Former opposition MP Fadzayi Mahere has called on the government to address the root causes of the country’s economic struggles, arguing that once the fundamentals are fixed, citizens will have access to dignified employment opportunities and will no longer be forced into vending.
Mahere’s comments came in response to a 48-hour deadline issued by the government on Wednesday, demanding local authorities clear illegal vendors, particularly night traders, from undesignated areas in cities and towns across the country.
She argued that no one enjoys vending, but people are pushed onto the streets to engage in hawking because they have no other choice, given the severe unemployment crisis in the country. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
In the 80s, you didn’t have vendors on every street corner and in every road of Zimbabwe’s cities because the economy worked. 
One could get an education or skills then get employment or become an entrepreneur. Zimbabwe had a functional currency. 
We did not have 49% extreme poverty. The country was not bleeding US$2,2 billion annually to corruption and illicit financial flows. 
We had an extremely productive agricultural sector, a robust manufacturing sector and a decent service industry.
None of that is true today.
</blockquote>
The former Mt Pleasant MP believes that every Zimbabwean desires dignity and that Zimbabweans are inherently hardworking and resilient. 
However, she argues that they have been deprived of an environment that enables the average person to earn a decent living. Added Mahere:
<blockquote>
Nobody wants to wake up everyday and be a vendor nor does anybody want to spend the night buying and selling to survive. 
But what option do the masses have when they’ve been forced into this desperate position by a predatory, corrupt, incompetent, looting elite?
I can assure you that if the Govt fixes the fundamentals in our economy and people have opportunities and a dignified way to make a living, the vending crisis will take care of itself.
You cannot forcibly drive vendors off the street when you pushed them there with your incompetence, insatiable greed and destruction of the economy and the country.
</blockquote>
Mahere said government officials who issued the directive to remove vendors from the streets are out of touch with reality, as they are insulated from the economic hardships faced by ordinary Zimbabweans. She said:
<blockquote>
The detached political elites cannot even see the irony in chasing people off the street from the safety of their air-conditioned offices, big cars and lavish lifestyles that are the direct result of looting the very resources that should have been ploughed into the economy so that people aren’t forced into the pain and indignity of vending. Where is the empathy or accountability for the mess they created?
This is the most anti-poor, anti-productivity and anti-progress Govt this country has ever witnessed. It’s a mess.
</blockquote>
Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, who announced the 48-hour deadline, said the rapid growth of unregulated marketplaces has disrupted legally registered businesses. 
He also said these markets have intensified unfair competition and created unsanitary conditions, which pose a risk for disease outbreaks like cholera and typhoid.

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Fadzayi Mahere, a former MP, says government should focus on creating jobs before removing street vendors. She says people sell on the streets because of high unemployment. In the past, the economy was better, and people had jobs. Mahere believes if the government fixes the economy, people will have better opportunities and won't need to be vendors. She thinks the government is out of touch with the struggles of ordinary people. The government says removing vendors is important due to health and unfair competition reasons.

Tackling Unemployment Must Come Before Crackdown On Vendors, Says Mahere

Lawyer and self-proclaimed prophet, Joshua John Chirambwe, has responded to allegations made by fellow lawyer Fadzayi Mahere, who claimed he made inappropriate remarks about her in a WhatsApp group, forcing her to leave.
In a message that went viral, Chirambwe is said to have written, “There is this woman I adore beyond words – let’s say I’m rather fond of Fadzi.”
He went on to describe another woman in the group as having “elegance that could give royalty a run for their money” and a character “sweet enough to make sugar.”
Mahere, in her letter to the Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ), argued that Chirambwe’s comments amounted to sexual harassment, adding that his behaviour had been ongoing.
However, in a letter dated February 10, 2024, Chirambwe denied making the comments, arguing that Mahere should provide a forensic report linking his mobile device to the alleged messages.
He questioned the validity of the claims and requested concrete proof before he could respond further. Below is Chirambwe’s letter to LSZ:
<blockquote>
1. The above matter refers and the complaint which borders on the farcical.
2. It is with a modicum of dismay that the first knowledge I garnered of this complaint was via the highly public and unfortunately informal social media. Maybe because I am young, but I thought that it is in the interests of procedural propriety for such matters to remain between the relevant parties.
3. It never entered my contemplation that Fadzai Mahere would take the audacious step of submitting such an unadorned, disjointed and bare “complaint” to the hallowed regulatory body entrusted with overseeing the integrity of our entire profession, the Law Society.
4. The action is, with due respect, a lamentable spectacle, wherein a matter of questionable import is artificially inflated to a procedural level that, to a reasonable observer, appears to be an overt affront to the professionalism and gravitas that the Law Society commands.
5. In light of this, one is left to ponder whether the public, by virtue of this conduct, is not only disillusioned but, indeed, wholly justified in questioning the esteem and dignity that should ostensibly characterize our profession.
6. I am young. Fadzai Mahere’s name was first brought to my attention during my tenure in secondary school. Upon the completion of my academic pursuits, our professional paths converged, placing us as colleagues within the very same precincts.
7. We are both occupants of distinguished spaces within the esteemed Tanganyika House, where I, as the proprietor and chairman of the Justice Bar of Advocates, Inns of Court, preside from the 3rd floor, whilst she is elsewhere within the confines of the same building.
8. Our professional proximity is further utilization of the same parking facilities, wherein our vehicles are underscored by our mutual often stationed adjacent to one another, and our frequent and amicable interactions in the lift, where salutations are customarily exchanged.
9. Given this proximity, one might reasonably surmise that had Fadzai Mahere harbored any concerns, she would have availed herself of the professional courtesy of addressing them directly with me prior to taking recourse with the regulatory body which has more important issues to deal with.
10. Such an approach would have yielded a more congenial resolution, sparing parties from undue escalation, copying Advocate David Ochieng and Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba. I have so much respect for Advocate Magwaliba who assiduously addresses and responds to the myriad inquiries I have proffered to him concerning matters of law whilst generously endowing me with an extensive repository of legal knowledge. I regret that they have been burdened with receipt of such a barren matter.
11. It is with this background that I find the current complaint somewhat perplexing. It seems that the crux of Fadzai Mahere’s complaint stems from certain screenshots of the 15th of January 2025, allegedly capturing a conversation within a Whatsapp Group.
12. An overture was duly extended to Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba, undertaken in the spirit of mediation, with the understanding that the complaint at hand is, in my considered view, a manifest absurdity and, quite frankly, a matter so trifling as to border on the farcical.
13. The legal practitioner involved ought to have been well aware that any meaningful and substantive response to her complaint necessitates the production of the original WhatsApp screenshot, complete with its meta data, since she predicates her complaint on mere copies of the alleged screenshot, which in their current form, fail to permit an inspection of their veracity.
14. It is like being asked to give an opinion on a mystery novel, but not reading past the cover page.
15. She will also appreciate that the nature of her complaint cannot be reasonably addressed in the absence of a full and unaltered transcript of the WhatsApp conversation, inclusive of all preceding and subsequent messages that contextualize the incident. As a matter of law, she must duly provide the meta data concerning the precise date and time of her joining the group and of her departure from the group, along with verifiable evidence that substantiates the purported reason she cites for her exit.
16. Maybe because I am young, but it is like being told to write a review for a movie that you haven’t seen and the trailer was just a blur!
17. Further, to the best of my recollection, I have never, under any circumstances or in any WhatsApp exchange anywhere in this world, made any reference to Fadzai Mahere. She must therefore be cognizant of the fact that I cannot, in a good faith response, respond to her allegations without her first establishing a clear causal link between the screenshot and her person. Before one responds to a ghost story, they must verify if the ghost even exists. This is dry law and reason.
18. I am blissfully united in matrimony with my dearest Mukudzei, a woman of remarkable accomplishments and grace. As the Chief Operations Officer of Joshange (Pvt) Ltd, Chairlady of Joshua Resorts and Vice President of Prophetic Ministries International Church, she exemplifies excellence in her professional achievements, she is a dedicated legal practitioner who, by choice, has endeavors. Beyond her corporate embraced the role of nurturing our two cherished children, Beyonce and Chloe. In light of my union with my beloved wife, Mukudzei, I perceive no cause to seek the companionship of another woman.
19. Given the gravity of her allegations against me, it is essential that the requested be furnished to surrounding her departure can be scrutinized in full, and the alleged ensure that the circumstances rationale for her exit can be properly assessed in the context of the present complaint.
20. Maybe because I am young, though I must assert, with the utmost clarity, that my ability to competently address the allegation in question is contingent upon Fadzai Mahere’s establishment of a discernible legal foundation. This includes, but is identification of the specific actions directed at her or addressed to not limited to, the precise her being proffered as constituting sexual harassment, coupled with the comprehensive reference to any pertinent statutory definitions or legal provisions that underpin such an accusation. I cannot be expected to explain a dream that I never had, hence a causal link must be established.
21. Perhaps Fadzai Mahere has misjudged my character and disposition. I am a paragon of unwavering resolve, a man of riches and unbounded courage, unshaken by the presence of any individual, whether they be living or the departed, such that had I harbored any intention to proffer my affections towards her, I would have approached her directly unencumbered by any apprehension, given arrangements and frequent cordial exchanges in the lift. our approximate parking.
22. Even in this instance, such an overture cannot, in and of itself, constitute sexual harassment. As a legal practitioner, she is well aware that any expression of interest by a man is inherently subject to her discretion to either say [1] YES, or [2] NO. Like Viola in Twelfth Night, Act 1, scene 5. But, verily, I possess no desire nor affection for Fadzai Mahere, forsooth, mine heart is pledged unto my fair wife, with whom I share a bounty of love and devotion even in the wake of this complaint, as a man bound by marriage’s sacred vow.
23. Fadzai Mahere must also be aware as a legal practitioner that I cannot meaningfully respond to her allegation without her furnishing a forensic report to demonstrate that my mobile device was indeed the source of the screenshot on the alleged day. Given that WhatsApp operates on a global scale and is not under the jurisdiction of any single nation, including Zimbabwe, it is crucial to trace the message to the specific device, including the IP address, to confirm its origin. Absent this report, her allegation is speculative and lacking in credibility. like being told that I cooked a meal that I never ordered; I am just as It’s confused as everyone else is. This is the dance that she says I choreographed when I never even made it to the studio!
24. Without the specifics demanded herein, any attempt on my part to respond would be nothing short of an exercise where one attempts to navigate through an impenetrable fog of ambiguity, where no discernible path exists.
</blockquote>

Fadzai Mahere said Joshua Chirambwe made inappropriate remarks about her in a WhatsApp group, but Chirambwe denies this and wants proof. He says Mahere should provide evidence like the original messages and meta data from the WhatsApp conversation. Chirambwe also said he is happily married and has no interest in Mahere. He believes Mahere misunderstood his actions and should have talked to him first instead of going straight to the Law Society of Zimbabwe. Chirambwe wants concrete evidence before he can respond to the claims made against him.

