Political activist Paddington Japajapa has been sent to prison to serve a two-year jail term after the High Court denied his appeal to overturn his conviction and sentence for inciting public violence during the announcement of election results in August 2018.
Japajapa “made inciting remarks” when he criticised the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and threatened to “cause chaos in the country,” <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/japajapa-starts-serving-jail-term/">The Herald reported</a>. He was found guilty of breaching electoral laws and initially sentenced to three years, with one year suspended. The High Court rejected his appeal, stating that there was insufficient evidence to overturn the trial magistrate’s decision. 
Justice Kwenda rejected the appeal against Japajapa’s conviction and sentence. The High Court found no compelling evidence to interfere with the trial magistrate’s decision. Japajapa was captured in a video clip making “inciting” remarks, which he initially denied but later admitted to in mitigation. The High Court noted contradictions in his testimony and rejected his argument that the video was manipulated by the State. Japajapa’s claim of succumbing to temptation was also considered in the sentencing. Justice Kwenda ruled:
<blockquote>
It does not make sense that the appellant would deny making the inflammatory utterances and in the next breath admit making them albeit innocently. It is either he uttered the words or he did not.
</blockquote>
The High Court found no misdirection and stated that the magistrate court’s decision to impose imprisonment was justified, considering the impact of Japajapa’s inflammatory statements on the subsequent disturbances.
During the trial, it was revealed that Japajapa made inflammatory statements during a press conference over ZEC’s delays in announcing the results of the presidential election. He alleged that ZEC was conniving with ZANU PF to manipulate election results in favour of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The judge emphasised that Japajapa should have known the impact his words would have on his supporters. His actions allegedly led to widespread violence and protests in Harare, resulting in property destruction. The State deployed soldiers and police who fired live ammunition at civilians and killed six people in the CBD. The trial court found Japajapa guilty of interfering with the announcement of election results and inciting violence.
In 2019, the MDC Alliance expressed concern over the conviction and sentencing of Paddington Japajapa. They argued that Japajapa’s claims of election rigging were shared by many Zimbabweans and that politicians have the right to express their opinions. The MDC criticised the government for charging individuals with trumped-up crimes and called on citizens, as well as regional and international communities, to stand against these human rights violations. They emphasised the need for a truly free, fair, and credible election to restore legitimacy and protect citizens’ rights in Zimbabwe.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

Japajapa Jailed "For Inciting" August 1, 2018 Violence

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has written a letter to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to seek clarification regarding a situation of name similarity. This was after it was discovered that a person named Chitembe David from Harare East Constituency had registered to contest in the Parliamentary elections as a candidate for a political party named Changu Chimuti Chakapinda Chapinda (CCCC), which bears a resemblance to the CCC party.
The party inquired if the CCCC party exists and how it was possible for someone to register with a political party that has a name identical to theirs. The CCC has also expressed curiosity about the use of similar symbols by various political parties and requested ZEC to clarify this issue to the citizens. In an open letter seen by Pindula News, the CCC led by Nelson Chamisa said:
<blockquote>
Dear @ZECzim, 
We wanted to inquire whether there exists a political party by the name of Changu Chimuti Chakapinda Chapinda (CCCC). We are curious about the electoral law with regard to the use of similar symbols by various parties. We are wondering how someone was registered with a political party that is identical to our party, CCC. Could you kindly clarify this to the citizens?
</blockquote>
Over the years, Zimbabwe’s political landscape has been marked by instances of name similarity among political parties. Examples include the MDC-T party led by Thokozani Khupe, which was accused in 2018 of using a symbol similar to that of the MDC Alliance party then led by Nelson Chamisa. Other examples include Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) formations such as MDC T, MDC M, MDC 
Alliance, MDC 99 as well as the ZANU Ndonga, PF ZAPU, ZANU PF, ZIM PF, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Citizens Collaboration for Change (CCC), Citizens Convergence for Change (CCC), and Changu Chimuti Chakapinda Chapinda (CCCC).
Political analysts believe that this situation can lead to voter confusion and raise concerns about the credibility of the electoral process. They argue that this is caused by the absence of eligibility tests for political parties, therefore, having a central registry where parties can register and deposit their names, symbols, colours, and logos would help prevent conflicts and enable voters to make informed choices.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

CCC Writes To ZEC Over Case Of Name Similarity

The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) claims that members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) are financially supporting their challenge to the ZEC delimitation report and push for a postponement of this year’s elections.
MDC leader Mwonzora filed a Constitutional Court application last month to annul the report, claiming it was flawed due to irregularities in the process of creating the new boundaries.
The court dismissed the application for lacking jurisdiction. Mwonzora is now planning another attempt to set aside the delimitation report. NewZimbabwe cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
We have prepared our papers and today we are filing our application before the High Court seeking the same relief. We argue that a declaration must be made that the delimitation report is invalid, ZEC must be ordered to redo and that the proclamation must, by the President, follow receipt of a correct delimitation report.
</blockquote>
Mwonzora argues that the delimitation report doesn’t consider recent census data. After Chief Justice Luke Malaba dismissed his court bid, CCC leader Nelson Chamisa criticised Mwonzora for working with ZANU PF to delay the elections. Mwonzora claimed that despite public criticism from CCC, its members supported his legal challenge. He said:
<blockquote>
There are a number of people in CCC who were encouraging me to persist with the application to the extent of offering financial help there.
</blockquote>
The delimitation report has caused controversy since it was released earlier this year. A ZANU PF member previously attempted to challenge it in court.
Mwonzora’s legal challenge faced criticism from some political observers who accused him of trying to avoid a vote. Mwonzora’s performance in previous by-elections has been criticized, and some predict a similar outcome in this year’s elections.
The delimitation report is significant for the upcoming elections because it determines the boundaries of constituencies and wards for the purpose of parliamentary and local government elections.
The report is produced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and is based on population data from the national census. The report impacts the distribution of seats in parliament and local councils, which in turn affects the outcome of elections.
The controversy surrounding the delimitation report stems from concerns about the accuracy and fairness of the boundaries, and the potential for gerrymandering to benefit certain political parties or groups.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

MDC Claims CCC Members Fund Challenge To ZEC Delimitation Report

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Douglas_Mwonzora">Douglas Mwonzora</a>, MDC-T leader, warned party members not to participate in other parties’ activities or risk expulsion. The warning comes amid reports of some members participating in the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate selection process.
The MDC national chairman sent a letter on April 26 warning that members and elected leaders who participate in activities of other parties will be expelled for violating the party and national constitution. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
As such Article 5.10 of the party constitution and Section 129 of the National Constitution will accordingly be applicable.
In such circumstances of breach, membership of the party terminates automatically.
</blockquote>
Several MDC-T officials have participated in the ongoing candidate selection process of the CCC, indicating the party’s declining chances in the upcoming elections. Many members have joined Nelson Chamisa’s CCC, and in Kadoma Central, three MDC-T councillors participated in the CCC primaries to remove the current Acting Mayor, Clr Tendai Kokera, arguing that he was unfit for the position.
In the past, the MDC has recalled councillors and MPs aligned with Nelson Chamisa.
The CCC evolved from the MDC after a <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/22/mdc-to-lose-supporters-due-to-leadership-crisis-mdc-official/">leadership crisis</a> following the demise of founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai and the recall of members aligned with the Chamisa faction.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a>

