Masvingo- Hundreds of MDC supporters including children of school going age, took to the streets this morning in celebration. The celebration was prompted by news that their Morgan Tsvangirai and ZANU PF leader Robert Mugabe reached a power sharing agreement last night. The agreement will see the formation of a Government of National Unity.
Zimbabwe has been embroiled in a political crisis which dates back to 2000 when Tsvangirai’s MDC first contested in a general election against ZANU PF. The crisis deepened earlier this year when Tsvangirai won the most votes against Mugabe in the harmonized elections of March 29. However, Tsvangirai did not win the constitutional 50% plus one vote to avoid a run off. Tsvangirai pulled out of the run off a few days before the poll citing widespread state sponsored violence against MDC supporters. The violent campaign left more than 100 opposition supporters dead. Mugabe went into the run off election unchallenged and claimed victory. The election was dismissed by the international community which vowed not to recognize the outcome.
President Mbeki who was appointed by Sadc to mediate long before the March election, managed to get the political parties on the negotiating table. A political settlement was reportedly reached last night.
The deal will see President Mugabe retain his post while Tsvangirai will become the Prime minister.
MDC supporters started celebrating in the high density suburbs of Runyararo and Chesvingo as early as 0630hrs today. The celebrations started spontaneously as soon as the news of the agreement filtered through. The celebration later proceeded into the City Centre this time with a few MDC councilors in the lead. The supporters blew whistles, sang, chanted their party slogan and threw flyers around. Most of them were clad in their party regalia. Police later rounded them up and took them to Masvingo Police Central. They were told by police that they should have sought clearance first. They were told that they were free to go in and out of the police station but they were not to disappear.Police were not immediately available for comment.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Friday, August 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR BOOED OUT OF WORKSHOP
MASVINGO- Ward 8 Councillor Misheck Gapare was last week booed out of a workshop by participants who were irked by his sentiments.
The two day workshop which was on promoting transparency and accountability in public service delivery was organized by the Masvingo United Residents and Rate Payers Association (MURRA) in collaboration with Transparency International –Zimbabwe.
Councillor Gapare had arrived at the workshop at lunch and immediately demanded to be served food. Going on into the workshop, Councillor Gapare disagreed with the other participants on the idea that councilors should not wait to be asked for feedback. Addressing the workshop the Town Clerk Mr Adolf Gusha agreed with other workshop participants on the need for councilors to get back to their wards and give people feedback. Gapare seemed unhappy with this and he raised his hand quickly to voice is disapproval. Councillor Gapare drew the ire of other participants when he suggested that he was too busy for feedback meetings. ”You have to know that I have my own priorities and I cannot go door to door reporting back on council deliberations. Do not forget that I am not a full time employee of the council on salary. I also have my own business and I maybe running around to buy coffins for some of you”, said Gapare.
This did not go down with the other participants and they interjected him in protest. Gapare tried to shout over their voices but gave up and marched out shouting “I did not come here to be abused”. On his marching out the other participants clapped in victory. He did not show up on the second day of the workshop.
The workshop then proceeded with other participants using the councillor as an example of bad leadership skills. Later, people discussed whether councilors should be elected on party lines or based on individuals’ leadership qualities and on merit. The workshop touched on issues of enhancing municipal service delivery through improved accountability and transparency, the role of residents associations in interfacing local Authorities for transparency and accountability. The workshop was also attended by Councilors Muchuchuti, Josia, and Maridza who was elected the deputy Mayor. MURRA has been organizing a lot of workshops to enhance residents’ participation in decision making when it comes to local governance. MURRA was applauded by participants for being pro-active and vibrant in trying to empower residents of Masvingo as well as bringing all stakeholders together.
The two day workshop which was on promoting transparency and accountability in public service delivery was organized by the Masvingo United Residents and Rate Payers Association (MURRA) in collaboration with Transparency International –Zimbabwe.
Councillor Gapare had arrived at the workshop at lunch and immediately demanded to be served food. Going on into the workshop, Councillor Gapare disagreed with the other participants on the idea that councilors should not wait to be asked for feedback. Addressing the workshop the Town Clerk Mr Adolf Gusha agreed with other workshop participants on the need for councilors to get back to their wards and give people feedback. Gapare seemed unhappy with this and he raised his hand quickly to voice is disapproval. Councillor Gapare drew the ire of other participants when he suggested that he was too busy for feedback meetings. ”You have to know that I have my own priorities and I cannot go door to door reporting back on council deliberations. Do not forget that I am not a full time employee of the council on salary. I also have my own business and I maybe running around to buy coffins for some of you”, said Gapare.
This did not go down with the other participants and they interjected him in protest. Gapare tried to shout over their voices but gave up and marched out shouting “I did not come here to be abused”. On his marching out the other participants clapped in victory. He did not show up on the second day of the workshop.
The workshop then proceeded with other participants using the councillor as an example of bad leadership skills. Later, people discussed whether councilors should be elected on party lines or based on individuals’ leadership qualities and on merit. The workshop touched on issues of enhancing municipal service delivery through improved accountability and transparency, the role of residents associations in interfacing local Authorities for transparency and accountability. The workshop was also attended by Councilors Muchuchuti, Josia, and Maridza who was elected the deputy Mayor. MURRA has been organizing a lot of workshops to enhance residents’ participation in decision making when it comes to local governance. MURRA was applauded by participants for being pro-active and vibrant in trying to empower residents of Masvingo as well as bringing all stakeholders together.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
PASTORAL STATEMEMENT ON THE CURRENT SITUATION IN ZIMBABWE
ZAMBIA EPISCOPAL CONFERENCE
Pastoral Statement on the Current Situation in Zimbabwe
10th June 2008
“You must love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbour as yourself” [Luke 10:27]
1. We, the Catholic Bishops of Zambia, have been closely watching the situation in Zimbabwe since the year 2000. We have followed the events in this neighbouring country as they took a downward and shocking turn after the 29 March 2008 general and presidential elections. Zimbabwe is on the brink of total economic collapse and political destruction and we consider it our duty to raise our voice in solidarity with the suffering people of this sister country and our region.
2. The suffering of God’s people anywhere does not go unnoticed by Him and He surely has seen the suffering of the people of Zimbabwe as it is said in Exodus, “I have seen the suffering of my people and have heard their cry of complaint so I know what they are suffering” [Exodus 3: 7].
3. The suffering of our poor sisters and brothers is intolerable and beyond any political excuses. The total collapse of the economy of Zimbabwe, which was known as the bread basket of the sub-region, especially affects the poor in Zimbabwe. The political collapse or failure of government is shown by the terrible violence and attacks on the citizenry after the elections. These are verified by impartial observers, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible. An environment of peace is essential for elections, not an environment of fear such as has been fostered by brutal attacks on those who are alleged or judged to have voted “in the wrong way!” The Message from the Heads of Christian Denominations in Zimbabwe, jointly signed by the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, clearly speaks of “organised violence”. This is unacceptable.
