Zimbabwe delegation at the United Nations General Assembly NEW YORK — Zimbabwe has been elected to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council after securing overwhelming support from member states during elections held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Wednesday. The country received 182 votes out of 191 cast by members of the UN General Assembly, earning a two-year term on the powerful 15-member council beginning on 1 January 2027. The result was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, which announced the victory on its official social media platforms. “Zimbabwe has just won a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, receiving 182 votes out of 191,” the ministry said. The election marks a significant diplomatic achievement for Zimbabwe, which will represent African interests on the Security Council during a period of growing geopolitical tensions and global security challenges. Zimbabwe joins Austria, Portugal, and Trinidad and Tobago as newly elected non-permanent members of the council. The four countries will begin serving their terms on 1 January 2027 and remain on the council until the end of 2028. In the Asia-Pacific contest, Kyrgyzstan emerged victorious after four rounds of secret balloting, defeating the Philippines. Kyrgyzstan secured 142 votes compared to the Philippines' 49 votes and will replace Pakistan on the council. One of the biggest surprises of the election was the failure of Germany to secure a seat despite an extensive diplomatic campaign. Germany finished third in the contest for the two seats allocated to the Western European and Others Group, receiving 104 votes. Portugal and Austria secured the available positions with 134 and 131 votes, respectively. Diplomatic observers described Zimbabwe's strong performance as evidence of broad support among UN member states for its candidacy. The United Nations Security Council is widely regarded as the most influential organ within the United Nations system. It is the only UN body empowered to make legally binding decisions on international peace and security matters. These include imposing sanctions, authorising peacekeeping missions, and approving the use of military force when necessary. The council consists of 15 members, including five permanent members with veto powers: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China. The remaining 10 seats are held by elected members serving two-year terms, with five new members elected annually. Under the rotation system, Zimbabwe will take over from Somalia as the African representative on the council. Trinidad and Tobago will replace Panama, while Portugal and Austria will succeed Denmark and Greece. The election is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe's diplomatic profile and provide the country with a platform to participate directly in discussions on international peace, security, and conflict resolution over the next two years. For Harare, the victory represents one of its most significant multilateral diplomatic successes in recent years and places Zimbabwe at the centre of some of the world's most important global security deliberations. Zimbabwe UN Security Council

HARARE — A wave of urgent Constitutional Court applications filed by voters across Zimbabwe is threatening to complicate Parliament's consideration of the controversial Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill, which seeks to extend the terms of office of elected officials and introduce significant changes to the country's electoral system. The proposed legislation, currently before Parliament, would extend the tenure of sitting Members of Parliament, local authority councillors, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa by two years, moving the next elections from 2028 to 2030. The Bill has triggered intense debate among legal experts, opposition parties, civil society organisations, and constitutional activists, many of whom argue that incumbents cannot lawfully benefit from changes to constitutional term limits without the approval of voters through a referendum. Sources familiar with the matter say dozens of Members of Parliament were served with Constitutional Court applications on Tuesday following the first reading of the Bill by Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi. Reports indicate that at least 67 applications have already been filed, although legal sources suggest similar actions could eventually target all 210 MPs in the National Assembly. The legal strategy appears designed to challenge individual legislators directly within their respective constituencies rather than mounting a single nationwide court challenge. One of the most closely watched cases was filed by Nyanga North voter Tambara Casper against the constituency's MP, Chido Sanyatwe. Represented by Coghlan, Welsh & Guest Legal Practitioners, Casper is not seeking to stop Parliament from debating the Bill. Instead, he is asking the Constitutional Court to rule that even if the amendment is passed, incumbent MPs cannot legally benefit from any extension of parliamentary terms. The application argues that Section 328(7) of Zimbabwe's Constitution prohibits constitutional amendments that extend term limits from benefiting current office holders. According to the court papers, the proposed amendment's attempt to override constitutional safeguards through a "notwithstanding