Saturday 01 March 2025 *NEWS UPDATES* *THE HEADLINES* *There should never be anything criminal about criticising the president…and why is the Zimbabwe government at war with its own citizens? Mbofana* *’Mr President, you have failed, step down’- war veterans reiterate calls for Mnangagwa’s exit* *War Vets In Fierce Anti-Mnangagwa Push: ‘We will lead ED onslaught’* *This is our last press conference, in a week or 2 the pressure will be on: War vets issue ultimatum to President Mnangagwa, demand his immediate resignation* *AMH owner Trevor Ncube demands a day in court as his journalist is denied bail* *’l am stronger,’ says incarcerated AMH journalist Blessed Mhlanga* *Mixed messaging and confusion over Mnangagwa term extension fuel speculation* *Controversial Harare’s Geo-Pomona waste-to-energy deal sparks corruption fears, residents allege it’s a feeding trough* *Racial discrimination rocks Peterhouse Boys School; black teachers and students feel the heat* *Gender Commission probes sexual harassment in higher and tertiary institutions* *NEC CEO arrested for contempt of court* *No to Fast Track Tolls and Free Parking for MPs, Serve the people first* *Trump and Zelensky in extraordinary and unprecedented Oval Office shouting match* *Microsoft shuts down Skype, Internet’s call pioneer after it fails to evolve* FOLLOW THIS CHANNEL https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaifFH90QealiZ3Gv21T *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*There should never be anything criminal about criticising the president…and why is the Zimbabwe government at war with its own citizens? Mbofana*_ The recent arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga following his interview with war veteran and ZANU-PF Central Committee member Blessed Geza is yet another glaring example of Zimbabwe’s assault on free speech. Geza’s supposed crime? Calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation on the grounds that he has failed to deliver on his promises to uplift ordinary citizens and fight high-level corruption. In so doing, Geza is now wanted by the police for supposedly “insulting the president and undermining his authority”. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. This is the same fate that has befallen many Zimbabweans before him—charged under vague and repressive laws that criminalize criticism of the president, often framed as “insulting the president” or “undermining his authority.” But in a truly democratic society, is there anything illegal or even improper about calling for the resignation of a failing leader? Why does Zimbabwe insist on treating such statements as crimes? And why should its citizens reject this blatant erosion of their fundamental rights? Demanding the resignation of a president is neither treasonous nor criminal. It is, in fact, a fundamental democratic right. In countries that uphold genuine democracy, citizens and political figures regularly call for the resignation of leaders without any fear of arrest or persecution. In the United States, for example, presidents face constant scrutiny and public calls for them to step down. During Donald Trump’s first stint as president, millions of Americans—including high-profile politicians and activists—repeatedly called for his resignation, accusing him of mishandling issues such as racial justice and the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, in France, citizens have staged mass protests demanding the resignation of President Emmanuel Macron over controversial policies, economic hardship, and accusations of failing to represent the interests of ordinary citizens. Despite these intense criticisms, neither Trump nor Macron had their critics arrested or charged with criminal offenses for expressing their views. So why does Zimbabwe insist on treating criticism of its leader as a crime? The answer lies in the nature of authoritarian regimes. Unlike democratic governments that accept dissent as a sign of political maturity, oppressive states view it as a threat to their grip on power. By criminalizing statements against the president, the Zimbabwean government is not protecting the dignity of its leader but rather shielding itself from accountability. It is not about respect or decorum—it is about control. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. These laws are designed to silence opposition, suppress public discontent, and create a climate of fear where citizens dare not question those in power, no matter how badly they perform. But beyond the political motives, there is a fundamental legal issue: criminalizing criticism of the president is unconstitutional. The Zimbabwean Constitution, adopted in 2013, explicitly guarantees freedom of expression under Section 61, which states that every person has the right to “freedom of expression, which includes freedom to seek, receive, and communicate ideas and other information.” Furthermore, Section 67 guarantees every Zimbabwean the right to participate in political processes, including engaging in peaceful political activity. Clearly, calling for the resignation of a leader who is perceived to have failed is well within these constitutional rights. Zimbabwean courts have already ruled against such oppressive laws in the past. In 2013, the Constitutional Court struck down a section of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act that criminalized “undermining the authority of the president,” ruling that it was inconsistent with free speech protections. Similarly, in 2016, the court ruled in Dhewa Mavhunga v The State that such laws were too vague and prone to abuse. Yet, despite these rulings, the government continues to use these provisions selectively to silence critics, often knowing that the charges will not hold up in court but using the legal process itself as a tool of intimidation. The Zimbabwean government’s stance is made even more absurd by its attempt to justify these laws using arguments rooted in culture and religion. Some have argued that in African culture, respect for authority is paramount and that criticizing a leader is akin to disrespecting a parent. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. But leadership in a democratic state is not the same as familial hierarchy. A president is not a father, and the people are not his children. He is an elected public servant, accountable to the citizens who put him in office. Respect is not automatic—it is earned. If a leader fails to serve the people, they have every right to express their dissatisfaction, including demanding his resignation. The notion that citizens must remain silent out of cultural deference is nothing more than a manipulative tactic to stifle dissent. Similarly, some have attempted to frame criticism of the president as a violation of religious principles, arguing that leaders are ordained by God and should not be questioned. But this is a dangerous misinterpretation of faith. Religion has historically been used by oppressive regimes to justify all manner of injustices, from colonialism to slavery. If anything, religious principles emphasize justice, truth, and righteousness—values that demand that corrupt and ineffective leadership be challenged, not blindly obeyed. Zimbabweans should reject the cynical use of culture and religion as tools of political oppression. The government’s crackdown on free speech is not new. Over the years, many Zimbabweans have been arrested for merely expressing their views about the president. In 2020, opposition politician Jacob Ngarivhume was arrested for calling for protests against corruption and poor governance. In 2019, activist Prosper Tiringindi was jailed for labeling Mnangagwa a “useless president.” Even ordinary citizens have not been spared—countless Zimbabweans have faced arrest and intimidation for expressing opinions that, in any democratic society, would be seen as legitimate political discourse. This systematic repression has created an environment where citizens live in fear of expressing their thoughts, knowing that even the mildest criticism of the government could result in imprisonment. Criminalizing criticism of the president not only violates democratic principles but also reveals a deep insecurity within the ruling elite. Strong leaders do not need laws to protect them from criticism—effective leadership earns respect through performance, not repression. If Mnangagwa’s government were truly confident in its policies and achievements, it would have no need to arrest its critics. The fact that it resorts to heavy-handed censorship only confirms its failure to address the grievances of its people. A government that is genuinely working for the people should welcome scrutiny, not fear it. Zimbabweans must resist and reject the normalization of these unjust laws. A president is not above scrutiny. If a leader fails, the people have every right to say so—loudly, publicly, and without fear of persecution. Calling for a president’s resignation is not a crime. It is an act of democracy. And any government that tries to convince its people otherwise has no interest in serving them—it only seeks to control them. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Tendai Ruben Mbofana is a social justice advocate and writer. Please feel free to WhatsApp or Call: +263715667700 _*’Mr President, you have failed, step down’- war veterans reiterate calls for Mnangagwa’s exit*_ VETERANS of the country’s liberation struggle, who are backing their fellow bush war combatant, Blessed Runesu Geza, now wanted by police on a litany of charges, have once again called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down immediately, accusing him of failure. This follows recent demands by Geza, a vocal critic of Mnangagwa and Zanu PF Central Committee member, who insisted that the President must resign due to his poor leadership. Geza is currently in hiding after police launched a manhunt for him over four criminal charges, including undermining the authority of the President and inciting public violence. Speaking at a press conference Friday, Ethan Mathibela, chairman of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), stated that Mnangagwa has failed to address widespread corruption, which has led to the country’s economic crisis, among other issues. “The nation at large, which is suffering due to this crisis, has told us they will stand with us war veterans every step of the way. They have made it clear that we must lead the charge in ensuring that the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe steps down immediately, and we are in agreement,” said Mathibela. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “We have countless reasons to justify this. Among them, he has failed to tackle corruption, which has severely impacted ordinary citizens and crippled our economy. “He has also failed to curb tribalism; he could be the architect of it. These are some of the reasons why people who once respected this government have now reached a decision, Mr. President, you have failed, and therefore, you must step down! “We put you in power, and we can remove you. It’s very straightforward. I am speaking on behalf of the majority of citizens who have been pressuring us for far too long,” Mathibela said. The war veterans have vowed to embark on massive protests to force Mnangagwa’s resignation. This comes at a time when there are two distinct factions in the ruling Zanu PF party with one loyal to Mnangagwa advocating for the suspension of the 2028 elections to allow him to remain in power until 2030 and the other, believed to be aligned to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, pushing for adherence to the constitutional term limits. _*War Vets In Fierce Anti-Mnangagwa Push: ‘We will lead ED onslaught’*_ A faction of the war veterans says it will 'lead the onslaught' against President Emmerson Mnangagwa, ratcheting up the tension in the ruling Zanu PF party. "Maybe our presser today is the last. We want to address the elephant in the room as quickly as posssible. It may be in a week or two, the pressure will be on," the leader of a faction of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veteran Association faction, Andrease Mathibela told a Press conference in Harare on Friday. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. This development comes hot on the heels of outspoken war veteran and Zanu PF central committee member Blessed “Bombshell” Geza’s condemnation of Mnangagwa’s leadership, where he declared that the Zanu PF leader was “not fit to run this country”. Matyhibela said the association had consulted with citizens of Zimbabwe who had agreed that Mnangagwa ought to step down. He also said the association was behind Geza, who it had sent at the front and described him as “our rabble-rouser”. Mnangagwa is facing growing discontent among Zimbabweans frustrated with the country’s economic woes. Mathibela accused Mnangagwa of failing to tame corruption which was bleeding the economy, resulting in poverty among ordinary people. The war veteran leader gave Mnangagwa a two-week ultimatum, threatening that the people would go into the streets in protest against poor governance. “So obviously, the government is not serious about addressing the crisis (that) it has created itself,” Mathibela said. “So, when we look, as citizens of this country, when we look at any crisis, we ask: What is the root cause? Then we deal with the root cause. “I am here, on behalf of all veterans and members of the public, ordinary people. We were quiet, while all these other noise makers were trying to be relevant. Guess what? We were busy consulting.” Added Mathibela: “Just like what we did during the liberation struggle. We were working with the masses. We were working with the chiefs. We were working with the mass media, spirit mediums, I would say. And they have told us, that all veterans, you put your government there, sort it out.” “That is the challenge they have given us. They say you put this government, you sort it out. And very true, we will definitely sort it out. I am happy that the nation, at large, which is the suffocating victims of this crisis, has said ‘We will go with you veterans, every step of the way’. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “They have told us, in no uncertain circumstances, that this time around, we must lead the onslaught, where the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe must step down immediately. “And we are in agreement. We have reasons which we can explain throughout the night, until the following morning.” Mathibela said Mnangagwa and his government are not comfortable with the discontent among war veterans, hence the attempt to silence them with trinkets. He said war veterans aligned to his faction would boycott the planned interface with Mnangagwa. “Why suddenly now?” Mathibela asked. “People are panicking, offering war veterans US$1,5 million and the Tungwarara houses. “We call those small houses Tungwararas because it’s a mockery. “Why us alone? What about the people who put you into power?” Newsday _*This is our last press conference, in a week or 2 the pressure will be on: War vets issue ultimatum to President Mnangagwa, demand his immediate resignation*_ A faction within the war veterans’ community has dramatically escalated tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party, declaring their intention to “lead the onslaught” against President Emmerson Mnangagwa and demanding his immediate resignation. The announcement was made at a press conference in Harare on Friday by Andrease Mathibela, the leader of a faction of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veteran Association. Mathibela stated that the association had consulted with Zimbabwean citizens, who overwhelmingly agreed that Mnangagwa should step down from his position. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “Maybe our presser today is the last. We want to address the elephant in the room as quickly as possible. It may be in a week or two, the pressure will be on,” Mathibela told reporters, signalling a looming confrontation with the President. This development follows closely on the heels of outspoken war veteran and Zanu PF central committee member Blessed “Bombshell” Geza’s public condemnation of Mnangagwa’s leadership, in which he asserted that the Zanu PF leader was “not fit to run this country”. Mathibela made it clear that his association stands firmly behind Geza, whom they described as “our rabble-rouser,” and had strategically positioned him at the forefront of their campaign. Mnangagwa is currently facing growing discontent among Zimbabweans, who are increasingly frustrated by the country’s persistent economic challenges. Mathibela accused Mnangagwa of failing to curb rampant corruption, which he said was bleeding the economy and plunging ordinary citizens into poverty. The war veteran leader issued a two-week ultimatum to Mnangagwa, warning that if the President failed to address the nation’s grievances, the people would take to the streets in protest against poor governance. “So obviously, the government is not serious about addressing the crisis (that) it has created itself,” Mathibela said. “So, when we look, as citizens of this country, when we look at any crisis, we ask: What is the root cause? Then we deal with the root cause.” Mathibela emphasised that the war veterans were acting on the mandate given to them by the Zimbabwean people. “I am here, on behalf of all veterans and members of the public, ordinary people. We were quiet, while all these other noise makers were trying to be relevant. Guess what? We were busy consulting,” he stated. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “Just like what we did during the liberation struggle. We were working with the masses. We were working with the chiefs. We were working with the mass media, spirit mediums, I would say. And they have told us, that all veterans, you put your government there, sort it out.” “That is the challenge they have given us. They say you put this government, you sort it out. And very true, we will definitely sort it out. I am happy that the nation, at large, which is the suffocating victims of this crisis, has said ‘We will go with you veterans, every step of the way’.” “They have told us, in no uncertain circumstances, that this time around, we must lead the onslaught, where the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe must step down immediately. And we are in agreement. We have reasons which we can explain throughout the night, until the following morning.” Mathibela further alleged that Mnangagwa and his government were unnerved by the growing dissent among war veterans and were attempting to appease them with empty promises and material inducements. He announced that war veterans aligned with his faction would boycott the planned interface with Mnangagwa, dismissing it as a desperate attempt to quell their rebellion. “Why suddenly now?” Mathibela asked. “People are panicking, offering war veterans US$1,5 million and the Tungwarara houses. We call those small houses Tungwararas because it’s a mockery. Why us alone? What about the people who put you into power?” The escalating conflict between this faction of war veterans and President Mnangagwa presents a significant challenge to the stability of Zanu PF and the country as a whole. With the war veterans vowing to “lead the onslaught” and the threat of mass protests looming, Zimbabwe faces a period of heightened political uncertainty. _*AMH owner Trevor Ncube demands a day in court as his journalist is denied bail*_ ALPHA Media Holdings (AMH) publisher, Trevor Ncube has challenged the police to arrest him arguing that his reporter, Blessed Mhlanga who is currently languishing in jail after he was denied bail by a Harare magistrate is not a publisher. Ncube, who