4. We applaud the fact that our brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe have shown great resilience and restraint in the midst of an extremely volatile political situation, harsh economic conditions and untold misery as a result of physical abuse. This shows a great commitment to look for a just political process peacefully. We also acknowledge the courage of the civil society and many Church leaders in Zimbabwe who have prophetically endeavoured to speak out, as demonstrated in recent statements. The concern about the situation in Zimbabwe stems from our concern for all human beings. The situation in Zimbabwe since 2002 has affected us all in the Southern Region. For instance, the current tragic situation in South Africa is partly a result of what has been obtaining in Zimbabwe in the past eight years or so.
5. We raise our voice to add to that of the people of Zambia who love their brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe. This love was demonstrated over the years particularly from 11 November 1965 till democratic governance came to Zimbabwe in April 1980. Zambians paid a very high price in supporting their sister country’s liberation struggle. They sacrificed a promising economic future and rapid social development in order to walk with Zimbabweans on the road to freedom and democracy. The damage to Zambia’s economy that this sacrifice brought about is immeasurable. Needless to say that some Zambians paid the supreme price; by losing their lives!
6. We therefore call upon the relevant authorities to ensure that this circle of violence is brought to a halt. As the country begins its preparations for the re-run of the presidential elections it is important that peace should prevail. Free and fair elections cannot be held in an atmosphere of intimidation, torture, and abductions. The current electoral commission in Zimbabwe has lost all credibility going by the manner in which it conducted the March 2008 general election. Therefore, for the run-off elections to be credible it is imperative to have international observers not just from SADC, AU, and EU but also from the United Nations. The rule of law must be re-established and should be particularly evaluated in terms of respect for the poor and defenceless – when we hear of so many casualties from violence, especially in poor rural areas, from whoever is perpetrating it, then we know that the rule of law has broken down and the very first commitment of the President and all his government officials must be to restore the law and order that protects the poor and defenceless – right away.
7. We appeal to all countries in this Region through their political leaders to speak out much more firmly for a settlement of peace and justice in the current crisis in Zimbabwe. Whilst we appreciate and commend the efforts of SADC at solving the problem we call upon the same SADC leaders to take much stronger action. Our appeal is the most appropriate and, indeed, the only credible response to the sufferings of our neighbours. Scripture says, “…this is what Yahweh asks of you: only this, to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.” [Micah 6:8].
8. It is imperative for the international community, that is to say the AU and particularly SADC, to ensure that the Regime in Zimbabwe particularly the President, understand that the serious concern about democratic rule, respect for human rights, and the promotion of justice and peace is coming not so much from the international community, this concern and call is coming from our kith and kin, our brothers and sisters, namely the people of Zimbabwe first and foremost, the people of Zambia, the people in the SADC Region and indeed the whole of Africa. Whilst it may be true that some of the problems we face in Africa are a result of the colonial past, it is totally unacceptable to continually blame “colonialists and imperialists”, for problems and misery that mistakes made by our leaders in Africa, and in this case Zimbabwe, have caused.
WAY FORWARD
9. We call upon governments in countries bordering Zimbabwe, including ours, to treat the Zimbabweans who are fleeing the violence and social dislocation at home, as genuine refugees who should be treated with the compassion and dignity they deserve. We deplore the abuse that some refugees, especially women, are being subjected to by people in some border areas who are taking advantage of their desperate situation. We ask our dioceses to receive any refugees with open arms of Christian and African hospitality, and to assist in any way those who are suffering so much.
10. It has to be brought to bear on the government of Zimbabwe to ensure that political violence is immediately brought to an end. The necessary processes and procedures for the re-run must be swiftly dealt with in a transparent manner.
11. We encourage the Church in Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and continue to raise a prophetic voice against all cases of social injustice. We urge them to speak candidly to the people to guide them on the way forward for the country.
12. We call upon the people of Zimbabwe to remain steadfast and refuse to be intimidated in their quest for better governance and greater democracy.
We, on our part, shall continue to pray for a peaceful end to the crisis in Zimbabwe. We encourage our sisters and brothers in Zimbabwe not to lose hope because God has never and will never abandon his own.
“I will betroth you to myself forever, betroth you with integrity and justice, with tenderness and love; I will betroth you to myself with faithfulness and you will come to know Yahweh” [Hosea 2:21-22]
10th June 2008
Signed:
Rt. Rev. George Zumaire Lungu Bishop of Chipata, ZEC President
Rt. Rev. Noel O’Regan, SMA Bishop of Ndola, ZEC Vice-President
Most Rev. Telesphore-George Mpundu Archbishop of Lusaka
Most Rev. James Spaita Archbishop of Kasama
Most Rev Medardo J. Mazombwe Archbishop Emeritus of Lusaka
Rt. Rev Aaron A. Chisha Bishop of Mansa
Rt. Rev. Raymond Mpezele Bishop of Livingstone
Rt. Rev. Paul Duffy, OMI Bishop of Mongu
Rt. Rev. Emilio Patriarca Bishop of Monze
Rt. Rev. Alick Banda Bishop of Solwezi
Very Rev. Robert Lavertu, M.Afr. Apostolic Administrator of Mpika
Pastoral Statement on the Current Situation in Zimbabwe
10th June 2008
“You must love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbour as yourself” [Luke 10:27]
1. We, the Catholic Bishops of Zambia, have been closely watching the situation in Zimbabwe since the year 2000. We have followed the events in this neighbouring country as they took a downward and shocking turn after the 29 March 2008 general and presidential elections. Zimbabwe is on the brink of total economic collapse and political destruction and we consider it our duty to raise our voice in solidarity with the suffering people of this sister country and our region.
2. The suffering of God’s people anywhere does not go unnoticed by Him and He surely has seen the suffering of the people of Zimbabwe as it is said in Exodus, “I have seen the suffering of my people and have heard their cry of complaint so I know what they are suffering” [Exodus 3: 7].
3. The suffering of our poor sisters and brothers is intolerable and beyond any political excuses. The total collapse of the economy of Zimbabwe, which was known as the bread basket of the sub-region, especially affects the poor in Zimbabwe. The political collapse or failure of government is shown by the terrible violence and attacks on the citizenry after the elections. These are verified by impartial observers, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible. An environment of peace is essential for elections, not an environment of fear such as has been fostered by brutal attacks on those who are alleged or judged to have voted “in the wrong way!” The Message from the Heads of Christian Denominations in Zimbabwe, jointly signed by the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, clearly speaks of “organised violence”. This is unacceptable.
4. We applaud the fact that our brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe have shown great resilience and restraint in the midst of an extremely volatile political situation, harsh economic conditions and untold misery as a result of physical abuse. This shows a great commitment to look for a just political process peacefully. We also acknowledge the courage of the civil society and many Church leaders in Zimbabwe who have prophetically endeavoured to speak out, as demonstrated in recent statements. The concern about the situation in Zimbabwe stems from our concern for all human beings. The situation in Zimbabwe since 2002 has affected us all in the Southern Region. For instance, the current tragic situation in South Africa is partly a result of what has been obtaining in Zimbabwe in the past eight years or so.
