Acting President, Constantino Chiwenga, has applauded rescue teams that saved <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/08/metallon-corporation-update-on-redwing-mine-operations/">15 miners that had been trapped</a> at Redwing Mine. The miners were trapped on Thursday last week and were only rescued on Sunday. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the former military boss said President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is on annual leave, has ordered that a thorough investigation be conducted to establish what transpired. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
On behalf of His Excellency the President who is on a month-long annual break, Government and on my behalf, I deeply applaud the multi-agency teams from both Government and the private sector for a successful rescue operation which saved 15 trapped miners at the Metallon Gold-owned Redwing Mine in Penhalonga, Manicaland Province. Remarkable team-spirit and prompt response and mobilisation of resources by all concerned, including the mining sector, saved the fifteen distressed souls, giving our Nation nothing short of a miracle without any parallel in the world. The situation was dire. Massive tremors collapsed the mine, creating deep cracks around the mine, thus making all rescue efforts hazardous and painstakingly slow. It became a race against time. Happily the operation concluded successfully with all the trapped miners brought to safety. Government is most grateful to the teams involved, and to the 15 trapped miners who kept united and hopeful. Government keenly follows the miners as they currently receive medical attention, including counselling services.
Going forward, His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa who keenly followed the rescue efforts throughout, has directed the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to thoroughly and fully investigate this disaster so Government can draw necessary lessons and adopt appropriate measures A improve safety in the whole mining sector, regardless of ownership and nature of mining activity. Safety of mining workers and artisanal miners remain uppermost. Government is determined A ensure that impressive growth in the mining sector is underpinned by safety standards of the highest order in this strategic sector.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

Chiwenga Applauds Teams That Rescued 15 Miners Trapped At Redwing Mine

Zimbabwe’s deputy minister of Industry and Commerce, Roy Bhila, was recently <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/30/president-mnangagwa-removes-deputy-minister-bhila-from-office/">dismissed from his position</a> over allegations of corruption involving cement import licenses. According to official sources, ministry officials colluded with business traders to charge “facilitation fees” during the licensing process, which proved to be a lucrative scheme. The corrupt activities surrounding these money-spinning permits led to Bhila’s downfall, <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/why-mnangagwa-fired-roy-bhila/">The NewsHawks’ Brenna Matendere</a> reported.
In addition to the corruption allegations, Bhila found himself embroiled in a political controversy. Secret recordings of him surfaced, where he expressed the belief that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s co-deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, was gradually positioning himself as Mnangagwa’s successor. Sources said:
<blockquote>
Bhila was fired for abusing cement import permits and attendant corruption activities associated with that. The issuance of those permits, which are money-spinning instruments, was accompanied by payment of facilitation fees for the personal benefit of the ministry’s officials and those that they work in cahoots with.
Besides corruption, politics also contributed to Bhila’s dismissal. He was recorded telling the grassroots in his constituency in Chiredzi that Mnangagwa is on his way out and Chiwenga is coming in. He was specifically recorded as saying  ‘mudhara haasina basa as power is shifting to Chiwenga and people are now aligning themselves with him.
Chiwenga is the future. This was viewed as an attempt to incite subversion and a revolt against Mnangagwa’s leadership. This is a  manifestation of factionalism, infighting and succession battles. The unresolved leadership question in Zanu PF and government after the coup has not gone away.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa, who is officially 81 but believed to be 85, is reported to have ambitions for a third term and is allegedly manoeuvring to stay in power beyond 2028. However, Chiwenga’s rise is seen by some as a hindrance to Mnangagwa’s plans, as it could prevent any amendment to the constitution that would allow him to extend his term.
The corruption scandal involving cement import licenses only added fuel to the fire. Cement prices had been soaring on the informal market due to a combination of factors, including plant breakdowns and maintenance at major cement producers, as well as the expiration of import licenses. In response to the artificial cement shortage and skyrocketing prices, the cabinet approved the importation of cement by individuals and companies with free funds. This move allowed Zimbabweans to freely import up to five tonnes of cement until December. Cement producers had long argued for import restrictions to protect their industry from cheaper imports, but the government’s decision to limit imports led to corruption and arbitrage.
Bhila had served for only two months when he was fired.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Corruption And Succession Disputes Among Reasons Why Bhila Was Fired - Report

The outspoken lawmaker for Norton, Temba Mliswa, has been accused of contributing to the death of a former senior Central Intelligence Organization (CIO) member, Andrew Chitungo. Mliswa, who was present at Chitungo’s burial on Wednesday, posted a message on Twitter expressing his grief and condolences. However, some of Mliswa’s followers accused him of causing Chitungo’s death by leaking recorded conversations that put Chitungo’s life in danger.
One user accused Mliswa of literally killing Chitungo, while another expressed astonishment at Mliswa’s tweet. Wrote Dr Glen Meda:
<blockquote>
You sold him out Chief. Why were you recording your conversations with him and why did you leak those conversations knowing you were putting his life in grave danger. You literally killed him. Now you are shedding croco tears!
</blockquote>
Chitungo reportedly died on Friday at West End Hospital after being admitted with breathing problems and energy loss. He was removed from President Mnangagwa’s close security team last year after a recorded call with Mliswa and former Energy Minister Fortune Chasi was leaked in which he called Mnangagwa corrupt. 
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/06/06/senior-central-intelligence-organisation-officer-dies/">Andrew Chitungo passed away on Friday last week</a> at West End Hospital after being admitted with breathing problems and energy loss.
He had worked under former President Robert Mugabe, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, and later President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Chitungo was removed from Mnangagwa’s close security team last year after a leaked recorded call with independent Norton MP Temba Mliswa and former Energy Minister Fortune Chasi.
He was also involved in running a security company and had startup business interests in Harare. Chitungo’s family, relatives, and friends described him as a “man of the people”, a “family man”, and a “reliable professional” who was good-natured, calm, and amicable.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Norton MP Temba Mliswa Accused Of Contributing To Former CIO Member's Death

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marry_Chiwenga/">Marry Mubaiwa</a>, the ex-wife of Zimbabwe’s Vice-President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga/">Constantino Chiwenga</a>, has lost <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/04/15/marry-mubaiwa-to-appeal-conviction-for-marriage-fraud/">her appeal</a> against her conviction and sentence for forging a marriage certificate. Mubaiwa reportedly forged Chiwenga’s signature on a marriage certificate to upgrade their customary union.
In April 2022, a Harare magistrate <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/04/14/marry-mubaiwa-sentenced-to-12-months-in-prison-escapes-jail-time/">convicted and fined her $60,000, suspended 12 months of her sentence</a>, and removed the option of community service due to ill health.
High Court judges of appeal Justices Benjamin Chikowero and Pisirai Kwenda dismissed her appeal, stating that the sentence imposed was wholly non-custodial and fell within the range set by Parliament. <a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/news/article/200012469/chiwengas-ex-wife-suffers-setback">The Standard</a> cites them as saying:
<blockquote>
The trial court considered that the circumstances of the case called for the need to reform the appellant as well as to deter her and like-minded persons from committing similar offences.
</blockquote>
The lower court found her guilty of knowingly making a false statement to then judge president George Chiweshe that Chiwenga had agreed to solemnise their marriage, which was not the case.
The court heard that Chief Magistrate now Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi offered himself as the marriage officer and travelled to the venue of the intended marriage to preside over the wedding, only to find that the supposed bride was attending to her husband in South Africa.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Marry Mubaiwa Loses Appeal Against Conviction For Forging Marriage Certificate

