HARARE - Finance and Economic Development minister Mthuli Ncube has claimed what really triggered the rebellion in the streets last week was not the hike in fuel price, saying the demonstrations were pre-planned.

The protests started after President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a 150 percent increase in fuel prices. The Zimbabwean authorities reacted to the protests by deploying the military and by cutting off Internet access. 

In the cities of Harare and Bulawayo, the security forces opened fire on protesters, shooting 68 and killing at least eight. There were at least 100 reported cases of assaults with sharp objects and baton sticks by State security forces.

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Ncube stold the media in Davos: “There was already swell and this was one of the issues that was added on. But coming to fuel in specific is that fuel was already trading at a higher price in other quarters.

“There is a parallel market that had emerged and that’s where fuel was available as well. The price that was announced is not too far away from what was already out there.”

Asked why government is claiming Zimbabwe is open for business when people are being harassed for voicing out their concerns, Ncube said demonstrations on their own are proof that there is now self-governance in Zimbabwe unlike in the toppled Robert Mugabe era.

“What you saw in the streets is a clear sign the democratic space has been opened. This couldn’t happen in the past but it’s happening now, meaning President Mnangagwa is serious about opening up the democratic space.

“This is about progress, about the future and reforms. Reforms are never easy so we call for everyone to work together. The president has also called for dialogue so that we can face these challenges together.

It is not normal for a country not to have its own currency and it’s not normal for this type of decay to be allowed we need to change course.”

The Finance minister went on to justify the Internet shutdown even after the High Court had ruled that it was unlawful. On January 15, authorities blocked the Internet.

Some services were briefly restored on January 16, but by January 18, the Internet was once again inaccessible and the block was extended to include email communication.

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HARARE - Female musicians— Whitney Songbird and Ammara Brown — represented women in the ZBC TV Coca-Cola top 50 videos countdown coming seventh and eighth respectively.

The top 10 was dominated by male musicians with the two being the only women on the list, an indication that female musicians should work more on visuals in order to compete for honours.

Whitney was presented with the top female artist’s video award having garnered 11 655 votes for her video I See while Ammara came in with Svoto which had 9 324 votes.

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Whitney was accompanied by her husband and singer Best Masinire whose video was also in the charts, coming in at number 14.

Speaking at the event, she said she was shocked to be in the top 10 as this was her debut video.

On the radio side of the charts, gospel singer Mai Respina Patai represented women coming third and making history in the process.

She became the first woman to be in the top three in the history of the charts and her achievement was hailed by the sponsors.

“I am very excited that for the first time on the Radio Zimbabwe, we had a female singer in the top three. Congratulations Amai Patai for defying the odds and showing that female artists are capable.

“We also have another special to give to the top female artiste in the Coca Cola top 50 videos who is also in the top 10, congratulations to Whitney Songbird,” Coca-Cola senior brand manager Vee Chibanda said.

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HARARE - Ex-Mambokadzi dancer Enisia Mashusha who is now based in the United Kingdom has applauded musicians Winky D and Tocky Vibes for being the voice of the voiceless in Zimbabwe.

This comes after Winky D and Tocky Vibes released songs Kasong Kejecha and Zvirinani respectively that all speak truth to power.

“I would like to applaud my fellow artists Winky D and Tocky Vibes for being courageous and standing out firmly in being the voice not only for us artists but the general populace as well. Keep it up guys,” she said through a facebook post.

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“Surely it’s so disheartening to witness our country degenerating into absolute squalor. The situation is alarmingly getting worse on daily basis.

“Everything we laboured for is going down the drain. We as artists, I must say, have struggled over the years not only to better our lives but to put our country, Zimbabwe, on the map, but to no avail.”

Mashusha said the majority of people had lost faith in the President Emmerson Mnangagwa-led government.

“When the so-called new dispensation came into being, everyone had so much hope that things were heading for the better including us artists but it has increasingly become so transparent that our leaders always turn left when indicating right.

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“It has become a norm in our country now that whoever voices disgruntlement becomes an enemy of the State. Most of us artists cannot even express ourselves in fear of the unknown, either you are taken out of business or your life will be in danger, what a heartless leadership we have,” reads part of her post.

Winky D’s Kasong Kejecha, was released late last year. It hits hard on real issues affecting the majority by touching on issues such as corruption, dire state of country’s health system with some facilities demanding payment in United States dollars and general poverty.

In the song, Winky D, real name Wallace Chirumiko, even questions the mantra by the government insisting on rating the bond note 1:1 with US dollar. Reality on the ground is that the rate is 1:3.

On the other hand, Tocky Vibes’ song Zviri Nani condemns the indiscriminate bashing of the public by the military, saying soldiers should be fighting for the people and not fighting the people.

Tocky Vibes released the song recently after his pregnant wife was caught up in the skirmishes.

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HARARE - A Zimunya man has been fined $100 for bashing his wife over allegations of infidelity.