is President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s former advisor, was responding to questions by journalists at Harare Magistrates Court where he had come in This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.solidarity with Mhlanga. Mhlanga was arrested Monday after handing himself over to the police. He is accused of publishing messages which incite violence following his interviews with outspoken war veteran, Blessed Runesu Geza, who demanded that President Mnangagwa should step down. Ncube said Mhlanga is not the owner of AMH television channel, Heart and Soul as such deserved freedom. “Blessed is not AMH. He’s just a journalist practicing his profession, which is constitutionally protected, just like you guys are doing here, broadcasting to the public at home. “You can’t be accused of inciting the public for broadcasting what I’m saying right now. “I am the one who should be brought before the courts, not the journalists who transmit the information. So, I’m disappointed in that regard, but this is the reality that we are in right now,” Ncube said. The media entrepreneur said he was disappointed that Mhlanga was denied bail, pointing to selective application of the law and also accused the court of failing to appreciate that there should be freedom of the press. He also accused Mnangagwa of controlling the judiciary, noting that the President literally owns the courts. “I think fundamentally important is the fact that there wasn’t any indication that the court realises that you’re dealing with freedom of expression and press freedom, and that Blessed did not say any of the stuff that he is alleged to have said. “Unfortunately, President Mnangagwa owns the courts. They have said they own the military; they own the police, they will do as they please. We will continue; I mean, I’m sure the lawyers will do what is right, but what we saw happening today is not fair; It is not justice, and our Constitution does not support what has just taken place here,” Ncube said. Mhlanga was denied bail by Harare Magistrate Farai Gwitima, who ruled that he was likely to interfere with witnesses who are his subordinates. The magistrate also said his release will jeopardise peace in Zimbabwe, among other reasons. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. His lawyer Chris Mhike said he will be filing an appeal at the High Court as soon as possible. Mhlanga will be back in court March 14 for routine remand. _*’l am stronger,’ says incarcerated AMH journalist Blessed Mhlanga*_ ALPHA Media Holdings (AMH) journalist, Blessed Mhlanga, who is currently in remand prison awaiting trial in a case he is accused of transmitting information inciting violence has said his incarceration has made him stronger. His arrest Monday followed his recent interviews with his namesake, Blessed Runesu Geza, a firebrand war veteran currently challenging Mnangagwa’s presidency. Geza is in hiding. In a handwritten statement penned from his prison cell, Mhlanga who heads AMH’s television channel, Heart and Soul, said he will take the lead in fighting for freedom of expression in Zimbabwe. This Friday, he was denied bail by a Harare magistrate, who ruled that he was likely to interfere with investigations and reoffend. Below is his full statement: Over the last few days, I have learnt my lesson. I have learnt that freedom is free. It comes at a cost and sometimes a painful one. I have learnt that free speech, free talk is not free and, therefore, we must never stop at anything to achieve it. It must be achieved in our generation, not the next. It is clear to me that without acting we won’t achieve anything so act we must. I will take the lead; therefore, I have instructed my lawyers to take action. I have learnt that justice is a myth but just a tool used by those in power to entrench self. At law school Munyaradzi Gwisai told me that you can never understand law fully unless you understand its origins. I fully agree, save to add that you will never fully understand it until it’s applied to you unjustly and with impunity by the social elites. There is a mile of difference between writing about injustice and experiencing it. My friends and I now have the benefit of it both. L Madhuku says law is law coz its law. Just or unjust. My experience teaches me that an unjust law is no law. Dear friends, prison is meant to break you. It is meant to change you. I have learnt quite to the contrary. Prison makes you more resolute. I am stronger and I identify more with you ever than before. They say when you are arrested you are alone. That’s not true. I was never alone; your voices were with me. I stood proud in the dark hours, my wife, my family were with me. I thank you. To those behind my persecution, including prosecution aiding and abetting injustice, I wish to say the sun will set. It won’t last forever. I am and I remain Dhara B. _*Mixed messaging and confusion over Mnangagwa term extension fuel speculation*_ Over the past week, President Emmerson Mnangagwa gave probably his most emphatic response to whether he would like to extend his term beyond 2028, reiterating that he would leave office in the next three years. Mnangagwa has previously said he is a “constitutionalist” and will abide by the terms of the constitution. His second and last term is due to expire in 2028, but there are some senior people within the government and the governing party who want the president to stay beyond his constitutional term and maybe serve up to 20230. The president met with a group of editors last week, where he told them in no uncertain terms that he was a constitutionalist and did not wish to extend the constitution nor go beyond his term limit. By saying he is a constitutionalist, Mnangagwa implies that he does not envisage a situation where the constitution is amended for his benefit. Ironically, a day before his meeting with editors, Information minister Jenfan Muswere told the media that there was consensus in Zanu PF and the party’s top leadership was “unanimously supporting President Mnangagwa’s continued leadership up to 2030”. “There is nothing unconstitutional about amending the constitution,” Muswere continued. Now, excuse me for being confused. Mnangagwa says he is a constitutionalist who will not seek to extend his term beyond 2028, yet one of his lieutenants says they are “driving (sic) the boat” towards 2030. This is quite a striking contradiction, considering that Mnangagwa has previously said he did not want to extend his term. The president first publicly declined the offer to extend his term at the Zanu PF national conference in Bulawayo