Siqokoqela Mphoko said that he did not attend the funeral of his late father, Phelekezela Report Mphoko, to fulfil his father’s wish.
Phelekezela Mphoko, who was Zimbabwe’s Vice President when former President Robert Mugabe was forced to resign by the military in November 2017, died on December 6 in India, where he had gone for medical treatment. He was 84.
Although he was declared a national hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF for his role as a prominent commander during the Liberation Struggle, Mphoko was buried at a family plot in Bulawayo.
Mphoko had told his family that he did not want to be buried at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, which explains why President Mnangagwa did not attend the funeral.
However, the absence of Mphoko’s son, Siqokoqela, raised questions.
In an exclusive interview with <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200036311/mphokos-son-why-i-snubbed-my-dads-funeral">Southern Eye</a> on Sunday at his home, Siqokoqela revealed that he had been estranged from his father for the last two years of his life. Said Siqokoqela:
<blockquote>
I did not attend my father’s funeral as I was fulfilling his wish. He told me through messages and conversations that if any member of our family died, I should not set foot there.
He made his choices, and I made mine. This is why I didn’t attend the funeral.
</blockquote>
He said they had irreconcilable differences and a series of painful events led to their estrangement. The relationship between Siqokoqela and his father deteriorated after what he described as “false accusations” against him, including a rape case for which he was ultimately acquitted.
Siqokoqela had been accused of raping his 12-year-old niece on three occasions at his Hillside home. In October this year, the High Court overturned both the conviction and the 20-year sentence.
Siqokoqela believes the accusations were part of a larger scheme to alienate him from his family and damage his reputation.
He also recounted how he learned of his father’s passing from a ZANU PF member, who called him shortly after the news broke. Said Siqokoqela:
<blockquote>
I wasn’t even aware that he was in India or that he was sick. Nobody from his side communicated with me.
When I got the call, I was confused and had to process the news quietly.
I wasn’t surprised, though. This was the path we had taken as a family.
</blockquote>
Siqokoqela acknowledged that it was unfortunate the relationship could not be mended before his father passed away.
However, he felt there was no reason to attempt reconciliation after his death. He said he remains focused on rebuilding his reputation and providing for his family.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Siqokoqela Mphoko didn't go to his dad's funeral because his dad said not to. His dad, Phelekezela Mphoko, didn't want to be buried in a special place, so President Mnangagwa didn't attend. Siqokoqela was estranged from his dad and had problems with him. They didn't talk for two years before his dad died. Siqokoqela's dad accused him of bad things but he was found innocent. Siqokoqela found out about his dad's death from someone else and was sad they didn't fix things before. But he is focused on making his life better now.

Siqokoqela Reveals Reason For Absence At Phelekezela Mphoko's Funeral

The late Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko’s son, Siqokoqela, did not attend his father’s burial at their Douglasdale plot in Bulawayo on Sunday.
According to The NewsHawks, Siqokoqela’s absence has been linked to a series of controversies, including a family feud over his parentage, business disputes, and a major fallout which led to his arrest last year on allegations of raping his niece, charges on which he was later acquitted.
Siqokoqela has publicly stated that his father and his family—wife Laurinda and two sisters, Sikhumbuzo and Siduduzo—were behind the false charges and his arrest.
In 2018, Siqokoqela and his wife Nomagugu were also arrested for allegedly ordering 15 Choppies Supermarket managers in Bulawayo to unlawfully dispense over US$30,000 cash from their point of sale machines after threatening them with either deportation or dismissal. These charges were also dropped.
Due to these and other contentious issues, Mphoko and his son had irreconcilable differences, leading to a breakdown in their relationship.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Phelekezela Mphoko's son, Siqokoqela, didn't go to his father's burial because of many problems. Siqokoqela believes his family lied about him and got him arrested. Last year, he was accused of raping his niece and stealing money from a store. These charges were dropped. Siqokoqela and his father didn't get along because of these problems. Their relationship broke down because of all the issues.

Siqokoqela Mphoko Snubs His Father Phelekezela's Burial

Former Zimbabwean Vice President Phelekezela Report Mphoko was buried at his Douglasdale home plot in Bulawayo on Sunday, reported The NewsHawks.
Mphoko, a former senior ZIPRA commander during the Liberation Struggle, died on December 6, 2024, in India, where he was undergoing treatment for an undisclosed ailment.
Mphoko’s casket, draped in the national flag, was displayed as family, friends, relatives, and dignitaries gathered to pay their last respects.
Among the notable officials were Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Bulawayo Province; Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Matabeleland North Province; and Sithembiso Nyoni, Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, among others.
Although Mphoko was declared a national hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF and was supposed to be buried at Heroes Acre in Harare, his family said he expressed a wish to be buried at his home.
Recently, another late former ZIPRA commander, Tshinga Dube, had a similar wish, although the government overrode it and buried him at Heroes Acre in Harare. Dube had wanted to be buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo.
Similarly, the late former ZIPRA intelligence supremo Dumiso Dabengwa was buried at his rural home area of EManxeleni in Ntabazinduna, outside Bulawayo.
Dabengwa had told his family that he did not want any government officials at his funeral, and thus Mnangagwa and others did not attend.
Several other former nationalists, including ex-ZAPU stalwart Cephas Msipa, also chose not to be buried at Heroes Acre.
Former ZAPU political heavyweight Welshman Mabhena, before he died, openly said he did not want to be buried next to “corrupt people”, “thieves” and “murderers” at Heroes Acre.
Even the late former president Robert Mugabe, who was ousted in a coup in November 2017, is buried at his rural Zvimba home in Mashonaland West province, as he had instructed his family that he didn’t want to be buried at Heroes Acre.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Vice President Mphoko was buried in Bulawayo at his home. He was a hero from the Liberation Struggle. Although the government wanted to bury him at Heroes Acre, his family honored his wish. Other heroes like Dube and Dabengwa also wanted to be buried at their homes. Different leaders have chosen not to be buried at Heroes Acre. Even Mugabe is buried at his home, not there. Family and government have different ideas about where heroes should be buried.

