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By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare State-owned mobile network operator NetOne has dismissed speculation circulating on social media over the absence of its Group Chief Executive Officer, Raphael Mushanawani, confirming that he is on approved annual leave and is expected to resume duty next month. The clarification follows claims on social media alleging that Mushanawani had been placed on forced leave and would not be returning to the company. NetOne dismisses social media claims Speaking in an interview, NetOne Business Strategy Performance Executive John Mayambo described the reports as false and unfounded. "This is just speculation. The CEO is on approved annual leave from July 13 to August 13. He is enjoying his time off, and he will resume duty on August 13. There is nothing forced about this—it's routine annual leave processed through normal channels," Mayambo said. He said the allegations circulating online had no factual basis and risked unfairly damaging the chief executive's professional reputation. The clarification comes amid growing speculation on social media regarding possible leadership changes at the state-owned telecommunications company. CTO appointed acting CEO Mayambo confirmed that NetOne's Chief Technology Officer, Christopher Muchechemere, has been appointed Acting Group Chief Executive Officer during Mushanawani's absence. He said the appointment is a routine corporate governance measure designed to ensure operational continuity whenever the substantive chief executive is away on official leave. According to Mayambo, Muchechemere will continue serving in the acting capacity until Mushanawani resumes duty on 13 August 2026. Company emphasises continuity Although NetOne had not issued a formal statement through its official communication platforms at the time of publication, senior management maintains that the leave was approved through the company's normal internal processes. Corporate governance experts note that appointing an acting chief executive during the temporary absence of a substantive CEO is standard practice in both public and private sector organisations, ensuring uninterrupted decision-making and business operations. As one of Zimbabwe's largest telecommunications providers, NetOne plays a critical role in mobile voice, data and digital financial services, making leadership continuity an important aspect of its day-to-day operations. The company has urged stakeholders to rely on verified information from official sources rather than unsubstantiated social media reports. There has been no indication from NetOne that any permanent leadership changes are under consideration. NetOne CEO annual leave

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Kuala Lumpur Zimbabwe and Malaysia are in the final stages of negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on media cooperation, a development expected to strengthen collaboration in broadcasting, digital transformation, journalism and professional skills development between the two countries. Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana said negotiations on the proposed agreement were at an advanced stage, with most of the provisions already agreed upon. Mangwana made the remarks during an official visit to the News and Current Affairs Division of Media Prima Berhad, one of Malaysia's largest integrated media organisations. MoU to strengthen media collaboration Speaking after a dialogue session with Media Prima executives, Mangwana said the agreement would provide a framework for long-term cooperation between Zimbabwe and Malaysia's media sectors. "Part of this journey is to build a collaborative relationship in the media sector between Malaysia and Zimbabwe and we are working on an MoU," Mangwana said. "Most of the clauses have already been agreed on how we can cooperate in the media space." The proposed agreement is expected to cover cooperation in digital transformation, broadcasting, news production, professional exchanges, institutional development and skills transfer. Focus on digital transformation Mangwana was accompanied by officials from Zimbabwe's Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services during the visit, which forms part of an official programme aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in media and communications. The Zimbabwean delegation met Media Prima executives to exchange experiences on newsroom operations, public broadcasting, digital innovation and emerging media technologies. Officials said the proposed partnership would create opportunities for media professionals from both countries to participate in exchange programmes, specialised training and knowledge-sharing initiatives. The collaboration is also expected to support Zimbabwe's ongoing efforts to modernise its broadcasting and communications sector through the adoption of new technologies and international best practices. Expanding international partnerships Zimbabwe has increasingly sought strategic partnerships with international media organisations to accelerate digital transformation, improve newsroom capacity and strengthen institutional development. Media analysts say international cooperation agreements can help broadcasters and news organisations adapt to changing audience behaviour, artificial intelligence, digital platforms and evolving content distribution models. If concluded, the MoU will establish a formal framework for collaboration in broadcasting, journalism, digital media, technology transfer and professional capacity building between Zimbabwe and Malaysia. The agreement is expected to further deepen bilateral relations while supporting Zimbabwe's broader vision of building a modern, digitally driven and globally competitive media industry. Zimbabwe Malaysia media cooperation

