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Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart has called for Zimbabwe to either abandon the ZiG or exclusively adopt the US dollar and the Rand, citing significant losses incurred by local authorities and supermarkets due to exchange rate disparities.
In a post on his X page, Coltart highlighted the issues stemming from the use of an official exchange rate (US$1: ZiG13.80) compared to a street rate (US$1: ZiG24), which has led to financial losses for businesses forced to operate under the official rate.
The CCC councillor added that aside from abandoning the ZiG in favour of the USD and ZAR, the only viable alternative for Zimbabwe is to allow the ZiG to float freely without artificial rate manipulation.
Coltart’s remarks follow reports that TM Pick n Pay has permanently closed its Harare Street branch. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Last night I had dinner with a Bulawayo supermarket owner and he told me of his inability to compete with the informal sector – unlike the informal sector he has to pay taxes, rates and his staff – but most of all he is compelled to sell his goods at the official ZIG rate.
He is buying the same goods he has to sell at the official ZIG from manufacturers who sell to him with impunity at the ZIG parallel rate.
Informal traders can come to his supermarket and buy the same goods in ZIG having burned their US$ and who then sell the same for US$ at a lower price in US$ than the supermarket can sell it for, thus totally undercutting the supermarket, right outside its doors.
He doesn’t know whether he can continue – and at the root of this all is the government’s insistence that the ZIG be artificially kept at a value which bears no relation to its actual value. Tied to this is seemingly one law for retailers and another for manufacturers.
The City of Bulawayo isn’t exempt from this either. The City is forced to accept payment of rates at 13.80 at present when the real rate in the streets is 24. This is further undermining the balance sheet and general finances of Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe has been down this path created by insane policies far too often.
I have said repeatedly that a new Zimbabwean currency should only be introduced when trust in the RBZ and Ministry of Finance has been restored. It had not been when ZIG was introduced and trust has been further undermined since its introduction.
We have no choice but to abandon the ZIG again and revert to either the US$ or Rand. If we do not entire swathes of industry and the retail sector will be destroyed. The only other option is to allow the ZIG to float freely without artificial manipulation of its rate.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Supermarkets and councils in Zimbabwe are struggling because of the exchange rates. One mayor wants to stop using the local currency and switch to US dollars or South African rand. A supermarket owner said he can't compete because he has to sell goods at a low official rate, even though he buys them at a higher street rate. The City of Bulawayo is also losing money because they have to accept lower rates for payments. The mayor thinks Zimbabwe should switch to a different currency or let the local currency's value go up and down naturally. If they don't change, many businesses could fail.

Supermarkets, Councils, Chocking Under "Artificial" ZiG Rate

Veteran opposition politician David Coltart has warned that the rise of Sengezo Tshabangu to become the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament will damage the country’s standing abroad and make Zimbabweans “the laughingstock of the world”.
Tshabangu, an obscure opposition activist, wrote to Parliament and the Ministry of Local Government in October 2023, recalling several CCC MPs and Councillors.
Surprisingly, both Parliament and the Minister acted upon Tshabangu’s letters, even though he had neither held a CCC office nor been a candidate in the 2023 general elections.
Subsequently, Tshabangu recalled dozens of additional CCC councillors and MPs, with the courts endorsing his actions, effectively establishing him as the de facto leader of the opposition party. 
This week, Tshabangu changed the party’s leadership in Parliament and also appointed himself Leader of The Opposition.
This came after Parliament rescinded the appointments that were made by Jameson Timba in February this year.
Posting on X, Coltart who is also the mayor of Bulawayo (CCC), Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, said Tshabangu does not have the mandate of the opposition to be its leader in Parliament. Below is Coltart’s post in full:
<blockquote>
I am appalled by the statement made by the Speaker of Parliament yesterday that Mr Tshabangu has been recognised as the leader of the Opposition in Parliament. In my view, this act is contemptuous of Parliament itself.
At their core, all Parliaments throughout the world are meant to be representative institutions. They have been established to give the public a voice.
The whole purpose of elections is to ensure that elected MPs can enunciate the concerns and issues of those who elected them.
This is the very essence of representative democracy. It follows that the leader of the Opposition must be a person who clearly represents the interests of citizens who oppose the government of the day and who has been clearly chosen by them, either directly or indirectly, to lead them in Parliament.
In the case of Mr Tshabangu, it is clear that he only represents his own interests and at most a tiny cabal of people around him.
The facts are stark. He has never held any high office in the MDC, or any of its successors, since it was established in September 1999.
At the May 2019 MDC A Congress in Gweru, he was not elected to any office. After the formation of the CCC, he was not elected or appointed to any office. In the August 2024 general election, he was not elected to any ward or constituency.
The facts show that after the general election last year, he purported to appoint himself as SG of the CCC, and subsequently to nominate himself as a PR Senator.
He has now appointed himself as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. Once again there is no evidence that this has been sanctioned by anybody other than himself.
The fact that Courts in judgments of exceptionally dubious and flawed jurisprudential reasoning have supported him in this illegal conduct does not rectify the fact that he does not represent anyone.
Other than his own say so there is no independent evidence of him being elected or appointed to these offices. In short, he represents no constituency, either directly or indirectly, and has little palpable support amongst the general electorate.
It is simply farcical for him to be presented as the Leader of the Opposition based on his own assertion. The Speaker has done both Parliament and the Nation a disservice by associating himself and Parliament with this narcissistic conduct.
It brings Parliament into contempt in the eyes of democrats and rational people both in Zimbabwe and elsewhere.
In fact, it does immense damage to Zimbabwe’s reputation internationally. Conduct like this simply would not be tolerated anywhere else in the democratic world.
Those who support this conduct need to have some serious introspection about the damage they are doing to “Brand #Zimbabwe”. All this does is make us the laughingstock of the world.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Tshabangu’s Rise Makes Zimbabwe A Laughingstock, Says David Coltart

A ZANU PF affiliate, ZANU PF Patriots, has accused Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart (CCC), of being complicit in the killing of scores of indigenous people before the country attained majority rule in 1980.
ZANU PF Patriots was reacting to Coltart’s earlier announcement that he would not attend the Independence Day celebrations on 18 April 2024 because the Government failed to recognise the Office of Mayor.
The ruling party affiliate, through its official X page, asserted that Coltart made the right decision by avoiding the event, alleging that he, along with former Rhodesian soldiers, had harmed indigenous people and harboured bitterness. It said:
<blockquote>
David Coltart did well by not attending independence celebrations. He killed our people. We defeated him and other Smith regime soldiers. He is still bitter, we did not want bitter people at independence events today.
</blockquote>
Commenting on the same issue, exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member Jonathan Moyo said Coltart’s decision to avoid the event “spoke volumes not only about Coltart’s lingering Rhodie politics” but also “his deep-seated hatred of Zimbabwe’s independence itself”. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Reports that David Coltart – the party-less Bulawayo mayor – yesterday “snubbed” Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations in the city that he purports to lead, apparently to protest what he alleged is the disrespect of his office by government, belie the fact that this is a case of an ex-Rhodie who fought in vain for and with Rhodesia to oppose and prevent the making of the nation-state of Zimbabwe that Zimbabweans in and outside the country were commemorating yesterday.
The “snub” spoke volumes not only about Coltart’s lingering Rhodie politics but also about the fact that – 44 years since Uhuru – he has not come to terms with the fact of Zimbabwe’s national independence as a permanent historical and existential reality.
It is telling that Coltart did not only publicise his “snub” of independence day commemorations as a big story and a major media event; but he also proved his deep-seated hatred of Zimbabwe’s independence itself by making sure that he did not organise a separate or alternative event for the residents of Bulawayo who follow or believe in his politics.
Here is a mayor of Bulawayo who did not want Bulawayo to have independence celebrations of any kind yesterday.
In this connection, it is also notable that Coltart’s “snub” of Independence Day was representational in that it was emblematic of the views and interests of his white constituents in Bulawayo who, like him, were conspicuous by their absence from the independence celebrations.
But, of course, the people celebrated in their numbers.
Going forward, now that he has made his “snub” of Zimbabwe clear and loud on the one and only one special day that matters the most as a symbolic expression and affirmation of Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, Coltart and his ilk should not be surprised, and they should not complain, when he is snubbed in practical terms, and even booted out of office!
</blockquote>
Coltart explained his reasons for snubbing the Independence Day to Bulawayo Councillors, saying he had not been formally invited to attend the event by the Government. He said:
<blockquote>
Councillors I need to explain my position to you all regarding the Independence Day celebrations today.
Whilst a general notice has been sent out to Councillor, the office of the Mayor has not been invited by Government to attend. This is a basic courtesy which should be extended to the office, not me personally as such.
I have also been advised that in recent years Mayors were snubbed at Independence Day celebrations to such an extent that they no longer attended. Whilst I hope this treatment of Mayors has ended I am not prepared to allow it to happen again.
A few weeks ago I was invited to a function – a Business Expo – where the office of the Mayor was snubbed by Government at the event. I registered a protest and left. I am not prepared to allow the office of Mayor to be denigrated again.
I have made sure that at events I have control over, appropriate Government officials are invited personally and I expect that the office of Mayor will be respected in a similar fashion going forward.
I am grateful that you are attending this national celebration and am with you all in spirit.
God bless Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"He Killed Our People", ZANU PF Affiliate Reacts To Coltart Uhuru Celebrations Snub