Mwonzora Issues Threats As MDC Members Participate In CCC Nomination Process

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kudakwashe_Bhasikiti">Kudakwashe Bhasikiti</a>, a former Minister of State in Masvingo, was on Monday cleared of rape charges he has been facing since 2019. He was being accused of raping a 12-year- old at his Moira orphanage in Mwenezi, Masvingo.
The acquittal was granted by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chiredzi">Chiredzi</a> Regional Magistrate Ms Judith Zuyu, The <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/bhasikiti-cleared-of-rape/">Herald</a> reported.
Ms Zuyu cleared Bhasikiti of the rape charge due to conflicting and inconsistent statements made by key state witnesses during the trial. Bhasikiti also denied the charges, claiming that he was being framed as retaliation for ordering some occupants to leave part of his Moira farm.
<h2>Allegations:</h2>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kudakwashe_Bhasikiti">Kudakwashe Bhasikiti</a> was <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/kudakwashe-bhasikiti-arrested-for-rape/">arrested in December 2022</a> facing rape charges.
Bhasikiti appeared before the Mwenezi magistrate Faina Makumbe. On 15 December, he was remanded in custody until 29 December and was advised to seek bail at the High Court. He was not asked to plead during the court appearance.
Bhasikiti was transferred to Chiredzi Remand Prison as his case would be heard at the Chiredzi Regional Court.
It is alleged that in 2019, Bhasikiti went into a room at an orphanage he ran on his farm in Mwenezi. He allegedly silenced the complainant by covering her mouth with his hand, removed her clothes by force, and raped her once. He threatened her with unspecified consequences if she revealed the incident to anyone.
Bhasikiti was arrested by police at Mwenezi police station sometime last year after they received a tip-off about an alleged rape.
Bhasikiti was a Minister of State from 2013 until he was expelled from the Government and ZANU PF in December 2014 on allegations of fanning factionalism.
Bhasikiti attempted to rejoin ZANU PF after his expulsion but was rejected. He eventually threw his weight behind the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/MDC_Alliance" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">MDC Alliance</a> then led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> during the 2018 general elections.
In 2019, Bhasikiti announced that he was <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/kudakwashe-bhasikiti-quits-active-politics/">quitting politics</a> to focus on farming.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former Minister Bhasikiti Cleared Of Rape Charges

The MDC Alliance led by Douglas Mwonzora has rejected the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) delimitation report that will be used for the 2023 general elections, saying it will challenge it by all means.
In a statement dated 08 March 2023, the MDC Alliance said the delimitation report is flawed and is therefore not possible to use to conduct credible elections. Part of the statement reads:
<blockquote>
The MDC and all its Alliance partners on the 6th of March 2023 met at Morgan Richard Tsvangirai (MRT) House to reaffirm election preparedness and foster unity across the broader progressive democratic forces, as the country readies for harmonized elections to be held in the later part of the year.
The meeting totally rejected the ZEC final delimitation report because of its glaring fundamental flaws and resolved to challenge it by all means.
No credible election can ever be conducted under such grossly disenfranchising circumstances as demonstrated in the final delimitation report.
Despite naysayers, the MDC Alliance remains the most formidable, intact and focused alternative to the people’s hope of a truly democratic and all-inclusive leadership.
</blockquote>
On 20 February 2023, President Emmerson Mnangagwa gazetted the names and boundaries of the wards, the House of Assembly, and Senatorial constituencies that will be used in the forthcoming and any subsequent general election.
ZEC handed over the Delimitation Report to Mnangagwa on 17 February before it was gazetted on 20 February.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

MDC Alliance Rejects ZEC's Final Delimitation Report

Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson has said armed police assaulted the wife and daughter of Costa Machingauta, the opposition MDC Alliance Member of Parliament for Budiriro.
In a series of Twitter posts seen by Pindula News, Mahere said:
<blockquote>
⛔️ZANU PF abusing the Police Service have stormed the home of Hon Machingauta where an internal @CCCZimbabwe planning meeting was to take place as we lay out our program of action for 2023. ZRP lorries with armed police &amp; teargas are camped at Hon Machingauta’s home.
🟡ZANU PF will say the tear-gassing &amp; violence taking place at Hon Machingauta’s home as we speak is “stage-managed.”
Murewa last week. Now this?
Varikukwata!
We need new leaders.🇿🇼
</blockquote>
In an update, Mahere said the Chibaya, Machingauta and others were held at Budiriro 2 Police Station. She added:
<blockquote>
We’ve deployed our rapid response team to secure their protection. Armed @PoliceZimbabwe are camped with lorries at the Machingauta home. His wife &amp; daughter were badly beaten.
Why are you beating up his wife and daughter?
This is a special level of cruel.
We need new leaders.🇿🇼
</blockquote>
The CCC party says charges against the opposition leaders are not yet clear adding that they were arrested “for attending an internal meeting this morning.”
CCC, which is led by Nelson Chamisa, a former Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services says it condemns the continued banning of its “internal meetings and rallies by the regime in Harare.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Armed Police Have Beaten Up The Wife And Daughter Of Budiriro MP" - Mahere

The ruling ZANU PF won the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mutasa_RDC">Mutasa Rural District Council</a> Ward 6 By-election that was held on Saturday.
In an update seen by Pindula News, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said out of 2597 registered voters, a total of 1 528 votes were cast during this election. 
This translates to 58.8% voter turnout. Results:
<blockquote>
Regina Barara (ZANU PF) – 1 080 [71.7%] 
Babrah Nyamuru (CCC) – 433 [28.3%] 
</blockquote>
The post became vacant following the death of Councillor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Stephen_E_Kavhuru">Stephen Kavhuru</a> who secured victory on the MDC-Alliance ticket in 2018. 
<div dir="auto">
The MDC Alliance was then led by Nelson Chamisa.
A number of people were turned away either because they could not produce valid identification documents or their names were not on the voters’ roll.
As of 11:00 hours, about twenty (20) and eighteen (18) people had been turned away at Gatsi Primary School Polling Station and at Bvuma Business Centre Tent respectively for not presenting the Identification Document (ID) card, showing up at the wrong polling station and others were not in the voter’s roll, according to the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN), a local election watchdog.
At Bvuma Business Centre Tent, one voter was reprimanded and turned away by the Presiding officer for chanting a political party slogan.
This is in violation of Section 147 (1) (c ) on the prohibition of certain activities in the vicinity of polling stations “without derogation from any other provision of this Act or any other enactment, no person shall, within three hundred metres of any polling station on any polling day- utter slogans”.
</div>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZANU PF Wins Mutasa RDC Ward 6 By-election