Section 328(7)" provision amounts to what the applicant describes as an effort to bypass constitutional protections. The court challenge also targets provisions that would fundamentally alter Zimbabwe's presidential election system. Under the proposed changes, the President would no longer be elected through direct popular vote. Instead, Members of Parliament would choose the Head of State through an electoral college-style system sitting jointly as Parliament. Casper argues that the proposal infringes on citizens' political rights by removing their ability to directly elect the country's leader. Legal analysts note that the issue could become one of the most consequential constitutional questions considered by the courts in recent years, as it touches on both electoral rights and constitutional amendment procedures. The Constitutional Court applications come as political tensions surrounding Constitutional Amendment No. 3 continue to intensify. Supporters of the Bill argue that the amendments are necessary for governance reforms and administrative efficiency. Critics, however, contend that the proposals could significantly alter Zimbabwe's democratic framework and should therefore be subjected to broader public approval. Meanwhile, the ruling ZANU PF, which holds a commanding majority in Parliament, has reportedly convened a caucus meeting for its legislators ahead of the Bill's next stages. With Parliament set to continue debating the legislation and court challenges gathering momentum, the coming weeks are likely to determine whether Constitutional Amendment No. 3 proceeds through the legislative process or faces judicial intervention before a final vote can take place. The Constitutional Court has not yet indicated when it will hear the applications. Constitutional Amendment No 3 Zimbabwe

JOHANNESBURG — South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, has been plunged into fresh controversy after allegations emerged that the team fielded 12 players during an international friendly against Nicaragua National Football Team, raising questions about possible disciplinary action and administrative oversight ahead of crucial FIFA World Cup preparations. The incident comes just days after a separate visa crisis disrupted the team's travel arrangements, forcing emergency intervention before the squad departed for North America on a government-chartered flight. The controversy surfaced during a sports analysis programme when former FIFA referee and television analyst Victor Hlungwani claimed that South Africa briefly had 12 players on the field during the second half of Friday's international friendly, which ended in a goalless draw. According to Hlungwani, the situation arose shortly after halftime when head coach Hugo Broos made multiple substitutions. “Bafana Bafana played with 12 players. As play continues, we will see how 12 players are in the field of play. Does the law allow a team to play with 12 players? Not under Law 3,” Hlungwani said during the broadcast. Video footage circulating online has intensified debate among football supporters, with many questioning how such an error could occur during an official international fixture. Under Law 3 of the Laws of the Game, each team is permitted a maximum of 11 players on the field, including the goalkeeper. If an extra player participates in a match, match officials are expected to stop play, remove the additional player, and report the incident to the relevant authorities. However, whether FIFA would impose sanctions depends on several factors, including the duration of the infringement, whether it affected play, and the referee's official report. Football analysts note that friendly matches are generally treated differently from competitive fixtures, making it unclear whether any disciplinary measures will follow. The latest controversy follows a visa-related setback that delayed the team's departure for its international assignments. Several players and technical staff reportedly encountered visa processing difficulties ahead of the trip, prompting intervention from diplomatic officials to facilitate travel arrangements. Assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and the team's head of security were unable to travel with the squad after their visa applications were reportedly rejected. According to Danny Jordaan, president of the South African Football Association, authorities did not provide detailed reasons for the visa refusals. The team eventually departed on Monday, but without key members of the technical staff. The twin controversies have placed renewed scrutiny on SAFA's administrative processes at a time when Bafana Bafana is preparing for important international fixtures and continuing its World Cup campaign. Supporters have expressed concern that off-field distractions could undermine preparations as the national team seeks to build momentum on the international stage. While the football association has yet to issue a detailed response regarding the alleged 12-player incident, calls are growing for clarity on both the substitution error and the travel disruptions that have overshadowed the team's preparations. For now, Bafana Bafana's focus remains on upcoming matches, but the association may face difficult questions in the coming days as officials seek to determine how two separate administrative controversies emerged within the space of a week. Bafana Bafana 12 players