The Mayor of Bulawayo, Councillor David Coltart, says he has not been formally invited by the Government to attend the Independence Day celebrations this Thursday, 18 April.
In a message sent to councillors, Coltart said that a few weeks ago, he was invited to a Business Expo where the office of the Mayor was snubbed by the Central Government.
Coltart asserted that he was not prepared to allow the office of Mayor to be denigrated again. Reads the message:
<blockquote>
Councillors I need to explain my position to you all regarding the Independence Day celebrations today.
Whilst a general notice has been sent out to Councillor, the office of Mayor has not been invited by Government to attend. This is a basic courtesy which should be extended to the office, not me personally as such.
I have also been advised that in recent years Mayors were snubbed at Independence Day celebrations to such an extent that they no longer attended. Whilst I hope this treatment of Mayors has ended I am not prepared to allow it to happen again.
A few weeks ago I was invited to a function – a Business Expo – where the office of Mayor was snubbed by Government at the event. I registered a protest and left. I am not prepared to allow the office of Mayor be denigrated again.
I have made sure that at events I have control over, appropriate Government officials are invited personally and I expect that the office of Mayor will be respected in a similar fashion going forward.
I am grateful that you are attending this national celebration and am with you all in spirit.
God bless Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Excludes Bulawayo Mayor From Independence Day Celebrations Invitations

Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart has urged residents not to panic about the current water situation, saying the local authority is devising strategies to ensure the availability of the precious liquid throughout the dry season.
On 24 February this year, the Bulawayo City Council advised residents of water supply interruptions and suspension of the 120-hour water shedding programme to all city areas except industry and the Central Business District.
In a statement, Bulawayo Town Clerk Christopher Dube said the move was in response to reduced raw water pumping to the city as a result of a fault which occurred at Ncema Pump Station.
Bulawayo City Council (BCC) Director of Engineering Services, Engineer Skhumbuzo Ncube, said the water situation has been worsening since 2018.
However, speaking during the stakeholder consultative meeting to unpack the local authority’s service delivery blueprint, which was launched by President Mnangagwa on 01 November 2023, Coltart said residents should not panic. Said Coltart (<a href="https://cite.org.zw/no-need-to-panic-bulawayo-mayor-assures-residents-amid-water-crisis/">via CITE</a>):
<blockquote>
It is very important that our general public understand our strategy. Nyamandlovu is our strategy to get it up to full capacity and to protect it.
To do that, we need the police and possibly even the army. If we protect Nyamandlovu, that will help because that water comes into Magwegwe, and Magwegwe supplies the high-density suburbs.
</blockquote>
He said the second strategy is the Mtshabezi Dam, which is over 70 per cent full and the lifeline of the city. Said Coltart:
<blockquote>
We have a strategy where our engineers have devised a plan to protect that water and increase the flow from Mtshabezi.
It is the construction of a 2.5km bypass pipeline. It’s a small job, it can be done, and when it’s done, it will improve the water.
</blockquote>
He said the other strategy is the rehabilitation of Insiza Dam, “We will, as a city, get through this crisis. We must not panic.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bulawayo Mayor Says Residents Should Not Panic Over Water Crisis

The Mayor of Bulawayo, David Coltart has distanced himself from former MDC and PDP members who claim to have taken control of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party.
This comes after Harare Mayor, Jacob Mafume, who claims to be the CCC’s spokesperson, said Coltart was the party’s Treasurer-General.
Mafume and his allies who include Welshman Ncube and Tendai Biti, purport to have revived the MDC Alliance structures elected by the 2019 Gweru Congress to run CCC.
Coltart, who was elected MDC Alliance Tresurer-General, was among the party’s former bigwigs who snubbed a recent meeting of CCC members who sought to revive the structures from the Gweru Congress.
Responding to an X user who had asked to know his position regarding the remarks made by Mafume, Coltart said he ceased being Treasurer General a long time ago. He said:
<blockquote>
That is news to me. I ceased being Treasurer General ages ago. As I wrote in my statement recently I refuse to be drawn into any zero-sum game. The future of Zimbabwe depends on all genuine democrats finding each other and working jointly to defeat tyranny.
</blockquote>
Commenting on Coltart’s stance, journalist and government critic Hopewell Chin’ono said opposition political activists must resolve their differences and work together. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
This is why Blessed Mhlanga’s question was important and relevant to the current opposition drama, 
@DavidColtart has rejected Jacob Mafume’s assertion that he is the current Treasurer-General.
This now leads to more questions that need to be asked, questions asking who else was named and yet is not part of the CCC leadership structure in the faction represented by Jacob Mafume as party spokesman.
As the man he has always been, @DavidColtart has maturely advised anyone opposed to ZANU-PF corrupt rule to not fight to kill each other.
He realises that these opposition fights have only one beneficiary, ZANU PF.
</blockquote>
Coltart is among the majority of CCC’s elected representatives who resisted pressure to resign after former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa quit the party last month.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

David Coltart Rubbishes Mafume's Treasurer General Claims

Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor David Coltart has painted a bleak picture of the water situation in the city, which recently suspended its 120-hour water rationing regime.
Coltart took pictures of the dry Umzingwane River upstream of Umzingwane Dam, one of Bulawayo’s supply dams on Wednesday morning. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
The City of Bulawayo faces a major water crisis. Our dams are low and none of the rivers into them are flowing.
This morning I inspected the Umzingwane River upstream of the Umzingwane dam and these are the photos I took.
The river is bone dry – there aren’t even puddles. At this time of year, one would expect at least puddles.
</blockquote>
Coltart urged the Government to urgently declare Bulawayo as a water shortage area to enable the local authority to mobilise funds from third-party financials. He said:
<blockquote>
The government urgently needs to declare Bulawayo as a water shortage area and we need urgent financial assistance to take a variety of short-term remedial measures to mitigate the crisis.
These include getting the Nyamandhlovu aquifer pumps up to full capacity (and then protecting them from theft), constructing a diversionary pipeline on the Mtshabezi pipeline direct to the Umzingwane pump station, upgrading the Inyankuni dam pump station and duplicating the pipeline from Insiza dam to Ncema water purification works.
This needs to be done as a matter of extreme urgency. The BCC and local engineering companies can do all of this but we need urgent financial assistance to do so.
</blockquote>
The City of Bulawayo recently suspended the 120-hour water rationing programme to most of the city owing to reduced pumping capacity at the Ncema Dam plant where there are ongoing maintenance works.
The local authority introduced the 120-hour water-rationing schedule in December last year due to low levels of water in the city’s supply dams.
Before the introduction of the 120-hour water-shedding regime, the city was on a 72-hour water-rationing programme.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bulawayo's Rivers "Bone Dry", Supply Dams Terribly Low - Mayor

