority for Zaka Rural District Council for the issue of a shop license to Stanford Garira trading as Downtown Shopping Mall to carry out a business of GENERAL DEALER in respect of premises situated at Stand No. 1842A Jerera Growth Point. Application will be made at the same time for the business to be carried out under the effective control of Stanford Garira. DATED AT MASVINGO 13 January 2023 Stanford Garira 2725 Nyabare Park ZAKA APPLICANT Professor Rungano Zvobgo's spokesperson Mugove Matindike (In scotched shirt) pose for a photo in front of the ambulance with the church vice Bishop Livison Dumbu
TellZim News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News 7 SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY Beatific Gumbwanda CHIREDZI-With allegations of corruption on the development of Chiredzi’s 750 hectares meant for urban expansion reaching climax, Chiredzi West Member of Parliament Farai Musikavanhu and Chiredzi Rural District Council (CRDC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ailes Baloyi have allegedly been targeted by Full Life Open Arms Africa Investments (FLOAAI) Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) Pastor Godfree Nelson Madanyaya for allegedly calling the process corrupt and not serving the best interests of residents, TellZim News can reveal. A few weeks ago, Chiredzi District Development Coordinator (DDC) Lovemore Chisema convened a closed-door stakeholder meeting with Chiredzi Town Council, Chiredzi Rural District Council (CRDC), FLOAAI, Joint Operations Command (JOC), War Veterans, Zanu PF District Coordinating Committee (DCC) chairperson Siyaki Mundungehama to deliberate on the correct position involving the processes of the land. Literally the project was awarded as a joint venture between Chiredzi RDC and Chiredzi Town Council on the remainder Chiredzi’s 750ha land saga takes new twist …Madanyaya ‘targets’ Musikavanhu, Baloyi for shunning corruption ...Intimidations, bribery rocks project 21 December 2022 The District Development Coordinator Mwenezi RE: EHUMATION OF JEFTA HARAHARA AND REBURIAL We have been approached by Mr Bothwell Shoko ID number 48-021706W54 of Chirimigwa village, Chief Neshuro requesting the exhumation and reburial of Harahara Jefita who died in 1987 and buried at Muzhanje Farm, village 3, Chief Neshuro and to he reburied at Chibaya village under Chief Chitanga, Mwenezi district. Mwenezi Rural District Council has no objection to the request once other relevant authorities have assessed and authorized the request. Thank you R. Sitera For Chief Executive Officer Cc: ZRP- Mwenezi Registry- Mwenezi Social Welfare- Mwenezi of Buffalo Range for urban expansion after the late Zanu PF Provincial Secretary for Information Ronald Ndava and Former Chiredzi Town Council chairperson Francis Moyo approached the Ministry seeking land for urban expansion when they were ‘commissioners’ for Chiredzi Town Council. FLOAAI, which is being accused for fronting the interests of Minister July Moyo, did a feasibility study for the project and are currently at an advanced stage on the planning process without prior knowledge to the beneficiary local authorities who were hoping to start servicing the land as a precursor to the sale of the stands for residential, commercial and industrial purposes. Information gathered by TellZim News, indicated that FLOAAI, which had opened its offices at Croco Motors in Chiredzi, adjacent to the project, is currently selling serviced land to desperate home seekers in Chiredzi at a cost of US$20.61 per m2, with one being supposed to pay US$1 500 deposit in its ZB Bank, Account Number 4113671815405 and the remaining paid in installments. Speaking during the stakeholder meeting, Madanyaya openly indicated that he was not in good books with Chiredzi West Member of Parliament Farai MuFull Life Open Arms Africa Investments C.E.O Pastor Nelson Godfree Madanyaya To page 8 Chiredzi West Member of Parliament Farai Musikavanhu
TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News 8 SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY sikavanhu and Chiredzi RDC CEO Baloyi whom he referred to as ‘stumbling blocks’. “I was given 1 700 stands by the two local authorities of which I am expecting to get more and we are now waiting for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate to start working on the 750 hectares, that is why we opened the office at Croco Motors. We are still set to meet with the two local authorities in order to update them on the progress of work. “There is a lot of politics in this project by RDC, not Town Council who are saying that the project will never get to see the light of the day. I have consulted three members of parliament including Bhila, Masiya and Gwanetsa who gave green light to the project except Musikavanhu who is always speaking negatives about the project in newspapers. “I even learnt that Musikavanhu and Baloyi are best friends and I never bothered to approach the CEO because I will be wasting my time,” said Madanyaya. The project’s feasibility study indicated that there will be 6 042 stands, with 1 700 already been given to FLOAAI, 11 primary schools, five secondary schools, a university and five fuel service stations. A minimum of 300 hectares will be occupied by 40 high rising flats for residential purposes. FLOAAI, during the stakeholder meeting, stammered on the number of stands which the two local authorities are set to benefit, with Chiredzi TC and Chiredzi RDC planners, Consider Kubiku and Takudzwa Chimanya openly indicating that the developer is not updating the two local authorities on the progress of work and they hear rumors that the developer is already selling the land. Paul Kruger, Minister July Moyo’s right hand man has also claimed his 500 stands after he was approached to make designs on the water reticulation system for the project at the cost of US$ 3 million dollars. Chiredzi TC vice chairperson Ropafadzo Makumire who vowed that the local authorities are going to get their full share of the cake blamed the local authority’s Acting Town Secretary