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Mvurwi A 37-year-old man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after being convicted of vandalising irrigation infrastructure at a farm in Mvurwi, in a case that underscores Zimbabwe's efforts to protect agricultural assets from theft and sabotage. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that Ajida Twala, also known as "Magirazi", was convicted of contravening Section 111B(b) of the Water Act [Chapter 20:24] following the theft and vandalism of irrigation equipment at Vhukwe Farm. According to police, the offence occurred between 2 and 3 June 2026, when Twala allegedly vandalised four aluminium irrigation pipes connected to the farm's irrigation scheme. Investigators say the accused removed the pipes and concealed them in nearby bushland in an apparent attempt to collect them later. The alleged theft was foiled after an alert farm employee noticed Twala behaving suspiciously and immediately informed security personnel. Security guards tracked his movements and discovered the hidden irrigation pipes before Twala allegedly fled the scene after realising he was being followed. The matter was reported to detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Mashonaland Central, who launched investigations leading to Twala's arrest. He subsequently appeared before the Guruve Magistrates' Court on 20 July 2026, where Regional Magistrate Timeone Makunde convicted him. The State was represented by prosecutor Rutendo Ndibwe. Following conviction, the court sentenced Twala to 10 years' imprisonment. In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police praised the vigilance of the farm employee and security personnel whose actions led to the recovery of the stolen property and the arrest of the suspect. "The Zimbabwe Republic Police would like to commend the vigilance shown by members of the public in taking action against vandalism of agricultural assets. Police will continue to work with communities to protect agricultural assets," the statement said. The conviction comes as authorities intensify efforts to curb the theft and vandalism of irrigation equipment, electricity infrastructure and farming machinery, offences that have become a growing concern in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. Agricultural experts have warned that vandalism of irrigation systems disrupts food production, increases operational costs for farmers and undermines investments aimed at improving agricultural productivity. Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around farms, irrigation schemes and other critical infrastructure to help prevent similar offences. Mvurwi irrigation vandalism

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a 33-year-old Epworth man in connection with a series of housebreaking and theft cases that allegedly terrorised residents of Avonlea suburb in Harare over the past three months. Police identified the suspect as Moses Damalekani (33) of Muguta Extension, Epworth, who is facing 10 counts of unlawful entry into premises in aggravating circumstances, as defined under Section 131 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23]. Avonlea residents plagued by burglary spree According to the ZRP, the alleged offences occurred between May and July 2026, during which residents of Avonlea experienced a surge in housebreaking incidents that left many fearing for the security of their homes. The increase in reported burglaries prompted detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to launch an intensive investigation aimed at identifying those responsible. Police said a breakthrough came on 27 July 2026, when detectives received credible information linking Damalekani to the alleged offences. A manhunt was subsequently launched, leading to his arrest. Stolen property recovered Investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly gained entry into houses by breaking windows with unidentified objects before stealing valuables, including mobile phones and laptop computers. Following his arrest, Damalekani allegedly led detectives to the recovery of several stolen cellphones and laptops. Police said the recovered property was positively identified by its rightful owners. Investigators are continuing efforts to recover additional stolen items believed to be linked to the alleged offences. The suspect is expected to appear in court to answer the charges. In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police thanked members of the public for providing information that led to the arrest. "The Zimbabwe Republic Police extends its profound gratitude to members of the public for supplying vital information, which led to the arrest of the accused and the subsequent recovery of stolen property," the police said. The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station as part of efforts to combat property-related crime. Community policing experts say cooperation between residents and law enforcement agencies remains one of the most effective tools in preventing and solving burglary cases, particularly in high-density urban areas where neighbourhood watch initiatives have contributed to improved public safety. The ZRP has in recent months intensified operations targeting housebreaking syndicates across Harare as part of broader efforts to curb property crimes. Under Zimbabwean law, every accused person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Avonlea housebreaking suspect arrested