The mayor of Bulawayo, David Coltart, has been criticised for refusing to resign from his ceremonial post in solidarity with former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa who quit the party last month and for claiming Bulawayo faces “unique challenges”.
Solomon Harudzibwi, a pro-Chamisa political commentator suggested that Coltart has dismissed calls to resign from people outside Bulawayo saying they are not qualified to comment on the issue. Wrote Harudzibwi on X:
<blockquote>
I understand Bulawayo needs leadership (Mayor) but disqualifying people from commenting or sharing their thoughts on his decision not to resign based on their geographical location is quite unfortunate.
It’s those small acts that feel so good when you express them that keep us divided on tribal or regional grounds.
He sits there on a CCC ticket, which is a national party &amp; anyone’s views are valid regardless of location.
</blockquote>
In response, Coltart said he didn’t try to gag people from other areas and emphasized that Bulawayo currently faces unique challenges. He said:
<blockquote>
I have never suggested that people from other areas should not have their say – it is just important that we understand the context of their perspective.
Bulawayo currently faces unique challenges – for example, Lake Chivero is spilling but our dams have had little runoff and are drying up – and we desperately need action.
It is only if you live in Bulawayo and understand no water coming out of your taps that you will appreciate this type of concern.
I am not a tribalist or regionalist – never have been – but people from outside of Bulawayo need to understand our unique challenges and take them into account in expressing their opinions.
I would never be so presumptuous to dictate to people in Mutare for example what their current needs are – only they know them.
</blockquote>
Several people who commented on Coltart’s post scoffed at his claim that Bulawayo has unique challenges. Below are some of the reactions:
Alica Tsungu: “There are no unique challenges in Byo, there are places that have not had tap water for over 10 years in many parts of Zimbabwe.”
Tineyi Chakoroma: “Mayor David you’re dividing the nation with your Bulawayo people have “unique challenges” as if Zimbabwe is governed differently in provinces.”
Dr Glen Meda: “You can stay on as Mayor without throwing in those flimsy excuses Dave – It’s not right being dishonest. The big question is about political principles vis-a-vis the party that placed u there being hijacked &amp; corrupted by Zanupf; your colleagues being unjustly recalled; solidarity etc.
Fungai Dombo: “Nothing unique about Bulawayo. Since Nkomo’s time the Zambezi Matebeleland water project. You can’t be the Messiah to solve that in less than 5 years. The council does not construct dams but the national govt. To lie to us that you will resolve the water crisis in Bulawayo is a myth”
Flight Lieutenant Tashinga Pswarayi MP: “How much is the cost of a passport in Byo? Can you also confirm that we can pay for a passport in ZWL in Byo? Can we import cars older than 10 years into Byo? What are your plans for civil servants’ salaries in Byo? Will the US$5000 apply to me because I want to be a resident”
Nhubu yepa Dharuweni: “Not only in Bulawayo but many places in Zimbabwe don’t have water coming out of their taps”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Coltart Criticised For Saying Bulawayo "Faces Unique Challenges"

Bulawayo Mayor, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/David_Coltart/">David Coltart</a>, has stated that he is not resigning from the <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> party yet. The former Education Minister said he wants to consult with his constituents before making any decisions. There has been pressure on CCC officials to clarify their stance following the departure of <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a>, who claims that the party has been infiltrated and hijacked by the ruling ZANU PF and its allies in the CCC. Some people expect “genuine” CCC officials to resign, like Chamisa and <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a> did. However, others believe they should consult the people who elected them or wait to see what Chamisa plans to do next.
Coltart explained that he is consulting with various groups, including the residents of Bulawayo, trusted advisors, church elders, and his family. He said:
<blockquote>
I am still consulting a broad cross range of those who elected me, the residents of the great city of @CityofBulawayo, trusted advisors, the elders of my church and of course my family. I will issue a clear statement regarding my intentions before next week. In essence my focus is on those I am directly responsible to.
</blockquote>
In the meantime, Coltart expressed concern about the ongoing water crisis in Bulawayo caused by the dry weather. He said he has been in communication with government ministers regarding short, medium, and long-term water solutions. He urged residents to conserve water and report any leaks to the Bulawayo City Council. He said:
<blockquote>
I am deeply concerned by the ongoing dry weather affecting @CityofBulawayo. We have had precious little run off to our dams this season and most rivers aren’t flowing after this dry spell. We have very few weeks of the rainy season left. In the last few weeks I have written to both the Ministers of Local Government and Water setting out what our short, medium and long term water solutions are. I have asked central Government to assist BCC as we tackle this crisis. Until we get these measures in place I urge all residents to conserve water and to immediately report water leaks to BCC. We will get through this crisis – but only if we all act responsibly together.
</blockquote>
The government this year allocated ZW$7 billion and a borehole drilling rig to address the water shortages in the city. They are also working on the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project, which is <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/04/lake-gwayi-shangani-project-expected-to-start-pumping-water-in-2025-government/">expected to start pumping water in 2025</a>. The funds will be primarily used to repair broken-down boreholes at the Nyamandlovu Aquifer, aiming to pump 16 megalitres of water per day at full capacity.
Bulawayo has been grappling with water shortages for many years due to a combination of factors, including rapid population growth, ageing infrastructure, and limited water resources. The situation has been exacerbated by climate change and the unpredictability of rainfall patterns. To address the long-term water shortage, the Gwayi-Shangani Dam was proposed in 1912 as part of the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project (MZWP). However, due to a lack of political will and insufficient funding, the dam has yet to be completed. The project was recently awarded to the China International Water and Electric Corporation. 
Once finished, the Gwayi-Shangani Dam will be the third-largest inland water body in Zimbabwe, following <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Tokwe_Mukosi_Disaster">Tokwe-Mukosi </a>and <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Lake_Mutirikwi">Lake Mutirikwi</a>. The dam is located in Region Four, which experiences low rainfall and high temperatures. The government has invested over US$122 million in the project. In 2012, the government took over the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project (MZWP) from the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Trust, led by the late <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Dumiso_Dabengwa">Dumiso Dabengwa</a>. The government had promised to accelerate the project’s completion but had limited success. Engineers estimate that the dam will be 70% complete within three to four years, with water impounding expected to begin in the 2024/2025 season.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Bulawayo Mayor Coltart To Consult Constituents Amidst Pressure Over CCC Party Resignation

Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart, has reiterated that local government authorities do not have sufficient financial resources to repair and maintain roads. He made the remarks in response to Information Secretary Nick Mangwana who had argued that the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/05/councils-are-responsible-for-maintenance-of-city-roads-mangwana/">maintenance of city roads falls under the purview of Local Authorities. </a>
Mangwana said since 2000, there has been evidence of serious failure by these Authorities in various service delivery areas, including refuse collection, water treatment and supply, road maintenance, and street lighting. He added:
<blockquote>
To alleviate the suffering urban dwellers, Govt started making interventions such as buying chemicals for water treatment, deploying the ERRP2 program for roads and EMA taking charge of refuse collection and the Geopomona Project. There are always celebrations when Council Election Results are announced. Every ratepayer should ask themselves what they are really celebrating; these urban gullies in the picture?
</blockquote>
<img alt="" class="wp-image-269187 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="767" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/road-Poor-state-169x300.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/road-Poor-state-169x300.jpg 169w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/road-Poor-state.jpg 462w" width="432"/> 
  
