HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the arrest of two directors of Teku Teku Company for allegedly manufacturing illicit alcohol under unhygienic conditions and in violation of public health regulations. In a statement, police said officers in Mutare conducted an operation that led to the arrest of the company directors and the seizure of equipment allegedly used in the illegal production process. “Police in Mutare arrested two directors of Teku Teku Company for manufacturing illicit brew under unhygienic conditions and in violation of health regulations,” the police said. “Equipment used in the illegal operation was recovered. The ZRP urges companies to comply with all legal and health requirements and warns that decisive action will be taken without fear or favour against individuals and companies engaged in peddling dangerous drugs or involved in the manufacturing of illicit substances.” The arrests come as police intensify nationwide operations targeting illegal drugs, unregistered medicines, and illicit alcohol production. In a separate case, police arrested 64-year-old truck driver Thapson Ndou on allegations of smuggling nearly two tonnes of dagga valued at approximately US$210,800 through the Beitbridge Border Post. Authorities said the dagga was discovered during an operation at the border crossing. Police have since impounded the haulage truck, registration number AGK 0535, believed to have been used in the smuggling operation. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify and apprehend other suspects who may have been involved in the alleged trafficking network. Meanwhile, police in Beatrice arrested Clayton Chapwanya, 36, on Thursday for unlawful possession of unregistered medicines. According to investigators, officers recovered 250 bottles of BronCleer cough syrup shortly after the suspect allegedly received the consignment at the Beatrice truck stop. BronCleer, a cough syrup containing codeine, has become one of the most commonly abused substances in Zimbabwe and has frequently featured in police anti-drug operations across the country. Law enforcement authorities say the latest arrests demonstrate their commitment to tackling the growing problem of drug and substance abuse, which has increasingly become a national concern affecting communities, particularly young people. Police have warned individuals and businesses involved in the manufacture, distribution, or sale of illicit substances that they face arrest and prosecution as authorities continue to intensify enforcement operations nationwide. Teku Teku directors arrested

JOHANNESBURG – Major South African business organisations have warned the government that growing public frustration over illegal immigration risks fuelling further xenophobic violence and damaging the country’s economic interests. In a joint statement issued on Friday, Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) and Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) called on authorities to restore order, strengthen border management, and address legitimate public concerns through lawful and effective policy interventions. The warning comes amid weeks of anti-immigration protests and reported violence targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and Mpumalanga. “At a time of heightened economic pressures, unemployment, high crime levels and social challenges, it is understandable that citizens seek solutions to legitimate concerns regarding economic inclusion, service delivery, border management and the rule of law,” the organisations said. However, BUSA and BLSA stressed that public frustrations should not be allowed to descend into violence or vigilantism. The organisations argued that while concerns about undocumented migration require urgent attention, they must be addressed through constitutional processes and sound governance rather than attacks on foreign nationals. The issue has increasingly attracted international attention, with both Nigeria and Ghana reportedly calling for the matter to be discussed at the upcoming African Union coordination summit. Ghana has also reportedly repatriated nearly 300 of its citizens from South Africa amid fears of escalating xenophobic violence. Business leaders warned that attacks on foreign nationals ultimately harm South Africa’s economy and regional standing. “South Africa benefits enormously from legal investments as well as genuine entrepreneurship, skills and talents from other African countries,” the organisations said. “Consequently, when individuals target foreign nationals, they directly harm South Africa’s economic interests.” According to BLSA and BUSA, hostility towards migrants threatens regional trade, disrupts business operations, and places cross-border investment at risk. They noted that South African companies operate extensively throughout the African continent and depend on stable diplomatic and economic relations with neighbouring countries. The warning comes as anti-immigration groups continue to increase pressure on the government. One such organisation, March and March, has called for a nationwide shutdown on 30 June, demanding stronger action against undocumented migrants. Supporters of the planned action argue that illegal immigration places pressure on public services, employment opportunities, and law enforcement resources. Critics, however, warn that inflammatory rhetoric risks fuelling xenophobia and undermining social cohesion in one of Africa’s largest economies. The debate over immigration has become increasingly prominent in South African politics as the country grapples with high unemployment, economic stagnation, and public concerns over crime and service delivery. With tensions continuing to rise, business leaders are urging the government to balance effective immigration enforcement with the protection of human rights, social stability, and regional economic cooperation. South Africa immigration tensions