MASVINGO – A 41-year-old Bikita man has been sentenced to an effective 15 years in prison following his conviction for a shocking act of gender-based violence involving his nine-year-old niece. The convict, Tabudemo Chishaka, of Mandivenga Village under Chief Budzi, appeared before Masvingo Magistrate Archie Wochiunga, facing a charge of aggravated rape. The ruling has drawn widespread relief from local child rights organizations operating in Masvingo Province, who have been fiercely lobbying for harsher penalties against perpetrators of child abuse. The court, led by state prosecutor Precious Takuva, established that on February 22, 2026, at around 4:00 PM, the minor was walking through the village to buy tomatoes for her family when Chishaka intercepted her. "The accused, who is a biological uncle to the victim, grabbed the child by her hand and violently dragged her into a nearby disused toilet facility, where he forced himself on her," Takuva told the court. Following the assault, Chishaka resorted to coercive intimidation to conceal his crime. He explicitly threatened the traumatized minor with violence if she disclosed the incident to anyone, while simultaneously attempting to bribe her silence by promising to buy her a soft drink. He then fled the scene, instructing the victim to remain hidden in the toilet until he was far away. The heinous offense remained hidden until the following day, when the child’s grandmother noticed that she was experiencing severe discomfort and having immense difficulty sitting down normally. Upon gentle but firm questioning by her guardian, the young girl broke down and narrated her ordeal. The grandmother immediately took decisive action, accompanying the child to the local police station on February 25, 2026, to file a formal criminal complaint. Prompt law enforcement investigations quickly led to the localization and arrest of Chishaka. A comprehensive medical examination was subsequently conducted on the minor, and the resulting medical affidavit was submitted in court as overwhelming clinical evidence of physical trauma. In passing judgment, Magistrate Wochiunga condemned Chishaka’s actions as an absolute betrayal of familial trust, emphasizing that the courts have a legal duty to protect vulnerable children from predatory behavior within rural communities. Legal experts tracking the case noted that the sentence aligns directly with the judiciary's recent stringent stance regarding child maintenance laws in Zimbabwe and protective family legislation. "When family structures fail to protect children, and instead become the source of trauma, the justice system must step in with the full force of the law," commented Masvingo-based human rights attorney, Advocate Ruvimbo Munodawafa. child maintenance laws in Zimbabwe

Instagram/ishowspeed and X/@shakira | IShowSpeed's Champions is said to have outperformed Shakira and Burna Boy's Dai Dai NEW YORK — Social media has been flooded with claims that internet superstar IShowSpeed has outperformed the official FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem by music icons Shakira and Burna Boy, sparking one of the biggest online debates ahead of football's biggest tournament. The controversy erupted after IShowSpeed released his unofficial World Cup song, "World Cup (Champions)," on June 1, with fans claiming the track generated more than 120 million views across social media platforms within its first 24 hours. The song's rapid rise quickly led to comparisons with FIFA's official World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai," performed by Shakira and Burna Boy, with some social media users declaring that the YouTube star had already "won" the battle for the tournament's soundtrack. While there is little doubt that IShowSpeed's song generated significant attention online, the headline figures circulating across social media appear to be exaggerated. Claims that Champions accumulated 120 million views within a single day have not been independently verified. Available public engagement data suggests the track performed strongly across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X, but not necessarily at the levels being widely reported. Similarly, claims that Dai Dai generated only 70 million first-day views have not been substantiated by official FIFA figures or platform analytics. Industry observers note that comparing the two songs is difficult because they were released under different promotional strategies. FIFA's anthem rollout followed a traditional global marketing campaign, while IShowSpeed's release relied heavily on creator-driven engagement and viral sharing. Despite questions over the statistics, many football fans have embraced Champions because of its grassroots feel and social-media-first approach. The track references all 48 nations participating in the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup and incorporates energetic visuals, football celebrations, and fan culture that resonate strongly with younger audiences. Many supporters argue that the song captures the excitement and unpredictability of the World Cup more effectively than a conventionally produced tournament anthem. On TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, clips from the song have generated millions of interactions, helping fuel the perception that it has become the unofficial soundtrack of the tournament. One of