Senior Clerical Assistant (Administration) – Grade 5

Records Assistant

Assistant Registrar – Faculties (Gweru)

Security Guards (Gweru, Harare, Kwekwe & Zvishavane campuses)

Technical Sales Person/ Aluminium (Harare)

Regional Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) Officer (Bulawayo)

Boiler Maker (Harare)

Marketing & Sales Officer (Harare)

Compliance Officer (Harare)

Safety, Health and Environment Officer (Harare)

Business Unit Manager x2 (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant - JAC (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant – DONG FENG (Harare)

Vehicle Sales Consultant – BAIC (Harare)

Spray Painter (Harare)

Motor Vehicle Panel Beater (Harare)

Team Leaders x7

Billing Supervisor (Harare)

Sales Representative (Harare)

Auto Electrician: Artisan (Chipinge)

Sales Representatives (Harare)

Director Human Resource (Mutare)

Assistant Batch Plant Operator (Harare)

Legal & Compliance Manager (Harare)

Processes Analyst (Harare)

Finance Manager Corporate (Harare)

Opposition Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) party activists, who were jailed for violence and bigotry say their imprisonment hardened their resolve to continue the struggle for the restoration of the Mthwakazi State.
They were speaking during a welcome party organised by their party in Nketa on Saturday after being released from Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
MRP’s national chairperson, Mongameli Xukuthwayo Mlotshwa, who was among the party members who were recently freed from prison, said they suffered ill-treatment during his two-year incarceration. Said Mlotshwa:
<blockquote>
They arrested me as the chairperson of the party, it’s just a curve on the way. In every struggle, there is always a cross to carry.
We will continue with the struggle, the ill-treatment that we suffered in jail will not deter us, this is a movement or a revolution, whoever is arresting us is making things worse.
There is a lot that we learn in jail, even pastors preach saying people must cater for those in prison, but they do not know the experience in jail.
We started in Khami Prison, then transferred to Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison. Even prison officials were shocked to hear that.
We heard that it was a command from a higher authority. We were told that we could not be transferred because the instructions were supposed to come from the high command that ended up compromising the rights of other Ndebele-speaking inmates who were supposed to be transferred as well.
</blockquote>
Mlotshwa stated that he and Welcome Moyo, who was also released alongside him, were apprehended after visiting the Bulawayo Central Police Station to engage in dialogue with the police regarding their nighttime surveillance.
Mlotshwa and Moyo were among nine MRP members who were sent to jail by Bulawayo magistrate Tavengwa Sangster in June 2022.
Mlotshwa and Moyo were slapped with 36-month jail terms, while seven others namely, Nkosinathi Ncube, Tinos Nkomo (73) Levison Ncube (62), Sibongile Banda (57), Busi Moyo (52, Ackim Ndebele and Maxwell Nkosi were sentenced to 33 months in jail for violence.
On August 28, 2022, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) transferred Mlotshwa, Nkosinathi, Nkomo, Levison, Ndebele, Welcome, Sibongile Banda and Busi to Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison in Harare following a directive from authorities.
Only Nkosi was transferred to Gwanda.
The Mthwakazi Republic Party is a political organisation established in 2014. This party is characterised as both secessionist and restorationist, aiming to establish an independent state separate from Zimbabwe while also reviving the Mthwakazi kingdom.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Chikurubi Prison Strengthened Us, Says Mthwakazi Activist

Opposition politician Job Sikhala says he was “kicked out” from Chikurubi Maximum Prison in Zimbabwe on Tuesday night. Authorities allegedly decided to release him early after learning that many people planned to give him a grand welcome upon his release, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/sikhala-kicked-out-of-prison-dumped-by-the-roadside/?s=08">NewZimbabwe</a> reported. Sikhala had been given a suspended jail term for inciting public violence and was originally scheduled to be released the following morning. He was informed during the night that he had to leave immediately and was dropped off by the roadside. He said:
<blockquote>
I was kicked out. I was told you have to go now, that’s the instruction we got so they took me out and dumped me by the roadside. At this time can you imagine.
</blockquote>
Sikhala expressed concerns that there may have been plans to abduct him by state agents. He had been in prison since June 2022 when he was arrested for inciting public violence which erupted in Nyatsime during the funeral wake of slain Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist, Moreblessing Ali.
He was convicted on 24 January 2024 after he spent over a year and a half in pre-trial detention. He was denied bail on several occasions. He was further accused of circulating a video inciting the public. However, that charge was dropped before his conviction was overturned by the High Court.
After his release, Sikhala stated that he needed time to figure out his next steps. He still has two pending criminal charges awaiting judgment, with a decision expected on one of the cases on February 7.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Opposition Politician Job Sikhala 'Kicked Out' Of Zimbabwe Prison At Night

Job Sikhala, a senior member of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in Zimbabwe, has expressed his willingness to sacrifice for the sake of democracy and the well-being of the Zimbabwean people. He made these remarks on social media after being released from prison, where he had been detained since June 2022.
Sikhala was on 24 January 2024 found guilty of inciting public violence during the funeral wake of slain CCC activist Moreblessing Ali. Although he was sentenced to two years in prison, the sentence was suspended after Magistrate Tafadzwa Miti considered the time he had already spent in pre-trial detention. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Sikhala thanked his supporters and vowed to continue fighting for the love of his country and its people. The former Zengeza West Member of Parliament said:
<blockquote>
Dear Zimbabweans and Worldwide Friends.
For nearly 2 years, I suffered in my oppressors’ prison. You prayed 4 me 2 be released from the jaws of my tormentors. You made loud clamours for my release as you know that I was innocent. Yu stood with my family. I am crying as I am typing this message. Your love strengthened me throughout. I deeply understand the pain and agony we shared together during the time of my unmitigated oppression, but let me reassure all of you that:
I am prepared to pay any price for the love of my country.
I am prepared to pay any price for the love of the people of Zimbabwe.
I am prepared to pay any price in defence of democracy, freedom, and the happiness of our people.
To all Zimbabweans in the country and the diaspora, I thank you.
Let me thank all progressive organisations, in politics, in the media, civic society, churches, the working people, student bodies, professionals, and Members of Parliament both domestically and internationally for ceaselessly condemning the tyrannical persecution perpetrated upon me by my enemies.
Let me also thank members of the diplomatic Corp from world democracies and Africa whose solidarity was priceless. I also want to thank world governments who remained alert to what was transpiring on my persecution. To the Free Job Sikhala Solidarity Movement, you were the missing link in Zimbabwe’s political equation. To my lawyers, words alone are insufficient to express my gratitude. To Mai Sikhala and family, thank you very much for your love. With all my love, May the Almighty God bless all of you.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Job Sikhala Expresses Willingness To Sacrifice Himself For Democracy And The People Of Zimbabwe

