WhatsApp Accounts Takeover: Here is what Is Happening in Zimbabwe !

A major wave of WhatsApp account takeovers and scams is currently sweeping across Zimbabwe, prompting urgent warnings from both the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and Econet Wireless as well as cyber security experts.

Social media has been awash with affected users saying they have been logged out despite retaining their SIM cards, while some claim they had enabled two-step verification and email recovery but still loose their accounts.

Screenshots circulating online show the message:

 “You have been logged out. Your phone number is no longer registered with WhatsApp on this phone.”

The cause of the reported incidents remains unclear, and it has not been established whether all cases are connected.

Digital Expert Kuda Musasiwa writing on X said that the recent wave of WhatsApp hacking have been primarily on whatsapp business with a hacking bot that was created

He outlined a familiar pattern that a lot of people falling victim to . 

He said "criteria to be hacked:

1. Have an econet line registered on whatsapp business
2. Have your device be offline/the app closed for 5 mins or more

Hacking Process:

1. Temporary Call/SMS Forwarding on econet line to intercept and get onetime OTP
2. If Enabled, it then bypasses all other 2FA processes, (still don't know how its doing this)
3. Logs into your whatsapp – (as long as u are still offline or the app is still closed)
4. Changes 2FA email address, creates broadcast lists to send phishing links or messages asking for money 
5.  If you are being targeted remove information like linked bank cards (if you run ads from whatsapp) and remove linked accounts like Instagram or facebook.

 However, cybersecurity experts who spoke to TechnoMag have highlighted several methods criminals can use to hijack WhatsApp accounts, including social engineering and the unauthorised linking of devices.

Prominent cybersecurity expert and digital forensics specialist Dr Whisper Rukanda said the incidents should be treated as a serious digital identity and financial fraud concern.

“What we are potentially seeing is the exploitation of trust. Criminals may not need to break WhatsApp’s encryption or penetrate its servers. They can manipulate users into surrendering verification codes, exploit weaknesses in SIM replacement procedures, deceive users into linking unauthorised devices, or compromise their phones,” he said.

In an exclusive interview with TechnoMag, Dr Shakemore Chinofunga, an ICT governance and cybersecurity expert, identified linked-device abuse as one method through which criminals can gain access to WhatsApp Business accounts.

He said victims may be tricked into scanning malicious QR codes or entering pairing codes, unknowingly authorising an attacker’s device. Criminals can then access customer conversations and impersonate businesses to solicit fraudulent payments, sometimes without the account owner immediately noticing.

Dr Kundai Chinyongo also warned users against joining 

suspicious WhatsApp groups and clicking unverified links, highlighting a technique known as GhostPairing, in which victims are deceived into linking an unauthorised device to their accounts.

Meanwhile, Econet Wireless, has urged customers to strengthen their WhatsApp security by enabling passkeys and two-step verification.

 The telecommunications company also cautioned users against sharing verification codes and security PINs, warning that these precautions can help reduce the risk of account hijacking.

Dr Rukanda also said public awareness must be accompanied by stronger identity verification, secure account-recovery processes and rapid incident reporting. He urged users to protect verification codes, review linked devices and independently verify requests for money.

“

The broader lesson is that cybersecurity is no longer just about protecting computers and networks. It is also about protecting our digital identities, our businesses and the trust on which our digital economy depends,” he said.

Lessons from a Cybersecurity Nightmares

In this age of digital interconnectivity, our lives increasingly depend on technology for convenience, communication, and commerce. However, this reliance also makes us vulnerable to cyberattacks, as I have painfully learned over the past month. 

Hackers infiltrated my digital world, compromising my MasterCard, social media accounts, and professional platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. The emotional and financial toll of losing control over my personal and professional life has been immense.

This experience underscores the critical importance of cybersecurity and data protection. To protect yourself from similar misfortunes, it is essential to adopt stringent measures to secure your online presence. Below are some key steps to safeguard your data, passwords, and accounts:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Avoid using common passwords like “123456” or “password.” Instead, create complex passwords with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Use different passwords for each account to ensure that a breach in one does not compromise all.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Wherever possible, activate 2FA for an added layer of security. This requires a second form of verification, such as a text message or authentication app, making it harder for hackers to gain access.

3. Be Cautious with Online Purchases

When shopping online, ensure the website is secure. Look for “https://” in the URL and a padlock symbol. Avoid entering card details on unsecured or unfamiliar websites, and consider using a virtual card for online transactions.

4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Frequently check your financial accounts and social media profiles for any unusual activity. Early detection of unauthorized access can help minimize damage.

5. Be Wary of Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals often use phishing emails or messages to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

6. Keep Your Software Updated

Ensure your devices and applications are updated regularly to protect against vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. This includes installing the latest security patches and antivirus software.