Chirambwe Denies Mahere's Sexual Harassment Claims, Demands Evidence

Lawyer Fadzayi Mahere has filed a formal complaint with the Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ) against fellow lawyer and self-styled prophet, Joshua Chirambwe after he reportedly made inappropriate comments about her in a WhatsApp group.
In one of the messages, which has since gone viral, Chirambwe allegedly wrote, “There is this woman I adore beyond words – let’s say I’m rather fond of Fadzi.” He said:
<blockquote>
And there is another lady in this group, whose elegance could give royalty a run for their money. Her character? Sweet enough to make sugar but how can I approach them?
</blockquote>
In her letter to LSZ Executive Secretary Norman Mapara, Mahere argued that Chirambwe’s actions constitute sexual harassment and emphasized that this behaviour has been ongoing for an extended period. Wrote Mahere:
<blockquote>
Previous messages of this nature caused me to exit the group. I have attached copies of the said messages to this complaint for your attention. They are published under the moniker “Young Money.”
It is my humble view that such sexual harassment has no place in the legal profession.
I therefore lodge this complaint in terms of, inter alia, clause 3(23) of Sl 37 of 2018 and request that disciplinary action be taken against this legal practitioner.
</blockquote>
Mapara has since sent a letter to Chirambwe, requesting a response to the allegations within 14 days. He said Chirambwe’s actions may constitute a violation of the By-Laws of their profession. Wrote Mapara:
<blockquote>
These allegations point to a possible contravention of By Laws 3 (23) of the Legal Practitioners (Code of Conduct) By – Laws, 2018 SI 37 of 2018 and part 6.2.1 of the Law Society of Zimbabwe Sexual Harassment Policy, 2024.- failing or neglecting to treat professional colleagues with courtesy, respect and fairness; unwanted or unwelcome sexual attention of an offensive nature made by a person who knows, or reasonably should know, that the attention is unwanted or unwelcome and the person to whom it is made may conclude that the conduct was intended to offend, humiliate, disrespect or degrade him or her.
In terms of the Law Society By-Laws, I am required to inform you of the present complaint, and to require you to reply to the allegations within fourteen (14) days.
</blockquote>

Lawyer Fadzayi Mahere complained to the Law Society of Zimbabwe about another lawyer named Joshua Chirambwe for making inappropriate comments about her in a WhatsApp group. Chirambwe said some lusty things about Mahere which she found offensive. Mahere said this behavior is like sexual harassment and it has been happening for a while. The Law Society is looking into the matter and Chirambwe has to respond to the allegations. They said his actions may go against their professional rules about treating colleagues with respect and not doing unwanted sexual things. Mahere wants Chirambwe to face disciplinary action.

Mahere Files Formal Complaint Against Lawyer Who Made Lusty Comments About Her In WhatsApp Group

Opposition politician Fadzayi Mahere has sharply criticized the “ED2030” agenda, which refers to the push by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s supporters to extend his rule beyond the constitutional two-term limit, that is, from 2028, when his second and final term ends, to 2030.
In recent days, some of the ED2030 proponents have gone even further, suggesting that Mnangagwa’s rule should be extended to 2033, effectively giving him a third term in office.
Responding to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere’s statement, Mahere dismissed the notion as “patently nonsensical.”
She argued that the ED2030 agenda is being driven by “a small coterie of power mongers in ZANU PF who want to extend their incompetent, corrupt rule.”
Mahere’s scathing rebuke comes in the wake of ZANU PF’s efforts to extend Mnangagwa’s tenure, which the opposition leader sees as an affront to Zimbabwe’s democratic principles and the will of the people.
In a post on the social media platform X, Mahere rejected the suggestion that those who oppose any proposed extension of presidential term limits are merely acting at the behest of Western interests. She wrote:
<blockquote>
Zimbabweans are smart enough to be able to call out unconstitutional abuses of power and regressive imperial tendencies when we see them.
</blockquote>
Earlier this week, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere criticized the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) for their vocal opposition to the proposed presidential term limit extension.
Muswere claimed that the ZHOCD consists of “donor-funded individuals pretending to represent the Church in Zimbabwe.”
Responding to Muswere’s statement, Mahere asserted that the majority of Zimbabweans do not support the ED2030 agenda.
She said Zimbabweans had overwhelmingly voted in favour of the current constitution, which limits presidential terms to two.
The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations had previously warned that extending Mnangagwa’s term would amount to a “coup against the constitution.” Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
The 2013 Constitution which imposes strict term limits on the presidency was passed by a referendum by the people of Zimbabwe. The people have not said they want that to change. Indeed, we do not.
A small coterie of power mongers in Zanu PF who want to extend their incompetent, corrupt rule cannot usurp the Constitution and what the people declared as their collective will in the constitutional referendum.
This is the essence of why Zimbabweans were so opposed to Robert Mugabe – yet here you are, trying to revive his penchant for holding onto power when it is time for change.
Never in a million years, Ian Smith said. I will rule from the grave, Robert Mugabe said. Until 2030 you say.
History will tell you it never works.
</blockquote>

Opposition leader Fadzayi Mahere is upset about a plan called "ED2030" that wants to let President Mnangagwa rule until 2030 or even longer. She says it's a bad idea by corrupt people in the ZANU PF party. Many Zimbabweans agree with her and want the president to follow the current rules that only allow two terms. Religious leaders and ordinary people are against changing the rules too. They say it's like going against what the people of Zimbabwe want. Mahere thinks this plan is wrong and reminds people of the problems when leaders try to hold onto power for too long.

Mahere Decries "ED2030" Agenda As Power Grab By A Corrupt ZANU PF "Coterie"

Constitutional law expert Fadzayi Mahere has said the government cannot issue title deeds for farms that were seized and redistributed during the land reform programme without first amending the constitution, as doing so would be unlawful.
This follows the government’s recent appointment of the Land Tenure Implementation Committee, chaired by Kudakwashe Tagwirei, to convert existing land ownership documents (such as 99-year leases) into bankable, registrable, and transferable titles.
The goal is to enable farmers to use their land as collateral to secure loans from financial institutions.
However, Mahere argued that, at present, no law empowers the state to issue title deeds for agricultural land. She expressed her views on social media:
<blockquote>
At law, there are only 3 methods by which one can hold, use or occupy state land. These are by way of an offer letter, a permit or a lease.
There is no law that empowers the state to give out title deeds for agricultural land. The Gazetted Land (Consequential Provisions) Act says this expressly.
Ownership in state land vests in the State by operation of law in terms of section 72(4) of the Constitution.
All the previously held title deeds for this land were endorsed accordingly. Check the Deeds Office.
How would you purport to undo all that and start issuing new title deeds? There’s no legal mechanism by which such conveyancing can validly take place.
In short, it would be unconstitutional to alienate the land in the manner suggested. You would have to repeal section 72 of the Constitution in its entirety and effectively reverse everything you were trying to do during the Land Reform Program.
You’d have to amend the Constitution to create this imagined security of tenure. Stop lying to yourselves and the public.
</blockquote>

The government cannot give out title deeds for farms without changing the constitution first, says Fadzayi Mahere. They appointed a committee to make existing land documents more valuable. Farmers could use their land as collateral for loans. But Mahere says there is no law to give out title deeds for agricultural land now. This would go against the constitution. They would have to change the Constitution completely to do this. Mahere says the government is not being honest about this.