Engineer Wesley Kauma and CEO (Baloyi) for not following proper procedures by permitting the developer to sell stands in order for him to cover his debts acquired during the process. “Mdara (Madanyaya), I don’t Chiredzi’s 750ha land saga takes new twist blame you but the Town Secretary and CEO. The letter which was written to you is not even known by the two local authorities. Mr Chimanya, do you know about this? These are the planners for the two local authorities who do not even know that. The CEO and Town Secretary are taking the two councils for a joy ride,” said Makumire. The initial agreement of the project, which the current councilors have not glimpsed, was signed by the late Chiredzi Town Council Town Secretary Charles Muchatukwa and the current Secretary General for the Association of Rural District Councils of Zimbabwe (ARDCZ) Isaac Matsilele when he was the Chief Executive Officer of Chiredzi RDC. In an interview Chiredzi Residents and Ratepayers Association (CHIRRA) chairperson Jonathan Muusha said they are saddened by the unsolicited process of hand picking FLOAAI as the developer who is currently owning the whole of 750 ha which is supposed to be benefitting the two local authorities who have20 000 people on the waiting list. “We are pained by the corruption involving the 750 ha project which is now being allegedly owned by the developer. We are not happy with the unsolicited process done to pick the developer, which was facilitated by senior top officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, who are believed to have a stake in the land and also seasoned politicians in Chiredzi who are eying to have a stake in the 750 ha of land from Madanyaya. “Due to influence and threats from the Ministry officials, the developer is now selling un-serviced stands against the government statutory obligations because he feels protected by senior politicians so we alerted ZACC and Parliamentary Portfolio Committee and we are just praying for their swift response,” said Muusha. War veterans here in Chiredzi, forcefully closed Madanyaya’s offices in order to have a discussion on the allegations he is facing and said they are still investigating the matter in order to establish the correct position. “We are still in the process of consultation and investigation. We wish to call out for an Indaba with residents, councils and the developer to set the record straight,” said Paul Makuni Chiredzi District Secretary for the War Veterans. From page 7 Chiredzi Rural District Council CEO Ailes Baloyi
News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 9 SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY Branton Matondo Christmas celebrations are traditionally fashioned and characterized by sharing of gifts and remembering loved ones and so much was the celebration hosted by Mutare ward 4 Councillor Edson Kalulu at his house in Sakubva. Cllr Kalulu took the festive season celebrations back to the community as he shared goodies with the needy from his ward. The grocery packages which consisted of 2kg rice, 2kg sugar, one green bar soap, 1kg salt and 750ml cooking oil were donated to 51 residents who included the elderly and those living with disabilities. Speaking to TellZim News, Kalulu said the donation was meant to cater for people finding it difficult to survive during hard times. "The donation was meant for the elderly, people living with disabilities including visual impairments within ward 4. I thought as a special day of the year, it should Cllr Kalulu remembers the needy during festive season be celebrated by giving back to the needy. These items were shared equally among the 51 selected residents." "There are people who are finding it hard to make a standard living in ward 4. I felt the goodies should also be shared amongst orphans. Though 32 people got a fair share of council’s donations, l saw it fit enough to further select 51 members because ward 4 is huge," said Kalulu. He also called for other social custodians and community leaders to remember the community. "It's good to share and give to those who are living with disabilities, old people and less privileged, so that they enjoy on Christmas day. Social leaders should give back to the community because sharing and giving is a traditional social norm," he added. The sharing of gifts by Cllr Kalulu follows a well-received cheer fund and donation by Mutare City Council on December 24 at Queens Hall. Mutare city fathers donated to 32 members from every ward across the city. Organizations across Mutare have been remembering the needy within the community. TALM Real Givers led by Mutare Informal Traders Association (MITA) President Itai Kariparire gives back to community on a monthly basis. Ward 4 constitutes Maonde and Muchena sections, New and Old Chisamba, Mundembe and Chisamba singles. Some recipients of the groceries from Cllr Kalulu
10 TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News SERVICE DELIVERY & ACCOUNTABILITY NOTICE SHOP LICENCE Notice is hereby given that application will be made to the Licensing Authority for Zaka Rural District Council for the issue of a shop license to Stanford Garira trading as Downtown Shopping Mall to carry out a business of GENERAL DEALER in respect of premises situated at Stand No. 1842A Jerera Growth Point. Application will be made at the same time for the business to be carried out under the effective control of Stanford Garira. DATED AT MASVINGO 13 January 2023 Stanford Garira 2725 Nyabare Park ZAKA APPLICANT Staff Reporter There is joy amongst residents of Mucheke flats in ward 1 as Masvingo City Council working with its partners managed to renovate the flats’ ablution facilities to allow each household to have its own toilet. All along more than 10 families were sharing the same toilet, a development which made it difficult for residents to keep the facilities clean. Passersby could also walk in and mess the toilet since there was no one to monitor who enters it. However, the partnership between council and Dialogue on Shelter for the Homeless in Zimbabwe Trust has seen each household