Despite promises made by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in 2018 for modern apartments with swimming pools in Mbare, nothing has changed for residents. Chiwenga said then:
<blockquote>
We have a comprehensive master plan for the home industries and the Mbare hostels to the extent that wherever we reconstruct a block of flats, there will be swimming pools for children and kindergartens.
Mbare will be the first place that we are going to develop in Harare, and those that had relocated to Borrowdale and Mt Pleasant will come back to Mbare.
</blockquote>
Mbare, including Matapi Flats, still faces challenges of overcrowding, poor water and sewer systems, uncollected refuse, and old homes.
The government and council blame each other, and rehabilitation work is yet to start four years later. Mbare has suffered from cholera and typhoid outbreaks over the past decade. Recently, two ministers toured the suburb, but swimming pools were not discussed.
Mr Daniel Garwe, the minister of National Housing and Dr Sekai Nzenza, the minister of Industry and Commerce, toured the suburb this week but swimming pools were not on their agenda. Garwe told residents:
<blockquote>
We will destroy these houses and build new ones with proper and working sewer systems. This place has over 3 000 people, but they are using the same toilet. The pipes can no longer service such a populace.
People are being forced to pay sewer bills by the council but no services have been done. The council is also making people pay garbage collection fees but there is litter everywhere.
</blockquote>
Garwe, the Local Government acting Minister, stated that Mbare houses are no longer suitable for living. The ruling ZANU PF promised to construct 1.5 million houses by 2023, but it seems unlikely to be achieved. Garwe suggested last year that the number had been reduced to around 220,000.
Mbare is also a political battleground for opposing political parties.
A 2011 project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to renovate Matapi Flats failed due to opposition from the ZANU PF-linked Chipangano terror group.
Harare mayor, Jacob Mafume, has acknowledged the political challenges in improving the situation in Mbare. He said powerful political blocks can physically block efforts to remodel and renew the area, despite the potential to create an urban renewal program to improve living conditions.
Matapi flats have become drug dens and brothels. Over 200 families are forced to share one toilet and broken communal baths, posing severe health risks. The absence of clean water sources makes the situation worse, and residents rely on unsafe water sources for survival. 
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

No Change For Mbare Residents Despite Chiwenga's 2018 Promises

President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> and his deputy, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a>, or their associates and relatives, allegedly received $3 million from a controversial South African businessman, Zunaid Moti, during the 2017 coup that ousted former President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Mugabe">Robert Mugabe</a>.
Moti has extensive business interests in Zimbabwe and was awarded controversial contracts towards the end of Mugabe’s reign. The information was obtained from <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010832/ed-chiwenga-secret-millions-exposed">confidential papers</a> by The Sentry, a US-based investigative and policy organisation. The papers show that Moti moved up to $130 million into the accounts of 28 companies and four individuals in Zimbabwe from 2017, some of which took place during the coup.
The papers also reveal close ties between Moti and Zimbabwe’s highest-ranking politicians and evidence of dubious multimillion-dollar transactions.
ACF, Moti’s company, had formed a joint venture with the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and hired Mnangagwa’s son as a consultant. Moti’s firms allegedly paid $130 million in 595 instalments to a mix of established firms, companies whose records are missing, and politically-linked entities in Zimbabwe. The Sentry reported:
<blockquote>
In December 2017 and January 2018, the payments included $1 million to Mnangagwa’s farm and $2 million to a company controlled by Chiwengs’s’ investment manager’ and someone reported to be the retired general’s niece.
In a separate commercial transaction in February 2018, ACF also allegedly paid $100 000 to Justice George Chiweshe, as part of a wider deal to mine chrome in concession areas controlled by a firm he chaired.
The timing of the November 17, 2017, deal raises the question of whether there is a connection to the coup,” The Sentry reported.
Following Zimbabwe African National Union—Patriotic Front (Zanu PF) factional infighting throughout the year, Mnangagwa fled Zimbabwe after being fired as Vice-President by President Robert Mugabe on November 6, 2017.
</blockquote>
In November 2017, Constantino Chiwenga, who was the head of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, took control of Harare and persuaded former President Robert Mugabe to step down.
After Mugabe’s resignation, High Court Judge President Chiweshe ruled that the military’s actions were constitutional and annulled the dismissal of Emmerson Mnangagwa, paving the way for him to become president. Mnangagwa later named Chiwenga as his deputy. The military claimed that the coup was to remove criminals surrounding Mugabe, but few were arrested.
Recently, Al Jazeera aired a documentary alleging money laundering and gold smuggling by syndicates linked to Mnangagwa’s family.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Mnangagwa, Chiwenga Received $3 Million From SA Businessman During 2017 Coup - Report

Vice President <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> has urged the nation to be calm in response to the sharp decline of the Zimbabwe dollar compared to the United States dollar (USD).
Speaking at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) International Business Conference in Bulawayo this Wednesday, Chiwenga said the government will continue to pursue measures to maintain exchange rate stability.
<ol>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/rbz-forex-auction-value-of-zimbabwe-dollar-keeps-decreasing/">RBZ Forex Auction: Value Of Zimbabwe Dollar Keeps Decreasing</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/eu-attending-zitf-for-the-1st-time-ever/">EU Attending ZITF For The 1st Time Ever</a></li>
</ol>
He acknowledged the current exchange rate volatility but assured that it was temporary and exchange rate movements were not catastrophic. He said:
<blockquote>
Bold measures are being implemented by Government to foster price and exchange rate stability in the economy.
These measures include tight monetary and fiscal policy, insistence on value for money for Government procurement and effective monetary and surveillance by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
The transitory exchange rate volatility in the parallel market witnessed in the economy for March this year is merely a reflection of the store of value demand for foreign currency.
</blockquote>
Vice President Chiwenga stated that Zimbabwe has been experiencing an increase in foreign currency inflows, with a peak of US$11.6 billion in 2022, up from historic averages of around US$5 billion to US$6 billion per year. He added: 
<blockquote>
So, there is no point in rushing as though the world is coming to an end.
Reflecting this positive development, the country has also been recording current account surpluses since 2019, a critical condition for currency stability.
As such, Government is staying the course of the current monetary and fiscal policy measures which have proved effective in restoring and sustaining price and exchange rate stability.
</blockquote>
According to Vice President Chiwenga, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) is expanding investment options for individuals and corporations with excess Zimbabwe dollar balances.
He added that the Central Bank is planning to introduce “gold-backed digital products” to complement the Mosi-oa-Tunya gold coins currently available. The former military boss said this initiative will allow for the widespread trading of gold coins, expanding the tradable assets in the economy for storage purposes and reducing the speculative demand for foreign currency.
His remarks come as the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/prices-of-basic-commodities-have-significantly-increased-survey/">black market exchange rate</a> for the local currency has moved to between $1 800 and $2 100 to the US dollar, compared to the official rate of $1 021.
The decline of the Zimbabwe dollar has resulted in businesses raising the prices of their commodities as they price their products at double the official market.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Calls For Calm Amid Decline Of Zimbabwe Dollar

