Advocate Thabani Mpofu has called on the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) to dissociate itself from an event sponsored by Kuda Tagwirei, which led to the cancellation of Winky D’s New Year’s Eve performance at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC).
According to ZimLive, Tagwirei, through his Bridging Gaps Foundation, paid the Rainbow Tourism Group US$245,000 to use the HICC during the time Winky D had booked the venue.
The foundation reserved the venue on behalf of the SDA Church, of which Tagwirei is a devoted member.
Advocate Mpofu, also a member of the SDA Church but aligned with Nelson Chamisa rather than ZANU PF, criticized the move.
Earlier this month, Winky D’s legal counsel, Tsunga Law International, stated that the venue owners decided to prioritize another event on December 31, 2024, despite an established agreement with Winky D.
The law firm claimed that the venue had been secured gor Winky D’s show as early as May 2024, with all necessary arrangements in place for the show.
Posting on X this Friday, Advocate Mpofu condemned the use of financial power to act against the public interest. Below are Advocate Mpofu’s comments:
<blockquote>
I’m compelled to share my genuine substantive concerns about the Winky D, Tagwireyi and HICC saga.
It appears that Tagwireyi, through his Bridging Gaps foundation, (which on the evidence has created more gaps than it has bridged), made a lucrative offer to HICC, essentially enticing them to abandon their long-standing partnership with Winky D.
The offer according to ZIMLIVE included booking a massive 200 rooms for five days, which translates to accommodating 200 couples (possibly threatening the city’s entire supply of Congo Dust) at the expense of more than 8000 poor Zimbabweans who were eagerly awaiting Winky D’s performance.
Winky D’s performances are as we all know, therapeutic as they are emancipating and are for that reason not just a musical journey but constitute much needed balm for the bruised and broken souls of those trampled upon.
This situation raises serious moral concerns. It highlights how the financially powerful can exert their influence to get what they want, even if it goes against the public interest.
Put differently, not only are they able to drive you to penury but they can also then use their muscle to rob you of your only source of solace. This sets a dire precedent and must drive fear into our broken hearts.
What then is to stop the financially powerful from buying off lawyers representing their opponents, bribing judges or adjudicators in public procurement or generally exploiting vulnerable individuals simply because they can and because it makes economic sense for the person(s) receiving the money to take it? 
Indeed, what is to stop them from taking your wife simply because they are able to offer more? This is more sinister than the superficial commentary on these streets makes out.
This disregard for principles is alarming. In a civilized society, right must triumph over might, and we must respect the soft territory of others even if they are financially weaker than us. This does not require written rules or concluded contracts. It is a matter of common decency.
Winky D has an obligation to satisfy the expectations of his fans. For an entire year, the fans have been eagerly anticipating this annual celebration and solace, only to be deprived of it because someone with greater economic power has swooped in.
This is unacceptable and has no place in a fair and just society. This is why it is wrong. This is why all civilized sentiment must rage against it. This is why I condemn it without equivocation.
And a religious organization must never get entangled in this kind of nonsense. Wapusa Wapusa was able to avoid it for the entire duration of its phantom existence!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Advocate Mpofu is upset because a church event headlined by Kuda Tagwirei got Winky D's concert at HICC canceled. Tagwirei paid a lot of money for the venue, leaving Winky D out. Mpofu does not like rich people using money to control things. Winky D's lawyers said the venue was booked for him first. Mpofu thinks it's wrong for the rich to take what they want, especially when it hurts others. He wants everyone to stand up against this unfair behavior. And he doesn't want the church to be a part of it.

Advocate Mpofu Condemns Use Of Financial Muscle To Cancel Winky D's HICC Concert

Top lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu said the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) ceased to be a valid currency as of October 5, 2024.
He criticised the government’s recent attempt to revive the currency through the Finance Act on Sunday, October 27, calling it futile since the ZiG had already lost its validity.
In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Mpofu urged the government to acknowledge its mismanagement of the currency issue and take corrective action. Said Mpofu:
<blockquote>
As of October 4, 2024, the statutory instrument that introduced the ZIG currency expired without extension. Consequently, from October 5, 2024, the ZIG ceased to be a valid currency in Zimbabwe, leaving the US dollar as the sole currency.
In a belated but incompetent attempt, authorities tried to revive the ZIG through the Finance Act on Sunday October 27, 2024 (This had been hinted on in the Friday Gazette but the Act had not been published). However, this effort was futile since the ZIG had already lost its validity.
Moreover, Section 21 of the Finance Act’s attempt to retroactively validate the ZIG is unlawful, as it contradicts Section 6 of the Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) Act.
The explicit reference to the expired statutory instrument in Section 21 only reinforces this illegality in that it establishes the connection between the S.I and the Act (A clever person would have avoided that connection).
This is a festival of illegalities and absurdities. Government should take responsibility, apologize and implement a lawful solution – one that fortunately exists.
</blockquote>
An economist who spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034212/zim-runs-with-expired-currency">NewsDay</a> on Sunday night suggested that the government’s “inertia” indicates a deliberate effort to sabotage the ZiG. Said the expert:
<blockquote>
The inertia shows that government is sabotaging the ZiG. A country that wants to promote the use of a local currency under the de-dollarisation roadmap should not be making these schoolboy blunders.
What will government do if shops refuse accepting the ZiG? We are skating on thin ice and the sooner we act, the better.
</blockquote>
The local currency has undergone six name changes but has yet to achieve stability, confidence, trust, or sustainability.
Its previous iterations include the original currency post-independence, that is, the Zimbabwe dollar, then later bearers’ cheques, traveller’s cheques, bond notes, RTGS dollars, and now ZiG.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government must admit that the currency ZiG is no longer valid and take action to fix the problem according to lawyer Thabani Mpofu. The Finance Act's attempt to revive ZiG is pointless because the currency lost validity on October 5, 2024. An economist believes the government's inaction is deliberate sabotage of ZiG. Zimbabwe has had many currency changes but none have been stable, trusted, or sustainable. It is important for the government to acknowledge their mistakes and implement a lawful solution to the currency issues.

"Government Must Admit ZiG Lost Validity And Take Corrective Action"

The Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency is no longer considered legal tender, as the law governing it lapsed on October 4, according to top lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu.
Introduced on April 5, 2024, the gold-backed currency was the country’s sixth attempt to establish a stable monetary system in the past 15 years.
Mpofu said on Saturday that the ZiG has officially lost its status as legal tender, leaving questions about the implications for the economy and the future of currency in Zimbabwe. Mpofu posted on X:
<blockquote>
Unless I missed the law when it was promulgated, the ZIG is no longer currency.
The ZIG was operationalised by the promulgation of the Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) (Amendment of Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Act and Issue of Zimbabwe Gold Notes and Coins) Regulations, 2024.
By law, a statutory instrument promulgated in terms of the Presidential Powers Act lapses at the end of 6 months unless prior to its lapse, the instrument is validated by primary legislation.
In this case, the 6 months would have lapsed on the 4th of October 2024. This means that by the end of that day, the ZIG ceased to be currency.
It is not possible for the statutory instrument once it has lapsed to be validated by legislation. Further, the statutory instrument having lapsed no further regulations identical to the lapsed ones can be promulgated within 6 months of such lapse.
This means that no Statutory Instrument extending the life of ZIG can be issued in terms of the Presidential Powers Act.
For these reasons, the ZIG is no longer legal tender. The consequences are immense. I think we have a big problem on our hands. (I sincerely hope for the life of me that the authorities did the needful. If they didn’t, this needs to be fixed by the only lawful way available).
</blockquote>
Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti agreed with Advocate Mpofu that the ZiG is no longer legal tender. He said:
<blockquote>
Advocate Thabani Mpofu is 100% correct. ZiG is no longer a currency because the six months have lapsed.
So, Parliament must amend the the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Act for the ZiG to become a currency not the President.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034212/zim-runs-with-expired-currency">NewsDay</a>, the government has been working on new legislation to support the introduction of the ZiG, anticipating the lapse of the statutory instrument after six months. The Finance Bill H.B. 8, 2024, amends existing laws to facilitate the introduction of the ZiG.
The Bill states that ZiG notes and coins will be recognized as official currency under section 44D (2) of the Principal Act.
It passed through the Senate about two weeks ago and now awaits President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s signature to become law.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The ZiG currency in Zimbabwe is no longer considered legal money because the law that allowed it to be currency expired on October 4th. This was the sixth attempt in 15 years to create a stable currency system. A top lawyer named Advocate Thabani Mpofu confirmed this. Unless Parliament makes new laws, the ZiG can't be used anymore. The government is working on new laws to make ZiG legal again. Once these new laws are approved, ZiG notes and coins will be accepted as money again. President Emmerson Mnangagwa needs to sign these new laws first.