Mphoko Buried At Family Plot In Bulawayo

Phelekezela Report Mphoko, a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and former co-vice president from June 2014 to November 2017 passed away in India at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.
His death came amid ongoing family tensions and divisions that may persist long after his passing.
Mphoko is survived by his wife, Laurinda (originally from Mozambique), and three children: Sikhumbuzo, Siqokoqela, and Siduduzo, along with several grandchildren.
According to The NewsHawks, Mphoko’s family has experienced discord, particularly between Mphoko and his son, Siqokoqela, who reportedly feels estranged from both his father and mother, as well as his two sisters.
The family conflict appears to stem from issues related to parentage, business dealings, and financial disputes, leading to a history of infighting.
Siqokoqela no longer believes Laurinda is his mother. His father said she is, but she says he has discovered she is not.
Tensions escalated during Mphoko’s vice presidency, particularly over the Choppies supermarket chain, which resulted in legal troubles for Siqokoqela and his wife, Nomagugu, who faced charges of fraud and extortion in 2018.
Although these charges were later withdrawn, the family continued to battle over control of Choppies and associated finances.
In a separate legal matter, Siqokoqela was arrested last year on charges of rape involving a minor relative, as well as for escaping lawful custody.
He pleaded not guilty but was convicted on all counts, receiving a 20-year prison sentence, which was later overturned on appeal.
Despite this acquittal, the relationship between Siqokoqela and his father had already deteriorated irreparably.
Siqokoqela was explicitly excluded from Mphoko’s will, with the Phelekezela Report Mphoko Foundation stating that Laurinda would take over management of the estate, followed by Daluthando (son of Siduduzo) and Sikhumbuzo.
As Mphoko’s body returns to Zimbabwe for burial at Heroes Acre, the family remains deeply divided, with reports indicating that Siqokoqela may not attend his father’s funeral.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Phelekezela Mphoko, a leader in Zimbabwe, died in India at 84. He had family problems. His son, Siqokoqela, no longer thinks Laurinda is his mother. There were issues over business and money. Siqokoqela had legal troubles and was even arrested. He was excluded from his father's will. The family fights continue even after Mphoko's death. Siqokoqela may not go to his father's funeral. Mphoko will be buried in Zimbabwe.

Phelekezela Mphoko's Passing Leaves Behind Family Strife

The late former vice president Phekelezela Mphoko is likely to be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, despite being declared a national hero.
Mphoko, who died at age 84 in India while receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment, was immediately declared a national hero by the government, paving the way for his interment at the National Heroes Acre in Harare.
Many of the country’s independence war figures are buried at the National Heroes Acre. However, Mphoko may be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, according to his family’s wishes.
Mphoko’s former boss, Robert Mugabe, was buried at his rural home in Kutama per his wishes. Mphoko reportedly left instructions to his family that he does not want to be buried at the Heroes Acre.
Family spokesman Ndaba Mphoko confirmed to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mphokos-wish-was-to-be-buried-at-his-plot-in-bulawayo-family/">ZimLive</a> that his brother would be buried at his plot about 10km south-east of Bulawayo.
Ndaba Mphoko said he could not speak authoritatively over the former VP’s repatriation plans from India, as the government declaring him a national hero meant that the duty of bringing his remains home and subsequent burial was now a “dual responsibility between the government and the family.”
He said the family is currently looking to the government to take the lead.
Regarding the burial location, he confirmed the family wants him buried at his plot “as per his wishes.”
Ndaba Mphoko said the government had been informed of Mphoko’s wishes to be buried at his plot in Douglasdale, Bulawayo. He said:
<blockquote>
We will perhaps formally submit some written communication to the government to confirm that there was such arrangement in place prior to his passing.
</blockquote>
Ndaba Mphoko said he was not aware of any reasons why his brother chose to be buried elsewhere other than the national shrine.
The late Mphoko, who was the country’s vice president between 2014 and 2017, is the latest liberation war hero to choose not to be buried at the National Heroes Acre, a cemetery largely occupied by veterans of the 1980s independence war.
Mugabe, who presided over many burials at the cemetery, also chose not to be buried at the National Heroes Acre. Mugabe was buried at his rural home in Kutama.
Other notable figures who chose not to be buried at the national shrine include the late former Matabeleland North governor Welshman Mabhena, who preferred not to be buried there, and Dumiso Dabengwa, a former government minister who later became an opposition politician, who chose to be buried at his Ntabazinduna home.
The late former PF ZAPU stalwart and ex-minister Tshinga Dube, as well as former minister Edgar Tekere, also rejected burial at the National Heroes Acre before they died but were ultimately buried there by the government.
Many liberation war heroes who have chosen not to be buried at the national shrine have felt ostracized by the country’s leaders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former vice president Phekelezela Mphoko died at 84 in India. He was declared a national hero, but he wanted to be buried in Bulawayo, not at the National Heroes Acre. His family confirmed this wish. The government and family will work together to bring him home for burial. Other famous people, like Robert Mugabe, also chose to be buried outside the Heroes Acre. Many war heroes who did this felt excluded by the country's leaders. Mphoko's family wants his wishes to be respected.