Some disgruntled nurses are accusing Vice President <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> of blocking salary and allowance increases in the health sector as punishment for past strikes and demonstrations.
This comes after the government increased salaries for teachers, police officers, the army, and pensioners, with no mention of the health sector.
A letter dated April 4, 2023, stated an increase in cushioning allowances to US$200 and a US$250 COVID-19 allowance, which nurses will not be receiving for unspecified reasons.
These increases were set by the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC), but negotiations for health sector employees who have threatened industrial action since Chiwenga’s appointment as Health Minister have yet to occur. Reads the government memorandum on the salary changes:
<blockquote>
The approved review is as follows; 100% remuneration review to gross ZWL emoluments from Deputy Director and below for all sectors.
Reviewing Cushioning and Covid Allowance from US$200 to US$250 per month across all sectors, excluding health sector, whilst Government Pensioners will be paid US$100 per month in USD Nostro Accounts paid concurrently with ZWL$ salaries. Health Sector shall be paid a USD Allowance of US$200 in the same manner.
Teachers will receive US$80 teaching allowance payable at the prevailing inter-bank rate with effect from 01 April 2023. The Teaching Allowance has replaced the previously introduced School Fees payment facility hence the facility will be discontinued from second term.
Please note that the Transport, Housing, Representation and Special Civil Service Allowances have been consolidated to Administration and In-Service Allowances and is calculated as 30% and 70% of basic salary respectively.”
</blockquote>
A nurse at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, who wished to remain anonymous, said that many nurses believe that Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is punishing them for past strikes and demonstrations demanding better wages, working conditions, and allowances. The source also mentioned unconfirmed rumours of stricter verification for those seeking to leave the country. The nurse told NewZimbabwe:
<blockquote>
The general feeling is that the Health Minister is punishing us.
Remember he once fired some of us, and was a key advocate for government to criminalise industrial action and is on record saying takajayidzwa (we were spoiled).
It does not make sense that all other civil servants would have their salaries and allowances increased and we do not get communication as to what government is thinking about us.
</blockquote>
A doctor at Sally Mugabe Hospital has expressed frustration saying the Zimbabwean government was working tirelessly to demotivate the health sector.
Meanwhile, teachers have <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/civil-servants-reject-100-salary-increment/">dismissed the salary increase</a> they received and are demanding US$1 260 per month to cover their monthly expenses, including rent, medical aid, funeral cover, transportation, food, school fees, and clothing. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Accused Of Blocking Salary Increases

Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> proclaimed that the government would regularise illegal settlements nationwide. The former military boss made the remarks on Saturday while addressing Epworth residents.
He also promised to bury “the incompetent opposition-led councils” which he said were responsible for mushrooming illegal settlements across the country.
Chiwenga said the central government would regularise the illegal settlements to save home seekers from losses they have incurred if they were to be evicted.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/all-epworth-households-to-get-title-deeds-mnangagwa/">All Epworth Households To Get Title Deeds – Mnangagwa</a></li>
</ul>
Some background
In 2021, July Moyo, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works stated that illegal settlements in Zimbabwe would not be regularised or legalized, as they violate the country’s laws and regulations. He emphasized the need for residents to adhere to the country’s planning and development laws, and for local authorities to enforce these laws to prevent the spread of illegal settlements.
The issue of illegal settlements in Zimbabwe is a complex and longstanding problem, with many residents living in informal settlements without access to basic services and infrastructure. The government has implemented various policies and programs to address this issue, including the provision of housing and the regularisation of some informal settlements. However, the issue remains a significant challenge for the country.
Most of the illegal structures were demolished in the past. Owners would lose their homes and belongings as well as the money they used to buy the land.
Safety measures for home-seekers
Buying land in Zimbabwe can be a complex and risky process, especially when dealing with land barons who engage in illegal land sales. Here are some actions you can take to avoid buying illegal land from land barons in Zimbabwe:
<ol>
<li>
Do your research: Before buying any land, conduct thorough research on the land title and ownership to ensure that the person selling the land is the legal owner. You can check the ownership details with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement.
</li>
<li>
Hire a reputable lawyer: A good lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of land transactions in Zimbabwe and ensure that all documents are legally binding and in order. It is essential to hire a reputable lawyer who has experience in dealing with land transactions.
</li>
<li>
Inspect the land: Take the time to visit and inspect the land to ensure that it is suitable for your needs and that the boundaries are clear and legally established. Do not rely solely on the seller’s representations and documentation.
</li>
<li>
Verify the authenticity of the documents: Verify the authenticity of the land documents, including title deeds and survey plans, with the relevant authorities.
</li>
<li>
Avoid cash transactions: Always pay for the land using a bank transfer or cheque, and ensure that the payment is made directly to the seller’s account. Avoid cash transactions as they are difficult to track, and you may not have any legal recourse in case of a dispute.
</li>
<li>
Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true: If the price of the land seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of offers that appear too good to be true, as they may be illegal land sales.
</li>
<li>
Report illegal land sales: If you suspect that the land being sold is illegal, report it to the relevant authorities such as the police, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement or the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
</li>
</ol>
By following these actions, you can minimize the risks associated with buying land in Zimbabwe and avoid falling prey to illegal land sales by land barons.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Government Will Regularise Illegal Settlements - VP Chiwenga

A Presidential Guard nurse has narrated how <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marry_Chiwenga">Marry Mubaiwa</a> allegedly intended to kill Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> in 2019.
The new details came out when the trial of Marry Mubaiwa who is Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga’s estranged wife, commenced yesterday. 
One of the witnesses, Warren Sibanda, a Presidential Guard nurse who accompanied the VP, narrated before Harare magistrate Florence Chakanyuka how Marry Mubaiwa intended to kill Chiwenga: 
<blockquote>
It was on July 31, 2019, when we went to China for further medical attention. While at the airport, there were two aeroplanes and the accused discovered that I was going to China, with the complainant, Major Muringi and Health deputy minister John Mangwiro. She caused a scene at the airport by refusing to board another plane back home.
She was shouting at us and the argument was quelled by the South African Police Services after being delayed by two hours.
</blockquote>
He said on July 22, 2019, Chiwenga fell ill and an arrangement was made to airlift him to South Africa. Mangwiro was leading the team and overseeing everything. Sibanda added:
<blockquote>
We were supposed to leave by 1830pm. We went to the airport and we noted there were two aeroplanes. We went into the same plane. We then went and arrived at Lanseria Airport in South Africa and I was given an order by Mangwiro to go straight to the hospital. The accused was directing us and we then found ourselves at the basement of Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria. I thought maybe we were at the hospital.
</blockquote>
Mangwiro then told him that Mubaiwa, a former model, was directing the arrangements.
She allegedly told them that the rooms at the hotel were already booked. Sibanda added:
<blockquote>
When the accused person got out of the room and went to the next room where her child was sleeping, the complainant called me asking why we booked him in a hotel room than to proceed to the hospital for his medication.
</blockquote>
Sibanda said he told Mangwiro about the issue, and the next day, Chiwenga was taken by force to the hospital. 
He said when they went to the hospital Chiwenga was put on IV fluids and they continued putting them and gave him paracetamol only.
Sibanda said after Chiwenga was assessed, he was referred to NetCare Hospital and placed in the intensive care unit. 
He further alleged that when they took Chiwenga to the hospital, Marry Mubaiwa was shouting at everyone present. 
Sibanda added that on the following day, a pipe was put inside Chiwenga’s rib cage to drain water from the lungs.
Sibanda said the next day, Mubaiwa arrived at the hospital saying she would bring a doctor called Bruce.
She reportedly went to the hospital at odd times and ordered security staff to go out.
On July 8, 2019, Sibanda said he asked security to bathe Chiwenga and wash his clothes.
Mubaiwa arrived with her doctor and they left.
<blockquote>
On opening the door, I saw droplets of blood on the floor and some blood on his T-shirt. I asked the security staff and they told me that the complainant (Chiwenga) was about to leave the room, (but) then returned to his bed.
</blockquote>
Chakanyuka postponed the trial for cross-examination of the witness to March 13.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Presidential Guard Nurse Narrates How Marry Mubaiwa Intended To Kill Chiwenga