Government Cannot Issue Title Deeds For Farms Without Constitutional Amendment - Mahere

The former MP for Mt Pleasant, Fadzayi Mahere, has said it is not the duty of members of parliament to focus on building wells and boreholes for their cholera-ridden constituencies, calling it a failure rather than a success.
Mahere argues that it is the role of the Central Government, not Parliamentarians, to provide clean water to communities.
She said the primary role of MPs is to make laws and oversee government conduct and policy.
According to Mahere, MPs should address specific policy concerns of their community and use their influence to drive progress, rather than taking on the responsibilities of the government. Mahere wrote on X:
<blockquote>
If you’re an MP of a party that’s meant to be governing and your PR is that you build wells and boreholes for your cholera-ridden constituency, I want you to know that that is failure and not success.
It’s not the role of a Parliamentarian to deliver water to communities. It’s the role of Central Govt which your party controls. (Read s6 of the Water Act.)
When you have to patch up the incompetency of Govt in this way, what you’re actually telling us is that your party has failed to govern. People don’t want wells built by MPs, they want clean tap water delivered in the proper manner.
The role of an MP is to make law and exercise oversight over Govt conduct and policy. They bring to the fore the specific policy concerns of their community and use their convening power to drive progress but they can’t usurp the function of Govt.
A ZANU PF MP who says he or she is doing well should tell us what motions they brought forward, what debates they made to the enactment of legislation, how their committees are holding the Executive to account, their policy position on the Budget and other policies proposed by Govt.
When an individual MP is now trying to do what a whole executive has failed to do, it’s an indictment on the competence of that Govt and its ultimately unsustainable.
</blockquote>
On 26 January 2024, Mahere announced her resignation from Parliament, saying she could not continue representing a party whose leadership was unknown to her and whose motives and values were unclear.
Her resignation came after Nelson Chamisa, who played a significant role in forming the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), announced his departure from the party.
Mahere stressed her commitment to honesty, transparency, and accountability. She felt that the party was no longer aligned with these principles.
She cited the jarring electoral fraud witnessed in August 2023 as a factor in her decision.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fadzayi Mahere, a former MP, says MPs should focus on making laws and overseeing government, not building wells. She believes it's the government's job to provide clean water, not MPs. She resigned, feeling her party's leadership was unclear and not aligned with honesty and transparency. Mahere criticized MPs who focus on building wells instead of addressing policy concerns. She thinks it shows government failure. Mahere wants MPs to push for progress using their influence, not take on government responsibilities. She resigned after Nelson Chamisa left the party and due to electoral fraud in 2023.

MPs' Role Is To Oversee Government Policy, Not Drill Wells And Boreholes - Mahere

Outspoken former MP Fadzayi Mahere has denounced the “Mbinga culture” that has pervaded Zimbabwe, saying it does not represent the nation’s identity.
The term “Mbinga” in Zimbabwean slang refers to young, wealthy people who live lavish lifestyles, often flaunting their wealth through expensive cars, flashy clothes, and extravagant parties.
This term has become associated with a culture of displaying unexplained wealth, which some people view as a reflection of corruption and economic disparity in the country.
Some of the so-called mbingas are closely connected to self-styled prophets, particularly those who preach the “Prosperity Gospel.”
One of these prophets was secretly filmed bragging about laundering millions of dollars, which is a crime.
Some of the prophets associated with Mbingas fake miracles to gain followers, whom they then dupe into parting with their hard-earned money.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Mahere argued that the “Zimbabwean Dream,” which stands in opposition to the Mbinga culture, is about getting a good education, working hard, and making an honest living. She wrote:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean Dream is about getting a good education, working hard and making an honest living.
We are the society that celebrated the bright child in the village who became a teacher, the firstborn who went on to become a nurse, the A-grade student who went on to excel in med school and the entrepreneur who started a bus company.
We are the society that would seek out a decent job and come back home to thank our parents by giving them our first salary and a blanket.
We are a society that would work hard, save up to buy a car then go back home to show our parents the fruit of our hard work as we took them for a spin.
We are the society that taught children not to pick money off the floor because it is wrong to take what’s not ours.
We are a society that didn’t demand welfare from the State, undue tax breaks or even a free ride from Govt.
Instead, our demand was for a sound socio-economic ecosystem that gives us a fair opportunity to work, make a decent living that enables us to put food on the table, send kids to school and put a roof over our heads.
Mbinga culture – with all its corruption, lies and fake miracles – is not who we are.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, some Zimbabweans see the Mbinga culture as a symbol of success and economic empowerment for those who have risen from humble beginnings.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former MP Fadzayi Mahere spoke out against the "Mbinga culture" in Zimbabwe, which is about young, rich people showing off their wealth. Some of these people are connected to fake prophets who deceive others for money. Mahere believes the real Zimbabwean Dream is about working hard, being honest, and not relying on handouts. While some see Mbinga culture as a sign of success, Mahere disagrees. She thinks it doesn't represent the true identity of Zimbabweans who value hard work, education, and honesty.

Mbinga Culture Does Not Represent Our Identity As Zimbabweans - Mahere

Former opposition Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere has criticized the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) following its request for public participation in a Customer Satisfaction Survey.
The RBZ stated that the survey aims to gather feedback from customers to better understand their experiences and identify areas for improvement. <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=TJ3OxyovCkKubw7m-T3sVQS7ovPjqRtDt1qqUdOZnS9UMUtGSU8yMFNNSVdHVFhJSlA4WVpYVkJURS4u&amp;route=shorturl">click here for the link to the survey</a>). The central bank said:
<blockquote>
We value your feedback and invite you to participate in our survey regarding the services provided by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe in 2024. Your insights are crucial in helping us understand your experiences and identify areas for improvement. Please take a moment to answer the provided questions honestly and thoroughly. Your responses will remain confidential, and we will use them solely to enhance our service delivery.
</blockquote>
In response, Mahere argued that the RBZ should issue a public apology instead of inquiring about customer satisfaction, particularly given its failure to fulfill basic responsibilities, such as issuing a timely Monetary Policy Statement.
She also pointed out that the ZiG currency, launched by the RBZ in April 2024, is already out of circulation before the larger denominations were even released. Wrote Mahere on X:
<blockquote>
Oh my gosh – the audacity! For a minute I thought it was a parody account. How dare you ask about customer satisfaction when you failed to do the bare minimum of issuing a Monetary Policy Statement on time as is mandatory under the RBZ Act only to launch a dud of a currency that you pretended was backed by gold and is now out of circulation before the big notes were even released? Your incompetence is breathtaking and you owe us an apology.
Even your boss won’t take a chance with your ghost currency and gives donations and prizes in USD. The whole of SADC won’t touch it.
Everybody is highly dissatisfied. Your silly survey is tone deaf and doesn’t even canvass issues relevant to your actual mandate.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former MP Fadzayi Mahere is mad at RBZ for doing a customer survey instead of apologizing for issues like not releasing timely Monetary Policy Statements. She says the new ZiG currency failed, and no one wants it. Mahere thinks the survey is useless and doesn't address the real problems. RBZ wants feedback on its services, but Mahere says they need to say sorry for their mistakes first. She thinks RBZ should focus on fixing problems instead of asking about customer satisfaction.

"Even Your Boss Won't Touch ZiG", Mahere Slams RBZ Over Customer Satisfaction Survey

Former Member of Parliament for Mt Pleasant, Fadzayi Mahere (CCC), has urged the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube, to present the 2025 National Budget in US dollars instead of the ZiG currency, which is prone to depreciation.
Ncube is expected to announce the budget this Thursday, November 28, at the New Parliament in Mt Hampden.
Mahere also advised Ncube to avoid introducing new taxes. Instead, she suggested reducing or removing VAT on small businesses, the 2% tax on banking transactions, the sugar tax, and import duties on basic goods. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>BUDGET WARNING: Today Mthuli Ncube will make his 2025 Budget Statement. The biggest mistake he can make would be to announce tax increases on an already shrinking tax base. Instead, he should do the following:</li>
<li>Announce tax incentives (especially for corporations) to encourage compliance;</li>
<li>Reduce the corporate tax rate remove the unnecessary VAT on small businesses to stimulate productivity;</li>
<li>Find ways to widen the tax base as opposed to squeezing the few who pay tax;</li>
<li>Reduce toll fees and fuel levies to reduce the overall cost of goods;</li>
<li>Remove or reduce the 2% tax on banking transactions to reduce the overall cost of doing business;</li>
<li>Remove the sugar tax;</li>
<li>Remove or reduce the ridiculous property tax;</li>
<li>Remove import duty on basic goods to decrease the overall cost of living;</li>
<li>Remove obstacles on trade between manufacturers and retail suppliers;</li>
<li>State the budget in realistic USD figures so that it’s not a circus of announcing meaningless figures that are certain to devalue and which will in most instances never be disbursed.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former MP Fadzayi Mahere wants Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube to announce the 2025 budget in US dollars to prevent depreciation. She also advises against new taxes. Instead, Mahere suggests reducing or removing taxes on small businesses, banking transactions, sugar, and import duties. She wants tax incentives for compliance, lowering corporate taxes, widening the tax base, and reducing toll fees and fuel levies. Mahere also wants property tax and obstacles on trade removed. She wants the budget stated in USD to prevent the devaluation of the currency.

Mahere Urges Mthuli To Avoid New Taxes, Present Budget In USD

Fadzayi Mahere, a Constitutional Lawyer, Law Lecturer, and Former Member of Parliament, criticised the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) for insisting that the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency remains legal tender.
Advocate Thabani Mpofu stated on Monday that the ZiG lost its legal tender status on October 4, when the law that established it expired.
In response, the RBZ’s Corporate Affairs Department explained that the ZiG was established through Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) under S.I. 60 of 2024, representing a one-time act of currency reform.
The Central Bank maintained that currency reform measures do not expire simply because the legal instrument that initiated them has lapsed. Said the RBZ:
<blockquote>
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe wishes to advise the public and all stakeholders that there is no gap at law regarding the Zimbabwe Gold currency.
The Zimbabwe Gold currency, (ZiG) was established through Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) proclaimed under S.I 60 of 2024, which constitutes a one-time act of currency reform.
Currency reform measures by their nature do not lapse simply because the instrument that introduced the reforms has lapsed.
The lapsing of the Presidential Temporary Powers that established the currency does not, therefore, create a gap in the law. Legally, currency reform measures are only revoked by another legal instrument.
Meanwhile, it should be noted that The Finance Act which has since been gazetted into law, simply declares the provisions of S.I 60 of 2024 and is not meant to validate them.
Thus, ZiG remains the country’s legal tender, and the Reserve Bank will continue to consolidate its use and stability.
</blockquote>
Commenting on the RBZ’s statement, Mahere said the central bank should have remained silent instead of providing an incoherent and legally unsound response. She posted on X:
<blockquote>
Dai mangonyarara henyu. If you have a legal department, I’m sure they were not involved in the crafting of this notice. You concede that the legal basis for your zigzag has lapsed yet you suggest that the currency remains legal tender? How? What do you mean when you say the Finance Act declared the provisions of SI 60/24 but doesn’t validate them? So what does it do? What law is that?
This is embarrassing. We need new leaders.
</blockquote>
In another post, Mahere said the law establishing the ZIG had a 6-month lifespan, and since that period has elapsed, there is no longer any legal basis for the ZIG. She wrote:
<blockquote>
The law that created the ZIG had a 6 month lifespan. 6 months have since passed and there’s no longer any legal basis for the ZIG. It is invalid. It is not *legal* tender.
You don’t enact monetary laws by way of a press release or public notice from the Central Bank.
Legislation must be duly promulgated in line with the constitutionally-mandated law-making process.
Until this is done, the whole country is just playing one big game of Monopoly.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fadzayi Mahere said RBZ is wrong to say ZiG is still legal tender. ZiG legal status expired on Oct 4. RBZ says ZiG was made legal currency by a law that has ended, but currency reforms don't end with the law. Mahere says there is no legal basis for ZiG now. The Finance Act does not validate ZiG. Mahere wants new leaders. She says laws need to be properly made. RBZ should stay quiet if they are not sure. Until ZiG is made legal properly, it's like playing Monopoly.