getting own toilet located on the main entrance and that makes it easier to monitor who enters. Ward 1 councilor Alderman Selina Maridza said she was happy that people in the flats finally had decent facilities as the previous situation was dire. “We thank council and its partners for stepping in at the flats. The situation was so bad and exposed residents to diseases but now what is left is just to extend the flats so that families live decently,” said Alderman Maridza. One resident Innocent Jaravaza said the area was now habitable since sanity had been restored and called for the local authority to channel more resources towards extending the houses. “We are now living peacefully because each family now has its own toilet. More than 10 families used to share the same toilets and those who passed by would help themselves here also leaving the toilets dirty,” said Jaravaza. Another resident Shylet Wadhonza said they were now comfortable telling others that they live in town Masvingo City renovates Mucheke flats as the situation before was worse than in any rural area. “We are happy and can safely say we are in town. We had a tough situation here but a few improvements will make this area perfect,” said Wadhonza. A section of Mucheke flats Innocent Jaravaza shows one of the new toilets
TellZim News News > 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News 119 Beverly Bizeki I n a heart-rending incident that occurred in Gachiti village under Chief Bota, Zaka on January 6, 2023, 52 year old Emmanuel Gumbire died at his homestead after lightning struck his house. Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident. "I can confirm receiving reports of a sudden death by lightning in Zaka," said Dhewa. It is alleged that on the date in question at around 13:00, Tendai Gumbire who happens to be the deceased's daughter called to notify him that she would be visiting but he did not pick up his phone. Tendai proceeded to visit her father on the same day and arrived home to find her father lying on the floor in his bedroom with blood oozing from his nose. After making some inspections on the body, Tendai discovered that his forehead was deformed and noticed the washing line was already damaged by fire. It is suspected that the lightning struck the washing line which had its poles attached to the bedroom hut where the deceased was found lying in. Tendai advised Freddie Charles her father's uncle residing in the same village who confirmed that the sudden death was caused by lightning and informed Zaka police. Zaka magistrate Tariro Mudzingo waived the post mortem. Beverly Bizeki The Judicial Service Commission is set to embark on the second phase of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) on February 1 following the successful launch of the electronic system for the Constitutional, Supreme and commercial division of the High Court Speaking at the official opening of the legal year 2023 in Masvingo, JSC Secretary Walter Chikwana said legal practitioners are encouraged to familiarize with the system as the commission is set to undertake phase two of the project. "We are in phase two of the implementation of the IECMS in which we are going digital in the administrative and labor court so we are here to interact with the legal practitioners as they litigate in our courts. “We ask them (legal practitioners) to register to enable them to access the system, be trained for them to maneuver the system and also that we have set up e-filing centers at the courts," said Chikwana. Self-actors were also allowed to register at the High Court in preparation of the second phase as the two courts will go paperless from February. Addressing stakeholders at Administrative, Labor Courts go digital the High Court in Masvingo, Registrar of the Administrative Court Kudzai Maronga representing Chikwana said National Employment Councils, designated agents, trade unionists and the Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare were key in the trainings being carried on in preparation of the launching of the IECMS phase 2. "One needs to be registered in order to access the IECMS system thus we are here to register you as we prepare to go digital in the administrative and labor court. "I encourage you to participate in the trainings being carried out so that when we start you will be able to use the system when we go live in February," said Maronga. Maronga also highlighted some of the benefits of using the system which include the removal of physical barriers in accessing the courts. Participants at the stakeholders meeting also raised concern over the availability of resources for accessing the system to which the commission assured them that resources were available. "Anyone who wants to use the system can use facilities that have been made available at the all the magistrates court which also include e filing officers to assist people in filing cases," said Maronga. The IECMS will see the coming in of online payments, virtual hearings, e-filing among others. Phase three of the project which is expected in the next few months will see the implementation of IECMS in the general division of the high court like the criminal court. Zaka man struck by lightning JSC Secretary Walter Chikwanha