The move to reverse the<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-announces-new-acting-general-manager/"> appointment of</a> <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-announces-new-acting-general-manager/">Agnes Masiiwa</a> as the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a>‘s acting general manager was reportedly ordered by Acting President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a>.
NSSA general manager Arthur Manase was suspended in July 2022 and senior executives were supposed to be appointed on a rotational basis to fill the position in an acting capacity.
NSSA director for occupational health Charles Shava was the first to be appointed acting general manager and he was supposed to pass the button to Masiiwa following his appointment by the NSSA board.
On December 29, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare minister Paul Mavima wrote to NSSA board chairperson Percy Toriro recommending Masiiwa to replace Shava. Mavima wrote:
<blockquote>
I write to advise that it is time to rotate the acting general manager at NSSA. Shava has served in that position for six months,” Mavima wrote.
It’s therefore, prudent to find another senior executive to hold that position while the forensic audit is being implemented.
Previously, Masiiwa had been recommended together with Shava. I therefore recommend her appointment at this time.
</blockquote>
In a follow-up notice to stakeholders, Toriro indicated that Masiiwa would assume the position from 1st January 2023. She is one of the Directors at NSSA.
However, in a letter addressed to Mavima the deputy chief secretary for policy analysis, coordination and development planning in the Office of the President, Willard Manungo, said Chiwenga had ordered the reversal of Masiiwa’s appointment.
According to <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/local-news/article/200006184/chiwenga-blocks-nssa-boss-appointment">The Standard</a>, Chiwenga argued that the appointment was a serious violation of corporate governance rules. Read the letter dated 3 January 2023:
<blockquote>
Pursuant to good corporate governance, the honourable acting president advises that nothing should be done to remove the NSSA acting general manager in the midst of the forensic audit processes currently underway.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-reverses-appointment-of-agnes-masiiwa-as-acting-general-manager/">Reversal of the Appointment:</a>
NSSA then released another public notice revoking the notice signed by board chairman Percy Toriro which confirmed the appointment of Masiiwa. 
The notice said NSSA had been advised that the timing may not be right since the audit process is not yet complete. It also stated that the authority had been advised to let Sgava continue in the position.
But there is discontent over the move, according to insiders at NSSA who suspected the hand of Manungo.
Some said there was no evidence to suggest that Chiwenga, who is quoted in the letter was even consulted to veto Mavima’s proposal with the laws clear that in the absence of a substantive chief executive any other senior member can be appointed in an acting capacity.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"VP Chiwenga Ordered The Reversal Of Masiiwa's Appointment As NSSA General Manager"

Acting President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> has said iron and lithium will be pivotal for Zimbabwe’s economic growth just as oil is to Saudi Arabia.
Chiwenga who doubles as the Minister of Health and Child Care made the remarks while addressing a Family of God (FOG) 2022/23 national thanksgiving and dedication prayer in Bulawayo on Thursday, NewsDay reported. He is cited as saying: 
<blockquote>
Fear not for the Lord Almighty is with you. Zimbabwe will not die or collapse. Those who want this God-given country to fold will be punished threefold. Yes, it has been painful to our people, but that’s the price we have to pay.
And so, we shall build our nation with the resources which we were given by the Almighty God.  We are faced by unjust and illegal sanctions. We have embarked in the work of re-engaging with hostile regimes, which have imposed illegal sanctions which are meant to cripple us. As we work hard on the frontier of engagement and re-engagement, we can say we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, with our sister African nations assisting us. Iron and lithium will be pivotal in the growth and development of the country. Just as oil is to Saudi Arabia, so is lithium to Zimbabwe. So, we will not die.
</blockquote>
His remarks come as the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabwe-bans-export-of-raw-lithium/">government banned exports of raw lithium</a> last week in an effort to value-add Zimbabwe’s minerals and support local production and employment creation.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabwe-bans-export-of-raw-lithium/">Zimbabwe Bans Export Of Raw Lithium</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/police-intercept-trucks-with-lithium-ore/">Police Intercept Trucks Loaded With Lithium Ore</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/two-men-arrested-while-trying-to-smuggle-40-tonnes-of-lithium-ore-to-south-africa/">Two Men Arrested While Trying To Smuggle 40 Tonnes Of Lithium Ore To South Africa</a></li>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabwe-scheduled-to-commission-africas-biggest-steel-plant/">Zimbabwe Scheduled To Commission Africa’s Biggest Steel Plant</a></li>
</ul>
The ban was effected through Statutory Instrument (SI) 213 of 2022 titled Base Mineral Export Control (Unbeneficiated Lithium Bearing Ores) Order, 2022.
Lithium is becoming increasingly important as the world shifts towards clean energy systems.
Zimbabwe has abundant deposits of lithium and, with rising global demand and firmer prices, it has become an attractive destination for investment in this resource. 
In June this year, the minister of Mines and Mining Development, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Winston_Chitando">Winston Chitando</a> said Zimbabwe is on course to achieve the US$12 billion mining industry target by 2023.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s 2022 surplus from oil sales came to 102 billion riyals (US$27 billion), according to the kingdom’s finance ministry’s preliminary estimates.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Just As Oil Is To Saudi Arabia, So Is Lithium And Iron To Zimbabwe" - Chiwenga

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has commenced his annual leave and is scheduled to come back to work at the end of January.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga who doubles as the Minister of Health and Child Care will be acting for the entire period the president will be on leave, ZBC News reported citing Acting Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Mr George Charamba. He is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Just to inform the nation that His Excellency, President Mnangagwa started his by annual leave yesterday the 23rd of December which will run until the end of January, he has no intention of leaving the country he will spend his entire leave in the country, most probably between the capital and his farm. You know he’s a big farmer, he is behind the agriculture transformation that he has always called for, and he decided to lead by example. And my hunch is that he will be tending to his crops as well as his animals. Vice President Chiwenga will be the Acting President for the entire period the President is on leave.
</blockquote>
The president traditionally takes his annual leave in January. 
Unlike his predecessor, the late Robert Mugabe who would fly to the Far East during his annual vacations, Mnangagwa has previously spent month-long vacations in the country.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