Brighton Marange of Zimunya Township was convicted on his own plea of guilt and faces an alternative 30-day jail stint if he fails to pay the fine in a sentence handed down by magistrate Perseverance Makala.

Marange was convicted of physical abuse as defined in Section 3 (i) (a) of the Domestic Violence Act Chapter 5:6.

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Prosecuting, Matthew Chimutunga told the court how Marange assaulted his wife on January 19 at around noon, accusing her of bedding one Elisha Chikware a claim she denies.

He kicked her all over the body with booted feet before threatening to kill her with a knife.

Ndadzungira sustained a back injuries but was not medically examined.

Matthew Chimutunga was prosecuting.

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HARARE - An Odzi drunk, who stole a pot of chicken worth almost $60 from a roadside restaurant in a fit of rage after being denied an extra piece, has been spared jail.

Gumisani Munhuwei, 33, of Murauro Village under Chief Marange was convicted on his own plea of guilt by magistrate Perseverance Makala.

Munhuwei, who pleaded for leniency claiming to having been heavily drunk, had a 30-day jail sentence suspended on condition he pays for the stolen meat.

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He was being charged with theft as defined in Section 113 of the Criminal Law Codification Reform Act Chapter 9:23.

It was the State’s case that on January 18, 2019 at around 2000 hours, while drunk, Munhuwei went to Elizabeth Sandu’s kitchen at Romeos and bought a plate of sadza.

The two had a misunderstanding after Munhuwei was asked to wash his hands at the tap and instead blew off after he was denied an extra piece of chicken.

He then went on to grab the pot with cooked meat and disappeared into the night.

John Mukwada and Eliot Badza, who were also at the restaurant, tried to pursue him but only returned with an empty pot he had dumped by the roadside.

Matthew Chimutunga was prosecuting.

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HARARE - Over a thousand families relocated from the Marange diamond fields to Arda Transau in Odzi are taking government to court to demand compensation and title deeds for their properties.

The organisation they formed to lead efforts to demand their rights to both government and mining companies — Arda Transau Relocation Development Trust (ATRDT)  — has this week alleged State security intimidation and the members now fear for their lives.

ATRDT spokesperson Tawanda Mufute said in a statement their chairperson Donald Masvaure was on Monday night visited by unidentified people who threatened unspecified action against his committee if they continued to raise awareness on the issue already before the courts.

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He said the entire leadership now fear for their lives.

“In the efforts to educate the community on their rights which were violated by mining companies during relocation starting from 2010 to date, ATRDT members now fear for their lives after an attack was made to our trust chairperson, Masvaure Donald,” Mufute said.

He said they made specific demands that Masvaure should not continue to raise awareness in the community about the matter which is before the Mutare High Court.

“At around 2200hours on Wednesday, a vehicle full of security forces who refused to produce their identification threatened Masvaure saying he and his trust members should stop addressing the communities about the issue,” Mufute said.

He, however, said the chairperson told the suspected military personnel that he “will not back down on supporting and defending our community rights”.

Mufute called on all community-based organisations to “stand with us during these fighting times”.

As Zimbabwe’s political elite and security apparatus made billions of dollars from the diamond fields, these families who were hurriedly bundled out of the diamond rich land are now living in squalor at Arda Transau, formerly a State-owned farm which was turned into a residential area.

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On relocation, they were promised everything from modern homes to agricultural land and other empowerment projects as well as hefty compensation.

None of the seven companies that relocated them to clear their path to mint the precious stones from their ancestral lands kept their promises.

At best, only a handful offered food assistance for a few months following relocation and agricultural inputs in the ensuing farming season.

Now, just about all relocated families reminisce daily about how they were walked up the garden path with government ministries and departments holding their hands in assurance.

The communities have been sinking into poverty since their arrival and instead of growing their wealth have been selling their livestock and property to keep their heads above the water with many already selling their houses to relocate back to communal areas they were accustomed to.

Pressure to generate income has given birth to child labour previously unheard of in the community as children skip school to vend firewood 10 kilometres away in Odzi Township with many homes being broken as some women are enticed into relationships with soldiers in a military camp in the area among a litany of other ills generated by the growing poverty.

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HARARE - Zimbabweans have expressed anger at South African president Cyril Ramaphosa’s claims that the country was on the path to democracy, at a time when at least 12 people were shot dead for exercising their constitutional right to demonstrate.

Speaking at the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland, Ramaphosa painted a glowing picture about Zimbabwe, further demanding the removal of an economic embargo imposed on the country in the early 2000s.

“It is no longer necessary to have sanctions against Zimbabwe right now, because they have embarked on democracy and a path of real recovery and we will help them best by lifting those sanctions,” Ramaphosa said.

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However, Zimbabweans and analysts have expressed anger at Ramaphosa’s claims, following protests sparked by the government’s 150 percent fuel price increase. 

The army and police ruthlessly suppressed the protests, leading to the death and injury of dozens others, who were later treated for gunshot wounds.

Acts of human rights violations were among the reasons why western countries imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe.