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has arrested eight suspects and recovered significant quantities of dagga and unregistered medicines during a series of operations targeting drug trafficking and substance abuse in Harare. In a statement issued on 4 June, police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said law enforcement authorities have intensified intelligence-led operations across the country as part of ongoing efforts to combat drug and substance abuse. The operation began on 26 May in Dzivarasekwa Extension, where officers arrested 29-year-old Sekai Katsande. Police allegedly recovered several sachets of dagga concealed in a black bag hidden inside a wardrobe at her residence. Investigators later moved to Crowborough North, where Amos Makwezwa (39), Lloyd Savanhu (39) and Bannah Dandara (29) were arrested on allegations of unlawful possession of dagga. Officers reportedly recovered loose dagga and prepared rolls during the operation. In a separate incident on 27 May, police acted on information received and arrested Tinashe Chitsva (30) at Tanaka Shopping Centre in Glen View. Authorities allege that Chitsva was selling dagga from a stationary Toyota Hiace vehicle. The operation resulted in the seizure of 61 sachets of dagga, a 20-litre bucket containing dagga, 26 bottles of Broncleer cough syrup, 129 bottles of Astra Pain Syrup, and 129 bottles of Benylin syrup. Further arrests were made on 29 May at Overspill Shopping Centre in Epworth, where Anusa Jack (39), Tatenda Makuyana (38), and Munashe Sekeramai (24) were taken into custody. Police recovered quantities of dagga, 73 prepared dagga rolls, and several bottles of Broncleer, Novalyn, and Benylin cough syrups during the raid. Authorities have expressed concern over the growing abuse of prescription and over-the-counter cough syrups, particularly products containing codeine, which are increasingly being misused alongside illicit substances. Nyathi said the campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse remains a key priority for the police. “The police will continue conducting intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks and bringing offenders to justice,” he said. The arrests come as authorities continue nationwide efforts to curb the distribution and abuse of illicit drugs, particularly among young people, amid rising concern over the social and health impacts of substance abuse in communities across Zimbabwe. Harare drug raids

BULAWAYO – A stray cat brought proceedings to an unexpected standstill at the Bulawayo High Court this week after wandering into a murder trial and refusing to leave, forcing court officials to abandon the courtroom and relocate the hearing. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the unusual incident occurred on June 3 during a special sitting of the High Court convened to hear the murder trial of 19-year-old Bright Tshuma of Nkulumane. What began as an ordinary court session quickly turned into an extraordinary spectacle when a brown stray cat entered the courtroom and disrupted proceedings. In a statement recounting the incident, the NPA said the animal slowly walked into the courtroom before unleashing what it described as a "mournful, ear-piercing wail." The persistent crying reportedly interrupted proceedings and drew the attention of everyone inside the courtroom. Concerned by the disruption, the presiding judge ordered a brief adjournment and instructed police officers to remove the animal from the courtroom. However, what followed proved more difficult than expected. According to the NPA, a team consisting of four police officers, four prison officers, and a court caretaker launched an operation to remove the feline intruder. The effort quickly descended into what prosecutors described as a "comical scene." As curious members of the public gathered at the courtroom entrance to watch the drama unfold, the cat allegedly became startled and bolted from behind the dock. Witnesses watched as the animal sprinted across the courtroom before taking refuge near the judge's table. The cat then reportedly found its way beneath the judge's bench, where it refused to budge despite repeated attempts to remove it. "The cat was successful in its hostile takeover of the courtroom," the NPA said humorously. Officials reported that the animal reacted aggressively whenever attempts were made to force it from its new hiding place. After several unsuccessful attempts to evict the determined feline, court officials ultimately abandoned the courtroom and transferred proceedings to another venue within the court complex. The trial then resumed without further interruption. While the cat's unexpected appearance provided a moment of levity in an otherwise serious criminal matter, the case itself involved grave allegations. Following the completion of the trial, Tshuma was convicted of murder. The court heard that he fatally stabbed the deceased using what was described in court records as a "Colombia CCCP AK47 knife." After considering the evidence presented during the trial, the court found him guilty and sentenced him to 20 years' imprisonment. Although Zimbabwean courts have occasionally witnessed unusual incidents, legal observers said it is rare for an animal to effectively halt High Court proceedings and force the relocation of a murder trial. The incident has since attracted widespread attention on social media, with many Zimbabweans amused by the image of multiple security officers being outmanoeuvred by a single stray cat. For one brief moment, the feline succeeded in becoming the most talked-about figure in a Bulawayo courtroom before disappearing from the spotlight as quickly as it arrived. Bulawayo High Court cat