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala/">Job Wiwa Sikhala</a>, the former Member of Parliament for Zengeza West, celebrated his 51st birthday in Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison today. This is the second year in a row that he has spent his birthday in prison. He was sent to prison on June 14, 2022, after being accused of inciting public violence during the funeral wake of a slain CCC activist, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Moreblessing_Ali/">Moreblessing Ali</a>. The CCC party strongly opposes Sikhala’s continued detention and expresses their disapproval of the situation. Said the party:
<blockquote>
Today is Job Sikhala’s 51st birthday. He has spent both his 50th and 51st birthdays in prison for a crime he did not commit. Job Sikhala is a political prisoner who is being targeted and persecuted solely for his political beliefs. We must continue to advocate for his release.
</blockquote>
The party’s spokesperson <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Promise_Mkwananzi/">Promise Mkwananzi</a> shared his personal experience of being detained at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison/">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a> in 2016. He described arriving at the prison at dusk and witnessing the massive gates opening under the watchful eyes of heavily armed guards. Mkwananzi mentioned being placed in a holding cell with hardened criminals, and the challenges of staying strong for his fellow activists during their month-long detention. He added:
<blockquote>
As we celebrate Job Sikala’s 51st birthday, let us remember how torturous Prison conditions can be. More than FIVE HUNDRED DAYS of unlawful detention without trial. This man needs our prayers, our support &amp; our solidarity. Let us use his birthday today to celebrate his life, his sacrifices &amp; his service to the good cause for democracy in Zimbabwe, but let us also recommit ourselves to supporting him &amp; reviving the campaign for the immediate &amp; unconditional release of all political prisoners in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Gladys Kudzaishe Hlatywayo, another CCC official, expressed her grief over Job Sikhala’s “unjust” imprisonment for over 500 days while corrupt individuals go unpunished. She highlighted the stark contrast between an innocent man suffering in prison and those who steal from the nation’s funds facing no consequences. Kudzaishe deemed this grossly unfair and called attention to the injustice of the situation.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Former Zimbabwean MP Job Sikhala Spends 51st Birthday In Prison

Zimbabwean journalist <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Hopewell_Chin'ono/">Hopewell Chin’ono</a> has criticised <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa/">Nelson Chamisa</a>, the leader of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) for allegedly giving an evasive answer when asked about <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala">Job Sikhala</a>‘s political affiliation.
During a discussion on X formerly Twitter, a person named George Matipa asked Chamisa if Sikhala is still part of the CCC and if the party is doing everything possible to secure his release. In response, Chamisa said:
<blockquote>
Job is a Zimbabwean. He deserves freedom. His case is our cause and collective fight!!
</blockquote>
 
 
<img alt="" class="wp-image-265813 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="355" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 390px) 100vw, 390px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chamisa-and-Matipa-300x273.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chamisa-and-Matipa-300x273.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chamisa-and-Matipa-1024x931.jpeg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chamisa-and-Matipa-768x699.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chamisa-and-Matipa.jpeg 1284w" width="390"/>
The answer did not convince Chin’ono who argued that Chamisa was being evasive. He said: 
<div class="css-1dbjc4n">
<div class="css-1dbjc4n r-1s2bzr4">
<blockquote>
<div class="css-901oao r-18jsvk2 r-37j5jr r-1inkyih r-16dba41 r-135wba7 r-bcqeeo r-bnwqim r-qvutc0" data-testid="tweetText" dir="auto" id="id__s9ctth88i1b" lang="en">The question was not whether Job Sikhala is Zimbabwean or not, it was whether Job Sikhaka is still seen as part of CCC or not. This evasiveness is what makes people think and say that the CCC leadership is not doing enough. The question was a missed opportunity to unite us all by not being evasive but straight up. The response has othered Job Sikhala as just a Zimbabwean and not CCC, it has subcontracted the job to fight to everyone who is Zimbabwean and not CCC which is supposed to be his political home. But I know that there are some who are not yet ready to call a spade a spade.</div>
</blockquote>
<div data-testid="tweetText" dir="auto" lang="en">
Sikhala, a former Member of Parliament for Zengeza West, has been incarcerated since 14 June 2022 on allegations of inciting public violence during the funeral wake of slain CCC activist <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Moreblessing_Ali/">Moreblessing Ali</a> in the Nyatsime area. However, Sikhala vehemently denies these charges and argues that he is a political prisoner, being persecuted for his confrontations with the ruling party, ZANU PF, regarding maladministration and the erosion of the democratic space.
Critics have accused the CCC party of not doing enough to secure Sikhala’s release, which has sparked further controversy. Some political analysts have suggested that CCC leader Chamisa should engage President Mnangagwa in order to address the matter. However, others argue that such a move could set a precedent that undermines the rule of law. Calls have been made for Chamisa to organise protests demanding Sikhala’s release, while others urge him to continue advocating for justice through legal channels. 
There is speculation that Chamisa may fear Sikhala’s potential popularity upon his release, contributing to the hesitancy in taking more proactive measures. Last year, Chamisa was denied entry into <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a>, where he intended to visit Sikhala, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Godfrey_Sithole">Godfrey Sithole</a>, and 13 other party activists who were also detained.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>
</div>
</div>
</div>

Chin'ono Criticises Chamisa For "Evading" A Question About Sikhala's Political Affiliation

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala/">Job Sikhala</a>, a former Member of Parliament for <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zengeza/">Zengeza</a> West, is reportedly in critical condition. Sikhala has been held at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison/">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a> since June 2022.
Journalist <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Hopewell_Chin'ono/">Hopewell Chin’ono</a> reported that Sikhala is experiencing severe health problems, including passing blood in his waste. Sikhala’s lawyer, Mr. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harrison_Nkomo/">Harrison Nkomo</a>, confirmed his client’s condition and stated that Sikhala requested medical attention after experiencing discomfort in his stomach. Chin’ono said:
<blockquote>
I have just spoken to Harrison Nkomo the lawyer of Zimbabwe’s political prisoner and CCC politician, Job Sikhala. He confirmed to me that Sikhala is seriously ill and that he is passing blood in his stool. “He complained of a rumbling tummy and he asked me to bring a doctor today,” Nkomo said a few moments ago. Job Sikhala has been in Chikurubi maximum prison for 483 days without bail and without any custodial conviction. Bail is a right under Zimbabwe’s constitution, but it has been denied to Sikhala who many have said is being persecuted for his political activism using the police and judiciary.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tinomudaishe_Chinyoka/">Tinomudaishe Chinyoka</a>, a ZANU PF member and former <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Petrotrade/">PetroTrade</a> Board Chairperson, expressed concern about Sikhala being denied bail. He said:
<blockquote>
Bail is a right 
He has been denied this right 
The Constitutional Court exists to protect rights 
What’s more: a person can apply directly to the Constitutional Court on a matter involving his liberty without first making an application for direct access So, why hasn’t such an application been made. It’s not like @CCCZimbabwe_ has a shortage or or can’t afford lawyers, is it?
</blockquote>
Former Cabinet Minister, Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jonathan_Moyo/">Jonathan Moyo</a>, expressed his concern over the treatment of Job Sikhala. He called it shameful and a moral failure on the part of Zimbabwe’s institutions and those involved in the administration of criminal justice. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
The post by Hopewell Chin’ono is disquieting. What is happening to Job Sikhala is indescribably shameful and blights Zimbabwe itself, and exposes moral failure across the political divide; especially on the part of the country’s institutions and practitioners in the administration of criminal justice. Where is the collective duty of care? Over the years, we have endured more than enough awful history with such experiences, like Sikhala’s case, which should make all of us better than this, at all times. 
</blockquote>
Professor Jonathan Moyo echoed Chinyoka’s question about why Sikhala’s case hasn’t been brought to the Constitutional Court. He agreed that bail is a crucial constitutional right and criticized the lack of action to protect Sikhala’s right to bail. Moyo regarded this as a significant failure, particularly on the part of Sikhala’s colleagues in CCC.
Chinyoka, in agreement with Moyo, expressed frustration over Job Sikhala’s situation. He emphasized that Sikhala has not been charged with a crime deserving a longer sentence than the time he has already spent in prison. Chinyoka criticized the NPA and the bail courts for their handling of the case, suggesting they may have acted to please politicians rather than fulfilling their duty. He found it puzzling that Sikhala’s friends haven’t utilized legal avenues to secure his release. Chinyoka questioned whether blame is warranted in this situation.
Sikhala was arrested in 2022 for allegedly inciting public violence that erupted during the funeral wake of CCC’s slain activist, Moreblessing Ali. He has been in prison without a trial since then. He has been denied bail on numerous occasions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Chin'ono Says "Job Sikhala Is Seriously Ill"