12 News TELL ZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 HUMAN RIGHTS Constitution and customary law conflicts a minefield - Makarau Supreme Court Judge Justice Rita Makarau sitting (center) Murinye in a prior meeting with traditional leaders, the example which involved atonement of death by murder known in Shona as ‘kuripa ngozi’. She spoke on how it may be acceptable for negotiations for the atonement of death to be used in mitigating the sentence of the offender in a criminal court but then may be controversial when it involves pledging a girl child as atonement to replace lost life due to constitutional obligations where traditional leaders are required to protect the girl child. “(But) where the family of the offender pledges a girl child in the process as atonement for and replacement of the lost life, the law demands that the traditional leader protects the girl child even if this is in open defiance of age old cultural practices in his or her jurisdiction. “When and where to draw the line is a minefield that traditional leaders must navigate with utmost care. The Chiefs Council, members of academia, the Judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission and its training arm, must all come together to enhance competent service delivery by our traditional leaders in the application of customary law in tandem with the constitution and other statutes,” Makarau said. Speaking on the same issue, President of the Chiefs Council, Chief Fortune Charumbira said while customary law courts presided over more cases than all other courts, there was low appreciation on how they execute these duties. “We still have a dual judicial system in Zimbabwe. One judicial system starts at the level of the magistrate upwards, then the other judicial system only caters for the rural poor, and that one is neglected. These are issues that we need to address. “It is fact that even though we have that legal age of majority act (Marriages Act), even lawyers or judges, when they themselves are affected sometimes directly, they do not think in terms of the Act. They will come to our courts seeking relief on their cases that in some cases do not involve minors but have to be resolved customarily,” Charumbira said. Charumbira also said there were serious problems regarding the implementation of the statutory laws, where sometimes culture is in open conflict with the constitutional law and the citizenry end up using what works for them in specific scenarios. “That the customary law courts are recognized by the law of this country is not in debate. What is in debate is to what extent does the justice delivery system provide a conducive environment and respect the customary law courts— that’s where we have issues. “Customary law courts dispose of more cases than those from all the other courts combined. Judgments and proceedings from local courts are in sync with our values and are friendly, homely and are not as harsh and foreign. People like local courts, but people who preside over local courts do not get any salary at all,” Charumbira said. There have been debate over how customary law courts handle some matters, with calls for the need to document the number of cases completed at these courts being made. From page 1
TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News 13 Mudha still kicking in Zanu PF Beverly Bizeki The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has been urged to open a circuit court in Chikombedzi in Masvingo province to improve access to justice in the area. Addressing guests at the official opening of the 2023 legal year in Masvingo on January 9, 2023, Justice Rita Makarau said the move would ensure that access to justice by people in the area is improved. "The issue of the opening of a circuit court at Chikombedzi which is fairly distant from Chiredzi and is not readily accessible especially during the rainy season, will go a long way towards improving access to justice. "I was informed that the crimes committed in the area are quite serious, including as they do, stock theft and armed robberies," said Justice Makarau. She also said the move to open a circuit court has been welcomed as the delay to ensure justice prevails results in criminals fleeing from the country to Mozambique. "The delay in prosecuting cases from this area results in the defeating of justice as the offenders easily but illegally cross the border into Mozambique," added Justice Makarau. Justice Makarau recommended these observations to JSC after noting that the province was in need of another provincial magistrate and an additional magistrate to assist in the disposition of civil matters. "The candid but value adding observations made by the profession especially regarding the need for another provincial magistrate to assist in the disposition of civil matters can only go a long way in enhancing service delivery by the magistrate courts here in Masvingo," explained Justice Makarau. Masvingo has also been applauded for a commendable work after achieving a sterling 99 percent case clearance rate in the previous legal year. The High Court in Masvingo was also commended for setting very high standards despite operating with two judges only. "Even though the two judges coped well with the workload at the station, I am aware of the sentiments of the community that an additional judge be deployed at Masvingo High Court at the nearest convenience," said Justice Makarau. Circuit court to open at Chikombedzi Justice Rita Makarau But ED anozozvinyanyawo vakomana. Mapombi is very sure that Uncle Bob must be turning in his grave. Honestly, appointing Auxillia into the Politburo was very unnecessary – ko zvasiyanei naMugabe who had appointed his wife Dr Gire the women’s league boss? What is the difference between ED and Bob nhaimi vanhu veZanu PF? Mapombi is too junior zvake to warn ED but kumagumo kune nyaya mukaita maitiro aiitwa naMugabe aya, at least I have said it. Anyway, compliments of the new season Cdes. Mapombi would like to thank the Almighty God for protecting her throughout 2022; though under very difficult circumstances. Of course the difficulty circumstances are called austerity for prosperity, at least according to our finance minister Mthuli Ncube. But is that guy really a professor? Ndikutobvunzawo hangu vanotizivei nezvekufunda izvi because inini zvangu Mapombi handizvione mushe. He must be a professor of incompetence. Yes, Mthuli is very much incompetent. Him and Dr Gideon Gono same same potse potse Dr Gidza vakatova nani. As of Dr Mangudya I shall not speak. All I can say Panonetsa chokwadi. Kkkkkkkk what’s in a name – munhu onzi Panonetsa Mangudya wotoonawo zveshuwa kuti hapana kumira mushe panonetsa. At least his second term is coming to an end in the next few months maybe someone who takes over may save us from this unending drama. By the way, I have heard a lot of talk about this ZEC delimitation report, with some people