MDC vice president Elias Mudzuri has said he will not be contesting for any post at the upcoming congress citing irregularities in the party’s electoral processes.
This comes after the opposition party’s National Council nominated party leader Douglas Mwonzora as the sole presidential candidate at the party’s 5th Ordinary Congress set for 18 December this year.
In a leaked WhatsApp conversation, Mudzuri said he does not agree with the whole process and will only change his stance if the process becomes transparent and democratic. He said:
<blockquote>
Thank you to all members of the MDC family who have expressed their wish that I stand for re-election as second Vice President of the party at the coming 5th congress.
Please take note that I will not submit myself for that election for any position. I will however remain a committed card-carrying member of the party.
I am not in agreement with the process so I stand conflicted to vie for any position until and unless the process becomes transparent and democratic including knowledge of the colligate from ward to province.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment to <a href="https://tellzim.com/mudzuri-slams-mwonzora/">TellZim News</a>, Mudzuri confirmed the development. He said:
<blockquote>
I cannot be nominated by the elite members of the party, nominations should start at the grassroots level.
We are 22 years as a party and that is what we have been doing all along.
I cannot be nominated by my friends, that is not what we do as a party.
</blockquote>
He said will not leave the party but will remain a card-carrying and loyal member of the party. Said Mudzuri:
<blockquote>
I am ashamed of what is happening right now but I cannot run away from the party, I have talked to them and I will continue to talk to them but if they don’t listen, I will remain a card-carrying member as I cannot be part of the leadership which fails to observe the democratic tenets of the party.
I can be nominated for any position in the party and have at some point assumed the leadership of the party as you know when Mr (Morgan) Tsvangirai died, he left me in charge of the party.
</blockquote>

Mudzuri Says He Is Ashamed To Be Part Of MDC Executive

Twelve members of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) have been summoned to appear in court on Thursday 29 September 2022 for <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/11/04/mdc-alliance-activists-in-court-over-attack-on-harvest-house/">violence which erupted at the Harvest House in Harare CBD in 2020.</a>
The accused, who were then MDC-Alliance activists, reportedly destroyed windows and cut padlocks with bolt cutters at Harvest House.
<h2>The activists who have been summoned to appear at Harare Magistrates Court  are:</h2>
<blockquote>
Victor Machavhaira (39), 
Shame Chidzonga (36), 
Mafaiti Mubaiwa (34), 
Angirai Mowotidhi (44), 
Paul Gorekore (39), 
Peter Shonhiwa (37), 
Godfrey Katsaya (26),
 Lloyd Zhou (38), 
Richard Dube (23), 
Onisimo Chaitezvi (32), 
Sign Chanachimweza (31) and 
Washington Dzungwa (39) 
</blockquote>
The 13th member, Forward Sezali, who was then aged 40 at the time of his arrest, has since passed on.
Muchavhaira confirmed to NewZimbabwe.com of the latest development. He said:
<blockquote>
Indeed, the 12 of us, minus the now deceased Forward Sezali, have been served with summons to appear in court Thursday facing fresh charges of public violence. The timing of the matter is curious, particularly so after it had been thrown away.
</blockquote>
At their initial appearance before Magistrate Judith Taruvinga in 2020, the youths were all released on $1 500 bail each and their lawyer Moses Mavhaire then successfully applied to have them removed from remand.
<h2>Allegations:</h2>
The state alleges that on October 29, 2020, at around 10 am, the youths, who were allegedly armed with stones, iron bars and bolt cutters, teamed up within the CBD.
They proceeded towards Harvest House along Nelson Mandela, and while on the way, they allegedly attacked motorists and pedestrians who passed through the area, thereby disturbing the peace and order in the city.
They destroyed the front window panes of Harvest House using stones before cutting the key locks on the screeengate using bolt cutters.
The police reacted and arrested Machavhaira, Chidzonga, Mubaiwa, Mowotidhi and Sezali, while others escaped.
On the same day at around 11 pm, Gorekore, Shonhiwa, Katsaya, Zhou, Dube, Chaitezvi, Chanachimweza, Dzungwa returned to Harvest House leading to their arrest.
Mowotidhi and Sizali had pending cases before the same court.
The incident happened as MDC factions – MDC-T and MDC Alliance, in that order, then led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thokozani_Khupe">Thokozani Khupe</a> and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> were fighting for control over the Harvest House christened Morgan Tsvangirai House.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

2020 Violence At Harvest House: 12 CCC Activists Summoned To Court

MDC-T chairperson, Senator Morgen Komichi, has claimed that the MDC Alliance campaign rally held at Zimbabwe Grounds this Sunday was attended by 62 000 people.

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/13/pictures-mdc-alliance-rally-zimbabwe-grounds-13-march-2022/">PICTURES: MDC Alliance Rally Zimbabwe Grounds 13 March 2022</a></li>
</ul>
Watch the video below for more:
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 640px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="360" id="video-228357-1" preload="metadata" width="640"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/KOMICHI-ON-MDC-Numbers.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/KOMICHI-ON-MDC-Numbers.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/KOMICHI-ON-MDC-Numbers.mp4</a></video></div>
Komichi said the numbers were proof that the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) is still alive contrary to reports peddled by party detractors.
Following the split of the MDC-T, according to Thokozani Khupe’s claims, and the formation of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa, many concluded that the MDC brand had died a natural death.
The ruling ZANU PF is on record claiming that MDC was dead.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

WATCH: Komichi Says 62 000 People Attended MDC Alliance Rally

The MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa has resolved to adopt a new name ahead of the 26 March by-elections.
The party’s National Council met on Saturday and made the resolution to abandon the MDC Alliance name after MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora appropriated the MDC brand and all its variants.
NewZimbabwe.com quoted a source as saying the new name will not be revealed before the nomination court. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The national council has unanimously resolved to do away with the name MDC-Alliance. The open hand palm will now be replaced by the index finger. The national council has also come up with a new slogan.
It was felt during the meeting the new name should not be revealed before the nomination court.
Everybody was afraid that if the name was made public before the nomination court, the party’s enemies might sponsor their people to register the name of the new party with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) like what has happened to previously suggested names.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Chamisa called for a press conference for an “important election update” at Bronte Hotel on Monday afternoon.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/breaking-news-chamisa-to-announce-new-party/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Chamisa To Announce New Party Name