HARARE – The Zimbabwean Parliament has adjourned its sitting until Tuesday, setting the stage for what could be a decisive week in the debate over the contentious Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. Lawmakers will not sit on Monday and are expected to reconvene on Tuesday to continue deliberations on the proposed constitutional changes, which have dominated proceedings in the National Assembly and sparked intense political debate across the country. The Bill proposes significant amendments to Zimbabwe’s Constitution and has emerged as one of the most closely watched legislative matters currently before Parliament. Debate on the proposed law has so far revealed a notable trend within the House. No lawmakers from the ruling ZANU PF have publicly opposed the Bill during parliamentary discussions, while some legislators from opposition benches have reportedly voiced support for the proposed amendments. Parliamentary sources indicate that momentum is building towards a vote, with speculation growing that lawmakers could be asked to decide on the Bill as early as Thursday or Friday, depending on the pace of debate when Parliament resumes. The proposed constitutional changes have generated significant public interest and scrutiny, with supporters arguing that the amendments are necessary for governance reforms, while critics have raised concerns about their potential implications for Zimbabwe’s constitutional framework and democratic processes. Although the ruling party commands a substantial majority in the National Assembly, attention is increasingly shifting to the Senate, where reports suggest there are concerns within ZANU-PF about securing a smooth passage of the legislation. Sources familiar with parliamentary proceedings say efforts are continuing behind the scenes as the Bill advances through the legislative process. With debate set to resume next week, Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 is expected to remain the dominant issue on Parliament’s agenda, with lawmakers facing growing pressure from both supporters and opponents of the proposed reforms. The coming days are likely to prove critical in determining the future of one of the most consequential constitutional proposals to come before Parliament in recent years. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3

A Zimbabwean man claims he was lured abroad with promises of employment before being allegedly forced into a drug trafficking operation that left him stranded and effectively captive in the Middle East. According to reports, Benito Chimbaru's ordeal began after he was introduced to a woman identified only as Memory by a former schoolmate, Kundai. The pair allegedly presented him with what appeared to be a legitimate job opportunity in Ethiopia. Believing he was travelling for employment, Chimbaru reportedly left Zimbabwe in March, travelling by bus to South Africa before boarding a flight to Ethiopia. The airline tickets were allegedly arranged and paid for by Kundai. Upon arrival in Ethiopia, Chimbaru said he was met by a Nigerian national who transported him to a hotel. It was there, he claims, that the promised employment opportunity took a disturbing turn. According to Chimbaru's account, he was allegedly compelled to swallow seven sachets containing unknown substances. He later came to believe that the packages contained illegal drugs. Afterwards, he was reportedly flown to Oman, where he allegedly excreted the sachets before being handed over to another individual linked to the operation. Chimbaru alleges that he was subsequently held against his will and subjected to harsh conditions. Despite the restrictions placed on him, he reportedly managed to gain temporary access to a cellphone and contacted his mother, Clarisa Mashavira, on 25 May. In the message, he reportedly described his circumstances and indicated that he had very limited opportunities to communicate, preventing him from providing full details of his situation. The message prompted Mashavira to seek assistance from law enforcement authorities. She subsequently filed a police report naming Memory and Kundai in connection with the allegations. Sources indicate that the matter was reported at Mabvuku Police Station under reference number RRB 6870338. Efforts to obtain official comment from the Zimbabwe Republic Police were unsuccessful. National police spokesperson Paul Nyathi could not immediately be reached for comment regarding the case. The allegations come amid growing concerns across Africa about organised criminal networks that exploit vulnerable job seekers by offering employment opportunities abroad