last year, despite the party’s resolution to do so. However, in January Mnangagwa hosted a number of legislators who once again asked the president to extend his term beyond 2028. Sengezo Tshabangu, who installed himself as the leader of the opposition was quite brazen, declaring that if their “presence [Precabe Farm] improves your stay in power and makes the people of Zimbabwe happy, then let it be”. Quite a jarring statement from a person who claims to head the opposition, but that is a story for another day. This was an opportunity to swat away Tshabangu’s overzealousness. It went begging. There have been so many statements from the likes of Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and his counterpart at the ICT ministry Tatenda Mavetera all on extending Mnagagwa’s term. The usual retort is that there is freedom of expression in the country and people are allowed to say what they want. But therein lies the problem, some of the high profile people backing Mnangagwa are ministers. If the president says he is a constitutionalist, it infers that the ministers that are pushing for a term extension are not constitutionalists. This begs the question, why does the president continue to associate with people that are calling for an amendment that is not in keeping with constitutionalism. As the custodian of the constitution, there is no room for people who seek to mutilate the constitution in the vicinity of the president. Muswere said there was “no noise in the cockpit” and there was “unity [and] singleness of purpose” within the leadership. If that is the case, then why are the president’s lieutenants singing from a different hymn book when it comes to the term extension and the constitutional amendment that should go with it? On his part, Mnangagwa said he will tell those that are trying to persuade him to stay on that he will not continue because he wants to remain a constitutionalist. But so far, this approach has not worked because some of his ministers have only become louder since the December conference, while others have danced harder since then in an effort to cajole the president into staying longer. I am sure I am not the only one confused by this. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. At a time when we need a uniform message from the powers that be, we are getting mixed and contradictory messages and this is not helpful at all. There have been efforts by the media to distil this issue and clear the confusion, but instead, we have seen unhelpful threats flying from George Charamba, a senior official in the president’s office. I know the temptation is to say that the president has spoken and his word is final. Fine and dandy, so in that case, the ministers and the supporters that have been pushing for the term extension should also respect the finality of the president’s word and not wear us down with their unending slogans. The contradictory messages are only going to encourage further speculations and fuel doubts about the president’s term extension. Charamba and his colleagues in the Office of the President should be pushing for uniformity of messaging, not this situation where the president says one thing and his trusted lieutenants say another. I believe too much time has already been spent, and needlessly too, on the 2030 agenda. This time could have been used for more productive and pressing issues that face our country at the moment. Now that the president has spoken, I pray that there is finality to this matter. Zanu PF supporters and ministers who continue advocating for the term extension should be openly chastised as they are the antithesis of constitutionalism as so eloquently addressed by the president. Newsday _*Controversial Harare’s Geo-Pomona waste-to-energy deal sparks corruption fears, residents allege it’s a feeding trough*_ IMPOSING deals from private companies on City of Harare (CoH) without following proper procedures and consultation creates a breeding ground for corruption, residents have said. These are the sentiments of the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA), who are at loggerheads with council and the Ministry of Local Government over the approval of Geo Pomona to carry out waste management in the capital. Speaking at a recent meeting with Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume at Town House, CHRA director Reuben Akili said that the failure to consult and the passing of council resolutions on private partnerships creates channels for corruption. “When you read the addendum for the Pomona project, it also speaks to the issues of the local authority transferring equipment and moving workers to Geo Pomona, which is likely an agreement that was not discussed. “We need to look at the root causes of this corruption. This is very important because when you look at these committees, they play an oversight role. “When issues are discussed in a chamber like this, decisions are made at that level. But when decisions do not originate from there, we create room for corruption. We create room for the bleeding of council resources,” said Akili. Geo Pomona was established in 2022 after a Dutch waste management firm, Geogenix BV, secured a US$350 million waste-to-energy deal with the city. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Geo Pomona’s operations with Harare have been a source of contention among residents amid new information that the firm’s local focal person, Delish Nguwaya, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son, have 50-50 percent shares in the company. Initially, Town House opposed granting permission for Geo Pomona to take over its dumping sites but has since changed its stance, agreeing to work together to clear the dump sites. Geo Pomona Waste Management will collect 650 tonnes of refuse daily at a rate of US$40 per tonne. Despite objections from residents, Geo Pomona’s projects have been dubbed a model to emulate in other cities by the government. Mafume, once a vocal critic of Geo Pomona, told residents that private partnerships such as this one will transform the CoH. “Let us be clear, there are certain things that can be done better if we work with the private sector. I do understand that initially, the dump site was an issue of contention, even for me, but if you go there now, the place is clean. “The place has no smell. The place has been effectively managed. If you remember, we, as the residents or as the city council at that time, said we would not pay, and the payment was done from the central fiscus. They have sorted the place out, and the residents did not have to pay. “That is a model that seems to