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has warned that the Government will show no mercy to individuals who engage in politically-motivated violence ahead of the 23 August 2023 general elections.
Chiwenga made the remarks while addressing ZANU PF supporters in Stoneridge, Harare South constituency on Monday, 24 July. He was quoted by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014440/no-mercy-for-violence-perpetrators-chiwenga">NewsDay</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
What we expect is the peace, unity and love that you have maintained till today. We want peace till the voting day. We want love, unity and tolerance among ourselves as Zimbabweans.
That way we are going to shame what has been happening all these years. That is not going to happen again.
Those bent on violence will get your VIP ticket to Chikurubi [Maximum Security Prison]. We are not going to be merciful.
Elections are coming on August 23. The father will remain the father, mother, wife, grandfather, aunt or nephew.
So why should we attack each other? Are we not Zimbabweans? Let’s unite the children of Munhumutapa.
We are the most literate State in Africa. Why should we downgrade ourselves? What happened in the past remains in the past. We no longer want to see that in our country.
</blockquote>
Chiwenga claimed that Zimbabwe has the fasted GDP growth, not only in southern Africa but in the world, adding that the Government has managed to stabilise prices of goods and services.
He said the ZANU PF-led Government has made significant progress on infrastructure development in the past five years. Said Chiwenga: 
<blockquote>
Dams are now everywhere. We are not just constructing but at every dam, we are generating electricity.
If the construction of the Tugwi-Mukosi and Mutirikwi hydroelectricity stations in Masvingo are completed, we won’t be solely relying on electricity from Kariba or Hwange. It will be a standalone [project].
The Hwange units 7 and 8 to be commissioned by the head of State has enabled us to stop importing electricity.
There is no longer load shedding. If they switch off, it will be because of maintenance. We now have enough electricity.
</blockquote>
However, Zimbabweans continue to experience load shedding almost on a daily basis but for short periods of time compared to late last year into the first half of 2023 when the power cuts lasted more than 18 hours.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chikurubi Prison Awaits Perpetrators Of Violence - Chiwenga

Two <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Prisons_and_Correctional_Services">Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS)</a> officials have lost personal property in a case they were being accused of assaulting trespassers.
Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) reported that the two ZPCS officers, Michael Nduna and Florence Chihambakwe, were sued for damages amounting to US$5 250 in their personal capacity by Harare resident, Alex Tendai Gombedza.
In a court update seen by Pindula News, the lawyers said the ZPCS officers accused Gombedza and his friend Evidence Kutsawa of trespassing before assaulting them.
Gombedza and Kutsawa were walking through the Chikurubi Prison garden in Harare in January 2022 when they were assaulted.
After the assault, an aggrieved Gombedza engaged ZLHR’s Tinashe Chinopfukutwa and Paida Saurombe who in August 2022 sued Nduna and Chihambakwe for damages amounting to US$5 250.
The money was for the physical attack and ill-treatment, for pain and suffering, humiliation, an affront to dignity and embarrassment. 
Gombedza also cited Justice and Legal Affairs minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi and ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu among the respondents. 
What happened:
During the trial at Harare Civil Magistrates Court, Chinopfukutwa and Saurombe said Nduna and Chihambakwe instructed Gombedza and Kutsawa to lie down on the ground before assaulting them on their feet using wooden pick handles. 
After the assault, the ZPCS officers instructed some prisoners whom they were supervising to also assault the duo. As a result, Gombedza and Kutsawa sustained severe injuries and had to seek medical attention. 
Gombedza sustained injuries on his legs and feet which warranted admission to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospital for treatment. 
He said he suffered excruciating pain in his feet, which he still feels to date. 
According to medical reports, Gombedza suffered a 3% residual disability as a result of the injuries he sustained from the assault. 
Chinopfukutwa and Saurombe argued that their client felt greatly humiliated, embarrassed, dehumanised and degraded by the assaults and ill-treatment that he received at the hands of the ZPCS officers. 
The human rights lawyers stated that Nduna and Chihambakwe treated Gombedza as if he was a dangerous criminal yet he was unarmed and posed no security threat whatsoever. 
Furthermore, Chinopfukutwa and Saurombe argued that there was no justification for the excessive use of force against Gombedza as he had not committed any crime but was just going about his business walking on his way to Harare’s central business centre. 
In the end, Nduna and Chihambakwe were ordered to pay compensation amounting to US$5 250 to Gombedza broken down as:
<blockquote>
i). US$2 500 for damages for humiliation, embarrassment, an affront to dignity and contumelia, 
ii). US$2 500 for pain and suffering 
iii). US$250 for medical expenses which he incurred while being treated. 
</blockquote>
Now, the ZPCS officers have lost some personal property, which was attached and removed by the Messenger of Court on Friday 23 March 2023 and will be auctioned to recover the judgment debt owed to Gombedza. 
Among the household property which Nduna lost include a set of sofas, a deep freezer, a television set, a wardrobe &amp; a printer. Chihambakwe lost a set of sofas, a television set and a room divider.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZPCS Officers Lose Personal Property For Assaulting "Trespassers"

An armed robber who was apprehended and assaulted by members of the public in Beitbridge escaped from Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison in November last year.
Mhikia Pirikisi of Farm 159 Dewure Small Scale Farms near Tirizi School in Gutu, was serving a four-and-half-year term for armed robbery when he escaped from prison in November 2022.
When he was arrested in Beitbridge, Pirikisi misled the police into believing he was Hendrik Nyathi.
However, an investigation by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200007608/beitbridge-armed-robber-escaped-from-chikurubi">NewsDay</a> helped police confirm he was a jail breaker.
As of Friday, 17 February, Pirikisi had been at large for 97 days with just 167 days left of his jail term following his conviction in Harare for case number CRB R156/18.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) spokesperson Chief Superintendent Meya Khanyezi on Friday confirmed to NewsDay that Pirikisi had escaped from jail. He said:
<blockquote>
It is the duty of ZPCS to ensure that inmates awaiting trial and convicted do not escape from lawful custody. 
Nonetheless, some offenders sometimes employ various methods to find themselves out of confinement before finalisation of their sentences or other circumstances requiring them to be detained.
We would like to assure society that as a correctional institution, we remain committed to our mandate as provided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe to ensure that those behind the walls are incarcerated, rehabilitated, and reintegrated into their respective communities.
</blockquote>
On Friday, Pirikisi appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Innocent Bepura.
He pleaded guilty to charges of robbing Nigel Mazhanara of Beitbridge US$30 000 and R50 000.
He also faces attempted murder charges.
Pirikisi is expected back in court on Monday when prosecutor Tsitsi Mutukwa will produce Mazhanara’s medical affidavit.