President Mnangagwa Commences Annual Leave, VP Chiwenga Acting

President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga will take home ZW$ 69.2 million as their combined basic annual salaries in 2023.
Mnangagwa and Chiwenga will earn ZW$ 5.8 million each as monthly salaries, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004281/ed-chiwenga-to-take-home-70m-in-salaries">NewsDay</a> reported citing the latest proposed estimates of expenditure (Bluebook). The wages are equivalent to US$8 964 at the prevailing official rate.
In terms of section 102(1) and (2) of Chapter 5, as read with the Sixth Schedule, part 4(20) of the Constitution, which deals with the remuneration of Presidents and Vice-Presidents, their salaries must be charged upon and paid out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
On Thursday last week, Finance and Economic Development minister Mthui Ncube presented the 2023 budget in which he allocated $161.7 billion to the Office of the President and Cabinet $114 billion of which will be spent by the Presidency, while $2.7 billion will go towards fuel, oil and lubricant expenses.
This comes as public sector workers have since 2019 been embarking on periodic industrial action demanding the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
The government says it does not have the capacity to pay them all that much. They currently earn an average of US$200.
Meanwhile, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, reportedly earns an annual salary of US$223 500 while he gets US$18 625 every month. 
President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana reportedly earns P892 540 (US$68 613.21) per annum and P74 378.33 (US$5 717.77) per month. 
The president of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema reportedly earns K36 000 (US$2 098.57) per month. 
These salaries exclude other benefits and allowances.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

2023 Budget: President Mnangagwa, VP Chiwenga Will Take Home ZW$ 69.2 million

President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga will take home ZW$ 69.2 million as their combined basic annual salaries in 2023.
Mnangagwa and Chiwenga will earn ZW$ 5.8 million each as monthly salaries, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004281/ed-chiwenga-to-take-home-70m-in-salaries">NewsDay</a> reported citing the latest proposed estimates of expenditure (Bluebook). The wages are equivalent to US$8 964 at the prevailing official rate.
In terms of section 102(1) and (2) of Chapter 5, as read with the Sixth Schedule, part 4(20) of the Constitution, which deals with the remuneration of Presidents and Vice-Presidents, their salaries must be charged upon and paid out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
On Thursday last week, Finance and Economic Development minister Mthui Ncube presented the 2023 budget in which he allocated $161.7 billion to the Office of the President and Cabinet $114 billion of which will be spent by the Presidency, while $2.7 billion will go towards fuel, oil and lubricant expenses.
This comes as public sector workers have since 2019 been embarking on periodic industrial action demanding the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
The government says it does not have the capacity to pay them all that much. They currently earn an average of US$200.
Meanwhile, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, reportedly earns an annual salary of US$223 500 while he gets US$18 625 every month. 
President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana reportedly earns P892 540 (US$68 613.21) per annum and P74 378.33 (US$5 717.77) per month. 
The president of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema reportedly earns K36 000 (US$2 098.57) per month. 
These salaries exclude other benefits and allowances.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> has said stiffer penalties will be introduced against child rights abusers amid a rise in cases of under 10-year-olds getting pregnant. 
Chiwenga who doubles as the minister of Health and Child Care made the remarks while speaking at a belated World Children’s Day commemoration in Harare Monday where he was the guest of honour.
His remarks come when two separate cases of nine-year-old minors who were sexually violated and impregnated are yet to be finalised.
Chiwenga said the government is worried about children’s well-being and was coming up with tougher measures against child abusers. He said in an address aired on national television:
<blockquote>
The government is deeply concerned with the sad cases of under-10 getting pregnant.
Stiffer penalties will be introduced and will have to be done not only to the perpetrators but I think also as parents, we have a responsibility to look after our children.
It does not matter what people can say. The child is somebody who has not yet reached 18 years, there is no issue of peer pressure or consent, up until one turns 18…I am happy parliament passed that.
We are ramping up programmes to ensure that the victims are rehabilitated. It is now imperative that the perpetrators are dealt with in terms of the law of the land.
</blockquote>
Chiwenga’s remarks come as he is embroiled in a legal battle with his ex-wife <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marry_Chiwenga">Marry Mubaiwa</a> over custody of the couple’s three minor children whom he has kept away from their mother for over three years.
Mubaiwa claims since she was forced out of the couple’s matrimonial home, she has not seen her children except in pictures often shared via social media.
Chiwenga secured a court order which claims Mubaiwa is mentally and physically unstable to be with her children.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Says Stiffer Penalties Will Be Introduced For Child Abusers

The High Court has struck off the roll a property dispute case involving Vice President Constantino Chiwenga (the applicant) and his estranged wife Marry Mubaiwa (the defendant).
High Court judge Justice Owen Tagu removed the case from the roll after noting that the matter was not moving due to several postponements and the non-availability of the defendant and the applicant.  
Justice Tagu also said he could not keep holding the record when the case was not progressing, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200003732/vp-ex-wife-case-struck-off-roll">NewsDay</a> reported. He said: 
<blockquote>
I could not, therefore, keep on holding onto the file…
The only way to go about this problem is to remove the matter from the roll and parties be given guidelines.
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/11/14/list-of-farms-properties-vp-chiwenga-owns/">List Of Farms, Properties VP Chiwenga Owns</a></li>
</ul>
He also ordered that the registrar be directed to set the matter down for hearing on any available date after new pleadings have been made.
This basically means that the case was removed from the court roll and that the judge will not consider it or hear the argument on the initially set date. The applicant will have to place it on the roll on another date. 
Previously, Mubaiwa’s lawyer, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beatrice_Mtetwa">Beatrice Mutetwa</a> asked for permission to file heads of argument to include the interests of the couple’s children. This was objected to by Chiwenga’s lawyer Lewis Uriri said that the rights of children were catered for by their guardians, according to the country’s constitution.  
Since 2019, Chiwenga, a former military commander and Marry, a former model, have been embroiled in a nasty divorce. 
The courts eventually granted the divorce but the courts are yet to determine how the duo will share property. 
In 2020, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/25/marry-demands-3-five-star-holidays-per-year-and-over-us40000-holiday-spending-money-as-part-of-her-divorce-settlement-demands-from-chiwenga/">Marry made the following demands</a> as a condition for divorce:
<blockquote>
<ol>
<li>An equivalent of US$2 500 for each child,</li>
<li>Payment of their entire school fees and all university costs should they proceed to tertiary level.</li>
<li>One international holiday per year at a five-star facility, the equivalence of US$25 000 spending money on the international holiday ,</li>
<li>One fully-expensed regional holiday and US$15 000 spending money</li>
<li>One fully-paid local holiday per annum and not less than US$25 000 per person</li>
<li>An equivalent of US$40 000 a month for her own personal maintenance per month</li>
<li>Internationally-recognised medical aid cover until her death.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/11/13/chiwenga-marry-battle-for-property-far-from-over/">Chiwenga reportedly offered to deliver</a> to Marry, among other assets:
<blockquote>
1). king l-size bed, 
2). leather sofas, 
3). carpets, 
4). a refrigerator, 
5). chest of drawers, 
6). a television set, 
7). mirrors and tables from the main bedroom, 
8). glasses, 
9). cutlery, 
10). pots, 
11). trays, 
12). a washing machine and other utensils.
13). vehicles including 
i). two Range Rovers, 
ii). two Ford Rangers, 
iii). a Chevrolet, 
iv). a Jeep, 
v). a Mercedes-Benz C200, 
vi). Mercedes Benz E300 and 
vii). a Kia Rio.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