Coltart agreed with Mangwana’s statement that local authorities are responsible for maintaining roads. However, he pointed out that the funds that local authorities used to collect for this purpose are now being collected by the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA). Unfortunately, most of the funds collected by ZINARA do not reach the local government authorities, resulting in insufficient resources for them to effectively carry out their duties and responsibilities. He said:
<blockquote>
The responsibility is but in the past local authorities were able to raise money through car licence fees but that money now goes to Zinara and we only get a pittance back. Local authorities need money to repair and maintain roads but cant do so if little money is paid over.
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/01/05/councils-are-responsible-for-maintenance-of-city-roads-mangwana/">Councils Are Responsible For Maintenance Of City Roads – Mangwana</a></li>
</ul>
His remarks echoed <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1743188669983326239">Hopewell Chin’ono’s sentiments</a>. The journalist did not hold back urging Nick Mangwana not to “LIE to your followers and Zimbabweans in general.” He said:
<blockquote>
You are getting away with these lies because the opposition has no dedicated shadow cabinet minister for Local Government, but we won’t let you lie on a public platform so we I will correct your lies!
LIE Number ONE 1. The Cities of Harare, Bulawayo and the rest of the country were responsible for road maintenance and collection of road levies and taxes, but in order to cripple them and steal public funds, the ZANUPF central Government changed the law using its majority in parliament and left cities without power to collect road taxes but responsibility to fix them. So all road levies, taxes, toll gate fees and the fuel levy which are supposed to fix the roads are collected by central government (read ZANUPF) not the cities.
</blockquote>
Chin’ono raised concerns about the allocation of funds for road maintenance in Bulawayo and Harare. He stated that Bulawayo received only US$800,000 from the central government for roads, despite the central government collecting over US$24 million from Bulawayo motorists. Similarly, Harare collected around US$64 million from motorists, but the city council was given only US$2 million. ZINARA retained the rest, he argued.
Chin’ono highlighted that Bulawayo needs at least US$15 million to maintain its roads and fix issues like potholes. He expressed frustration that the central government is not providing adequate funding despite the funds being available. He said in addition to road motor taxes, other sources such as fuel levies, carbon tax, and toll gate fees are also not being properly accounted for. He added:
<blockquote>
LIE Number TWO 2. The cities were responsible for buying their water chemicals, but you directed them to buy chemicals from only ONE company, Chemplex. That parastatal has old equipment which breaks down regularly. When the machines are not working, the cities are stuck. Secondly, Zimbabwean law says that it is the ZANUPF central government that is supposed to provide water sources, the money meant for these dams has been looted for decades.
</blockquote>
Chin’ono stated that Lake Chivero, which is Harare’s main water source, was built by the colonial government in the 1950s. After gaining independence in 1980, plans were inherited to construct the Kunzvi Dam from the previous regime. Unfortunately, successive governments under ZANU-PF allegedly misappropriated the funds meant for the dam. In 1996, there was another opportunity to build the dam, but the money was once again misused, leading the French company responsible for construction to withdraw.
Chin’ono then mentioned that in 2022, ZINWA (Zimbabwe National Water Authority) awarded a US$132 million contract to construct a dam in Nkayi to a prominent ZANU-PF figure, Kuda Tagwirei, but the project is not complete to date. 
Chin’ono added that although refuse collection is the responsibility of local government authorities, the procurement process is controlled by the central government. As an example, he mentioned that the City of Harare was forced to use trucks owned by a ZANU-PF Member of Parliament and Minister, the late Biggie Matiza. Chin’ono claimed that cities faced difficulties in obtaining foreign currency to purchase equipment, except during the Government of National Unity (GNU) period, while individuals like Matiza had access to foreign currency through the central bank.
Chin’ono further asserted that the Zimbabwean economy is controlled by ZANU-PF, not local authorities. He claimed that when cities applied for foreign currency, they were denied because it was allegedly being misappropriated by ZANU-PF political elites. He also alleged that ZANU-PF elites smuggle gold worth US$6 million daily to Dubai, leaving the money there.
Chin’ono criticized the ZANU-PF government for its alleged misinformation and mismanagement, particularly in relation to road maintenance and water supply operations. He accused Ignatius Chombo, a former Local Government Minister, of exacerbating corruption by making councils pay three times for a single shipment of chemicals during his tenure.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Local Authorities Need Money To Maintain Roads - Mayor Coltart Responds To Mangwana

A group of Bulawayo councillors in Zimbabwe are reportedly pushing for the recall of Mayor David Coltart, who is known for his strong stance against corruption. These councillors are allegedly unhappy with Coltart’s zero tolerance towards corruption and are now collaborating with Sengezo Tshabangu to have him removed from office.
Tshabangu, who claims to be the interim secretary general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has been recalling Members of Parliament (MPs) and councillors from the party, much to the delight of the ruling ZANU PF party.
The councillors who are seeking Coltart’s recall have allegedly been making various foolish accusations against him, including claims of heavy-handedness and dictatorship. It is believed that they are working in conjunction with ZANU PF to achieve their objective.
ZANU PF councillor Nokuthula Sibanda neither confirmed nor denied the alleged plan to remove Mayor David Coltart. However, she told the <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/theindependent/local/article/200020755/vultures-plot-against-coltart">Independent</a> that the councillors were dissatisfied with Coltart for not consulting them. Sibanda stated that they would approach Coltart to discuss their concerns. She was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
At first he engaged the Egodini project contractor Terracotta Pvt Ltd alone and after we complained we managed to meet them as councillors.
He also goes on business trips without consulting us. He does not want to go with us for workshops, each time we ask him to do so he always tells us that he is a busy man.
Last time when he went on leave he was supposed to leave the finance chairman acting  on his behalf as per council resolution but he chose to appoint councillor Ntombizodwa Khumalo to remain in an acting capacity as a mayor.
</blockquote>
Coltart acknowledged that some councillors were unhappy with his leadership style. He explained that the situation had worsened in recent weeks because of his busy schedule and frequent travels. He told the <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/theindependent/local/article/200020755/vultures-plot-against-coltart">Independent</a> that he had not had a Saturday at home since October 14 and that his wife had also not seen much of him. However, he denied the accusations of not consulting with his fellow councillors. He added:
<blockquote>
As regards me not consulting that is not altogether true. Before I went overseas in October I applied in a full council meeting for leave of absence which was granted.
</blockquote>
Sources suggest that these councillors are pursuing the interests of a former MDC A MP for Bulawayo who used his position as a councillor to acquire large plots of land and lucrative tenders. Now, they are attempting to shield these questionable acquisitions from scrutiny by the council.
David Coltart, a former Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, was elected as Mayor after the elections in August 2023. However, there are suggestions that Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), may try to recall Coltart. There is an account on X formerly Twitter in Tshabangu’s name, but we cannot confirm its authenticity. The account implies that Tshabangu may want to recall Coltart because he believes Coltart was forced on the voters by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Group Of Bulawayo Councillors Reportedly Pushing For The Recall Of Mayor David Coltart

David Coltart, a former Minister of Primary and Secondary Education in Zimbabwe, has attributed the Chevrons’ failure to qualify for the Cricket World Cup to poor administration. Despite their impressive victory over Kenya in the Africa qualifier tournament, Zimbabwe did not make it to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Expressing his disappointment, Coltart, who is also a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, highlighted the detrimental influence of successive administrations dominated by ZANU PF politicians on the country’s cricket. He laid blame on these administrations for undermining the sport’s development and progress. He said:
<blockquote>
Undoubtedly today is one of the bleakest days for Zimbabwe #Cricket. I am so sorry for all the lads and Dave Houghton who have tried so hard. Ultimately I blame successive administrations dominated by Zanu PF politicians which have undermined cricket so terribly in our Nation. But I remain a fervent fan and a new dawn will still arise. Our cricket is simply a reflection of all else which is wrong with our Nation. We need to get the fundamentals right – starting by taking cricket administration out of the hands of politicians- myself included- and allowing those who have played the game at the highest level, and therefore know the game, to run it.
</blockquote>
While David Coltart’s criticism of the Zimbabwe Cricket administration received some support, others disagreed and placed the blame on the players and coaches. Some argued that the team should take responsibility for their loss to Uganda, which was seen as a weaker team. They believed that blaming the administration was a deflection from the players’ performance.
Others raised concerns about the state of sports in Zimbabwe, highlighting issues such as decaying facilities and the neglect of sports by the government. They expressed the need for a change in administration, selectors, and overall culture within Zimbabwean cricket.
Some comments veered off-topic, with individuals bringing up historical issues such as the lack of opportunities for black players during the Selous Scouts era and making political statements.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

David Coltart Blames Administration For Zimbabwe's Failure To Qualify For Cricket World Cup

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart said that if the “wealth tax” proposed by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Mthuli Ncube in the 2024 National Budget is levied, it must be paid directly to local City and Town Councils so that they can determine how to use it.
In his 2024 National Budget presentation on Thursday, Ncube said the wealth tax will be levied at a rate of 1% of market values of residential properties with a minimum value of US$100 000.
Coltart argued that the wealth tax is not only problematic in principle, but also that there is no guarantee the central government will remit the funds to local authorities. He said:
<blockquote>
My greatest concern about Professor Ncube’s proposed new tax on properties is that it impinges upon Local Councils’ right to levy rates against property owners within Cities.
Whilst the tax is in principle problematic it is made worse because it will go to the central government with no guarantee that the money will come back fairly.
The City of Bulawayo has already suffered greatly since car licence fees were sent to ZINARA rather than BCC.
Likewise, although the City of Bulawayo built 5 dams using rate payers’ money it now has to buy the water stored in those dams from ZINWA.
The fact is that we get a fraction of the money paid to ZINARA which is impacting our roads. The same applies to ZINWA.
The City could have built more dams if it had been able to invest the money it pays to ZINWA.
Now the government wants to take further money based on the value of houses based in Bulawayo.
We have no guarantee that this money will come back to Bulawayo – indeed history shows that it probably won’t come back fairly.
For that reason, this new tax is completely unacceptable. If it is to be levied then it must be paid directly to local City and Town Councils so that they can determine how to use it.
If the principle of devolution is to be respected then local authorities must be given the financial power to develop the Cities/Towns they are responsible for.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Coltart Says "Wealth Tax" Should Be Paid Directly To Local Authorities