Opposition MDC-T leader, Douglas Mwonzora has said the party was experiencing “very low turbulence which is caused by one person” in an apparent reference to ousted party vice president Thokozani Khupe.
He made the remarks during an Open Parly Zimbabwe’s Twitter space this Saturday. 
Mwonzora recently suspended Khupe pending investigation over a number of issues including indiscipline but Khupe immediately declared that she was the new leader of the party. 
He said the party intends to proceed with its congress as scheduled but some leaders including Khupe want to postpone it.
Mwonzora also said five people from Matabeleland provinces had expressed interest in replacing Khupe as the party’s vice president. He added:
<blockquote>
It appears to me that there was a lot of anger at vice president Khupe’s press conference. In terms of our party, MDC-T, there is no provision for one to declare a split.
The bases of her thinking that I joined another party is that most of our MPs are under the banner of a conglomerate of 7 political parties. I wrote to ZEC reminding them of our position of the name we used in 2018.
When Khupe took over as the president of the MDC-T, she became the president of MDC- Alliance just like what Nelson Chamisa did when he was the president now that I’m the president of MDC-T I’m now the leader of Alliance.
</blockquote>
Speaking during Friday’s press conference, Khupe declared a split of the party into two formations. She said:
<blockquote>
… It is in this vein that today, we, who are gathered here and many others scattered around the country, declare an official split.
There are now two MDC-T formations, one led by yours truly, Dr Thokozani Khupe, who is also the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly and the other who I don’t know who their leader is.
</blockquote>
Khupe said Mwonzora had expelled himself from the party after claiming that he was also the leader of the MDC Alliance.
<h2> More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Mwonzora Responds To Khupe's Presser

An MDC Alliance activist, John Rangano Mupanduki who was allegedly abducted in Bikita barely a week ago has been charged with communicating statements prejudicial to the State. Pindula News presents his cautioned statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>CID LAW AND ORDER DR 06/01/22 BIKITA CR: 25/01/22 EXHIBIT “</h2>
<h2>WARNED AND CAUTIONED STATEMENT</h2>
I, JOHN RANGANO MUPANDUKI, NR 04-173469-D-04, Aged: 29 years, of house number 3455 DUMA Location, Nyika, Bikita Masvingo having been informed by Detective Sergeant Shumba of Criminal Investigation Department Law and Order, Masvingo that inquiries are being made in connection with a case of Contravening section 31(b) (i) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23 “Publishing or Communicating false statements prejudicial to the state” which occurred at house number 3455 Duma Location, Nyika Bikita, Masvingo in which it is alleged that on 7th day of January 2022 at around 0320 hours to 8th day of January 2022 at around 2200 hours I was kidnapped by unknown five male adults make this statement of my own free will. 
While I have been informed that I am not obliged to say anything in answer to these allegations, my failure at this stage to mention any facts relevant to my defense to them may result in a court drawing inferences against me. Whatever I will say in answer will be put into writing and may be used in evidence in court. You are also advised that you are entitled to the following rights:- 
• To appear before a court within 48 hours unless further detention has been authorized by a competent court. 
• Not to be forced to make a confession. 
• The reason for detention. 
• To approach the High Court for an order of Habeas Corpus i.e. an order requiring you to be released, or to be brought before the court for the lawfulness of the detention to be justified. 
• To be considered innocent until proven guilty. 
• To be informed promptly of the charge in sufficient detail to enable you to answer it.
Have you understood the caution? ………………………………………………………….Yes
Wanzwisisa yambiro yemhosva here ………………………………………………………..hongu
Do you wish to say anything in answer to these allegations’ ………………Yes 
Pane zvaunoda kutaura here ……………………………………………………………………….hongu?
ACCUSED’S REPLY IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I deny the allegations Revelled against me.
Signed 
 
JOHN RANGANO MUPANDUKI
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, MDC Alliance has described the development as “yet another case where the regime abducts citizens then prefers criminal charges against them. The perpetrators walk free.”
The state has in the past denied allegations that state security agents were behind the kidnappings.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

"Abducted" MDC Alliance Activist Charged With Publishing False Statements Prejudicial To The State

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) says it does not regulate or register political parties and will accept candidate nominations for March’s by-elections on a “first come, first served” basis.
MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora earlier this month wrote to ZEC announcing himself as the leader of the MDC Alliance, the party led by Nelson Chamisa.
ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba on Monday shed light on the expected confusion when the nomination court sits on January 26. She told ZimLive: 
<blockquote>
ZEC does not adjudicate who has the right to the name of a political party because there is no legal framework that mandates the commission to regulate, deregulate and register political parties.
On January 26 the nomination court will operate on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. ZEC will not respond to letters for clout from political parties over party names.
If politicians want to stop a political party from using a party name or symbol, they must approach the electoral court which determines political parties.
</blockquote>
MDC Alliance spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere on Monday maintained that their party would remain MDC Alliance, at least for now, as pressure mounts from supporters for Chamisa to rebrand. she told ZimLive:
<blockquote>
We remain MDC Alliance until otherwise advised. We have safeguards in place to ensure there is no confusion come election day. The people know who their leaders are.
</blockquote>
Chigumba said politicians were in the habit of blaming ZEC over political name disputes when the commission does not register political parties but only recognises them as prescribed by the electoral law.
Elections will take place in 28 parliamentary races and 105 municipal seats on March 26.
Most of the seats fell vacant when the MDC-T recalled elected MDC Alliance officials, armed with <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/02/full-supreme-court-ruling-on-mdc-leadership-crisis-case/">a March 2020 Supreme Court ruling</a> which nullified Chamisa’s elevation to lead the MDC-T following the death of Morgan Tsvangirai a year earlier.
More: Zimlive

ZEC Advises On How Mwonzora Can Stop Use Of MDC, MDC Alliance

MDC Alliance president Nelson Chamisa has hinted, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/12/24/chamisa-hints-on-new-party-name/">yet again</a>, that the opposition party will adopt a new name as the party gears up for the 26 March by-elections and 2023 harmonised elections.
The MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora said it will use the MDC Alliance as its name in elections, leaving Chamisa’s party without a name.
Mwonzora <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/01/11/mdc-mdc-alliance-all-derivatives-are-our-names-mwonzora/">has gone as far as writing a letter to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC</a>) asking the electoral body not to allow any other political party to use the name MDC or its derivatives in any election as it is their identity.
<a href="https://twitter.com/nelsonchamisa/status/1482563380942675968">Tweeting</a> on Sunday morning, Chamisa hinted of a new party name by referring to a Biblical story of a quarrel between the patriarch, Isaac and the Philistines over wells of water.
The Philistines were jealous of Isaac’s wealth and they claimed a spring he had dug as theirs.
Isaac then dug another well and gave it a new name, and yet again, the Philistines claimed it as theirs, forcing him to move to another place and digging another well and giving it a different name. <a href="https://twitter.com/nelsonchamisa/status/1482563380942675968">Wrote Chamisa:</a>
<blockquote>
WE WILL FLOURISH… Then they dug another well, but they quarrelled over that one also; so he named it Sitnah.
He moved on from there &amp;dug another well, no one quarrelled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, “Now the LORD has given us room &amp; we will flourish in the land.” Genesis: 26.20-22.
</blockquote>
University of Kent law lecturer, Alex Magaisa, a former advisor to the late MDC founding president, Morgan Tsvangirai,<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/01/12/chamisa-advised-to-drop-mdc-alliance-name/"> recently urged Chamisa to abandon the MDC brand</a> and adopt a new name for the party
Magaisa argued that there are some battles that are not worth fighting. That was after the Chamisa-led party had vowed not to give up the MDC Alliance name without a fight.
<h3>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h3>