Mahere Critiques RBZ's Stance On ZiG Legal Tender Status

Former CCC Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere said Sengezo Tshabangu’s move to appoint himself as the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament is a “fraud”.
This week, Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC’s Interim Secretary General, changed the party’s leadership in Parliament and also appointed himself Leader of The Opposition.
The changes came after Parliament rescinded the appointments that were made by Jameson Timba in February this year.
Posting on social media, Mahere said Tshabangu is a ZANU PF puppet who has no mandate from CCC members or people who voted for the opposition party in the 2023 harmonised elections. She wrote:
<blockquote>
This fraud on the will of the people lies at the heart of my decision to resign from the farce that is Zimbabwe’s Parliament as currently configurated. This tragic outcome was foreseeable to any person paying attention.
The reality is that he is a ZANU PF puppet and his formation is a ZANU PF construct, created to do its bidding. Zimbabwe has been reduced to an effective one-party state.
He was never the leader of CCC nor did he hold any office that would make him remotely capable of making decisions for members. No values. No honour. No mandate from the membership or the people.
Participating in this ZANU PF-engineered joke of a “Parliament” could never be me. Zimbabwe runs a whipping system.
How could I possibly agree to be whipped by someone who is whipped by ZANU PF? What about the people who elected me to stand for change and hold ZANU PF to account?
</blockquote>
Mahere said the elevation of Tshabangu to the role of Leader of the Opposition in Parliament is part of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s strategy to secure an unconstitutional third term. She added:
<blockquote>
That’s why they’ve decimated Parliament and installed a puppet opposition that pushes their agenda. Zimbabweans should not put up with any further violations of the Constitution. Don’t be co-opted into their toxic power grab. It’s a mess.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Tshabangu A Fraud And ZANU PF Puppet"

UK-based Zimbabwean lawyer and author, Petina Gappah has apologised to former CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere over the several allegations she made against her in 2018.
In a statement this Monday, 27 May, Gappah “unequivocally” retracted all the statements she made against Mahere, and publicly and “unreservedly” apologised.
The allegations prompted Mahere to file a US$1 million defamation lawsuit against Gappah, and in March this year, the High Court suggested that the latter required psychological intervention.
In the statement, Gappah she wanted to “bring a conclusive end to the legal action”. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
In September 2018, following a public spat on Twitter, now X, I posted a number of statements about Advocate Fadzayi Mahere, namely that:
<ul>
<li>she got into the University of Zimbabwe through the help of her father in 2004;</li>
<li>she was an intern in The Hague in 2009;</li>
<li>she attempted to “get into [the] pants” of the father of my son after he asked me to help her with her application to Cambridge University; and</li>
<li>I helped her to get into Cambridge by editing her application essay in October 2009.</li>
</ul>
Advocate Mahere considered my statements to be untruthful, defamatory and injurious to her. Consequently, she launched legal action against me for causing “irreparable harm” to her political career, her career as a civil society activist and her career as an advocate.
In order to bring a conclusive end to the legal action, I hereby fully and unequivocally retract all the statements that I made about her, both on Twitter and in subsequent legal pleadings, and tender a full, public and unreserved apology to Advocate Mahere for any pain, hurt or distress that were caused by my statements.
I wish Advocate Mahere continued success in her political career, her career as a civil society activist and her career as an advocate.
As a demonstration of my good faith, sincerity and regret, I undertake to make a donation in Advocate Mahere’s name to the charity of her choice. It is my sincere hope that this full retraction and apology brings finality and closure to this matter.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Petina Gappah Retracts Defamatory Allegations Against Fadzayi Mahere

Top lawyer Fadzayi Mahere has raised concerns over the Government’s plans to introduce a “structured currency.”
She argues that the lack of public education and the absence of a legal framework pose significant challenges to its implementation.
In February, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced that the Government was actively working on a structured currency as part of their efforts to enhance currency and economic stability.
Reports indicate that the launch of this structured currency is imminent, coinciding with the appointment of John Mushayavanhu as the new Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor.
Fadzayi Mahere, sharing her thoughts on social media, advises the public to exercise caution. She points out that previous currency introductions in recent years have all faced challenges and ultimately failed. She said:
<blockquote>
Rule number one, if they mention anything to do with “1:1 gedye”, know we are heading for disaster. Last time they said that we ended up at 1:42000.
Rule number two, if they mention anything to do with “gold backing”, know it’s a scam. What happened to the gold-backed Ziggy jiggy? Did it stabilise the economy?
Rule number three, no legal framework, no legal tender. You don’t “launch” a currency like you’re launching a music album.
It is called “legal tender” for a reason. It must have the force of law. You can’t roll out something as important as money without a legal statute.
Rule number four, why the ambush? Why not give people notice of what you’re trying to do so you calm suspicion?
They have a knack for taking an economic idea and mangling it so it implodes – look no further than the forex auction that wasn’t an auction.
How many times do we need to learn the lesson that command economics does not work?
</blockquote>
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart also warned that the proposed “structured currency” will face challenges unless the institutions overseeing its introduction and management regain public trust. He said:
<blockquote>
I have noted statements made recently that the current government intends to introduce a new currency this week with some alarm.
The solution to hyperinflation and a weakening currency does not lie in replacing it with a new currency.
The reason our present currency has performed so badly is that people DO NOT TRUST the institution responsible for regulating it.
The most important criterion in the running of any central bank is TRUST. Until TRUST is restored this new currency is doomed to fail as well.
TRUST is only created when those running the central bank are recognized professionals who have been appointed because of their integrity and demonstrable skills, not who they know.
TRUST is only created when there is total transparency and the central bank is demonstrably being run for the benefit of all, not just a small ruling clique.
</blockquote>
In recent years, the Goverment has introduced several currencies that include Bearer Cheques, Traveller’s Cheques, Agro-Cheques, Bond Coins, Bond Notes, RTGS, Zim Dollars, Nostro, Gold Token and ZiG.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Structured Currency: You Don’t Launch A Currency Like You’re Launching A Music Album - Mahere

Fadzayi Mahere, the former Member of Parliament for Mt Pleasant (CCC), has announced that she will not participate in the upcoming by-election in her constituency. She cites the unchanged conditions that prompted her initial resignation.
In her statement on Thursday, March 21, Fadzayi Mahere highlighted several issues.
These include the “illegal” recall of Members of Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, as well as Speaker Jacob Mudenda’s refusal to engage in discussions on matters of national importance and his dismissal of points of order related to sensitive issues.
These factors contributed to her decision not to participate in the upcoming by-election. She said:
<blockquote>
After many consultations and personal reflection, I have decided that I will not be running in the upcoming by-election. The conditions that drove me to resign in the first place have not changed.
The reasons for my resignation include the gross disrespect of the votes cast by citizens in August 2023, the refusal by the Speaker to hear arguments on points of national interest, hijacking of the whipping system, the refusal by the Speaker to entertain points of order on sensitive matters, the unleashing of violent riot police to attack opposition MPs during parliamentary sessions, the illegal recall of opposition MPs, the banning of opposition candidates, the disregard of standing orders and parliamentary privilege, the selective application of parliamentary rules, the repeated illegal suspensions of MPs and the hijacking of the opposition parliamentary caucus.
In fact, we see the further desecration of the August House by the swearing-in of characters such as Sengezo Tshabangu who were front and centre of spitting on the will of the people.
I maintain that, in its current form, Parliament does not represent the will of the people.
I remain committed to the cause of a truly democratic Zimbabwe and will remain active, engaged and vocal on the issues that matter to the common person.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fadzayi Mahere Won’t Run In Mt Pleasant By-election Due To Unchanged Conditions