5. We raise our voice to add to that of the people of Zambia who love their brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe. This love was demonstrated over the years particularly from 11 November 1965 till democratic governance came to Zimbabwe in April 1980. Zambians paid a very high price in supporting their sister country’s liberation struggle. They sacrificed a promising economic future and rapid social development in order to walk with Zimbabweans on the road to freedom and democracy. The damage to Zambia’s economy that this sacrifice brought about is immeasurable. Needless to say that some Zambians paid the supreme price; by losing their lives!
6. We therefore call upon the relevant authorities to ensure that this circle of violence is brought to a halt. As the country begins its preparations for the re-run of the presidential elections it is important that peace should prevail. Free and fair elections cannot be held in an atmosphere of intimidation, torture, and abductions. The current electoral commission in Zimbabwe has lost all credibility going by the manner in which it conducted the March 2008 general election. Therefore, for the run-off elections to be credible it is imperative to have international observers not just from SADC, AU, and EU but also from the United Nations. The rule of law must be re-established and should be particularly evaluated in terms of respect for the poor and defenceless – when we hear of so many casualties from violence, especially in poor rural areas, from whoever is perpetrating it, then we know that the rule of law has broken down and the very first commitment of the President and all his government officials must be to restore the law and order that protects the poor and defenceless – right away.
7. We appeal to all countries in this Region through their political leaders to speak out much more firmly for a settlement of peace and justice in the current crisis in Zimbabwe. Whilst we appreciate and commend the efforts of SADC at solving the problem we call upon the same SADC leaders to take much stronger action. Our appeal is the most appropriate and, indeed, the only credible response to the sufferings of our neighbours. Scripture says, “…this is what Yahweh asks of you: only this, to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.” [Micah 6:8].
8. It is imperative for the international community, that is to say the AU and particularly SADC, to ensure that the Regime in Zimbabwe particularly the President, understand that the serious concern about democratic rule, respect for human rights, and the promotion of justice and peace is coming not so much from the international community, this concern and call is coming from our kith and kin, our brothers and sisters, namely the people of Zimbabwe first and foremost, the people of Zambia, the people in the SADC Region and indeed the whole of Africa. Whilst it may be true that some of the problems we face in Africa are a result of the colonial past, it is totally unacceptable to continually blame “colonialists and imperialists”, for problems and misery that mistakes made by our leaders in Africa, and in this case Zimbabwe, have caused.
WAY FORWARD
9. We call upon governments in countries bordering Zimbabwe, including ours, to treat the Zimbabweans who are fleeing the violence and social dislocation at home, as genuine refugees who should be treated with the compassion and dignity they deserve. We deplore the abuse that some refugees, especially women, are being subjected to by people in some border areas who are taking advantage of their desperate situation. We ask our dioceses to receive any refugees with open arms of Christian and African hospitality, and to assist in any way those who are suffering so much.
10. It has to be brought to bear on the government of Zimbabwe to ensure that political violence is immediately brought to an end. The necessary processes and procedures for the re-run must be swiftly dealt with in a transparent manner.
11. We encourage the Church in Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and continue to raise a prophetic voice against all cases of social injustice. We urge them to speak candidly to the people to guide them on the way forward for the country.
12. We call upon the people of Zimbabwe to remain steadfast and refuse to be intimidated in their quest for better governance and greater democracy.
We, on our part, shall continue to pray for a peaceful end to the crisis in Zimbabwe. We encourage our sisters and brothers in Zimbabwe not to lose hope because God has never and will never abandon his own.
“I will betroth you to myself forever, betroth you with integrity and justice, with tenderness and love; I will betroth you to myself with faithfulness and you will come to know Yahweh” [Hosea 2:21-22]
10th June 2008
Signed:
Rt. Rev. George Zumaire Lungu Bishop of Chipata, ZEC President
Rt. Rev. Noel O’Regan, SMA Bishop of Ndola, ZEC Vice-President
Most Rev. Telesphore-George Mpundu Archbishop of Lusaka
Most Rev. James Spaita Archbishop of Kasama
Most Rev Medardo J. Mazombwe Archbishop Emeritus of Lusaka
Rt. Rev Aaron A. Chisha Bishop of Mansa
Rt. Rev. Raymond Mpezele Bishop of Livingstone
Rt. Rev. Paul Duffy, OMI Bishop of Mongu
Rt. Rev. Emilio Patriarca Bishop of Monze
Rt. Rev. Alick Banda Bishop of Solwezi
Very Rev. Robert Lavertu, M.Afr. Apostolic Administrator of Mpika
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
RENTALS NOW CHARGED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY
MASVINGO- As the economic meltdown continues, landlords and property owners in Masvingo have resorted to charging rentals in foreign currency. Some tenants in the CBD and residential areas in Masvingo are now paying their monthly rentals in either the South African Rand or the United States Dollar. Office space and residential properties are said to be paid for in foreign currency.
A small business owner in the City who rents two offices revealed that the property owner had asked for rentals to be paid in Rand. He said they have to pay R80 for each office they occupy. He also said they have to pay their rates in forex although they know that the landlord pays the council in local currency. ‘We have been asked to pay R20 for our water and electricity’, said the businessman who refused to give his name for fear of eviction. ‘The situation is even worse in Runyararo where I have to pay R100 per room”, he added. The business man said he has to fork out R400 for the four rooms he is renting plus the R180 for his office rental and rates.
Wezhira spoke to Mr Mutambasere, City Treasurer for Masvingo, who said the City fathers had no knowledge of anyone paying rates in foreign currency. “All our charges are in local currency and all payments are in local Zimbabwe dollar”’ he added.
Another business man in Rujeko B says he also has to pay R100 per month as rental to the property owner who has told them that they can pay in local currency equivalent to the Rand at the prevailing market rate on the day of payment. He also said that their landlord had told them to vacate his premises if they cannot pay. “I cannot afford R10 on my daily takings sometimes. How then do I get R100 and still have to run this small video shop? You have to know that there is no power almost everyday and my line of business has been affected”, moaned the man who also refused to give his name for fear of eviction.
A property owner who is charging in forex said he had no option since the local currency “had become worthless.” He said that charging in forex was a way to cushion himself against the ever rising inflation rate. “This hyper-inflationary period means that our currency cannot be used. I have no other way but to charge forex which I can then save. You cannot have any savings in Zim dollar,” said the property owner who did not want to be named
Other tenants in Rujeko revealed a more shocking way of paying their monthly rentals. Some landlords are now asking for basic commodities as rental payment. A woman who preferred anonymity said she has to give her landlord 2 litres cooking oil, 2 bars of washing soap and 4 kilograms of sugar for every room I rent. “I have been forced to use one room with my two sons. I have nowhere else to go”, said the single parent of two. Her sons are aged 18 and 21.
Another woman from Rujeko said her landlord asked her to pay R100 per room in May. “I cannot afford to buy a R100 on my salary. I am just a sales representative in a small business. I cannot go anywhere else because the issue of paying rentals in forex seems to be the norm nowadays”, she said.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that even pre-schools have joined the ‘forex club’,charging the fees in Rand.