Chamisa Hints On New Party Name, Again

The National Standing Committee of the opposition MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa met on Tuesday and discussed the “deepening national crisis” and resolved that urgent action was needed to address the crisis. Pindula News presents a statement by the party’s national spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere:
<blockquote>
<h2>COMMUNIQUE ON 11/01/2022 NATIONAL STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING </h2>
On the 11th of January 2022, the National Standing Committee of the MDC Alliance met in accordance with the party’s constitution. The National Standing Committee received the reports of the President and the Secretary-General. The following matters were deliberated upon:
<h2>A. Deepening National Crisis</h2>
1. Political Environment &amp; Economic Crisis: Contrary to the regime’s propaganda that paints a false picture of economic progress, the party expresses concern over Zimbabwe’s multi-faceted governance, economic and social crisis which has manifested in mass starvation, over-taxation, corruption, hyperinflation, 49% extreme poverty, joblessness, wage erosion, poor earnings by civil servants and poor remuneration crisis in the education sector. We condemn the continued implementation of anti-poor policies which will be a matter of the past under an MDC Alliance Government. 
2. Beitbridge Forced Migration Crisis: The forced migration crisis at Beitbridge Border Post is a manifestation of a longstanding crisis of governance in Zimbabwe. While people move from country to country throughout the world, the Zimbabwe-South Africa migration is driven largely by chronic unemployment and extreme poverty in Zimbabwe which are directly connected to the illegitimacy of Mr Mnangagwa’s regime and the nation’s deep-seated governance crisis. We call for an urgent resolution to this crisis.
<h2>B. Agenda 2022 </h2>
1. Agenda 2022 Address: Consistent with our tradition, the people’s President will unveil the Agenda 2022 statement on a date to be advised to give the nation direction and the expectation of things to be accomplished this year. The movement will do the needful to win Zimbabwe for change. The people’s leadership commits to raising the morale of the suffering masses, leading a monumental citizen organization effort and ensuring citizens are at the centre of change as we build the new. 
2. Election Preparedness: The people’s leadership is building a platform for a citizen-based campaign to mobilize for change, do the heavy lifting and carry out intensive preparations as we work to secure 6 million votes in the 2023 election and a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The people’s movement is still standing and we have successfully resisted the regime’s attempt to return Zimbabwe to one-party rule. Zimbabwe remains plagued by an illegitimacy crisis which has tainted all arms of government. Our core business is to secure transformation and change in Zimbabwe by winning elections and forming the next government. We thank the citizens for standing firm in rejecting dictatorship, corruption and injustice. We will continue to be a solidarity movement that practices ethical leadership and puts the people first in all policy-making, political activities and the implementation of our activities. 
3. Voter Registration Campaign, Youth Mobilization Drive &amp; Electoral Reform Agenda: We repeat our call for all citizens to REGISTER TO VOTE. The people’s leadership calls for ZEC to stop the unconstitutional and illegal voter suppression and creation of bottlenecks in the voter registration process. We also call for the delivery of a transparent, verifiable voters’ roll. We call for the implementation of the electoral reforms set out in our Principles for Reliable Inclusive and Credible Elections in Zimbabwe (PRICE) document, including the alignment of the Electoral Act to the Constitution, the demilitarization of the ZEC secretariat, media reform and a transparent census and delimitation process. We call for a “BVR-type” voter registration blitz. We further demand that the national identity document crisis be addressed urgently. The movement has embarked on a dedicated youth mobilization drive to ensure that the young are registered and mobilized to vote and defend the vote in 2023. 
4. Remembering Dewa Mavhinga: The MDC Alliance continues to celebrate the life of Dewa Mavhinga who passed away at the end of last year. Dewa was a champion of human rights and the struggle for a better Zimbabwe. His legacy will be remembered by the many Zimbabweans for whose cause he bravely fought. 
5. The Release of Makomborero Haruzivishe: The MDC Alliance welcomes the release of the people’s hero, Makomborero Haruzivishe whose brave fight against tyranny and repression in Zimbabwe continues to inspire both the young and old. We maintain that he is innocent. It is not a crime to demand a better society.
Fadzayi Mahere 
National Spokesperson
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

MDC Alliance Demands Urgent Action On The "Deepening National Crisis"

Opposition MDC Alliance has delivered its New Year message in which it recapped its major events and campaigns of 2023 including party leader Nelson Chamisa’s tour of rural areas to mobilise supporters ahead of the 2023 elections. The party says the movement is still alive adding that the #RegisterToVote campaign will be enhanced next year to make sure that all eligible people have registered to vote. Watch the video below.
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 320px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="176" id="video-222694-1" preload="metadata" width="320"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/CHAMISA-New-Year-Message.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/CHAMISA-New-Year-Message.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/CHAMISA-New-Year-Message.mp4</a></video></div>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

WATCH: MDC Alliance's New Year Message

MDC-T deputy leader Thokozani Khupe is reportedly having talks with MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa with the intention of joining the party. 
ZimLive reports that talks between Khupe and MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa have caused ructions in the MDC-T which is reportedly planning to recall her from parliament. MDC-T has dismissed reports of a plot to recall her.
MDC-T insiders say Khupe never fully accepted her defeat at the December 2020 Congress which saw her losing the presidency to Douglas Mwonzora. ZimLive quotes an anonymous MDC Alliance official as saying:
<blockquote>
The lines of communication between the Khupe and the MDC Alliance leadership are very open, and very busy.
</blockquote>
Khupe’s growing disquiet opened a flank for Chamisa to woo her back into the fold as he bids to strengthen the MDC Alliance in Matabeleland, where Khupe remains a political force.
Chamisa has also reached out to other MDC founding leaders in Matabeleland including former chairman Lovemore Moyo and the former organising secretary Abednico Bhebhe, who joined him on his tour of Matabeleland South last month.
Chamisa’s spokesman Nkululeko Sibanda said Chamisa wants to lead this country and building a nation is not a partisan enterprise. He added:
<blockquote>
 His focus is to get every citizen to support change.
The MDC Alliance stands ready to welcome all comrades who underestimated Douglas Mwonzora’s complicity and connivance with the regime to frustrate change.
</blockquote>
Khupe’s spokesman Ntando Ndlovu denied that she has held talks with the MDC Alliance. Ndlovu said:
<blockquote>
Dr Khupe would like to place it on record that she has never held any discussions with any party about working together or anything of the sort.
</blockquote>
These reports come after Khupe’s lawyers wrote to the MDC-T secretary-general Paurina Mupariwa on December 6 raising concerns about a resolution allegedly passed by the party’s national council to recall her and her supporters from parliament.
The lawyers claimed a national council meeting held on November 26 passed a resolution “to recall Dr Khupe and others from parliament and local authorities” and that the intended recalls “are due any time.”
MDC-T spokesman Witness Dube said: 
<blockquote>
It is entirely open for speculation why madam vice president Khupe would come out of a national council meeting only to seek an audience with her lawyers about what she calls plots to remove her from parliament.
</blockquote>
He denied the alleged plot to recall members adding that the MDC-T, however, reserves the right to recall members who on various grounds including joining other political parties.
Dube denied the alleged plot to recall members. 
ZimLive reports that MDC Alliance secretary-general Charlton Hwende has been the point person in discussions with Khupe, who has so far only spoken to Chamisa by phone. 
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2021/12/13/khupe-in-talks-to-rejoin-mdc-alliance-as-mwonzora-plots-her-recall/">ZimLive</a>

