HOT TOPICS ONLINE ............. *Chiwenga's wife robbed, 4 arrested* (B24) *Prophet Magaya sparks buzz with acquisition of 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan* (B24) *Sexworker 'murdered' over US$500* (Mirror) *Warrant of arrest for former Zanu-PF youth league leader* (B24) *Woman convicted for making false rape report* (B24) *64 families set to benefit as Dombotombo housing project progresses* (Zbc) *How Floyd Shivambu caused MK Party downfall and real reasons why Zuma eventually demoted him… Julius Malema celebrates* (My Zimbabwe News) ......... ©Zoomic Media https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaD22E27YScxhpM8Re26 *Chiwenga's wife robbed, 4 arrested* (B24) Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga, the wife of Zimbabwe's Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, was the victim of a burglary at her electronics shop located in the upmarket Sam Levy's Village in Borrowdale, Harare, resulting in the theft of mobile phones valued at US$13,420. According to police, the break-in occurred recently and triggered a swift response from law enforcement. Four suspects - Blessed Luciano, Isaac Craig Chaza, Strive Matangira, and Succeed Mukaro - were apprehended on June 3, 2025, by detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Borrowdale. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests and revealed that most of the stolen mobile phones have since been recovered. He said investigations were still underway to ensure all items are accounted for and to determine whether the suspects were part of a larger syndicate. "The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the quick action by the CID Borrowdale team, which led to the arrest of the suspects and recovery of the stolen property," said Commissioner Nyathi. The incident adds to a growing list of high-profile robberies reported across the country this year, raising concerns about security, particularly in affluent suburbs and business districts. While there were no reported injuries during the break-in, the case has reignited public debate around the safety of high-ranking officials and their families, even in guarded commercial zones like Sam Levy's Village. Authorities say more details will be shared as investigations continue. ------- *Prophet Magaya sparks buzz with acquisition of 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan* (B24) Prominent religious leader and entrepreneur Walter Magaya has made headlines once again after acquiring a 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, one of the world's most luxurious and expensive SUVs. The vehicle's arrival in Zimbabwe has reignited conversations about wealth, status, and leadership in a country grappling with persistent economic hardships. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, widely regarded as a symbol of prestige and opulence, boasts exceptional craftsmanship, advanced technology, and a commanding road presence. The 2025 model combines its signature luxury with rugged off-road performance, making it a sought-after choice among global elites. Magaya's latest addition to his car collection has sparked mixed reactions across social media platforms and within local communities. While supporters view it as a testament to his hard work and success through ministry and business ventures, critics have questioned the optics of flaunting such wealth in a nation where many continue to struggle with inflation, unemployment, and public service deficiencies. Despite the divided opinions, Magaya remains a towering figure in Zimbabwe's religious and socio-economic spheres. His Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries continues to command a large following, and his portfolio includes interests in real estate, agriculture, and hospitality. The new Cullinan joins a fleet of high-end vehicles previously associated with Magaya and reflects how luxury automobiles remain powerful markers of influence and affluence among Zimbabwe's elite. As public fascination with Magaya's lifestyle endures, further updates on his ventures and impact on both the spiritual and economic landscapes are expected in the coming weeks. Source - Kudzai Mutisi ..... *Sexworker 'murdered' over US$500* (Mirror) Police in Mberengwa have launched a manhunt for two men wanted in connection with the brutal murder of 20-year-old sex worker Viola Hove, whose body was found in an abandoned house five days after she went missing. The suspects, identified as Manyaya Muvhecha and Shepherd Mhundoga of Jumbo 79 Mine in Mberengwa, are accused of assaulting and murdering Hove following a dispute over a missing US$500. Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident to the Masvingo Mirror and appealed to members of the public for information that could lead to the arrest of the two fugitives. According to police reports, Muvhecha and Mhundoga hired the services of Hove and another woman, Kudzanai Machipisa (20), on the night of May 9, 2025. The two women accompanied the men to the mine for a sleepover. The following morning, an argument broke out between one of the men and Hove, whom he accused of stealing US$500. A neighbor reportedly intervened and advised that the matter be reported to the police. Muvhecha and Mhundoga subsequently filed a theft report against Hove. However, shortly after the report was made, Hove went missing. Concerned by her disappearance, her sister, Previous Hove (32), filed a missing person report with the police. On May 15, following a tip-off, police discovered Hove's