7. Limit Permissions and Data Sharing

Review the permissions granted to apps and services. Avoid sharing unnecessary personal data, and only allow trusted applications to access your information.

8. Backup Your Data

Regularly back up important data to an external device or secure cloud service. In case of a breach, this ensures you don’t lose everything.

9. Seek Professional Help if Compromised

If you suspect your accounts have been hacked, act swiftly by changing your passwords, reporting the issue to the platform, and seeking assistance from cybersecurity experts.

10. Educate Yourself and Others

Cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires awareness. Stay informed about the latest threats and share knowledge with your friends, family, and colleagues to build a safer digital community.

The digital world offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires vigilance. By adopting these measures, you can minimize the risk of cyberattacks and protect your valuable data and assets. Remember, safeguarding your digital identity is not just a technical necessity—it’s a critical part of modern life.

Let my experience be a wake-up call. The cost of complacency is too high. Take action today to secure your digital future.

From Zimbabwe to Georgia: A Global Trend of Repressive Legislation

 

A wave of repressive legislation restricting NGOs and media freedoms around the world is slowly crippling in sending shivers down the spine of those who believe in an egalitarian society. Is dictatorship winning?  From Georgia's recent "foreign agents" law to the Private Voluntary Bill in Zimbabwe, repressive regimes are employing these laws to silence criticism and tighten their grip on power.

By Llyoyd Takawira  (ZW)

For several weeks, tens of thousands of Georgians have been protesting the “foreign agent’s bill”, which many believe will lead to crackdowns on civil society and the media and prevent the country from joining the European Union

Echoes of Authoritarianism: The Case of Zimbabwe

It must be noted that, just like Georgia, Zimbabwe is coming up with a PVO Amendment Bill. The bill according to critics mirrors exactly Georgia's controversial law. Just like the Foreign Agents law in Georgia which requires NGOs and media outlets receiving foreign funding to register as "foreign agents," a label reminiscent of the Cold War era, the PVO bill in Zimbabwe seeks to have the government over-meddling in the registration and management of non-governmental organizations.

 Pro-democracy human rights in Zimbabwe and Georgia have raised serious concerns about the repressive laws, questioning the motive behind such egregious laws. They argue that while the government reserves the right to monitor non-state actors, its mandate must not, therefore, restrict the operations of complementary actors.

 

Rights groups and lawyers have warned that the bill gives disproportionate and discretionary powers to the newly established Office of the Registrar of PVOs. The Registrar’s powers include the ability to consider, grant, or reject the registration of PVOs, with little to no judicial recourse against such decisions. But Zanu PF believes the bill would stop PVOs from meddling in the country’s political affairs and limit them to their mandate.

 

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), says it fears the law will stifle civil society's ability to hold the government accountable. True to the fears of the ZLHR, a vibrant civil society is essential for any democracy. It must be noted that independent media is a cornerstone of a free society. The PVO Bill threatens media outlets that rely on foreign funding, potentially hindering investigative journalism and diverse viewpoints.

Furthermore, it must be noted that the bill evokes memories of the repressive Smith regime in Zimbabwe's past. Its monthly assessment, Accountability Lab Zimbabwe Director, Dr McDonald Lewanika argues that a historical analysis of the PVO Bill shows how previous iterations of the PVO Act were used to silence dissent. "If you don't know the motivation, you won't know the implications." Lewanika highlighted how this Act has been influenced by major political events, such as the Economic Structural Adjustment Program, parliamentary elections in 2000, presidential elections in 2002, the unpopular constitutional referendum, and the devastating drought in Zimbabwe.

 

Why the heavy hand of violence in the ongoing public hearings:

Over the past few days, there has been an orgy of violence with suspected ruling Zanu PF party members, resorting to violence to disrupt public hearings on the PVO Bill. Incidents in Masvingo, Chinhoyi, Gweru, Harare, and, Epworth paint a harrowing picture of intimidation and suppression of public participation.  Suspected Zanu PF supporters have been on a rampage disrupting public hearings on the highly divisive Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill.

 

Suspected, Zanu PF hostile group members have been taking turns to voice their support for the government-sponsored draft legislation, viewed by the opposition and civil society as an attempt by the Zanu PF-led authority to meddle in the affairs of NGOs that have kept the state under scrutiny in terms of rights violations and poll fraud, among other violations.

 

“Vasingade ngavabude muZimbabwe. Bill redu torida muZimbabwe! (Dissenters should leave the country. We want our Bill),”.  Zanu PF youths would chant opposing contributions by those with differing  views.

Even esteemed Members of the joint Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and Thematic Committee on Gender Development who are conducting the hearings have not been spared from the violence.