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare Residents of Chitungwiza have taken the Chitungwiza Municipality to the High Court, seeking an order compelling the local authority to end decades of raw sewage pollution that they say has endangered public health, contaminated water sources and violated their constitutional rights. The application was filed at the High Court of Zimbabwe on 23 July 2026 by the Chitungwiza Residents Trust (CHITREST) together with eight residents: Langton Nyakudya, Michael Kuvheya, Fred Farai Nyakudanga, Innocent Gondora, Phillipa Kawamba, Muchaneta Chimuka, Angela Chefu and Ruramai Chipengo. The applicants are represented by lawyers Kelvin Kabaya and Tinashe Chinopfukutwa of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR). According to the court application, residents say untreated sewage has continued to overflow into residential areas, exposing families to serious health hazards. They allege that raw sewage is flowing directly into homes, while persistent foul odours have made living conditions unbearable. The applicants further argue that domestic boreholes have been contaminated, increasing the risk of water-borne diseases, while sewage spillages have affected access to some schools after entrance and exit points became flooded with effluent. According to ZLHR, the residents contend that Chitungwiza's sewer infrastructure has failed to keep pace with rapid population growth and commercial development. They argue that the sewer network was never adequately upgraded to accommodate the municipality's expanding population, resulting in frequent pipe bursts, overflowing manholes and untreated sewage discharge. The applicants argue that the municipality's continued failure to repair and maintain the sewerage system violates several constitutional rights, including the right to life (Section 48), the right to human dignity (Section 51) and the right to an environment that is not harmful to health or well-being (Section 73). They also contend that the local authority has breached its statutory obligations under the Urban Councils Act, the Environmental Management Act and the Public Health Act. Under Section 168 of the Urban Councils Act, municipalities are required to ensure the proper collection, conveyance, treatment and disposal of sewage. The residents argue that Chitungwiza Municipality has failed to fulfil those obligations despite the crisis persisting for decades. The applicants are asking the High Court to compel the municipality to upgrade and repair its sewer infrastructure within three months of the court granting the order. They also want the court to direct the local authority to prepare and publish an emergency action plan within one month, detailing short-, medium- and long-term measures to repair, maintain and modernise the sewer network. In addition, they seek a declaratory order confirming that the municipality's failure to adequately manage sewage is unconstitutional and unlawful. The residents further want the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to monitor the municipality's compliance with any court-ordered emergency plan. Chitungwiza has for years experienced recurring sewage overflows, with residents and public health experts warning that ageing infrastructure, population growth and inadequate investment have increased the risk of disease outbreaks and environmental pollution. The High Court has not yet set a date for hearing the application. Chitungwiza sewage crisis

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) revenue officer and two clearing agents over the alleged smuggling of 140 bales of clothing weighing 30 tonnes from Tanzania into Zimbabwe through the Chirundu One Stop Border Post. The three suspects appeared before the Kariba Magistrates' Court after being arrested on 27 July 2026 and were each granted US$200 bail pending further investigations. ZACC identified the ZIMRA official as Emmanuel Munyaradzi Charimari, a Revenue Officer stationed at the Chirundu One Stop Border Post, who is facing a charge of criminal abuse of duty as a public officer. According to the anti-graft body, Charimari was on duty at the southbound gate on 14 July 2026 when he allegedly facilitated the unlawful entry of a truck carrying undeclared goods into Zimbabwe without following mandatory customs clearance procedures. The truck was intercepted by ZACC investigators in Chitungwiza the following day, leading to investigations into the alleged smuggling operation. ZACC alleges that Charimari, who was responsible for granting final clearance, deliberately ignored established customs procedures, allowing the consignment to enter the country