Contacted for comment, police at Masvingo Central referred all queries to Harare. Police Assistant Commissioner Wayne Bvudzijena said it was illegal to charge in forex. “It is a criminal offence to charge rentals in foreign currency. Anyone being charged in forex should report to the police and we will investigate and set traps to catch such people,” said Assistant commissioner Bvudzijena.
Assistant Commissioner said there was however no law prohibiting barter trade for those that are charging groceries and other basic commodities.
A small business owner in the City who rents two offices revealed that the property owner had asked for rentals to be paid in Rand. He said they have to pay R80 for each office they occupy. He also said they have to pay their rates in forex although they know that the landlord pays the council in local currency. ‘We have been asked to pay R20 for our water and electricity’, said the businessman who refused to give his name for fear of eviction. ‘The situation is even worse in Runyararo where I have to pay R100 per room”, he added. The business man said he has to fork out R400 for the four rooms he is renting plus the R180 for his office rental and rates.
Wezhira spoke to Mr Mutambasere, City Treasurer for Masvingo, who said the City fathers had no knowledge of anyone paying rates in foreign currency. “All our charges are in local currency and all payments are in local Zimbabwe dollar”’ he added.
Another business man in Rujeko B says he also has to pay R100 per month as rental to the property owner who has told them that they can pay in local currency equivalent to the Rand at the prevailing market rate on the day of payment. He also said that their landlord had told them to vacate his premises if they cannot pay. “I cannot afford R10 on my daily takings sometimes. How then do I get R100 and still have to run this small video shop? You have to know that there is no power almost everyday and my line of business has been affected”, moaned the man who also refused to give his name for fear of eviction.
A property owner who is charging in forex said he had no option since the local currency “had become worthless.” He said that charging in forex was a way to cushion himself against the ever rising inflation rate. “This hyper-inflationary period means that our currency cannot be used. I have no other way but to charge forex which I can then save. You cannot have any savings in Zim dollar,” said the property owner who did not want to be named
Other tenants in Rujeko revealed a more shocking way of paying their monthly rentals. Some landlords are now asking for basic commodities as rental payment. A woman who preferred anonymity said she has to give her landlord 2 litres cooking oil, 2 bars of washing soap and 4 kilograms of sugar for every room I rent. “I have been forced to use one room with my two sons. I have nowhere else to go”, said the single parent of two. Her sons are aged 18 and 21.
Another woman from Rujeko said her landlord asked her to pay R100 per room in May. “I cannot afford to buy a R100 on my salary. I am just a sales representative in a small business. I cannot go anywhere else because the issue of paying rentals in forex seems to be the norm nowadays”, she said.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that even pre-schools have joined the ‘forex club’,charging the fees in Rand.
Contacted for comment, police at Masvingo Central referred all queries to Harare. Police Assistant Commissioner Wayne Bvudzijena said it was illegal to charge in forex. “It is a criminal offence to charge rentals in foreign currency. Anyone being charged in forex should report to the police and we will investigate and set traps to catch such people,” said Assistant commissioner Bvudzijena.
Assistant Commissioner said there was however no law prohibiting barter trade for those that are charging groceries and other basic commodities.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Address by H.E. Sten Rylander on the World Press Freedom Day Commemorations in Masvingo
Ladies and Gentlemen, Colleagues and Friends,
It is indeed an honour and great pleasure for me to be the guest speaker at this year’s World Press Freedom Day Commemorations here in Masvingo under the theme, “Rebuild the, media, Rebuild Zimbabwe”. One reason for inviting me may be the fact that Sweden has a very long and admired tradition of freedom of the press in the world today – going back to the 1766 Freedom of the Press Act; a law which has undergone a number of modifications since then, but its fundamental core values have always remained the same.
The World Press Freedom Day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1993. Its decision to set aside the date each year for the event stemmed from the 19991 UNESCO General Conference resolution on promotion of press freedom in the world, which recognized that a free, pluralistic and independent press was an essential component of any democratic society. The World Press Freedom Day reminds us all – governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations as well as civil society – of the crucial role a free press plays in strengthening democracies and fostering development around the world.
Freedom of expression is neither a gift nor a political concession; it is a fundamental human right enshrined in article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Restrictions on the freedom of expression hampers the democratic development needed for poverty reduction and human rights for all. It is only through a free press that it is possible to hear the voice of the weak and small. Thus, the observance of the World Press Freedom Day is not only a way of saying ‘yes’ to a free press, but also ‘yes’ to democracy, ‘yes’ to human rights, and ‘yes’ to development.
Colleagues and friends,
We are meeting at a very critical time when Zimbabwe is going through a difficult time of transition. There is a lot of tension, confusion, polarity and anxiety in the country. As we have witnessed, there is a lot of media attention on Zimbabwe. The media in all parts of the world are following the developments and the situation in Zimbabwe with a keen interest. Journalists have a critical role to play during this critical phase in the country. It is important for ideas and information to travel freely and every citizen should have the right to receive and impart information and express her/ himself. In times like now, journalists can give a voice to those who would otherwise remain unheard, tell stories that otherwise would remain untold. They can construct conduits between those trapped in conflict zones and those outside. In conflicts and times of instability, the presence of journalists could prevent atrocities. Journalists can sense a conflict ahead and alert the world to the need for preventive measures to avoid tragedy. During this transition time, the media can positively contribute to providing accurate and relevant information vital for people to make well informed choices and develop informed views. Journalists have a special role in ensuring that every Zimbabwean receives information and has the freedom to express themselves. Denying people accurate and balanced information results in democratic deficits and recessions in development. A free and independent press is the backbone of strong, functioning societies, and a lifeline to progress itself.
It is saddening to note that journalists in Zimbabwe face harassment, intimidation, imprisonment and physical assault. We strongly condemn such attacks and the World Press Freedom Day is also an opportunity for all of us to pay tribute to the media professionals who have faced danger in line of duty over the past year. On this day I salute all the journalists whose pursuit of truth and information has taken them into harm’s way. I applaud their bravery in the face of danger; admire their tenacity in pursuing the facts and pay tribute to their professionalism in very difficult circumstances. Translating the principles of press freedom into practice is no easy matter, and it is sometimes constrained by unlawful confinement, threats and intimidation. We need to strengthen our resolve to ensure the safety and security of journalists throughout the country. The intimidation and harassment of journalists can have a chilling effect on society at thereby stifling dissent and debate. Such attacks must not be tolerated. Their perpetrators must be brought to justice.
Journalism always involves difficult choices but situations of conflict raise the level of intensity, leading journalists into a veritable minefield of issues: objectivity versus propaganda; skepticism versus chauvinism; big picture context versus dramatic images; the struggle by reporters to balance the need for objectivity with the benefits of access from being ‘embedded’ with various sides in the conflict; the need to convey the impact of conflict, particularly on the lives of ordinary people and the vulnerable. Journalists should, however ensure that they are professional and report without fear or favour. I also urge journalists to be courageous in the face of the difficulties and pressures characterizing the present situation in Zimbabwe.