While Ramaphosa claimed Zimbabwe was recovering, citizens argued to the contrary, stating the country is in fact in a deep political quagmire.

“... Ramaphosa says Zimbabwe has emerged from a difficult situation when the reality is that the country is actually in a deep political crisis,” UK-based Kent University law lecturer Alex Magaisa wrote on Twitter.

Sentiments by Ramaphosa come at a time when an opposition political party in his country, the Democratic Alliance, has threatened to take Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the International Criminal Court, if the South African leader fails to act on the crisis.

Politician and Harare lawyer Fadzayi Mahere said Ramaphosa was supposed to keep quiet instead of “insulting” the people of Zimbabwe.

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“It is insulting to the Zimbabwean people for African presidents to claim Zimbabwe is on the path to democracy, this within days of army killings of unarmed civilians. 
If you won’t stand with the people, why not keep quiet? Is this the African way?  What a shame. #ubuntu,” Mahere wrote on her Twitter page.

The world had expected Zimbabwe to turn over a new leaf following former president Robert Mugabe’s removal from power in November 2017.

Mnangagwa had promised to bring a “new Zimbabwe”, but events of the past week, coupled with the post-election violence that took place on August 1, 2018, leading to the death of at least six people, has left many doubting his sincerity.

These events are what resulted in many people finding Ramaphosa’s views on Zimbabwe worrying.

MDC Midlands senator Lilian Timveos expressed shock at Ramaphosa’s claims.

“Ramaphosa has just shocked me. Oh my God and he wants to be president again in SA (South Africa). Remove sanctions. Zimbabwe on path to recovery, is this path to recovery? Africa. My heart bleeds,” Timveos wrote on Twitter, accompanying the post with pictures of battered people.

Piers Pigou, a political analyst also questioned Ramaphosa’s claims.

“Pres (president) Ramaphosa needs to be given the correct information about current sanctions/restrictions on Zimbabwe, their import on the current crisis, & prospects for economic recovery. Even … Mnangagwa and Fin min Ncube have acknowledged the sanctions excuse is no longer relevant,” he wrote on Twitter.

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HARARE - Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) acting chief elections officer Utoile Silaigwana yesterday revealed that polling station results in the July 30 elections were altered to benefit some candidates.

Silaigwana made the revelations during cross-examination when he was testifying during the trial of MDC deputy national chairperson Tendai Biti, who stands accused of announcing false election results.

Biti’s lawyer, Beatrice Mtetwa, asked Silaigwana to confirm to the court that figures which were officially announced were reduced from the figures which were posted 
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outside polling stations as at July 31, 2018.
“Confirm that the reduction meant there was a corresponding increase on other candidates,” Mtetwa questioned.

Silaigwana confirmed the queries, adding that: “I cannot state the beneficiaries unless in possession of the figures.”

As the two-hour long cross-examination progressed, Mtetwa cornered Silaigwana, demanding that he explains why Zec altered election figures.

Silaigwana struggled to justify why the commission announced three sets of results.

“I put it to you that Zec disowned what it posted outside polling stations, coming up with three different results. You are not producing this information and hiding it because it will not contradict the accused person,” said Mtetwa.

He refused to answer Mtetwa’s questions and threatened to stop responding to the questions which he said were irrelevant to the trial.

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Presiding magistrate Gloria Takundwa advised Silaigwana that only prosecutors Jonathan Murombezi and Tafadzwanashe Mpariwa can object to questions on his behalf.

“They have allowed the defence to ask these questions because they feel they are relevant. Please, answer the questions witness.”

When Silaigwana eventually responded, he told the court that the changes were insignificant as they did not overturn the overall outcome.

Silaigwana insisted that Biti had no mandate to announce presidential election results.

It was his testimony that Zec never conducted any investigations to disprove Biti’s utterances, adding that it was unnecessary.

“How then can you say he committed any offence when you never conducted any investigations to disprove his utterances? 

“What material evidence do you have that shows that he committed the offence?” Mtetwa queried.

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HARARE - Academic Kuzvinetsa Dzvimbo has been officially appointed as the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (Zimche) chief executive officer (CEO) by the Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development minister Amon Murwira.

In a statement, the ministry said Dzvimbo is highly regarded in terms of the management of universities having worked in many universities within and outside Zimbabwe.

“We are confident that he will drive the strategic turnaround of Zimche to becoming a vibrant Higher Education Regulatory Authority.

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“Zimche provides critical advice to the ministry with respect to issues of quality, governance, internationalisation of staff and students as well as benchmarking our programmes with international trends,” the statement said.

The ministry said Dzimbo’s appointment comes at a time when institutions of higher learning are now following education 5.0 that encompasses teaching, research, community service, innovation and industrialisation.

Meanwhile, Justice Nyamangara has been appointed as Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology founding vice chancellor. The ministry has commended his vast academic and university leadership skills. 

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HARARE - Edgars Stores Limited Zimbabwe has resolved to acquire 15 million shares for $1,5 million from parent company Edcon, allowing it to de-merge from the struggling holding company.