that later turn out to be linked to human trafficking, drug smuggling, or forced labour. Authorities and anti-trafficking organisations have repeatedly warned prospective migrants to verify employment offers through official channels and to be cautious of recruiters who arrange travel without clear contracts, employer details, or legal documentation. At this stage, the allegations made by Chimbaru have not been tested in court, and investigations are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding his travel, the individuals involved, and whether any criminal offences were committed. The case highlights the risks faced by desperate job seekers who may be targeted by sophisticated recruitment networks operating across multiple countries, often using promises of overseas employment to lure victims into dangerous situations. Zimbabwe drug trafficking

BULAWAYO – Teenagers involved in Bulawayo's notorious "Vuzu" party culture are increasingly abandoning traditional house parties and adopting mobile gatherings in hired kombis as they seek to evade detection by parents, guardians, and law enforcement agencies. The National AIDS Council (NAC) has warned that the new trend, known among young people as "mjeje," is becoming a growing public health and child protection concern, with reports that alcohol, drugs, and risky sexual behaviour are taking place inside moving vehicles. Vuzu parties have long been associated with underage drinking, substance abuse, and unsafe sexual practices among teenagers, drawing concern from health officials, educators, parents, and law enforcement authorities. However, NAC says intensified efforts to crack down on traditional house-based gatherings have prompted organisers to change tactics. Speaking during a youth engagement programme at Isilwane Youth Centre in Old Pumula, Bulawayo, NAC Programmes Officer Douglas Moyo said authorities have made significant progress in disrupting conventional Vuzu parties through coordinated action involving multiple government departments and security agencies. "As a community of Bulawayo, we now have new strategies through a multi-sectoral committee at the provincial level involving security agencies, where we have come up with measures to deal with Vuzu parties. The teenagers know that," said Moyo. He explained that young people are now hiring commuter omnibuses and using them as mobile party venues. "What they have since done is transform the Vuzu party into something different. They hire a kombi, get in with their girlfriends, alcohol, and other substances, then simply drive around with no destination," he said. According to NAC, the mobile nature of the gatherings makes them significantly more difficult to identify and disrupt than traditional house parties, which often attracted attention through loud music and large crowds. Health officials fear the trend may expose young people to increased risks, including alcohol abuse, drug use, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV infection, and road safety dangers. "Along the way, anything can happen inside that kombi. They are drinking, smoking, and engaging in sexual activities while moving around. The famous Vuzu parties are no longer there. If you go looking for houses with loud music in the suburbs, you may not find them," Moyo said. The phenomenon has raised concern among organisations working in HIV prevention and adolescent health, particularly given the longstanding association between Vuzu parties and unprotected sexual activity. Previous reports linked such gatherings to situations where teenagers engaged in multiple sexual encounters, often without adequate protection, increasing vulnerability to HIV, STIs, and unintended pregnancies. In response to the emerging trend, NAC says it has engaged law enforcement agencies, including traffic police and criminal investigation officers, to monitor suspicious vehicles believed to be involved in the gatherings. "That's another version that we still need to deal with. We have engaged traffic police and CID officers to be on the lookout for these kombis. Most of them have tinted windows and are well-decorated and attractive-looking vehicles. They thought we didn't know, but we know," said Moyo. Authorities believe increased community awareness, parental involvement, and coordinated enforcement efforts will be critical in addressing the evolving challenge. Child welfare advocates say the development highlights the need for broader conversations around youth recreation, substance abuse prevention, and sexual health education. As authorities adapt to changing patterns of behaviour among teenagers, NAC has urged parents, schools, churches, and community leaders to remain vigilant and actively engage young people on issues affecting their well-being. The organisation says addressing the root causes behind substance abuse and risky behaviour remains essential if communities are to effectively combat the problem and protect vulnerable youths from harm. Bulawayo Vuzu parties