ZIG Ceased To Be Legal Tender On 04 October - Top Lawyer

Advocate Thabani Mpofu, who represented then-MDC Alliance presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa in the 2018 presidential election challenge at the Constitutional Court, has dismissed the collation of the 2023 presidential election results published by Freeman Chari.
Chari, a US-based software engineer and long-time opposition activist, had claimed to have collated results from 84% of the V11 forms (the official vote tallying forms) and asserted that President Emmerson Mnangagwa won the election by well over 50%.
In a statement released on Friday, August 23, 2024 – exactly one year after the polls – Chari said his team had “done the best we could to collate results” and that citizens had “amazingly” sent in V11 forms from their polling stations.
He stated that within the first two days, they had collated about 75% of the polling stations, eventually reaching 10,250 stations, representing around 84% of all polling stations used. Said Chari:
<blockquote>
We did the best we could to collate results. And citizens did amazingly great by sending us the V11s from their polling stations.
Within the first 2 days, we had collated about 75% of the polling stations. We eventually were able to collate 10 250 polling stations in which we could verify their results.
These represent about 84% of all polling stations used. We did receive a lot of results from other polling stations which we could not authenticate or verify…
We got a lot of dubious results from Mashonaland East, Central and West. Those polling stations have been excluded.
</blockquote>
However, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, August 26, Mpofu strongly dismissed Chari’s election results. 
He argued that the figures published by Chari were the same “compromised” results that had been released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
Furthermore, Mpofu rejected Chari’s claim that he had utilised an election-monitoring app, Mandla, during the voting process, saying the app was never actually deployed. Said Mpofu:
<blockquote>
The results published by Freeman Chari are explicitly identified as ZEC results, derived from the stamped V11 forms, which have been compromised. These results merely confirm what we already know and do not provide any new insights.
Importantly, since these results are from ZEC itself, they cannot be used to validate the accuracy of ZEC’s own announcements. August 2023 remains a fraud.
Interesting fact: Freeman Chari and MANDLA were never affiliated or associated with each other. Moreover, MANDLA was never actually deployed or utilized in any capacity in August 2023.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, UK-based Zimbabwean lawyer Brighton Mutebuka said Chari and his team for “an exceptional job under extremely hazardous circumstances.” He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Take Aways From The Partial Zim August 23 Election Results Published By Freeman Chari
1. Freeman &amp; his team did an exceptional job under extremely hazardous circumstances.
2. They tried to deploy technology, ingenuity, hard work &amp; teamwork to outsmart the regime.
3. Covering verified 84% of the Polling Stations to a high degree of accuracy is highly impressive given the conditions on the ground. They nearly achieved the impossible.
4. The remaining 16% is perhaps the last yard in achieving the impossible dream.
5. Great scientific, human &amp; technological resources can be deployed to cover that ground if the commitment is there to achieve democratic change in our lifetime.
6. Great care should be taken to ensure that in looking at these “results”, we don’t forget the following.
7. FAZ’s strategy in brazenly intimidating villagers in rural areas through noting down their names before &amp; after voting at Polling Stations. Some registered voters in opposition strongholds were even turned away.
8. ZEC’s criminal conduct in conspiring to disenfranchise huge numbers of registered votes in Harare, Bulawayo &amp; other opposition strongholds via very late deliveries of ballot papers &amp; botching extending the voting time.
9. Charges of FAZ manned Polling Stations sprouting last minute in hidden &amp; inaccessible locations, including farms of War Vets &amp; ZANU PF politicians.
10. The above should be revisited once the ground has shifted so criminal charges can be preferred.
11. The above means that the scale of the prejudice cannot be numerically quantified, rendering the result a sham.
12. ZEC itself failed to publish verifiable results.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In simple words, a lawyer named Mpofu is saying that the results of the 2023 presidential election published by Chari are not accurate. Chari claimed that Mnangagwa won the election, but Mpofu said the numbers are not trustworthy. Mpofu also said that an app called Mandla was not used during the voting process, even though Chari claimed it was. Another lawyer, Mutebuka, praised Chari for his work, but also pointed out some problems with the election process. Overall, there are doubts about the accuracy of the election results.