This comes after South Africa’s biggest clothing retailer Edcon — which owns Edgars, Jet, CNA and other brands — had been struggling after losing market share over the past 10 years.

Edgars Stores Limited Zimbabwe management team entered into discussions with Edcon regarding the acquisition of the Edgars and Jet brands locally.

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In a statement, Edgars Stores Limited Zimbabwe company secretary Buhle Mpofu advised shareholders that company directors resolved to “acquire the intellectual property rights to trademarks and brands assigned to Edgars by Edcon for the territory of Zimbabwe from Edcon for a consideration of $1,5 million to be settled through the issue of 15 million Edgar’s shares”.

“That, the directors of the company (or any duly authorised committee thereof) be and are, hereby authorised to do all such things that they may consider necessary desirable to give effect to, or pursuant to, or in connection with, the proposed transaction.”

The acquisition of the shares will see the local firm cutting franchise costs while reducing operating costs.

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HARARE - The ball is now firmly in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s court to ensure that his mooted dialogue with opposition leader Nelson Chamisa and other key stakeholders kicks off soon, and in earnest — without allowing hardliners in Zanu PF to once again sabotage the process, analysts say.

This comes as the international community yesterday joined hands with local groups in supporting calls for an all-inclusive national dialogue, which they said was the only option left on the table to save the country from imploding altogether following last week’s mayhem.

In that chaos which rocked Zimbabwe — after soldiers enlisted to assist overwhelmed police used excessive force against protesters in Harare, Bulawayo and several other towns — at least 12 people died, while 78 others needed treatment for serious gunshot wounds.

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In addition, the government also subsequently launched a vicious crackdown against pro-democracy and opposition officials — earning the ire of the international community and religious leaders.

Speaking to the Daily News yesterday, political analysts said Zimbabwe had reached a stage where both Mnangagwa and Chamisa were not just compelled to talk to each other, but needed to be strong against hawks within their respective parties who had previously opposed the mooted dialogue.

University of Zimbabwe political science lecturer Eldred Masunungure said Mnangagwa in particular, now needed to show leadership and finally make good on his promise to end the country’s myriad crises.

“While it is difficult to read the mind of anyone, late alone that of a politician, but ... one can give him (Mnangagwa) the benefit of the doubt. I think he is serious on the issue of talks.

“The protests appear to have caught him by surprise and he panicked. And so, he is cornered. He has no choice but to talk. Opening the doors for negotiations may thus also be part of the regime’s survival strategy to retain power,” Masunungure said.

“The implications of last week’s protests is that they could either strengthen or weaken the hand of the hardliners in both parties ... even as the terrible state of affairs in the country cannot continue.

“The other problem is that these protests can also erupt again and sweep everything aside, both the good and the bad ... and only dialogue can stop that.

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“The leaders in both parties must thus exercise their veto powers over their hardliners and call for immediate dialogue,” Masunungure added.

Rights lawyer and director for Southern Africa at Human Rights Watch Dewa Mavhinga said Mnangagwa was under the spotlight following his recent welcome call for dialogue — adding that the world “now expects action” from him.

“It is up to ED to prove his sincerity about national dialogue. I am sure he knows that the military crackdown on activists last week puts his word in serious doubt.

“It is unclear whether Zanu PF can be divided into hardliners and reformists because when horrific and horrendous human rights abuses are taking place, the so-called reformists in the party are always silent.

“If Zanu PF has reformists who support human rights, they must speak out now and push for meaningful dialogue that includes all interested parties, including civil society, churches, labour and political parties,” Mavhinga told the Daily News.

Mnangagwa’s move to reach out to Chamisa came as calls for national dialogue aimed at mitigating Zimbabwe’s myriad crises have reached a crescendo, following last week’s ugly disturbances, as well as the subsequent government crackdown against opposition officials and pro-democracy groups.

Before the chaos, Chamisa had re-iterated his desire to open talks with the Zanu PF leader — whom he referred to as “my brother”, in a welcome move which signalled his abandonment of his once militant approach to talks.

“I have met with many on our worsening situation and unbearable suffering. The back-to-school burden, high prices, non-performing economy, joblessness and worthless salaries bring sorrow.

“On this, I call upon my bro(ther) ED to urgent dialogue to solve our politics and economics or it gets worse,” he said on Twitter.

Insiders in Zanu PF and the MDC have also previously told the Daily News that hardliners in both parties were opposed to any dialogue as this threatened their political and economic interests.

This view was bolstered by political analysts who said the hardliners within both parties were “rabidly against talks for self-preservation reasons”.

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Masunungure said a fortnight ago that there was “no doubt” that the stumbling block to the mooted dialogue between Mnangagwa and Chamisa were hawks within the two parties.

“There are hardliners and soft-liners in the two parties. It dates back to the declaration by former president Robert Mugabe that he was supporting Chamisa on the eve of the (July 30) elections.