"Beitbridge Armed Robber Had Escaped From Chikurubi Prison"

Zengeza West Member of Parliament (MP), <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala">Job Sikhala</a>, has reiterated that he is prepared to be killed for defending the values and principles of a free and open democratic society, exuding happiness, free of impunity and fear.
Sikhala has been in prison since June 2022 when he was arrested and charged with inciting public violence which erupted during the funeral wake of slain Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Moreblessing_Ali">Moreblessing Ali. </a>
In his New Year message seen by Pindula News, Sikhala who is the CCC deputy national chairperson said the democratic space has been shrinking in Zimbabwe reminding of the precolonial era when there were gross violations of human rights. We present the letter below:
<blockquote>
Beloved Zimbabweans!
Happy New Year Dear Compatriots:
I sincerely congratulate and wish you all, Dear Compatriots, a happy and prosperous 2023. Let us all thank the Almighty God for his grace in taking us all into the new year. We thank you Lord for your eternal love.
Dear Zimbabweans, it is with regret and most unfortunate that I now share with you, a personal issue that I have kept to myself for the past three weeks. It is something that I did not share with anyone and kept to myself for these past 3 weeks. I had kept it to myself for the sake of my children and my wife. I know how much it will affect them.
I have not been feeling well for the past three weeks. A pain that started mildly on the left side of my abdomen has steadily grown to be extremely heavy and excessive by each passing day. There is some painful strike that exudes itself from the left side which I don’t really understand and do not know what it is. I pray that it is not colon cancer. It is worrying me very seriously.
Since the day I vomited and had a ceaseless running stomach, some time ago, which was widely reported, the prison authorities refused to allow my doctor to attend to me. This is despite the fact that my doctors came several times in the company of my lawyers Beatrice Mtetwa and Doug Coltart. Since then, I have stopped requesting the permission of my doctor to attend to me. The pain is severe during the night especially when I sleep by that left side. I ask all of you dear Zimbabweans, to pray for me to be healed of this pain. There is nothing beyond the cure of God.
I know the year 2022, like all the years of the past decade, has been catastrophic to all of us. The economic decay and the suffering of the general masses of our people has reached tragic levels. There has also been:
 • closure, completely, of all the democratic space in the country, 
• sharp growth of impunity, 
• arbitrary arrests
 • escalation in human rights abuses, which has resulted in some of us becoming long-term guests at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison in extremely curious circumstances, 
• the passage of oppressive laws, similar in nature and context to those administered by Ian Douglas Smith’s Rhodesia and apartheid South Africa. 
• The use and application of terror and violence as instruments of political coercion witnessed during the past by-elections, the barring of CCC political races in various places.
<h2>Our country is in a crisis!</h2>
Freedom of expression has been completely shut down. Any criticism of the government is viciously crushed. What I know is that the world will not allow you to perish on your own dearest Zimbabweans. From the SADC region, voices of reason shall emerge. The African Union, United Nations and all outposts of democracy shall speak out in defense of our people under siege. I understand you might be outside, and I am inside, but our suffering and pain is the same. We are all under attack. What is happening to me today may happen to you tomorrow.
As for me dear compatriots, it is both in the public and world glare that I am going through the persecution of century, over spurious, if not bizarre allegations. It’s now almost seven months and the choreographed script plays on. As I always alluded, I am prepared to be killed.
What I stood for was correct both on earth and in heaven. Moreblessing All was a woman, viciously kidnapped and brutally murdered. I was instructed by her family to be their lawyer. I am proud for having represented their interests to the best of my abilities. If I am killed dear compatriots, I am prepared to meet the fate in defense of values and principles I hold dearly; values of a free and open democratic society, exuding happiness, free of impunity and fear.
Even if I die, dear Zimbabweans, my persecution has taught me two important stations someone should pass through in life to understand and appreciate the true circle of life. One is college and the other is prison. College takes you through the interactive journey of intellectual discourse and acquisition of knowledge to equip you and enable you to cope with the challenges of today and tomorrow. It links you to the consistency of solid acquaintances who will in the future, stand in your corner come rain or sunshine, whatever difficult trial or tribulation, no matter how seemingly insurmountable. It reveals to you that knowledge alone is inadequate if it doesn’t locate within you, humility and empathy. It is a social construct. It links life with the needs and demands of the general masses of the people.
Prison teaches one the injustices and cruelty of the wicked. It opens up the mind to understand how power can be used irresponsibly to inflict maximum pain to the innocent and the powerless. Prison is the uppermost university that taught me that, those who hold power should learn to exercise their authority without an ounce of arrogance, aggression or force. The tough conditions here at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison have taught me to strengthen mastery over emotions. Many leaders tend to be conceited and arrogant when they grow to have power over millions. Many men have faced adversity, but if you truly wish to test the character of a man, give him power and thereafter watch the theatrics.
With respect, prison teaches one to distinguish real and true friends on the one hand and hypocrites on the other. It opened me and exorcised from me some fallacies and falsehoods I had about some people around me. It made discover that my sincere, genuine and eternal friends are the masses and peoples of Zimbabwe, cutting across all classes and professions, domestically and in the diaspora. The passion of their roars and bellows I hear on a daily basis, is amazing and extra-ordinary. A million kisses of love my dearest friends. Your sharing of pain with me is historic.
Genuine friends are seen by the sweat of their efforts, to fight on the side of their cornered friend. The vociferous voices of clamor in every village, township, growth point, town or city in Zimbabwe is being heard echoing every day. Those in all the far corners of the world have demonstrated unmatched support and empathy over the suffering of one their own. Thank you good people!
<h2>What does it take to stand with your friend?</h2>
The University of Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison has revealed to me treacherous hypocrites, sell outs, colluders with my persecution, opportunists trying to capitalize on the predicament of the moment for cheap political and financial gain from my tormentors. Some wished me dead. I am sick. Please, they must then pray for my death. Some plotted schemes to destroy me by spreading false intelligence given to them by their handlers and are dabbling in rumor-mongering and get into deals to the extent of carrying poisoned food to deliver it with a friendly smile. I am aware of all their shenanigans.
Unjust incarceration also taught me who the real true friends of the people of Zimbabwe are. Nations who stand for the truth and uprightness are seek speaking fearlessly against unjust persecution. I would like to thank them all.
Prison also taught me the role of the progressive and fearless fourth estate in contrast to urging and abetting impunity. Domestically and internationally the voices of the progressives are expounded with clarity.
My dear friends, I thank you all. 
Have a happy and prosperous 2023! 
Job Wiwa Sikhala 
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"I'm Prepared To Be Killed" - Sikhala's New Year Message