The Mayor of Bulawayo, David Coltart says the funds allocated to the construction of dams in the 2024 National Budget are inadequate.
Mthuli Ncube, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, allocated ZWL$389 towards dam construction projects in the country. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
Under the 2024 National Budget overall support towards dam dam construction projects amounts to Z$389 billion with priority being on the completion of the Gwayi-Shangani dam and pipeline with the dam now at the advanced stage of completion.
Other targetted dams include Kunzvi Dam with the associated treatment plant and conveyancing pipeline, Ziminya, Tulu-Manyange, Bindura, Semwa, Silverstroom and Vungu dams.
</blockquote>
However, Coltart said the total amount allocated to dam construction is less than a quarter of the amount needed for the Gwaai-Shangani to Bulawayo pipeline alone. He said:
<blockquote>
Professor Ncube states that a total of ZWL$369 billion has been allocated for the construction of ALL dams and pipelines in Zimbabwe next year.
He states that his priority is “the completion of the Gwaai Shangani dam and pipeline.”
ZWL$369 billion equates to US$67 million. The Gwaai Shangani to Bulawayo pipeline alone is expected to cost a minimum of US$400 million.
Accordingly, if every single cent of this budget allocation is applied to the pipeline alone it will still take almost 6 years to complete at this rate.
Obviously, it will be much longer than this because the Z$369 billion is the total applied for all dam projects.
Bulawayo simply cannot wait another decade or more. Our engineers insist that our short-term water needs are best served by duplicating the pipelines from the Insiza and Mtshabezi dams to Ncema purification works and building the Glassblock Dam (which will cost about half the cost of the Gwaai Shangani/Bulawayo pipeline.)
I implore the central Government to take what our engineers say seriously. We cannot afford to allow Bulawayo to run out of water when we have water supplies right on our doorstep.
</blockquote>
The City of Bulawayo has been grappling with water shortages for decades as its supply dams cannot provide enough water for the city throughout the year.
The city depends on six supply dams, Insiza, Inyankuni, Lower Ncema, Upper Ncema, Umzingwane, and Mtshabezi which are all located in Matabeleland South Province.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"ZWL$369 Billion Allocated To Dam Construction Projects Too Little"

Rural households in Zimbabwe are starting to experience the negative effects of El Niño which is expected to drive high needs across Southern Africa through early 2025. El Niño is a natural climate pattern that can bring increased heat and drought to some areas while causing heavy rains in others. Unfortunately, it appears that the weather has not been kind to people living in rural areas, making their lives very difficult.
Many farmers in Zimbabwe rely on the October rains to plant their crops, but the current situation is so severe that even those who work in the fields are not optimistic. This phenomenon, which is not new to Zimbabwe and the region, often leads to delayed and unpredictable rainfall, negatively affecting crops and livestock.
Rudo Mtetwa, a 32-year-old farmer from Chipinge, told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200020159/el-nino-zim-communities-sink-deep-in-poverty">NewsDay</a> that it has become challenging to produce anything on their farms due to the effects of climate change. As a result, they are forced to seek work in nearby irrigation farms just to survive, earning only $2 per day. Mtetwa added:
<blockquote>
I am no longer able to send my children to school due to lack of funds and I feel that if I get a piece of land in the irrigation scheme, I will be able to take care of my family’s needs. I want to plant tomatoes and other crops but I can’t do that in my own field as a result of El Niño.
</blockquote>
Talent Mutamakira, who is also from the same area, is urging the government to provide support to women in remote areas to lessen the effects of El Niño. She is asking for financial assistance to start income-generating projects like poultry farming. Mutamakira is appealing to the government to allocate land to women specifically for irrigation schemes, allowing them to grow horticultural products and earn a livelihood.
According to the 2023 Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Committee’s assessments, a significant number of people in both urban and rural areas will face food insecurity in the coming years. On 8 November 2018, the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS Net) predicted that strong El Nino will drive high needs across Southern Africa through early 2025. 
Zimbabwe is already grappling with the consequences of climate change, such as erratic rainfall patterns, floods, and prolonged droughts. The upcoming El Niño event in 2023-2024 is expected to worsen the situation, leading to aridity and impacting food and animal production. Southern parts of Zimbabwe will be particularly affected. In a post on X seen by Pindula News, Bulawayo Mayor David Colatart said the city will also be affected. He said:
<blockquote>
Below average rains are being forecasted for the southern part of Zimbabwe this year including Bulawayo. Our dams are already low so we must prepare for further water shortages. I appeal to all residents to do whatever they can to conserve water in the City. Please would owners of boreholes also be conservative in water usage. The water table is dropping and we must be responsible. Try not to water during the heat of the day – rather water in the early evening or at night so that evaporation is reduced.
</blockquote>
These challenges pose a risk to the progress made in reducing malnutrition, especially among children. Zimbabwe has experienced droughts in the past, leading to food deficits and stagnation in rural livelihoods. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation. The government aims to mitigate the impact of El Niño through irrigation development and dam construction. The World Food Programme and other organizations are working to strengthen climate-smart agricultural practices and access to water. However, there are concerns about resource misdirection and politicization of food during the El Niño period.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe Starting To Experience Negative Effects Of El Niño

The mayor of Bulawayo, Councillor David Coltart (CCC) has castigated Nick Mangwana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services, for dismissing reports on the alleged abduction of CCC MP Takudzwa Ngadziore on Wednesday as “social media chatter”.
Ngadziore was allegedly chased and kidnapped by heavily armed suspected State agents while on his way to Parliament, taken to Mazowe where he was tortured, stripped naked, and injected with an unknown substance before he was dumped.
Mangwana was commenting on the alleged kidnapping for the first time more than 24 hours after it was reported.
In response, Coltart said Mangwana’s remarks “compounds the crimes committed by the regime” that he serves. Said Coltart:
<blockquote>
Another utterly contemptuous statement. Systematic abductions and torture by State agents are crimes against humanity punishable in terms of international law.
For you to dismiss these serious allegations backed by video evidence as “social media chatter” compounds the crimes committed by the regime you serve.
Whilst of course formal reports must be laid the record shows that despite countless abductions, disappearances and torture committed by ZANU PF agents in its 43-year misrule of Zimbabwe, not one person has ever been convicted and served a jail term.
The last time, just a few weeks ago, a similar person was abducted and tortured, that person’s lawyers were arrested in utterly spurious charges of “obstructing justice”.
Those charges are being vigorously pursued against the lawyers but NOTHING has been done by the Police to arrest the people responsible for the original torture.
So your comment is a cynical ploy to deflect responsibility. But the regime you serve is responsible and will be held responsible for these outrageous and egregious crimes.
</blockquote>
In 2020, MDC Alliance MP Joanna Mamombe and her two colleagues were allegedly abducted, tortured and dumped.
The three were later arrested on allegations of faking the kidnapping.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Coltart Chides Mangwana For Dismissing CCC MP Abduction Reports As "Social Media Chatter"