lifeless body in an abandoned house at Village 4, Dunning Farm, under Chief Bvute in Mberengwa. Authorities confirmed that the body bore signs of physical assault. Since the discovery, Muvhecha and Mhundoga have disappeared and remain on the run. Police say they are wanted for questioning in connection with Hove's death. "We are appealing to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects to contact the nearest police station," said Inspector Mahoko. The murder has sparked outrage in the local community, with calls for justice and greater protection for vulnerable women, particularly sex workers who often operate in dangerous and unregulated environments. Investigations are ongoing. Source - Mirror -------- *Warrant of arrest for former Zanu-PF youth league leader* (B24) A Harare court has issued a warrant of arrest for former Zanu-PF youth leader Lewis Matutu after he failed to appear in court for the continuation of his fraud trial, where he faces allegations of stealing US$150,000 through the illegal acquisition of company shares. Matutu is jointly charged with Blessing Kusangaya, Tafadzwa Kusangaya, Muzimba Muhamba, and Chisakwa Muhamba. The group stands accused of forging company documents to unlawfully take control of Shisib Investments, a mining company. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the alleged fraud dates back to 2018 when Matutu and his co-accused, together with other unnamed accomplices, devised a scheme to defraud the company by altering its shareholding structure. Prosecutors say the accused prepared and submitted backdated annual returns - purporting to cover the years 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018 - and forged the signatures of the complainant, Joseph Sibanda, and a company secretary named Lyton Shumba. The fraudulent documents reportedly indicated that the accused had become majority shareholders and directors of Shisib Investments, despite having no legitimate claim to the shares. These forged returns were then submitted to the Registrar of Companies, effectively sidelining the rightful owner. The matter came to light on September 30, 2024, when Sibanda was contacted by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. Officials informed him that the accused had instructed the department to halt all mining operations at the company's site, claiming they had resolved as shareholders to sell the mining claim. The department sought a meeting with a representative of Shisib Investments, raising red flags for Sibanda. Further allegations reveal that the accused used their illegally acquired status to participate in the company's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 19, 2024, during which they reportedly removed Sibanda from his position as director and changed the official address of the company. "As a result of the accused's actions, the complainant suffered an actual prejudice of US$150,000 and nothing was recovered," the prosecution said in court papers. Matutu's failure to attend court proceedings prompted the magistrate to issue a warrant for his immediate arrest. The trial is expected to proceed once he is taken into custody. The case has attracted public interest due to Matutu's high-profile political background as a former Zanu-PF Youth League leader, once known for his anti-corruption rhetoric. His alleged involvement in the fraudulent scheme has cast a shadow over his previous reformist image. Court proceedings against the remaining accused are set to continue, while efforts are underway to locate and apprehend Matutu. ..... *Woman convicted for making false rape report* (B24) A woman who falsely reported a rape case against a man she identified only as "Mupostori" has been convicted and sentenced after admitting to fabricating the serious allegation out of spite. The incident began on May 9, 2025, around 2130 hours, when the offender approached police to file a rape complaint. The accused was immediately subjected to police investigations based on the seriousness of the charge. However, ten days later, on May 19, the woman returned to the police and withdrew the allegations, admitting that she had not been raped, but had instead been assaulted after searching the man's pockets. She confessed to knowingly filing a false report out of personal resentment. Authorities proceeded to charge the woman for deliberately supplying false information to the police. She was convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment, of which two months were suspended for five years on condition of good behavior. The remaining four months were suspended on the condition that she completes 140 hours of community service. Legal experts and law enforcement officials have condemned the abuse of the justice system, warning that false rape claims undermine real victims' chances of justice and place innocent people at risk. Police reminded the public that making false criminal reports is a serious offense and will be dealt with decisively. ...... *64 families set to benefit as Dombotombo housing project progresses* Story by Tawanda Mazhangara MARONDERA -THE construction of flats under the Dombotombo Housing Project in Marondera is nearing completion, with the contractor now attending to the final stages of the development. The project is set to provide decent accommodation to 64 families, primarily civil servants, as part of the Second Republic’s broader efforts to address the country’s housing backlog. Located in the heart of Mashonaland East province, the housing initiative is a key component of