"Mphoko Asked To Be Buried Away From National Heroes Acre"

The death of Liberation War stalwart and former Vice President, Report Phekelezela Mphoko, in India on Friday serves as a stark reminder of the monumental leadership failure in Zimbabwe.
These are the sentiments expressed by Farai Maguwu, the founding Director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG).
Posting on X, Maguwu pointed out that Zimbabwe is one of the few countries in the world where leaders seek treatment abroad and often die overseas because they have failed to invest public funds into the country’s healthcare system.
Maguwu lamented that instead of prioritising the health sector, the country’s ruling establishment continues to spend state finances on schemes aimed at retaining power. He wrote:
<blockquote>
The death of Mphoko in India reminds us of the monumental leadership failure in Zimbabwe. We are one of the few countries in the world with leaders who seek treatment and die abroad because instead of investing in their health sector they rob their own countries, and spend public resources on cars, power retention schemes, repression and perennial puberty.
As Chivhayo splashes stolen money on cars, hospitals have no drugs, health professionals are demoralized, and hospitals are run down. What does Wicknell produce that earns him so much money?
When Zim rulers get sick they steal money and hire private jets to foreign lands (SA, China &amp; India), having spent few minutes in the VVVVIP lounge at the airport – forgetting that they have 16 million people to whom life and death depend on their decisions.
When shall these people learn that even where they go for treatment they are laughed at as dumb and criminals who steal from their own people to save their own lives and yet they are expected to make decisions that benefit them, their families and their fellow compatriots together?
By the way, they love Dubai &amp;Qatar, don’t they? Haven’t they seen that there is a state-of-the-art hospital in Dubai and Qatar in almost every square mile &amp; the Emiratis and Qataris are now the envy of the whole world – thanks to their leaders? Nations Rise or Fall on LEADERSHIP!
They go to SA, India and China for treatment and yet we have never seen leaders or citizens of those countries coming to Harare for treatment.
Why? Is it an admission we are a nation of jokers &amp; rulers who know very well if they want serious treatment they must look elsewhere?
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Vice President Mphoko died in India, showing how leaders in Zimbabwe fail their country. They spend public money on cars and power instead of healthcare. Hospitals lack drugs and professionals because of this. Leaders go abroad for treatment but are laughed at for stealing from their own people. Other countries like Dubai and Qatar have great hospitals because their leaders invest in healthcare. Zimbabwe's leadership failure is causing harm to its people. Nations rise or fall based on their leaders' actions. Leaders need to prioritize healthcare for their citizens.

Mphoko's Death In India A Grim Reminder Of Leadership Failure In Zimbabwe - Maguwu

The ZANU PF Politburo has accorded late former Vice President Phekelezela Mphoko national hero status.
Mphoko was Zimbabwe’s co-vice president from June 2014 to November 2017 when then President Robert Mugabe was overthrown by the military in a coup that installed incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mphoko was appointed Vice-President on 10 2014, replacing John Landa Nkomo, who died in 2013.
Mphoko died aged 84 on Friday afternoon after a long illness.
He had been battling an undisclosed illness and died while undergoing treatment in India. His wife Laurinda was by his side, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/former-vice-president-mphoko-dies-at-84/">ZimLive</a>.
Born on June 11, 1940, at Gwizane in Bubi District, Matabeleland North, Mphoko was one of the few surviving former ZPRA commanders who executed the armed struggle. He was known by his liberation war name, Report.
Mphoko was arrested in 1963 for political violence after confronting a Rhodesian police officer who had unleashed a dog on him and fellow youths. He was sentenced to three years in jail and sent to Khami Prison.
He was a delegate at the 1963 Cold Comfort Farm People’s Caretaker Council Congress, where a Special Affairs Department was created to oversee the external wing of ZAPU that would direct the armed struggle.
Mphoko was selected by ZAPU leader Joshua Nkomo to undergo military training under the Special Affairs program, alongside Albert Nxele, Walter Mbambo, and Sam Dumaza Mpofu. In April 1964, he left Zimbabwe and trained in the Soviet Union from May 1964 to February 1965.
In March 1965, Mphoko established the first military command structure, the Military Planning Committee, to coordinate the armed struggle.
He was among the first seven commanders tasked with recruiting, training, and leading Zimbabweans in the liberation movement.
In 1967, Mphoko became a member of the Joint Military Command, overseeing Logistics and Supply in the ANC/ZAPU Alliance.
He played a significant role in the Wankie operations and worked with South African freedom fighters like Joe Modise and Chris Hani.
In 1967 and 1968, Mphoko operated in Sipolilo (now Guruve) with fellow leaders such as Modise, Abraham Nkiwane, and Dumiso Dabengwa.
In 1976, Mphoko was a delegate at the formation of the Patriotic Front in Maputo, Mozambique, alongside leaders like Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo, George Silundika, and Joseph Msika.
In 1977, Mphoko attended the OAU Adhoc Committee of Foreign Ministers in Luanda, Angola, with Msika and Silundika.
Mphoko was a military delegate at the 1979 Lancaster House Peace Talks.
In 1980, Mphoko was appointed as Special Envoy for Joshua Nkomo to several foreign leaders, including President Samora Machel of Mozambique and President Fidel Castro of Cuba.
Mphoko served on the sub-committee that designed the national flag of Zimbabwe in 1981.
Mphoko worked in the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare as Deputy Director for Demobilisation in 1981.
In 1987, he moved to diplomatic service, first serving in Mozambique and later as Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Austria in 1996, overseeing the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation.
Mphoko also served as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Botswana, Russia and South Africa.
Under Mugabe’s leadership, Mphoko was appointed to head the Ministry of National Healing, Peace and Reconciliation.
On July 6, 2015, Mugabe also tasked Mphoko with overseeing the coordination and implementation of key policies within his government.
Mphoko is survived by his wife, Laurinda, their three children — Sikhumbuzo, Siduduzo, and Siqokoqela — as well as several grandchildren.
Family member Velile Mphoko confirmed on Friday that the former Vice-President’s wife and children were in Dubai and are making arrangements to return home.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Phekelezela Mphoko was a hero in Zimbabwe and was given a special status when he died. He was a important leader in the country and fought for freedom many years ago. He was also a Vice-President and ambassador to many countries. He helped create important policies and national symbols for Zimbabwe. He was a strong and influential leader who made a big impact on the country. He passed away at the age of 84 and is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Phekelezela Mphoko Declared A National Hero

