HOT TOPICS ONLINE .............. *Charamba Confirms Presence Of Military Tanks* (ZimEye) *President Mnangagwa “To Be Forced” to Rule Until 2030, “Against His Will”...* (myZimbabwe) *President Mnangagwa swears in minister, deputy ministers and commissioners* (Zbc) *EU extends Zim restrictive measures, delists ZDI* (NewsDay) *Muchinguri Letter Over Attempt To Fire Blessed Geza* *Health Ministry Reports Spike In Malaria And Diarrhoea Cases* (Pindula) *Karoi man kills wife, headman and teen relative* (Herald) *WestProp Holdings, Ken Sharpe win High Court gag order against Kukurigo* (Zimlive) *Mnangagwa adviser and boreholes tsar Tungwarara accused of US$350k fraud* (Zimlive) *South African Government Cracks Down on Illegal Employment: Employers Fined for Hiring Foreign Workers Without Permits* (iharare) ------- ©Zoomic Media https://chat.whatsapp.com/JuCIubgOuJg7F6II7ObGzg *Charamba Confirms Presence Of Military Tanks* (ZimEye) By Munacho Gwamanda-President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, confirmed the presence of military tanks in Harare and said they were preparing for drills. More than 20 military tankers were spotted in Harare’s Borrowdale area Wednesday morning in a scene eerily reminiscent of the events leading up to the 2017 coup that ousted former President Robert Mugabe. This sudden and unusual movement of military hardware has fueled speculation of another possible coup amid deepening divisions within Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU-PF. The government, however, has downplayed the situation, with Charamba posting on social media as dhonzamusoro007, stating that the tanks’ presence is part of routine military drills. In a message on social media, Charamba urged the public to support the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), stating: “Support your Zimbabwe Defence Force, ZDF, as it goes through the routine of ensuring all its battle systems are in tip-top state!!! #zdf, KEEPING YOU SECURE AND DEFENDED.” Despite these assurances, political tensions are at an all-time high following reports by ZimEye that a coup may be in the making. A viral video featuring an unnamed prophet predicting a bloody military takeover has added to the growing anxiety. In the video, the prophet declares: “The Lord has spoken, and I must pray for Zimbabwe. I saw another coup—one that will bring chaos and bloodshed. This will not be like before; this time, there will be much suffering, and many lives will be lost. I saw the current government being overthrown, and in its place, violence and turmoil will arise. The Bible commands us to pray for those in authority, and now more than ever, Zimbabwe needs our prayers.” The prophecy suggests that a secret deal regarding leadership succession has collapsed, fueling a power struggle that could soon lead to violent consequences. This prediction comes on the heels of a direct threat issued by Blessing Geza, a war veteran and senior ZANU-PF Central Committee member, who has warned that Mnangagwa’s rule is under serious threat. Geza, a former liberation war fighter with strong military connections, has publicly declared that war veterans will take drastic steps to remove Mnangagwa. His ultimatum to the president has intensified speculation that a military faction loyal to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is preparing to take action against Mnangagwa. Reports suggest that senior military officials and war veterans recently held secret meetings to strategize ways to block Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his rule beyond his current term under the controversial #ed2030 agenda. Sources indicate that the rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga has reached a breaking point, with Chiwenga’s faction believing Mnangagwa has reneged on a 2017 coup agreement that allegedly promised Chiwenga the presidency after Mnangagwa’s first term. The current tensions mirror the events leading up to the 2017 military coup that ended Mugabe’s 37-year rule. The coup was orchestrated by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) under the command of then-General Constantino Chiwenga, with the backing of key military figures such as the late Air Marshal Perrence Shiri and retired General Sibusiso Moyo. The coup was triggered by Mugabe’s decision to fire Mnangagwa as Vice President, paving the way for his wife, Grace Mugabe, to succeed him. This move alienated war veterans and the military, who viewed Grace as an opportunist