The Special Tactics Team re-arrested Panashe Chinyama (24) who <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/prisoner-escapes-from-chikurubi-maximum-security-prison/">last week escaped</a> from <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison">Chikurubi Farm Prison</a> where he was serving a one-year sentence after being convicted of malicious damage to property.
Chinyama was re-arrested while sleeping at his Whitecliff house in Harare at the weekend.
Chinyama escaped last Wednesday from the prison while he was working at a nursery resulting in prison and police officers launching a manhunt for him.
He was arrested at his house at around 1 am by members of the Special Tactics Team following a tip-off from a concerned citizen.
Chinyama, who was a B Class inmate, had served eight months of his term and was due to be released on March 28 next year, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chikurubi-escapee-rearrested-sleeping-at-his-house/">The Herald</a> reported citing Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Meya Khanyezi. She is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
The ‘B’ class inmate who escaped from lawful custody on 7 December was recaptured by the Special Tactics team around 1am. “We got information from a responsible and loyal citizen of Zimbabwe that the escapee had been seen at his home in Whitecliff area and was likely to be sleeping in his room.
We want to encourage all citizens of Zimbabwe to remain supportive of ZPCS.
</blockquote>
ZPCS recently said 116 inmates escaped from correctional facilities between January 2021 and October this year.
Most of the fugitives were B-class inmates, who are allowed to be outside for work duties while serving their terms. 
ZPCS is installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems at maximum security prisons, arming its officers and reinforcing the canine section to avert future prison breaks.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Chikurubi Prison Escapee Re-arrested While Sleeping At Home

A 24-year-old prisoner has escaped from Chikurubi Maximum Prison in Harare where he was serving a one-year term for a charge of malicious damage to property.
Danaishe Chinyama escaped from prison on Wednesday after he had served eight months in prison.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
Police in Harare are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Danaishe Chinyama (24) for escaping from Chikurubi Maximum Prison on 07/12/22.
The suspect was serving 12 months imprisonment for malicious damage to property and had served eight months.
Anyone with information to report at any nearest police station.
</blockquote>

Prisoner Escapes From Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison

Opposition <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> has said the Zimbabwean government is behind terrorism in the southern African country.
He made the remarks after he was Thursday blocked by the government from visiting detained party legislators Job Sikhala (Zengeza West), Godfrey Sithole (Chitungwiza North) and 13 others.
Sikhala and others were arrested in June for allegedly inciting the 14 June violence which erupted in Nyatsime during the funeral wake of slain CCC activist Moreblessing Ali.
Speaking to reporters soon after being denied entry to Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison where the politicians are being held, Chamisa said: 
<blockquote>
When a government is at the core and at the forefront of abusing citizens, it’s a difficult thing. In other countries, terrorism is done by sections of society. In our country, terrorism is actually instigated by government. We have issues in the country, and human rights abuses are rampant. Our colleagues have spent over 120 days in prison with no trial. Pre-trial incarceration; detention without trial is a serious international human rights violation. Sikhala, Sithole and all the Nyatsime heroes are not criminals. They have not committed any offence. They are political prisoners and it’s on account of the toxic politics in this country.
</blockquote>
Chamisa claimed that Justice minister <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/ziyambi-blocks-chamisa-from-meeting-job-sikhala-at-chikurubi-prison/">Ziyambi Ziyambi had ordered prison officers to deny him access to his imprisoned colleagues.</a>
Chamisa was made to wait for more than three hours outside the gates. He later met the prison officer-in-charge who turned him away.
This is despite Chamisa having written to prison authorities demanding that he be allowed to visit the incarcerated CCC members. He was granted permission after threatening legal action against prison authorities.
Last week, MDC-Alliance leader Douglas Mwonzora was cleared to visit Sikhala. 
Chamisa said he would challenge the restriction.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"In Our Country, Terrorism Is Actually Instigated By Government" - Chamisa

The Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi on Thursday described CCC leader Nelson Chamisa as a pathological liar after the opposition leader told journalists that he had been barred from meeting jailed CCC activists by the ZANU PF politician.
On Thursday Chamisa visited Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison to see jailed opposition MPs Job Sikhala and Godfrey Sithole and 14 other CCC activists who have all been languishing in remand prison at Chikurubi since June.
Chamisa said that after being made to wait at the jail for more than two hours, the officer in charge, one Hukurume, informed him that he had been instructed by Ziyambi that he (Chamisa) will not be allowed to see Sikhala and the other CCC activists.
However, speaking to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/10/ziyambi-slams-pathological-liar-chamisa-dragging-name-into-prison-circus/">ZimLive</a>, Ziyambi castigated Chamisa for trying to drag him into the matter. He said:
<blockquote>
That guy is a pathological liar; who did I give that instruction to? I am not even aware of his request to go and visit the prison.
I do not stoop that low to go down to administer regulations on who is supposed to go to prison and who should not.
I have never been asked for permission for relatives to visit prisoners. I am actually hearing it from you that he is saying I denied him entry, when? I am very busy.
Chamisa is a politician; he plays to the gallery. I don’t know about it.
Call the officer in charge and ask him about it. I think that is the fairest thing that you can do because you want me to comment on hearsay. Call the actual person.
I cannot comment on hearsay. He never came to me but he is accusing me of things that happened when I was not there.
I have not spoken to any prison officer concerning Chamisa.
</blockquote>
Chamisa’s visit to Chikurubi on Thursday came after Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Chief Director Legal Resources and Corporate Affairs Commissioner Willie Risiro granted him permission to visit his comrades.
The CCC leader’s first attempt to visit the prison was denied two weeks ago, prompting him to engage lawyers to demand access.

Ziyambi Brands Chamisa "A Pathological Liar" After Prison Circus

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi on Thursday barred CCC president Nelson Chamisa from meeting jailed MPs Job Sikhala and Godfrey Sithole and the other party activists from the Nyatsime area who are currently detained at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
Chamisa visited the prison on Thursday morning and was made to wait for three hours before he was informed by prison authorities that he could not see his colleagues.
Speaking to reporters, Chamisa said prison authorities said they had received instructions from Ziyambi to bar him from seeing Sikhala and the other CCC activists. Said Chamisa:
It’s so disheartening to know that just after we had been made to wait for three hours, we were then told that we can now enter to be able to see our colleagues.
<blockquote>
We were then invited to the office of the Officer in Charge of prisons Mr. Hukurume. He indicated to us that it is unfortunate that we are not able to see Honourable Job Sikhala and the other Nyatsime colleagues, our citizen heroes because the Minister of Justice has instructed that we can’t see them.
We were surprised because they had made us wait for almost two, three hours. You can bear witness and testimony to that.
But all of a sudden they said they had received an instruction that you cannot see all your colleagues. So we are not able to see them.
It is an embarrassment, it is harassment, and it is unacceptable that we have this kind of abuse of the law.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPSC) said Chamisa was free to visit his colleagues at Chikurubi, and today’s events came as a surprise to the opposition leader.
MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora was recently given permission by ZPCS to visit Sikhala and Sithole but the duo allegedly refused to meet him.
Sikhala, Sithole, and the other 14 CCC activists from Nyatsime have been in pre-trial detention since June on charges ranging from inciting violence to public violence.