We should use the World Press Freedom Day to call for action on the issue of inflammatory messages or hate media. We have seen that in the past year some sections of the media in Zimbabwe have sometimes used such techniques; and both I myself and the good country which I represent have in some instances been victims of this, e g under the column of Nathaniel Manheru. This has also been extended to other international actors- often misplaced in the category of ‘enemies and detractors’- and to various groups in the country who happen to hold different views. In Rwanda, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the world saw genocide and crimes against humanity, triggered, in part, by nationalistic and ethnocentric hate campaigns, propagated through the mass media. Zimbabwe today can certainly not be compared with these other country situations, but we should nevertheless always keep these extreme cases in mind. More recently, during the Zimbabwean election campaign and thereafter, some media outlets began to use what were widely regarded as inflammatory messages, political manipulation, unsubstantiated claims, and incitement to violence against individuals and groups. Such misuse of information can have very serious consequences. This whole situation could have been worse without the concessions made under the SADC mediation efforts.
We applaud the positive changes in AIPPA that were brought about through the mediation talks. It was indeed a positive step for the various political players to be awarded space through various media outlets. It was however disheartening to witness the bias of state owned media. According to studies made by the Media Monitoring Project of Zimbabwe, whereas there was a slight improvement in the coverage of the opposition, there was still strong bias in favour of the government and the ruling party. We were also concerned by the clampdown on foreign journalists; this reversed the gains which had been made under the mediation talks. We strongly believe that the government should have allowed international journalists to come and witness the elections and give an accurate picture of the situation in the country.
Dear Friends,
There is need for continued and more radical reform in the media sector so that Zimbabwe can catch up with the outside world. There is the proliferation of so-called new media, new technologies and new ways of distributing content; information has become far more accessible. It is also becoming more diverse. Mainstream media reporting, for example, is being supplemented by ‘participatory media’ such as blogs. It is important for Zimbabwe to also benefit from these global trends, but this can prove to be a challenge if the legal framework for the media is still repressive. I also note with serious concern that there is a total lack of community based radios in Zimbabwe. The absence of community based radios hinders development and poverty reduction efforts and we take this day to call for the opening of the waves and the granting of operating licenses to community radio stations.
My government strongly supports the freedom of expression and the media in general world. In Zimbabwe Sweden has supported MISA and various other media organizations. We are currently in the process of designing support to the Voluntary Media Council Of Zimbabwe, which we envisage will ensure self regulation within the media sector. We remain committed to supporting media organizations in Zimbabwe and we align ourselves with all on-going efforts by the international community to support the growth and development of a free and professional media in Zimbabwe.
I urge the government to reaffirm its commitment to the right to ‘seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers’, as set out in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I also would like to assure the media fraternity in Zimbabwe and the generality of Zimbabweans that we are in solidarity with them during these difficult times. Together we will rebuild the media, together we will rebuild Zimbabwe.
Thank you, siyabonga, tatenda!.
It is indeed an honour and great pleasure for me to be the guest speaker at this year’s World Press Freedom Day Commemorations here in Masvingo under the theme, “Rebuild the, media, Rebuild Zimbabwe”. One reason for inviting me may be the fact that Sweden has a very long and admired tradition of freedom of the press in the world today – going back to the 1766 Freedom of the Press Act; a law which has undergone a number of modifications since then, but its fundamental core values have always remained the same.
The World Press Freedom Day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1993. Its decision to set aside the date each year for the event stemmed from the 19991 UNESCO General Conference resolution on promotion of press freedom in the world, which recognized that a free, pluralistic and independent press was an essential component of any democratic society. The World Press Freedom Day reminds us all – governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations as well as civil society – of the crucial role a free press plays in strengthening democracies and fostering development around the world.
Freedom of expression is neither a gift nor a political concession; it is a fundamental human right enshrined in article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Restrictions on the freedom of expression hampers the democratic development needed for poverty reduction and human rights for all. It is only through a free press that it is possible to hear the voice of the weak and small. Thus, the observance of the World Press Freedom Day is not only a way of saying ‘yes’ to a free press, but also ‘yes’ to democracy, ‘yes’ to human rights, and ‘yes’ to development.
Colleagues and friends,
We are meeting at a very critical time when Zimbabwe is going through a difficult time of transition. There is a lot of tension, confusion, polarity and anxiety in the country. As we have witnessed, there is a lot of media attention on Zimbabwe. The media in all parts of the world are following the developments and the situation in Zimbabwe with a keen interest. Journalists have a critical role to play during this critical phase in the country. It is important for ideas and information to travel freely and every citizen should have the right to receive and impart information and express her/ himself. In times like now, journalists can give a voice to those who would otherwise remain unheard, tell stories that otherwise would remain untold. They can construct conduits between those trapped in conflict zones and those outside. In conflicts and times of instability, the presence of journalists could prevent atrocities. Journalists can sense a conflict ahead and alert the world to the need for preventive measures to avoid tragedy. During this transition time, the media can positively contribute to providing accurate and relevant information vital for people to make well informed choices and develop informed views. Journalists have a special role in ensuring that every Zimbabwean receives information and has the freedom to express themselves. Denying people accurate and balanced information results in democratic deficits and recessions in development. A free and independent press is the backbone of strong, functioning societies, and a lifeline to progress itself.
It is saddening to note that journalists in Zimbabwe face harassment, intimidation, imprisonment and physical assault. We strongly condemn such attacks and the World Press Freedom Day is also an opportunity for all of us to pay tribute to the media professionals who have faced danger in line of duty over the past year. On this day I salute all the journalists whose pursuit of truth and information has taken them into harm’s way. I applaud their bravery in the face of danger; admire their tenacity in pursuing the facts and pay tribute to their professionalism in very difficult circumstances. Translating the principles of press freedom into practice is no easy matter, and it is sometimes constrained by unlawful confinement, threats and intimidation. We need to strengthen our resolve to ensure the safety and security of journalists throughout the country. The intimidation and harassment of journalists can have a chilling effect on society at thereby stifling dissent and debate. Such attacks must not be tolerated. Their perpetrators must be brought to justice.
Journalism always involves difficult choices but situations of conflict raise the level of intensity, leading journalists into a veritable minefield of issues: objectivity versus propaganda; skepticism versus chauvinism; big picture context versus dramatic images; the struggle by reporters to balance the need for objectivity with the benefits of access from being ‘embedded’ with various sides in the conflict; the need to convey the impact of conflict, particularly on the lives of ordinary people and the vulnerable. Journalists should, however ensure that they are professional and report without fear or favour. I also urge journalists to be courageous in the face of the difficulties and pressures characterizing the present situation in Zimbabwe.