Khupe Allegedly In Talks With Chamisa To Join MDC Alliance

MDC Alliance deputy secretary-general David Chimhini on Sunday ‘persuaded’ Chinhoyi councillors to pledge loyalty to party leader Nelson Chamisa.
The development has been seen as a move aimed at preventing further defections after the party lost several of its councillors to rival MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora.
The persuasion happened at a meeting for the members of the provincial administrative committee held at the party’s offices in Mzari.
MDC Alliance’s provincial spokesperson Blessing Mandava confirmed the development’s saying: 
<blockquote>
The councillors reaffirmed their undying loyalty to the MDC Alliance led by President Nelson Chamisa. They also pledged to work hard to achieve the six million vote (for the 2023 presidential election).
They went through a rigorous educative and informative session on issues to do with servant leadership and service delivery to the electorate. As a people-oriented party, we are glad that the meeting capacitated the City Fathers to give the electorate well-deserved service delivery.
The councillors have also voiced their displeasure at Douglas Mwonzora for robbing the people’s victory by illegally recalling MDC Alliance deployees.
</blockquote>
NewZimbabwe was told that MDC Alliance is targeting to purge “sell-outs” in various councils who defected to MDC-T which has taken control of Chegutu.
In September this year, the Mwonzora-aligned councillors at Municipality of Chegutu nominated and appointed Ward Six councillor Dadirai Guyo as the town’s new deputy mayor, a development that reportedly rattled Chamisa and his national executive.
Chegutu mayor Henry Muchatibaya, who is also aligned to Mwonzora, said the opposition movement would clinch all political leadership positions in the town.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chamisa-goes-after-sell-out-councillors/">NewZimbabwe</a>

Chamisa 'Persuades' Councillors To Pledge Allegiance

Opposition MDC Alliance has called upon the government to urgently review the education sector saying there is a worsening crisis. Pindula News presents the party’s statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>Urgently Review Crisis In The Education Sector</h2>
<h2>State of the Education Sector</h2>
As the education year draws to a close, the MDC Alliance bemoans the worsening crisis in the education sector. Education is the bedrock of any successful nation yet the regime in Harare has continued to ignore the plight of teachers and schools in the country. Underinvestment in infrastructure, poor remuneration for teachers and a half-baked curriculum are at the core of the crisis. The new curriculum has made ICT a key element of the curriculum, yet 80% of primary and 65% of secondary schools are not electrified. Several students are still learning under a tree, while most infrastructure in rural and resettlement areas is dilapidated. Lack of investment in quality public education as well as poverty have cumulatively affected many children with the consequent high dropout rates epitomised by half the students that have registered to write examinations (Grade 7, ‘0’ level and ‘N level) in 2021 in comparison with 2020 candidates. There is also increased child labour in tea plantations in Chipinge, tobacco farms mostly in Mashonaland provinces, sugar plantations in Chiredzi, and gold mining areas across the country.
While it is accepted that Continuous Learning Assessment Activity (CALA) is important, the hurried nature in which it was rolled out has overburdened the students, teachers and parents. There is therefore great need to increase the budgetary allocation for CALA, develop uniform assessment CALA tools, train teachers effectively on administering CALA, and reduce CALA tasks before its effective implementation. We demand greater investment in quality public education, the setting of benchmarks for a skills revolution in the education sector by blending theory and life experiences and providing life skills that can assist students to function beyond the classroom. 
<h2>Public Examinations</h2>
The credibility of managing public examinations in Zimbabwe is under serious threat because of ZIMSEC’s poor management style. ZIMSEC as a parastatal that runs the management of public examinations must give teachers incentives for invigilation of public examinations in line with the best regional practice. We urge the regime in Harare to speedily resolve the impasse between ZIMSEC and teachers over the issue of invigilation of public examinations. In the interest of enhancing the credibility of ZIMSEC as an examination board it is important to close leakages that have become a perennial challenge.
<h2>Teachers’ Crisis</h2>
There is growing discontent among teachers largely because of the slave wages being paid to them following the reduction of teachers’ salaries from US$540 in October 2018 to the current average equivalent of US$140. There is also a deficit of 60,000 teachers in Zimbabwean schools with the consequent high teacher-pupil ratio. The absence of dialogue and meaningful collective bargaining have worsened the crisis in the education system with teachers systematically receiving salaries far less than other civil servants.
We call for the challenges in the education sector highlighted above to be urgently addressed through resolution of the remuneration crisis, a consultative curriculum review in order to improve and revamp the functional literacy of the Zimbabwean education system, greater investment in quality public education, and accessible and affordable tertiary education.

Evelyn Muzungu Masaiti 
Secretary for Education, Sport and Culture 
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

MDC Alliance Tells Government To 'Urgently Review Crisis In The Education Sector'

Recalled MDC Alliance Mufakose legislator, Susan Matsunga, who once hit headlines for pirating using her service Toyota Prado vehicle, is reportedly failing to pay rent.
The MP is reportedly facing eviction from a Mufakose house where she has been failing to pay rentals since April.
Matsunga also made the headlines this year when her pirating Toyota Prado acquired after entering into a Vehicle Loan Facility Agreement with Parliament of Zimbabwe rammed into a precast wall before the driver sped off from the scene.
One of the landlords of the four-bedroomed house, Taonga Mupoperi said Matsunga’s problems started last year. He said:
<blockquote>
Our differences started last year when she would skip paying rentals. She was also failing to pay bills resulting in the cutting of electricity supplies.
We actually had no serious problems at first as no one relied on the money for survival. It is a family house left by our deceased parents, but we saw that she was now taking advantage and decided to evict her.
</blockquote>
Matsunga yesterday confirmed to H-Metro being at loggerheads with her landlord since April this year when she was given a notice. She said:
<blockquote>
Why would they rush to the newspapers? They gave me notice in April and I was supposed to vacate in July.
However on July 11, I was served with an eviction order and went to my lawyers seeking advice.
I got the house through agencies and a lot of people were now coming to collect rentals. The agency had to step aside leaving the family to resolve its matters alone.
I then approached the civil court, but it was during the height of Covid-19 and we failed to get the necessary response. The issue has just been dragging since then.
</blockquote>
She added that a court last week allowed her to stay at the house for 15 days while looking for another suitable accommodation. 
Matsunga said she is surprised that the house owner handed her another 48-hour eviction notice. 
She said she was not refusing to leave the house but was still searching for suitable accommodation. 
More: H-Metro