Chamisa's Lawyer Dismisses Freeman Chari's 2023 Vote Tally

Zimbabwean lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu has written to the Heads of State of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), urging them to publicly and formally condemn the remarks made by the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lt. General Anseelem Sanyatwe, regarding the military’s involvement in electoral processes in support of the ruling ZANU PF party.
In late June 2024, Lt. General Sanyatwe was quoted as stating that the army will employ “command voting” in elections and that the ruling ZANU-PF party would “rule forever.”
In a letter dated August 1, 2024, and addressed to SADC, Mpofu requested the regional organization to pressure President Emmerson Mnangagwa to provide a credible assurance that Zimbabwe’s electoral processes will be demilitarized and that concrete steps will be taken to respect the will of the Zimbabwean people. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
Date, 1 August, 2024
Your Excellencies,
To the esteemed Heads of State of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), I am writing to you as a concerned citizen of Zimbabwe, ahead of the upcoming SADC Summit in August 2024.
I bring to your attention a matter of grave concern that threatens the very fabric of our democracy as the people of Zimbabwe.
I am deeply concerned by the continued shrinking of democratic space in Zimbabwe particularly in the context of certain utterances recently made by the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lt General Anseelem Sanyatwe.
Those remarks complement ZANU PF’s ongoing and unrestrained assault on our fundamental freedoms, the highest manifestation of which was in the sham 2023 harmonized elections, already the subject of adverse appraisal by the SEOM.
I find these chilling remarks unfortunate and anathematic to the values espoused by the SADC Treaty. They are for that reason, completely unacceptable.
The remarks that have alarmed me were delivered at a ZANU PF political rally, itself a no-go area for a member of the security forces by reason of section 208(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, 2013. Lt General Sanyatwe said:
“… ZANU (PF) shall rule until donkeys grow horns, whatever your stated and expressed wishes. I am now speaking as the Commander of the Army. We shall use what is called Command Voting… Do we understand each other? Forward with ZANU PF, Forward with (PF)…Forward with ED Mnangagwa. Down with the enemy”
Utterances of this kind, strip us of our dignity, reduce us to contempt, deprive us of our basic rights, are insulting and must justifiably be considered provocative and are for that reason a threat to national peace.
Further, this blatant disregard for the will of the people of Zimbabwe can only erode the legitimacy of an already undermined electoral process and has the effect of threatening the stability not just of our nation but of the sub-region. In addition, it is a signal breach of Articles 4(c), 5(1)(b) and (c) and 6(4) of the SADC Treaty.
I have raised these issues with General Sanyatwe in terms of written correspondence. The nonchalant impunity that induced these utterances has extended to the adoption of reticence in the face of what is undoubtedly a potential powder keg.
Similarly, I have approached the Electoral Commission which has taken a disinterested approach to the matter, hiding behind contrived but telling nonsense. The correspondence exchanged is attached.
The bottom line is that the utterances remain on record without condemnation and are as you are aware, a repeat of what Lt General Vitalis Zvinavashe said two decades ago. I am worried that this seems to be the official position of the principals of our Army.
Neither has Mr Mnangagwa taken any action against his errant General for the unconstitutional remarks made in his name and for his direct benefit.
SADC is enjoined by Article 23(2) to support the initiatives of the people of Zimbabwe which contribute to the objectives of the Treaty.
To that end, I urge you, your Excellencies, to take concrete but lawful action against Zimbabwe at the August Summit. I ask whether you may:
(a) Publicly and formally condemn, consistent with the SEOM report on the 2023 harmonized elections, the military’s statements and emphasize the importance of respecting the will of the people of Zimbabwe.
(b) Extract from your colleague, Mr Mnangagwa a credible assurance that Zimbabwe’s electoral processes will be demilitarized and that concrete steps will be taken to respect the will of the people of Zimbabwe. This has not happened in our country since 1980, a taint that does not attach to your respective countries and their processes.
(c) Offer support for the democratization of Zimbabwe’s political processes which includes but is not limited to the unconditional release of Jameson Timba together with the Avondale 78, who are currently imprisoned.
(d) Find out what action your colleague, Mr Mnangagwa, will take against his errant General.
As leaders of SADC, I urge you to consider that you hold office by reason of effectual processes in your respective countries that ensure as a minimum, respect for the expressed will of the people.
There is no reason Zimbabweans must live in a country that does not uphold the values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
As you ponder on my plea, please take sensitive consideration of the fact that your to be host is currently engaged in an attempt to unconstitutionally extend his term of office. This, as far as I am aware, none of you are contemplating doing.
This illegitimate extension will obviously be done on the back of a disrespect not just of the institutions of our country but quintessentially, of the sanctity of the vote.
In that context, General Sanyatwe’s utterances assume ascending importance and must justifiably detain your Excellencies.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely
Thabani Mpofu
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Advocate Thabani Mpofu wants SADC leaders to speak out against a Zimbabwe army commander's comments about using the military in elections. The commander said the ruling ZANU-PF party will rule forever with "command voting." Mpofu is worried about threats to democracy and wants SADC to pressure President Mnangagwa to ensure fair elections. He wants SADC to condemn the army's statements, demilitarize elections, and support democracy in Zimbabwe. Mpofu is asking for action to protect the will of Zimbabwean people and uphold democratic values.

Thabani Mpofu Urges SADC To Condemn Zimbabwe Army Commander's "Command Voting" Comments

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has responded to a request from lawyer Thabani Mpofu to publicly condemn the claims made by Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe regarding the military’s ability to impose “command voting” in elections.
Last month, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander, Lt. General Sanyatwe, was quoted as stating that the army will employ “command voting” in elections and that the ruling ZANU-PF party would “rule forever.”
In a letter dated 12 July 2024, Mpofu challenged ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba to issue a firm public statement refuting Sanyatwe’s claims and providing assurances that ZEC is not beholden to or influenced by the army’s directives.
Mpofu gave Chigumba a seven-day deadline to address Lt. General Sanyatwe’s assertions about the military’s ability to manipulate the electoral process.
In response, ZEC chief elections officer Utoile Silaigwana, in a letter dated 19 July 2024, stated that it is the duty of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to investigate crimes and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prosecute offenders.
Silaigwana argued that ZEC cannot condemn an alleged act of electoral malpractice pending proper investigation and conviction using the procedures prescribed by law. Wrote Silaigwana:
<blockquote>
We acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 12 July 2024 and note the contents thereof which allege the commission of an electoral malpractice.
As I am sure you are well aware, the core function of the Commission is that of election management. While the obligation to implement provisions of the Electoral Act is that of the Commission, the investigation and prosecution of electoral offences created by the law does not fall within its remit.
The investigation functions are constitutionally allocated to the Zimbabwe Republic Police while the power to institute criminal procedures lies with the National Prosecuting Authority.
The Commission feels that it cannot condemn an alleged act of electoral malpractice pending proper investigation and conviction using the procedures prescribed by law.
</blockquote>
Mpofu has shared the letter on his X page (formerly Twitter) with a critical commentary.
In his caption, Mpofu noted that “In ZEC’s considered opinion, a reasonable suspicion exists that Gen Sanyatwe’s comments constitute a criminal offence.”
However, he argued that this view “still falls far short of condemnation of his utterances” and does not “repair ZEC’s tattered credibility.”
Mpofu concluded his post by stating that he is “proceeding with cautious haste,” implying that he intends to take further action against ZEC’s refusal to condemn Sanyatwe’s utterances.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) responded to Thabani Mpofu's request to denounce Lt. General Sanyatwe's claims about "command voting" in elections. Lt. General Sanyatwe said the army can make people vote a certain way and ZANU-PF will rule forever. Mpofu asked ZEC to say this is not true. ZEC said it is the police and prosecutors' job to investigate and punish crimes, not theirs. Mpofu thinks ZEC should do more to stop Sanyatwe's actions. He may take more action against ZEC.

ZEC Responds To Thabani Mpofu's Request to Denounce Lt. General Sanyatwe's "Command Voting" Claims

Prominent lawyer and advocate Thabani Mpofu has written a letter to the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Justice Priscilla Chigumba, challenging her to publicly refute the claims made by Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe regarding the military’s ability to impose “command voting.”
Last month, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander, Lt. General Sanyatwe, was quoted as stating that the army will employ “command voting” in elections and that the ruling ZANU PF party would “rule forever.”
In a letter dated July 12, 2024, Mpofu demanded that Chigumba issue a firm public statement refuting Sanyatwe’s claims and providing assurances that ZEC is not beholden to or influenced by the army’s directives.
Mpofu has given Chigumba a seven-day deadline to address Lt. General Sanyatwe’s assertions about the military’s ability to manipulate the electoral process to ensure ZANU PF’s perpetual rule in Zimbabwe. Wrote Mpofu:
<blockquote>
I am writing to bring to your attention concerning remarks made by General Sanyatwe, the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army about elections in Zimbabwe. I have in my possession videographic evidence of him uttering words to the following effect:
“… Zanu (PF) shall rule until donkeys grow horns, whatever your stated and expressed wishes. I am now speaking as the Commander of the Army. We shall use what is called Command Voting. . . Do we understand each other?”
In these remarks, General Sanyatwe not only wades into issues beyond his constitutional remit but also asserts, his as well as the army’s preparedness to undermine the vote and not respect its sanctity. Your Commission’s ability to deliver a credible election has been put in issue by remarks that suggest its complicity in undermining the popular will.
I wonder whether there is any truth to the sting of General Sanyatwe’s assertion.
If you consider this assertion false, I kindly request that you publicly refute it with a firm assurance that your commission is not on the army’s back and call.
If you choose reticence, I kindly request that you account for it, the statement considered. General Sanyatwe’s statement undermines the trust and confidence of the electorate in the electoral process. This as you are aware, has been no small issue.
A clear and prompt refutation of this assertion will help to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and reassure the public that the Electoral Commission is committed to upholding the sanctity of the vote.
Your attention is drawn to sections 155(1), 156(c)(i), 233 and 239 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, 2013 and to the obligations that have been triggered by this tainted tale.
The failure to call out this constitutional delinquency most indubitably has consequences.
I would appreciate your attention to this grave matter within 7 days.
</blockquote>
On July 3, 2024, Mpofu wrote to Sanyatwe demanding an unequivocal withdrawal of his previous remarks regarding the military’s ability to employ “command voting” to ensure ZANU PF’s perpetual rule.
Mpofu stated that Sanyatwe’s comments violated Zimbabwe’s national constitution, the Defence Act, and the Electoral Act, and he gave the military leader a seven-day deadline to retract his claims.
Today, Mpofu has reiterated his demand, clarifying that he is giving Sanyatwe a full seven days, excluding weekends, to publicly retract his statements.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Lawyer Thabani Mpofu is challenging ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, to say that the military can't control voting. A general said the army would use "command voting" to keep the ruling party in power. Mpofu wants Chigumba to deny this claim. He also asked the general to take back his words. Mpofu thinks these statements break the laws. He gave them both a week to correct their words. Mpofu wants to make sure voting is fair and honest.