We should use the World Press Freedom Day to call for action on the issue of inflammatory messages or hate media. We have seen that in the past year some sections of the media in Zimbabwe have sometimes used such techniques; and both I myself and the good country which I represent have in some instances been victims of this, e g under the column of Nathaniel Manheru. This has also been extended to other international actors- often misplaced in the category of ‘enemies and detractors’- and to various groups in the country who happen to hold different views. In Rwanda, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the world saw genocide and crimes against humanity, triggered, in part, by nationalistic and ethnocentric hate campaigns, propagated through the mass media. Zimbabwe today can certainly not be compared with these other country situations, but we should nevertheless always keep these extreme cases in mind. More recently, during the Zimbabwean election campaign and thereafter, some media outlets began to use what were widely regarded as inflammatory messages, political manipulation, unsubstantiated claims, and incitement to violence against individuals and groups. Such misuse of information can have very serious consequences. This whole situation could have been worse without the concessions made under the SADC mediation efforts.
We applaud the positive changes in AIPPA that were brought about through the mediation talks. It was indeed a positive step for the various political players to be awarded space through various media outlets. It was however disheartening to witness the bias of state owned media. According to studies made by the Media Monitoring Project of Zimbabwe, whereas there was a slight improvement in the coverage of the opposition, there was still strong bias in favour of the government and the ruling party. We were also concerned by the clampdown on foreign journalists; this reversed the gains which had been made under the mediation talks. We strongly believe that the government should have allowed international journalists to come and witness the elections and give an accurate picture of the situation in the country.
Dear Friends,
There is need for continued and more radical reform in the media sector so that Zimbabwe can catch up with the outside world. There is the proliferation of so-called new media, new technologies and new ways of distributing content; information has become far more accessible. It is also becoming more diverse. Mainstream media reporting, for example, is being supplemented by ‘participatory media’ such as blogs. It is important for Zimbabwe to also benefit from these global trends, but this can prove to be a challenge if the legal framework for the media is still repressive. I also note with serious concern that there is a total lack of community based radios in Zimbabwe. The absence of community based radios hinders development and poverty reduction efforts and we take this day to call for the opening of the waves and the granting of operating licenses to community radio stations.
My government strongly supports the freedom of expression and the media in general world. In Zimbabwe Sweden has supported MISA and various other media organizations. We are currently in the process of designing support to the Voluntary Media Council Of Zimbabwe, which we envisage will ensure self regulation within the media sector. We remain committed to supporting media organizations in Zimbabwe and we align ourselves with all on-going efforts by the international community to support the growth and development of a free and professional media in Zimbabwe.
I urge the government to reaffirm its commitment to the right to ‘seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers’, as set out in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I also would like to assure the media fraternity in Zimbabwe and the generality of Zimbabweans that we are in solidarity with them during these difficult times. Together we will rebuild the media, together we will rebuild Zimbabwe.
Thank you, siyabonga, tatenda!.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
MDC Will Win, Says Matutu
The sitting Member of the House of Assembly in Masvingo urban, a segment of the former Masvingo Central constituency, Tongai Matutu, is confident that short of a stolen election the Movement for Democratic Change will emerge victorious in the harmonized elections that will be held this Saturday 29th March 2008. Speaking to Wezhira on Wednesday, Matutu said this election would not only produce surprises for the ruling party but would also usher a new era where the MDC would assume the reigns of power.
“We have been holding meetings in the wards where the purpose was not to canvas for support but to encourage the electorate on the need to cast their votes. The other reason for the meetings was to educate the electorate about the number of ballot papers which they will receive and the need to vote correctly. The groundwork was done a long time ago and there is no reason why the MDC should lose this election,” Matutu said.
Matutu added that the ruling party could take the rural electorate for granted at its own risk as voting patterns would certainly show displeasure with the party which has failed dismally to address pressing issues that have adversely affected the general populace for a long time.
“Issues that used to affect the urban population have now crossed over to the rural areas. Businesses have not only come to a standstill but have actually closed down. The rural folk have now resorted to buying from the same black market that is thriving in the urban centres. They are now acutely aware of the need to change the current system and bring in a new government that will change their fortunes for the better. Only fools can take it for granted that they are guaranteed of these people’s votes after failing to address their bread and butter issues for such a long time. Without naming constituencies we are guaranteed of victory in a number of them in the rural areas. Masvingo urban is a foregone conclusion and there is no question about it,” Matutu said.
Speaking with confidence Matutu said the MDC leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, would undoubtedly form the next government in the country. He was adamant that short of stealing the election the ruling party had no chance of winning the election.
“I have personally forwarded a formal complaint to the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) after members of the uniformed forces approached me informing me that they had refused to vote through the postal ballot since they could not vote for candidates of their choice. It had also come to my attention that some of the forces were victimised in previous elections after their superiors had opened their postal ballots and discovered that they had voted in favour of the opposition. This time around we have said there shall be no polling stations in areas where people cannot cast their votes in a free atmosphere. As such no polling stations are located at army barracks,” he said.
Matutu said the government had put some members of the police force on high alert in a way which showed that they were already aware of the outcome of the election. Members of the police Support Unit, Riot Squad and the Army have been prominently present in the city in the last few days. A recent snap survey by Wezhira also showed that most of the districts in Masvingo Province had shifted their allegiance to the opposition ahead of this Saturday’s general election.
“We have been holding meetings in the wards where the purpose was not to canvas for support but to encourage the electorate on the need to cast their votes. The other reason for the meetings was to educate the electorate about the number of ballot papers which they will receive and the need to vote correctly. The groundwork was done a long time ago and there is no reason why the MDC should lose this election,” Matutu said.
Matutu added that the ruling party could take the rural electorate for granted at its own risk as voting patterns would certainly show displeasure with the party which has failed dismally to address pressing issues that have adversely affected the general populace for a long time.
“Issues that used to affect the urban population have now crossed over to the rural areas. Businesses have not only come to a standstill but have actually closed down. The rural folk have now resorted to buying from the same black market that is thriving in the urban centres. They are now acutely aware of the need to change the current system and bring in a new government that will change their fortunes for the better. Only fools can take it for granted that they are guaranteed of these people’s votes after failing to address their bread and butter issues for such a long time. Without naming constituencies we are guaranteed of victory in a number of them in the rural areas. Masvingo urban is a foregone conclusion and there is no question about it,” Matutu said.
Speaking with confidence Matutu said the MDC leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, would undoubtedly form the next government in the country. He was adamant that short of stealing the election the ruling party had no chance of winning the election.
“I have personally forwarded a formal complaint to the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) after members of the uniformed forces approached me informing me that they had refused to vote through the postal ballot since they could not vote for candidates of their choice. It had also come to my attention that some of the forces were victimised in previous elections after their superiors had opened their postal ballots and discovered that they had voted in favour of the opposition. This time around we have said there shall be no polling stations in areas where people cannot cast their votes in a free atmosphere. As such no polling stations are located at army barracks,” he said.
Matutu said the government had put some members of the police force on high alert in a way which showed that they were already aware of the outcome of the election. Members of the police Support Unit, Riot Squad and the Army have been prominently present in the city in the last few days. A recent snap survey by Wezhira also showed that most of the districts in Masvingo Province had shifted their allegiance to the opposition ahead of this Saturday’s general election.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Makoni Blasts Land Reform Programme
Former ZANU-PF politburo member and Finance minister Dr Simba Makoni dismissed the government’s agriculture mechanization programme phase three as a mere political gimmick aimed at luring supporters ahead of the elections.