Recalled MDC Alliance MP Faces Eviction Over Rent Arrears

The Zimbabwe Election Advocacy Trust (ZEAT), an election watchdog, has strongly condemned <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/11/28/how-do-you-kill-somebody-like-a-fly-chamisa-on-murder-of-mdc-alliance-activist/">the brutal murder</a> of Nyasha Zhambe Mawere, a member of the opposition MDC Alliance.
Mawere who was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/11/28/how-do-you-kill-somebody-like-a-fly-chamisa-on-murder-of-mdc-alliance-activist/">buried last Saturday in Gutu</a>, Masvingo, succumbed to injuries sustained from an assault by suspected ZANU PF supporters during Nelson Chamisa’s tour of Masvingo a month ago.
In a statement, ZEAT described the murder of Zhambe as shocking and barbaric. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>ZEAT COMMUNICATIONS. </h2>
We learnt with great shock about the untimely demise of Nyasha Zhambe Mawere who was abducted and attacked by ZANU PF Youths near Mpandawana Growth Point.
This happened when MDC Alliance President Advocate Nelson Chamisa was touring Masvingo Province in his meet the people tour. As ZEAT we feel it is a public secret that man is born with inalienable rights. These are rights that cannot be given away.
Amongst those rights is the right to life. The right to life is a God-given right which no man can take away except God. The state has no right to take away this right.
Considering the impact of the event as we head towards the 2023 harmonised elections we, therefore, call upon ZANU PF to respect the sanctity of life. We also call upon them to call their Youths to order and ensure the prevalence of a peaceful environment that will necessitate the holding of free and fair elections. 
</blockquote>
The UKinZimbabwe has urged the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to fully investigate the case. Said UKinZimbabwe in a statement:
<blockquote>
Concerned by reports of the death of Zimbabwe opposition supporter Nyasha Zhambe Mawere. Important that there is a full police investigation into this incident, in line with Zimbabwe’s constitution and law.
</blockquote>
While no one has been arrested over the case, MDC Alliance says Mawere’s assailants are known ZANU PF hooligans.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Election Watchdog, UK Strongly Condemn Murder Of MDC Alliance Activist

Opposition MDC Alliance leader, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> Sunday told supporters in Goba areas, Bulilima East in Plumtree, Matabeleland South that “the Zimbabwe we all want is coming.”
<a href="https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-regional-byo-212007.html">Bulawayo24</a> reports that the youthful leader was welcomed by joy and ululation as visibly soaked but happy villagers resorted to music and dance. Addressing the gathering, he said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe we all want is coming. Let us all remain vigilant and urge each and everyone to go and vote for change.
</blockquote>
Chamisa has in recent weeks been touring rural areas to mobilise supporters ahead of the 2023 elections.
He has faced resistance from ruling ZANU PF supporters in some provinces including Masvingo, Manicaland and Mashonaland West where his supporters and or aides were assaulted.
As blockades have been mounted on roads, Chamisa has reportedly abandoned his large entourage and security as they were easy to track and is only accompanied by his aides.
His tours come when Zimbabwe is facing economic and humanitarian and political crises that are characterised by inflation, power cuts and a deteriorating democratic space. 
MDC Alliance believes the state of affairs is almost enough for the electorate to vote the governing ZANU PF out of power in 2023. 
Meanwhile, ZANU PF is aiming to get at least five million votes to retain power.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

"The Zimbabwe We Want Is Coming," Chamisa Tell Supporters In Matabeleland

As of Saturday 13 November 2021, just over US$57 000 had been raised towards buying an armoured car for opposition MDC Alliance leader, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa.</a>
The organiser of the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-peoples-pres-chamisa-replace-his-car?utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet">gofundme initiative</a>, T Basvi, says the drive to buy Chamisa an armoured vehicle was triggered by “countless merciless attacks (on Chamisa) by the ruling party, aided by the government security sector.”
<div>He cites an attack on Chamisa’s convoy on the 11th of October 2021 by a group of suspected ZANU PF youths as evidence that Chamisa’s life was in danger.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The attack left Chamisa’s vehicles damaged and many of his aides seriously injured and hospitalized. The convoy was on its way to engaging the rural community in Masvingo to understand their issues in the aftermath of the pandemic’s 3rd wave. </div>
<div>
Basvi believes chances that violence will intensify during the 2023 elections are high hence the need to beef up Chamisa’s security before any unfortunate eventuality occurs. Basvi added:</div>
<blockquote>
<div>As concerned global citizens, we have come up with this initiative to raise funds for the purchase of an amour plated vehicle as well as security apparel for his safety and security.</div>
</blockquote>
<div>He also said it was clear that the regime wants to continue to frustrate democracy by attacking the main opposition. On 8 November, US$47 000 had been raised via the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-peoples-pres-chamisa-replace-his-car?utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet">initiative.</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></div>

UPDATE: US$57K Out Of US$120K Raised For Chamisa's New Car

Opposition MDC Alliance has recalled two of its own councillors in Bulawayo accusing them of failing to run their respective 
wards.
Deputy mayor Mlandu Ncube (ward 1), and ward 5 councillor Felix Mhaka, are the two recalled councillors.
In a letter dated October 30, addressed to MDC Alliance Bulawayo Central constituency coordinating committee (CCC)’s main wing and copied to party president Nelson Chamisa, the youth accused the pair of dereliction of duty. Part of the letter read:
<blockquote>
We the undersigned Bulawayo Central Youth Assembly CCC under Bulawayo Metropolitan province have written this letter to recall and suspend current MDC Alliance councillors Mlandu Ncube ward 1 and Felix Mhaka ward 5.
This letter is an exemption of our ‘Voice of no confidence’ (sic) in councillors Ncube and Mhaka, and their abilities to run their respective wards which were reserved for the youth quota in the 2018 primary elections. We understand the severity of this decision and did not arrive at it hastily.
</blockquote>
The pair was also accused of forming parallel structures in the party and also failing to achieve anything since their election in 2018.
The youth said they could not continue with Mhaka and Ncube, adding that they had failed to account for the ward retention funds, as well as come up with empowerment initiatives for the youth.
Some party insiders described the move as “child’s play”.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/11/squabbles-rock-mdc-alliance-bulawayo/">NewsDay</a>