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proclaimed the date for the sitting of the nomination court, and the date for by-elections for Harare East and Mt Pleasant National Assembly constituencies.
The Harare East and Mt Pleasant seats fell vacant following the resignations of Allan Norman Markham and Fadzayi Mahere, respectively.
Both MPs were members of the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC).
In terms of Proclamation 1 of 2024 in Statutory Instrument 37A of 2024 published in the supplement to the Government Gazette Extraordinary dated 05 March 2024, the nomination court shall sit at the Magistrates Court Rotten Row, Harare on 26 March. The by-elections will be held on 27 April 2024. The proclamation by President Mnangagwa reads in part:
<blockquote>
WHEREAS, in terms of section 129(1)(b) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the seats of members of Parliament for Harare East and Mount Pleasant have become vacant by reason of resignation of Markham Rusty and Mahere Fadzayi on the 20th of February, 2024, who were the elected members of Parliament for the respective constituencies;
AND WHEREAS it is provided by section 39(2) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], that after the President has been notified in terms of the said section of vacancies in the membership of Parliament, he shall issue a proclamation ordering a new election to fill the vacancies in the same manner, mutatis mutandis, as is provided in section 38 of the said Act in regard to a general election;
AND WHEREAS, the Speaker of Parliament has notified me on the 20th of February, 2024, in writing, of vacancies for the afore-mentioned constituencies:
NOW, THEREFORE, under and by virtue of the powers vested in the President as afore said, I do, by this proclamation—
(a) order new elections for the constituencies of Harare East and Mount Pleasant; and
(b) fix Tuesday the 26th day of March, 2024, as the date on which the nomination court shall sit, commencing at 10 o’clock in the morning, at the Magistrates Court Rotten Row, Harare, for the purpose of receiving nomination of candidates for election as a member of National Assembly Constituencies for Harare East and Mount Pleasant; and
(c) fix Saturday the 27th of April, 2024, as the day on which a poll shall be taken if a poll becomes necessary in terms of section 46(17)(c) of the Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13].
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare East, Mount Pleasant By-elections Set For 27 April

The High Court has overturned the conviction and sentence of former Mount Pleasant MP and lawyer Fadzayi Mahere for communicating a false statement in 2021 by Harare Magistrate Taurai Manuwere.
On Wednesday, 28 February, Justice Benjamin Chikowero and Justice Pisirayi Kwenda ruled that Mahere had been charged, tried and convicted on the basis of a non-existent law and upheld her appeal and quashed the conviction and sentence.
According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), Mahere had in April 2023, been fined US$500 or imprisonment for three months after she was convicted of undermining public confidence in a law enforcement agency, the Prison Service or the Defence Forces of Zimbabwe.
Mahere was arrested on 11 January 2021 by the police, who charged her with publishing or communicating a false statement with the intention of inciting or promoting public disorder or public violence or endangering public safety as defined in section 31(a)(i) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act alternatively section 31(a)(iii) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act for allegedly undermining public confidence in a law enforcement agency, the Prison Service or the Defence Forces of Zimbabwe.
She was accused of sharing a message on the X social media platform wherein she allegedly communicated that a ZRP officer had beaten to death a baby that was strapped on its mother’s back, a claim which prosecutors said was false.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Court Quashes Fadzayi Mahere's Conviction And Sentence For "Dead Baby" Tweet

Fadzayi Mahere, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Mt Pleasant, has announced her decision to resign from Parliament with immediate effect. In a statement that was seen by Pindula News, Mahere stated that she is leaving the opposition party Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), which she represented in the August 2023 elections. She explained that she cannot continue being a representative of a party whose leadership is unknown to her and whose motives and values are unclear.
This decision comes after Nelson Chamisa, who played a role in forming the CCC, announced his departure from the party. In her statement, Mahere expressed her gratitude to the constituents of Mt Pleasant and acknowledged the honour of serving as their representative. She emphasised her commitment to honesty, transparency, and accountability in her decisions.
Mahere reflected on the founding principles of the CCC, which aimed to prioritise the welfare and aspirations of the people. She mentioned that their goal was to build a new Zimbabwe that offered dignity, prosperity, and opportunities for all citizens. Mahere said:
<blockquote>
Dear Mt Pleasant Constituents,
<h3>RESIGNATION FROM PARLIAMENT</h3>
Above all, I want to thank you. I do not take your confidence in me for granted. In fact, it has been the honour of my life to represent you. This is not the end for us but the beginning of a different journey.
One of my first promises to you was to always be honest, transparent and accountable in my decisions. It is in this spirit that I wish to lay out my reasons for leaving the Citizen’s Coalition for Change and resigning from Parliament with immediate effect.
When the CCC was launched in January of 2022, it was with the shared understanding that this new movement would be underpinned by the core value of being citizen-centred. It would put the welfare and aspirations of constituents like you at the heart of all decision-making. Our goal was to build a new Zimbabwe that offered dignity, prosperity and opportunity for everyone.
We agreed to run under the leadership of President Nelson Chamisa as we sought to introduce a new way of doing politics. Central to this objective was a belief that we would put the people first.
In the wake of the jarring electoral fraud we witnessed in August 2023, we made the tough decision to represent those hard-won constituencies in an effort to push the democratic process from multiple fronts.
Despite numerous odds, we fought hard to push back against unjust, anti-people pronouncements like the 2024 Budget, the fees crisis in higher education, the power crisis, the broken economy and the imposition of candidates following a series of fraudulent recalls.
Despite our focus on a battle of ideas and policy, the regime chose the low road of an unconstitutional onslaught on the will of the people. They used surrogates and dark actors such as a Mr Tshabangu, whom I do not know and have not met. Their goal is to force the two-thirds majority they failed to garner in August 2023 despite unprecedented electoral malpractices that left the region, and indeed the globe, in shock.
We have seen the widespread abuse of state institutions which have effectively handed over all levers of control of the CCC to this imposter. The assault on the will of the people, the tainted state of Parliament, coupled with sundry breaches of Parliamentary privilege, illegal suspensions and the decision by President Nelson Chamisa to dissociate himself from the captured CCC have made it untenable for me to continue in my role as a member of parliament for Mt Pleasant Constituency under the CCC banner.
You chose me to represent you on a platform of values which are no longer at the heart of the CCC. I cannot remain a representative of a party whose leadership is unknown to me and whose motives and values remain opaque. I would be failing you if I held onto a position that will no longer serve the best interests of our community. 
The CCC that I joined is not the CCC that we have left today. I cannot in good conscience be aligned to individuals who have caused unimaginable harm to the people by aligning themselves with a corrupt dictatorship.
I also cannot partner with persons who are willing to undo the will of the people and hand over seats that citizens stood in line for hours to vote for just to score cheap political points. This is not who I am or who I aspire to be.
The struggle for a democratic society should never be sacrificed at the altar of expediency. I remain committed to the cause of a better Zimbabwe. This is not an end but merely a line in the sand.
As always, I will remain a champion of the numerous causes important to our diverse community. I remain at your disposal, as we collectively navigate this uncertain phase ahead of us. Together, we will win Zimbabwe for change.
To give legal effect to this decision, I will tender my formal resignation notice to the Speaker of Parliament in line with section 129(1)(b) of the Constitution early next week when Parliament re-opens.
Forever in hope,
Fadzayi Mahere
26 January 2024
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Fadzayi Mahere Announces Resignation From Parliament

Zimbabwean opposition politician Fadzayi Mahere says the fight for democracy in the southern African country is not easy as it can land one in jail for demanding authorities to be accountable.
Posting on X this Friday, Mahere who is a member of the Citizen Coalition for Change (CCC) and the Member of Parliament for Mt Pleasant in Harare, warned that repression will only get worse if democrats bury their heads in the sand. She wrote:
<blockquote>
The fight for democracy is never a walk in the park. It can mean getting arrested for a peaceful “save the baby” protest. It can mean jail for tweeting. It can mean being manhandled by the police for insisting on the rule of law.
Over the years, I’ve learnt that unless we resist dictatorship, it only gets worse.
On Wednesday, Parliament adjourned until midnight as we debated an anti-people Budget that will cause immense suffering to an already broken, hungry and poor population.
We spoke out against the proposed high taxes, the sharp increases in toll gate charges for basic services like passports and car registration, the inflationary impact of the stated policies as well as proffering solutions for how things can be done better.
We put forward the views our constituents had assiduously compiled since the Budget Statement was made in the hope of influencing a rethink of the problematic policies which will further destroy an already comatose economy.
That Budget has been crafted by those who are unable to put the people first and would rather loot and plunder than give Zimbabwe a fighting chance to succeed again.
The ultimate victim of an anti-people Budget is the common man or woman on the street. The poor and downtrodden suffer the most when harsh policies that exempt elites are imposed on us.
When we campaigned over the last election, the promise we made was that we would be the voice of the masses and that we would never stop fighting for a Zimbabwe that puts the people first. That is the core of all political activity.
A few weeks ago, a CCC mobilizer, Tapfumanei Masaya, was tortured and murdered in cold blood during a door-to-door campaign for his representative who had been illegally recalled to make way for a Gold Mafia kingpin.
After this murder, our candidate, along with five others who had also been illegally recalled, was banned from the ballot for no reason.
The sham was endorsed by state institutions that are meant to uphold the Constitution and the will of the people. They handed him the seat with no election, not even a rigged one.
When Parliament reconvened on Thursday, we raised a point of national interest around the fact that the propriety of the election was sub judice and that how it was conducted was an affront to representative democracy.
Elected representatives had been pushed out of Parliament to make way for unelected ones.
The Speaker unconstitutionally refused to hear the points raised and instead, in an alarming breach of Parliamentary privilege called the Police in on us to violently throw us out and banned us for four sittings.
Dictatorship thrives when voices are silenced. Dictatorship wins when we stop insisting on the Constitution and democratic values.
Dictatorship gets comfortable when the citizens get tired. Dictatorship grows horns when hope fades.
It’s painful and costly. Change is slow and sluggish. But we must never stop imagining that Zimbabwe can be free, prosperous and governed in a way that creates opportunity for everyone to thrive.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fight For Democracy Never A Walk In The Park - Mahere