coming up with crazy analysis. Recently, I was looking for some rotten bananas kwedu kuChitima Market uko as you are aware that this January disease is hitting everywhere except those who support Zanu PF. Yes, Mapombi suspects the Zanu supporters are not facing any challenges this January because the way they support mediocrity so ka zvimwe z v i n o t o i t a senge munhu ane shavi. M a p o m b i thinks the delimitation report that was submitted to Mnangagwa and the shenanigans that followed after is all the work of Zanu PF. I will never agree that ZEC is so competent to that extent but it was a well calculated move that is meant to dismiss the new delimitation boundaries so that we go for an election using the 2018 constituency boundaries. Its not a secret that the new proposed constituency boundaries in the delimitation report submitted is favouring opposition CCC. Mapombi will never agree that Chigumba, an experienced judge can fail to interpret a simple constitutional clause and let alone failed to consult even her colleagues who sit on the constitutional court bench. Really? As if that is not enough, Chigumba with all her experience again failed to consult or actively involve the other seven commissioners in the ZEC board kwava kungoita hake iye naVice Chair vari two? This is very clear Cdes – ndoinonzi tamba tamba chidembo muswe ndakabata. This is all Zanu PF tactics so that the delimitation report is discredited and the President and the Parliament will recommend ZEC to redo the delimitation exercise. Once such a recommendation is made it then become automatic that the new delimitations will not be used during 2023 general elections because the law is very clear that the exercise should be concluded at least six months before the elections for it to be effected on the forthcoming elections. In this situation the earliest ZEC can resubmit the report, if its recommended to redo, will be March or April.. There are very clear indicators that show the Zanu PF invisible hand in this drama. Firstly, no one would dare go against a process by government or its parastal especially after being appointed into the board by the President. And in this ZEC case we have seven commissioners claiming that they were not fully involved in the report. Obviously they first consulted the powers that be if the move was the best or they were instructed to do so. The main reason is Zanu PF wants the delimitation report to be dismissed on technicality hence this narrative by the ZEC commissioners. Mapombi will never buy the idea that the division shown by the commissioners is a reflection of the factional fights in Zanu PF. Of course we all know that muri kugwiwa mumusangano but kunoshandiswa the whipping system and no one dares to go against the President. Trust me on this one. Haungarambe uchiridya rinopisa zvokwadi if you dare going against the leadership so either those commissioners worked under instruction or they consulted after they told the ruling party that they will lose more constituencies if they go to the election with the new delimitation boundaries. And guess what did the opposition did after presented with such an opportunity? That CCC party is a crisis coalition of comedians zvokwadi. Those guys are lawyers cum comedians. Even a Grade 7 dropout will tell you that CCC was going to have more MPs under the new proposed delimitation boundaries than the 2018 one, but ivo dzungu too much. Zanu PF trapped them and they knew these guys vanoda kuzofamba vachizvirova matundundu kuti tisu takazvivharisa, and now they are busy saying the report favours Zanu PF what what. Haaaa tikwanirei apa. Dzungu munoriwanza too much. Some are even highlighting some Sections of the law that were violated by ZEC when they compiled the delimitation report and stuff. Ko mukadzikama zvinei nhaimi maComedian? Mapombi now understands why Chamisa was or is nicknamed Mhepo because speed yakawandisa apa. Bhora pasi mudenga hamuna ground musabvuma kushandiswa neZanu to dismiss the report that they don’t want themselves. They have created technicalities and vacuums so that the opposition can fall for it. What kind of an opposition is too predictable like that? And you expect to win 2023 elections when everyone can easily read your minds like this? I doubt. Anyway, opposition should run with the narrative yekuita endorse the Zec delimitation report and if they can’t they must learn to shut their mouths. They have gained constituencies in their strongholds but they are on the forefront saying the report favours Zanu PF kkkkkkkkk kumwe kupusa kunoda kurutsisiwa chokwadi. Kukundwa negonzo rinoti rikateewa nechirimbani rinonyumwa chokwadi. I think I have said enough zvekuti vane nzeve dzekunzwa vanzwa. And to my dear brother Nelson Chamisa can you listen to me ndimbokubayawo zani sehanzvadzi yako. This is politics so izvi zvekuti you respond to every situation nemunamato haaaa you have to change the approach. Some situations need to be solved by politicians and not pastrors so you should know where to use the two exchangeably. Vanhu vanorohwa kwaMurehwa iwe busy nema Bible verse paTwitter uchirega kundoona maSupporter arohwa? Manje kana zvakadaro tinofirei zvedu nekurohwa when we all know kuti not even a solidarity message will come from the leader except verses. We will only vote you because we are desperate for change, and not because you are the best Nero. Your strategies and tactics are far much below expectations. Let me go and have my rotten bananas and maputi because it’s almost lunch time. I am sure those who care to listen vanzwa and those close to ED and Nero will tell them chenjedzo yabva kuna Mapombi kuti Mukadzi anoda kuitiwa slow down because ava kumhanya zvekutodarika Dr Grace chaiko. And to Nero, tell your supporters to shut up if they cannot support the delimitation report because rakanakira opposition and Zanu PF wants it dismissed. Musabvuma kushandiswa. And lastly, every leader must condemn violence and do everything to make sure that there is no political violence. We want peaceful elections. CCC: A Crisis Coalition of Comedians!