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Winston_Chitando/">Winston Chitando</a>, the Local Government and Public Works Minister, has informed the Bulawayo City Council about the expulsion of 12 <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens'_Coalition_for_Change/">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> party councillors from the local government authority. The decision was made based on instructions from <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sengezo_Tshabangu/">Sengezo Tshabangu</a>, who claims to be the party’s interim Secretary-General. In Bulawayo, the 12 councillors that were recalled by Mr Tshabangu, include;
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Councillor Donaldson Mabuto (the deputy mayor),</li>
<li>Clr Shepherd Dube (ward one),</li>
<li>Clr Nkosinathi Hove Mpofu (ward six),</li>
<li>Clr Takunda Felix Madzana (Ward 18),</li>
<li>Clr Simbarashe Dube (ward 20),</li>
<li>Clr Tinevimbo Maphosa (ward 21),</li>
<li>Clr Thobeka Mmeli Moyo (ward 22),</li>
<li>Clr Arnold Batirai (Ward 24) and</li>
</ul>
Proportional representation councillors:
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Clr Sarah Cronje,</li>
<li>Clr Tabeth Mhizha,</li>
<li>Clr Dorcas Sibanda and</li>
<li>Clr Zibusiso Tshongwe.</li>
</ul>
On October 18, 2023, Minister Chitando sent a letter to the town clerk, Mr. Christopher Dube, stating that the city’s local authority must now inform the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission about the recalls so as to prepare for upcoming by-elections in the area, according to the <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/minister-chitando-notifies-bcc-of-ccc-recalls-as-councillors-meet-to-elect-acting-deputy-mayor/">Sunday News</a>. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
I wish to inform you that I am in receipt of a letter from the Citizens Coalition for Change, stating that the following councillors have ceased to be members of the Citizens Coalition for Change political party. In terms of Section 121 of the Electoral Act, please proceed to inform the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission of these vacancies.
</blockquote>
Today, the councillors met to choose an acting deputy mayor as a replacement for the recalled Mabutho. 
Bulawayo Mayor, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/David_Coltart/">David Coltart</a>, criticised the recalls and stated that the Minister’s actions are a significant violation of section 68 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to administrative justice. He said:
<blockquote>
The Minister was required to ascertain whether the person purporting to act on behalf of the party was authorised to do so. He was also required to act in a procedurally fair manner, which includes the right of the Councillors affected to be heard before he acted. But the greatest breach is the moral breach – all of these Councillors have recently been voted into office by the overwhelming votes (over 80% majorities in most cases), directly or indirectly, of the citizens of Bulawayo. This is a total negation of democracy- it is an outrage. 
</blockquote>
Coltart said that ZANU PF is the only party benefiting from these actions and is likely responsible for them. He said although this undermines the work of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Bulawayo_City_Council/">Bulawayo City Council</a>, they will keep working hard to improve the city. Coltart said they will also take legal and diplomatic actions to challenge this “unjust behaviour.”
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Local Government Minister Chitando Informs Bulawayo City Council About Expulsion Of 12 CCC Councillors

Bulawayo Mayor <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/David_Coltart">David Coltart</a> said that the city council will not forcefully remove vendors from areas in the Central Business District (CBD), such as along 5th Avenue, but will instead provide them with alternative locations to operate from.
Coltart made the remarks at the annual civic service to commemorate and celebrate the declaration of Bulawayo as a City, held at his church, the City Presbyterian Church at 5th Avenue and Jason Moyo Street. <a href="https://cite.org.zw/byo-mayor-rules-out-forceful-removal-of-informal-traders/">CITE</a> quoted Coltart as saying:
<blockquote>
One of the things we are committed to is restoring 5th Avenue. But we need to do that in a humane manner.
We have agreed as councillors and senior council leadership, that we will not be coming with truckloads of police with batons.
We have to provide, safe and attractive alternative venues for the vendors who clog these streets so that they can have better places to operate from.
That is how we can restore 5th Avenue and many other affected places in the city.
It is also, only then, that we can fully implement the city laws as far as the operations of vendors are concerned.
</blockquote>
Some of the vendors who have flooded the city centre were displaced from their designated areas of operation after the closure of the Egodini terminus.
Meanwhile, Bulawayo was declared a city on 04 November 1943, and annually, the local authority holds a church service on a Sunday near that date, at the incumbent’s mayor’s church.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cllr Coltart Rules Out Forceful Removal Of Vendors From Bulawayo CBD

Newly-elected City of Bulawayo Mayor Cllr David Coltart said he was astonished by the self-aggrandisement of some opposition councillors in the city over the past two decades.
Speaking at an engagement meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Tuesday, Coltart said some of his predecessors have been demeaning the values of opposition parties.
He claimed some opposition councillors undermined what the opposition stands for, by using their positions to get preferential access to stands and other benefits from the council. Said Coltart, as quoted by <a href="https://cite.org.zw/bulawayo-only-has-5-ambulances-needs-30/">CITE</a>:
<blockquote>
There are policies in place that a councillor may get one stand per five years, that’s OK because this is an honorous task, but that’s where it ends.
We must have total transparency. We need to have deep introspection as leaders, we cannot thrive to get on particular committees for particular benefits for ourselves. That has to end.
As councillors, we need to remember that we are elected to serve not to be served. I hope that that will be a dominant theme for the next five years.
We are not here to prioritize what benefits we might get for ourselves by virtue of our positions.
I have watched with astonishment and sat deep in thought in the last 20 years. The opposition in control of this council, has used its elective position to get preferential access to stands and other benefits and in so doing have completely demeaned the office of the councillor and the city council.
They have also undermined what we stand for as the opposition in this country.
We stand for being something different from the regime that has been in power for 40 years.
If we get into office and we do the exact same thing, we don’t just undermine the political party we represent, we undermine the very notion of democracy in our nation. And we undermine the people we love, the people we must serve.
If we don’t demonstrate a different standard of leadership, how can we expect a different standard from other people?
Maybe there are some recently elected individuals who may be seeing this as an opportunity for themselves, we need to set a new standard.
</blockquote>
Coltart also revealed that he will forgo getting a new mayoral vehicle during his term of office and prioritise the acquisition of ambulances, fire engines, and refuse collection trucks for the local authority.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Self-aggrandisement Must End, Coltart Tells Opposition Councillors

The City of Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart said he will forgo getting a new mayoral vehicle during his term of office and prioritise service delivery.
Speaking at an engagement meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Tuesday, Coltart also revealed that the local authority is operating with only five ambulances and needs a fleet of thirty to fully service the city.
He said the City of Bulawayo has an acute shortage of ambulances, fire engines, and refuse collection trucks. <a href="https://cite.org.zw/bulawayo-only-has-5-ambulances-needs-30/">CITE</a> quoted Coltart as saying:
<blockquote>
There is a car at the city council, it has been there for the past nine years. It will be enough for my five-year term.
I’m not going to buy a new mayoral vehicle unless this one breaks down or unless we get a full complement of our ambulances.
How can we have only five ambulances when we need thirty and still prioritize mayoral vehicles, that is absolute nonsense.
</blockquote>
Over the past two decades, service delivery in local authorities has sharply deteriorated and urban dwellers have mostly been affected as water supplies and refuse collection have become irregular, exposing residents to medieval diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
Councillors, especially in urban councils, have been accused of abusing resources for personal benefit instead of prioritising service delivery.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

I Can Do Without A New Mayoral Car - Coltart

Bulawayo Ward 4 councillor, David Coltart (CCC) has said if elected as Bulawayo mayor, the local authority will start by cleaning the city which he said has become a cesspit.
Coltart is CCC leader Nelson Chamisa’s choice for the Bulawayo mayoral job, and councillors have reportedly been instructed to vote for him.
Speaking during an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200016429/coltart-lays-out-vision-for-bulawayo">Southern Eye</a> on Friday, Coltart said the Council will engage businesses, churches and other pertinent parties to rid the city of filth. He said:
<blockquote>
Bulawayo has become a cesspit. There is rubbish everywhere. Before we can do anything else, we have to start trying to clean the city up. That cannot just be done by council alone. It will have to involve local businesses and the general public along with residents, associations, churches and the like. But that is my first immediate plan if elected.
</blockquote>
Coltart also said the incoming council will review all existing contracts that the city council has entered into over the years to ensure that the local authority was shortchanged. He said:
<blockquote>
I want to establish in my own mind that these (contracts) have been properly entered into, that they are lawfully entered into, that they followed correct tender procedures and that they are in the best interests of the citizens of Bulawayo. If I find that they are not, I will certainly consult the city council’s lawyers to see if there is any way in which they can either be amended or if need be, cancelled altogether.
</blockquote>
Some of the controversial contracts entered into by Bulawayo City Council over the past few years include the US$60 million tender awarded to Terracotta to refurbish Basch Street terminus and the vehicle parking deal with Tendy Three Investments (TTI).
Coltart said the Council will try to persuade the central government to be granted more autonomy “in line with the devolution aspirations of the constitution.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Coltart Lays Out Plans To Address Bulawayo's Challenges