HARARE – A Russian national has been arrested at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on allegations of human trafficking after allegedly facilitating the travel of a Zimbabwean man to Russia under circumstances now under investigation by authorities. Leonid Koftev, 36, appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa on Wednesday, facing charges of human trafficking, breaching immigration conditions, and operating an unregistered employment agency. The court remanded him in custody until June 9, 2026, pending further investigations. According to court papers, Koftev was intercepted by detectives at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Monday while allegedly assisting a Zimbabwean man who was preparing to board a flight to Russia. Prosecutors allege that Koftev entered Zimbabwe on May 28, 2026, using a 30-day holiday visa and was staying in the Mandara suburb of Harare. Investigators claim he was working with an alleged accomplice based in Russia, identified only as "Constantine," to recruit Zimbabwean nationals for travel to the Eastern European country. Authorities allege that Koftev recruited at least one Zimbabwean man and facilitated his travel arrangements, including securing a Russian electronic visa, airline tickets, and accommodation bookings. Court documents indicate that the victim had been booked on an Ethiopian Airlines flight destined for Russia. On the day of the arrest, prosecutors say Koftev collected the man from Budiriro before driving him to the airport. Detectives reportedly intercepted the pair before departure and recovered travel documents allegedly linked to the arrangement, including the Russian e-visa, flight tickets, and hotel reservation confirmations. While the State has laid a human trafficking charge, prosecutors have not yet publicly disclosed the specific facts underpinning the allegation or whether investigators believe the recruitment was linked to employment opportunities, military activities, or other purposes. The National Prosecuting Authority has indicated that investigations remain ongoing. State prosecutors opposed bail, arguing that Koftev poses a flight risk due to his foreign nationality and international connections. The prosecution further argued that releasing him could jeopardise investigations and create opportunities for interference with witnesses. The arrest comes amid growing scrutiny over reports of Zimbabwean nationals being recruited to travel to Russia. In recent months, concerns have emerged regarding the recruitment of foreign nationals into activities connected to Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Earlier this year, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda revealed that at least 18 Zimbabweans had been killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. According to the minister, at least 63 other Zimbabweans were believed to remain in the conflict zone. The disclosures sparked public concern over recruitment networks allegedly targeting unemployed young people and job seekers with promises of work opportunities abroad. Authorities have not confirmed whether the case involving Koftev is directly linked to military recruitment activities. The arrest highlights growing concerns among law enforcement agencies about international recruitment operations and the potential exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking employment opportunities outside Zimbabwe. Human trafficking experts have previously warned that some international recruitment schemes can disguise exploitative arrangements behind promises of employment, education, or travel opportunities. Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as investigations continue. The matter returns to court on June 9, when prosecutors are expected to provide an update on the status of investigations and the charges facing the accused. Russian national arrested in Zimbabwe

HARARE – Thousands of families and tens of thousands of small and medium-sized businesses face the prospect of losing their homes and livelihoods as the City of Harare intensifies a sweeping crackdown on illegal settlements, land invasions, and unauthorised developments across the capital. The exercise, which city authorities say is aimed at restoring order, protecting environmentally sensitive areas and curbing the activities of land barons, is expected to affect several suburbs across Harare, including high-density, medium-density and low-density residential areas. According to the latest Town Clerk's report on the regularisation and demolition of illegal structures, a City of Harare task force has already surveyed 22,255 sites as part of an ongoing assessment of unauthorised developments. Authorities have warned that structures built on wetlands, open spaces, farms, vleis, school sites, clinic sites, and other protected land will not be spared during the forthcoming demolition campaign. The report identifies a number of suburbs where demolitions and clearances are planned, including Greendale, Belvedere, Budiriro, Kuwadzana, Mabvuku, Glen View, Mabelreign, Tynwald, Crowborough, Chisipite, Glen Lorne, Southlea Park, Hopley, Mainway Meadows, Tafara, and Hatcliffe. Several structures in Harare South and Whitecliff have already been demolished, leaving some families homeless and forcing affected business operators to count significant financial losses after authorities moved in to enforce council regulations. The City of Harare says the operation is targeting illegal settlements allegedly linked to land barons, politically connected individuals, and organised groups that have occupied land reserved for public infrastructure and environmental protection. According to the report, land invasions escalated significantly following the August 2023 elections. "Well-organised and coordinated rampant land invasions, fueled by politicians across