High Court Removes Marry And VP Chiwenga's Case From Roll

Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> who doubles as the Minister of Health and Child Care has sent a condolence message to the Manyonda family following the death of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kenneth_Vhundukai_Manyonda">Kenneth Vhundukai Manyonda</a> on 9 November 2022. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Chiwenga said the national hero contributed substantially to national development in his various capacities including that of Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce as well as Governor of Manicaland Province. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>CONDOLENCE MESSAGE BY THE VICE PRESIDENT OF ZIMBABWE AND MINISTER OF HEALTH AND CHILD CARE HONOURABLE GENERAL (RETIRED) DR. C. G. D. N. CHIWENGA, FOLLOWING THE PASSING ON OF CDE KENNETH MANYONDA</h2>
It was with a deep sense of shock and grief that I learnt of the untimely passing on of Cde Kenneth Manyonda, on Wednesday, 9 November 2022. My last interactions with him had given me a deceptive impression that he was on the mend, and ready to get to his feet. Alas, that was not to be. 
I knew the late Cde Manyonda as a vibrant nationalist, whose involvement in Trade Unionism and Black Consciousness movements in the 1950s and 1960s was a source of inspiration for the oppressed youths of our country. It was the boldness of Cde Manyonda and his colleagues which added depth to Nationalism in our country. He was also active during the days of the National Democratic Party, which birthed the fighting spirit of the revolutionary parties against the oppressive colonial regime up to the time of its capitulation, leading to the attainment of our independence in 1980. Post-independence, Cde Manyonda remained steadfast, focused and determined to give his best for the good of our Party, ZANU PF and beloved country, Zimbabwe. Notably, he contributed substantially to national development as Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce as well as Governor of Manicaland Province. Cde Manyonda always exuded an unwavering desire to preserve our cultural beliefs, values and mores as a people. He was an embodiment of the Hunhu/Ubuntu spirit. The country benefited from his wisdom as he continued with national duty as a Chief in Buhera.
As we mourn Cde Manyonda, I wish to extend heartfelt condolences to the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, His Excellency Cde Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, the citizen, exemplary father and great statesman, who dedicated his life to serving his country.
May his dear soul rest in eternal peace. 
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

FULL TEXT: VP Chiwenga Consoles Manyonda Family

President Emmerson Mnangagwa Saturday reappointed Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> and former VP <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kembo_Mohadi">Kembo Mohadi</a> as the Second Secretaries of the ruling ZANU PF party.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Oppah_Muchinguri">Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri</a> was also <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/president-mnangagwa-appoints-new-central-committee-and-politburo-members/">reappointed</a> as National Chairperson, completing the party’s four-member Presidium.
<h2>The President <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/president-mnangagwa-appoints-new-central-committee-and-politburo-members/">reappointed</a> four other Politburo members:</h2>
<blockquote>
i). <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Mpofu">Obert Mpofu</a> (Secretary for Administration), 
ii). <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Patrick_Chinamasa">Patrick Chinamasa</a> (Secretary for Finance), 
iii). <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mike_Bimha">Mike Bimha</a> (National Political Commissar) and 
iv). <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Lovemore_Matuke">Lovemore Matuke</a> (Secretary for Security).
</blockquote>
The appointments were made on the last day of the party’s 7th National People’s Congress which ran from 26 – 29 October 2022.
He, however, indicated that further appointments will be made once the current restructuring process of the Politburo has been completed.
President Mnangagwa also appointed Central Committee members. These are:
<blockquote>
1). Manicaland – Wilson Khumbula (former ZANU Ndonga)
2). Mash Central – Angelina Tongogara
3). Bulawayo – Zenzo Nsimbi
4). Mash East – Michael Madanha
5). Mash West – Joseph Madziva Chirongoma
6). Midlands – Emmanuel Fundira
7). Mat North – Veronica Munkili
8). Harare – <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Miriam_Chikukwa">Miriam Chikukwa</a>
9). Masvingo – <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mangwana">Paul Mangwana</a>
10). Mat South – Abednico Ncube
</blockquote>
<h2>He also announced two other leaders of the main wings:</h2>
<blockquote>
a). Head of Women’s League – <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mabel_Chinomona">Mabel Chinomona</a>
b). War Veterans League – <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Douglas_Mahiya">Douglas Mahiya</a>
</blockquote>
Consultations to appoint Secretary for the Youth League are still ongoing.
President Mnangagwa was nominated as the party’s sole candidate for the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

UPDATE: President Mnangagwa Reappoints Chiwenga And Mohadi

Traditional leaders reportedly blocked efforts by a government official to use a “less problematic” name for the 1980s massacres in Matabeleland and Midlands Provinces commonly referred to as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gukurahundi">Gukurahundi.</a>
The suggestion was made at the Bulawayo State House handover of a chiefs’ manual on handling the matter, according to Chief Khulumani Mathema of Gwanda.
Mathema made the claims while addressing delegates at the launch of the Centre for Innovation and Technology’s (CITE) “We Will Crush Them,” a documentary on the massacres that claimed some 20 000 mainly Ndebele-speaking people in the southern part of Zimbabwe.
Mathema said a name which he was not at liberty to reveal, was even suggested to replace Gukurahundi. He is quoted by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chiefs-resist-renaming-of-gukurahundi-as-debate-on-mugabe-led-80s-genocide-escalates/">NewZimbabwe</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
There was a situation we had in the meeting, we were told to change the name Gukurahundi.
It was supposed to be given another name. As Matabeleland chiefs we rejected it.
Someone provided another name; this divided the house and the rest of us Chiefs rejected that. It is still Gukurahundi.
</blockquote>
<h2>Some Context:</h2>
In the aftermath of Independence, the late former President Robert Mugabe deployed the North Korean-trained 5th brigade into Midlands and Matabeleland “to deal” with “ZAPU dissidents”.
Approximately 20 000 people were killed in the process.
President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> was the Minister of State Security, his deputy <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> was a commander at Bulawayo’s 1 Brigade while the late national hero <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Perrance_Shiri">Perrance Shiri</a> was the commander of the 5th brigade during the period.
Mnangagwa’s new dispensation has considerably opened up space for discussion on the matter, but, the issue is still delicate.
Victims have been demanding compensation and State security agents sometimes harass those doing so while some pressure groups and academics have accused Mnangagwa of being insincere in his approach.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Traditional Leaders Block Efforts To Rename Gukurahundi

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has said President Emmerson Mnangagwa deserves another opportunity to lead the ruling ZANU PF and Zimbabwe at large.
Chiwenga who doubles as the minister of Health and Child Care made the remarks at the ZANU PF elective congress, which kicked off in Harare on Wednesday 26 October 2022 and ends today 29 October 2022. He is quoted by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002726/zanu-pf-congress-grounds-govt-business">NewsDay</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
He (Mnangagwa) is the only leader we know. He deserves another opportunity to lead us. He has everything needed to lead us. We wish many more years for our leader and that God grants him more wisdom. His works have surpassed our expectations.
</blockquote>
Chiwenga’s remarks came when there have been speculative reports that he was angling to challenge Mnangagwa at the congress.
Reports also suggested that Chiwenga, a former military commander, was behind Sybeth Musengezi’s court case in which the former party youth member is challenging Mnangagwa’s ascendancy to the ZANU PF leadership in 2017.
Musengezi approached the High Court claiming that Mnangagwa’s ascension to power was unprocedural.
Meanwhile, Mnangagwa told the congress that ZANU PF’s campaign machinery was now ready to roll with all “election materials and resources in place to mount a roaring campaign for a thunderous victory of our party.”
He added that “the people’s revolution is ongoing and unstoppable.” 
Mnangagwa has been endorsed as Zanu PF’s sole presidential candidate.
He will likely square off with opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa, whom he narrowly beat in the 2018 disputed elections.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Says President Mnangagwa "Deserves Another Opportunity To Lead Us"