News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 Zimbabwe Leeds Community brings relief to vulnerable migrants TellZim Reporter The Zimbabwe Leeds Community (ZLC) a charity organization established in 2016 for Zimbabweans living in the West Yorkshire area in the United Kingdom is bringing smiles to vulnerable Zimbabweans struggling to make ends meet away from home. Over the Christmas holidays, ZLC visited some vulnerable members of the Zimbabwean community who have been struggling with various issues including being on asylum for many years and not being able to travel back home for the bereavement of close ones. ZLC chairperson Chris Goshomi said among many objectives of the organization, one of its main aims was to mobilize and bring the people of Zimbabwe who live in the West Yorkshire area together, and build a diverse, but centralized community of Zimbabwean people who are able to support each other in times of need. “The Zimbabwean people in West Yorkshire area have come to understand that the process of migration can be stressful depending on the type and cause of migration, and has far-reaching negative effects on the socioeconomic circumstances, and health and wellbeing of the migrating individuals and their families. “In an attempt to address some of the contemporary challenges among the community membership, ZLC this year took advantage of its ballooning membership to crowd fund , buy some Christmas goodies for its vulnerable groups, which included those who are less fortunate, like some new migrant workers and students who are not yet fully financially established, the elderly people, the disabled, and those in health challenges and are not able to work,” Goshomi said. He also said the opportunity was an enriching experience to understand the level of scope ZLC had to benefit communities. “I went in a team of ten colleagues and spent all afternoon delivering groceries, clothes and other items to people in need, as well as having time to talk to the communities,” Goshomi said. The organization is currently working on the formal registration for ZLC as a charity with the Charities Commission for which it has created a registration team which consists of lawyers in the Zimbabwe Community and other supporting members with experience in establishing charities. They are also looking at how they can increase revenue to build the Zimbabwe Community Centre which Goshomi said is the long-term plan. Beverly Bizeki Conflicts circling around the Ndawi headmanship were on Friday (January 13, 2023) silenced after 88-year-old Tocksen Zviripi was finally installed Headman Ndawi at a colorful event held at Ndawi Primary School in ward 31 in Gutu. Addressing attendees at the event FarmBiz co-director Misheck Maravanyika who is Zviripi's son told the gathering that the installation of the headman marked the end of the conflicts around the issue. "There is something disturbing that happens in our area. Ndawi has 5 houses and it’s not possible to have a gathering and fail to find one of them Zvekuti munhu anovhura muromo wekumusoro nezasi achitaura kuti hapana ishe zvigume nhasi, (the habit of saying that there is no headman in this area must come to an end),” said Maravanyika. Maravanyika who later dismissed the matter as personal and emotional to the Ndawi family urged the family to work together in keeping the headmanship alive. "Our headmanship is claimed by the oldest father figure Headman Ndawi installed in the family at the moment and my father hails from Tavatsvanga hence he is being installed as headman today," said Maravanyika. Maravanyika also urged members from the other Ndawi clan to unite and uphold the chieftainship and develop the area. The last incumbent headman according to Maravanyika was Chibwanya who sat on the throne up to 2014 when he died and was succeeded by Pingurai as derera (acting) up to 2019 when selections were made. Tobias Jaravaza was selected but was never installed probably due to Covid-19 restrictions until he died. Zviripi was selected and appointed headman on November 25, 2022 and installed today. In his closing remarks, Chief Gutu born Amon Edmond Masanganise urged members from the five families to bring an end to any conflicts and heed the leadership of the new Headman Zviripi. "We expect all the Ndawi families to appreciate the new leadership we have appointed despite all the differences and conflicts that you might have had. "The one who has been appointed is your leader but you are all belong to the royal family," said Gutu. Gutu Deputy District Development Coordinator Chiedza Tafirei wished the new headman success in his new position. "The headmen supervises village heads in the performance of their duties. It is also his mandate to oversee the collection of development levies, taxes, rates and charges payable to Rural District Council in terms of the Rural District Councils Act," said Tafirei. Zviripi who is a former sales man at Farmers Co-op has 15 children, 24 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. The Ndawi area which has been described as one of the developed areas in Gutu has 11 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 3 clinics and 11 business centres. ZLC commitee visiting a vulnerable community member Chief Gutu Edmund Masanganise Installing Headman Ndawi (Seated) Tocksen Zviripi
News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 Murder suspect Tafadzwa Kanengoni Masvingo legal practitioners, NECs and Journalists follow proceedings during the IECMS training JSC secretary Walter Chikwanha, High court judges Justice Mawadze and Zisengwe flank Justice Rita Makarau as they pose for a photo with Masvingo legal practitioners Cows are finally home:Lorrine Chitsika poses for pictures with her family members. (left) and her partner Kudzaishe Sibiya on lobola day.