attempting to seize power. The military intervened, placing Mugabe under house arrest and forcing his resignation. Mnangagwa was then installed as president, with the understanding that he would serve one term before stepping aside for Chiwenga. Since taking power, Mnangagwa has systematically sidelined Chiwenga and purged military officers loyal to him. Many key figures from the 2017 coup, including Perrence Shiri and Paradzai Zimondi, have died under suspicious circumstances, leading to speculation that Mnangagwa orchestrated their eliminations to weaken Chiwenga’s support base. Despite these moves, Chiwenga still commands loyalty within the security forces. Reports suggest that military officers and war veterans aligned with him are now considering drastic measures to remove Mnangagwa, whom they accuse of entrenching power and betraying the military pact that brought him to office. A recent high-level meeting reportedly took place in Mashonaland Central, a province known for political coups and opposition to Mnangagwa. Sources close to the discussions claim that many within the military are disillusioned with Mnangagwa’s leadership and are actively plotting against him. One insider stated: “You hear what credible war veterans like Blessing Geza are saying. He is not hallucinating; he is communicating a message from the script, and you must listen to him carefully.” Adding to the uncertainty, another prominent prophet, Ian Ndlovu, has issued a stark warning about a looming coup, stating: “We must continue to pray for our nation… Two trains are set to collide. I personally pray for peace for all ordinary Zimbabweans, but change must not be stopped, in whatever form it needs to come.” Unlike in 2017, Mnangagwa has fortified his grip on the intelligence and security apparatus, appointing loyalists to key military positions. He has also moved to consolidate his power within ZANU-PF by neutralizing potential rivals and securing control over key state institutions. However, history has shown that Zimbabwe’s political landscape remains unpredictable. If discontent within the military reaches a critical point, even a heavily fortified president can be overthrown. With tensions between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga escalating and war veterans openly voicing their grievances, Zimbabwe may be on the brink of yet another political upheaval. Support your Zimbabwe Defence Force, ZDF as it goes through the routine of ensuring all its battle systems are in tip-top state!!! #zdf, KEEPING YOU SECURE AND DEFENDED!!!!! https://t.co/8ZGGPjdGyL — dhonzamusoro007 (@dhonzamusoro007) February 19, 2025 ……………….🤔 pic.twitter.com/Oh5tlc73sg — COZWVA (@cozwva) February 18, 2025 -------- *President Mnangagwa “To Be Forced” to Rule Until 2030, “Against His Will”...* (myZimbabwe) HARARE – A faction within ZANU-PF is reportedly determined to keep President Emmerson Mnangagwa in power until 2030, even if it means going against his stated intentions and potentially violating the constitution. This comes amidst swirling rumours of a succession battle with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. ZANU-PF War Veterans League secretary, Douglas Mahiya, has publicly stated that veterans of the liberation struggle will lobby for Mnangagwa to reconsider his decision to step down after the expiry of his second term in 2028. Mahiya made these remarks during the launch of the War Veterans Welfare Fund in Mashonaland West yesterday, an initiative aimed at improving the welfare of former liberation fighters which is being spearheaded by presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara. In his address during the launch, Mahiya argued that Mnangagwa’s leadership is crucial for the country’s continued development and stability. “We, as war veterans, believe that President Mnangagwa’s vision and leadership are indispensable to Zimbabwe’s progress. We will engage with the President and persuade him to continue leading the nation beyond 2028,” he said. Mahiya’s utterances came just a day after Mnangagwa said he would adhere to the constitutionally-mandated two terms. This apparent defiance of the President’s stated intentions highlights the deep divisions within ZANU-PF regarding the succession issue. Sources within Mnangagwa’s camp claim that the President is legally bound to continue serving as the first secretary of the party and that no further succession will take place outside the resolutions made at last year’s conference in