the biggest moments in the story came when the official FIFA World Cup social media account publicly acknowledged IShowSpeed's release. Responding to the creator online, FIFA posted: "We will be in touch." The brief interaction immediately went viral, prompting speculation about a possible collaboration or official recognition of the song. Although FIFA has not announced any formal partnership, the response was widely interpreted as evidence that football's governing body had taken notice of the track's popularity. The debate ultimately reflects a broader shift in how global entertainment is consumed. For decades, official World Cup songs have been dominated by major international artists and corporate marketing campaigns. However, creators such as IShowSpeed now command audiences comparable to traditional media networks, allowing independently produced content to compete directly with official releases. While there is no evidence that Champions achieved the 120-million-view milestone claimed online, its cultural impact is undeniable. As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, the bigger story may not be whether IShowSpeed defeated Shakira and Burna Boy in raw numbers, but how creator-driven entertainment is increasingly reshaping global sports culture. For now, the battle over the tournament's unofficial soundtrack remains one of football's most unexpected pre-World Cup talking points. IShowSpeed World Cup song

CHIMANIMANI — For months, the tranquil waters of the Haroni River flowed brown with sediment as excavators chewed through riverbanks and mining equipment roared day and night in one of Zimbabwe's most ecologically sensitive regions. Today, much of that machinery stands abandoned. The sudden departure of Chinese nationals operating alluvial gold mining camps along the Haroni River has brought relief to communities in Chimanimani, but it has also left behind pressing questions about environmental destruction, regulatory oversight, and the growing tensions surrounding foreign mining operations in Zimbabwe. The miners reportedly fled the area following mounting pressure from local communities, government intervention, and growing concerns that the dispute could escalate into a cross-border conflict involving communities in neighbouring Mozambique. A River Under Siege For residents living along the Haroni River, the environmental impact was impossible to ignore. Villagers say large-scale riverbed mining altered the natural course of the river, polluted water supplies, and damaged fragile ecosystems that support local livelihoods. Farmers complained that water used for irrigation became increasingly contaminated, while downstream communities struggled with declining water quality. "The river is our lifeline," said one community leader. "When the water became muddy and polluted, it affected farming, livestock, and domestic use. People felt powerless as they watched the destruction continue." Environmental activists say riverbed mining is among the most destructive forms of small-scale extraction because it destabilises riverbanks, increases erosion, and damages aquatic ecosystems. The Haroni River is particularly significant because it flows into Mozambique, meaning environmental impacts extend beyond Zimbabwe's borders. Cultural Heritage at Risk Beyond environmental concerns, local communities accused the miners of desecrating sacred sites used by the Ndau people for traditional rainmaking ceremonies. For generations, sections of the river have held cultural and spiritual significance, serving as gathering places for traditional rituals linked to agriculture and community wellbeing. Traditional leaders and community members said mining operations disrupted these sites, deepening resentment among local residents. "The issue was not only about gold," said a resident from the area. "People felt their heritage and identity were being disrespected." Rising Tensions Across the Border As pollution levels increased and river diversions intensified, concerns began to spread into neighbouring Mozambique. Community representatives reported that downstream Mozambican villages complained about deteriorating water quality and reduced river flows. According to local sources, frustration reached such levels that threats of retaliation against communities on the Zimbabwean side were being openly discussed. The prospect of a localised cross-border dispute alarmed authorities and added urgency to calls for intervention. Regional observers note that rivers shared by multiple countries often become flashpoints when environmental degradation affects communities across national boundaries. Allegations of Protection One of the most contentious aspects of the dispute involves allegations that the mining operations initially enjoyed protection from influential local figures. Villagers claim the miners operated under the protection of members of the Zimbabwe National Army and some traditional leaders, making it difficult for residents to challenge the activities during the early stages of the operation. These allegations have not been independently verified, and neither the military nor government authorities have publicly commented on the claims. However, residents argue that concerns raised months earlier could have prevented much of the environmental damage if action had been taken sooner. Community Defiance Changes the Tide As frustration grew, residents