Zimbabwe’s former Vice President, Phelekezela Mphoko, has passed away after a long illness at the age of 84.
The news of his death was confirmed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, who did not disclose the specifics of the illness.
In a condolence message, President Mnangagwa expressed his sorrow, acknowledging Mphoko as one of the early architects of Zimbabwe’s Liberation Struggle.
Mphoko later transitioned to a diplomatic career and served as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Russia, among other things, following the country’s independence.
Below is Mnangagwa’s condolence message:
<blockquote>
<h2>Condolence Message by His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, following the passing on of Ambassador Report Phelekezela Mphoko, former Vice President of Zimbabwe.</h2>
I learnt this afternoon with a deep sense of grief and sadness of the passing on of our former Vice President, Ambassador Report Phelekezela Mphoko, after a long illness.
A veteran of our Liberation Struggle, Cde Mphoko’s political and military history coincides with the early days of militant nationalism against white settler colonialism which later morphed into the armed Liberation Struggle of which he was among its early architects, brave fighters and crop of formative and outstanding commanders.
With his sad departure, our Nation has lost yet another stalwart of the Liberation Struggle whose contribution to our hard-won Independence can hardly be overstated.
Trained in many countries, including in the then Soviet Union, Cde Mphoko specialised in logistics, an onerous and sensitive responsibility which ensured huge consignments of assortments of arms of war were moved to different bases in the rear, and to the war front inside the country, in order to maintain the momentum of the Armed Liberation Struggle and to exert ever mounting pressure on the settler regime until final victory.
A versatile cadre, Cde Mphoko would later join ZAPU’s liaison department, a role which took him to Maputo, Mozambique, where the then ZANU was headquartered.
We worked very closely with him, in the process laying groundwork and anticipating the eventual convergence of the two liberation movements into the Patriotic Front.
It was this early exposure to diplomacy, moulded in the crucible of the Liberation Struggle which prepared him for his long career in the diplomatic service after our Independence.
It was an illustrious career which peaked with his appointment as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to various key countries, including the Russian Federation.
His appointment as Vice President of our Nation was both deserved and consistent with his sacrifice and long service to his people who today grieve and mourn his untimely departure.
After his service in Government, he continued to work with the Party, including lending his unqualified support to our most recent Harmonised Elections held in 2023.
On behalf of the Party ZANU PF, Government, my Family and on my behalf, I wish to express my deepest, heartfelt condolences to the Mphoko Family, especially to Mrs Mphoko and the children, on this their saddest loss.
As they go through the motions of grief, may they derive solace from the knowledge that we mourn and stand with them in this darkest hour, always recalling with awe and admiration the huge and selfless contribution which Cde Mphoko made towards Zimbabwe’s Independence and subsequent development after 1980.
In recognition of his meritorious role of service to his country, both before and after Independence, the ZANU PF Politburo has unanimously decided and agreed to celebrate and immortalise his life of sacrifice by according him the Status of National Hero.
May his dear Soul rest in eternal peace.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko from Zimbabwe has passed away at the age of 84. The President's spokesman confirmed the sad news. The reason for his death has not been shared yet.

Former Vice President, Phelekezela Mphoko, Has Died

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko on Sunday made a rare public appearance when he attended a ZANU PF rally held at Nkayi Business Centre.
He was among several senior ZANU PF officials who were expelled from the party on allegations of engaging in activities meant to destabilise the Government in 2017.
ZANU PF also recalled Mphoko from the position of Vice President and Second Secretary over allegations of being divisive, a member of the G40 cabal, protecting criminals, preaching hate speech, and behaving in a manner inconsistent with the Office and decorum of the VP.
He was recalled on the day the party also recalled the late former President Robert Mugabe from the position of party First Secretary.
Since he was forced out of Government and the ruling party, Mphoko has not been seen at public events and yesterday it was his first time to appear at a ZANU PF event.
Addressing the ZANU PF supporters who had been bussed to the rally, President Emmerson Mnangagwa acknowledged Mphoko’s presence, saying he was grateful to him for attending the event. He said:
<blockquote>
Former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko is here. Undoda lo sakhula sonke siyazana, sasisenza izinto ezinengi kodwa angisoze ngazikhuluma. Ngiyabonga ukuthi namhla ubuye ngapha to support me. I am very grateful he came to support me.
</blockquote>
Mphoko, however, was wearing neither ZANU PF regalia nor a scarf but was clad in casual safari wear.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mphoko Makes Rare Public Appearance, Attends ED Rally In Nkayi

Former Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko/">Phelekezela Mphoko</a>‘s son, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Siqokoqela_Mphoko/">Siqokoqela</a>, who was serving a <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/05/04/former-vp-mphokos-son-sentenced-to-20-years-in-prison/">20-year jail term</a> for three counts of raping his 12-year-old niece and escaping lawful custody, has been granted ZWL$200k bail pending appeal by the Bulawayo High Court.
The State did not oppose the bail application, acknowledging that Mphoko has prospects of success on appeal against his conviction.
Mphoko’s legal representative, Thabekhulu Dube of Ncube and Partners, made the bail application.
Mphoko was convicted in early May and he <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/05/16/former-vp-mphokos-son-files-appeal-against-20-year-rape-sentence/">filed an appeal</a> against his 20-year jail sentence for three counts of rape and escaping lawful custody. The appeal was submitted to the High Court of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo by Siqokoqela’s lawyer, Mr Zibusiso Ncube. The appeal claims that the trial had numerous inconsistencies.
The sentence was imposed by <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Bulawayo Regional Magistrate</a>, Mr Elijah Singano, who found Siqokoqela guilty of violating the law by raping, threatening and betraying the trust of the victim’s family. Each count attracted a 10-year jail term, and Magistrate Singano imposed an effective sentence of 20 years for all three counts because sentencing Mphoko to 30 years for each count would be too harsh. Siqokoqela was <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/31/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">arrested</a> in August last year and fled from <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/09/01/former-vp-mphokos-son-remanded-in-custody-over-rape/">police custody.</a>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News </a></h3>