Lawyer Thabani Mpofu Calls On ZEC Chairperson To Refute General Sanyatwe's "Command Voting" Remarks

Advocate Thabani Mpofu has written to Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, demanding an unequivocal withdrawal of statements he (Sanyatwe) at a recent ZANU PF rally in Nyanga.
In a video that has surfaced, Sanyatwe is heard asserting that ZANU PF will rule forever, with the military prepared to use force to ensure voters support the party. He also mentioned the enforcement of “command voting” during his address to villagers.
In the letter dated July 03 2024, Mpofu said Sanyatwe’s comments violated Zimbabwe’s national constitution, the Defence Act, and the Electoral Act.
Mpofu further stated that should Sanyatwe fail to retract his statements within seven days of receiving the letter, he will pursue legal remedies as provided by law. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Sir, it has come to my attention that you have been recorded addressing a gathering of multitudes in the following manner (per my translation):
“… Zanu (PF) shall rule until donkeys grow horns, whatever your stated and expressed wishes. I am now speaking as the Commander of the Army. We shall use what is called Command Voting. . . Do we understand each other? Forward with Zanu (PF), Forward with (PF)… Forward with ED Mnangagwa. Down with the enemy”
I consider the above statements to be a violation of:
1. Section 208(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe in that you as a member of a security service (the Zimbabwe National Army):
a. In so uttering such statements in a public gathering, acted in a partisan manner.
b. Furthered the interests of a political party – ZANU (PF).
c. Prejudiced the lawful interests of a legitimate political cause – opposition to ZANU (PF). Going so far as viewing your own people, who depend on you for protection, as enemies.
2. Section 155 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13), by threatening to rig elections in favour of ZANU (PF) and against the opposition.
3. The First Schedule to the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02) in that your conduct in uttering the above statements was unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman as it amounted to willful and wanton violation of the Constitution and laws of Zimbabwe.
Sir, I, therefore, write to demand, as I now do, that you unreservedly withdraw your above statements within seven (7) days of your receipt of this letter, failing which I shall take steps to ensure that appropriate remedies under law are put in motion.
</blockquote>
According to a report, Sanyatwe became the first ZNA commander to address a rally on partisan lines, the first to do party slogans in public, the first to openly declare that he is an army and party commissar and would be organising structures for traditional leaders and the first to address the public “cowboy style”.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Advocate Mpofu Demands Retraction Of General Sanyatwe's ZANU PF Rally Comments

Advocate <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thabani_Mpofu/">Thabani Mpofu</a> has made a statement that has been interpreted as dissuading the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) from <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/08/30/zimbabwe-2023-elections-ccc-calls-for-fresh-elections-video/">calling for fresh elections</a>. Mpofu suggests that it is better to fight to retain what they currently have while also striving to recover what they believe was stolen from them.
The CCC won 73 seats in the National Assembly during the recent harmonized elections, but their presidential candidate, Nelson Chamisa, lost to President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the ZANU PF party. The CCC alleges that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), in collaboration with ZANU PF, manipulated the electoral results in favour of Mnangagwa. Initially, the CCC intended to challenge the presidential election results only, but they have now decided to reject all results, claiming that the electoral process was flawed, a view shared by various observer missions.
Mpofu, popularly known for representing the Nelson Chamisa-led MDC Alliance in a 2018 lawsuit against the ZEC regarding that year’s presidential election, expressed his disagreement. He presented an analogy: 
<blockquote>
You have $100 in $1 notes, a thief snatches $63 and you fight hard to keep the $37; do you hand over the $37 to them in order to make the point that you have been stolen from or you keep the $37 and still try to fight for your $63?
</blockquote>
Journalist Zenzele Ndebele responded to Mpofu’s post on X, suggesting that the CCC might not boycott parliamentary and council activities since they won those positions, but consider the presidential election as “stolen.” Ndebele said:
<blockquote>
This could simply mean CCC will not boycott parliament and councils coz they won but presidential was “stolen”. End of story. See you in 2028. 
</blockquote>
The CCC is pushing for fresh elections in Zimbabwe, aiming for the involvement and guidance of other stakeholders such as SADC and AU. However, political analysts have expressed doubts about the CCC’s ability to successfully challenge the ZEC’s declaration in court, as they believe the courts are captured by the ruling ZANU PF party.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Advocate Thabani Mpofu: Keep What You Have While Fighting To Recover What Was Stolen