work. We might have issues with it, but those are issues that we can address,” said Mafume. _*Racial discrimination rocks Peterhouse Boys School; black teachers and students feel the heat*_ PRESTIGIOUS Anglican-run institution, Peterhouse Boys School (PHB) has once again torched a storm on the back of rampant allegations of victimisation of black teachers and learners in favour of the whites. In 2020, the private school made headlines for similar allegations following an outcry by black teachers and students, who experienced segregation bordered on racial grounds. Recently, some disgruntled staff members at the institution anonymously told NewZimbabwe.com that all was not well at one of the country’s elite schools after recently appointed Head of Studies at the school was tasked to cleanse black teachers by levelling trumped up charges. “A number of black teachers are currently undergoing hearings while some have been dismissed and replaced by white teachers on flimsy charges. Imagine the institution is recruiting teachers from as far as Australia despite vast local talent available. “It appears that the school has an unwritten strategy to attract more white students. They want to follow the trend at other schools with more white by the tactic of eliminating black teachers who are now seen as a stumbling block to attract such a clientele,” one insider alleged. Another insider alleged that teaching conditions are tougher for black teachers, who are often loaded with more work but are given lesser periods to teach their subjects in a development suspected to be aimed at setting up to fail the students and subsequently justify dismissals. On the other hand, white staffers often enjoy lighter loads and more teaching periods for their subjects to justify their efficiency in results outcomes. At the core of the problems bedeviling the revered institution is also the issue of dismal Ordinary and Advanced Level performance at Peterhouse Boys in the 2024 sitting after allegedly scoring a 77.6% as compared to 96% plus for the Peterhouse Girls School. The insiders contend that all is well at the girls’ division because there are more white teachers and students compared to the boys’ division, where there are more blacks prompting suspicion that the need to get rid of blacks is causing the mayhem. Black teachers are alleged to be earning a gross salary of less than US$1,500 raising suspicions that the white teachers coming from as far as Australia and the UK could be earning much higher. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “The school’s top management has been very economical with information on the actual pass rates at Porterhouse Boys School. So far, it appears that three different sets of pass rates were shared with parents, the teachers and school administration. “I hear the PHB parents sent a letter of complaint over the dismal performance and the rector sent out an email apologising and confirming the bad performance,” another insider alleged. Some of the disgruntled management members now suspect that the poor performance could be influenced by the racial bias in the employment pattern, which is favouring the white teachers even when they are not so competent. Contacted for comment and challenged to share his side of the story on the cocktail of allegations, Peterhouse Group of Schools Rector, Jon Trafford said the institution upholds the highest standards of transparency as he dismissed the concerns. “The Peterhouse Group is not in the habit of disclosing information which may impinge on the privacy of its staff. There are very clear policies within the school relating to the management of staff welfare and well-being. “On examination results, the school has always been entirely transparent with its results and the details of these have been circulated to parents. There should be no, at all three levels of public examination, confusion with respect to our 2024 results,” Trafford said. He noted that any suggestion there is a relationship between fees and examinations results would be tenuous and lacks insight into the determinants of academic success within schools. “We value feedback but, equally, understand that not all the information, in the public domain, may represent the facts on the ground within the school,” added Trafford. _*Gender Commission probes sexual harassment in higher and tertiary institutions*_ The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) says it is launching an investigation on sexual harassment in higher and tertiary institutions in the country. According to a notice in the Government Gazette issued Friday, ZGC chairperson Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe said: “It is hereby notified that, in terms of section 5 of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission Act [Chapter 10:31], the Zimbabwe Gender Commission intends to investigate complaints of sexual harassment in institutions of higher learning in Zimbabwe. “Further to the above notice, an invitation is hereby given to any victims or witnesses to any acts of sexual harassment and abuse in tertiary institutions and institutions of higher learning to present to the commission written complaints, witnesses’ statements and any other supporting documents or evidence which can assist in the investigation.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mukahanana-Sangarwe said oral hearings will commence thereafter on dates to be advised by the commission. “Any person who wishes to make any submissions in regard to the above should visit the commission offices and/or submit them, in writing, to the Chief Executive Officer, Zimbabwe Gender Commission, First Floor, Pax House, 89, Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, Harare, or send to [email protected] by not later than the 31st of August, 2025.” Newsday _*NEC CEO arrested for contempt of court*_ The National Employment Council for the Medical and Allied Industries chief executive officer Brian Chabuka (43) yesterday appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Banda facing allegations of failure to comply with a High Court order. Chabuka was jointly charged with NEC executive member Michael Sambo (44). The complainant is Medical Professional and Allied Workers Union represented by Tecla Barangwe. The complainant and Sambo had a misunderstanding over the control of Medical Profession and Allied Workers Union, which led both parties to appear before the High Court, where an order was granted in favour of the complainant. Sometime in 2013, National Employment Council for the Medical and Allied Industries was incepted, consisting of