Valentine Ziko, a student at Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT), was reportedly kidnapped on Monday during a violent police raid. Fadzayi Mahere, a Member of Parliament, stated that Ziko was taken by a group of unknown men who attacked, covered his eyes and shoved him into a car. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Mahere, a senior official in the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), mentioned that Ziko was questioned about his association with the party. She said:
<blockquote>
ALERT: We’ve received a report that Valentine Ziko, a student, was abducted from Chinhoyi University of Technology yesterday. During a violent police raid, a group of unknown men attacked and blindfolded him. They bundled him into a car where they started assaulting him. They took him to an unknown location, tortured and sprayed cold water on him while demanding the whereabouts of other named students. They kept beating him up and forced him to unlock his phone. They interrogated him about @Zinasuzim and @CCCZimbabwe.
They interrogated him about the CCC plan following the forced removal of CCC MP, Hon Kufahakutizwe, from Mabvuku Tafara constituency. He told them he wasn’t aware of CCC plans whereupon they bundled him back into a vehicle and dropped him off close to a local bridge where he eventually received assistance. The hounding and torture of members of the Student Movement must be condemned by all progressive citizens. It’s not a crime to push for improved student welfare, better learning conditions and education delivery that works for everyone.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-268024" decoding="async" height="225" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/vz-at-cut-300x225.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/vz-at-cut-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/vz-at-cut-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/vz-at-cut-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/vz-at-cut.jpeg 1280w" width="300"/> <img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-268025" decoding="async" height="300" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/police-cut-225x300.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/police-cut-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/police-cut-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/police-cut.jpeg 780w" width="225"/> <img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-268026" decoding="async" height="225" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Valentine-Ziko-CUT-300x225.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Valentine-Ziko-CUT-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Valentine-Ziko-CUT-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Valentine-Ziko-CUT-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Valentine-Ziko-CUT.jpeg 1280w" width="300"/>
</blockquote>
There have been an increasing number of reports about the abduction and torture of government critics, including activists from the CCC party, human rights defenders, and journalists. Some of them have been seriously injured, while others have been found dead, like Pastor Masaya, or have disappeared without a trace, as in the case of Itai Dzamara. It is suspected that state security agents are responsible for these abductions.
The government has previously denied these allegations, claiming that the abductions are staged to tarnish its reputation. They have also suggested that a “third party” might be responsible for the abductions to damage the government’s image internationally. Government authorities argue that Zimbabwe is working towards improving its relationships with other countries and cannot risk damaging these relationships by openly violating human rights.
However, some analysts believe that the ruling party, ZANU PF, has little regard for human rights and is capable of torture and killing. This belief stems from the deployment of soldiers who used live ammunition against civilians in 2018. Several other incidents are being used as evidence of ZANU PF’s capacity to abduct, torture and or kill people.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Chinhoyi University Student Abducted And Tortured - Mahere

Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono has reiterated his call for the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) to withdraw from Parliament. He stated that they will only make empty noise in parliament as they are unable to stop the ruling ZANU PF party from making decisions due to their majority.
Chin’ono argues that staying would give legitimacy to ZANU PF’s corrupt rule. Fadzayi Mahere, a prominent CCC member, responded by saying that if instructed by the Citizens’ National Assembly, the party’s legislators would withdraw from parliament. However, Mahere highlighted the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/12/09/ccc-withdrawal-from-parliament-may-be-disastrous-mahere/">potential consequences of withdrawal</a>, such as ZANU PF amending the constitution and creating a one-party state. She also questioned the effectiveness of parliamentary committees and the lack of citizen input in legislation.
Chin’ono remains unconvinced of the opposition’s usefulness in parliament. In a post seen by Pindula News, the journalist said:
<blockquote>
It makes a lot of sense for ZANUPF to want CCC to stay in parliament because an immediate CCC mass withdrawal from parliament will create a massive international political crisis of legitimacy and credibility for ZANUPF and the regime. It will affect reengagement sideshows and international financial debt relief talks. It will also bring back the issue of the sham election on the table, something that ZANUPF has successfully hidden through the Tshabangu fraud by putting CCC in survival mode. Mnangagwa and ZANUPF know that they will immediately become Southern Africa’s North Korea if CCC pulls out! Imagine a parliament with just ZANUPF MPs and a few Tshabangu MPs. ZANUPF is going to bribe anyone who can influence CCC to stay in parliament because it knows that CCC won’t be able to stop anything on the ZANUPF parliamentary agenda now that it has Two-Thirds majority. CCC will be going to parliament just to make empty noises, that is why CCC is needed in parliament by the regime to create a facade of democracy.
</blockquote>
Chin’ono further expressed his belief that countries whose ambassadors have close ties with ZANU PF will persuade the CCC to remain in parliament. He said these countries and their governments would not want to engage with a pariah state without opposition in parliament. They would want to show success back home, so they would encourage the CCC to stay.
In addition to foreign nations’ influence, Chin’ono believes that the CCC will face difficulties from MPs who are primarily motivated by salary, perks, and personal gain, including those using parliament as a stepping stone for international jobs. He argues that few politicians in Zimbabwe’s opposition are genuinely committed to the struggle, and many are more interested in personal opportunities. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

CCC Will Be Going To Parliament Just To Make Empty Noises - Chin'ono

A prominent member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Fadzayi Mahere says the party’s legislators are ready to withdraw from Parliament if the Citizens’ National Assembly instructs them to do so.
Mahere, who is the MP for Mt Pleasant, however, warned that if CCC withdraws its legislators from Parliament, ZANU PF will be able to amend the Constitution willy-nilly and create a one-party State. She wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
<blockquote>
I can assure you that if the @CCCZimbabwe’s Citizens’ National Assembly resolves that we should withdraw from Parliament, we will.
To put the matter to bed, in October, Parliamentarians and Councillors were ordered to disengage from Parliament pursuant to a resolution of the CNA. This was complied with by everyone.
Missing from the discourse, however, is a critique of the consequences of such a withdrawal. Are citizens prepared to hand Zanu PF a two-thirds majority on a silver plate?
Are we aware that they’ll be able to wantonly amend the Constitution including removing term limits for a sitting “President”?
Do we know this means ED could rule for life? What will the withdrawal mean for policymaking? Are we prepared for budgetary discussions to happen under the cover of night with no representation?
Will parliamentary committees be effective if politicians of the same party only are investigating each other’s work?
Will the threat of the whipping system not hamper the necessary oversight function? Would we be happy to have statutory instruments considered in our absence and deemed constitutional without scrutiny?
Are we happy to have legislation passed without any contribution from the citizens through committees or debates?
Are we okay with reports of national institutions being swept under the carpet? Would we be comfortable with Question Time being reduced to a box-ticking, choreographed exercise because nobody is there to ask the hard questions?
Are we happy to surrender to a one-party state? What would be the next step and how will be achieved?
Or are we prepared to fight hard under tough conditions for the citizens’ voices to be heard in spite of the odds?
I don’t know what the answer is but I know that being an MP is gruelling, time-consuming and requires a lot of hard work, thinking and service.
Some MPs can earn in an hour what Parly “pays” in three months. Many sacrifices are made.
May the voice and best interests of the people win as we all work towards a better Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CCC Withdrawal From Parliament May Be Disastrous - Mahere

Citizens Coalition For Change (CCC) Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant), says those critical of party leader Nelson Chamisa’s leadership style should consider the environment Zimbabwe’s main opposition is operating in before passing judgement.
Posting on X, Mahere said that Chamisa has achieved a lot given that he is challenging a “regime… that wants to destroy the voice of the suffering masses at all costs.”
Mahere made the remarks after prominent journalist Hopewell Chin’ono described Chamisa as a failed leader who has been making “schoolboy” errors since the formation of CCC in 2022. <a href="https://x.com/advocatemahere/status/1733050556631883964?s=20">She wrote</a>:
<blockquote>
In a political environment where most opposition presidential candidates failed to even make it to the ballot paper because of Zanu PF’s toxicity and abuse of state institutions, it’s an incredible feat that President @nelsonchamisa did so, shook the system completely and won hundreds of seats against nigh insurmountable odds.
All observers, domestic and international, agreed that the election was a sham.
It’s hard to be a politician in a violent corrupt dictatorship that won’t hesitate to murder members, abduct key players, abuse state institutions to rig and use blatant fraud and an impostor to steal hard-won seats.
They want to kill dissent and have all the state apparatus available to execute their wish. It’s dangerous, thankless and exhausting.
Nowhere in the world has an impostor decided he doesn’t like duly elected members and overturned the will of the people by the stroke of a fraudulent pen.
The depravity is globally unprecedented and hard to relay to those who’ve never lived under a dictatorship.
Simply put, it’s theft and thuggery on full display.
Of course, the room for improvement in any Movement – including in vibrant, mature democracies can never be filled.
However, to blame a leader who is still standing where most have fallen and very many would never dare enter the ring is superficial and intellectually dishonest.
It’s like blaming a victim of sexual assault for somehow causing their aggressor’s conduct instead of condemning the sexual assault.
Think pieces are good but must be aligned to Zimbabwe’s political reality. The regime is anti-people and wants to destroy the voice of the suffering masses at all costs.
Point your guns at those who are destroying democracy, not the ones trying to fight for it.
All this said, those who champion change and a better Zimbabwe will continue to do so – even as the temperature gets hot. This is why it is called a struggle and not ice cream. It’s deathly, lonely and hard.
But as in any boxing match, we keep punching at the regime. We never know which will be the fatal blow.
For the sake of the next generation, progressives who imagine a free and prosperous Zimbabwe must remain in the boxing ring!
Zvese izvi zvichapera. One man once said – never in a thousand years.
Here we are!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Blaming Chamisa For The Opposition's Problems Is Intellectual Dishonesty - Mahere