“Before that, Zanu PF was interested in engaging Chamisa and the opposition, but that declaration hardened the view of hardliners in Zanu PF, particularly the military,” he said.

“The hardliners in Zanu PF view Chamisa as someone who cannot be trusted. The MDC Alliance has also taken a hardline stance by rejecting the win by Mnangagwa, and as long as that view that Mnangagwa is illegitimate holds, there will not be dialogue.

“These hardline positions are unrealistic and I don’t see the two parties engaging unless if all these issue are resolved ... but that is what happens in a patronage system ... people will protect their turf.

“If you bring the MDC to government, some in Zanu PF could lose their positions, and so they undermine efforts between the MDC and Zanu PF to engage,” Masunungure added.

Chamisa has been brawling with Mnangagwa ever since he narrowly lost the hotly-disputed July 30 presidential election — whose result he vigorously challenged at the Constitutional Court (Con-Court).

The youthful opposition leader even went to the extent of accusing the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) of manipulating the poll results in favour of the Zanu PF leader.

But Mnangagwa’s victory was upheld by the Con-Court, which ruled that Chamisa had failed to provide evidence that he had won the election.

In the meantime, Mnangagwa and his government are battling to turn around the country’s sickly economy.

As a result, Zimbabwe is now in the throes of a mega economic crisis which has resulted in much suffering and anger among citizens who accuse the government of introducing a raft of measures which have further burdened them instead of alleviating their pain.

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HARARE - The National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness (NFZBBF) will host this year’s edition of Novice championships contest on March 30 at the Empire Gym in Harare.

Commonly known as bodybuilding for beginners contest, NFZBBF yesterday sought to explain the essence of the event now running under the banner “Novice Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships 2019”.

“Bodybuilding and fitness in Zimbabwe has developed over the years. Our athletes are grouped into four classes namely; freshments, ordinary amateurs, premier amateurs and professionals and Novice is meant for freshments,” NFZBBF secretary-general Quiet Shangai told the Daily News yesterday.

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“Freshments are athletes who are still new to competitive bodybuilding and fitness. These athletes have never competed at a show rated provincial or higher and are looking for exposure, confidence, guidance and encouragement. If not guided properly they will quit the sport or will struggle for the rest of their entire careers.”

Shangai said their development theme for this year is “90.90.90” .

“Having said that, it is critical to have a model that supports these athletes and Novice Zimbabwe should be the antidote,” he said.

“It is also imperative for a system to structure Novice in a way which allows for interaction between athletes and the federation pre, during and after Novice. In short the Novice competition should be interactive.

“Athletes should come out of Novice knowing career progression paths, athletes’ attitude, nutrition and show preparations.

“It is also critical for novices to know divisions which suit their physiques after a Novice show. A freshment will graduate into an ordinary amateur who is a developed athlete who has capacity to turn premier.

“A premier athlete can be sent to a regional or international show and do damage. If developed a premier amateur may turn professional.

A professional athlete is accorded the pro status by an International Federation and is not allowed to do amateur shows. Our development mantra for 2019 is 90.90.90.

“At least 90 percent of the athletes who will do Novice should do Provincial shows in 2019. At least 90 percent of the athletes who will have done Provincials and Novice will do the Nationals in 2019 and at least 90 percent of athletes who will do the Nationals in 2019 and don’t turn professional will do the 2020 Nationals.”

The event has already attracted a large pool of sponsors, who include Iron Lion nutrition, Empire Gym, Generations Shopfitters, Supplement Factory and Musclerage.

“We have several divisions lined up for this event which are the senior men bodybuilding open, junior men bodybuilding under 23 years, men’s physique open, men’s fitness open, wheelchair men bodybuilding and the women fitness development,” said Shangai.

Promising athlete Gerald Woodend won the Novice title last year.

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HARARE - Fashion enthusiasts yesterday participated in an online campaign #Dhuku4Tuku encouraging women to put on head wrap (doek) as tribute for the late superstar and national hero Oliver Mtukudzi.

Several women, including musicians, politicians and the corporate world, participated in the campaign meant to celebrate Tuku’s life.

Pictures of them covering their heads were posted online under the hashtag #Dhuku4Tuku and calling for all mourners to be dressed in black.

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Tuku died on Wednesday at Avenues Clinic after a long battle with diabetes and mourners are gathered at his Norton residence.

High-profile figures, including the President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Kembo Mohadi and several other government ministers attended the funeral.

Socialites and musicians also attended the funeral to pay their last respects to the late music supremo.

Meanwhile, Zimdancehall musicians have started releasing songs as tribute to the late superstar Mtukudzi.

Tuku in one of his several radio interviews singled out Soul Jah Love as someone in the right direction in as far as music is concerned.

Dancehall star Killer T has led other chanters Seh Calaz, Jah Signal and Flex Tattle in coming up with tracks in honour of the late icon.

Young chanter Flex Tattle’s handlers said he is a big fan of Tuku’s music and wishes to be like the superstar.

Local music promoters have since lined up a farewell gig at the National Sports Stadium in honour of Tuku with a number of musicians expected to perform.

