HARARE – Government has indicated it is open to reviewing vehicle radio licence fees following growing concerns over affordability, as part of broader efforts to ease the cost of doing business in Zimbabwe. Speaking during a Question and Answer session in the National Assembly, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Zhemu Soda said authorities are willing to revisit the current fee structure if the public deems it unsustainable. “Our listening Government will continue to review fees in line with the ease of doing business mantra,” Soda said. Under the existing framework, private motorists pay approximately US$23 per quarter (US$92 annually) for radio licences, while corporate-owned vehicles are charged US$50 per quarter (US$200 annually). The fees are administered through the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), which relies on licence revenue to support operations and infrastructure development. The minister’s remarks follow recent reforms introduced in January 2026, which saw significant reductions in household broadcasting licence fees after widespread public complaints. Authorities slashed television licence fees from US$100 to US$24, while urban radio licences were reduced from US$10 to US$5. The government said the changes were aimed at improving compliance, lowering administrative costs, and aligning charges with citizens’ economic realities. Soda said the reforms are part of a broader policy direction led by Emmerson Mnangagwa to remove high regulatory costs and ease financial pressure on businesses and households. “The directive is to eliminate punitive fees and create a more business-friendly environment,” he said. Economic analyst Victor Bhoroma said reviewing vehicle licence fees could have a positive ripple effect. “Transport costs feed into almost every sector of the economy. Lowering these fees could help reduce operational costs for businesses and ease pressure on consumers,” he said. However, experts caution that any reduction in licence fees must be balanced against the need to sustain public broadcasting. ZBC has increasingly relied on licence revenue to fund operations, upgrade infrastructure, and support content production. Media analyst Rashweat Mukundu noted that improving compliance could offset lower fees. “If fees are affordable, more people are likely to pay. That can stabilise revenue while easing the burden on citizens,” he said. While no immediate changes have been announced, Soda’s comments suggest that further adjustments could be considered depending on public feedback. Motorists and businesses are expected to play a key role in shaping the outcome as the government weighs affordability concerns against fiscal needs. Zimbabwe radio licence fees

HARARE – Fresh details have emerged surrounding decades of mysterious deaths in Chief Mola’s area in Nyaminyami Rural District, Kariba, with officials and health experts now pointing to chronic Schistosomiasis, commonly known as bilharzia, as the likely cause. For years, residents have reported a disturbing pattern in which victims develop swollen abdomens and vomit blood before dying, sparking fear and speculation across the community. Former Kariba legislator Isaac Mackenzie said the problem has persisted for decades without sustained intervention. Current MP Shine Collins Gwangwaba echoed the concern, revealing he has personally witnessed more than 40 suspected cases over the years. “This is not a new issue. We need urgent and coordinated government action to address it,” he said. Veteran journalist Shame Makoshori described the situation as a “systemic failure,” noting that repeated warnings have not translated into lasting solutions. Medical experts say advanced, untreated schistosomiasis can cause severe internal damage, particularly to the liver and intestines. Dr. Nyasha Mupfumi, a public health specialist, explained the symptoms. “In chronic cases, bilharzia can lead to liver fibrosis and portal hypertension, which may result in internal bleeding. This can explain the blood-vomiting reported by villagers,” she said. The disease is typically contracted through contact with contaminated freshwater, where parasitic larvae penetrate the skin. Health authorities are now considering interventions such as mass drug administration programmes and specialised treatment for advanced cases. However, progress has been slow due to institutional challenges. The Zimbabwe National Water Authority said the issue falls outside its mandate, while the Environmental Management Agency has urged caution until the diagnosis is formally confirmed. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has reportedly begun assessments in affected areas, although funding constraints remain a major obstacle. Residents in Nyaminyami say the uncertainty has created anxiety, with many unsure whether they are at risk. A local villager, who declined to be named, said families have lived with the fear for years. “We have seen people fall sick and die like this for a long time. We need answers and treatment,” the resident said. Public health experts stress that schistosomiasis is both preventable and treatable, particularly if detected early. “Access to clean water, sanitation, and regular treatment programmes can drastically reduce infections,” Dr. Mupfumi added. As investigations continue, the situation in Kariba highlights broader challenges in addressing rural health crises in Zimbabwe, where limited resources and delayed interventions can allow preventable diseases to persist for decades. For now, communities in Chief Mola’s area remain in limbo, awaiting definitive answers and urgent action. Kariba mystery deaths

Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe HARARE – Jailed businessmen Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe are awaiting a Supreme Court ruling on whether they will be granted leave to appeal their convictions and sentences in a high-profile US$7 million fraud case linked to the Presidential Goats Pass-On Scheme. The pair appeared before George Chiweshe at the Supreme Court on Tuesday, where arguments for permission to appeal were heard. Justice Chiweshe reserved judgment, indicating that a ruling will be delivered after reviewing submissions from both parties. Mpofu is currently serving a 19-year prison sentence, with 10 years suspended on condition that he repays US$2 million. Chimombe, on the other hand, was sentenced to 14 years, with part of his sentence suspended upon repayment of more than US$964,000. Combined, the two face 33 years in prison if their appeal bid fails. The convictions arise from their involvement in the Presidential Goats Pass-On Scheme, a rural livestock empowerment programme aimed at boosting livelihoods. Prosecutors argued that the two businessmen defrauded millions of dollars through: Fake contracts Phantom beneficiaries Financial mismanagement The scheme, designed to benefit rural communities, instead became the centre of one of Zimbabwe’s most closely followed corruption scandals. The High Court had earlier dismissed their attempt to appeal, describing their arguments as “frivolous and vexatious,” effectively closing one legal avenue for the duo. Legal analyst Advocate Memory Ncube said the Supreme Court stage is critical. “Leave to appeal is not automatic. The applicants must demonstrate that there are reasonable prospects of success or that there are compelling reasons for the appeal to be heard,” she said. The Supreme Court will now determine whether Mpofu and Chimombe can proceed with a full appeal against both conviction and sentence. If leave is granted, the case will move to a substantive hearing where the merits of their conviction will be re-examined. If denied, the current sentences will stand. The case has drawn national attention due to its links to a government-backed empowerment programme and concerns over accountability in public funds management. Anti-corruption expert Rejoice Ngwenya said the outcome could set an important precedent. “This case speaks to the integrity of public programmes. A firm stance by the courts reinforces accountability and deters abuse of state resources,” he said. With judgment now reserved, Mpofu and Chimombe remain behind bars as they await a decision that could determine whether they get another chance to challenge their convictions. Mpofu Chimombe case

HARARE – Paul Tungwarara has emerged as a visible figure in internal mobilisation efforts linked to the “ED 2030” agenda within ZANU PF, as debate intensifies over proposals to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond current constitutional limits. Tungwarara has recently attracted attention for his active engagement at party events and grassroots meetings, where he has consistently emphasised unity within the party leadership, including Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi. Political analysts say such messaging aligns with longstanding ZANU-PF traditions that prioritise cohesion within the party’s top leadership. The “ED 2030” campaign, an informal push by some party members to extend Mnangagwa’s leadership has sparked both support and resistance within political circles. Supporters argue that continuity would sustain economic and governance reforms, while critics warn that any extension would require constitutional changes and could undermine democratic principles. The debate is closely linked to discussions around the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3, which has drawn scrutiny from civil society groups and legal experts. Observers note that Tungwarara has been involved in engaging party structures and legislators as part of broader mobilisation efforts. “Tungwarara appears to be positioning himself as an organiser rather than just a spokesperson,” said political analyst Dr. Tendai Rukuni. “That kind of groundwork can be influential in shaping internal