Ziyambi Blocks Chamisa From Meeting Job Sikhala At Chikurubi Prison

Opposition MPs Job Sikhala and Godfrey Sithole are now worried about their safety after prison officials at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison considered sending MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora to their cells against their expressed wishes.
This was said by the duo’s spokesman, Freddy Michael Masarirevu in a statement issued on Sunday, 16 October 2022.
Masarirevu disputed Mwonzora’s claims on Saturday he had met Sikhala, Sithole and the other 14 CCC activists from Nyatsime who have been in pre-trial detention since June on charges ranging from inciting violence to public violence.
He said prison officials tried desperately to facilitate a meeting between Mwonzora and Sikhala yet the same officials have barred CCC leader Nelson Chamisa from visiting his colleagues. Wrote Masarirevu:
<blockquote>
Hon. Sikhala and Hon. Sithole want the public to know that on the 14th of October 2022, they were advised that Senator Douglas Mwonzora intended to visit them. 
This information came through the prison security team. The two declined the request and gave the officials their reasons, which were communicated on that very same day. 
On Saturday the 15th of October 2022, the same senior prison security officials came, informing them that Sen. Mwonzora had come to visit them, despite their express statement declining the request. 
Hon. Sikhala and Hon. Sithole again refused and opted to remain in their cells whilst Sen. Mwonzora waited outside the gate. 
Some prison officials confirmed today that Sen. Mwonzora did not even make it to the second gate. There are five gates one has to pass through to be able to see inmates.
It is very sad and unfortunate that a person as senior and learned as Sen. Mwnonzora would mislead the public into thinking that he met Hon. Sikhala and Hon. Sithole in prison. 
His public statement which he issued to members of the press whom he went with to Chikurubi Maximum claiming to have met both Hon. Sikhala and Hon. Sithole is therefore incorrect and should be dismissed with uttermost contempt. 
Hon. Sikhala and Hon. Sithole are very angry at some senior officials at Chikurubi for wanting to impose a visit on them. 
The security officials even made a suggestion that Sen. Mwonzora be allowed to come directly to their cells and guarantee privacy, a request that was turned down. 
As much as the gesture is appreciated, the Honourable MPs wonder why Sen. Mwonzora invited members of the press to come with him if the visit was genuine. 
Secondly, why would he even insist on visiting them when they had made it clear that they were not comfortable meeting him? 
The two are also questioning why officials allowed Sen. Mwonzora permission to visit them yet a similar request was denied for President Nelson Chamisa. 
The two are now worried and concerned about their welfare and security.
</blockquote>

Job Sikhala Living In Fear After Mwonzora Visit

Jailed Zengeza West Member of Parliament, Job Sikhala has written a letter informing Zimbabweans that he has appointed lawyer Freddy Masarirevu as his family and personal spokesman with immediate effect. Sikhala said thousands of people have been contacting his wife and family about his well-being. Pindula News presents the letter:
<blockquote>
Chikurubhi Maximum Security Prison 
P. Bag 7392 
Greendale 
Harare 
09 September 2022
<h2>RE : APPOINTMENT OF FREDDY MICHAEL MASARIREVU AS MY FAMILY AND PERSONAL SPOKESPERSON</h2>
After my arrest and incarceration since the night of the 14th of June 2022 up to present, I have noticed the following;
1. That thousands of concerned people throughout the world have been phoning my wife, children and family members inquiring about my wellbeing.
I have noticed with grave concern the serious signs of depression my wife and children are going through. 
I realized that the depression my wife is going through has been occasioned by her assumption of some huge responsibilities of taking care of our young family by herself.
I thought it is wise to appoint someone who will give you updates promptly at every term and all information concerning myself. Your huge love cannot be unattended.
2. That there is dearth of information of what is really happening around my person behind these walls of Chikurubhi Maximum Security Prison.
3. That the people of Zimbabwe and greater world audience are not being informed about my true personal position and opinion on several issues of political development.
This is the responsibility that I have bestowed upon the shoulders of this young brilliant mind knowing well his ability to withstand pressure and the depth of his finest brains.
Any need for inquiries concerning myself should be directed to him.
Hon. Job Sikhala
Chikurubhi Maximum Prison
</blockquote>
Sikhala has been in prison since 14 June when he was arrested over the Nyatsime violence that erupted during the funeral wake of slain Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist, Moreblessing Ali. Courts have denied him bail on several occasions. 
The CCC led by Nelson Chamisa says Sikhala is a political prisoner adding that the state is politicising bail
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Jailed Sikhala Appoints Family And Personal Spokesperson

The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) has given the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) four days to return nine party members from Chikurubi Maximum Prison in Harare back to Khami Maximum Prison where they were jailed.
During this week, ZPCS transferred the nine MRP activists from Khami to the notorious Chikurubi and Gwanda prisons.
The activists were convicted of public violence in June this year and seven of them are serving 33 months each in prison while the other two were jailed for 36 months each.
Addressing journalists at the Bulawayo Media Centre on Thursday, MRP’s Youth League Chairperson, Mudenda Chilumbo, threatened to camp outside the Bulawayo High Court in protest until the activists are returned. Said Chilumbo:
<blockquote>
MRP wishes to put it with clarity, authority and conviction that the systematic and political mechanisms of Emmerson Mnangagwa of taking political prisoners from Matabeleland to Harare to kill them is unbecoming, barbaric and unheard of and shall be resisted with equal measure.
… From today (Thursday), Mnangagwa and his cronies must provide credible and constitutional justice to our members without failure.
If they are not prepared to concede to our demands, as MRP family we are prepared to die for our independence, freedom and justice and from day one, we will gather at Bulawayo High Court, day in, day out demanding the release of our innocent members.
</blockquote>
The MRP activists were convicted for public violence after they stormed Bulawayo Central Police station in 2021 protesting what they considered a failed abduction of party leader Mqondisi Moyo by state security agents. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/mrp-youths-demand-return-of-activists-transferred-to-chikurubi-prison/">CITE</a>