Bulawayo. “Comrade this is politics and we will stick to conference resolution number 1 which is an expression that the masses wanted President Mnangagwa to continue at the helm until or beyond 2030. We will stick to that resolution and anything outside that will be as good as tampering with our constitutional resolutions,” a defiant source and loyalist said. The source added, “We are not going to succumb to pressure from a small pressure group with its purported act to overturn the will of the people. We will use any means possible to force the President to adhere to the conference resolution which endorsed him as the sole candidate until and beyond 2030.” The source further stated that Mnangagwa’s withdrawal would be “the greatest betrayal to ZANU-PF structures and violation of our party constitution.” Meanwhile, when contacted by a news crew on the way forward in making sure that they will adhere to conference resolution number 1 versus recent pronouncement and clarity by Mnangagwa towards staying beyond 2030, the party’s Secretary-General, Obert Mpofu was evasive to answer but claimed that the party will follow what the President said. “Yes the resolution for him to stay beyond 2030 was made before, during and after our conference held in Bulawayo. My brother, let me tell you the truth, we will only listen to what the President has said. We cannot change or overturn what he said, we just follow,” Obert Mpofu said. The situation is further complicated by reports of a power struggle between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. Claims are that the two had a secret and well-planned succession agreement which would first enable Mnangagwa to lead and leave the baton to Chiwenga if he served his constitutional terms. However, facing pressure from war veterans and other circles backing Chiwenga to takeover, Mnangagwa summoned state and few selected privately-owned media editors to announce that he would not seek to serve beyond the maximum limit. ZANU-PF spokesman, Christopher Mutsvangwa (then) claimed that succession into the party’s helm is done through the ballot not the bullet system. Addressing the media during a press briefing then, Mutsvangwa said the party will only follow what the structures have said and nothing outside that will be entertained. A viral video has also surfaced where Mnangagwa loyalists (featuring War Veteran Douglas Mahiya, Presidential Advisor, Paul Tempter Tungwarara, among others) are vowing to persuade him to continue serving beyond 2030. Despite pressure from loyalists backing the most feared and powerful Army Commander, General (Retired) Chiwenga, Mnangagwa is caught in between conference resolution number 1 and pressure to pass the baton his deputy. The launch of the War Veterans Welfare Fund, which includes an initial allocation of US$150 000 from the War Veterans Fund to the province, is seen by some as a move to shore up support for Mnangagwa among this influential constituency. The fund is projected to grow to US$10 million by June 2025, with each province set to receive US$1 million. Tungwarara emphasised the importance of recognising the contribution of war veterans to the nation’s history and identity. “Together, let us forge a future where our war veterans are celebrated and their contributions are recognised as integral to our national identity,” he said. Veterans of the Liberation Struggle deputy minister Headman Moyo applauded the initiative, noting its potential to empower war veterans and their communities. “We are very happy about this Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme because it allows war veterans to undertake different income-generating projects and the surrounding community will also benefit,” he said. As part of the pilot project, eight solar-powered boreholes have been drilled at war veterans’ homes in Mashonaland West within 48 hours of the launch of the programme. ---- *President Mnangagwa swears in minister, deputy ministers and commissioners* (Zbc) President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sworn in a Minister of State, two Deputy Ministers, two commissioners and the Chief Magistrate at the State House in Harare this Wednesday. The President swore in Hon Itayi Ndudzo as Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Province, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Albert Mavunga and Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Honourable Caleb Makwiranzou. Vongai Palmer Guwuriro was sworn in as Chief