party dynamics.” However, there is no official confirmation from ZANU-PF leadership that any constitutional amendment to extend presidential terms is being formally pursued. The ED 2030 narrative has triggered varied responses nationally. Opposition figures and some civil society organisations have strongly opposed any move to extend presidential term limits, citing the need to uphold the Constitution. Meanwhile, sections of the ruling party’s grassroots structures have reportedly expressed support for continuity, though these sentiments remain contested. Tungwarara’s recent appointment to the ZANU PF Central Committee is seen by some analysts as a sign of his growing influence within the party. As discussions around governance reforms and constitutional amendments continue, political observers say the coming months will be critical in determining whether the ED 2030 concept gains formal traction or remains an internal factional campaign. Tungwarara ED 2030

HARARE – Civil servants in Zimbabwe will begin receiving salaries under a revised remuneration structure starting Tuesday, 14 April, as the Government moves to align public sector pay with job grades, skills, and responsibilities. Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo confirmed the development, saying the new framework is designed to create a more structured and equitable salary system across the public service. Under the revised structure, salaries will range from approximately US$370 for lower grades to nearly US$900 for senior positions. Entry-level workers in Grade A3 are expected to earn between US$370 and US$375, while employees in the B band (B1 to B5) will receive salaries ranging from US$376 to US$435. Mid-level civil servants in the C band will earn between US$463 and US$536, reflecting incremental adjustments based on experience and qualifications. At the upper end, senior employees in the D band will see salaries ranging from US$724 to US$897. “The structure ensures that remuneration is aligned with skills, qualifications and responsibilities across the public service,” Moyo said. A key feature of the new salary model is the guaranteed United States dollar component. The g overnment has set a minimum of US$320 to be paid in hard currency to all civil servants, with the remaining portion paid in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). However, workers have raised concerns over the taxation of the USD component, which reduces the effective take-home pay. Economist Dr. Prosper Chitambara said the blended currency model reflects ongoing macroeconomic adjustments. “While the USD component provides stability, the real value of salaries will depend on inflation trends and exchange rate movements affecting the ZiG portion,” he said. The new salary framework comes amid long-standing negotiations between the Government and public sector workers over wages, working conditions, and currency stability. Civil servants have previously called for full USD salaries, citing the rising cost of living and erosion of local currency value. Labour analyst Linda Mavhunga said the latest adjustment represents a compromise. “This structure attempts to balance fiscal limitations with the need to cushion workers against economic pressures,” she said. While the revised salaries are expected to bring some relief, analysts say reactions among civil servants are likely to be mixed, particularly regarding the ZiG component and taxation levels. As implementation begins, attention will shift to how the new structure performs in practice, particularly whether it improves worker morale and retention in critical sectors such as health and education. The Government is expected to continue monitoring the framework, with the possibility of further adjustments depending on economic conditions and stakeholder feedback. Zimbabwe civil servants salaries 2026

HARARE – Families in Zimbabwe’s remote Binga District are resorting to extreme and improvised methods to preserve the bodies of deceased relatives amid a prolonged breakdown of mortuary services at Binga District Hospital. Residents say the hospital mortuary has been largely non-functional for years, citing persistent electricity outages and unrepaired refrigeration equipment as the main causes. With no reliable mortuary services, grieving families are turning to unconventional methods to slow decomposition, including covering bodies with wet sand, wrapping them in banana leaves, and, in some cases, using fertiliser. Community members describe the situation as both distressing and undignified. “We are forced to do what we can under very difficult conditions,” said one resident. “Sometimes we cannot even wait for relatives to arrive.” Many families are now compelled to bury loved ones within hours, while others attempt to preserve bodies for several days using these improvised techniques, often with limited success. The crisis has drawn national attention after