the political divide, land barons, and general invaders, intensified around August 2023," the report states. Council officials say some illegal settlers have occupied land that had already been allocated or leased to legitimate beneficiaries who were still undertaking infrastructure development before taking possession. In many cases, authorities allege that invaders moved onto the land, anticipating eventual regularisation by the government or local authorities. "Such invaders occupy the land illegally, anticipating regularisation. All these illegal developments shall be demolished," the report warns. The report also highlights growing concerns over the use of allegedly fraudulent documents to facilitate illegal land occupations. Authorities claim that some individuals have presented offer letters, agreements of sale, and title deeds bearing scanned or forged signatures, particularly in medium-density and low-density suburbs. The council says all suspected cases of fraud are being referred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for investigation. "A clear message is being sent to all land barons that the council will not tolerate lawlessness or the abuse of the Co-operative Act and the Parallel Development Concept by politically connected individuals and elites who invade council and government land," the report states. The scale of the planned demolitions is significant. The report indicates that more than 5,000 houses in high-density suburbs could be demolished under 37 existing High Court orders, alongside structures belonging to more than 40 illegal housing cooperatives. In Mabelreign, Meyrick Park, Sentosa, and Madokero, at least 67 structures have been earmarked for demolition. Approximately 200 properties built along the Harare Drive expansion corridor are also scheduled for removal, while structures constructed along Willowvale Road in Glen View 8 will be affected. Council officials have clarified that the regularisation programme will not apply to developments located on wetlands, heritage sites, recreational spaces, school sites, or settlements established after the 24 September 2023 cut-off date. The demolition exercise is expected to generate significant debate as authorities balance urban planning regulations, environmental protection, and public infrastructure needs against the housing challenges facing thousands of Harare residents. Harare demolition blitz

HARARE – Two members of the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe have approached the High Court seeking to nullify the election of church president Dr Cossam Chiangwa and three other senior leaders, arguing that the vote violated the church's constitutional age limits. The application, filed at the High Court in Harare under case number HCH2288/26, challenges the election held on May 3, 2025, which elevated Dr Chiangwa to the church's highest office alongside deputy president Reverend Amon Chinyemba, secretary-general Dr Nathan Nhira, and national administrator Shepherd Sebata. Church members Daniel Mhlanga and Dennis Maposa are asking the court to declare the election invalid and order fresh elections for the affected positions within 90 days. According to court papers, the applicants argue that the AFM constitution expressly limits eligibility for presidium positions to candidates aged between 50 and 65 years at the time of election. The application relies on Clause 14.2.1 of the church regulations, which states that candidates must be "not more than 65 years at the point of election." The applicants further argue that the same age restriction applies to the offices of deputy president and secretary-general through constitutional provisions governing provincial overseers, from whom candidates for those positions are drawn. In his founding affidavit, Mhlanga alleges that attempts were made in early 2025 to increase the maximum qualifying age from 65 to 70 years. He contends that the constitutional amendment process required to effect such a change was not properly followed. "None of the procedures prescribed by Clause 13.6 were activated or complied with on February 8, 2025. The resultant resolutions are a nullity which must be set aside," Mhlanga states in court papers. The dispute centres on meetings of the church's Apostolic Council held in February 2025 at the Mufaro Conference Centre in Mushagashe, Masvingo. According to the applicants, Dr Chiangwa tabled proposals to amend the constitution to permit candidates up to the age of 70, reportedly drawing inspiration from Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024, which increased Zimbabwe's civil service retirement age to 70. The applicants argue that the proposed amendment never satisfied the constitutional requirements necessary to alter the church's governing document. They further reject suggestions that the Apostolic Council merely interpreted existing provisions rather than amending them. "There is no interpretation that reads the number 65 as 70. The meaning of 'sixty-five' was not in issue," Mhlanga argues. Maposa, who supports the application, maintains that the alleged change fundamentally altered the electoral process. "The election conducted on May 3, 2025, proceeded on the basis of the altered qualifying criteria. Persons who would otherwise have been ineligible were permitted to participate," he states in supporting papers. Dr Chiangwa acknowledged the existence of the court challenge but declined