without payment of duty. Investigators allege he failed to receive and verify clearance documentation, neglected to check the consignment through the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) and did not record the vehicle's details in the required border registers. The Commission also arrested two clearing agents, Basil Tawanda Gayihayi and Takudzwa Hamilton Nyikadzino, who are facing fraud charges. According to ZACC, the pair allegedly worked with another suspect, Ishmael Gezani, who remains at large. Investigators allege that after the truck had been lawfully cleared on the Zambian side of the border, Gayihayi created a fraudulent set of customs documents that falsely described the cargo as 50 drums of honey weighing 22,000 kilogrammes destined for South Africa. ZACC alleges that Gayihayi then instructed Nyikadzino to submit the forged documents to ZIMRA officials at Chirundu, enabling the truck carrying 30 tonnes of clothing to enter Zimbabwe without paying the required customs duty. Authorities believe the alleged misrepresentation of the cargo enabled the goods to bypass normal import procedures. All three accused appeared before the Kariba Magistrates' Court and were remanded out of custody on US$200 bail each. ZACC said investigations are continuing, with efforts underway to locate and arrest the outstanding suspect. The Commission has intensified investigations into corruption and smuggling at Zimbabwe's border posts as part of broader efforts to curb revenue leakages, strengthen customs compliance and combat organised economic crime. Under Zimbabwean law, all accused persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of law. ZACC ZIMRA smuggling case

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Rusape Police have launched a murder investigation following the brutal killing of a teacher from Mavhudzi High School, whose body was discovered with severe head injuries in Magamba suburb, Rusape, on Saturday morning. The victim, identified as Norman Guri, was found lying in a pool of blood a few metres from his home, with his head severely crushed. Several large stones believed to have been used in the attack were found at the scene. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing are continuing. The murder has sent shockwaves through Magamba suburb, with residents expressing fear over what they describe as a disturbing act of violence. Rusape Town Council Ward 4 Councillor Lovemore Chifomboti, who said he was among the first people to arrive at the scene, described the attack as horrific. "His head was crushed by large rocks. Blood was splashed all over. He died a few metres from his house," Chifomboti said. "It was a sad and disturbing scene because Mr Guri was a good person. He was a teacher who had a thriving horticulture project at his house. Following his brutal murder, residents of Magamba are now living in fear." Residents told local leaders that the incident has heightened concerns about security, with many now reluctant to walk at night. Guri's sister, Annah Guri, said the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss. "We are failing to come to terms with our brother's death. How can they do such a thing to him? They should just have robbed him and spared his life," she said. "I have never seen a person dying in such gruesome circumstances. We hope the police will bring the culprits to book and bring closure to this case." The deceased's body was expected to be transported to Harare for a post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death. Police are appealing for information that may assist in identifying those responsible for the killing. While investigators have not disclosed a possible motive, detectives are expected to examine all available evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has previously urged members of the public to report suspicious activities and provide information that could assist in solving serious crimes. Anyone with information relating to the incident is encouraged to report it to the nearest police station. Mavhudzi High School teacher murdered

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare Award-winning businesswoman Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, the founder and chief executive of Hazel Motors Logistics, trading as Hezy Motors Logistics, is at the centre of a high-profile fraud case after prosecutors alleged she spent five months evading police while investigations into an alleged vehicle import scam intensified. Mafu, who turns 36 on Saturday, appeared before Jesse Kufa on Tuesday for a bail hearing, where the State opposed her release, arguing she is a flight risk, could interfere with witnesses and may obstruct ongoing investigations. She has not yet been asked to plead to the charges. According to the prosecution, Mafu left Zimbabwe through Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on 19 March 2026, shortly after four employees from Hezy Motors Logistics were arrested on fraud charges linked to the same investigation. Lead investigating officer Detective Sergeant Richard Maravanyika told the court that police had already begun searching for Mafu when she departed the country. The State further alleged there is no official immigration record showing how or when she returned to Zimbabwe before surrendering to police