Fanuel Cumanzala raised the matter in Parliament, formally requesting a response from the Ministry of Health and Child Care. However, the inquiry has reportedly gone unanswered since early March, raising concerns about delays in addressing critical rural health infrastructure challenges. The mortuary breakdown reflects wider systemic issues at the hospital, including stalled rehabilitation efforts and inadequate infrastructure. Health systems analyst Dr. Miriam Zhou said the situation highlights deep inequalities in service delivery. “Access to basic services like mortuaries is often taken for granted in urban areas, but in rural districts, infrastructure gaps can create humanitarian challenges,” she said. The lack of functional mortuary services has disrupted traditional funeral practices and placed emotional and logistical strain on families. Relatives travelling from distant areas such as Bulawayo are often unable to attend burials in time, forcing families to proceed without them. “This is not just a technical issue it affects dignity, culture and the grieving process,” Dr. Zhou added. Local leaders and residents are now calling for urgent government intervention to restore mortuary services and improve overall healthcare infrastructure in the district. Public health expert Dr. Tapiwa Moyo said immediate action is needed. “Fixing refrigeration systems, ensuring reliable power supply, and prioritising rural health facilities must be urgent priorities,” he said. The situation in Binga underscores the widening gap between policy commitments at the national level and the realities faced by rural communities, where access to essential services remains inconsistent. As pressure mounts, families in Binga continue to navigate the crisis with limited resources, hoping for swift government action to restore dignity in death and relief in grief. Binga mortuary crisis

HARARE – A government-run primary school in Masvingo District is facing a deepening health and humanitarian crisis, with 136 pupils and four teachers forced to share a single squat toilet amid collapsing infrastructure. At Chikwanda Primary School, learners and staff are reportedly resorting to bush toilets due to inadequate sanitation, raising serious public health concerns. According to the Masvingo Mirror, the situation has been worsened by workers from a nearby brick-moulding company who are also using the same facility. Chikwanda School Development Committee chairperson Samuel Mabwazvike confirmed the crisis. “We have challenges, but the biggest is with toilets. We have one toilet shared by pupils, teachers, and workers from Matuke’s brick moulding company,” he said. The company is allegedly linked to Lovemore Matuke, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State Security. Mabwazvike said that although 10 additional squat holes have been drilled, they are not yet functional. Beyond sanitation, the school’s infrastructure has been described as dangerously dilapidated. Classrooms reportedly converted from an old homestead have cracked walls, collapsing roofs, damaged floors, and broken windows. Teachers dismiss pupils at the first sign of rain for fear of structural collapse. “The classroom block that is collapsing poses a serious risk to our students,” Mabwazvike said. The school is severely understaffed, with just three teachers handling nine classes from ECD B to Grade 7. One teacher reportedly manages ECD A, ECD B, and Grade 1 simultaneously, while another handles both Grade 2 and Grade 3. Teachers also face accommodation challenges. Most commute daily from Masvingo at a cost of around US$8, while one married teacher shares overcrowded housing with workers from the nearby brick company. Parents have expressed alarm over the sharing of toilet facilities between adult male workers and young children. “We are not happy at all with a situation where men are using the same toilets with ECD and Grade 1 girls,” said one parent, speaking anonymously for fear of victimisation. Torerai Moyo, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, acknowledged that the government is aware of infrastructure challenges in some schools and pointed to budget allocations in the 2026 national budget. However, education officials say no meaningful funding has reached schools in recent years beyond salaries. Masvingo North MP Brian Mudhumi has pledged to donate cement for toilet construction, while Matuke reportedly committed to providing bricks. Education unions say more systemic action is needed. Takavafira Zhou of the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe urged authorities to urgently assess and rehabilitate schools with failing infrastructure. Meanwhile, Obert Masaraure argued that the crisis reflects long-standing policy failures. “The infrastructure deficit should have been resolved through mechanisms like the education equalisation fund recommended by the Nziramasanga Commission,” he said. The situation at Chikwanda Primary highlights broader challenges facing Zimbabwe’s rural education system, where inadequate funding, infrastructure decay, and overcrowding continue to compromise learning conditions. Experts warn that without urgent intervention, the health, safety, and educational outcomes of vulnerable learners remain at risk. Masvingo school crisis