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HARARE - Superstar Oliver Mtukudzi’s first wife Melody Murape has said she deeply loved the legendary musician and said the feeling was mutual.

The couple wed on February 24, 1979, with a huge party at Melody’s sister’s house in Highfield, then a subsequent wedding reception at Gwanzura Stadium. 

Tuku’s then friend and manager, Jack Sadza, was the wedding planner at the shindig that boasted a staggering 48 bridesmaids.

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They were later to break up when Tuku met Daisy, a woman Melody said she will never forgive for messing up her marriage.

Still holding bitter resentment, Melody accused Tuku’s widow of “snatching” her husband, a move she said left her utterly “heartbroken”.

Melody is mother to Tuku’s daughters Selmor and Sandra, and she was at the funeral wake on Thursday in the company of her churchmates.

She said she was devastated with the death of her beloved husband. She recalled with nostalgia how they would meet each time Tuku visited a commercial bank where she worked.

She also recalled the good times they shared each time she met with the musical icon and national hero at family functions such as lobola ceremonies.

“I am the first lady and that does not change. I loved Tuku and I know he loved me back and he died loving me and there is a Shona proverb ‘pane vana haparambanwe’. 
Each time he spoke to the children, Selmor or Sandra, he would ask about me and he would tell them I dumped him. I told him ‘I love you but you know the reason why I left,’” she said ruefully.

“I worked at  ... bank and Tuku was a client there and each time he visited we would meet and greet,” she said.

She said even after their separation, there were suggestions that she had another child to prove that she had moved on. 

She said her third pregnancy with another man, after the music superstar had moved on with Daisy, was a bitter pill for him to swallow.

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“When I got pregnant about 10 years later, Tuku was angry. I remember we met while sending Selmor to school and he was like ‘Selmor, mhama vako inhumbuka iyo (Your mother is pregnant)?’ He was pained. That showed he loved me. I did that to prove that I had moved on and to stop some stories,” she said.

Recalling the courtship days, she said: “It was not easy for Tuku to be accepted by my father. Musicians back then were looked down upon but we sailed through and we had a big wedding at Gwanzura Stadium. Everything was fine until the time she (Daisy) came.”

She said she opted out of the marriage. 

“I could not accept to be in a polygamous marriage and I walked away. He tried locking the doors at our Eastlea home but that did not work. He knew the reason I left.

“I will never forgive Daisy for that and may be one day God will intervene, I don’t want to lie that I have forgiven her, I have not. I gave birth to Selmor when she had come, I tried to hold on thinking she would let go of my husband but she could not and I decided to leave,” she said.

Melody said some people tried to separate her daughters from their father but the plan failed.

“Some people tried to sow seeds of division and a lot of things were said. However, Tuku realised that it was trivial and the relations were mended and from there they would meet,” she said.    

She said she will be at the burial of the late musician together with her daughters.

“I’m not here to cause any animosity, I’m here for Tuku’s funeral and I will be at his burial with my children,” she said.

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HARARE - All roads will lead to National Sports Stadium in the capital today for the late superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi’s send-off concert.

The concert, organised by local music promoters, will kick off at 9am and will run until 6pm.

One of the organisers, Josh Hozheri of Jazz 105 Promotions, said the event will feature virtually every musician and it is for free.

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“Confirmed musicians include Thomas Mapfumo, Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah and Suluman Chimbetu among others.

“Tuku Send-off Concert is a non-commercial gig. It was organised to give our musical hero a befitting send-off hence fans should come for free. They should come with their own drinks in cooler-boxes,” said Hozheri.

Some of the notable music promoters behind the gig include Simmad Entertainment, Red Rose Entertainment, Jazz 105 Promotions, Chipaz Promotions, Bodyslam and 2 Kings Entertainment among others.

Zimbabwe was thrown into mourning on Wednesday when the legendary Mtukudzi died at the Avenues Clinic at the age of 66.

On Thursday, Mtukudzi was declared a national hero by the Emmerson Mnangagwa-led government — becoming the first-ever musician to be given such an honour.

“Arts minister) Kirsty (Coventry) came with the proposal and I said let’s consult with colleagues in Zanu PF and government and everyone agreed unanimously without any pocket of resistance whatsoever.

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“We wanted to show the world that we loved Tuku the same way they loved him. As government, we have agreed to accord him national hero status,” Mnangagwa said to mourners after the declaration.

Meanwhile, Mtukudzi’s musical career can be traced back to late 1970s when he joined the Wagon Wheels, a band that also featured his old friend Thomas Mapfumo. 

During his time with the band Tuku was the lead voice on the track Nhamo Dzandimomotera which went gold.

Thereafter, he released hit after hit, endearing himself to the music lovers with his trademark cough and social commentary.

The exploits of Tuku propelled him to dizzy heights — making him arguably the country’s real international musician whose music is loved not only in Africa but across the globe.

He had collaborations with musicians from South Africa and the region and locally he nurtured talents with budding artistes some of whom have now become stars on their own.