Addressing a fairly attended star rally in Masvingo at Mucheke stadium last Saturday, Dr Makoni told the gathering that the people of Zimbabwe should be empowered so that they could be able to buy their own equipment instead of relying on government handouts.
Dr Makoni attacked the government accusing the government of favouritism when dealing with resources that should be distributed on the basis of merit and competence.
“After all the equipment is only given to ZANU PF sympathizers. If you are not ZANU PF no matter how good you are in farming, you won’t access the equipment. Even the food has become ZANU PF ‘campaign material’ as you have to produce membership cards to get it”,said Dr Makoni.
“I realized that I could no longer walk in darkness and on February 5, I preferred to follow the light,” said Dr Simba Makoni referring to the day he announced his plan to stand as an independent presidential candidate.
Apart from being uneconomic and illogical, Dr Makoni said that mechanization programme had cultivated great enmity among the general populace across the whole country.
“If the whole village is supposed to share one scotch cart, what would happen if they all want to use it at the same time? Isn’t that seeding hatred among the people? All that should be done is to create an environment where people access what they want on the market. It becomes unfair if there are no ploughs, scotch carts, fertilizers and all agricultural equipments on the market yet a few people are getting all that from a government” he said.
Dr Makoni lamented the fact that equipment was only made available at the end of the season instead of the beginning of the season where it could have helped boost production.
“What ZANU PF is doing is to reward their friends and relatives. The presidential scholarships now target their children. If you are not a ZANU PF supporter, no matter how intelligent you are, you will never get the scholarship,” he said.
Dr Makoni promised to carry out a land audit that would take land from multiple owners, resuscitate the health sector that has collapsed and to get the country’s economy on recovery path among other issues.
Addressing a fairly attended star rally in Masvingo at Mucheke stadium last Saturday, Dr Makoni told the gathering that the people of Zimbabwe should be empowered so that they could be able to buy their own equipment instead of relying on government handouts.
Dr Makoni attacked the government accusing the government of favouritism when dealing with resources that should be distributed on the basis of merit and competence.
“After all the equipment is only given to ZANU PF sympathizers. If you are not ZANU PF no matter how good you are in farming, you won’t access the equipment. Even the food has become ZANU PF ‘campaign material’ as you have to produce membership cards to get it”,said Dr Makoni.
“I realized that I could no longer walk in darkness and on February 5, I preferred to follow the light,” said Dr Simba Makoni referring to the day he announced his plan to stand as an independent presidential candidate.
Apart from being uneconomic and illogical, Dr Makoni said that mechanization programme had cultivated great enmity among the general populace across the whole country.
“If the whole village is supposed to share one scotch cart, what would happen if they all want to use it at the same time? Isn’t that seeding hatred among the people? All that should be done is to create an environment where people access what they want on the market. It becomes unfair if there are no ploughs, scotch carts, fertilizers and all agricultural equipments on the market yet a few people are getting all that from a government” he said.
Dr Makoni lamented the fact that equipment was only made available at the end of the season instead of the beginning of the season where it could have helped boost production.
“What ZANU PF is doing is to reward their friends and relatives. The presidential scholarships now target their children. If you are not a ZANU PF supporter, no matter how intelligent you are, you will never get the scholarship,” he said.
Dr Makoni promised to carry out a land audit that would take land from multiple owners, resuscitate the health sector that has collapsed and to get the country’s economy on recovery path among other issues.
MDC Tsvangirai attracts huge crowd
Mr Morgan Tsvangirai, Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) main faction leader proved his popularity in Zimbabwean politics last Sunday when his star rally at Mucheke Stadium attracted over 15 000 people.
A few hours earlier at the same venue Dr Simba Makoni held a star rally at the same venue that attracted slightly above 5000 people.
Analysts said Tsvangirai attracted more people at Mucheke Stadium than Makoni as he already had put some structures on the ground.
Even the old people at the MDC rally said they had never witnessed an opposition party attracting a huge crowd like what happened on Sunday.
Addressing people, Mr Tsvangirai said that victory was certain as Zanu PF has been exhausted of all ideas that can help the people.
“No one in his right senses would vote for Zanu PF. Zanu PF have nothing new to offer the people. MDC is the only party which has the solutions to the current crisis. What 25 years of war failed to do, Zanu PF’s 25 years of ruling did the worse,” he said.
Speaker after speaker blasted the ruling party for incompetence and being accountable for the economic collapse in the country.
With the country on its knees, Mr Tsvangirai believes that the forthcoming elections are just a formality as God has already approved his victory.
“Rwendo rwuno hazvikoni nekuti ndezvashe,” ( this time it’s inevitable because it is of God), he said.
Mr Tsvangirai ruled out the election cheating and rigging processes saying that some senior members from Zanu PF’s high ranks have already tipped him on how to guard against rigging.
He also said that senior Zanu PF officials approached him on several occasions praising him for giving pressure on President Mugabe saying that Zanu PF is already split because most people in the ruling party also need the change of government and are ready for it.
“They come to me and encourage me to unleash more pressure on Zanu PF. They are tired of Zanu PF themselves and they even tip me on how to guard against election rigging,” he said.
In the new Zimbabwe, Mr Tsvangirai promised free primary education, respect of the rule of law, opening investment opportunities, professionalism among all civil servants and restoration of dignity of the people of Zimbabwe.
Within the first two years in office, Mr Tsvangirai’s government would make sure that a new constitution which is people driven will be effected.
“Most people think that I will recruit new police, soldiers and CIOs. No. I will only make sure that these people become more professional and be satisfied with their salaries. I will upgrade their living and working standards.
“All problems will be solved in the first two years,” Mr Tsvangirai promised.
Despite being exposed into direct sunshine, supporters interviewed said that they never regretted going to the rally. The MDC held a number of successful rallies across Masvingo province during the weekend.
A few hours earlier at the same venue Dr Simba Makoni held a star rally at the same venue that attracted slightly above 5000 people.
Analysts said Tsvangirai attracted more people at Mucheke Stadium than Makoni as he already had put some structures on the ground.
Even the old people at the MDC rally said they had never witnessed an opposition party attracting a huge crowd like what happened on Sunday.
Addressing people, Mr Tsvangirai said that victory was certain as Zanu PF has been exhausted of all ideas that can help the people.
“No one in his right senses would vote for Zanu PF. Zanu PF have nothing new to offer the people. MDC is the only party which has the solutions to the current crisis. What 25 years of war failed to do, Zanu PF’s 25 years of ruling did the worse,” he said.
Speaker after speaker blasted the ruling party for incompetence and being accountable for the economic collapse in the country.
With the country on its knees, Mr Tsvangirai believes that the forthcoming elections are just a formality as God has already approved his victory.
“Rwendo rwuno hazvikoni nekuti ndezvashe,” ( this time it’s inevitable because it is of God), he said.
Mr Tsvangirai ruled out the election cheating and rigging processes saying that some senior members from Zanu PF’s high ranks have already tipped him on how to guard against rigging.