HARARE – Three officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were hospitalised after a violent ambush by suspected robbers who attacked them with metal crowbars before stealing a service rifle and patrol vehicle in Mabelreign early Friday morning. The dramatic incident occurred around 12:20 AM on 10 April 2026 along Northolt Road near Divaris Makaharis School, according to an internal police report seen by Southerton Business Times . Inspector Magidi, Constable Nyamushamba, and Constable Chihanga were conducting a stationary patrol when three masked men suddenly emerged from the darkness. “Suddenly, three male adults wearing black balaclavas appeared in front of the car armed with a claw bar and a high-powered torch,” reads part of the internal report. The suspects reportedly advanced rapidly, catching the officers off guard. The situation escalated when Inspector Magidi instructed Constable Chihanga to open fire, but the rifle reportedly jammed. “Constable Chihanga tried to shoot through the open window, and the rifle jammed,” the report states. The malfunction gave the attackers an advantage, allowing them to surround the vehicle and smash the windscreen with crowbars. Constable Nyamushamba attempted to escape through the driver’s door but was struck on the shoulder during the struggle. Inspector Magidi was also injured while attempting to confront the attackers. “He was struck on the forehead with a brick and fell down,” the report says. Constable Chihanga fought back using the butt of the G3 rifle and briefly managed to exit the vehicle, but was overpowered and struck multiple times. “The other criminal hit him with a claw bar on his head twice, and he fell down,” according to the report. The suspects seized the G3 rifle and fled the scene using the police vehicle. Stolen items include: G3 rifle (serial number 5567) with seven rounds White Nissan Tiida (registration ACS 1584) Samsung A15 cellphone Tecno 10 cellphone The injured officers were rushed to Parirenyatwa Hospital, where authorities confirmed they are in stable condition. “The three police officers injured were taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital, and their condition is stable,” the report noted. Multiple police units, including CID Homicide, CID Marlborough, the Police Support Unit (PSTT) , and the Mabelreign canine unit, attended the scene, which showed broken glass and limited lighting. Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects, with priorities including: Arresting the attackers Recovering the stolen vehicle Recovering the G3 rifle Recovering stolen mobile phones Security expert Blessing Muchengeti said the attack highlights growing concerns over organised criminal activity. “Targeting armed police officers and successfully disarming them suggests a high level of coordination and boldness. Recovering the firearm quickly is critical for public safety,” he said. The brazen nature of the attack has raised alarm among residents, particularly given its location in a residential suburb. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to report to the nearest police station. ZRP officers attacked Harare

MUTAWATAWA – Police have arrested two teenagers in connection with a violent robbery at a quarry mine in Svisviro Village, Maramba, in a case that has raised concern over rising rural crime. In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that the suspects, both aged 17, were apprehended on 9 April 2026, the same day the robbery occurred. According to police, the two suspects acted in concert with two accomplices who remain at large. “The suspects… allegedly pounced on the mine and disarmed a security guard who was on duty, taking his shotgun before assaulting and stabbing him on the head with a knife,” the ZRP said. A second worker who responded to assist was also attacked. “They stabbed him once on the head before tying both victims with an electric cable,” the statement added. The gang reportedly made off with a range of valuables, including: Two iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile phones An Apple laptop A jackhammer 10 black fan belts An electric grinder Electrical cables US$290 in cash In addition, the suspects allegedly siphoned approximately 1,095 litres of diesel before fleeing the scene. Police said the group escaped using a Nissan Hard Body pickup truck that had no number plates. Authorities said swift investigations led to the arrest of the two teenagers within hours of the incident. “Police acted swiftly, tracked down and arrested the suspects on the same day,” the