began organising community meetings and petitioning authorities to intervene. Environmental groups, traditional community structures, and local activists increasingly amplified concerns about the impact of the mining activities. The pressure eventually reached provincial and national authorities, prompting closer scrutiny of operations along the river. Faced with growing opposition and the possibility of enforcement action, the operators reportedly halted activities and left the area, abandoning equipment and infrastructure at several sites. For many residents, the departure marked a rare victory for grassroots activism. The Road to Recovery While communities have welcomed the end of the mining activities, significant challenges remain. Environmental experts warn that river systems damaged by alluvial mining can take years to recover. Restoration efforts may require riverbank stabilisation, rehabilitation of affected ecosystems, and continuous monitoring of water quality. Local leaders are now calling for a full environmental assessment and greater transparency regarding how the mining operations were authorised in the first place. The Haroni River crisis has become another powerful reminder of the delicate balance between resource extraction and environmental stewardship. As Zimbabwe continues to pursue mining-led economic growth, communities across the country will be watching closely to see whether the lessons from Chimanimani lead to stronger protections for both people and the environment. Haroni River gold mining

MAPUTO — The Mozambican government says at least five of its citizens were killed in what it described as xenophobic attacks in South Africa over the weekend, marking the first officially reported deaths linked to a recent wave of anti-immigration protests sweeping parts of the country. In a statement released on Tuesday, the government said approximately 800 Mozambican nationals were caught up in violence that erupted in the coastal town of Mossel Bay in South Africa’s Western Cape Province on Friday. According to the statement, seven Mozambican citizens died during the unrest. Five of the deaths were directly linked to the attacks, while two others died in a road accident while travelling back to Mozambique. “Regrettably, seven Mozambican citizens have died, five of them as a direct consequence of the xenophobic attacks and the other two as a result of a road accident, when they were travelling in a private vehicle on their way back to Mozambique,” the government said. Mozambican authorities said around 300 citizens returned home on Saturday following the violence, while more than 500 others were relocated to a secure location in the Western Cape pending repatriation. “The remaining just over 500 have since been sheltered in a safe location in the Western Cape Province, and the process of their repatriation to Mozambique is already underway,” the statement added. The repatriation effort is being coordinated between Mozambican authorities and South African officials as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals in affected areas. South African police confirmed that they are investigating the deaths of two men at an informal settlement in Mossel Bay, approximately 380 kilometres east of Cape Town. While authorities acknowledged reports of xenophobic violence in the area, police have not officially linked the deaths to the protests and have not disclosed the nationalities of the victims. The unrest comes amid a growing wave of anti-migrant demonstrations in several South African communities, where some groups have accused undocumented immigrants of contributing to crime, unemployment, and pressure on public services. The Mayor of Mossel Bay, Dirk Kotze, expressed concern over the attacks and called for calm. “We are deeply concerned and dismayed by the current xenophobic attacks where people have been murdered, houses burned, and families displaced,” Kotze said. Community leaders and human rights organisations have also condemned the violence, warning that attacks targeting foreign nationals threaten social cohesion and regional relations within Southern Africa. The latest incidents have raised concerns across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), where cross-border migration plays a significant role in regional economies. Mozambique and South Africa share strong economic and social ties, with thousands of Mozambicans living and working in South Africa, particularly in mining, agriculture, construction, and domestic service sectors. Analysts warn that continued violence against foreign nationals could strain diplomatic relations and undermine efforts to promote regional integration and labour mobility. Authorities in both countries have urged communities to remain calm while investigations into the incidents continue. South Africa xenophobic attacks