Former VP Mphoko's Son Granted Bail Pending Appeal In Rape Case

Siqokoqela Mphoko, son of former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, has filed an appeal against his <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/05/04/former-vp-mphokos-son-sentenced-to-20-years-in-prison/">20-year jail sentence</a> for three counts of rape and escaping lawful custody.
The appeal was filed with the High Court of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo on Tuesday.
Siqokoqela’s lawyer, Mr Zibusiso Ncube, filed the appeal, claiming that the trial had many inconsistencies.
The sentence was handed down by Bulawayo Regional Magistrate, Mr Elijah Singano, who stated that Siqokoqela had violated the law by raping, threatening, and betraying the trust of the victim’s family.
The magistrate sentenced Siqokoqela to an effective 20 years, as each count attracted a 10-year jail term. Magistrate Singano agreed that all three rape counts should be treated as one. He ruled that sentencing Mphoko to 30 years for each count would be too harsh, so he imposed an effective sentence of 20 years for all three counts
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/31/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">Siqokoqela was arrested in August last year.</a> Following his arrest, Siqokoqela Mphoko, who introduced himself as a praying, God-fearing, and family man, fled from <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/09/01/former-vp-mphokos-son-remanded-in-custody-over-rape/">police custody</a>.
He later announced that he fled from the police station because he felt the investigation was unfair and influenced by outside forces. He said he was handing himself to the police because he believes in the judiciary system. He thanked his supporters and asked for their prayers.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former VP Mphoko's Son Files Appeal Against 20-year Rape Sentence

Former Vice President (VP) Phelekezela Mphoko’s son, Siqokoqela, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for three rape charges and two months for disobeying a court order.
The ruling was made by Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Elijah Singano, who determined that the victim’s constitutional rights were violated during the assaults. Singano said while delivering his ruling:
<blockquote>
Rape remains an extremely serious offence and offenders must be punished. It violates and demoralises the victim. The criminal law and codification act stipulates that for an offence such as rape the courts should issue a sentence of life imprisonment or less.
</blockquote>
Magistrate Singano noted that the age gap between Mphoko and the victim was significant, indicating his lack of morality. Siqokoqela threatened the victim with death if she disclosed the rape, and as she lived in his house, she trusted him as a father figure, which he violated. Singano emphasized that the court must act in the child’s best interests, as the victim’s constitutional rights to privacy, good health, education, and dignity were all violated, with long-lasting effects on the minor.
Magistrate Singano agreed that all three rape counts should be treated as one. He ruled that sentencing Mphoko to 30 years for each count would be too harsh, so he imposed an effective sentence of 20 years for all three counts, plus two months for contravening a court order. Mphoko’s lawyer argued for a lesser sentence due to his client’s medical condition and family situation. The prosecutor argued that the victim would suffer lifelong psychological effects from the assault and that Mphoko violated her right to privacy.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/31/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">Siqokoqela was arrested in August last year.</a> Following his arrest, Siqokoqela Mphoko, who introduced himself as a praying, God-fearing, and family man, fled from <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/09/01/former-vp-mphokos-son-remanded-in-custody-over-rape/">police custody</a>.
He later announced that he fled from the police station because he felt the investigation was unfair and influenced by outside forces. He said he was handing himself to the police because he believes in the judiciary system. He thanked his supporters and asked for their prayers.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former VP Mphoko's Son Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Siqokoqela_Mphoko">Siqokoqela Mphoko</a>, the son of former Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko">Phelekezela Mphoko</a>, has urged Zimbabweans to vote for the ruling ZANU PF in the harmonised elections scheduled for this year. 
In a series of Twitter posts seen by Pindula News, Mphoko equated voting for ZANU PF to voting for peace, economic freedom and  unity. We present the thread under #VoteZanuPf:
<blockquote>
Zimbabweans there’s nothing in this world that’s better than having peace, unity God’s grace, political and economic freedom. If we learn to tolerate one another, disagree with one another, respect one another views, be patriotic and learn to respect our leaders.
People in Byo, if you want to see proper services delivered in your city, then vote for individuals who can deliver on their mandates. Stop voting on tribal grounds or for deadwood councillors without merit for it leads Byo nowhere. Zw is United, not Divided.
Since Zim became independent, there’s only been one ZanuPf. Since MDC was formed, I have lost count of how many times its top ten have split that party into pizza slices. Today it’s the CCC. After they lose elections it will be CCC-N, CCC-B, CCC-N, CCC-C.
</blockquote>
Siqokoqela Mphoko, an entrepreneur, and non-executive director of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Choppies_Zimbabwe" title="Choppies Zimbabwe">Choppies Zimbabwe,</a> was in the news in September last year when he was arrested and charged with <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">raping his 12-year-old niece.</a>
He <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">escaped from lawful custody</a> but later surrendered himself to the police saying “ran away from the police station because I felt that there was no fairness in my case. I felt that things were not done properly and I felt that there was a hand behind it that is not Government. I believe in the judiciary system, so now I’m on my way to Hillside Police Station to hand myself in as we speak.”
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Son Of Former VP Mphoko Urges Zimbabweans To Vote For ZANU PF