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga who doubles as the Health Minister has sent condolences to the Mnangagwa family following the death on Sunday of Yasha Mafidi Mnangagwa, a five-year-old grandson of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. 
Yasha who was Sean Mnangagwa’s son is said to have died of pneumonia at a local hospital where he was being treated for respiratory complications after food went through the wrong pipe.
In a statement seen by Pindula News, Chiwenga, a former army general, said: 
<blockquote>
<h2>CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON THE PASSING ON OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT’S GRANDSON, YASHA MAFIDHI MNANGAGWA</h2>
Your Excellency, it is with a heavy heart that my family and I join the First Family in mourning the untimely passing on of your grandson Yasha Mafidhi Mnangagwa, son to Sean Tafadzwa and wife Varaidzo Faustina, on Sunday, 23’d October 2022. We are conscious of the sorrowfulness that such a tragic occurrence causes to the family and wish to console you during this trying time.
May you accept, Your Excellency, our condolences and deepest sympathy taking solace that it is the Almighty Lord who has done his bidding. May you be comforted by God’s word in Romans 14:8 that “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord’. May God’s love bring you strength and hope.
</blockquote>
Yasha was laid to rest this Tuesday in Bikita next to his forefather Mafidi.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Sends Condolences To President Mnangagwa

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marry_Mubaiwa">Marry Mubaiwa</a>, the estranged wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, on Monday told a Harare court she was still unable to stand trial in a case where she is accused of money laundering.
Mubaiwa appeared before Harare Magistrate Taurai Manuwere for the first time following the amputation of her right arm.
The former model said it was unfair to be kept on remand, considering her condition, and the fact the State repeatedly gives excuses to justify the delay of her prosecution.
Through her lawyer, Ryan Sitototombe from Mtetwa and Nyambirai Legal Practitioners, Mubaiwa complained that the State had been repeating the same story since 2020. Sitotombe argued:
<blockquote>
The state was already on notice and l don’t know how many times the accused should appear in court for her to qualify to be removed from remand. This is a brazen violation of the accused person’s right.
The accused person has a right to a fair trial, which includes the right to be tried within a reasonable time in an independent court. The charges are from 2019 and the investigating officer said the investigations will be complete sometime in 2020, but now three years after there is still no trial date. 
</blockquote>
Sitotombe said the State is obliged by the Constitution to respect the right and freedom of the accused person. 
The lawyer suggested that the State must only summon Mubaiwa when it is ready for trial.
Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti asked for a postponement telling the court that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) was yet to go through the evidence in the form of a disk from a South African bank.
He said they were still waiting for a password to open the flash disk, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/vp-chiwenga-ex-wife-marry-makes-first-court-appearance-after-amputation-challenges-further-remand/">NewZimbabwe</a> quoted him as saying.
The magistrate is expected to hand down his ruling on the request by Mubaiwa on October 28.
The VP’s ex-wife is also charged with attempted murder and assault.
Prosecutors allege she tried to kill the former army general when he was critically ill and hospitalised in South Africa.
In another matter, it is alleged that Mubaiwa assaulted her former childminder, Delight Munyoro in 2020.
Both cases are still to be finalised.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Marry Mubaiwa Says She Is Still Unable To Stand Trial

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has criticised the police for being slow in investigating politically-motivated threats and violence against its supporters by ruling ZANU-PF members.
Party spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere, Monday demanded that police investigate and act on rising cases, including comments by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga that the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/chiwenga-threatens-to-crush-ccc-when-time-is-ripe/">opposition will be crushed like lice.</a>
Her statements came after violent scenes in Matobo’s Ward 6 and Insiza where party members were allegedly waylaid and attacked by ZANU PF youths. Mahere said on Twitter:
<blockquote>
We call for a police investigation into the violence that took place and for the perpetrators to brought to book. We have made a police report and we expect it to be taken seriously.
Numerous incidents of violence where known Zanu-PF perpetrators have not been brought to book.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Abton_Mashayanyika">Abton Mashayanyika</a> was caught on video saying, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/im-too-zanu-pf-to-be-arrested-chamisa-death-threat-bishop-defiant/">Chamisa must be killed</a>, everyone knows of the top Zanu-PF official who called for the CCC to be crushed like lice.
Police have a constitutional duty to investigate crime and secure lives and property of citizens.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in July said it was investigating the viral video inciting the killing of CCC leader Nelson Chamisa and his children that was filmed during a ZANU PF rally.
Meanwhile, the CCC party has since written to SADC on all the political violence that has been perpetrated by ZANU PF,  according to Mahere.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

CCC Criticises Police For Being Slow In Investigating Politically-motivated Violence

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has said it is investigating the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sybeth-musengezis-house-petrol-bombed/">alleged bombing</a> of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sybeth_Musengezi">Sybeth Musengezi</a>‘s home.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sybeth_Musengezi">Sybeth Musengezi</a> who is challenging President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a>’s legitimacy claimed on October 1, 2022, that his Harare house had been set on fire.
He posted pictures of his burning property on social media saying his neighbours managed to extinguish the fire. Said Musengezi in posts seen by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
410 sandton on fire my house petrol bombed help please. Help please petrol bombing at my house in sandton.
This is what they have done. Thanks to the neighbourhood vadzodzima moyo nema buckets.
We managed to get out.
</blockquote>
ZRP later confirmed receiving a report about the incident. Said the police:
<blockquote>
The ZRP has received a report from Sybeth Musengezi concerning an alleged incident at his home and is now conducting investigations.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Musengezi is expected in court this Monday, 03 October 2022 for the continuation of the case in which he is challenging the legitimacy of President Mnangagwa.
He claims that Mnangagwa’s ascendancy to power in 2017, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/21/mugabe-resigns/">following the ouster</a> of former leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Mugabe">Robert Mugabe</a>, was unconstitutional therefore must be nullified by the courts.
Musengezi also wants an order barring Mnangagwa from calling and or presiding over a ZANU PF elective Congress set for this month.
His critics say he is being sent by Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> who is allegedly working with the remnants of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/G40_(Zanu-PF_Faction)">G40 cabal</a> in a bid to dislodge Mnangagwa from power.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Police Investigating Alleged Bombing Of Sybeth Musengezi's Home

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga Friday last week met with medical practitioners and promised them that he will address their grievances. 
Chiwenga who doubles as the Minister of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), held a question and answer session at the launch of the National Surgical Obstetrics and Anaesthesia Strategy 2022-2025 in Victoria Falls.
They spoke about brain drain, salaries, houses and cars as well as the condition of service. <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/government-medical-professionals-engage/">ZBC News</a> cites Chiwenga as saying:
<blockquote>
We have now started to discuss issues and I think a lot of progress has been achieved and more is going to come.
</blockquote>
Kudzai Kanyepi, a surgeon said the government should work on retaining medical practitioners it would have educated. Said Kanyepa:
<blockquote>
Many of us want to come home, we are second-class citizens everywhere else except at home. There is only one home. We want to come home, but we want a soft landing. Many of us left and had to sell everything we had to fund our training, so, now we are starting again from nothing.
</blockquote>
In response, Chiwenga said those who would want to invest should approach relevant authorities for assistance. 
He also said the government had granted duty-free importation of vehicles and medical equipment adding:
<blockquote>
Just bring your papers to the Secretary because we want you to make this nation healthier.
</blockquote>
Responding to Wilfred Muteweye, a surgeon who had pleaded with the minister on behalf of junior doctors to be provided with free accommodation, Chiwenga said that was the government’s plan.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