 

So dire is the situation that even the media has come under attack from the ruling party in Zimbabwe. According to Newsday Zimbabwe, the ruling Zanu PF youth leader Mr Taurai Kandishaya. Threatened to “deal with” NewsDay after a journalist had called him asking about his possible links to rowdy crowds that have been disrupting countrywide Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Amendment Bill hearings. “Write whatever you want, but I will come and deal with you, personally,” he retorted.” I am not going to comment on that.

“Even if you say I was also seen in Botswana disrupting the meetings that is it. You only saw me at Ambassador.”

 

A Global Phenomenon:

Zimbabwe and Georgia are not alone. Many countries are witnessing a rise in legislation aimed at curbing dissent: Many wonder where this is coming from.

#Russia's playbook: The Georgian law is explicitly modeled after a similar law in Russia, highlighting a concerning trend of replicating authoritarian tactics.

Motivations behind the Repression:

The motivations for these repressive bills are complex, but often include:

•  Clinging to Power: Authoritarian regimes may see NGOs and independent media as threats to their control. By restricting their activities, they hope to consolidate power.
•  Stifling Criticism: A free press and vocal civil society can expose corruption and human rights abuses. These laws aim to silence those critical voices.
•  Demonizing Foreign Influence: By labeling NGOs and media as "foreign agents," these regimes attempt to discredit them and deflect blame for the country's problems.

The Fight for Democracy: A Global Call to Action

It is worthwhile noting and refreshing that in the face of trial, the world is not silent. The global community has been standing and must stand together against this erosion of democratic values.

In an impassionate plea, NED President and CEO Damon Wilson, called out on the Georgian government to rescind the foreign lobbying act, On May 14, Georgia’s Parliament passed a controversial law that would brand NGOs and media organizations receiving foreign funding as “foreign agents.”

 

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is deeply troubled by the Georgian parliament’s vote on Tuesday to adopt the controversial Russian-style “foreign agents” law that could target foreign-funded media operating in the country.

 

“The passage of ‘foreign agent’ legislation by the ruling Georgian Dream party, despite significant public opposition, is set to stifle media freedom in the lead-up to the parliamentary elections in October,” said Gulnoza Said, CPJ’s Europe and Central Asia program coordinator.

 

In an article in the Journal for Democracy,  Ghia Nodia branded the new Georgian law as “Russia’s law” for its similarities to Putin’s own version.

Ghia Nodia writing in the  Journal of Democracy argued that the country’s only hope for safeguarding its democratic freedoms.

•   International Pressure: Democratic nations can pressure Zimbabwe and other repressive regimes to withdraw these bills and uphold their international human rights commitments.

•   Supporting Civil Society: Organizations like the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) can provide critical support to NGOs and independent media in these countries.

•    Raising Awareness: Shining a light on these repressive tactics through media coverage and advocacy campaigns can help de-legitimize them.

The world cannot afford to be silent in the face of these assaults on democracy. By standing together in support of civil society and press freedom, we can send a powerful message that the flame of liberty will not be extinguished. 

Of sects and doomsday cults: Who will save us from Religious fanaticism

By Lloyd Takawira 

Religious fanaticism has been a pervasive issue in many societies, with church leaders often being viewed as gods and abusing their congregants.

 Recent events in Zimbabwe have shed light on the extent of this problem, with the arrest of Madzibaba Ishmael for abusing his congregants. 

Over the past week the police uncover unregistered graves and cases of abuse at cult leader Madzibaba Ishmael’s farm in Nyabira. 

Interestingly, Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa says his only crime is to have a good heart to take care of about 120 families housed at his Plot 6, Lily Farm, in Nyabira. Most of Madzibaba Ishmael’s followers dismissed claims they were living in captivity, saying they voluntarily followed their leader.

In 2015, Madzibaba Ishmael was sentenced to a five-year jail term for leading an attack on police officers, journalists and members of the Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe at his Budiriro shrine in 2014. 

He said: 

We do not attack people as reported by people who are fighting us. Our children, as well as our wives, are not comfortable seeing people holding guns. The team was led to a cemetery where shallow graves were dug around an anthill.

Similar allegations have been laid against prominent and charismatic church leaders such as Magaya, Makandiwa, and Sanyangore to name a few. The powerful man of cloth have been accused of abusing their congregants, taking advantage of their positions of power to manipulate and exploit vulnerable individuals.These leaders are often seen as infallible and unquestionable, with their followers believing that they have a direct line to God. 

Recently the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) says it is still pursuing a case in which PHD Ministries leader, Walter Magaya, is being accused of allegedly sexually abusing women despite indications that some of the witnesses have developed cold feet. According to the NewZimbabwe.com story on 22 October 2022, Magaya is accused of raping his female congregant in August 2015 at one of his houses in Mt Pleasant. The State alleges he went on to force the victim to terminate her pregnancy after the alleged abuse before buying her silence with $ 100,000.