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HARARE - Suspended chief magistrate Mishrod Guvamombe, who is accused of criminal abuse of office was yesterday, further remanded to February 28.

Guvamombe is accused of offering work-related learning to former Cabinet ministers Supa Mandiwanzira and Saviour Kasukuwere at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts where they are being tried for corruption related allegations.

Prosecutor Shephered Makonde sought postponement saying investigations are still underway.

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On his initial remand, the court heard Guvamombe threatened to release dossiers against his subordinates which expose their criminal malpractice.

The leading investigator, Clemence Mashawi, also told the court that he was informed by the Prosecutor-General’s office that Guvamombe is likely to face allegations of a similar nature.

The State alleges that on November 27, Guvamombe received a letter from the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) requesting attachment of Bachelor of Laws second level students on work-related learning

Guvamombe allegedly authorised the letter and referred it to the deputy chief magistrate Elijah Makomo without any comments or reservations.

Makomo reportedly referred the papers to the human resources officer, George Name, for processing.

The State alleges that Mandiwanzira and Kasukuwere, who are currently appearing at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts on criminal abuse of office charges, were some of the students.

It is the State’s case that Guvamombe did not endorse any reservations despite the fact that they are appearing before the same court and that their involvement in magisterial duties would bring the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) name into disrepute.

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On November 29, the court heard that Name wrote to all provincial heads, advising them of attachment of UZ law students from December 17 to February 15, 2019, with Mandiwanzira and Kasukuwere set to be attached at the magistrates’ court.

On December 17, it is alleged that Mandiwanzira and Kasukuwere reported for duty and were addressed by provincial magistrate Elisha Singano who upon realising that the duo had pending cases at the same court, approached Guvamombe and informed him of the predicament with the view to stop the internship.

The court heard Guvamombe allegedly insisted that the two are still innocent and instructed that they be attached at the Harare Civil Court and would consider Mbare for criminal duties attachment despite knowing these courts are manned by anti-corruption magistrates.

According to court papers, there was likelihood that Mandiwanzira and Kasukuwere might appear before the same magistrate whom they would be interaction with during their internship.

By so doing, the State alleges that Guvamombe acted inconsistently and contrary to his duties as the chief magistrate.

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HARARE - Music legend Oliver ''Tuku'' Mtukudzi, who passed away in Harare aged 66 on Wednesday after a long battle with diabetes, will, among other things, be remembered for mentoring young musicians.

Throughout his long music career, which spanned over four decades, Tuku provided a platform for fledgling artistes to flourish. The award-winning musician used his Norton-based Pakare Paye Arts Centre, which he established in 2004, to nurture young talent. Rising Afro-fusion artiste Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora and guitarist-cum-vocalist Donald Kanyuchi typify the high quality of musicians that have been churned out by Tuku’s Pakare Paye.

But the biggest beneficiary of Tuku’s exemplary mentorship was arguably Gary Tight- son of Afro-fusion veteran and Samanyanga’s friend Willom Tight. The two shared a special bond that made many to suggest that Gary probably reminded Tuku of his late son Sam who tragically passed away in an accident in March 2010.

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The genesis of this special relationship possibly came about at Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) in March 2016 at the launch of Jah Prayzah’s fifth album, Kumbumura Mhute. Tuku was guest of honour at the event.

Tuku sauntered into the HICC with his wife Daisy in tow. As had become norm, there was a big scramble for Tuku’s ear by fellow artistes, fans and ushers who wanted to direct to the music legend to the high table. But it was clear that none of them was winning his undivided attention.

The Bvuma singer looked very distracted. In between half-hearted answers to greetings, Tuku’s gaze continued to wander intermittently towards the stage where Gary was performing. As fate would have it, the music superstar entered the HICC while Gary was performing ‘Cheziya,’ a song by Tuku’s late son Sam.

Tuku was clearly moved by Gary’s passionate rendition of ‘Cheziya.’ The rising artiste performed the song like it was his. It seemed for once as if Sam Mtukudzi had reincarnated.

The well-executed performance of ‘Cheziya’ won the heart of the veteran musician .It came as no surprise when the Tuku invited Gary to collaborate with him on stage at his ‘Greatest Hits Concert’ that took place 10 days later at the same venue, marking the start of what was to become a deep-rooted relationship between the two.

Three months later, Tuku’s manager at the time, Sam Mataure, announced plans to feature Gary on Abi’angu II,’an album on which Tuku wanted to feature his  musical friends who include Hugh Masekela (South Africa), Ladysmith Black Mambazo (South Africa), Salif Keita (Mali), South Africa-based Kunle Ayo (Nigeria), Alick Macheso and Ammara Brown.

In May 2017, at Gary’s 21st birthday, where Samanyanga was the guest of honour, Tuku and his young protégé gave an insight into their special relationship.

Gary attributed his success to the music legend.