HARARE – A powerful coalition of retired military generals and former senior civil servants has directly accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of being the “principal architect and principal beneficiary” of the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 (CAB3). In an explosive, highly charged statement issued on June 2, 2026, by Air Marshal Henry Muchena (Rtd) on behalf of the group, the former security chiefs warned that the piece of legislation serves “narrow individual interests, not the national interest.” They explicitly labeled CAB3 a “personal and political project of a cabal” aimed at extending presidential and parliamentary term limits without the electorate's absolute consent. The fallout represents the deepest public fracture within Zimbabwe's ruling establishment since the 2017 military intervention. The most damaging revelations in the statement allege an industrial-scale bribery campaign designed to bypass constitutional safeguards systematically. The retired generals claim they possess credible intelligence detailing the following financial inducements: Provincial Co-option: Provincial party chairmen were allegedly induced with brand-new motor vehicles and direct cash payouts of US$100,000 each to champion the bill. The US$31 Million Budget: Prominent businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei reportedly convened a secret, closed caucus during the 40th birthday celebrations of Information Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera. Parliamentary Bribes: Attendees of this caucus allegedly included Cabinet Ministers Ziyambi Ziyambi (Justice), Mthuli Ncube (Finance), Torerayi Moyo (Education), and Martin Rushwaya (Presidential Affairs). At this meeting, a staggering US$31 million budget was allegedly formalized, earmarking US$50,000 for every individual MP who votes in favor of the bill. “These are not allegations we make lightly,” the military veterans stated. “We refuse to stand silently by while its constitutional foundations are sold to the highest bidder. IT WILL SIMPLY NOT HAPPEN.” The group revealed that they had formally submitted a petition to Parliament on March 18, 2026, during the initial public hearing phases. However, they dismissed the entire state-led feedback mechanism as heavily managed, artificial, and "choreographed." According to Air Marshal Muchena, ordinary citizens were forcibly compelled to sign thousands of fraudulent letters of support, while dissenting voices were systematically blacked out by the media. A formal demand by the veterans for a national referendum to settle the term-extension debate has been ignored by the executive. The statement also detailed two highly tense, closed-door meetings held directly with President Mnangagwa on May 18 and 19, 2026. When the delegation warned the President that CAB3 risked completely alienating the populace from the constitutional order, Mnangagwa reportedly dismissed their concerns, saying simply: “Whoever wins, wins.” The generals noted that this cold response “lays bare the contempt with which the constitutional concerns of citizens are regarded at the highest level of executive authority.” Refusing to back down, the group confirmed that comprehensive legal applications challenging the constitutionality of CAB3 were officially filed before the Constitutional Court on May 20, 2026. Simultaneously, grassroots voters have begun lodging legal challenges against individual Members of Parliament within their respective constituencies. Addressing lawmakers directly, the generals issued a stern, uncompromising warning regarding their upcoming vote when Parliament debates the bill: “Complicity in CAB3 constitutes a blatant violation of the Constitution of Zimbabwe… Every Zimbabwean will remember those who chose personal enrichment over constitutional duty. WE WARN DO NOT BETRAY THE PEOPLE.” The veterans closed by urging all patriotic Zimbabweans to mobilize the electorate in active, sustained opposition against any MP attempting to trade away the country's founding law "in a caucus room at a birthday party." Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 Zimbabwe

HARARE — Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Monday visited the headquarters of Tabernacle of Grace (TOG) in Harare, where they questioned church workers and pastors regarding the whereabouts of church leader Apostle Bastirai Java. Sources familiar with the matter said the officers indicated they were seeking Apostle Java in connection with a viral audio recording that has generated widespread political debate after allegedly exposing discussions involving businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei and Zimbabwe's succession politics. Witnesses said several CID officers arrived at the church premises in multiple vehicles before interviewing church staff and senior pastors. Investigators later reportedly visited Apostle Java's residence, where they sought to verify details relating to his address and vehicles. Among those questioned was Apostle Java's younger brother, Pastor Simba Java. The police operation follows the circulation of a leaked audio recording that emerged on social media last week. The recording, which has not been independently verified, allegedly contains discussions concerning political succession, constitutional amendments, and influential figures within government and business circles. Sources close to the church said investigators did not disclose the specific offences they were investigating or any potential charges that could be brought against Apostle Java. Both Apostle Java and his brother, Passion Java, have publicly denied involvement in the recording. The audio has attracted significant public attention, with critics claiming it contains explosive allegations regarding political influence and succession planning. Supporters of businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei have dismissed the recording as fabricated and misleading. The