to comment on its merits, citing the pending legal proceedings. "I acknowledge the matters you have raised in your questions. I advise, however, that this matter is currently before the courts, and it is sub judice," he said in response to media inquiries. "Until the matter is finalised, we won't be making any public statements." The case is expected to attract significant attention within one of Zimbabwe's largest Pentecostal denominations, particularly given the church's history of internal disputes and leadership contests. Legal observers say the court's eventual ruling could provide important guidance on how religious organisations interpret and amend their constitutions, especially where eligibility criteria for leadership positions are concerned. The High Court is yet to set down the matter for determination. Questions have also been raised about why the applicants waited approximately a year after the election before launching the legal challenge, although this issue is likely to form part of the proceedings as the matter progresses through the courts. AFM Zimbabwe age limit dispute

VICTORIA FALLS – Political tensions within Victoria Falls City Council escalated dramatically on Thursday after a recalled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) councillor was arrested and forcibly removed from council offices, while Mayor Prince Thuso Moyo and his deputy, Lungile Nyoni, simultaneously faced growing calls for their removal from office. The incident involving the former Ward 9 councillor followed a recall process initiated by the CCC and formalised by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe. On May 27, Garwe notified the Victoria Falls Town Clerk that three CCC councillors had been recalled from council following communication from the opposition party. However, the recalled Ward 9 councillor reportedly rejected the dismissal, describing it as illegitimate and refusing to vacate council premises. Sources familiar with the incident said tensions escalated after efforts to persuade the councillor to leave the offices failed. Witnesses alleged that the councillor climbed onto a table during the confrontation, damaged a council-issued laptop, and threatened council officials, including the Town Clerk. The situation eventually required police intervention. Council meeting turning chaotic in Victoria Falls Law enforcement officers were called to restore order and reportedly restrained the councillor before taking him into custody. Authorities had not publicly disclosed the charges he may face at the time of publication. The dramatic scenes unfolded against a backdrop of ongoing political instability within the resort city's local authority, which has experienced recurring disputes over leadership, recalls, and governance issues in recent years. The latest developments come as Mayor Prince Thuso Moyo and Deputy Mayor Lungile Nyoni face possible removal through a vote of no confidence scheduled to be considered during the 64th Ordinary Council Meeting. The meeting, originally scheduled for June 2, was postponed to Thursday under circumstances that have not been publicly explained. According to documents seen by local media, 12 councillors have signed petitions seeking the removal of both officials, citing alleged misconduct, poor governance, and loss of confidence in their leadership. Among the allegations against Deputy Mayor Nyoni is his reported involvement in the suspension of the Town Clerk in December 2024, a decision councillors claim resulted in financial losses for the local authority through salary payments and investigation costs. Councillors further allege that Nyoni collected money from residents under the pretext of facilitating land allocations, claims that have raised concerns about potential legal liabilities for the council. Mayor Moyo faces separate allegations, including failure to attend official government duties, inadequate participation in council committee meetings, and poor communication with fellow councillors regarding official engagements. The petitioners argue that his leadership style has eroded trust within the council and weakened confidence in the institution. Councillors also allege that the mayor frequently acted unilaterally on matters requiring collective decision-making and failed to provide feedback on official trips undertaken on behalf of the local authority. The petition further claims that his conduct has damaged public confidence in both council and government structures. The twin crises highlight deep divisions within Victoria Falls City Council at a time when local authorities are under increasing pressure to improve service delivery, financial accountability, and governance standards. The outcome of both the councillor recall dispute and the proposed no-confidence motions could significantly reshape the political landscape within one of Zimbabwe's most important tourism municipalities. Council is expected to deliberate on the motions during its meeting, with councillors set to determine whether the mayor and deputy mayor retain the confidence of the chamber. Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Thursday's disturbance at council offices. Victoria Falls City Council crisis