MRP Youths Demand Return Of Activists Transferred To Chikurubi Prison

Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> was Monday denied entry into <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a> where he sought to visit jailed Members of Parliament,<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala"> Job Sikhala</a>, and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Godfrey_Sithole">Godfrey Sithole</a>, and 13 other party activists.
The CCC lawmakers were arrested a month ago on allegations of inciting public violence which erupted in Nyatsime in the funeral wake of slain CCC activist <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Moreblessing_Ali">Moreblessing Ali.</a> Chamisa tweeted:
<blockquote>
IT’S SO BIZARRE…Yesterday I visited the <a class="link-complex" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Nyatsime13" rel="hashtag noopener" target="_blank">#Nyatsime13</a> &amp; it was all panic at Chikurubi maximum prison. They wouldn’t let me in because of what they alleged to be my extraordinary ‘status’ in society. They directed me to the ‘highest office’ to be cleared. This is just abuse of power!
<img decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FYkmdj2XwAEXvnr?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
</blockquote>
CCC deputy spokesperson <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gift_Ostallos_Siziba">Gift Ostallos Siziba</a> said Chamisa was made to wait for three hours before being told that he is a high-profile political leader he was supposed to seek clearance first from the police.
Siziba said they were going to meet police commissioner general Godwin Matanga for a way forward. He said:
<blockquote>
This behaviour by ZANU PF of trying to employ the prisons to act in a manner that is unprofessional and unpartisan is barbaric, inhumane, illegal, and uncalled for because we are Zimbabwean citizens and Zanu PF has no monopoly over the infrastructure of the state.
We must be able to have access to our champions who are in prison, they are there because they are victims of state sponsored and Zanu PF engineered charges.
Tomorrow we are going to meet with the commissioner general of the police to find out this new procedure that is illegal and not in the law about how Chamisa is going to access prisoners.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the CCC spokesperson Fadzai Mahere told <a href="https://youtu.be/8aj-ejaWjgY">eNCA</a>, a South African broadcaster that the arrest and continued detention of party activists was concerning especially considering that three of the 14 who were arrested had actually their homes burnt. She added:
<blockquote>
Instead of the perpetrators of that arson being arrested, they are the ones being dragged to court. Two of them are just lorry drivers who were caught in the crossfire of this crackdown by the regime against opposition as if it’s a crime to be CCC and our organisation has been banned.
</blockquote>
Sikhala and others have been denied bail and remain incarcerated at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison, now viewed in some quarters as a symbol of opposition leaders’ ‘persecution by prosecution’ by Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU PF government.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Chamisa Barred From Visiting Jailed Job Sikhala And Other CCC Activists

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> MP for Zengeza West, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala">Job Sikhala</a>, has written a letter to members of the public appreciating the love they are showing to him as he remains incarcerated at Chikurubi Maximum Prison. Sikhala was arrested and detained for allegedly inciting violence that was recorded in Nyatsime in the funeral wake of CCC’s slain activist Moreblessing Ali. In a letter seen by Pindula News, Sikhala said he was in high spirits. Pindula News presents the letter in full below:
<blockquote>
<h2>An Epistle From Chikurubi Maximum Prison</h2>
Dear Zimbabweans,
We would like to thank you all dear Zimbabweans for the demonstration of love, care and unbridled concern for the pain we are going through. We feel your love even when we are under incarceration here at Chikurubi Maximum Prison.
We are pleased that besides members of our own political party CCC, all Zimbabweans of different political, social and ideological persuasion are standing with us.
Although I am going through difficult moments at present with the escalated persecution of my own and my other colleagues here in prison with me, be grateful beloved compatriots that we are all in high spirits.
I went through an unexplainable illness, I am on the road to recovery, please pray for us.
Standing for the weak and downtrodden in society as I did for Moreblessing Ali and many others is my God’s is calling.
My reward is in heaven, I do it selflessly, and sometimes I end up asking myself why my conscience is always triggered to stand for the predicament of other people. I was just born like that by my mother and father.
</blockquote>
<h2>Pindula News</h2>

CCC MP Job Sikhala Writes From Chikurubi [FT]

An inmate at Chikurubi Maximum Prison (Chikurubi), Taurai Dodzo, has sued the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) over negligence to promote prisoners’ health and welfare.
Dodzo who is being represented by Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum claims that after the outbreak of waterborne diseases at the Harare correctional facility, authorities failed to take measures to protect inmates who were not ill.
In his application now before the High Court, Dodzo claims the prison has been hit by diarrhoea, hepatitis B and Tuberculosis outbreak a situation that has been worsened by continued unavailability of clean water. He said:
<blockquote>The shortage of water has resulted in an outbreak of serious diseases including diarrhoea, hepatitis B and Tuberculosis. Regrettably, prison officials do not separate sick prisoners from the healthy ones.</blockquote>
Dodzo also cited ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu, Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Agriculture minister Anxious Masuka, Finance minister Mthuli Ncube and the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission as respondents.
He wants the court to order the authorities to ensure that temporary measures which include the use of mobile water bowsers and isolation of ill prisoners are put in place to ensure the safety of inmates.
The prisoner also wants Ncube ordered to immediately release funds for supplementary daily water supplies to the jail.
Dodzo also wants the prison clinic to be fully stocked with all essential medicines and installed with requisite technology.
He echoed the remarks by journalist Hopewell Chin’ono that the prison is currently overpopulated with 2 000 inmates instead of 1 360.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chikurubi-inmate-sues-govt-after-diarrhoea-nightmare/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe</a>

Govt Sued Over Diarrhoea, Hepatitis B, TB At Chikurubi

<blockquote>A HIGH Court Judge on Friday 26 June 2020 set free three victims of abduction and torture, who had been languishing in prison for close to two weeks, after they were denied bail by Harare Magistrate Bianca Makwande on Monday 15 June 2020.
High Court Judge Justice Davison Foroma ordered the release from Chikurubi Maximum Prison of Harare West legislator Hon. Joana Mamombe aged 27 years, Cecelia Chimbiri aged 31 years and Netsai Marova aged 25 years, after presiding over the hearing and determination of a bail appeal filed by their lawyers Alec Muchadehama, Jeremiah Bamu, Tinomuda Shoko and Roselyn Hanzi of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.
Hon. Mamombe, Chimbiri and Marova were arrested by Zimbabwe Republic Police members on 11 June 2020 and charged with publishing or communicating false statements prejudicial to the state as defined in section 31(a)(ii) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act and publishing or communicating false statements prejudicial to the state as defined in section 31(a)(iii) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. The trio was also charged with defeating or obstructing the course of justice as defined in section 184(1)(f) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
The trio’s freedom bid had been dismissed by Magistrate Makwande who on 15 June 2020 told Hon. Mamombe, Chimbiri and Marova that she vetoed their bail application after being convinced that there were compelling reasons not to admit them to bail as they were likely to abscond from trial.
But Justice Foroma on Friday 26 June 2020 set free Hon. Mamombe, Chimbiri and Marova after ruling that Magistrate Makwande had misdirected herself when she denied bail to Hon. Mamombe, Chimbiri and Marova.
The Judge ordered the trio to pay RTGS$10 000 each as bail money, to report at the Criminal Investigations Department’s Law and Order Section at Harare Central Police Station on Mondays Wednesdays and Fridays, to continue residing at their given residential addresses, not to interfere with state witnesses and to keep their passports in the possession and custody of the Clerk of Court at Harare Magistrates Court until their matter is finalised.
Justice Foroma also barred the trio from communicating whether directly or otherwise with any of the public and or private media including on social media in connection with their matter.
Hon. Mamombe, Chimbiri and Marova went missing on 13 May 2020, when they were abducted in Harare by some unidentified people and were later found on 15 May 2020 after being dumped in Bindura in Mashonaland Central province.
They have already been charged with committing public violence after they were arrested on 26 May 2020 for allegedly participating in an anti-government protest against hunger during the national lockdown period as defined in section 37 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act and for contravening section 5(3) (a) as read with section 5(1) of Statutory Instrument 99 of 2020 of Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) Order, 2020 and will stand trial in August.
Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights</blockquote>