last Friday in the company of her lawyer. Prosecutors also told the court that two warrants of arrest were issued against Mafu on 14 May and 14 July 2026 after she allegedly failed to appear before the court. During the bail proceedings, Detective Sergeant Maravanyika said investigators had obtained a search-and-seizure warrant to recover electronic evidence from the company's offices in Milton Park, Harare. However, when detectives arrived, they allegedly intercepted a vehicle carrying electronic equipment they intended to seize. The investigating officer told the court that police believe Mafu instructed staff to remove the devices before officers executed the search warrant. "This demonstrates her propensity to interfere with investigations and conceal evidence," Detective Sergeant Maravanyika submitted. The State also revealed that police are investigating a separate matter involving allegations of obstructing the course of justice. Prosecutors allege that Mafu operated an elaborate fraud scheme from the company's Milton Park offices, allegedly prejudicing numerous clients of US$624,958.96 and ZiG1,275,878.35 through vehicle import transactions. According to the State, several complainants reported being told they would not receive their vehicles while the matter remained under police investigation. The court also heard that some clients were allegedly offered refunds as negotiations continued. Among the documents produced was a refund settlement proposal dated 20 April 2026 between complainant Charles Tatenda Mademutsa and Hezy Motors Logistics' finance department, proposing a refund of US$4,000. The State argued that releasing Mafu on bail would undermine public confidence in the justice system because of the seriousness of the allegations, the number of complainants and the risk that she could abscond. The bail application was adjourned to Wednesday, when defence lawyer Editor Mavuto is expected to cross-examine the investigating officer. Mafu remains in custody pending the court's determination of her bail application. Under Zimbabwean law, every accused person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of law. Hazel Mafu fraud case

The Government has declared an end to what it describes as lawlessness in Zimbabwe's land administration system, warning that land barons, traditional leaders and anyone involved in illegal land sales will be arrested and prosecuted as part of a nationwide enforcement campaign. In a statement issued on 28 July 2026, Daniel Garwe said the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works was intensifying efforts to dismantle criminal networks responsible for the unlawful occupation, subdivision and sale of State, local authority and communal land. The Minister said the Ministry "condemns in the strongest possible terms" the continued activities of land barons, headmen, village heads and other individuals accused of undermining Government authority and the rule of law for personal gain. Garwe said illegal land transactions have contributed to the rapid growth of unplanned settlements, environmental degradation, land disputes and the destruction of public infrastructure across Zimbabwe. He added that fraudulent land sales have also left many home seekers financially prejudiced after purchasing residential stands from individuals without legal authority. "The era of lawlessness is over. The abuse of public land, fraudulent land sales and illegal settlements will no longer be tolerated," Garwe said. "The Ministry will not condone the abuse of public office or the exploitation of citizens by criminal syndicates operating under the guise of land development." Zimbabwe has experienced persistent challenges with illegal land allocations, particularly on the outskirts of major cities such as Harare, Chitungwiza and Bulawayo, where thousands of prospective homeowners have unknowingly purchased land later deemed illegal by local authorities. Garwe said Emmerson Mnangagwa had directed that corruption, abuse of office and criminality in land administration be eliminated. To implement that directive, Government has introduced three immediate measures. First, all identified land barons will be arrested, prosecuted and subjected to the full penalties provided for under Zimbabwean law. Second, any headman or village head found facilitating, participating in or benefiting from illegal land sales will face criminal prosecution and, upon conviction, removal from office in accordance with the Constitution and the Traditional Leaders Act. Third, Government will deploy multi-agency enforcement teams comprising law enforcement agencies, local authorities and the Chiefs Council of Zimbabwe to investigate and dismantle organised criminal networks involved in illegal land allocations and settlements. Garwe emphasised that no individual would be exempt from prosecution regardless of political affiliation, social standing or influence. The Ministry also warned individuals and organisations masquerading as legitimate land developers, housing cooperatives and estate agents without legal authority that investigations had been intensified and illegal operations would be shut down. Garwe urged members of the public to verify land ownership, subdivision approvals and development permits with the relevant local authority and Government departments before