Mt Pleasant MP, Fadzayi Mahere has castigated CCC’s self-imposed secretary general Sengezo Tshabangu for describing the former Mayor of Masvingo Shantiel Yeukai Chiwara as “a little girl”.
Chiwara (25), a graduate with a BComm (Hons) in Banking, and Masters in Strategic Management student, was the youngest Mayor and the first female Mayor of Masvingo.
Speaking in a recent interview on HStvNews, Tshabangu intimated that Chiwara was not elected as the Masvingo Mayor on merit, but was a concubine of some senior CCC official.
Mahere said Tshabangu’s remarks are an attack on the right of a young, competent woman to lead saying the “disgusting misogyny” should be condemned by all Zimbabweans. She said:
<blockquote>
Disgusting misogyny is on display here by Mr Tshabangu. His defamatory, sexist remarks go beyond politics.
It’s an attack on the right of a young, competent woman to lead and must be condemned by all progressive Zimbabweans.
Mayor Chiwara @Shantiel16 is not a “little girl”. She is a banker who broke an important glass ceiling by being elected the first female Mayor of Masvingo.
Stop scandalizing her. Stop infantilizing her. Stop harassing her for being a young woman.
The @CCCZimbabwe is a movement that has long championed Gender Parity and has consistently stated that it’s a movement #ForEveryone – including young professional women. #16DaysOfActivism
</blockquote>
Chiwara was the sole councillor recalled by Tshabangu in Masvingo in the first round of the CCC recalls in October.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mahere Slams Tshabangu For Calling Former Masvingo Mayor "A Little Girl"

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Member of Parliament for Mt Pleasant, Fadzayi Mahere the new “wealth tax” proposed by Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube in the 2024 National Budget is a bad idea. <a href="https://x.com/advocatemahere/status/1730813036506513448?s=20">Mahere posted on X</a>:
<blockquote>
Of all the problematic announcements made during Mthuli Ncube’s Budget Presentation on Thursday, the wealth tax is arguably the most unsound. The Minister proposes to impose a 1% annual tax on all owners of a house worth US$100,000 or more because they have more income.
This means that the owner of a US$300,000 home would pay US$3000 in wealth tax annually.
The very premise of the tax is fundamentally flawed. In Zimbabwe, not all homeowners have an income.
A pensioner under 70 receiving a US$30 pension can own a home.
A divorced, unemployed person can own a home they attained through a divorce settlement.
A child can own a home bought for them by their parents.
An unemployed 19-year-old can own a home they inherited.
A retrenched person can own a home they bought when they were once employed.
A person can own a home but have lost all their savings or business under one of the three big economic crashes experienced since 2008.
Taxing these people for simply sitting in their homes and breathing is an injustice and offends the constitutional 
principle that the tax burden should be shared fairly. There is no doubt that a “wealth tax” of this nature in a distorted economy like Zimbabwe could never be administered fairly.
Pensioners, non-income earning homeowners and other poorly paid citizens who managed to purchase homes when the economy fared better decades ago persons cannot be described as “wealthy”.
Imposing a blanket tax on homeowners would result in the illegal double taxation on persons who already pay rates and property taxes on their homes, which rates they can in most instances barely afford.
What justification is there for taxing persons twice for water, local clinics and basic services?
Additionally, a wealth tax is difficult, expensive and inefficient to administer. In an economy like Zimbabwe, the immediate question that arises is – who would carry out the valuations, with what money and using which formula? The avenues for distortion and corruption would be boundless.
Imposing this ill-thought-out wealth tax will encourage tax evasion and has the potential to drive away property investors if imposed.
Persons with the means will opt to buy in Johannesburg or South Africa where the tax burden is less burdensome and one can get more bang for their buck.
Property is one of the few reliable stores of value in Zimbabwe’s broken economy where savings are not safe in financial institutions due to unsound and inconsistent economic policies. The proposed wealth tax will discourage property investment.
Moreover, by taking a fraction of people’s wealth each year, the tax reduces the return on investing and discourages saving. This can reduce growth because investing and capital accumulation are critical to innovation.
One can already see that, if imposed, such a tax will distort behavior in a way that is harmful to economic growth and national prosperity.
To put the matter to bed, a person who invests in 10 low-cost houses valued at US$98,000 each will avoid the tax while a divorced, self-employed single mother who was awarded a basic home in Waterfalls upon her divorce will be taxed for being “wealthy.”
The entire Budget is an anti-people mess. Pro-growth policies make sense, by making everyone better off.
Tax gimmicks don’t.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Why Mthuli Ncube’s “Wealth Tax” Is A Bad Idea - Fadzayi Mahere

Opposition legislator Fadzayi Mahere says the 2024 National Budget will harm small businesses after the Finance Minister proposed to reduce the Value Added Tax threshold to US$25 000 from US$40 000.
In his budget presentation on Thursday, 30 November, Ncube said only traders registered for VAT and with valid Tax Clearance Certificates can buy goods from manufacturers.
The VAT registration threshold will be cut from US$40 000 to US$25 000, or the local currency equivalent, starting in January 2024.
Posting on X, Mahere said this will result in a hike in the prices of goods and negatively affect overall demand. <a href="https://x.com/advocatemahere/status/1730463660043129273?s=20">She said</a>:
<blockquote>
The attack on small businesses in the new Budget is staggering.
The Value Added Tax threshold has now been reduced to US$25 000 from US$40 000.
In simple terms, this means that any small business that makes an average of $2100 per month or more will now have to register for VAT.
The impact on small businesses is that they will now have to increase the cost of their goods by 15% to enable them to collect the VAT.
The impact on a consumer is that the cost of goods will go up by at least 15% to accommodate this tax.
The impact overall is that demand will go down because the prices are too high.
Spending will go down and the economy will become even more comatose than it is now.
The VAT tax rate is at 15% despite calls from businesses for it to come down to 14.5%.
In a country where unemployment exceeds 85%, it is grossly irrational to propose a budget that taxes those trying to run a small business for survival.
The entire budget is anti-people. It’s a mess.
</blockquote>
However, responding to Mahere, one Mbonisi Siziba said nothing will change as producers already sell their goods with 15% VAT. He said:
<blockquote>
Manufacturers already sell their goods with 15% VAT, therefore tax is trickled down to the final consumer, nothing changes except that tuckshops will be charging the same prices as supermarkets.
VAT registration will also enable the SME to purchase directly from the manufacturer legally.
</blockquote>
Tafadzwa Marere concurred, saying small businesses don’t have to increase prices by 15%. He said:
<blockquote>
Not quite. They deduct the input tax on VAT on goods they buy so they don’t have to increase by 15%. If they use the same markup they should be fine.
What happens is that they start to have to remit that value added to Zimra. It’s only fair, isn’t it? Maybe the cost of compliance.
</blockquote>
Economa added:
<blockquote>
It doesn’t work like that Fadzi, the small businesses will be able 2 claim input tax on the purchases. If goods cost $10, the input tax is 1.30 which they claim from ZIMRA hence no need to increase by 15% coz the net cost is now $8.70. When they sell for $12 the tax is $1.57, therefore 0.27c tax.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mahere Says 2024 National Budget To Harm Small Businesses

The image of<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala/"> Job Sikhala</a> in leg irons on a hospital bed undergoing surgery has received mixed reactions. Many commentators have criticised the ZANU PF government, accusing it of being cruel.
Sikhala, a former Member of Parliament, was arrested and imprisoned in June 2022 for allegedly inciting public violence during the funeral wake of slain Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist, Moreblessing Ali. He has been held at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison together with convicted armed robbers and murderers since then.
Sikhala’s political party, the CCC, argues that he is a political prisoner who is being punished for challenging the government’s restrictions on democratic rights. Responding to the image, the party said:
<blockquote>
The inhumane treatment of political prisoner and opposition member Job Sikhala by the regime in Harare is a matter that should be condemned by all concerned local, regional, and international authorities. Despite spending nearly two years in pre-trial detention for crimes he did not commit, the regime persists in treating him as a criminal. Shockingly, they even subject him to restraints, such as leg irons, even when he is in a hospital bed.
</blockquote>
Award-winning journalist, HopewellChin’ono, also condemned Sikhala’s continued detention and “cruel” treatment. He said:
<blockquote>
Here is how cruel the ZANUPF regime is; Political prisoner, opposition leader and lawyer, Job Sikhala who has been illegally detained without bail is going through surgery. The ZANUPF regime insisted that he will be in leg irons even when he is in a hospital bed, how evil can one be?
</blockquote>
Self-exiled former Cabinet Minister Saviour Kasukuwere, who is nicknamed Tyson for his combative politics as a Young Turk in ZANU PF, said:
<blockquote>
Highly despicable! What rank madness and cruelty is this?
</blockquote>
Mount Pleasant MP, Fadzayi Mahere, called for the immediate release of Sikhala and also wished him speedy recovery. She said:
<blockquote>
Here’s wishing @JobSikhala1 a speedy recovery as he undergoes surgery today. His continued incarceration despite his innocence is a dark stain on our sense of justice. Bail is a constitutional entitlement. Democracy, the rule of law and freedom of expression, association and conscience are all on trial. What an enormous, 520 day travesty of justice.
</blockquote>
Some more people commented that political power is temporary and can change quickly. They questioned why Job Sikhala was made to wear leg irons and expressed their disapproval. Some people mentioned the concept of karma, highlighting that the mistreatment of Job Sikhala will eventually come back to haunt those who are responsible or their future generations. They believe that the actions of Sikhala’s assailants will have consequences and that they will face repercussions in the future.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Responses To An Image Of Job Sikhala Undergoing Surgery In Leg Irons In Hospital