Magistrate of the Judicial Services Commission, while Adelis Sibutha and Ozias Evans Muchaya Hove took oath of office as commissioners in the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission and the Zimbabwe Land Commission respectively. ....... *EU extends Zim restrictive measures, delists ZDI* (NewsDay) By GARY GERALD MTOMBENI | The EU imposed the restrictive measures on Harare in February 2011 following a surge in human rights violations, as well as violations of the freedom of opinion, freedom of association and freedom of peaceful assembly. HARARE, Feb 19 (NewsDay Live) - The European Union (EU) has extended its restrictive measures on Zimbabwe by another year citing continued violation of human rights, but delisted the country’s now largely dormant military hardware manufacturer - Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI). “The EU continues to closely follow developments in Zimbabwe, with a particular attention to the human rights situation, and recalls its readiness to adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly,” the bloc said in a statement Wednesday. The EU imposed the restrictive measures on Harare in February 2011 following a surge in human rights violations, as well as violations of the freedom of opinion, freedom of association and freedom of peaceful assembly. The sanctions included an arms embargo as well as travel and financial sanctions on targeted government officials and entities. The embargo has been regularly extended, with the Zanu PF-led government blaming it for the current economic squeeze. NewsDay Zimbabwe. ----- *Muchinguri Letter Over Attempt To Fire Blessed Geza* Dear Cde OCZ Muchinguri RE: Unreasonable Presser by Mary Mliswa. It is in my interest as a perty cadre to request your intervention to stop the presser as scheduled at Zanu Pf HeadQauters by the Provincial Chairman Cde Mary Mliswa. It is alleged that the presser is meant to denounce cde Gezi a central committee member of Mashonaland West Province. In my view Cde Gezi and his team spoke on their own behalf which demonstrate level of democracy in Zimbabwe and the right to freedom of speech and expression as enshrined in the constitution of the land. If we let that presser to be done are we not putting the name of the party in disrepute as well as destroying the image of the first secretary. National Headquaters should not be used to pursue provincial agendas which they can also solve or make decisions in their respective provinces. Denouncing Cde Geza’s statements as a Party are we also not going against fundamental human rights. Mashonaland West as province should deal with their issues in their province and also to note mobilisation of party structures or general people is a sole responsibility of commissariate department not the chairman. The President is clear on many and several times that vision 2030 should not be disturbed. Going for a presser as a party are we not distabilizing the political enviromment which in turn affects economic growth and non realisation of vision 2030. I hope my concern as a party cadre will be considered. Yours Comradely ....... *Health Ministry Reports Spike In Malaria And Diarrhoea Cases* (Pindula) The Ministry of Health and Childcare has released its Weekly Disease Report for the week ending 02 February 2025, providing updates on various health concerns across the country. Influenza/Common Cold: A total of 3,912 suspected cases of influenza/common cold were reported this week, with no deaths. Manicaland and Mashonaland East provinces recorded the highest number of cases, with 1,439 and 967 cases, respectively. The cumulative total stands at 13,471 suspected cases, with no reported deaths. Measles: Seven new suspected cases of measles were reported, with no suspected deaths. Harare Province reported three cases, Mashonaland Central two, and Mashonaland East and Mashonaland each reported one. The cumulative number of suspected measles cases is now 34, with no deaths. Common Diarrhoea: A total of 8,464 cases of common diarrhoea were reported, with no deaths. Of these, 3,358 cases were from children under 5 years old. The provinces with the highest number of cases were Mashonaland Central (1,178) and Mashonaland East (1,157). Cumulatively, there have been 35,265 cases and 17 deaths. Malaria: There were 2,009 reported cases of malaria this week, along with six deaths. The highest number of cases were reported in Manicaland (824) and Mashonaland West (527). The provinces also saw