the government’s strategy to improve the welfare of public sector workers while promoting inclusive urban development in line with the National Development Strategy One (NDS1). Speaking during a site tour conducted this Thursday, the Chief Director in the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, Mr Kudzai Rimai, said the progress at Dombotombo reflects government’s unwavering commitment to Vision 2030 goals. “This project is a manifestation of Vision 2030 through the NDS1 which sets our national housing delivery as a nation to one million households. The commendable progress being witnessed is a result of collaborative efforts of the government and its partners,” he said. Special Advisor to the President Responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Joram Gumbo, noted that the project is tangible proof of the Second Republic’s resolve to provide affordable and decent housing. “The Dombotombo project is one of the milestones of the Second Republic which enhances His Excellency’s mantra of Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo. The completion of these blocks of flats will provide decent accommodation for our hardworking civil servants in Mashonaland East province,” he said. Provincial Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Mashonaland East, Mr Tavabarira Kutamahufa, also emphasised the importance of decentralisation in housing provision. “The coming in of devolution has allowed for the decentralisation of government departments, hence the growing need for decent and affordable housing for our civil servants,” he said. The Government of Zimbabwe has set an ambitious target of delivering one million housing units by the end of 2025, a goal being pursued through partnerships with both public and private entities. ....... *64 families set to benefit as Dombotombo housing project progresses* (Zbc) Story by Tawanda Mazhangara MARONDERA -THE construction of flats under the Dombotombo Housing Project in Marondera is nearing completion, with the contractor now attending to the final stages of the development. The project is set to provide decent accommodation to 64 families, primarily civil servants, as part of the Second Republic’s broader efforts to address the country’s housing backlog. Located in the heart of Mashonaland East province, the housing initiative is a key component of the government’s strategy to improve the welfare of public sector workers while promoting inclusive urban development in line with the National Development Strategy One (NDS1). Speaking during a site tour conducted this Thursday, the Chief Director in the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, Mr Kudzai Rimai, said the progress at Dombotombo reflects government’s unwavering commitment to Vision 2030 goals. “This project is a manifestation of Vision 2030 through the NDS1 which sets our national housing delivery as a nation to one million households. The commendable progress being witnessed is a result of collaborative efforts of the government and its partners,” he said. Special Advisor to the President Responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Joram Gumbo, noted that the project is tangible proof of the Second Republic’s resolve to provide affordable and decent housing. “The Dombotombo project is one of the milestones of the Second Republic which enhances His Excellency’s mantra of Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo. The completion of these blocks of flats will provide decent accommodation for our hardworking civil servants in Mashonaland East province,” he said. Provincial Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Mashonaland East, Mr Tavabarira Kutamahufa, also emphasised the importance of decentralisation in housing provision. “The coming in of devolution has allowed for the decentralisation of government departments, hence the growing need for decent and affordable housing for our civil servants,” he said. The Government of Zimbabwe has set an ambitious target of delivering one million housing units by the end of 2025, a goal being pursued through partnerships with both public and private entities. ------ *Top Bulawayo gospel musician Pastor Barak dies* Pastor Barak whose real name is Siphethangani Sibanda, died yesterday. The cause of his death is yet to be established. He rose to fame with hits such as “Wavuma,” “Bayashada,” and “Qina,” which anchored local gospel charts. Mourners are gathered at number 91 Percy Avenue, Hillside, Bulawayo. -------- *How Floyd Shivambu caused MK Party downfall and real reasons why Zuma eventually demoted him… Julius Malema celebrates* (My Zimbabwe News) By Nelson Bhebhe- 5 June 20250 In the intricate world of South African politics, alliances can shift, and fortunes can change in the blink of an eye. This is the story of Floyd Shivambu, a prominent figure whose journey from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to a high-ranking position in the uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party, and subsequent downfall, is a stark reminder of the volatile nature of political power. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of controversial religious figures, internal party conflicts, and the ever-present influence of former President Jacob Zuma. The seeds of Shivambu’s undoing were sown during the Easter weekend of 2025, when he made a visit to Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, a Malawian pastor who was at the time a fugitive from South African justice. Bushiri, a charismatic preacher, had built a large following in South Africa, but he was also facing serious charges of fraud and money laundering. His escape to Malawi had become a major embarrassment for the South African government, and a sensitive issue for many. Shivambu’s decision to visit Bushiri was immediately met with criticism. Justice Minister Mmamaloko Kubayi publicly condemned the visit, calling it a “blatant act of disrespect” towards South Africa’s legal system. She argued that it would only encourage those who thought they could evade accountability. The MK party itself distanced itself from Shivambu’s actions, claiming that he had undertaken the visit in his personal capacity, without the party’s knowledge or approval. At this point, Shivambu could have chosen to defuse the situation. An apology, or even a simple acknowledgment of the controversy, might have been enough to quell the rising discontent. However, he chose a different path. In a television interview, Shivambu boldly asserted that his visit to Bushiri had been sanctioned by none other than Jacob Zuma, the leader of the MK party. This claim was quickly refuted by the party’s spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, who stated that the party stood by its initial criticism of the visit. Instead of backing down, Shivambu doubled down. In another interview, he declared that he would “never apologise” for visiting Prophet Shepherd Bushiri. He also expressed his conviction that joining the MK party was the best political decision he had ever made. These defiant statements, made in the face of mounting criticism, would ultimately seal his fate. To fully understand the significance of these events, it’s important to rewind a few months and examine Shivambu’s entry into the MK party. In August 2024, Shivambu made the surprising move from the EFF, where he had served as deputy president, to the MK party. Zuma, who had known Shivambu since his days in the ANC Youth League, welcomed him with open arms. Zuma praised Shivambu as a “real politician” with “scientific politics,” an “honest politician” who made decisions at the right time and for the right reasons. However, Shivambu’s arrival in the MK party was not without its detractors. Some senior party members questioned his rapid ascent to positions of power. Within weeks, he was appointed as national organiser and then secretary-general. These individuals pointed out that just months earlier, Shivambu had been actively campaigning against the MK party during the May 2024 elections. The concerns about Shivambu’s leadership were further fueled by the MK party’s performance in a municipal by-election in Ward 33 in eThekwini. Shivambu led the party’s campaign in this election, which should have been an easy win, considering the DA’s struggles and the ANC’s decline in the area. However, the MK party’s vote share dropped significantly, raising questions about Shivambu’s effectiveness as a national organiser. Despite these setbacks, Shivambu was appointed as secretary-general in November 2024, as the MK party prepared to celebrate its first anniversary. During this period, allegations surfaced that Shivambu was attempting to centralise financial control of the party, seeking sole authority over its funds. This move further alienated him from some of his colleagues. The MK party’s first anniversary celebrations in Durban were marred by logistical problems. Despite having secured a large number of votes in the May elections, the party struggled to fill the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Traditional leaders boycotted the event after being denied entry, and hundreds of supporters were unable to attend due to a lack of transportation. Shivambu apologised for these issues, but the damage had been done. Internal tensions continued to simmer. In February 2025, Duduzile Zuma, Jacob Zuma’s daughter, launched a tirade against Shivambu on social media, calling him “the worst thing that happened to MK” and “useless.” She even referred to him as “Mafikizolo,” a derogatory term for a newcomer. While Duduzile Zuma was later instructed to apologise, her outburst reflected the growing discontent within the party. In March 2025, Mxolisi Mthethwa, the MK party’s Zululand coordinator, publicly criticised Shivambu’s leadership, citing poor decision-making, lack of consultation, and abuse of power. Mthethwa and others accused Shivambu of appointing his own people to key positions within the party. In the same month, Shivambu faced criticism for imposing strict controls over access to Jacob Zuma. He issued a directive stating that all MK party representatives were forbidden from seeking direct meetings with Zuma without first consulting with party officials. Shivambu defended this decision, arguing that it was necessary to ensure that issues were properly vetted before being brought to the president’s attention. The culmination of these events led to Shivambu’s demotion from secretary-general on 3 June 2025. Nkosinathi Nhleko, the party’s national chairperson, explained that Shivambu’s visit to Bushiri was the final straw. He stated that the visit was not officially sanctioned by the party or Zuma, and therefore violated the party’s constitution. Nhleko emphasised the seriousness of the matter, stating that it had implications for the party’s image, values, and principles. He announced that Zuma and the national officials had been left with “no other option” but to act swiftly. As a result, Shivambu was redeployed to Parliament as an ordinary Member, where the party is led by chief whip Colleen Makhubele