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere, who is also the Mt Pleasant Member of Parliament, has defended the party’s interim constitution which, according to critics, falls “far below international best practices.”
Article 7.3 of a document that has been cited as the CCC constitution read:
<blockquote>
There shall be a leader and Change Champion in Chief (Adv Nelson Chamisa) who shall be the Administrator and President tasked by the citizens to champion, lead and guide processes of the movement in between sessions of the CNA until an elective citizen convention is held. The Change Champion in Chief shall be the chief spokesperson and chief representative of the CCC as well as the custodian of its documents, property and wellbeing.
</blockquote>
Self-exiled political commentator Jonathan Moyo said it is “unheard of” that a person is named in the constitution of a political party as its leader.
Another political commentator, Brighton Mutebuka said the document reported to be the CCC constitution clearly falls far below international best practices and creates avoidable reputational harm for the party and its leader.
However, posting on X, Mahere argued that the so-called CCC constitution is an interim document that was aimed at preventing the capture and destruction of the party by ZANU PF.
She also rejected claims that the document was written “secretly, by a select few party officials, with minimum consultation”, saying it was actually a product of an extensive nationwide engagement process. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
While the nation quickly slips into a one-party dictatorship, some choose to fake fuss over an interim arrangement that was specifically designed to prevent ZANU PF from robbing us again of the authentic opposition.
This arrangement, the CCC party symbol and the entire birth of the new party were borne out of an extensive nationwide engagement process undertaken across all provinces.
The unanimous position of the citizens was that there was a need to create a brand new party and that this party must have in place shocks to prevent ZANU PF from pulling another Mashavire.
The citizens did not want the state or the system to impose a leader on the opposition. The people wanted their will respected.
The people had the foresight to see that someone would crop up one day and try to steal what was hard fought for and build through blood, sweat and tears by ordinary citizens who simply want a better life.
Zimbabweans need to watch the magician’s hand and not be distracted by an obvious, superficially argued sideshow.
We need to collectively do whatever it takes to prevent ZANU PF from attaining a two-thirds majority and entrenching a one-party state that will see Mr Mnangagwa perpetuating mass suffering and his dictatorial, violent rule.
Zimbabweans want and deserve new, ethical leaders who put the citizens first and centre in governance and decision-making.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Mahere Defends Controversial CCC Constitution

Members of Parliament (MPs) from the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) have criticised the government for its seemingly lazy approach to investigating politically motivated abductions and murders of their party members. This comes in light of the recent <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/14/police-confirm-death-of-tapfumanei-masaya/">death of CCC activist Tapfumaneyi Masaya</a>, who was abducted and later found dead. The legislators raised their concerns during a session in Parliament, where they grilled Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi.
Masaya’s abduction occurred while he was campaigning for the party’s parliamentary candidate in the upcoming by-elections. This incident follows a pattern of similar cases, including the abduction and torture of CCC legislator Takudzwa Ngadziore, as well as the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/10/25/former-mp-for-mabvuku-tafara-james-chidhakwa-narrates-his-abduction-and-torture/">abduction and torture</a> of former legislator James Chidhakwa. These abductions have sparked fear and concern among opposition members, as well as human rights organizations and concerned citizens.
During a Question and Answer session in the National Assembly on Wednesday, CCC legislator Fadzayi Mahere questioned the government’s policy on ensuring that the police thoroughly investigate cases of enforced disappearances and murder of opposition activists. Mahere cited constitutional provisions that oblige the police to secure the lives of Zimbabwean people and guarantee the right to life, as well as protection against torture or cruel treatment. She said:
<blockquote>
Over the last few weeks, we have seen an escalation in abductions, enforced disappearances and unexplained murders. What is government policy on ensuring that the police investigate?
Section 219 (1) (c) obliges the Police Service to secure the lives of Zimbabwean people. 
Section 48 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life and section 53 guarantees that no person may be subjected to physical or psychological torture or cruel, inhuman, degrading treatment or punishment.
</blockquote>
Harare East legislator <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Allan_Markham/">Allan Norman Markham (Rusty)</a> also criticised the police for their biased approach in attending to reported cases, particularly those involving the abduction of opposition members. Markham said:
<blockquote>
When you ask for information, we have the registration of the vehicle used and the names of the people who did it but no one will take the report.
</blockquote>
In response, Minister Ziyambi challenged the opposition legislators to provide concrete evidence and assured them that the government does not condone such acts. He urged them to bring forth any information they have to the relevant authorities for investigation. Ziyambi said:
<blockquote>
We have a policy that informs what the laws must be and we have a Constitution that clearly indicates that we must protect the right to life. We have a Constitution that prohibits enforced disappearances. So, the policy of government is already there.
What is needed is, if there is anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of these individuals that they are alleging ‘abducted’ or did whatever they did, they must provide the investigating officers with that information so that they can investigate fully and ensure that they are prosecuted. The policy position of the government is that we are a peaceful nation. We do not want anyone to be harassed.
If there is anything, it is contrary to our beliefs as government and as a party. If she (Mahere) has information about the non-investigation of that particular issue, I am sure from what she is saying, she has a lot of information and the (Home Affairs) Minister (Kazembe Kazembe) will be glad to listen to that and be able to summon the commanders of the police why they are not taking that information and acting upon it, to ensure that those allegations are investigated
</blockquote>
The issue of enforced disappearances and abductions is not new in Zimbabwe. The abduction and disappearance of journalist and human rights defender Itai Dzamara in 2015 remains unresolved, and there have been concerns about the government’s commitment to addressing such cases.
The CCC leader, Nelson Chamisa, has pleaded with President Emmerson Mnangagwa to cancel the upcoming by-elections in order to protect lives. Human rights groups, as well as the European Union and the United States embassy, have also called for investigations and the arrest of those responsible for the abductions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

MPs Demand Police Action Over Abductions And Murder

Fadzayi Mahere, a Member of Parliament for the Mt Pleasant constituency, expressed concern that people who have been abducted and tortured are scared to report their ordeal to the police. She said they fear the government will treat them like they did with Joana Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri, and Netsai Marova. These three individuals claimed to have been abducted and tortured by suspected state security agents, but the State accused them of faking their abduction and were arrested for spreading lies. The case against them is still ongoing.
Recently, another MP from the opposition party, Takudzwa Ngadziore, along with former MP James Chidhakwa, claimed they were <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/02/police-say-ngadziore-yet-to-report-alleged-abduction-and-torture/">abducted, tortured, and injected with an unknown substance.</a> Ngadziore’s abduction was recorded live on Facebook before he was taken to Mazowe, where he was tortured and left naked.
The public expressed outrage over the incidents on social media. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) stated that they are trying to contact Ngadziore to gather more information about the alleged abduction. In a short statement on X, the ZRP said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP has been keenly following an allegation of abduction and torture on Social Media. The Police inform the public that no such case has been reported. We are trying to make contact with the alleged victim so as to elicit the facts beyond what is on social media.
</blockquote>
Information Secretary, Nick Mangwana, said investigations on all matters including those around the unverified pictures and video clips are also underway. He said:
<blockquote>
 We have been keenly following an allegation of abduction and torture trending on Social Media. We have also been handling a number of Media Inquiries on the same matter. We are liaising with the @PoliceZimbabwe who advise us that no such case has been reported to them so far. They also informed us that they are trying to make contact with the alleged victim so as to get more facts about this case, as currently they only have Social Media chatter to go by. They will issue a more operational statement in due course. Thank you.
</blockquote>
Dr Walter Mzembi, a former Tourism Minister who is currently living in exile, stated that it didn’t make sense for the police to wait for a report from Ngadziore when there is clear footage showing the alleged perpetrator carrying an AK47 rifle. He said:
<blockquote>
Is @PoliceZimbabwe so complacent let alone our security forces that they will wait for a Police Report when there is footage of people marauding with AK47 Assault Rifles in suburbs substituting them in their role unless the only explanation being that they know the people in the footage and it was an authorised operation?
</blockquote>
Former PetroTrade board chair, Tinomudaishe Chinyoka suggested that the said footage was no admissible evidence in a court of law. He responded to Mzembi:
<blockquote>
Ahh, Minister! Footage doesn’t mean it’s a crime, it could be a film being shot. Are you saying the police should investigate things based on tweets? Will we be safe?
</blockquote>
In response to Nick Mangwana’s statement saying police had not received any report, Mahere said the victims were afraid of what happened to Mamombe and colleagues. She said:
<blockquote>
Last time, Joana, Cecilia and Netsai reported their abduction and torture. You guys turned on them. They were arrested and prosecuted for “communicating falsehoods.” The perpetrators went free. This is why we describe you as a violent, corrupt dictatorship that offends the Constitution at every turn. Your call for a police report to be made is not bona fide at all.
</blockquote>
In the past, authorities have made claims suggesting that people who reported being abducted were possibly staging the abductions themselves in order to damage the government’s reputation. They have also suggested that there could be a “third force” that was responsible for carrying out these abductions in an attempt to tarnish the government’s image.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Abduction Victims Afraid To Report Fearing What Happened To Mamombe And Colleagues - Mahere

A fire broke out at the University of Zimbabwe main campus in Mt Pleasant on Friday morning and destroyed the Physics Department block.
Social media platforms were awash with pictures that showed the building on fire.
Posting on X, Mount Pleasant MP Fadzayi Mahere (CCC), who is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology Development, said:
<blockquote>
Earlier today, I received a saddening report that a fire broke out at the Physics Department at the University of Zimbabwe.
Students who were at the scene suspect the fire broke out due to naked wires although the exact cause was not immediately clear.
Students panicked as the Fire Department battled to calm the raging flames.
This tragedy could not have come at a worse time for students who are already reeling under a fees crisis, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate equipment &amp; resources at the State’s biggest tertiary institution.
</blockquote>
The incident comes just a week after another fire engulfed a building at the corner of Cameroon Street and Fidel Castro Road (formerly Charter) in Harare’s Central Business District.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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