VP Chiwenga Promises Medical Practitioners He Will Address Their Grievances

Catholic Diocese of Chinhoyi cleric, Bishop Raymond Mpandasekwa, has criticised the government over several issues including its “terrible proposition to turn our civilian doctors into soldiers” saying the state will be left without doctors.
The clergyman has in previous years clashed with the government over his hard stance against alleged misrule which he said was characterised by violence, injustice, corruption, and bloodshed.
In an audio recording of his recent Sunday sermon posted on Facebook, Mpandasekwa laments the wanton killing of members of the opposition and attempts to <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/10/10/zim-army-recruiting-doctors-pharmacists-radiographers/">militarise the medical profession.</a> Mpandasekwa said:
<blockquote>
They bring bloodshed, they kill, instead of freedom they bring imprisonment to those who oppose them, those who think differently, to those who disagree with their policies.
The only thing they know is violence. These people bring bloodshed, that lacking in integrity, they are dishonest.
All they bring is nothing but distress … what greater distress was brought upon us when the plight of our doctors was, a few days ago, responded to by a terrible proposition to turn our civilian doctors into soldiers, who will from then on go by instruction.”
Indeed, the freedom party refuses to give freedom of choice by refusing to listen to the cries of the distressed doctors.
Instead, they propose more distress. We are now heading to become a State with no doctors as this unconstitutional proposition is a destruction of the medical practice as we know it.
Through our policies, our situation will not only get worse, the poor are always the victims.
When bishops question the capacity and emotional stability of the government, we are accused of insulting the Office of the President.
The governed are being insulted everyday by the same people, through their careless utterances and disregard for the Constitution.
Living for justice is dangerous, for we live in a country that refuses to deliver justice. Our children are not going to school, except a few lucky ones.
</blockquote>
He added that the sick were not being treated in hospitals due to the government’s bad policies. 
Mpandasekwa added that the ruling ZANU PF instils fear in the public through state institutions such as the police, the army and the judiciary.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Catholic Bishop Criticises Govt's "Terrible Proposition To Turn Civilian Doctors Into Soldiers"

President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> has reportedly ordered his  <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_African_National_Union_-_Patriotic_Front">ZANU PF</a> party to fast-track internal constitutional amendments to enable him to plot the succession roadmap in consultation with the proposed council of elders.
Insiders told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200001102/ed-plots-succession-roadmap">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a> that the amendments, which are scheduled to be tabled at the party congress set for next month, would enable Mnangagwa to step down as State President after serving his two five-year terms and continue as party president.
ZANU PF secretary for legal affairs <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mangwana">Paul Mangwana</a> told NewsDay Monday 26 September 2022 that the council of elders would comprise ZANU PF old guard retired from government and deployed to the party to serve as advisers to the State President. Without giving specific timelines, Mangwana said:
<blockquote>
We have a council of elders made up of former Presidents and other senior members and their duty is to advise the President and settle disputes, especially among senior members.
We have created the council of elders and it will be appointed this year.
</blockquote>
Mangwana dismissed the claims that Mnangagwa wants to amend the ZANU PF constitution to allow him to remain the leader of the party after his two maximum terms in office as State President expire, saying that would be unconstitutional.
He said the ZNU PF constitution is in harmony with the national Constitution. Mangwana added that whereas the ZANU PF party constitution has no term limits, it says whoever is party president becomes the party’s presidential candidate for national elections.
Mangwana also dismissed speculation that the presidential candidate as well as his deputies would be handpicked by the party leadership.
Mnangagwa announced in 2019 that the ruling party would establish a war veterans league and a council of elders to restore unity and discipline in the party.
<h2>Succession issue:</h2>
The issue of succession was topical in ZANU PF during the last years of former President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Mugabe">Robert Mugabe</a> who refused to name a successor allegedly as a way to cling to power.
It is resurfacing amid reports of factional fights in the ruling party with Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> allegedly leading a faction that intends to succeed Mnangagwa or take power by all means if need be.
So far, Mnangagwa has indicated his intentions to <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/14/watch-ill-still-be-here-in-2030-emmerson-mnangagwa/">hold on to power to at least 2030</a>. Zimbabwe goes to the polls in 2023. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Mnangagwa Pushing To Come Up With A Succession Plan

National Patriotic Front (NPF) party spokesperson, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jealousy_Mawarire">Jealousy Mawarire</a> has said President Emmerson Mnangagwa is not in power because the people “who installed him” still want him there.
Mawarire, a journalist and the executive director and founding trustee for the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Centre_for_Elections_and_Democracy_in_Southern_Africa_(CEDSA)">Centre for Elections and Democracy in Southern Africa (CEDSA)</a> says the “kingmakers” may opt for Chiwenga, “nothing will stop them.”
He was responding to a Twitter post by one Jonathan Chirandu who had said, “With both Mnangagwa &amp; his guardian Chiwenga having badly failed the leadership test, can we not say that a Chiwenga presidency is all but dead?”
In response, Mawarire said Mnangagwa was not elected based on competency. He said:
<blockquote>
Was ED elected on the basis of ability that he can be judged to have failed? As long as those who installed him still want him there, he will stay &amp; if they want Chiwenga instead, nothing will stop them, failure is the least of their concerns.
</blockquote>
His remarks come as Zimbabwe is gearing for the 2023 harmonised elections amid concern that they might be disputed as violence is escalating.
There have been reports that security chefs have a stake in the ruling ZANU PF and government and have been pulling strings to determine the country’s leadership.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Mawarire Says ED Is Staying "As Long As Those Who Installed Him Still Want Him There"

A picture circulating on social media suggests that the right hand of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marry_Chiwenga">Marry Mubaiwa</a>, the estranged wife of Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> was amputated.
The picture was posted by law expert, Advocate <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thabani_Mpofu">Thabani Mpofu</a> this Monday. He captioned it:
<blockquote>
Search your judicial conscience. Did you do right by this child, a child made in the image of God? This blight, this moral stain, can never be washed away. Never, ever! Let me withhold my curse, for I also am a man of sin. Asi kozowa rinhi Tenzi?
Ichi chazonyatsondisvikira panorwadza pangu. Haaaaaaa. Aiwa. Ngidabukile
</blockquote>
Marry, a former model is battling lymphedema, a condition that has also left her lower limbs deformed. 
Her doctors said she can only get treatment from South Africa but courts are refusing to give her passport back as she is facing a number of criminal charges including money laundering and attempting to kill Chiwenga while on a deathbed in 2019. 
Marry said Chiwenga, a former military boss who doubles as the minister of Health and Child Care was using courts, “to make me an example that women are subjects and should never be allowed to lead in any fora.”
Marry has on a number of occasions brought to court in a wheelchair as she is struggling to walk. 
Commenting on the picture, Jessica Geraldine, a children’s rights activist said criticised women rights activists for not taking action to ensure Marry’s safety. She said:
<blockquote>
 Women Rights groups, Feminists and Human Rights Defenders were nowhere to be found. Even Auxilia Mnangagwa the all Church goer never raised her voice!! Not even Women in ZANU PF raised their voices. 
</blockquote>
At some point, Marry appealed to the first family albeit remarking that Chiwenga had said he <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/first-lady-auxilia-mnangagwa-challenged-to-intervene-in-marrys-case/">determines where the wind blows</a> in Zimbabwe.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

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