14 News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 TellZim Reporter Crime rate in Masvingo province went up by 13 percent in 2022, with the most prevalent crimes being murder, armed robberies involving firearms, stock theft as well as theft of copper cables. This came out during the official opening of the 2023 legal year at Masvingo High Court by Supreme Court Judge Justice Rita Makarau on January 9. Addressing guests at the event, Justice Makarau said a briefing she received from the officer Commanding Masvingo Province indicated that general crime had gone up by 13 percent from the previous year, which has a negative effect on social and economic development. “Of immediate concern is that general crime in the province has gone up by 13percent from last year. The prevalent crimes in the province of Masvingo are murder, armed robberies involving firearms, stock theft and theft of copper cables. “These prevalent offenses have the effect of retarding social and economic development in the province and effort must therefore be taken by all of us here present to play whatever roles we can as a community to reduce crime in the province of Masvingo,” Justice Makarau said. She also commended both Masvingo High and Magistrates courts for completing most of the cases filed and received, leaving a relatively smaller number of cases yet to be completed. “I am pleased to report that notwithstanding the increase in the number of cases filed with the courts, 2022 has been fairly congenial year for both the High Court and the Magistrates courts in Masvingo. “The High Court performed well despite the fact that it was manned by only two instead of the usual three judges. A total of 2059 cases were filed with the Court during the course of the year. 58 cases were brought forward from 2021, making the grand total for the year 2117 cases. Out of these, 2094 cases were completed leaving only 23 cases that will be carried forward into 2023,” Makarau said. A total of 7799 cases were also received in the magistrates courts in 2022, which saw the completion of 7795 cases, with 5572 cases completed in the civil division. “I commend the magistrates for a very pleasing 2022,” she said. Statistics from customary law courts were not documented. Masvingo crime rate up 13 percent Tinaani Nyabereka Shurugwi –In a j e a l o u s y - d r i v e n case, a Shurugwi woman was found lying in a pool of blood at her homestead during the early hours of the morning on January 10, 2022 after being allegedly murdered by her ex-husband. The incident occurred in Mutamba village under Chief Nhema in Shurugwi. The body of Lubitsi Mubita (39) was discovered in the bedroom at around 0700 hours by her husband Lawrence Hungwe (48) when he arrived home from a visit. Her ex-husband Rangarirai Mukoko (48) who hails from the same area has been picked up by police as a suspect in the case following information that he was seen around the area the same morning. Reports has it that he had been pushing for a reconciliation with Mubita. The now deceased sustained multiple stab wounds all over the body. However, a blood stained chisel suspected to have been used in commission of the offence was recovered from the suspect and police investigations are underway. Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Mahoko confirmed the development. "The body of the deceased is being held at Shurugwi District Hospital mortuary awaiting post mortem,” said Mahoko. Yeukai Munetsi Gweru-A 27 year-old man was recently found hanging on a tree by a passerby near Gweru River Bridge along the Harare -Bulawayo highway. The incident took place on January 11, 2023 around 0700 hours. It is reported that a passerby was on his way to Gweru Central Business District (CBD) when he discovered the body of a man later on identified as Paul Sigauke (27) of Chikanga village, Headman Chivhenge under Chief Mutema in Chipinge hanging from a tree. The passerby reported the matter to police who then attended the scene. The now deceased's body was ferried to Gweru Provincial Hospital awaiting post-mortem as investigations are still ongoing. Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko has since appealed to members of the public to engage relatives or friends if any matters arise. "Police are appealing to members of the public to consider sharing their problems with a trusted friend or relative. "We also urge people to make use of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Community Relations Liaison Offices located at every police station for assistance rather than taking own lives,” said Mahoko. Shurugwi man kills ex-wife in cold blood Gweru man hangs self along Harare road Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Mahoko Justice Rita Makarau (center) flanked by Justice Mawadze and Zisengwe, JSC secretary Walter Chikwanha (in suit) and Chiefs’ council president Fortune Charumbira
TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023 News 15 Tinaani Nyabereka Gweru-Five suspects were recently arrested for stock theft in a case involving 35 cattle believed to have been stolen from Gilman Farm located in Lower Gweru. Midlands Provincial Police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrests and appealed to members of the public to continue working with police providing information pertaining to criminal activities in their areas. "A total of 33 cattle were recovered and the accused persons were taken to court for initial court appearances and remanded in custody. "Once again the police would like to applaud members of the public for supplying helpful information which may lead to the arrest of the remaining two suspects. "Farmers are urged to quickly make police reports when they suspect their stock has been stolen. In addition, farmers have to be watchful of the activities of their farm workers," he said. The arrested suspects are Busisani Sibanda (39) of Drawcard Farm, Vungu Lower Gweru, Emmanuel Moyo (40) of Mantiya village, Chief Bunina, Lower Gweru, Ephraim Mazinyame (40) of Mantiya village, Takurai Gumbo (53 )of Ensors Farm Vungu, Lower Gweru and Chikomborero Calvin Gumbo (25) of Ensors Farm Vungu, Lower Gweru. The cattle were stolen on two different occasions between September 1, 2022 and November 5, 2022. It is said a barbed wire was cut so as to drive the cattle out and that was discovered by one of the workers and a report was made to the police. Police acted on a tip off leading to the arrest of Busisani Sibanda and three beasts were recovered from him. By then Sibanda had already rebranded the stolen beasts. Further investigations led to the arrest of one of the farm workers Takurai Gumbo and his son Chikomborero Calvin Gumbo where eight cattle were recovered from them. The remaining 22 cattle were recovered from local farmers who had bought them from the suspects. It was also established that one of the suspects Emmanuel Moyo was on the run for an attempted murder he committed at Fort Rixon. 