MDC Alliance Recalls Own Councillors

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Wednesday said it was monitoring reports that MDC Alliance co-vice president, Tendai Biti was abducted.
Social media was Tuesday awash with messages that claimed that Biti had been attacked and kidnapped by unknown gunmen from his home in Harare on Monday night. Police said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The ZRP has checked with all Police Stations and no report of alleged abduction or kidnapping of Tendai Biti has been received. The Police is currently monitoring the situation.
</blockquote>
The statement is issued after MDC Alliance spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere on Tuesday morning said she had spoken to Biti who seemed to show the effects of exhaustion. 
Mahere said Biti seemed frazzled and said “pane zvirikuitika,” [something is happening. Added Mahere in a tweet:
<blockquote>
He said he had to attend to something urgently but would revert to me as soon as he is able. This is the verified position. Please await further updates from our official channels.
</blockquote>
In another tweet, Mahere dismissed reports that alleged that the party’s secretary-general Chalton Hwende had confirmed Biti’s alleged abduction.
The party’s treasurer-general, David Coltart, said he had spoken to Biti who said that suspected state operatives have been conducting surveillance at his home and law offices during the last few days and he feels “as if he is Beirut”. 
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Monitoring Alleged Abduction Of MDC's Tendai Biti

Scores of opposition MDC Alliance activists were attacked in Zvimba Mashonaland West by suspected ZANU PF activists when their leader, Nelson Chamisa toured the province.
ZANU PF denies deploying the assailants saying MDC Alliance was staging the attacks to soil the ruling party
MDC Alliance said “The perpetrators of these horrific crimes who must be brought to justice are: Leoroy Chagwedera/Chamukanga, Premore Karinga, Benbotta Run’anga, Tineyi Sengere among others.” The party also posted the pictures below.
<img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="670" data-maxwidth="503" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FC7mCCGXsAQM8IT?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/><img alt="" class="media-img" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FC7mCVsX0AEODT6?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/><img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="688" data-maxwidth="917" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FC7mIYoXsAoS9qd?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/><img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="688" data-maxwidth="917" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FC7mLKJWYAUmO3m?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a></h2>

PICTURES: MDC Alliance Activists Attacked In Zvimba

Scores of people were injured when ZANU PF and MDC Alliance supporters clashed after the ruling party’s supporters attempted to block opposition leader Nelson Chamisa from meeting villagers in Zvimba, Mashonaland West province.
Chamisa was in Zvimba West winding up his three-day “Meet The People Tour” of the province.
He has been to Manicaland and Masvingo provinces where bloody clashes between Zanu PF and MDC Alliance supporters have also been recorded.
In Zvimba West Friday, several MDC Alliance supporters were reportedly injured after they were attacked by known Zanu PF functionaries.
Among the injured was 75-year-old Morgan Machingura, who was seriously injured on the face.
MDC Alliance Mashonaland West province spokesperson, Blessing Mandava confirmed the incident. He said: 
<blockquote>
ZANU PF has proved once again that it is a cult of blood-thirsty vampires who always seek to spill blood at every whim and turn.
In a bid to shut out MDC Alliance president Chamisa from accessing former Zanu PF strongholds, they hired and bused militia to Zvimba West where our president was set to commiserate with the family of one of our staunch members who is unwell after losing his daughter, mother, and brother within a space of three weeks.
</blockquote>
Mandava said the rowdy Zanu PF youths barricaded roads leading to the MDC Alliance member’s house with rocks.
He added that the assailants were bused in by one Leeroy Nyamukanga while Lovemore Gumbochuma, a 2008 independent parliamentary candidate who is also a retired British Army soldier, allegedly sponsored the attackers.
Mandava added that the assailants who were visibly intoxicated threw stones and fired catapults without any provocation whatsoever. 
The Zanu PF youths also allegedly abducted Zvimba South constituency MDC Alliance treasurer, Maria Wemba, assaulted and stripped her naked, before leaving her for dead.
She was reportedly rushed to hospital by some Good Samaritans. 
MDC Alliance posted on Twitter claiming tsaying the perpetrators of these horrific crimes who must be brought to justice are: Leoroy Chagwedera/Chamukanga, Premore Karinga, Benbotta Run’anga, Tineyi Sengere among others.” The party tagged the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). 

However, Zanu PF provincial secretary for security, Tommy Mwanza dismissed claims that the governing party had deployed its members to commit acts of violence. 
In an interview with NewZimbabwe.com, Mwanza said “Zanu PF is a peaceful and experienced political party which cannot be naive to that extent.” 
He reiterated the party’s claims that “MDC Alliance was seeking sympathy from the United Nations special rapporteur (Alena Douhan) and was stage-managing violence against its leader.”
Zanu PF youth commissar, Tapiwa Chitate also disowned party youths that participated in the alleged Friday attacks. 
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mdc-alliance-zanu-pf-in-violent-clashes-as-chamisa-ends-tour/">NewZimbabwe</a>

ZANU PF, MDC Alliance In Violent Clash

Opposition MDC Alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa has said he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. He posted on Twitter on Wednesday after his party had earlier that “ZANU PF thugs” had tried to assassinate him. Said Chamisa: 

<blockquote>
THEY NEARLY TOOK ME OUT..
He wants me killed and dead. They want blood and more blood. They missed by seconds because Our <a class="link-complex" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Godisinit" rel="hashtag noopener" target="_blank">#Godisinit</a>. Violence &amp; assassinations won’t solve complex national challenges. I’m (in) Nyanga today meeting the community. Change must happen. The citizens are clear!
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While Chamisa did not mention any name, some believe he meant President Emmerson Mnangagwa after MDC Alliance claimed that the assailants who attacked Chamisa in Masvingo and Manicaland were members of the ruling ZANU PF.
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/10/19/shots-fired-at-chamisas-car-in-mutare-bullet-narrowly-missed-him/">MDC Alliance claimed on Tuesday:</a> 

<blockquote>
Our President s vehicles have just been attacked in an ambush outside Mutare. Gunshots have been fired and a bullet narrowly missed him. The ambush was organized by <a class="link-complex" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ZANU" rel="hashtag noopener" target="_blank">#ZANU</a> militia &amp; State Security agents . 12 cars have been trailing him all over Manicaland since morning …
His convoy has been subjected to endless police checkpoints throughout, with more than 15 between Mutare &amp; Chipinge TownThe desperation of Emerson is palpable He is determined to ensure that Advocate <a class="link-complex" data-user-name="nelsonchami" href="https://twitter.com/nelsonchami/" rel="noopener user" target="_blank">@nelsonchami</a> does not access our people Yet Birchnough, Chipinge, Chimanimani.
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The MDC Alliance claims the attack on Chamisa is meant to instil fear in the general populace ahead of the 2023 general elections. 
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a></h2>

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