several deaths, including two in Mutare District, one in Chimanimani, Buhera, Rushinga, and Makonde Districts. The cumulative figures for malaria cases are 5,710 with 17 deaths, and the cumulative case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 0.3%. Latest Samsung A06 128GB, 4GB now available: $106 To order, WhatsApp: wa.me/263715068543 Cholera: This week, 24 suspected cases of cholera and one suspected death were reported. The majority of suspected cases (23) were from Mazowe District. Cumulative figures for cholera now stand at 107 suspected cases, with one suspected death, but no confirmed cases or deaths. Dysentery: A total of 545 dysentery cases were reported, with no deaths. Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland West provinces reported the highest numbers of cases, with 114 and 97, respectively. The cumulative total for dysentery cases is now 2,416, with one death. Typhoid: No suspected cases or deaths from typhoid were reported this week. The cumulative total for suspected typhoid cases remains at two, with no deaths, resulting in a cumulative CFR of 0%. ------ *Karoi man kills wife, headman and teen relative* (Herald) Police in Mashonaland West province have launched a manhunt for a suspected serial murderer who killed his wife, a headman who had gone to counsel the couple and a relative. The triple murder has shaken Mubaira Chani Village in Hurungwe under Chief Chundu where the suspect, Trymore Tore (37) killed his wife before dumping the body a few metres from the homestead. Tore, who was married to his wife for the past three years, had frequent misunderstandings with his wife and on the fateful day, the couple had an altercation which allegedly drew the attention of headman Nyikadzino. It is suspected that Tore held the headman hostage before killing him and a teenage relative Anet Nabwalo (17), who had allegedly gone to Tore’s homestead to watch a movie before meeting her fate. The community became suspicious after days passed without the two returning to their respective home. A relative went to the homestead and allegedly found Tore at home but he professed ignorance on the whereabouts of his wife and the other missing persons. The relative suggested to him that they should visit a prophet for insights into the whereabouts of the missing relatives. This did not go down well with Tore who allegedly grabbed the relative before attempting to rape her. She managed to escape before reporting the issue to the police. A search led to the discovery of Moleen Chabayanzara’s body about 40 metres away from the homestead while headman Nyikadzino, Kuwesi Masawu’s body was found in a disused latrine with the head severed from the torso. The teenager, Anet’s body was found buried in a shallow grave near a hut. Chief Chundu confirmed the incident and called for amicable ways of solving domestic disputes. “It is a very sad development where three lives have been lost. It must be noted that this man (Tore) had a known violent streak in the area,” said Chief Chundu. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the tragic incident adding that investigations were in progress. ..... *WestProp Holdings, Ken Sharpe win High Court gag order against Kukurigo* (Zimlive) Injunction prohibits ‘publishing, producing, or disseminating any content that is defamatory or derogatory’ HARARE – Property tycoon Kenneth Sharpe has obtained a High Court injunction against WhatsApp news platform Kukurigo to stop publication of “derogatory” and “defamatory” news stories and videos. The court order came just days after the arrest of a man for allegedly extorting Sharpe, and a police announcement that Kukurigo publisher Edmund Kudzayi is wanted for the same charges. Remitly Inside Article Mobile Only Banner – 468 by 390 pixels Sharpe through his company WestProp and Kudzayi representing Kukurigo entered into a business arrangement whose terms were not disclosed in court, but they had a falling out. In March last year, Sharpe and Kudzayi signed a Mutual Settlement Agreement for Work Done and the latter was subsequently paid US$24,344. The agreement in part obligated Kudzayi not to make statements that could be construed as critical or derogatory towards WestProp or its representatives, according to Sharpe’s lawyers. But in January this year, Kudzayi is accused of publishing through Kukurigo a video “which damaged our client’s reputation by creating a narrative that questions their integrity and financial stability.” To stop further