developments have also reignited discussion surrounding a long-running feud between Apostle Java and Spirit Embassy founder Prophet Uebert Angel. Sources familiar with the dispute allege that tensions between the two prominent church leaders have intensified following the release of the audio. However, no independent evidence has been produced to substantiate claims that any individual influenced or directed police actions. Several allegations circulating on social media and within religious circles, including claims of lobbying for arrests, financial inducements, and previous attempts to target rival church leaders, remain unverified and have not been confirmed by law enforcement authorities. As of Monday evening, police had not publicly announced any charges against Apostle Java or released an official statement outlining the scope of the investigation. Legal experts note that the circulation of audio recordings can raise several potential legal issues, including questions relating to authenticity, privacy, defamation, and the publication of false information. Any criminal investigation would ultimately depend on evidence gathered by authorities. Political analysts say the case is likely to attract significant public interest given the high-profile individuals mentioned in the leaked recording and the broader debate surrounding constitutional reforms and succession politics in Zimbabwe. For now, the investigation remains ongoing, with authorities yet to clarify whether Apostle Java is being treated as a suspect, a witness, or a person of interest in the matter. Church representatives have not announced whether Apostle Java intends to present himself to investigators or issue a public statement regarding the latest developments. Apostle Java investigation

HARARE — Residents of Stone Ridge were gripped by panic on Tuesday as police moved into the area to oversee an eviction and demolition exercise, triggering scenes of confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty among affected families. Scores of residents gathered outside their homes as authorities marked structures slated for demolition, while police maintained a heavy presence to ensure the operation proceeded without disruption. Witnesses said tensions escalated throughout the day as families scrambled to salvage belongings from homes and buildings facing destruction. Some residents expressed shock, claiming they had little time to prepare for the operation. “We do not know where we are going to sleep tonight,” said one resident, who watched as officials inspected properties in the neighbourhood. “People have invested their life savings here.” Another resident described the atmosphere as chaotic, with many families rushing to remove furniture, household goods, and building materials before demolition teams moved in. Police officers were deployed across the area to maintain order and prevent confrontations as the exercise unfolded. The reasons behind the evictions and demolitions were not immediately clear, although such operations are often linked to disputes over land ownership, illegal settlements, planning regulations, or court orders. Human rights groups and residents' associations have previously called on authorities to ensure that affected families receive adequate notice and that relocation arrangements are made where necessary to minimise hardship. As the operation continued, uncertainty remained over the number of households likely to be affected and whether additional demolitions would be carried out in the coming days. Authorities had not yet issued an official statement on the exercise by the time of publication. The developments have left many residents fearing displacement, with families anxiously awaiting clarification on their future as the operation continues. Stone Ridge evictions

New cancer treatment machine installed at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare HARARE — The Zimbabwean government has commissioned new state-of-the-art cancer treatment and diagnostic equipment at the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, funded through revenue generated from the country's Sugar Content Tax. The investment is part of broader efforts to strengthen Zimbabwe’s healthcare system and improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatment services, which have long been constrained by limited equipment and specialist resources. Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube, said the latest acquisition demonstrates the government's commitment to reinvesting domestic revenue into critical public healthcare infrastructure. “Treasury remains committed to channelling Sugar Content Tax revenues towards modern healthcare infrastructure,” Ncube said. The newly installed equipment at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals is expected to significantly enhance the country's capacity to diagnose and treat cancer locally, reducing pressure on patients who often face lengthy waiting periods or expensive referrals to foreign medical facilities. Health experts have consistently identified early diagnosis as one of the most important factors in improving cancer survival rates. The introduction of advanced diagnostic technology is expected to strengthen early detection programmes and support more effective treatment planning. Government officials say additional cancer diagnostic machines are already being procured