ZANU PF intends to pursue litigation for the disqualification of the nomination of the CCC candidates who were registered to participate in the election after the stipulated time. Zimbabwe’s Finance Secretary, Patrick Chinamasa, stated that the candidates’ nomination papers were submitted after the 4pm statutory deadline, and the law is “peremptory” about compliance. He said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission had no legal right to accept nominations from candidates who were not within the court by 4 pm on June 21, 2023. ZANU PF has directed that litigation be urgently instituted for the disqualification of the nomination of the CCC candidates who submitted their papers out of time, in contravention of section 46 (7) and (8) of the Electoral Act. Chinamasa said:
<blockquote>
1. With respect to the Harmonised Elections slated for 23 August 2023.21 June Wednesday 2023 was gazetted as the nomination day to receive nominations for National Assembly Election Candidates and Party List Election Candidates. 
2. With respect to the time frame within which nomination papers are to be submitted Section 46 (7) and (8) of the Electoral Act Chapter 2:13) provides as follows:
No nomination paper shall be received by the nomination officer in terms of Subsection (6) after four o’clock in the afternoon of nomination day or. where there is more than one nomination day for the election concerned, the last such nomination day.
Provided that, if at that time a candidate or his or her chief election agent is present in the court and ready to submit a nomination paper in respect of the candidate the nomination officer shall give him or her an opportunity to do so. 8. The nomination officer shall examine every nomination paper lodged with him or her which has not been previously examined by him or her in order to ascertain whether it is in order and shall give any candidate or his or her chief election agent an opportunity to rectify any defect not previously rectified and may adjourn the sitting of the court for that purpose from time to time: Provided that the sitting shall not be adjourned to any other day that is not a nomination day-. 
3. The provisions of the law arc peremptory. To comply with the 4pm statutory deadline for the submission of nomination papers the candidate should be within the Nomination Courtroom with a validly signed nomination paper and the requisite nomination fee. The law is also peremptory that any adjournments for purposes of rectification of defects shall not be to any other day that is not a Nomination Day. In the instant case 21 June 2023 was the gazetted Nomination Day. 
</blockquote>
<h3>ZANU PF says the following CC’C candidates submitted their nomination papers out of time:</h3>
<blockquote>
1)). Kapoikulu surrender (Bulawayo Central)
2). GumedeMinehle Ntandoyenkosi (Bulawayo North)
3). Watson Nicola Jane (Bulawayo South)
4). Sibanda Pashor Raphael (Cowdray Park)
5). Bajila Collins Discent (Emakhandeni/Luveve)
6). TshumaDingilizwe (Entumbane/Njube)
7). Dube Prince (Entumbane/Njube)
8). Gono Dereck (Lobengula/Magwegwe)
9). Makaza Desmond (Mpopoma/Mzilikazi)
10). Manduna Obert (Nketa)
11). Moyo Desire (Nkulumane)
12). Moyo Soneni (Pelandaba/Tshabalala)
13). Siziba Gift (Pelandaba/Tshabalala)
14). MahlanguSichelesile (Pumula)
15). Mhlanga Albert (Pumula)
</blockquote>
Added Chinamasa:
<blockquote>
5. In short the CCC candidates referred to above were not in court with signed nomination papers and nomination fee by the time the Nomination Court closed at 4pm on 21 June 2023. As the above will show the Nomination Court sat on 22 June 2023 again in contravention of section 46 (7) and (8) of the Electoral Act. 
6. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission had no legal right to accept the nominations referred to from candidates who were not within the court by 4pin on 21 June 2023. Further, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission had no legal right to sit as a Nomination Court on 22 June 2023 to receive and accept nomination papers from CCC candidates referred to above. 
7. We are aware that failure by CCC candidates to submit their nomination papers on time were due to the structureless, constitutionless and banking accountless organisation that CCC is. It was illegal for ZEC to receive and accept nomination papers awaiting the signature of some CCC Official who was in Harare at the time the Nomination Court closed at 4pm on 21 June 2023. Equally, it was illegal for ZEC to accept payment of nomination fees after 4pm on 21 June, 2023 and to wait for the payment from a CCC Official who was said to be still in Harare as at 4pm on 21 June 2023. 
8. The law is “a ass” and must be obeyed and complied with. 
9. Accordingly ZANU PF has directed that litigation be instituted urgently for the nullification of the nomination of the CCC candidates mentioned above and whose papers were submitted out of time in contravention of Section 46 (7) and (8) of the Electoral Act( Chapter 2:13).
</blockquote>
Law expert, Thabani Mpofu, suggests that ZANU PF’s decision to ask a court of law to disqualify CCC candidates is significant. 
Zimbabwe will hold harmonised elections on August 23, 2023. 
The nomination court sat last Wednesday, and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) stated that only candidates who had submitted their papers but had difficulty making payments could register, even beyond the stipulated time. The commission rejected late submission stating that any nomination paper submitted after the proclamation date was in breach of the constitution.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe 2023 Elections: ZANU PF Seeks Disqualification Of CCC Candidates

Advocate <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thabani_Mpofu">Thabani Mpofu</a> of “the Fulcrum, the Pith” fame has said President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa (ED)</a> is not satisfied that the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Electoral_Commission">Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)</a> “rigged enough in his favour” with the delimitation exercise. 
His remarks come after <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/02/21/notable-changes-from-the-gazetted-zecs-delimitation-report/">ED gazetted the ZEC delimitation report</a> that is viewed by government critics as a rigging mechanism. 
The new names and boundaries of wards and the House of Assembly and Senatorial Constituencies will be used for the forthcoming and any subsequent elections, Mnangagwa said.
In a Twitter post seen by Pindula News, Thabani Mpofu said ED is afraid of elections and believes that ZEC has not rigged enough in his favour with the delimitation exercise. He said:
<blockquote>
Stop focusing on legalities of the delimitation process &amp; leave that to lawyers &amp; CSOs. What is indubitably clear is that ED is not in control, is afraid of elections &amp; knows that elections can &amp;will deliver change. He is at his weakest &amp; allies have deserted him. Kwekwe him out.
I like the anger. It speaks to their desperation and confusion. The masses should register to vote, vote and defend the vote. ED is not satisfied that ZEC has rigged enough in his favour and as you can see, he is running. Run him out of town good people.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is scheduled to hold harmonised elections this year and Mnangagwa has been endorsed to represent the ruling ZANU PF in the presidential election. 
A victory will see him staying in power until at least 2028.
Mpofu’s remarks are in sync with those of the opposition which claims that the ZEC, in connivance with ZANU PF, rigged the 2018 presidential elections to make ED the winner instead of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> who contested on the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/MDC">MDC Alliance</a> ticket.
The matter spilt into courts where it was determined that ED was the winner after Chamisa’s counsel, led by Mpofu, “failed” to present evidence to substantiate its rigging allegations.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Delimitation Report: ED Not Satisfied ZEC Rigged Enough - Advocate Mpofu

Harare-based lawyer and constitutional law expert, Thabani Mpofu, says it would be ideal if no single party attains a two-thirds majority in parliament in the 2023 general elections as this will promote consensus-building.
Mpofu became a household name in 2018 when he represented MDC Alliance presidential candidate, Nelson Chamisa at the Constitutional Court.
Chamisa had challenged the presidential election results as announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) but lost the case due to a lack of evidence, according to the ConCourt bench.
Posting on Twitter, Mpofu urged the opposition to devise strategies to counter possible gerrymandering by ZEC during the delimitation exercise.
Gerrymandering is the manipulation of boundaries of (an electoral constituency) so as to favour one party or class. <a href="https://twitter.com/adv_fulcrum/status/1542464477865672705">Wrote Mpofu</a>:
<blockquote>
S37A of the Electoral Act deals with the delimitation of constituencies. For purposes of Parliamentary elections, this is one of the most significant processes that must take place before the watershed 2023 elections.
Before fixing the electoral boundaries, ZEC must publish its intention to do so. It must receive representations from the citizens on the matter.
Given that ZEC has discretion over the issue, don’t count on it doing anything reasonable. But don’t despair
Strategies must be built around the boundaries to be drawn by ZEC. I believe those other ones have already done their homework and the boundaries will largely favour them.
Don’t cry about this in the aftermath. Strategize to counter any gerrymandering. Lemon to lemonade.
Successful strategies in counter, as opposed to popularity, will determine whether or not CCC controls parliament.
Whatever happens, no one must get a two-thirds majority. Post-change, we still need a fair measure of consensus. That’s how Zimbabwe will be built from its ruins.
</blockquote>

No Party Must Get Two-thirds Majority In Parliament - Advocate Mpofu

The leader of opposition MDC Alliance, Nelson Chamisa, envisions a bright future for Zimbabwe where happiness and abundance will be the order of the day.
Chamisa is making the prophecies when the Southern African country is facing a multifaceted crisis that is killing the hopes of many citizens while some have since jumped the country’s borders to flee from the biting economy.
The youthful leader made the remarks in response to a post by Advocate Thabani Mpofu who had teased him saying the former I.C.T minister must remember him when he comes to power. Advocate Mpofu had said:
<blockquote>
_1Ch 16:3  And he dealt to every one of Israel, both man and woman, to every one a loaf of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine. President <a class="link-complex" data-user-name="nelsonchamisa" href="https://twitter.com/nelsonchamisa/" rel="noopener user" target="_blank">@nelsonchamisa</a> pamunege mapinda mozotipawo rofu, polony nefreezit [remember us when you attain power]. It won’t cost much. Tinodawo kufara [we want happiness]. Happy Sabbath._
</blockquote>
 In response, Chamisa suggested that he had a clear picture of what the future holds. He said:
<blockquote>
_MuZimbabwe Sizojabula..Muchafarwa People’s Advocate! [We will be happy in Zimbabwe]_
</blockquote>
<div class="js-card-container">Meanwhile, some political analysts argue that the chances are slim that the opposition will dislodge ZANU PF from power in the upcoming 2023 elections adding that the opposition is in disarray.</div>
<div class="js-card-container"></div>
<div class="js-card-container">Others are calling for political reforms saying the ruling party will not win free and fair elections. They, however, observe that ZANU PF does not have any incentive to implement reforms.</div>
<div class="js-card-container"></div>
<div class="js-card-container">Zimbabwe is endowed with vast resources in agriculture, mining, and maritime resources, which if properly harnessed, can stimulate a resource-based industrialisation strategy.</div>
<div class="js-card-container"></div>
<div class="js-card-container">Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government aims to propel the country to a middle-income economy by 2030, an attainable vision if authorities are committed to development.</div>
<div class="js-card-container"></div>
<div class="js-card-container">Analysts, however, observe that with grand corruption in the country, the broke Southern African country is set to miss the set targets considering that it does not have financial support from the international community.</div>
<div class="js-card-container"></div>