Human Rights Lawyers Statement On The Release From Prison Of MDC-A Activists {Full Tex}

Jailed RMG End Time Message founder and leader, Robert Martin Gumbura said that his wives remain loyal to him even after spending many years in prison.
Speaking to The Herald on Thursday during the Prison and Correctional Services Family Week, Gumbura said:
<blockquote>Look at all my wives as they sit there, which one do you think I will divorce, which one?.
You can ask them, they are all here, all the mothers are here.
Gumbura’s wives and children had visited him at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison as part of the Prison and Correctional Services Family Week facility.
Gumbura’s spokesperson and second wife, Queen Bunga, vowed that the wives will remain loyal to their husband. She said:
It was a lie. We know that media will be looking at selling their newspapers, so we just ignore it. We will remain loyal to our husband.</blockquote>
Gumbura was convicted of four counts of rape in 2014 and sentenced to 40 years in prison. He has 21 wives, nine of whom do not have children with him.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/gumbura-wives-stand-by-hubby/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Gumbura's Wives Vow Never To Forsake Jailed Cleric

Kevin Pato, a murder suspect has completely lost his sense of hearing in remand prison thereby complicating his chances of trial. The disability has been medically ascertained, bringing his murder trial to a halt.
The accused however can still speak, read and write. This does less to help the situation as egal experts said communication through writing notes was not possible in a court of law.
It is alleged that Pato committed murder in the course of a robbery, an offence that attracts the death penalty if he is found guilty.
<div class="sirius-dfp-inarticle">National Director of Public Prosecution Mr. Nelson Mutsonziwa said that the State will find a way to ensure trial commences since the accused is facing serious charges. Speaking to the Herald, Mutsonziwa said:</div>
<blockquote>The accused should be trained in using sign language to ensure trial commences.
He stands accused of a very serious offence and we cannot decline prosecution in the public interest.
If it was some petty offences, one would have considered setting him free but the offence he faces attracts the death penalty.
The only way forward is to train him to use sign language.</blockquote>
Pato confirmed his latest condition to The Herald at Chikurubi Maximum Prison. He also said that he would want to be released at least on bail. Prison officers, however, said they do not have issues having him there.
<h3>Related:</h3>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/05/02/police-arrest-suspected-tshabalala-armed-robbers/" rel="bookmark">Police Arrest Suspected Tshabalala Armed Robbers</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/04/11/woman-raped-and-murdered/" rel="bookmark">Bulawayo Woman Found Dead In A suspected Rape And Murder Case</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/02/04/state-prosecutor-suspects-walter-mzembi-is-faking-illness/" rel="bookmark">State Prosecutor Suspects Walter Mzembi Is Faking Illness</a></li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/catch-22-as-killer-suspect-turns-deaf/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

Murder Trial Halted As Suspect Becomes Deaf

Robert Martin Gumbura the former leader of RMG Independent End Time Message who was convicted of rape has thanked the government for introducing the prison family visits. Gumbura managed to reunite with his family which consists of 21 wives and 34 children for two days to discuss and make plans in privacy. Gumbura is serving a 40-year sentence for rape at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
His appeal against conviction was recently dismissed by High Court judges Justices Charles Hungwe and Edith Mushore.
Speaking on the prison family visits Gumbura said:
<blockquote>Prisoners are happy with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) and the government for this move.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/10/jailed-clergyman-gumbura-reunites-family/">NewsDay</a>

Gumbura thanks govt for introducing 'prison family visits' after reuniting with entire family

Activist and founder of <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/ThisFlag_Movement_Zimbabwe" target="_blank">ThisFlag Movement</a> <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Evan_Mawarire" target="_blank">Pastor Evan Mawarire</a> has released his first video since his arrest and detetntion at <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison" target="_blank">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a>.  Mawarire was arrested after 6 months in exile in the United States.
In this Video Mawarire says, among other things:
<ul>
<li>He has always stressed that he was coming back home.</li>
<li>He wanted to ensure the safety of his family first.</li>
<li>He was arrested for a crime he did not commit.</li>
<li>Citizens who have not committed any crime, should not be afraid to participate in building their country</li>
<li>Thank you, Zimbabwe for the great reception he received.</li>
<li>Thank you, Zimbabwe for your support and prayers.</li>
<li>Everything that you did was for Zimbabwe and fro your families</li>
</ul>
https://youtu.be/eeqUgfqaXeo 
More: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeqUgfqaXeo&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">Youtube</a>

Pastor Evan Mawarire's first public speech after Chikurubi detention

<a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Evan_Mawarire" target="_blank">Pastor Evan Mawarire</a> was transferred from Harare Remand Prison to <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison" target="_blank">Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison</a>. This happened without his lawyers being notified. Members of the movement that he started, <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/This_Flag_Movement" target="_blank"> #ThisFlag</a> had gone with food for Pastor Evan Mawarire when they were notified that he was transferred to <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Chikurubi_Maximum_Security_Prison" target="_blank">Chikurubi Maximum Prison</a>,  which normally houses convicted murders, armed robbers and rapists among other felons.
Mawarire is yet to be convicted of any crime, and his trial is set to start on the 17th of February 2017.  He was denied bail yesterday at the Magistrate’s Court and has been asked to apply for bail at the High Court.
One of his lawyers <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere" target="_blank">Advocate Fadzayi Mahere</a>  decried the state of prison cells in Zimbabwe saying:
<blockquote>Police cells are awful. 
Remand prison is inhuman. 
Chikurubi serious crimes section is hell.</blockquote>
She also decried the fact that in Zimbabwe, innocent people are condemned while the guilty walk free. Speaking on her Facebook page, Mahere said:
<blockquote>Pastor <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Evan_Mawarire" target="_blank">Evan Mawarire</a> has been classified as a “D” Class remand prisoner and is being detained at Chikurubi Prison where convicted murderers are held instead of the normal remand holding centre.
This is not about Pastor E as an individual but it’s a battle for the soul of Zimbabwe. Are we a constitutional democracy – where free speech, free assembly, free conscience and political rights are respected – or not?
Do we speak out or do we choose apathy?</blockquote>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<blockquote>Do we hold onto disappointment that he chose family over fame – or do we rally behind what his incarceration represents for us as a country?
Police cells are awful. 
Remand prison is inhuman. 
Chikurubi serious crimes section is hell.
The injustice of his circumstances require unity on our part. This is offensive to the core.
This is a country where the innocent face prison and real criminals walk free.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=fadzayi%20mahere" target="_blank">Fadzayi Mawarire Facebook Page</a>
</div>

Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison Latest News

Latest Jobs