and will be deployed to provincial and general hospitals across the country as part of efforts to decentralise specialised healthcare services. Zimbabwe introduced the Sugar Content Tax on selected sugary beverages as part of a public health strategy aimed at reducing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases while generating revenue for health sector investments. The tax has become an important source of funding for medical equipment procurement, particularly in areas requiring high-value capital investment, such as oncology, radiology, and specialised diagnostic services. According to the Treasury, the latest cancer equipment project demonstrates how locally generated resources can be leveraged to improve healthcare outcomes without relying solely on external funding. The investment aligns with the government's broader Vision 2030 agenda, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy with access to modern healthcare services. Authorities believe expanding cancer treatment infrastructure will reduce medical tourism, lower treatment costs for patients, and improve healthcare accessibility nationwide. Patients' advocacy groups have welcomed the development, noting that increased access to modern diagnostic and treatment equipment could shorten waiting times and improve outcomes for thousands of Zimbabweans diagnosed with cancer each year. As additional machines are rolled out to hospitals across the country, healthcare stakeholders say sustained investment in equipment, specialist training, and maintenance will be critical to ensuring long-term improvements in cancer care delivery. Zimbabwe cancer treatment machines

HARARE — ZANU PF national legal secretary and Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has reaffirmed that Members of Parliament will vote on the controversial Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill (CAB 3) through a public show of hands rather than a secret ballot, arguing that the process promotes transparency and accountability. The Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament this week and has already sparked intense political debate across Zimbabwe. The proposed legislation seeks to make sweeping changes to the country’s governance framework, including extending the terms of office for the President, Members of Parliament, and local authority councillors from five years to seven years. If passed, the amendments could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure by two years to 2030. The Bill also proposes replacing Zimbabwe’s direct presidential election system with a parliamentary election process in which legislators would elect the President. Addressing a ZANU PF Provincial Coordinating Committee meeting in Chinhoyi, Ziyambi dismissed calls for a secret ballot, saying public voting ensures elected representatives remain accountable to voters. “We want our ZANU PF candidates to be voted for. So, if they come fooling you that a secret ballot is the best because MPs will be bribed, refuse, because it will be public voting and transparent,” Ziyambi said. In remarks that have generated further debate, the minister appeared to acknowledge concerns about vote-buying, telling party supporters to remain loyal despite potential inducements from political rivals. “But if they come with money, take it, but know who to support,” he said. Ziyambi also praised Mashonaland West province for what he described as strong mobilisation during the public consultation process on CAB 3, saying the province recorded the highest attendance at hearings and the largest number of written submissions. The proposed constitutional amendments have attracted criticism from opposition parties, civil society organisations, and constitutional experts who argue that key provisions of the Constitution are being altered and should therefore be subjected to a national referendum. Legal analysts point to Section 328 of the Constitution, which requires a referendum for amendments affecting certain entrenched constitutional provisions. Critics argue that changes to presidential terms and the method of electing a President fundamentally alter Zimbabwe’s democratic framework. Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said constitutional reforms of this magnitude require a broad national consensus. “Any constitutional amendment that changes how citizens choose their leaders will inevitably attract public scrutiny and demands for wider consultation,” he said. Meanwhile, self-styled Citizens Coalition for Change secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu has defended Zimbabwe’s constitutional amendment procedures, arguing they are more consultative than those used in several Southern African countries. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Tshabangu said countries such as Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, and Seychelles often amend constitutions through parliamentary processes without lengthy consultation periods or referendums. “My submission rests on the fact that we are a bit more democratic here in Zimbabwe than most other SADC member States when it comes to issues related to constitutional amendments,” Tshabangu said. The Bill requires a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and Senate before it can become law, setting the stage for one of Zimbabwe’s most consequential constitutional battles in recent years. CAB 3 Zimbabwe