Employer Association and an Employees Association, who constitute 50% each of the board. At its inception, Sambo was representing employees under the Medical Professional and Allied Workers Union. Court documents state that in 2015, there was a leadership wrangle which led the Medical Profession and Allied Workers Union to have two factions seeking control of the union. The first faction was led by Sambo, while the other segment was aligned to Matenga Bond, who was on the side of the complainant. The matter was taken to High Court under case number HC 6375/22, contained in judgement number HH308/24. In that High Court order, both Chabuka and Sambo were the respondents and the complainant was part of the applicants in that matter. On July 24 last year, an order was granted by the High Court under HH 308/24, which ordered that pending the convening of the next congress of the first applicant, the National Employment Council was supposed to recognise the national council of the first applicant [Medical Professional and Allied Workers Union], as recognised in the High Court judgment as the lawful leadership of the first applicant for purposes of representation of the first applicant in meetings of the third respondent. Secondly, the order stated that pending the convening of the next congress of the first applicant, the third respondent was interdicted from dealing and or recognising the first and second respondents as leaders of the first applicant. Thereafter, the court heard that Sambo made an appeal against a judgment which was made in Supreme Court case number SC 485/24. However, the appeal was dismissed with costs. After the appeal was dismissed, both Chabuka and Sambo were supposed to comply with the order issued by Justice Siyabona Paul Musithu, but they defied the order. Further to that, Chabuka was supposed to call for a board meeting in fulfilment of the judgment, a position which is not done up to date. On February 6 this year, the complainant then further wrote to Chabuka advising him to convene an urgent meeting of the National Employment Council since the complainant was now a member of the National Council. Sambo’s lawyers responded representing all the accused persons citing that they were unable to accede to their request and they continued defying the court order. As such, the accused persons defied a court order issued by both High Court and Supreme Court of Zimbabwe. The matter was remanded to March 5. Newsday _*No to Fast Track Tolls and Free Parking for MPs, Serve the people first*_ Recent announcement that Members of Parliament (MPs) in Harare will now enjoy free parking in the Central Business District (CBD) and access to express lanes at toll gates on our highways just wrong. We as Zimbabwean want all these serves. This decision, made by Speaker Jacob Mudenda, raises significant concerns about the priorities of our elected officials and their commitment to serving the people who elected them. The introduction of free parking and express toll lanes for MPs is a glaring example of self-serving governance. While the government touts this initiative as a pilot project aimed at facilitating the movement of officials, it effectively places the interests of MPs above those of the general public. At a time when Zimbabwe faces severe economic challenges evidenced by an annual inflation rate of 538% and a struggling currency these perks seem extravagant and disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary citizens. Zimbabweans are grappling with escalating costs of living and limited access to basic services. The average citizen is already burdened by rising fuel prices, with petrol being sold at Z$36 on the black market. Meanwhile, the number of registered vehicles has surged to over 1.4 million, exacerbating traffic congestion in urban areas. By allowing MPs to bypass toll fees and parking charges, the government sends a message that the elite are above the law, reinforcing socioeconomic divides. It is imperative that our leaders remain accountable to the electorate. The decision to grant MPs these privileges not only undermines public trust but also diminishes the integrity of our democratic institutions. Elected officials should be leading by example, demonstrating solidarity with the citizens they represent. Instead of indulging in privileges, MPs should focus on addressing the pressing issues facing their constituents such as the high cost of living, power shortages averaging 18 hours a day, corruption and rampant high unemployment. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The fundamental role of an MP is to serve the interests of their constituents. This includes advocating for policies that promote economic stability, social equity, and community welfare. The government must prioritise initiatives that benefit the populace rather than catering to the whims of its members. Policies should be designed to improve public infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and create a more inclusive economy. The latest developments concerning free parking and express toll lanes for MPs underscore the urgent need for a shift in priorities within our government. It is time for our leaders to truly serve the people first before serving themselves. As citizens, we must demand accountability and transparency from our elected officials and ensure that their actions reflect the needs and concerns of the electorate. Only through genuine commitment to public service can we hope to rebuild trust and foster a more equitable society. In a nation facing numerous challenges, let us stand united in saying no to privileges for the few while the many continue to struggle. The call for change is clear, serve the people first! Izvi ndaramba Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi _*Trump and Zelensky in extraordinary and unprecedented Oval Office shouting match*_ US President Donald Trump cut short a meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday and said the Ukrainian leader is “not ready” for peace with Russia in an extraordinary meltdown in the Oval Office that threw question marks over chances for a truce. Zelensky was meant to be making a full White House visit to sign a US-Ukrainian deal for joint exploitation of Ukraine’s mineral resources, as part of a post-war recovery in a US-brokered peace deal. Instead, an ugly clash blew up almost immediately in the Oval Office where Trump and Vice President JD Vance shouted at Zelensky, accusing him of not being thankful for US help in the three-year war against Russian invasion. Trump berated Zelensky, telling him to be more “thankful” and that