He also said that senior Zanu PF officials approached him on several occasions praising him for giving pressure on President Mugabe saying that Zanu PF is already split because most people in the ruling party also need the change of government and are ready for it.
“They come to me and encourage me to unleash more pressure on Zanu PF. They are tired of Zanu PF themselves and they even tip me on how to guard against election rigging,” he said.
In the new Zimbabwe, Mr Tsvangirai promised free primary education, respect of the rule of law, opening investment opportunities, professionalism among all civil servants and restoration of dignity of the people of Zimbabwe.
Within the first two years in office, Mr Tsvangirai’s government would make sure that a new constitution which is people driven will be effected.
“Most people think that I will recruit new police, soldiers and CIOs. No. I will only make sure that these people become more professional and be satisfied with their salaries. I will upgrade their living and working standards.
“All problems will be solved in the first two years,” Mr Tsvangirai promised.
Despite being exposed into direct sunshine, supporters interviewed said that they never regretted going to the rally. The MDC held a number of successful rallies across Masvingo province during the weekend.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Senator orders release of suspects from police cells
MASVINGO—IN what could be described as an apparent travesty of justice, a Senator here, working hand in hand with a local chief, flexed his political muscle and allegedly ordered the release of two suspects from cells-leaving another two-who were arrested in bloody clashes over the Charumbira chieftainship wrangle in Mushandike area, 25 kilometers out of town.
Dzikamai Mavhaire, who is also the ZANU PF Provincial Commissar and Politburo member, is said to have instructed the Officer in Charge at Masvingo Rural Police Station to release two suspects last week who were arrested in Chief Fortune Charumbira’s area following an orgy of violence there, as the chieftainship wrangle over who is the legitimate heir to the throne continues.
Chief Fortune Charumbira, president of the Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs, who is sympathetic to the ruling ZANU PF party, has had a long standing dispute with the Bere clan, who, from his installation, opposed his reign, accusing him of having stolen the throne from them.
Sources close to the developments in the area said that the two rival and antagonistic camps from Bere and Charumbira clan were involved in brutal clashes that saw four people being arrested.
The four, Rabnos Konde and his son Phineas, who belong to the Charumbira faction and have since been released from police cells, fought against Lovemore Diza and Linos Bere from the Bere clan, who are still in police custody.
Their ages could not be ascertained as the police’s press and liaison office remained mum over the issue. They also refused to comment on the issue, which is believed to be very sensitive.
However, A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) top brass stationed at Masvingo rural police station said Dzikamai Mavhaire, in his capacity as a Senator for Masvingo Central, stormed the base last week after hearing complaints from Chief Charumbira that some of his lieutenants were arrested after being involved in a fight with his rivals from the Bere clan.
“We were scalded by Senator Mavhaire who ordered the immediate release of Konde and his son Phineas, while saying we should further the detention of the other two from the Bere faction,” said the police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The officer said that the Senator had usurped their powers as he is now dictating the pace at the police station.
“Mavhaire is now acting like the Officer-In-Charge at our police station as he is now calling the shots, deciding who should be arrested and who should not,” added the source.
While both Mavhaire and Chief Charumbira could not be contacted for a comment, sources in Mushandike also confirmed the incident after seeing Konde and his son free, while their rivals were still detained by Wednesday this week.
Violence continues to rear its ugly head in the Chieftainship wrangle in Mushandike following the dog fighting over the throne currently held by Chief Fortune Charumbira. At one time, the controversial chief detained his rivals at his home, while in another; he vandalized their irrigation pipes in sabotage.
Surprisingly, in all the cases, Chief Charumbira just escaped untouched by the law enforcement agents or the country’s justice delivery system, leaving many people here saying that he is above the law.
Dzikamai Mavhaire, who is also the ZANU PF Provincial Commissar and Politburo member, is said to have instructed the Officer in Charge at Masvingo Rural Police Station to release two suspects last week who were arrested in Chief Fortune Charumbira’s area following an orgy of violence there, as the chieftainship wrangle over who is the legitimate heir to the throne continues.
Chief Fortune Charumbira, president of the Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs, who is sympathetic to the ruling ZANU PF party, has had a long standing dispute with the Bere clan, who, from his installation, opposed his reign, accusing him of having stolen the throne from them.
Sources close to the developments in the area said that the two rival and antagonistic camps from Bere and Charumbira clan were involved in brutal clashes that saw four people being arrested.
The four, Rabnos Konde and his son Phineas, who belong to the Charumbira faction and have since been released from police cells, fought against Lovemore Diza and Linos Bere from the Bere clan, who are still in police custody.
Their ages could not be ascertained as the police’s press and liaison office remained mum over the issue. They also refused to comment on the issue, which is believed to be very sensitive.
However, A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) top brass stationed at Masvingo rural police station said Dzikamai Mavhaire, in his capacity as a Senator for Masvingo Central, stormed the base last week after hearing complaints from Chief Charumbira that some of his lieutenants were arrested after being involved in a fight with his rivals from the Bere clan.
“We were scalded by Senator Mavhaire who ordered the immediate release of Konde and his son Phineas, while saying we should further the detention of the other two from the Bere faction,” said the police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The officer said that the Senator had usurped their powers as he is now dictating the pace at the police station.
“Mavhaire is now acting like the Officer-In-Charge at our police station as he is now calling the shots, deciding who should be arrested and who should not,” added the source.
While both Mavhaire and Chief Charumbira could not be contacted for a comment, sources in Mushandike also confirmed the incident after seeing Konde and his son free, while their rivals were still detained by Wednesday this week.
Violence continues to rear its ugly head in the Chieftainship wrangle in Mushandike following the dog fighting over the throne currently held by Chief Fortune Charumbira. At one time, the controversial chief detained his rivals at his home, while in another; he vandalized their irrigation pipes in sabotage.
Surprisingly, in all the cases, Chief Charumbira just escaped untouched by the law enforcement agents or the country’s justice delivery system, leaving many people here saying that he is above the law.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
What is Wezhira Community Radio?
Welcome all to Wezhira!
Wezhira, as people from Masvingo province are popurlarly known in Zimbabwe, is the name for the community radio, lauched in 2006 and registered as a trust in 2007.
Masvingo province has seven administrative districts with a population of more than 1,7 million people. Three quarters of the population lives in the rural areas and need a reliable source of information. The other quarter that lives in the urban centres also need to be informed about events that take place in the province and beyond.
That is why Wezhira Community Radio was formed. Its main objective is to give an altrernative voice to the people in the province who rely on newspapers which are not easily accessible to the people and whose escalating costs have become prohibitive.
Wezhira, as people from Masvingo province are popurlarly known in Zimbabwe, is the name for the community radio, lauched in 2006 and registered as a trust in 2007.
Masvingo province has seven administrative districts with a population of more than 1,7 million people. Three quarters of the population lives in the rural areas and need a reliable source of information. The other quarter that lives in the urban centres also need to be informed about events that take place in the province and beyond.
That is why Wezhira Community Radio was formed. Its main objective is to give an altrernative voice to the people in the province who rely on newspapers which are not easily accessible to the people and whose escalating costs have become prohibitive.
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