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Chamisa Envisions A Bright Future For Zimbabwe

Constitutional lawyer Lovemore Madhuku has said there is no law that requires the under-fire Vice President Kembo Mohadi to resign from his position due to his alleged se_xual scandals, ZimLive reports.
Madhuku blamed this on the reluctance of parliamentarians to enact a code that would penalise/punish such depraved behavior and said politicians were deliberately ignoring the law that would guard their moral behaviors.
Said Madhuku:
<blockquote>I am aware that some people might regard what he has done to be immoral or something that is unacceptable but unfortunately under our law moral values do not in themselves constitute any law
There is no law and no standard that can be used to judge whether a vice president or a minister can have 20 or 50 affairs or even sleep with people in the offices.
But Mohadi’s removal would only be possible if parliament, ministers and the government had enacted that act of parliament which is contemplated in Section 106 (3) of the constitution
It’s something that must be taken into account that the Constitution simply says there shall be an act of parliament which will put in place codes of conduct.
It would appear that the government, the president’s ministers and parliament are deliberately not putting into place such an act of parliament because they know that an act of parliament of that nature which is contemplated by the constitution would then allow citizens to judge them on the basis of that standard,</blockquote>
However, Nelson Chamisa’s lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu said Mohadi was in clear violation of  Section 106 (2) (b) of the Constitution which reportedly states that
<blockquote>Vice presidents… may not during their tenure of office act in any way that is inconsistent with their office, or expose themselves to any situation involving the risk of a conflict between their official responsibilities and private interests.</blockquote>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/21/leaked-audio-vp-mohadi-luring-my-one-to-a-hotel/">Audios of Mohadi speaking</a> to his alleged lovers have been leaking and circulating on social media since last week.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2021/02/21/madhuku-slams-lawmakers-for-avoiding-law-that-would-punish-mohadis-depraved-behavior/">ZimLive</a>

There Is No Law To Punish Mohadi On His Behavior - Madhuku

Hopewell Chin’ono has said, Tabani Vusa Mpofu, who heads the Special Anti Corruption Unit (SACU), who is allegedly President Mnangagwa’s nephew is behind the high profile arrest cases the country saw these last few weeks.
Hopewell Tweeted:
<blockquote>Mnangagwa’s nephew, Tabani Vusa Mpofu, is the head of that crooked and unconstitutional unit! He was behind my arrest and that of many others including <a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/adv_fulcrum" role="link">@adv_fulcrum </a>&amp; removal of Beatrice abusing that illegal unit! It is used to target Mnangagwa’s critics &amp; political rivals!</blockquote>
This was after MDC Alliance Spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere revealed that they were being prosecuted by people from SACU in a tweet that reads:
<blockquote>Our criminal matter is yet to start. We are now being prosecuted in the Anti-Corruption Court by the President’s Special Unit because one of the protesters had a poster written “No to Corruption.” We have changed courts 4 times this morning.</blockquote>
Advocate Thabani Mpofu who is said to be the victim of the same organisation commented on the matter and said:
<blockquote>You are quite right. He also conveniently forgets to spell his name properly in order to give the false impression that he is Advocate Thabani Mpofu. His sins are many. The day of reckoning is nigh.</blockquote>
International Crisis Group Consultant Piers Pigou also commented saying every Zimbabwean must know Tabani Mpofu and his alleged job in President Mnangagwa’s administration:
<blockquote>Every Zimbabwean should know who this man is &amp; the role he’s allegedly playing at the behest of the Mnangagwa administration. This is Thabani Mpofu (NOT the Adv of the same name). He supposedly runs a special anti corruption unit but seems to be busy targeting regime critics.
This man, Thabani Mpofu, used to run the MDC’s research dept. Was he a corrupt ZanuPF plant who served his masters well &amp; was amply rewarded for this. Perhaps the Meikles Group would like to explain their relationship with ZanuPF and the role played by its company secretary?</blockquote>
Tabani Vusa Mpofu has of late confirmed the arrests of many prominent f<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/09/10/sacu-arrests-harare-town-clerk/">igures including that of Harare Clerk Hosiah Masango a few weeks ago. </a>
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope">Hopewell Chin’ono Twitter </a>

Chin'ono Says ED's Nephew Behind Persecution Of Lawyers Mpofu And Mtetwa

Advocate Thabani Mpofu who was arrested, charged and detained yesterday for “defeating or obstructing the course of justice,” after he allegedly falsified information by submitting an affidavit of a non-existent person to the Constitutional Court (Con-Court) in January 2019 was pictured barefooted in police custody.
Mpofu is accused of having claimed the existence of one Simbarashe Zuze while filling an affidavit form in January 2019, challenging the appointment of Prosecutor-General (PG) Kumbirai Hodzi by President Emmerson Mnangagwa as he alleged that he was the 3rd best candidate.
<img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="576" data-maxwidth="266" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EZc2ZMQXkAE1e81?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
Mpofu who is the lawyer of opposition MDC Alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa, is detained at Rhodsville Police station and is expected to appear in court this Tuesday.
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1267541658960384001">Hopewell Chin’ono</a>

PICTURE: Advocate Thabani Mpofu In Police Custody

Alex Tawanda Magaisa, the former Chief of Staff for the late former Prime Minister of Zimbabwe, Morgan Tsvangirai has said there is a conspiracy to arrest advocate Thabani Mpofu.
Mpofu of “the Pith” and “the Fulcrum” fame, is the lawyer of Nelson Chamisa the leader of the opposition MDC Alliance.
Posting on Twitter, Magaisa said:
<blockquote>I’m advised elements of the system are coming after top lawyer, Adv. Thabani Mpofu. The plan is to arrest him on some trumped-up charges. Adv. Mpofu has been a prominent counsel for the opposition MDC A. It’s part of a relentless campaign to decimate the opposition &amp; its pillars.</blockquote>
Last year, July, Mpofu reported that <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/05/pictures-wheels-of-the-car-of-chamisas-lawyer-tampered-with/">mysterious men were photographically captured red-handed, fiddling with the front left wheel of his car.</a>
The report came a few weeks after Mpofu <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/06/16/chamisas-lawyer-advocate-thabani-mpofu-involved-in-road-accident/">had been involved in a car accident in Muzarabani</a> in June with the legal expert saying <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/06/18/chamisas-lawyer-not-ruling-out-foul-play-in-muzarabani-car-crash/">he does not rule out foul play.</a>
In November of the same year, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/11/11/chamisas-lawyer-i-wont-be-cowed-into-silenceas-his-house-is-broken-into/">his house was broken into</a> and the defiant lawyer said he had “every reason to believe” that the raid was carried out by State agents looking for information.
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/Wamagaisa/status/1266084598410293249">Alex Magaisa</a>