Former Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko">Phelekezela Mphoko</a>’s son <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Siqokoqela_Mphoko">Siqokoqela</a> was Thursday remanded in custody when he appeared at Bulawayo magistrates court facing allegations of <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/31/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">raping his 12-year-old niece</a> as well as <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/31/former-vp-mphokos-son-arrested-over-rape/">escaping from lawful custody following his arrest on Tuesday.</a>
Mphoko (44) appeared before Regional Magistrate Mark Dzira and he was remanded in custody.
He will return to court on September 15, 2022, for court proceedings, according to the <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/mphoko-in-court-for-rape-remanded-in-custody/">Sunday News</a>.
<h2>Accusations:</h2>
Prosecutor Mr Acumen Khupe who was representing the state alleges that sometime from May to August 2022, Mphoko unlawfully and intentionally had sexual intercourse with his niece aged 12 years (name withheld) thrice without her consent knowing that she had not consented to it or realising the real risk or possibility that she might not have consented to it.
Mphoko is also charged with escaping from lawful custody.
The court heard through prosecutor Khuphe that on 30 August 2022, at around 1630 hours and at ZRP Hillside Charge Office, Mphoko was arrested and brought to the charge office for the crime of rape by Assistant Inspector Admire Donha.
Whilst in the charge office he was booked for detention under ZRP Hillside detention book reference number 284/22 and he had signed for his belongings for detention. Said Mr Khupe:
<blockquote>
The accused person requested to get his medication from his motor vehicle which was parked outside the charge office, before he could be taken to the police cells for detention. The accused person was escorted by Constable Chimuka to his motor vehicle, he however jumped into his vehicle and he sped off to unknown destination.
</blockquote>
<h2>He denies the allegations:</h2>
Siqokoqela Mphoko who was represented by Mr Thabekhulu Dube of Ncube and Partners Legal Practitioners later surrendered himself to the police saying he had fled from the police station “because I felt that there was no fairness in my case. I felt that things were not done properly and I felt that there was a hand behind it that is not Government.”
He said he was back because he had faith in the judiciary system.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Former VP Mphoko's Son Remanded In Custody Over Rape

The son of Zimbabwe’s former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko has been arrested by police in Bulawayo on rape charges.
Mr Siqokoqela Mphoko is expected to appear in court this afternoon to face the rape allegations, according to national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi. He told <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/ex-vp-mphokos-son-arrested/">the Chronicle</a>:
<blockquote>
Siqokoqela Mphoko was this morning arrested by police in Bulawayo and will appear in court today. He was arrested over rape charges and that is all we can release as information.
</blockquote>
Earlier this morning, Mr Mphoko was posted online through a video on Ezra Tshisa Sibanda’s Facebook page saying he was handing himself over to police after running away yesterday. He said 
<blockquote>
Good morning to everybody, my name is Siqokoqela Mphoko. A praying man, a God-fearing man and a family man. Today… Yesterday actually, I was called to the Hillside Police Station and a rape charge laid against me. No investigations were done, but that’s still fine. Yesterday, I ran away from the police station because I felt that there was no fairness in my case. I felt that things were not done properly and I felt that there was a hand behind it that is not Government.
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-236858" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_236858" style="width: 300px"><img alt="Former VP Mphoko's Son Arrested Over Rape" class="wp-image-236858 size-medium" decoding="async" height="181" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Siqokoqela-Mphoko-300x181.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Siqokoqela-Mphoko-300x181.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Siqokoqela-Mphoko-768x463.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Siqokoqela-Mphoko.jpeg 780w" width="300"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-236858">Siqokoqela Mphoko accused of rape</figcaption></figure>
I believe in the judiciary system, so now I’m on my way to Hillside Police Station to hand myself in as we speak. I’m asking for your prayers and I’m asking for your support. I thank you for your love and your understanding. Thank you, God bless, you.
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-68600" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_68600" style="width: 300px"><img alt="Former VP Mphoko's Son Arrested Over Rape" class="size-medium wp-image-68600" decoding="async" height="241" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/siqokoqela-mphoko-300x241.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/siqokoqela-mphoko-300x241.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/siqokoqela-mphoko-600x482.jpg 600w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/siqokoqela-mphoko.jpg 640w" width="300"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-68600">Siqokoqela Mphoko accused of rape</figcaption></figure></blockquote>
Mphoko indicated that he was being accused of raping his 12-year-old niece.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Former VP Mphoko's Son Arrested Over Rape

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko’s son, Siqokoqela, has defended his father’s one-and-a-half-year stay in a hotel at taxpayers’ expense.
Mphoko stayed in a hotel for more than a year after he was appointed Vice President by the late former president Robert Mugabe in 2014.
Siqokoqela said the arrangement allowed the government to save a lot of money for taxpayers as his father didn’t have a maid, a lot of security, and electricity bills among other expenses.
He was speaking during an online programme, This Morning on Asakhe, hosted by CITE on Twitter Space on Monday. Siqokoqela said:
<blockquote>
Well, look when I used to go up to Harare I would meet him at the Rainbow Towers so but that was a government-owned hotel.
Having stayed in a hotel now, how much does it cost for him to stay in one room? Do you think this man never wanted to walk out in a garden?
You think he didn’t want to breathe the fresh air, he didn’t want to be on the top floor or something, so that’s no. He was at a hotel.
He stayed in a hotel for about a year and a half or something while they were looking for suitable accommodation for him.
</blockquote>
He said his father had offered to go and stay in his house in Mount Pleasant. Added Siqokoqela:
<blockquote>
But look how much it cost? He actually saved a lot of money for the taxpayers.
The government actually saved a lot of money for taxpayers while he was taking a hotel because he didn’t have a maid, he didn’t have that security around him.
If he stayed in a mansion, you would pay 10 times more than the electricity bills.
</blockquote>
A listener identified as Douglas Mandaza said Siqokoqela was justifying the Government’s profligacy because his father is still benefiting from the system. Said Mandaza:
<blockquote>
His father probably benefited; he is not going to say much. He probably benefited from the new government.
That’s why he still has the security. That’s why he still has the vehicles from the government.
So if he’s eating, you will probably be quiet. Hence he’s coming in here and justifying what the government is doing.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/zimbabweans-blast-mphokos-son-for-defending-zanu-pf-profligacy/">CITE</a></h4>