publications, Sharpe approached the High Court last week on an urgent basis. An unopposed order was granted by Justice Regis Dembure. The order says Kukurigo, Kudzayi “and all persons acting on their behalf be and are hereby interdicted and prohibited from publishing, producing, or disseminating any content that is defamatory or derogatory towards the applicants” WestProp Holdings and Sharpe. Kudzayi accuses Sharpe of criminalising a commercial dispute following the arrest of his business associate Nominate Chazwe for extortion and has vowed to fight the charges. ------- *ZIFA appoint members to 15 committees set to help in football development and planning* (Nehanda Radio) HARARE – The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has appointed members to 15 committees tasked with supporting football development and planning across various areas within the association. The list of appointees released on Monday, includes a blend of experienced and young football administrators. ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi will head finance while his deputies Kenny Ndebele and Loveness Mukura will head AFCON Committee and Women’s football development committee respectively. Here is the list of the appointees: ORGANISING COMMITTEE FOR ZIFA COMPETITIONS * Thomas Marambanyika (Chairperson) * Nabioth Magwizi (Vice Chair) * Colonel Nthokoziso Moyo * Nokutaba Manungo * Rodwell Thabe MARKETING & MEDIA COMMITTEE * Kudzai Kadzombe (Chairperson) * Ronald Moyo (Vice Chairperson) * Chido Chizondo * Trevor Jakachira * Shylet F. Chikonyora TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (TDC) * Tafadzwa Benza (Chairperson) * Nhlanhla Dube (Vice Chairperson) * Dr. S. Sibanda * Dickson Choto * Mrs. Muzvidziwa REFEREES COMMITTEE * Faith Mloyi (Chairperson) * Munyaradzi Majoni (Vice ) * Jacob Kuuya * Rusina Kuda Chiramba * Makonese Masakadza COMMITTEE FOR WOMEN FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT * Loveness Mukura (Chairperson) * ZPSL representative (Vice ) * Lewis Muzhara * James Shamuyarira Mupfudza * Michelle Kwaramba LEGAL & PLAYER STATUS COMMITTEE * Alice Zeure (Chairperson) * Keith Kachambwa (Vice ) * Hlabangana Ntandose * Nyasha Munyuru * Tafadzwa Mutowa MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS COMMITTEE * Davison Muchena (Chairman) * Rumbidzai Muyambuki (Vice ) * Edward Chekure * Francis Ntuta * Phithias Shoko FINANCE COMMITTEE * Nqobile Magwizi (Provisional Chairman) * TBA Institutional Representative (Vice ) * Kuziwa Nyabeze * Lloyd Munhanga * Fredson Moyo FIRST INSTANCE BODY (FIB) * Sharrif Mussa (Chairperson) * Xolisani Gwesela (Vice ) * Francis Mabika * Oswell Chakwanda * Andrew Mugandiwa CLUB LICENSING APPEALS * Nomakhosi Sandi (Chairperson) * Nyaradzo Maposa (Vice Chair) * Leeroy Mudziwepasi * Advocate Gift Madzoka * Advocate Tawona Sibanda AD HOC COMMITTEES COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE * Hope Chizuzu (Chairperson) * Elias Mambo (Vice Chairperson) * Major Tikiwa * Martin Matamisa * Christine Midzi HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE * Oscah Nduwure (Chairperson) * Mavis Gumbo (Vice Chair) * Moses Maunganidze * Martin Kweza * Takunda Timbe PROJECTS & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE * Brighton Ushendibaba (Chairperson) * Benjamin Chindima (Vice Chairperson) * Nkosilathi Ncube * Weston Jemwa * Cassina Mwangara AD HOC AFCON COMMITTEE * Kennedy Ndebele (Chairperson) * Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa (Vice Chair) * Nomsa Moyo * Desmond Ali * Eddie Chivero * Joel Gombera STRATEGIC PLANNING & RESTRUCTURING * Patience Dube (Chairperson) * Hastings Makunda (Vice Chair) * Wellington Mupandare * Gilbert Saika * Patrick Hill ------- *Mnangagwa adviser and boreholes tsar Tungwarara accused of US$350k fraud* (Zimlive) ‘I opened a fraud case against him at the CID in Harare but the docket disappeared’ President Emmerson Mnangagwa flanked by Tempter Paul Tungwarara (left) and war veterans association secretary Douglas Mahiya at his office on February 7, 2029 HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s newly appointed investment adviser to the United Arab Emirates has been accused of conning a man of over US$300,000. Jospher Chibisa claims Tempter Paul Tungwarara, who is currently criss-crossing the country championing a scheme to drill boreholes and build houses for war veterans, borrowed the money in 2019 claiming he had construction tenders at State House through his company, Paulos Construction, and