"Plot To Arrest Chamisa's Top Lawyer Exposed," - Magaisa

Prominent social media activist Ali Naka has claimed that he has reliable information suggesting a plan is underway to abduct journalist and activist Hopewell Chin’ono, and prominent laywer Thabani Mpofu.
Naka claimed that the information can from military intelligence who informed a lawyer.
Naka Tweeted today:
<blockquote>Military intelligence sources have told a very reliable lawyer that the system wants to abduct Advocate Thabani Mpofu and journalist Hopewell Chon’ono during the Lockdown period. <a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope" role="link">@daddyhope </a>is accused of posting a tweet where Mpofu said he will lead folks to the Sakunda clinic.</blockquote>
This comes after it emerged that Sakunda was going to revamp St Annes Hospital and Rock Foundation Medical Center in order to cater to the elite should they contract COVID-19.
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/TravelGov/status/1243335697202851843">Twitter</a>

Ali Naka Claims A Plan Underway To Abduct Hopwell Chin'ono and Thabani Mpofu

Controversial information deputy minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Energy_Mutodi">Energy Mutodi</a> in a tweet referred to Chamisa’s lawyer <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thabani_Mpofu">Thabani Mpofu</a> as a half baked lawyer after Mpofu opined that the president in appointing <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/15/chiwenga-must-take-over-since-mnangagwa-has-renounced-position-opinion/">both VPs as acting presidents violated the constitution. </a>
Mutodi said Mpofu needed a judge to help him interpret the constitution. The Deputy Minister tweeted:
<blockquote>A half-backed lawyer Thabani Mpofu purports that a President on leave cannot perform executive functions. Even after delegation, the principal is still accountable &amp; responsible for the actions of his proxy. He can resurrect from his leave &amp; perform executive duties at any time.
You don’t quote the constitution verbatim without applying your mind to it. You need common law &amp; authoritative texts to fully understand what legislators intended to achieve when they introduced those statutes. Thabani needs a Judge to help him understand the Constitution</blockquote>
The <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/14/ed-puts-leave-on-hold-jets-off-to-mozambique-for-nyusis-inauguration/">president is on an on and off 3 weeks leave</a> and he appointed both Vice Presidents as acting presidents before he left, a move Mpofu said was in violation of the constitution.
More: <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/energymutodi/status/1217704926161358848">Twitter</a>

Mutodi Calls Thabani Mpofu A "Half-Backed" Lawyer

<blockquote>President Nelson Chamisa is concerned with the deteriorating situation in the country and recognises the urgent need for the people of Zimbabwe to engage this crisis immediately. All social and economic stakeholders must plan to end this crisis. Our young people have a lot at stake and must not allow this country to implode.
Over the last few days the President has been preparing an alternative government for our country. To begin this process, he has made appointments and assigned duties to officials in the party, to ensure readiness.
Today the President is announcing two bold steps taken as part of the elaborate and carefully thought process of preparing to serve the people of Zimbabwe and make our country great. The President is doing this in preparation while the citizens consider the resolution of our national crisis.
In preparing the MDC’s task as a government the President understands that our problems emanate from the lack of integrity and accountability in our public work. The President emphasises that public officials are the human interface between the state and the citizens. He wants local governments, run by his party to be an exemplary interface that is accountable and of high integrity. President Chamisa has zero tolerance for corruption and any lack of efficacy in public officials.
The President has with immediate effect constituted an Integrity and Accountability Panel (IAP) which shall enforce his zero tolerance to corruption policy. He has provided this team with terms of reference are specific and definitive.
This committee shall perform its duties through a process that includes meeting with all stakeholders such as residents and organised local groups. The five member strong panel, that has been carefully verted, will be led by a very highly regarded lawyer in this country. One who has to this day served this country with integrity and commitment, Advocate Thabani Mpofu.
The President will require him to execute his duties with continued honour and hard work and has instructed him to remain uncompromising in his commitment to the highest standards.
Secondly the President has assigned duties to his Vice Presidents, as a way of ensuring better efficiency and a smoother operating political party in preparation for an all-star and high calibre government. He wants a machine that is properly oiled with all its nuts and bolts properly positioned and tightened. Our country cannot take any chances and does not have the luxury of time, and this has informed the President’s assignment of duties to the Vice Presidents.
The President has allocated these responsibilities to ensure the effective execution of his mandate to transform the MDC into a modern 21st century Party of Excellence. These assignments are put in place in order to ensure the MDC can define a new Zimbabwe and prepare to form the next government and do so very soon. The Vice Presidents shall hold these responsibilities on a rotational basis as shall be determined by the President, from time to time.
In line with the Constitution the President has designated that with immediate effect the Vice President shall resume working on the following areas.
Vice President, Honourable Lynette Karenyi, will be responsible for supervising all party activities relating to two clusters, which are:
1. Parliament, and 
2. Party Building
Vice President, Professor Welshman Ncube, will be responsible for supervising all party activities relating to the following clusters:
1. Administration, and 
2. International Relations and Diplomacy
Vice President, Honourable Tendai Biti, will be responsible for supervising all party activities relating to:
1. Policy and Ideology, and 
2. Local Government
Dr Nkululeko Sibanda – Presidential Spokesperson 
Movement For Democratic Change</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Chamisa Appoints Adv Thabani Mpofu To MDC Anti-Corruption Body

Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson, Justice Loice Matanda Moyo has responded to Advocate Thabani Mpofu’s request to prosecute Chiadzwa diamonds and Command Agriculture looters.
On Thursday, Advocate Mpofu issued a statement “challenging” ZACC to allow him to prosecute the alleged criminals for free.
In an interview with Zim Morning Post on Friday morning, Justice Matanda Moyo said:
<blockquote>
<p style="box-sizing:border-box; font-family:Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size:15px; line-height:26px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:26px; overflow-wrap:break-word; color:rgb(34,34,34); font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-variant-caps:normal; font-weight:400; letter-spacing:normal; orphans:2text-indent:0px; text-transform:none; white-space:normal; widows:2; word-spacing:0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width:0px; background-color:rgb(255,255,255); text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial; text-align:left;">I am thrilled to note the offer to prosecute purported to have come from advocate Thabani Mpofu. Although I have seen the mesaage as a screenshot circulating on twitter, I haven’t been able to find the primary source of the offer.
I can only hope it came from the learned Advocate’s authentic handle. While I welcome his desire to jump into the ring and join the fight against corruption, let me categorically state that prosecution is the prerogative of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) which is led by the Prosecutor General (PG).
Our mandate as ZACC Is to investigate, arrest or detain and refer to NPA for prosecution. ZACC does not issue prosecution certificates and therefore I would urge the advocate to approach the NPA with his offer. I can only hope more people will step up to join this fight against corruption because this is the fight of our lives.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zimmorningpost.com/breakingzacc-boss-responds-to-advocate-thabani-mpofu-offer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zim Morning Post</a>