making any payments. "Land purchased through illegal channels offers no legal protection, exposes buyers to financial loss and promotes unplanned settlements," he warned. Urban planning experts have consistently argued that illegal land settlements place enormous pressure on local authorities by creating neighbourhoods without roads, sewer systems, water infrastructure, schools and health facilities. They say proper land administration is critical for sustainable urban development and orderly service delivery. Concluding the statement, Garwe described the announcement as a final warning to land barons and all those facilitating unlawful land transactions. He said nationwide enforcement operations had already been intensified and that Government remained committed to restoring order, protecting public land and upholding the rule of law. Zimbabwe land barons crackdown

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Bulawayo A 43-year-old church elder from Bulawayo's Nkulumane 5 suburb has been remanded in custody after appearing in court on allegations that he murdered his wife with an axe before assaulting their children during a violent domestic incident. Ackim Bongani Dube appeared before Western Commonage Magistrate Sikhethile Moyo on Saturday facing a charge of murder in connection with the death of his wife, Memory Makathini. Dube was not asked to plead, as murder cases are initially heard in the magistrates' court before being referred to the High Court. He was remanded in custody until 7 August 2026 and advised to apply for bail at the High Court. Prosecutor Tafara Dzimbanhete told the court that the alleged incident occurred at about 1 am on 24 July 2026 at the family's home in Nkulumane 5 following a domestic dispute between Dube and his wife over an undisclosed matter. According to the State, the argument escalated violently, with Dube allegedly striking Makathini twice on the head with an axe. The prosecution alleges that she sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. Following the alleged killing, Dube is accused of turning on the couple's children, assaulting them with a metal rod. The court further heard that he allegedly forced his 15-year-old son to smash windows and doors inside the family home before the children managed to flee. According to court proceedings, the children escaped to a neighbouring house, where they sought assistance. Police were subsequently alerted and responded to the scene, leading to Dube's arrest. The injured children were taken to Mpilo Central Hospital for medical treatment, where they remained admitted at the time the matter was heard. Investigations into the incident are continuing. The alleged murder comes amid continued concern over gender-based violence and domestic abuse in Zimbabwe. According to the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, domestic violence remains one of the country's most prevalent human rights challenges, with women and children disproportionately affected. The Commission has repeatedly called for stronger prevention measures, early intervention and greater community awareness to address violence within families. Legal experts also note that Zimbabwe's Domestic Violence Act [Chapter 5:16] provides legal protection for victims of physical, emotional, psychological and economic abuse, while serious offences such as murder are prosecuted under the country's criminal laws. Authorities continue to encourage victims, relatives and neighbours to report domestic violence promptly to police or social welfare authorities before disputes escalate into fatal violence. The matter was postponed to 7 August 2026 for routine remand proceedings while police complete their investigations. Under Zimbabwean law, every accused person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Bulawayo church elder murder case

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 HARARE — Self-styled faith healer Madzibaba Gathry Chirodzero and his wife, Diana Chauke, on Monday took the witness stand to deny harrowing allegations of rape and accomplice involvement in a high-profile trial that has exposed the dark underbelly of spiritual exploitation disguised as traditional healing. Chirodzero is facing formal charges of raping a minor, while Chauke (37) and the complainant’s 45-year-old biological mother stand co-accused as accomplices in enabling the alleged assault. Manipulative Rituals and Alleged Threats Testifying in his defense, Chirodzero told the court that he originally met the complainant's family through a neighbor who sought spiritual assistance for the victim's sister. He maintained that he merely performed healing rituals using a water plant locally known as garadziva, instructing the family members to bathe with it at his residence on several occasions. However, State Prosecutor Ms. Tracy Mundanga fiercely challenged his testimony, alleging that Chirodzero intentionally orchestrated a psychological campaign to isolate and disarm the victim's family. "You had a motive to make the brother insane because when he set foot at your house he was okay, and you made him mad," Prosecutor Mundanga put to Chirodzero. "You made him mad in order to disarm the mother and her children so that you could rape the complainant." Mundanga dismissed Chirodzero’s claims that the family fabricated the rape