ZRP said. Officers also managed to recover a significant portion of the stolen property, including the diesel, electrical equipment, and the getaway vehicle. Police have launched a manhunt for the two remaining suspects believed to have been involved in the robbery. Security analyst Gift Mugabe said the case highlights growing risks faced by remote industrial operations. “Quarry mines and similar sites are often isolated, making them vulnerable to organised attacks. Strengthening security systems in such areas is critical,” he said. The arrest of teenage suspects has also sparked concern about youth involvement in violent crime. Community development expert Rudo Chirenje said targeted interventions are needed. “When young people become involved in serious offences like armed robbery, it points to deeper socio-economic challenges that must be addressed,” she said. Police have urged members of the public with information on the remaining suspects to come forward as investigations continue. Mutawatawa robbery

Bindura Lawyer Elatone Bonongwe HARARE – A High Court has sentenced prominent Bindura lawyer Elatone Bonongwe to an effective 15 years in prison after convicting him of masterminding a violent robbery that left a rural district council engineer seriously injured. Presiding judge Pisirayi Kwenda initially imposed a 20-year sentence on Bonongwe and his co-accused Musa Gandi, Justin Mwale, and Terrence Musingwino before suspending five years on condition of good behaviour. Two other accomplices, Aubrey Chipashu and Agnes Kunaka, were each sentenced to 18 years in prison, with five years suspended. According to The Herald, the court heard that Bonongwe devised the robbery plan in October 2025 and recruited his uncle, Gandi, to assemble a team. The group armed themselves with an AK-47 rifle, a bayonet knife, and iron bars before travelling to Mt Darwin in a Toyota Sienta. Bonongwe allegedly identified the target, Engineer Emson Chitsungo’s residence, before separating from the group prior to the attack. Once at the property, the gang reportedly scaled a precast wall to gain entry and launched a violent assault on Chitsungo. Prosecutors told the court that the victim was struck with iron bars and burned with a hot iron while the attackers demanded cash and valuables. He sustained a fractured forearm and severe swelling in both feet. A neighbour who arrived shortly after the attack described the scene as “horrific.” “He was in pain and could barely move. We immediately called for help,” the neighbour said. The gang fled with clothing, electronic gadgets, and US$1,600 in cash, with the total value of stolen property estimated at over US$30,000. The suspects’ escape was cut short when police intercepted them at a roadblock in Mazowe as they attempted to flee toward Harare. Officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police Support Unit fired warning shots after the group tried to escape, leading to several arrests at the scene. Others were apprehended later. Police recovered some of the stolen goods, along with the weapons used in the robbery, from the vehicle. Investigators presented WhatsApp messages linking Bonongwe directly to the crime, including instructions to assemble the robbery team. Authorities confirmed that property worth approximately US$21,000 was recovered during the investigation. Legal analyst Advocate Tapiwa Zhou said the use of digital evidence was key to securing the conviction. “Electronic communication is increasingly playing a central role in criminal prosecutions, especially in organised crimes where planning is coordinated remotely,” he said. The conviction marks a dramatic fall for Bonongwe, once regarded as a respected legal practitioner in Bindura, now facing a lengthy prison term for orchestrating a violent crime. The case has raised broader concerns about abuse of professional standing and underscores the judiciary’s firm stance against organised violent offences. Elatone Bonongwe robbery case

HARARE – Jacob Mafume has ordered the immediate suspension of construction at Mabelreign Shopping Centre following allegations that a City of Harare councillor authorised the building of tuckshops on a designated parking area. The directive comes after a heated public debate erupted on 9 April 2026, with residents raising concerns over permanent structures being erected on land reserved for parking at the busy suburban centre. Responding on 10 April, Mafume confirmed that all construction would be halted pending a full review by the City of Harare. “All construction there will be halted. The place is for parking, and any construction should be of temporary structures, not brick and mortar. The car park should be restored,” Mafume said. He added that alternative solutions, such as weekend markets similar to those in Avondale or Borrowdale, could be explored to accommodate informal traders without compromising infrastructure. The mayor also addressed