5 stock theft suspects nabbed TellZim Reporter Masvingo police have nabbed a 39 year-old man in connection with last Saturday’s shooting and killing of a tuck shop owner during a suspected robbery incident. The suspect Tafadzwa Kanengoni was arrested in Zvishavane four days after the killing in cold blood of Mike Munhungowarwa (41) in Sisk area of Mucheke suburb. Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident. “I can confirm that after the shooting incident that occurred in Mucheke on Saturday (January 7), our Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers made investigations into the case which pointed to the accused Tafadzwa Kanengoni. Our officers tracked and caught up with Kanengoni in Zvishavane at the residence believed to be that of his girlfriend. “After the arrest in Zvishavane, Kanengoni was brought back to Masvingo for indications after which he tried to escape from police custody leading to the shoot out incident,” said Dhewa. Kanengoni tried to run away from the CID officers who then shot him on one of his feet leading to his re-arrest. Dhewa also confirmed that Kanengoni is an ex-convict who was released from prison in November last year (2022) before he stole the firearm which he was now using at a shop in Masvingo Central Business District (CBD). Kanengoni is alleged to have robbed a female Target Kopje resident of US $500 sometime last year using the firearm though no shooting took place as he just used to the weapon to subdue his victim. During the Sisk incident, Kanengoni is reported to have demanded cash from the now late Munhungowarwa who gave in to the demand before shooting the latter in cold blood after which he vanished from the scene. Dhewa however warned would-be criminals to make up their choices before engaging in crime as he says Masvingo is no safe haven for criminals. “We appeal to members of the public to continue closely working with the police through providing vital information with regards to criminal activities in the areas. However, at the same time let us warn all and would-be criminals to desist from trying to earn a living from proceeds of crime and bear in mind that Masvingo is no safe haven for criminals,” Dhewa said. Kanengoni made routine court appearance on January 14 at Masvingo Magistrate court Mucheke tuck shop murder suspect nabbed The suspect Tafadzwa Kanengoni in yellow track bottom Masvingo Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa
News TELLZIM News >> 13 - 19 Jan 2023
TellZim Sport 13 - 19 Jan 2023 Inspiration Tennis Academy scoops 27 medals Fredrick Moyo Masvingo-based Inspiration Tennis Academy (ITA) scooped 27 medals in two different tennis tournaments namely Anne Martin Mantas Junior Open (national tournament) and Masvingo Open that were played on December 13-16 2022 and January 4-7, 2023 respectively. The tournaments were played in different age group categories. Mantas tournament was hosted at Mutare Girls High while the Masvingo Open tournament was hosted at Kyle College. Speaking to TellZim N e w s , ITA founder and head coach Privy Fanisai thanked parents for the motivation and support they are giving to their children as tennis is expensive to sponsor. “I would like to thank the parents for supporting their kids in this sport. Tennis is expensive to sponsor and demands a lot of resources but the parents have been and are there for their kids. Without these supportive parents, the kids would be struggling. I also want to thank the players for the effort and fighting spirit they are showing,” said Fanisai. She added that she was really happy with the performance her academy showed at both tournaments. “I am happy with the medals that we managed to collect and also the performance the players put up at the tournaments, it shows they are improving day by day. “These tournaments are important for our academy as kids meet different people from different places. Players can have opportunities for even foreign scholarships and chances to be in the national team as they will be having the exposure and also after participating at the tournaments, they are given points that will also assist them in making it to the national team. So it is an opportunity for our players to showcase and develop their talents,” added Fanisai. Recently, ITA player and Ndarama High School student Morgan Mkwanilla was selected to be part of Zimbabwe Under 16 boys tennis team. “This means a lot to us as ITA and Masvingo Province that one of our own product is representing the National team at a younger age, its proves that the kids are working hard and they know what they want to achieve in the future, said Fanisai. In the Anne Martin tournament seven participants namely Junior Sitemere, Zvaitwa Sitemere, Lucia Sitemere, Atipaishe Nyadoro, Ropafadzo Muyedzengwa, Mazvita Gava and Anotidaishe Mabaura won 8 medals (2 gold, 5 silver and 1 bronze). While they won 19 medals in the Masvingo Open comprising of 10 gold, 4 silver and 5 bronze medals form 14 participants namely Mazvita Gava, Anopaishe Nyandoro, Zvaitwa Sitemete, Lucia Sitemere, Willstaff Sitemere, Ruvarashe Chinhiya, Morgan Mkwanilla, Tatenda Dehwe, Anotidaishe Mbaura, Ropafadzo Muyedzengwa, Blessing Saravoye, Christwish Mkwenje, Nenyasha Mkwenje and Christable Mkwenje. Coach Privy Fanisai Morgan Mkwanilla