“I could say that 40 percent of Gary Tight the musician has been contributed by Mudhara Tuku. Many Zimbabwean musicians, some of them more experienced and talented than me, often ask me why Mudhara Tuku has such a soft spot for me.

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“They are surprised by the fact that such an iconic artiste is willing to assist Gary wo zvake; a young artiste who is still to release his debut album,” said Gary then.

At the birthday party Tuku explained why he chose to help Gary and not other upcoming artistes.

“I help you (Gary) not because you are the son of my friend Wilom Tight but because uri mupfana aribho (You are a good boy.)

“Ukava mwana akanaka zvese unozviwana (If you behave well you will succeed.)Talent is important yes but discipline and focus are more important.

“I didn’t reach this milestone (four decades in music) entirely because of my talent but due to discipline and hard work. There are many even more talented people who have failed to succeed because of lack of discipline,” said the music legend then.

To cement their special relationship, Tuku and Gary collaborated last year on a reggae-chigiyo hit titled ‘Ndizarurire.” Thanks, to the hit Gary has become one of the most highly rated young Zimbabwean artiste.

Apart from Gary Tight, in recent times Tuku has also been impressed by guitarist-cum-vocalist Norman Masamba who first burst onto the local music scene as the lead guitarist of Afro-fusion artiste Victor Kunonga’s Peace Band.

At the inaugural Jacaranda Music Festival held at Hellenic Sports Club in Harare in October last year, I was lucky to briefly watch the performing artistes in the company of Tuku and his manager Walter Wanyanya whose Ngoma Nehosho organised the well-attended event.

Tuku boldly declared that Masamba was on course to be an accomplished musician.

“He is a very talented musician and has all he needs to have a great music career. He is a great vocalist in addition to being a very talented guitarist. What I am very happy about him is the fact that he is very disciplined. I am very keen to work with him in future,” said Tuku at the time.

After hearing of Tuku’s death, Masamba, who is currently based in South Africa, described the music legend’s death as a “very big blow.”

“It is very sad because we had lined up a collaboration. Mudhara Tuku had actually selected one of my tracks that had impressed him. He wanted to feature on the track but due to his tight schedule we kept on rescheduling. Sadly death has robbed me of this great chance to do a duet with an internationally acclaimed music icon,” Masamba told the Daily News.

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HARARE - The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) has deferred the local authority by-elections that were scheduled to be held this month in Chitungwiza and Bulawayo.

In a statement, Zec said the by-elections in Chitungwiza’s ward 24 and Bulawayo’s ward 28 has been postponed as it is no longer feasible to conduct them freely and fairly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Nominations for Bulawayo’s councillor will now be held on Friday, February 22 at the Municipal Building with the poll scheduled for March 30 if an election is deemed necessary.

In Chitungwiza, the elections have been scheduled for February 23.

“It is hereby notified in terms of section 132(1)(a) of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13) as follows that polling shall now take place in ward 24 of Chitungwiza Municipality on February 23, 2019 from 7:00am and 7:00pm for purposes of election of a councillor for the said ward.

“The candidates duly nominated following the close sitting of the Nomination Court which sat on Wednesday, December 7 at the offices of the Town Clerk for Chitungwiza Municipality remain the same,” acting chief elections officer said.  

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BULAWAYO - The Bulawayo Municipal Commercial Undertaking (BMCU)-run Ingwebu Breweries has called for fresh applications from current and prospective suppliers who are registered by Procurement and Regulation Authority of Zimbabwe (Praz).

In a press statement, the Brewery said all prospective suppliers who had responded to the previous adverts need to make fresh submissions again including proof of registration by Praz.

“Being guided by Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Asset Act (22;23), Ingwebu Breweries is inviting applications from current and prospective suppliers for consideration as approved suppliers for consideration as approved suppliers of goods and services,” read the statement.

The suppliers’ core business includes air conditioning equipment, installation and maintenance; alarms system; Auctioneers; construction and renovations; forklifts hire; mealie meal; water engineering, and many more.

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HARARE - The Hindoo Society of Harare is organising “Samuh Shanti Havan” or a collective fire sacrifice for peace on January 27 in the capital and has invited all Hindus to participate.

“Performing a Havan or Homa brings peace and prosperity in the world”, the Society said. The smoke from Havan “removes what is harmful in the atmosphere and attracts what is good, thereby increasing abundance and prosperity in the world”.

Organisers said participants are requested to bring flowers, camphor, five paans, tulsi, durva, fruit, aarti thaali, prasad, red cloth, Ganpati statue, bajat, etc.; while other required havan items will be provided by the Society.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement from Nevada in the US, commended the Zimbabwe hindus for their inclusivity approach by performing the ancient rituals aimed at the welfare of the entire broader community.

Rajan Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, congratulated the community in Zimbabwe for continuing with the traditional values of hard work, higher morals, stress on education, sanctity of marriage amidst so many distractions. He advised Hindus to focus on inner search, stay pure, explore the vast wisdom of scriptures, make spirituality more attractive to youth and children, stay away from the greed, and always keep God in your life. 

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