criticism over how the project proceeded without his knowledge. “The city is one of the biggest cities in Southern Africa, and unfortunately, my nose is not the biggest in Africa… We rely on various routes to deal with a situation once it is brought up. We need all our noses!” Mafume said. He further clarified that he had not authorised the construction. “No, I did not! We will look into the issue in consultation with the community,” he added. Denford Ngadziore defended the project, saying it followed consultations with residents and the Ward Development Committee aimed at restoring order at Mabelreign shops. “Many illegal traders are operating on shop pavements and in parking spaces,” Ngadziore said. He explained that the construction involves small trading units funded by a private businessperson, with plans to rehabilitate the entire parking area. “This includes installation of boom gates to regulate traffic, as illegal transport operators have invaded the space while some used the parking area as an overnight car park,” he said. Ngadziore added that demand for the spaces is high, with over 200 residents reportedly applying for the trading bays. Despite the explanation, some residents have raised concerns over transparency in the allocation of the new shops. One resident alleged on social media that some units were already occupied despite no public advertising of the spaces. Ngadziore dismissed the claims, stating: “Not true.” Urban planning expert Dr. Tendai Gwarada said the dispute highlights ongoing tensions between informal trading needs and proper land use planning. “Cities must balance economic opportunities with adherence to planning regulations. Converting parking spaces without proper approval undermines urban order,” he said. The City of Harare is now expected to assess the legality of the construction and determine whether the structures will be removed or modified in line with urban planning regulations. The outcome of the review could set a precedent for how similar developments are handled across the capital, where informal trading continues to put pressure on public infrastructure. Mabelreign construction controversy

PRETORIA  — The African Transformation Movement (ATM)  has officially reignited the push to remove President Cyril Ramaphosa from office, formally petitioning the Speaker of the National Assembly on Friday to initiate Section 89 impeachment proceedings. The move follows the bombshell declassification of a 2023 report by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) , which ATM leader Vuyo Zungula claims provides "corroborated proof" of constitutional breaches that Parliament can no longer ignore. In his letter to the Speaker, Zungula highlights a critical piece of evidence, an affidavit from Major-General Wally Rhoode, head of the Presidential Protection Unit. The ATM argues the document suggests Rhoode acted on direct instructions linked to the President to "attend to the matter and report back" following the 2020 theft of R9 million (US$580,000) at the Phala Phala farm. The ATM contends that this instruction triggered a "parallel and unlawful" investigation characterized by: Forced Silence: Allegations of bribery paid to suspects to conceal the burglary. Abuse of State Power: The use of VIP protection resources for a private business matter. Criminal Concealment: The failure to open a formal case docket, effectively hiding the crime from public and parliamentary scrutiny for years. "The political heads that gave an unlawful instruction... must take responsibility, and that person is President Ramaphosa," Zungula stated. The ATM’s request calls for the immediate activation of Rule 129A, which would see the appointment of an independent panel to assess if the President has a case to answer. This is not the first time Ramaphosa has faced such a threat. In December 2022, an independent panel led by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo found prima facie  evidence of misconduct. However, the ANC majority famously "closed ranks," voting 214 to 148 against adopting the report and blocking an impeachment inquiry. The ATM argues that the newly released IPID findings, which detail how Rhoode "name-dropped" the President to bypass security protocols, provide the missing link that was not fully established in 2022. For observers in Harare and across SADC, the Phala Phala saga represents a critical test of South Africa’s institutional independence. The case has already seen the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) decline to prosecute the President, leading to accusations from opposition parties like ActionSA and the EFF of a "systematic whitewash." As the Speaker considers the ATM's letter, the focus remains on whether the Government of National Unity (GNU) will uphold its promises of transparency or if political survival will once again trump constitutional accountability. ATM Ramaphosa impeachment Phala Phala