JUST IN: ZACC Responds To Advocate Thabani Mpofu's 'Free' Offer

Prominent Harare lawyer, Advocate Thabami Mpofu, has challenged the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to be allowed to prosecute those who allegedly looted Chiadzwa diamonds and corruptly benefited from Command Agriculture funds.
Mpofu claimed that those who benefitted unlawfully from the Chiadzwa gems are known and that what happened with Command farming is known as well and he is ready to prosecute for free.
The reconstituted ZACC is chaired by Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo, the wife of a former army General, Subusiso Moyo, who is now Foreign Affairs Minister.
In a brief statement on Thursday, Mpofu, who represented MDC leader Nelson Chamisa in his Constitutional Court challenge against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s victory in the 2018 presidential elections, said:
<blockquote>We know who it is that has raided the public purse. We know who looted Chiadzwa.
We are fully aware of what happened with Command Agriculture.
The true but untold NSSA story is known to us, even to the minutest detail.
We are ready to act but we will only act against the corrupters of the corrupt, the bishops of thievery.
This is my public offer to you Justice Matanda-Moyo. Give me three of the big ones.
Give me three who have looted our billions and I will prosecute them for free. The ball is in your court, M’lady.</blockquote>
ZACC was recently granted arresting powers by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Its high profile arrest to date is former Tourism Minister Prisca Mupfumira.
Mupfumira implicated in alleged corruption during her stint as Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister between 2014 and 2017.
She is facing criminal abuse of office, fraud and money laundering charges and has been denied bail.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2019/08/08/advocate-mpofu-to-zacc-let-me-prosecute-chiadzwa-command-agriculture-looters/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ZimLive.com</a></h4>

Advocate Thabani Mpofu Offers To Prosecute Chiadzwa & Command Farming Looters For Free

MDC Treasurer General aspirant David Coltart has denigrated Thokozani Khuphe over her remarks that she wanted to reclaim her leadership in the MDC. Khuphe’s remarks came after the High Court nullified Nelson Chamisa’s presidency in the party.
The court ordered the party to go to an extraordinary congress to elect a new leader. Commenting
<blockquote>Dear Thoko Zanu Khupe … You did your congress together with Gutu, Linda Masarira and others, you were elected president and you indicated that your party is the original MDC-T. You participated in the presidential race using the name MDC-T and you got 0.9 percent … Chamisa also participated and got over two and half million votes, so I don’t see the logic why you are saying you want to lead the MDC, which MDC?</blockquote>
Coltart further described Khuphe’s decision as total madness. He added:
<blockquote>You want to be a leader of 2 million people who didn’t vote for you really, this is total madness give us a break madam Khupe …This will not work, you will not work, Chamisa will work … Simple.</blockquote>
Chamisa has engaged advocate Thabani Mpofu to represent him in the matter. Meanwhile, Khuphe has since roped in Professor Lovemore Madhuku to help her implement the court order.
Chamisa’s supporters and sympathisers are arguing that the ruling was influenced by the ruling ZANU PF which prefers any opposition leader but Chamisa.
More: <a href="https://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2019/05/14/stop-the-madness-coltart-tells-khupe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">DailyNews</a>

This Is Total Madness Give Us A Break Madam Khupe - Coltart

The Nelson Chamisa-led MDC has roped in Advocate Thabani Mpofu to lead its appeal against a High Court ruling which nullified Chamisa’s presidency.
Mpofu on Sunday confirmed that he was taking the lead in the case. He said:
<blockquote>I have been briefed to take up the matter.
I have studied the judgment together with Advocate Sylvester Hashiti and Keith Kachambwa with the most undaunted minds and have been exceedingly intent upon its subject, taking it up seriously with determination to bring the matter to the desired outcome.
There are at least 11 aspects of fundamental concern that we have identified. Our path is both sure and clear.</blockquote>
It was Mpofu who represented Chamisa in the ill-fated Constitutional Court challenge against ZEC’s declaration that the ZANU PF candidate in the 2018 poll, Emmerson Mnangagwa had won.
According to Newsday sources, the MDC is confident of overturning the High Court ruling. The publication’s sources said:
<blockquote>What is clear is that Congress is due and it will be held.
Going to an extraordinary congress would require the party structures elected in 2014 to convene and elect a president of the party, yet their own mandate in terms of the same constitution has expired.
They, therefore, do not have the right and power to represent the party in their current form.
… If an extraordinary congress is to happen, it has to be called for by the party and not an individual, therefore, the second in line would be then chairman of the party Morgen Komichi, together with secretary-general Douglas Mwonzora and this has already been done</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/05/top-lawyer-for-chamisa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Newsday</a></h4>

Chamisa Turns To Advocate Thabani Mpofu, Again

Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWA) secretary-general, Victor Matemadanda on Monday mocked a top Harare lawyer, Advocate Thabani Mpofu for misleading the nation over a planned appeal against Justice Mushore’s ruling last week.
Justice Mushore ruled that MDC president Nelson Chamisa is illegitimate and should step aside for Thokozani Khupe to lead the party.
Meanwhile, Matemanda claimed Advocate Mpofu once misled the opposition party when he claimed that he would win a ConCourt case which sought to nullify the ZANU PF presidential candidate’s victory in the 2018 general election. Said Matemadanda:
<blockquote>Advocate Mpofu once promised the opposition leadership heaven on earth that he will provide v11 forms as evidence that Chamisa won the 2018 presidential elections but dismally failed to deliver at the end of the day.
For Mpofu to claim that it will be a walkover is absurd and his sentiments are meant to the hype and incite people for nothing, they did on the presidential contest and they failed and for them to think they will railroad the courts this time around is unfortunate.</blockquote>
Matemadanda further threatened outspoken Matabeleland traditional leader, Chief Felix Ndiweni, who has called for additional sanctions on the country’s ruling elite. He said:
<blockquote>That is a security threat, why does he have to say the President’s term of office will end soon, does he have soldiers or is he training an army? He must leave President Mnangagwa alone and stop such attention seeking behaviour.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="http://www.zbc.co.zw/cde-matemadanda-tears-into-chamisa-chief-nmdiweni/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ZBC News</a></h4>

Matemadanda Mocks Advocate Mpofu, Warns Chief Ndiweni

Nelson Chamisa, leader of the Movement for Democratic Change is set to appeal the High Court ruling which nullified his party presidency.
Chamisa said that they have a strong defence against the ruling. Posting on Twiter, he said:
<blockquote>We have a very solid and double strong case! Court decisions are subject to appeals simply because there is always that inherent possibility for the court to be in error either at law or on facts. Any such gross misdirection always necessarily invite impeachment.</blockquote>
<div>
<div data-adid="42304" data-type="code">He also said the party observes both the national and the party constitution always. He added:</div>
</div>
<blockquote>Good governance and rule of law are second nature to us. Constitutionalism matters to us in the MDC. We follow both the party and national constitutions in all our critical resolutions and steps. All our decisions were and are fully backed by the provisions in the party constitution.</blockquote>
263Chat reports that top lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu is set to lead Chamisa’s legal counsel in appealing against the High Court ruling.
Thokozani Khupe who is saying the ruling has ideally placed her as the rightful MDC. T leader has over the weekend called for an internal dialogue to solve the party leadership wrangle.
According to the ruling, the MDC has to go for an extraordinary congress. It reset the party back to 2014 status where Chamisa was relegated to a card-carrying member after his loss to Douglas Mwonzora for the Secretary-General post.
More: <a href="https://www.263chat.com/chamisa-set-to-appeal-high-court-ruling/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">263Chat</a>

Chamisa Set To Challenge The High Court Ruling

Controversial businessman, Wicknell Chivayo has released a video in which he denied that he was arrested on Sunday. The flamboyant high-living businessman said that there was so much hatred in the country, and accused people of jumping to conclusions because his phone was unreachable and because he was off social media
This directly contradicts what his lawyer, Advocate Thanbani Mpofu, told the Daily News. Mpofu said that his client had been detained although he was not sure whether it was the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) or the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) who were responsible for his arrest.  Mpofu also said that he was frantically trying to establish where his client had been taken.
https://youtu.be/-JjdZAmV9Mk

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