Mphoko's Son Defends Dad's Profligacy When He Was Vice President

The magistrate’s court has ruled that former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko must stand trial on amended charges.
Mphoko had sought to have the criminal abuse of office charges against him dismissed arguing that he had no power to give orders to the police.
Harare magistrate Mr Trynos Hutawashe dismissed Mphoko’s application to drop the charges adding that trial should proceed. Hutahwashe said:
<blockquote>The accused must stand trial on condition that the State should amend its charges.
He was not an ordinary civilian. He was known by all Zimbabweans and would act as the President when the President was not around. The officer-in-charge at the police station held a junior position to his, and that argument that he had no power to give orders cannot be allowed.</blockquote>
The state alleges that Mphoko visited Harare’s Avondale Police Station where he ordered junior police officers to release from custody of two Zinara bosses – then board member Davison Norupiri and acting chief executive officer Moses Juma who had been arrested for criminal abuse of office.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mphoko-must-stand-trial-court-rules/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a>

Court Rules Former VP Mphoko Must Stand Trial On Amended Charges

WATCH: VP Mphoko Features In Daughter's Cooking Show

Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Welshman_Ncube">Welshman Ncube</a> has responded to the former Vice President and his son’s lawsuit and called their conduct unethical unprofessional and malicious, Sunday News reports.
Through his legal team, Webb, Low and Barry Attorneys the Professor responded to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko">Phelekhezela</a> and Siqokoqela Mphoko’s <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/11/former-vp-mpoko-sues-chamisas-deputy-over-choppies-payout/">lawsuit which demands that he pays them US $1.5 million</a> for allegedly squandering part of the $2.9 million they got as their exit package from Choppies said:
<blockquote>…the above conduct is unethical, unprofessional and calculated to cause irreparable damage to the good name of and reputation of our client. We therefore highlight the lack of professional courtesy and ethics in the manner and circumstances in which you caused the summons to be issued. 
On Monday, 9th December 2019, your office went to the High Court registry and had, as per practice, one copy of the summons date stamped and given a case number to enable you to go to the payment office to render payment for issuance of the summons. 
You did not proceed to make any payment, nor did you return to the registry to produce proof of payment but left the High Court without any process having been issued and circulated to the media copies of the single copy of summons which have the date stamp of the registry and allocated case number.</blockquote>
More; <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/mphokos-desperate-confused-and-malicious-prof-ncube/">Sunday News</a>

The Mphokos' Conduct Is Unethical, Unprofessional And Malicious - Welshman Ncube

The criminal abuse of office trial for former Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko">Phelekezela Mphoko</a> failed to start yesterday as per schedule due to miscommunication between the state and the VPs defence team, Daily News reports.
According to the publication:
<blockquote>Prosecutor Nelson Mutsonziwa said his team came prepared for arguing the application by Mphoko for postponement of trial, but yesterday his lawyer was now singing a different tune. Magistrate Mujaya then postponed the matter to today.</blockquote>
The <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/08/16/just-in-zacc-officials-attempt-to-arrest-ex-vice-president-mphoko/">former VP is facing criminal abuse of office charges after he reportedly</a> instructed the Police at Avondale Police station to release 2 people in custody on corruption charges.
More: <a href="https://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2019/11/13/mphoko-s-trial-in-false-start">The Daily News </a>

Mphoko's Trial Starts A Day Later Due To Miscommunication

Officials from the Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC), reportedly attempted to arrest former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko at his Bulawayo home on Friday afternoon, ZimLive reports.
Mphoko allegedly ordered the officials to leave his house. A report by the online publication on its Twitter handle reads:
<blockquote>Men believed to be from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission attempted to arrest former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko at his Bulawayo home late this afternoon but were told to leave by Mphoko. Incident captured on dramatic video. “Get out of my house,” Mphoko heard saying.</blockquote>
https://twitter.com/zimlive/status/1162426345772724226

JUST IN: ZACC Officials Attempt To Arrest Ex Vice President Mphoko

Former Vice President  Phelekezela Mphoko is now planning to approach the courts to force the government to release his terminal benefits.
This was revealed by his lawyer Welshman Ncube in an interview with Daily News. This come one and a half years after Mphoko was ousted from Government following Operation Restore Legacy. Mphoko is demanding, for life, a salary equivalent to that of a sitting VP, bodyguards, an office and a government vehicle. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>We haven’t made any progress at all since the last time. What we have to do now is go to court since we are not making any progress in the discussions with regards to his pension. We have been going round in circles and haven’t achieved any progress,</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2019/03/14/mphoko-fights-for-his-benefits">Daily News</a>

Mphoko To Take Govt To Court Over Pension

The Mphokos’ lawyer, Professor Welshman Ncube,  last night confirmed to The Chronicle that his clients former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko and his son, Siqokoqela are no longer shareholders of Botswana-based Nanavac Investments, trading as Choppies Supermarkets Zimbabwe.
The Mphokos agreed to be bought out of the company to end a protracted ownership wrangle. Ncube said he has since released a joint statement with Choppies Enterprises lawyer Mr Munyaradzi Nzarayapenga notifying the public about the latest development. The statement reads:
<blockquote>We have been instructed by our clients Choppies Enterprise, Phelekezela Mphoko and Siqokoqela Mphoko, to advise the public and all staff of Nanavac Investments trading as Choppies Zimbabwe that on 9 January 2019 the shareholders and directors amicably resolved and settled all issues, matters, cases and disputes between and among themselves so that there are no longer any outstanding between our respective clients, who further advise that the Mphokos have disinvested from Choppies Zimbabwe and have no further interests in the company and its business. Our respective clients wish each other well in their present and future endeavours.</blockquote>
In an interview, Ncube said his clients would be paid for 51 percent shareholding, but could not state the amounts of money involved.
<hr/>
<h4>Related:</h4>
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<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/12/10/mphoko-given-choppies-shares-for-facilitating-firms-entry-into-zim-given-extra-44-shares-to-circumvent-indigenisation-laws/" rel="bookmark">Mphoko Given Choppies Shares For Facilitating Firm’s Entry Into Zim, Given Extra 44% Shares To Circumvent Indigenisation Laws</a></h3>
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<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/12/02/mphokos-business-partners-demand-us94-million-for-him-to-control-choppies/" rel="bookmark">Mphoko’s Business Partners Demand US$94 Million For Him To Control Choppies</a></h3>
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<hr/>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mphoko-exits-choppies/">Herald</a>