accusations over an unpaid spiritual bill, accusing him of inventing a cover story to evade justice. In a dramatic courtroom exchange, the complainant's mother, who remains on trial alongside the couple, interrogated Chirodzero directly. She alleged that after subjecting her daughter to violent spiritual rituals, Chirodzero insisted that sexual intercourse with the child was spiritually mandatory to heal her siblings. The mother further claimed that Chirodzero threatened to shoot her with a firearm when she initially resisted, forcing her to yield out of fear for her life. Chirodzero denied owning a firearm or issuing death threats. Wife Claims Religious 'Uncleanliness' Defense Taking the stand in her own defense, Diana Chauke denied complicity, explaining that she slept in a separate room on the night of the incident because she was menstruating a state considered "unclean" under their apostolic doctrine, which barred her from sharing the matrimonial bed. Chauke testified that her young son alerted her after seeing his father and the complainant together in the main bedroom. "When my son came to tell me, I went to the bedroom and found the complainant sleeping on her own," Chauke testified, adding that she subsequently gave the victim fresh underwear. Prosecutor Mundanga countered that handing over clean underwear was a deliberate attempt to destroy forensic evidence, accusing Chauke of acting as an active accomplice throughout the ordeal. "You took the complainant to your lap, and you told her that she was now your husband's wife," Mundanga argued. "The following morning... when she refused, you were called in to make it happen... and she was raped for the second time." Chauke rejected all prosecution assertions. Regional Magistrate proceedings for the trial are set to resume on July 30, 2026. Madzibaba Gathry Chirodzero rape trial in Harare

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare Cabinet has approved the Municipal Police and Courts Bill, paving the way for legislation that will significantly expand the powers of municipal police officers and establish dedicated municipal courts to enforce local by-laws and deal with minor offences. The proposed law, announced following the latest Cabinet meeting, forms part of the Government's efforts to strengthen local governance, improve service delivery and enhance public safety through more effective enforcement of municipal regulations. If enacted by Parliament, the Bill will grant municipal police officers the authority to arrest individuals suspected of violating municipal by-laws, marking a significant shift from the current framework, where municipal officers primarily issue tickets or refer cases to the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Expanded powers for municipal police According to the Government, the Bill is designed to improve compliance with local authority by-laws while supporting crime prevention and public order within municipalities. The proposed legislation will empower municipal police to take more direct enforcement action against offences such as illegal vending, unlawful dumping, by-law infringements, traffic violations and other municipal offences. Authorities say stronger enforcement mechanisms are expected to improve accountability among residents and businesses while enabling local authorities to respond more efficiently to urban management challenges. The proposal comes as many local authorities continue to grapple with rapid urbanisation, informal trading, traffic congestion and illegal developments, placing increasing pressure on municipal enforcement systems. Dedicated municipal courts proposed A key feature of the Bill is the establishment of municipal courts, which would hear cases involving breaches of municipal by-laws, traffic-related offences and other minor criminal matters. Government says the specialised courts are intended to provide quicker resolution of municipal cases while easing the workload currently carried by Zimbabwe's mainstream courts. Legal experts have long argued that specialised courts can improve efficiency by allowing judicial officers to focus on specific categories of cases, reducing delays and improving enforcement of local regulations. The proposed municipal courts would operate within the broader judicial system and are expected to deal primarily with matters arising from local authority legislation. Legislative process begins Following Cabinet approval, the Municipal Police and Courts Bill will now be gazetted and introduced in Parliament, where it will undergo debate, public consultation and committee scrutiny before it can be passed into law. As with all Bills, Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to propose amendments during the legislative process before the legislation is presented for presidential assent. Government says the reforms are aimed at creating safer, cleaner and better-managed urban areas by equipping municipalities with stronger legal tools to enforce local laws and improve public service delivery. The proposed legislation is expected to attract significant public interest, particularly from local authorities, residents' associations, civil society organisations and legal practitioners, given its potential impact on policing, municipal governance and citizens' rights. Municipal Police and Courts Bill Zimbabwe