The debate surrounding Zimbabwe's Medical Services Amendment Bill has reached a critical juncture. Unfortunately, the discussion is increasingly defined by corporate friction, regulatory disputes, and competing commercial interests rather than a shared vision for improving healthcare outcomes. As medical aid funders and healthcare providers clash over the provisions of the proposed law, the conversation has become consumed by questions of revenue streams, ownership structures, market dominance, tariffs, and regulatory control. In the process, the patient, the very person the healthcare system is supposed to serve, has been pushed to the margins of the debate. Both medical aid societies and healthcare providers exist, in principle, to deliver quality healthcare to patients. Yet the current discourse often sounds less like a discussion about public health and more like a battle over corporate territory. The patient has become an afterthought. To understand how Zimbabwe arrived at this point, it is necessary to revisit the evolution of the country's private healthcare financing model. In the 1990s and early 2000s, medical aid societies increasingly moved beyond their traditional role as third-party funders and began investing directly in healthcare delivery. The establishment of provider networks such as Premier Service Medical Investments (PSMI) in 2003 emerged against a backdrop of severe economic instability. At the time, medical aid societies faced mounting challenges. Healthcare practitioners demanded cash payments due to delayed remittances, tariff disputes were commonplace, healthcare costs were rising rapidly, and frequent public sector strikes disrupted service delivery. Vertical integration appeared to offer a practical solution. By owning hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and laboratories, medical aid societies could guarantee that members would continue receiving care even during periods of economic turmoil. Initially, the model served an important purpose. Over time, however, what began as a mechanism to protect patients evolved into a source of industry-wide conflict. Independent doctors, specialists, and private healthcare facilities increasingly argue that vertically integrated medical aid societies enjoy an unfair competitive advantage. When the same organisation funds treatment, owns healthcare facilities, operates pharmacies, and controls laboratory services, critics argue that the potential for exclusionary practices becomes difficult to ignore. The Competition and Tariff Commission has on several occasions intervened in disputes involving market dominance and competition concerns. Yet despite regulatory involvement, the conflict remains largely commercial. Healthcare providers are fighting for fair reimbursement rates and faster claim settlements. Medical aid societies are defending business models they believe improve efficiency and reduce costs for members. Both sides have legitimate concerns. But while boardrooms debate balance sheets and market share, patients continue to navigate the consequences. For many Zimbabweans, these corporate battles translate into real-life barriers to healthcare. A patient may faithfully pay monthly medical aid contributions only to discover that their card is not accepted by a preferred doctor because of unresolved tariff disputes. Faced with limited options, they must either pay cash they cannot afford or travel elsewhere to access treatment. In such situations, patient choice, convenience, and dignity are often sacrificed. On the other hand, healthcare providers warn that some provisions of the proposed legislation, particularly those relating to emergency treatment obligations, could place additional financial burdens on already struggling private institutions if there is no effective reimbursement mechanism. Should private facilities become financially unsustainable, the result would be fewer healthcare providers, longer waiting times, and reduced access to care. Once again, the patient bears the consequences. This is why the Medical Services Amendment Bill cannot become merely a legislative compromise designed to settle corporate disputes. If the final law simply balances competing commercial interests without fundamentally improving patient outcomes, it will have failed its most important test. The central question lawmakers should ask is simple: How will this legislation improve the experience, access, and well-being of the patient? A sustainable healthcare system requires more than regulatory compliance. It requires trust between funders, providers, and patients. The legislation should therefore prioritise measures that protect patient choice, ensure fair competition, improve transparency, and guarantee the timely settlement of medical claims. Healthcare funding mechanisms must be designed to maximise actual patient care rather than institutional advantage. Ultimately, no Act of Parliament can create goodwill. Legislation alone cannot eliminate decades of mistrust between healthcare funders and service providers. What lawmakers can do, however, is establish a framework that places the patient at the centre of every decision. If emotion, commercial interests, and institutional pride continue to dominate the conversation, the ultimate casualty will not be the medical aid executive or the private healthcare provider. It will be the ordinary Zimbabwean seeking treatment. The healthcare sector does not need winners and losers. It needs a system that works. And that begins by ensuring that patients are never treated as bargaining chips in battles they neither created nor control. Medical Services Amendment Bill