Some CCC councillors in Bulawayo are reportedly plotting to defy party leader Nelson Chamisa’s directive to vote for David Coltart and Dumisani Nkomo for the city mayor and deputy mayor position, respectively.
In the run-up to the 2023 Harmonised Elections, Chamisa publicly endorsed Coltart as the party’s mayoral candidate in Bulawayo.
Coltart is a lawyer and former Minister of Education, while Nkomo is a civil rights campaigner.
The election for the city’s new mayor was initially scheduled to be conducted after the swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday.
However, the election was postponed to Monday after the Ministry of Local Government ordered all councillors to attend an induction meeting in Gweru on Thursday and Friday.
<a href="https://cite.org.zw/byo-councillors-plot-to-defy-chamisas-directive-on-mayor-deputy-mayor/">CITE</a> reported that some senior CCC officials in Bulawayo summoned the councillors on Wednesday morning before their swearing-in ceremony and instructed them to choose their preferred candidates.
A councillor who spoke to CITE on condition of anonymity claimed that the CCC officials are against the election of Coltart and Nkomo because the two will not give in to their demands. Said the councillor:
<blockquote>
The challenge is that there are people who want to go against what the party planned. There are external people, with huge amounts of money and with ulterior motives (of corruption) who are trying to push for their candidates to be elected on Monday.
They don’t want Coltart and Nkomo because they know they will not bend to their demands. There are reports that some councillors have already been given money by these people.
We also have it in good authority that they are hoping if Mabuto is the one to be elected as deputy mayor, then they can ride on that to push for their candidates again to chair strategic council committees to push their agenda.
It’s a pity because if they fall into this trap they will be recalled. That is the party position.
</blockquote>
CCC national spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi told CITE that the councillors have been instructed to vote for Coltart for the mayoral position. He said:
<blockquote>
As a party, we work with clear guidelines. Bulawayo has been advised accordingly on who will be mayor, and that is David Coltart. He was even endorsed at a rally in the city.
As for the deputy mayor, the councillors there have been told who has been chosen by the party.
Any other rumour will not be entertained and the party members are expected to act according to the guidelines of the party.
</blockquote>
CCC won all the Local Authority seats in Bulawayo as well as all the parliamentary seats in the province in the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Some Bulawayo Councillors Plot To Defy Chamisa's Directive On Mayor

Councillor Dumisani Nkomo, a potential candidate for the deputy mayor position in Bulawayo, has expressed his readiness to compete for the role. His remarks come amidst reports of a plan by some councillors to defy the party’s chosen candidates for the mayor and deputy mayor positions.
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa publicly endorsed Ward 5 Councillor and former education minister David Coltart as the future mayor of Bulawayo. According to sources, party official Senator Gideon Shoko conducted interviews, and Ward 9 Councillor Donaldson Mabuto was recommended for the deputy mayor position.
However, Nkomo claimed to be unaware of this process and criticized its secretive nature. He told CITE:
<blockquote>
I was not aware that such a process was taking place. It was not done openly. Very few people knew about it. I personally do not recognise it.
I believe in the cause of a progressive Bulawayo. I agreed to this challenge after serious consultations with family, friends and colleagues who also believe in the same cause. When I was approached, I gladly accepted the offer because I believe in a better Bulawayo. I don’t mind competition, there is nothing wrong with having various candidates to run for deputy mayor, what I am against is that this happens in a secretive manner.
There are a lot of people opposed to this because of selfish reasons. They want to perpetuate corruption for their own benefit. They want to benefit through tenderpreneurship. I’m not that kind of a person. The reason why I was approached and asked to work with Coltart as his deputy is because they believed that I have the capability to do so. We are ready to fight for a noble cause, to fight those who want to drive corruption in a city that means so much to so many people.
</blockquote>
Senator Shoko declined to comment on the issue. The election for the new mayor and deputy mayor of Bulawayo is scheduled for Monday.
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Councillor Dumisani Nkomo Says He's Ready To Compete For Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Position

Former Education Minister David Coltart says he will review all contracts awarded by the Bulawayo City Council if he becomes the city’s next mayor.
Coltart made the remarks after he was promised the position by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa at a rally in Bulawayo on Sunday.
Coltart, an experienced lawyer and long-time opposition activist, will contest Ward 4 which covers most of affluent Khumalo. He said:
<blockquote>
I want to use my experience as a lawyer to review all the contracts in Bulawayo’s council, to see if they are in the interests of the citizens of Bulawayo.
If we find that they are benefiting a small number of people then we will do everything in our power to cancel them
Our vehicle licences when paid go to Harare and that means we cannot rehabilitate our roads.
We will fight to ensure that the wealth that is generated in this city is kept here. We will fight to keep our wealth here.
</blockquote>
Speaking in an interview with State media last week, Coltart said he will review all the contracts entered into by the City of Bulawayo including the one awarded to the parking management company, Trendy Three Investments (TTI) if he is elected. Said Coltart:
<blockquote>
No, I have not said I will cancel it. I said I will review all contracts entered into by BCC to see whether they have been lawfully entered into and are in BCC’s best interests.
If they are not and can be lawfully cancelled, I will do whatever I can to act in the citizens’ best interests. 
Regarding the TTI contract, I said that it is one I will look at as I am concerned about the manner in which it is being executed.
</blockquote>
TTI runs the city’s parking management, having been awarded the tender in 2020 under a build, operate, and transfer (BOT) arrangement with Bulawayo City Council getting 30 percent from every dollar generated.
Meanwhile, Coltart is contesting against Minias Mpofu (ZANU PF), Dumisani Marira (NAP), and Chabalisa Mwinde (MDC-T) in Ward 4.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Coltart Intends To Review All Contracts If Elected Bulawayo Mayor

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa has endorsed former Minister of Education David Coltart to be the next mayor of Bulawayo if the party wins the upcoming election.
<a href="https://cite.org.zw/chamisa-endorses-coltart-for-bulawayo-mayorship/">CITE</a> reported that Chamisa endorsed Coltart at a rally held at White City Stadium in Bulawayo on Sunday.
The CCC presidential candidate said the party wants to have accountable and credible councillors who will deliver services for Bulawayo residents. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
We have realised that there are problems in Bulawayo’s local authority. There are some councillors who went with MDC, and they were being very funny and very dangerous.
So, we have said we are starting on a clean slate. We don’t want funny tricks in local government.
</blockquote>
Coltart, who is a lawyer, with 40 years of experience, said:
<blockquote>
If we find that they are not, that they are benefiting a small number of people, then we will do everything we can to cancel them.
We will also work hard to ensure that the income that is generated in this city is kept in this city.
At present, our water fees go to Harare, and so does the money that is remitted from our vehicles.
This means that we can’t fix our roads and deliver other services. We plan to keep our wealth here and use it accordingly.
</blockquote>
The opposition has dominated urban councils in the past two decades, a period that saw a rapid collapse in service delivery characterised by erratic water supplies, dumping of garbage in undesignated spaces, and raw sewage flowing in streets, among other issues.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa Endorses David Coltart For Bulawayo Mayorship

Nelson Chamisa, the leader of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), told party supporters at the White City Sports Stadium in Bulawayo this Sunday that the party’s agents had been deployed to all 12,374 polling stations. He confidently stated that the party would have the election results by August 24.
Polling agents play a crucial role in ensuring fair elections. They are appointed representatives of political parties tasked with monitoring polling stations. In the 2018 elections, the MDC Alliance, under Chamisa’s leadership, encountered challenges due to the absence of agents at certain polling stations. This resulted in allegations of rigging, but without their presence, the party was unable to substantiate the claims. Polling agents act as vigilant observers, safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and enabling parties to address any irregularities or concerns that may arise.
Chamisa also introduced David Coltart, a former Education Minister and council candidate for the party. Coltart, a seasoned lawyer, pledged to address pressing issues in the local government authority of Bulawayo. These issues include corruption, water scarcity, violation of vendors’ rights, corrupt tender allocations, and resident abuse. With his legal expertise, Coltart expressed his commitment to reviewing council by-laws that do not prioritize the public’s interests. 
The leader of CCC will address the final rally before the election in Harare on Monday.
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Chamisa: CCC Deployed Agents To All Polling Stations, Expecting Results By August 24