Mphoko No Longer Choppies Shareholder

When contacted by Southern Eye, Phelekezela Mphoko’s lawyer Welshman Ncube said Government has until early December to process the former Vice President’s pension or risk a civil suit.
Said Ncube:
<blockquote>The notice has not yet expired. I do not have the papers with me right now (to confirm the date of expiry of notice), but it expires in early December.</blockquote>
Government acknowledges Mphoko is entitled to his pension but argues he does not deserve full benefits as he did not serve a full term under Statutory Instrument 86 of 2015. SI 86 of 2015 states only a VP who served at least one term in office can enjoy exit packages such as a security officer. However Section 102 of Zimbabwe’s constitution says Mphoko is entitled to benefits as may be prescribed under an Act of Parliament.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2018/11/govt-gets-ultimatum-over-mphokos-pension/">NewsDay</a>

Govt Has Until December To Pay Mphoko's Pension- Welshman Ncube

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko’s lawyer, Professor Welshman has revealed that his client is yet to receive his terminal benefits. Ncube said that he was prepared to go to court in order to make the government give his client his dues. Said Ncube,
<blockquote>Nothing has happened. The government has not yet given the former Vice-President his benefits and pensions. We are still waiting…So, we want to deal with the areas we agree and dispense with that and go to court on the areas that are not agreed. At the moment, we have not hit a brick wall, so we are not yet going to court.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2018/05/mphoko-yet-to-get-terminal-benefits/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a>

Mphoko Yet To Receive Benefits, Lawyer Says We Will Go To Court

Former vice president Phelekezela photo has been accused of being a liar by businessman Paul Evans. Evans who fled the country two years ago alleges that Mphoko together with war veteran George Mlala had a part to play in destroying his business Golden Grill Fast Foods. Evans was particularly unhappy that Mphoko had denied any involvement in the matter. Mphoko’s lawyer, Welshman Ncube had said:
<blockquote>He has never been involved in issues to do with Golden Grill and he never supported Mlala . . . And he denies having any conversation with Paul Evans. He says all these are political fabrications directed at him for political motives. He has always acted lawfully and ethically during his time in office.</blockquote>
Responding to Mphoko’s claim, Evans said
<blockquote>That’s a joke, I met Mphoko and some security detail called Sims was also present. Mphoko summoned Mlala to the meeting. He came and I even met Mphoko’s son on that day.
I told him (Mphoko) that Mlala helped those guys steal my business, you got to remember that Mlala was the front man. He basically spoke as the new director of my company. Mlala was the one talking to Mphoko because I am sure he didn’t want to expose his friend. He quickly told me to go to Mlala for recourse and told him they should pay me and abruptly closed the meeting.</blockquote>
Evans has since written a letter to President Emmerson Mnangagwa as he tries to reclaim his business.
More: <a href="https://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2018/01/24/southern-news-mphoko-is-a-liar-tycoon">Daily News</a>

Exiled White Businessman Says Mphoko Is A Liar

In an interview with The Chronicle, former War Veterans Minister Retired Colonel Tshinga Dube said that former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko abandoned him when he was appointed Vice President in 2015, Dube also said that Mphoko ignored his advice and warnings against aligning himself to G40.
Said Dube:
<blockquote>Mphoko was my personal friend; we worked together for a long time in the Zipra High Command. However, when he assumed power, I was disappointed because he surrounded himself with the wrong people who gave him bad advice. He got new friends in the form of the likes of George Mlala. This is where he got things wrong because he involved himself with dubious characters with a very bad history. They misled him into playing factional politics with the G40 people. I think you remember that at one point Mphoko dressed me down at (Zanu-PF Bulawayo provincial headquarters) Davies Hall when he said I should work with the Mlala group and the rest of the G40 cabal or my political life would come to an end.</blockquote>
More: <a href="http://www.chronicle.co.zw/cde-mphoko-ditched-old-friends-on-landing-vp-post/">Chronicle</a>

Mphoko abandoned his old friends when he became VP, ignored warnings against aligning himself with G40

Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko is reported to be making plans to seek refuge in either Zambia or Mozambique. Mphoko is afraid that he will be arrested if he returns home, as he is wanted on charges of obstruction of justice and corruption. Some of the charges stem from the time when Mphoko stormed a police station and ordered the release of then Zinara acting chief executive officer Engineer Moses Juma and board chairman Davison Norupiri who had been arrested on allegations of abuse of office and fraud.  Mphoko argued that their arrest was not justifiable.
Mphoko is still in Japan, where he was when the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) seized power in a military takeover a week ago. Mphoko was supposed to have returned on Friday, but because of his fear, he is still in Japan. He is reported to have told the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), which is handling his travel arrangments, that he now wants his tickets changed so that he can land in either Zambia or Mocambique. Mphoko’s family is reported to have left the country already for Botswana, where Mphoko has business interests.
A source who spoke to the publication, NewsDay said:
<blockquote>He was supposed to be back in Zimbabwe by Friday, from Tokyo, Japan. But through the OPC, he has requested that his tickets be changed so that he lands either in Zambia or Mozambique. We know he fears arrest because he is wanted for obstruction of justice and corruption.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/11/mphoko-fears-return-zim/">NewsDay</a>

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