without US assistance Ukraine would have been conquered by Russia. “You’re either going to make a deal or we’re out,” Trump added. “And if we’re out, you’ll fight it out and I don’t think it’s going to be pretty.” Zelensky left in his motorcade shortly after, without holding a planned joint press conference. The resources deal was left unsigned, the White House said. Trump took to his Truth Social platform to castigate Zelensky saying “he disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office.” Zelensky is “not ready for peace,” Trump wrote. “He can come back when he is ready for peace.” Compromise row The extraordinary meltdown came after Trump said Ukraine will have to make “compromises” in a truce with Russia, which has occupied swaths of Ukraine, destroying entire cities and towns along the way. “You can’t do any deals without compromises. So certainly, he’s going to have to make some compromises, but hopefully they won’t be as big as some people think,” Trump said. But showing Trump pictures of war atrocities and referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky said there should be “no compromises with a killer on our territory.” “Crazy Russians,” he said, deported Ukrainian children and committed war crimes during their three-year invasion of his country. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The dramatic public breakdown in the long-tense relationship between Zelensky and Trump came after their meeting — in front of a large group of journalists — had appeared to get off to a friendlier start. Zelensky had said, “I think President Trump is on our side.” Truce talks in doubt The clash left in doubt efforts led by Trump to cast himself as mediator in the war. The leaders of France and Britain also came to the White House this week, seeking to persuade Trump not to take the Russian line and to bolster US support for Ukraine in a future truce. After the drama in the White House, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk told Zelensky: “You are not alone.” Trump has alarmed Kyiv and European allies with his abrupt U-turn in US policy, ending what had been full-throated support for Ukraine’s attempt to defeat the Russian invasion and casting himself as a mediator between Putin and Zelensky. Trump said in the Oval Office that he had “spoken on numerous occasions” to Putin — more than has been publicly reported beyond the lengthy call between the two leaders earlier this February. Speaking before the shouting match erupted, Trump told Zelensky that a truce is “fairly close.” The US leader also said that the proposed minerals deal would be “very fair.” The proposal was to give Washington financial benefits for helping Ukraine in a truce, even if Trump has repeatedly refused to commit any US military force as a back-up to European troops who might act as peacekeepers. ‘Dictator without elections’ The clash came after Trump has flip-flopped in his tone on Zelensky. Trump called him a “dictator” last week and has repeatedly blamed Ukraine for Russia’s February 2022 invasion and echoed a series of Kremlin talking points about how the war started. But on Thursday, Trump said at a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: “I have a lot of respect for him.” “We’re going to get along really well,” he said. Trump, who has repeatedly expressed admiration for Putin, said this week he trusts Putin to “keep his word” on any ceasefire. Senate Democrats accused Trump and Vance of siding with Putin. They are “doing Putin’s dirty work. Senate Democrats will never stop fighting for freedom and democracy,” Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer posted on social media. “Disgraceful,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. As tensions between Moscow and Washington escalated, Russia’s assault on Ukraine continued. Russian infantry were on Friday storming the Ukrainian border from the Russian region of Kursk, near areas of the region that were seized last summer by Ukrainian forces, Kyiv said Friday. _*Microsoft shuts down Skype, Internet’s call pioneer after it fails to evolve*_ "Starting in May 2025, Skype will no longer be available," said a post from Skype support on X, directing users to sign into Microsoft's Teams platform for further use of its services. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Skype was founded in 2003 by Scandinavians Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis in Estonia, revolutionizing internet communication by offering free voice calls between computers and affordable rates for calls to landlines and mobile phones. Over the years, and as internet speeds improved, Skype evolved to include video calls, instant messaging, file sharing and group communication features. By 2005, Skype had already reached 50 million registered users, demonstrating its rapid global adoption. Online auction site eBay acquired Skype in 2005 for approximately $2.6 billion, but the expected synergies never panned out, and in 2009, eBay sold a majority stake to a group of investors, who then sold it to Microsoft. In recent years, especially after the rise of the smartphone, Skype failed to hold onto its place against new rivals such as Meta-owned WhatsApp and Zoom, as well as Microsoft's own Teams. "We've learned a lot from Skype... as we've evolved Teams over the last seven to eight years," Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps and platforms, told CNBC. "But we felt like now is the time because we can be simpler for the market, for our customer base, and we can deliver more innovation faster just by being focused on Teams." Microsoft said that Skype group chats would remain intact in the transition to Teams and that during a 60-day window, messages on Microsoft and Teams will be interoperable so you can message contacts from Teams and those messages will be delivered to friends still using Skype. In one big change, Microsoft is removing Skype's telephony features, meaning you'll no longer be able to call regular phone numbers, cell phones, or make international calls through the service. Microsoft told The Verge that these features are no longer as relevant in today's communication landscape where mobile data plans are less expensive. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The name "Skype" derived from "Sky peer-to-peer," the technology that was fundamental to Skype's original architecture. The peer-to-peer aspect was crucial as it distributed the network demands across users' computers rather than relying solely on centralized servers, which was a key innovation that allowed Skype to scale rapidly during its early years.