required capital. “He was introduced to me by my wife. Initially I loaned him smaller amounts and he paid back without a problem, and now it appears that was his way to gain my trust,” Chibisa told ZimLive on Tuesday. “Then sometime in 2019 he requested $350,000 and I gave him. He only paid back $64,500 and it has been a struggle ever since to get him to pay.” Chibisa says Tungwarara has acknowledged the debt and proposed payment timelines which he never met. “I once opened a fraud case against him at the Commercial Crimes Division of the Criminal Investigations Department in Harare but nothing worked, the docket disappeared. My own conclusion is that no-one wants to be involved once they get to know that it involves Tungwarara as he has resorted to using the first family to indemnify himself,” Chibisa said. When Tungwarara was appointed an adviser by Mnangagwa last November, Chibisa says he wrote a letter to State House seeking a meeting with the president. He wanted to tell Mnangagwa that Tungwarara was now using his name to avoid paying his liabilities. “I got two calls from the president’s office, they wanted to clarify a couple of things but the meeting never took place. I also wrote to the first lady (Auxillia Mnangagwa) but got no response,” Chibisa said. “The president should advise Tungwarara to pay back this small amount to avoid tarnishing his image.” While Tungwarara’s November appointment as an investment adviser was specific to the UAE, he is now spending most of his time in Zimbabwe after his company Prevail Group International was contracted to drill thousands of solar boreholes countrywide under an opaquely financed “presidential borehole scheme.” The scheme has a target to drill 35,000 boreholes. More recently, Tungwarara has joined hands with Zanu PF-aligned war veterans in another project called “Presidential War Veterans Borehole Scheme” which has set an ambitious target of drilling a borehole at the home of every war veteran. There are over 30,000 war veterans. The war veterans scheme, whose financing also remains shrouded in mystery, appears to have been rushed through to contain rising discontent among veterans of the 1970s independence war after a breakaway group called for Mnangagwa’s immediate resignation. Tungwarara had not answered questions left for him and his phone rang unanswered. ..... *South African Government Cracks Down on Illegal Employment: Employers Fined for Hiring Foreign Workers Without Permits* (iharare) South African Government Cracks Down on Illegal Employment: Employers Fined for Hiring Foreign Workers Without Permits The South African government has fined employers for hiring foreign workers without valid permits in a nationwide crackdown on illegal employment. DEL Imposes Fines on Employers Violating Work Permit Regulations According to IOL, the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) has imposed fines totaling R680,000 on 68 employers found guilty of hiring foreign nationals without valid work permits. This action, revealed in a parliamentary reply by Minister Nomakhosazana Meth, is part of ongoing efforts to enforce immigration and labour laws. Joint Inspections Lead to Arrests During the latest blitz, 68 employers and 322 foreign nationals were found violating regulations across all nine provinces. Each employer was fined R10,000, amounting to a total of R680,000, while the undocumented employees were taken for further immigration processing. According to Meth, the department collaborated with the Department of Home Affairs and law enforcement agencies to conduct blitz inspections. The inspections reportedly aimed to ensure compliance with labour laws while verifying the validity of visas and work permits. “In the event of non-compliance with immigration laws, the Department of Home Affairs arrests the non-compliant employers and employees,” Meth stated. Also Read: New South Africa Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber Orders Buses To Deport Illegal Immigrants Eastern Cape Tops List of Violators The Eastern Cape recorded the highest number of violations, with 34 employers fined a collective R340,000. Mpumalanga followed with 15 cases, while Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape had eight, five, and two cases, respectively. Among the 322 undocumented foreign workers arrested, Limpopo had the highest number at 163, followed by the Western Cape with 43. Gauteng and the Eastern Cape recorded 34 each, while Mpumalanga had 30. ....