and party deputy president John Hlophe. At the same media briefing, Shivambu apologised and accepted his demotion. He affirmed his commitment to the MK party and stated that he fully accepted the decision of the national officials. Zuma, who has the authority to appoint and dismiss leaders at will, is now tasked with finding the MK party’s fifth secretary-general in less than 18 months. Zuma addressed the situation, stating that it was important to clarify the party’s relationship with Bushiri. He said that the decision to demote Shivambu was made out of respect for the people the party represented. In the aftermath of Shivambu’s demotion, Julius Malema, the leader of the EFF, weighed in on the situation. Malema downplayed the significance of Shivambu’s new role in Parliament, suggesting that the EFF’s influence would not be diminished. He stated that he did not work with Shivambu and that Shivambu would not be able to undermine the EFF’s “superior logic.” Malema also addressed the issue of black political unity, responding to criticism that the EFF had not shown a willingness to unite with other black-led parties. He argued that the EFF had always advocated for black unity, but that forming a new party and then calling for unity was disingenuous. Malema also commented on the developments involving Imogen Mashazi, the Ekurhuleni city manager, whose contract was set to expire in August. He clarified that the request for Mashazi to go on special leave was expected and not controversial, comparing it to similar practices followed by high-ranking public officials nearing retirement. In conclusion, the story of Floyd Shivambu’s rise and fall within the MK party is a complex tale of political ambition, internal conflicts, and controversial associations. His decision to visit Shepherd Bushiri, his subsequent defiance in the face of criticism, and the underlying tensions within the MK party all contributed to his downfall. The events highlight the ever-shifting landscape of South African politics and the challenges of maintaining unity and stability within political organizations. ....... *Edgar Lungu’s Cause Of Death Revealed* (Zimeye) South Africa— Preliminary reports suggest that former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu died from complications related to swallowing, according to South African sources close to the matter. Lungu passed away early Thursday in South Africa, where he had been receiving medical treatment. The South African government, which had been hosting and monitoring his care, is expected to issue a full statement clarifying the exact cause of death. Lungu’s party, the Patriotic Front (PF), confirmed a statement released Thursday saying Lungu had “been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa” for an undisclosed illness. The party mourned the passing of a man it described as a “statesman, patriot and servant of the people.” President Emmerson Mnangagwa was the biggest loser following the death of the 68 years old former Zambian head of state.. Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, after assuming office following the death of Michael Sata. He presided over a turbulent period marked by rising debt, an economic downturn, and growing authoritarian tendencies, including a crackdown on dissent and independent media. Despite these challenges, he remained a revered figure among fellow regional leaders, especially those within the former liberation movements. His close relationship with Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the broader Zanu PF elite was no secret. OK Zimbabwe stores He often expressed admiration for Zimbabwe’s “revolutionary resilience” and maintained warm ties with the Southern African Development Community (SADC)’s regional bloc of former liberation movements — including South Africa’s ANC, Mozambique’s Frelimo, and Namibia’s Swapo. During his presidency, Lungu was a consistent voice in support of Mnangagwa, both during and after the 2017 coup that ousted long-time Zimbabwean ruler Robert Mugabe. Lungu was one of the first leaders to endorse Mnangagwa’s legitimacy and was seen as a regional bulwark against Western criticism of Zanu PF’s human rights abuses and disputed electoral processes.OK Zimbabwe stores But Lungu’s own rule was marred by accusations of authoritarianism. He oversaw the arrest of opposition figures, the militarization of state institutions, and controversial constitutional amendments aimed at extending his grip on power. His 2021 re-election bid was marked by growing public dissatisfaction, culminating in a decisive loss to opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema. On the eve of the 2021 election results announcement, Lungu infamously shut down the internet — a move widely condemned by rights groups. His final public call as president, was on 13 August 2021, in a conversation with ZimEye which urged him to avoid plunging the country into post-election violence. After conceding defeat, Lungu briefly stepped back from politics but re-emerged in late 2023 with subtle hints of a political comeback — sparking tensions within the PF and fears of renewed political instability. Though controversial at home, Lungu continued to enjoy a degree of respect among former liberation movement leaders. His passing is felt deeply within that political fraternity, particularly in Harare, where Mnangagwa regarded him as both a comrade and regional ally. Lungu is survived by his wife Esther and their children. Details of his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.