Zimbabwe’s former Education Minister during the Government of National Unity (GNU), David Coltart, has expressed concern over a BBC article on opposition leader Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Coltart noted that the article lacked balance, contained untruthful information about Chamisa, and urged the BBC to seek fresh perspectives. He said:
<blockquote>
I am concerned about the @BBCAfrica rehashing a story from 5 years ago which lacks balance and which in some respects is untruthful about @nelsonchamisa. Whilst I am obviously partisan how about reaching out afresh to some of us for our perspective on Chamisa?
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-65816279?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bbbc.news.twitter%5D-%5Bheadline%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D&amp;at_medium=social&amp;at_format=link&amp;at_campaign=Social_Flow&amp;at_campaign_type=owned&amp;at_link_id=AA69D220-396B-11EE-B817-CFE55B3BE886&amp;at_link_type=web_link&amp;at_bbc_team=editorial&amp;at_ptr_name=twitter&amp;at_link_origin=BBCAfrica">The article</a> reads in part:
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<blockquote>
Known for his tailored suits and designer jewellery, Zimbabwe’s main opposition leader Nelson Chamisa can work a crowd with all the drama of the Pentecostal preacher that he is.
</blockquote>
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</div>
<blockquote>
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He will now put that charisma to the test in the general election on 23 August when he will once again face President Emmerson Mnangagwa after losing to him in a disputed poll in 2018.
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Mr Chamisa will run for the presidency under the banner of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), the party he formed last year after he was thrown out of what used to be the main opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change.
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It came after a vicious power-struggle broke out in the party following the death of its founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai.
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Mr Chamisa was accused by his MDC rivals of staging a coup to wrest control of the party, and as the battle became increasingly vicious he was evicted from the party’s headquarters, and lost a court battle where his claim to the leadership of the party was challenged.
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It marked a low point for Mr Chamisa, but he made a comeback with the formation of the CCC. The string of victories it notched up in parliamentary by-elections was heralded by his supporters as a yellow revolution – a reference to the party colours.
</div>
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<div id="piano-inline1">On the campaign trail he has sounded optimistic about his prospects, despite saying that the political field is tilted against the CCC, with little access to state media, and an electoral commission he says is staffed by ruling party supporters.</div>
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<blockquote>
However, President Mnangagwa has said the elections <a class="ssrcss-k17ofw-InlineLink e1kn3p7n0" href="https://www.voaafrica.com/a/mnangagwa-promises-free-and-fair-elections/7055761.html">will be free and fair.</a>
</blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Pedzisai_Ruhanya/">Pedzisai Ruhanya</a>, a <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwean" title="Zimbabwean">Zimbabwean</a> academic and political commentator, also criticised the article as disgusting propaganda, questioning the claims made about Chamisa’s attire. He said:
<blockquote>
@BBCAfrica and @shinginyoka fact check your claims on jewellery and designer suits that you claim @nelsonchamisa is known for unless he puts on such in your newsroom not in the public. These are false claims not known by the public in Zimbabwe. It’s disgusting propaganda.
</blockquote>
In 2017, the UK Government was accused of assisting President Emmerson Mnangagwa in the removal of Robert Mugabe from power. Some believe that the BBC, as a public corporation of the British Department for Culture, Media and Sport, played a huge part in sanctifying Mugabe’s ouster. However, the extent of external involvement in political transitions remains uncertain due to the complexities involved and the difficulty in determining behind-the-scenes dynamics and influences.
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Zimbabwe's Ex-Education Minister Coltart Expresses Concern Over BBC Article On Chamisa

David Coltart has issued an apology to the former Information Minister, Jonathan Moyo following a tweet he posted which referenced the killing of Moyo’s father during the Gukurahundi atrocities in the 1980s. Moyo, who is in self-exile, took to Twitter to announce that he had accepted Coltart’s apology, praising him for his gentlemanly conduct.
<blockquote>
Subsequent to my tweet yesterday re: @DavidColtart’s tweet the previous day referencing my father, David has apologised through my DM and I have accepted his gentlemanly conduct in doing so!
</blockquote>
Coltart confirmed the report, stating that his intention was not to reopen old wounds. He acknowledged that the loss of a parent is a difficult experience and that political differences should never be allowed to inflict such pain. He said:
<blockquote>
I confirm my apology. My intention was not to reopen old wounds. The loss of any parent is hard to bear and political differences should never be allowed to inflict such hurts. I am grateful that Jonathan has accepted my apology.
</blockquote>
In a recent exchange on Twitter, David Coltart questioned why Jonathan Moyo continues to support a political party that has caused suffering to his family and continues to do so. Moyo responded by citing the Zimbabwean Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to make political choices freely. He also referenced Section 60 of the Constitution, which protects the freedom of conscience and expression for all individuals.
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Coltart Apologised To Jonathan Moyo For A Tweet Referencing Gukurahundi Atrocities

Bulawayo Mayor Councillor Solomon Mguni has slammed CCC local authority candidate David Coltart for insinuating that there is endemic corruption within the city, <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/mayor-pours-vitriol-on-coltart/">The Sunday News</a> reported.
Mguni likened Coltart to an “over-excited toddler” who has just been introduced to “jiggies” for the first time.
Coltart, who is contesting Ward 4, has been touted as Bulawayo’s next mayor if CCC wins a majority in the local government elections.
In an interview with a local online publication, the former Education Minister vowed to rid the local authority of corruption. Said Coltart:
<blockquote>
Bulawayo is not working because of corruption; it is driving away potential investors. I want our city to have more investments and we can do that by eradicating corruption, which has become endemic.
</blockquote>
Responding to the remarks by Coltart, Mguni said the former minister’s utterances were reckless and unfortunate. He said:
<blockquote>
We take great exception to such reckless utterances from an individual of such maturity and professional calling who once occupied a Cabinet Ministerial position in the Government of Zimbabwe.
While we are open to criticism as a public institution; we frown upon unfounded and baseless accusations of corruption and malpractices.
His assertions imply that all the Government agencies; including ZACC who carried out investigations and inquiries relating to the operations of the City of Bulawayo are incompetent.
We challenge him to produce proof of such corrupt practices on the part of management and councillors of the City of Bulawayo.
His behaviour is akin to that of an over-excited toddler who has taken sight of jiggies.
</blockquote>
Mguni accused Coltart of pushing what he termed the agenda of white monopoly empowerment. He said:
<blockquote>
We call upon all patriotic residents to ignore unsubstantiated claims that have the potential to harm the image of the city and drive away potential investors.
It is the likes of Mr Coltart who, historically, have been pushing the agenda of white monopoly empowerment at the expense of disadvantaged black entrepreneurs who are now seeking to reverse black economic empowerment by labelling it as corruption.
</blockquote>
Mguni joined the Douglas Mwonzora camp after the controversial 2020 pre-COVID lockdown Supreme Court ruling on MDC-T succession and as a result, was not among the Bulawayo councillors who were recalled.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bulawayo Mayor Likens David Coltart To A "Toddler" Excited Over "Jiggies"

Witness Dube, a former senior official of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), has made a statement on social media claiming that the “radar of democracy” is now permanently located within the ruling party, ZANU PF. This statement was made in response to criticism from David Coltart, a former Education Minister during the Government of National Unity (GNU), who had accused Dube of defecting and joining ZANU PF.
Dube had posted a photo on Twitter showing himself at a ZANU PF event while wearing the party regalia, which Coltart criticised as “utterly shameful”. In response, Dube claimed that ZANU PF was now the home of democracy. Dube’s initial tweet reads:
<blockquote>
Old friends meet again, albeit under revolutionary settings in Centenary, Mashonaland Central!
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F1oSNKpWIAAn3YN?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
</blockquote>
Coltart then responded by saying:
<blockquote>
Utterly shameful – but at least your true colours are out. When I think of the sacrifices innocent people made for you, when all along it was just a sham, I am appalled.
</blockquote>
Then Dube responded and said:
<blockquote>
The radar of democracy is now permanently resident in @ZANUPF_Official. But I do understand why you have to scream for your Mayoral post, you were never the people’s choice, &amp; now have to divert attention away from that fact. We are coming for the cities &amp; towns. EDpfeeee!
</blockquote>
His remarks are significant given his previous position within the MDC as the national spokesperson. It suggests that he no longer believes that the MDC can provide a viable alternative to ZANU PF in terms of promoting <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">democratic ideals</a>. While Dube is not the first to defect to ZANU PF, his departure and statements could have implications for the political landscape in <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Zimbabwe</a>, particularly as the country approaches its next elections.
Since its formation in 1999, the MDC has been committed to removing <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">ZANU PF</a> from power, accusing it of being autocratic and engaging in anti-democratic practices such as <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">election rigging</a>, voter intimidation, and harassment.
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