Dear reader, you may recall another disturbing case in 2016, where one Prophet Sanyangore, is said to have made his congregants drink urine as a form of "holy water". The controversial man of cloth admitted  to have made his congregants drink raw sewage while clearing ground at his church stand along Seke Road. Speaking to H-Metro, the preacher said it was just a display of faith that everything is possible through the power of the Lord."It was just a demonstration of faith. We were far away from where we could get water and I just had to sprinkle salt and pray for the water.

A recent journal titled, "Religion, Women, and Girls’ Rights in Zimbabwe: the Case  of Zimbabwe’s Johanne Marange Apostolic Church” by Cornelius Dudzai, Kwashirai Zvokuomba Tarisai Gracious Mboko  Published 12 October 2023, revealed  that women and girls’ rights are compromised in religious settings and the issue goes on unreported. 

The research established that the church doctrine within the Johanne Marange Apostolic Church provides a conducive environment for the abuse of women and the girl child under the guise of 'sacredness' of the religious sect. This has been and is still going on unchecked. The study concluded that abuse cases through forced and teen marriages to older men are facilitated by both adult men and women and is highly safeguarded within religious cultism. 

This kind of extreme behaviour is not isolated to Zimbabwe, with similar cases of abuse and manipulation being reported in other countries as well.

KENYA

 In Kenya, sect leader Mackenzie was arrested for his involvement in a cult that engaged in violent and harmful practices. No fewer than 109 men, women and children are known to have died after a Kenyan charismatic church pastor encouraged his followers to fast to death to “meet Jesus” in the afterlife. Bodies of the dead were recovered from numerous mass graves on a farm at Shakahola, a village on Kenya’s south-east coast, where Pastor Paul Mackenzie had his Good News International Church. Autopsies revealed that most had starved to death. But a small number, some children, had been strangled or suffocated to death. Mackenzie now faces charges over the deaths. 

NIGERIA

In Nigeria, there have been numerous cases of extreme sect leaders who have been jailed for their abusive practices. These leaders often prey on the vulnerable and desperate, promising salvation and healing in exchange for blind obedience and financial contributions. The cycle of abuse perpetuated by these individuals is a stark reminder of the dangers of religious fanaticism.

Recently, the BBC Africa Eye investigation reveals abuse and torture by megachurch leader in Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua. The BBC Africa Eye, alleged that it has uncovered evidence of widespread abuse and torture by the founder of one of the world’s biggest Christian evangelical churches.  The allegations of abuse in a secretive Nigerian compound span almost 30 years.

What needs to be done to prevent this from happening again?

Dear reader, it is crucial that we continue to shine a light on these abuses and hold church leaders accountable for their actions. The exploitation of vulnerable individuals in the name of religion is a grave injustice that must be addressed.

1. By speaking out against religious fanaticism and demanding transparency and accountability from church leaders, we can work towards creating a safer and more just society for all.

1. In each case, the victims are exposed to mind control by charismatic religious preachers. The only difference is in the mode and motive for death in the name of the chosen cause.  
2. Every person has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief, and opinion.
3. The journal by Cornelius  etal (2024),  recommends that the government and non-state actors need to enhance child protection services and programmes in religious settings for the purpose of protecting and removing the vulnerabilities of girls within the church by prosecuting perpetrators.
4. African governments needs an honest discussion about how regulations can safeguard the right, to prevent fake religious leaders from misusing it. 
5. Regulate Religious Organizations: The government should regulate the activities of religious organizations to prevent the rise of dangerous doomsday cults. This can include setting guidelines for registration and monitoring their activities.
6. Address Socio-economic Issues: Poverty and inequality can make individuals more vulnerable to extremist ideologies. The government should address these issues and provide opportunities for employment and economic stability.
7. Strengthen Mental Health Services: Some individuals may be drawn to doomsday cults due to mental health issues. The government should provide accessible and adequate mental health services to prevent and address such cases.
8. Provide Social Support: The government should provide social support for vulnerable individuals who may be targeted by doomsday cults. This can include providing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

#2023hamornizedElection: To the abyss or its redemption for Zimbabwe.

By Lloyd Takawira 

As the country goes for the crunch harmonized election on the 23rd of August 2023, echoes of election euphoria are reverberating through beer halls, at market stores, at church gatherings and most intriguingly in WhatsApp groups which have become hunting grounds for politicians. 

With emotions boiling, the most important question(s) dear reader are: 

1) WHAT IS IT FOR THE COMMON MAN AFTER 2023 GOING FORWARD? 
2) WHAT IS IN STORE IF THE STATUS-QUO REMAINS?
3) WHAT WILL IT ENTAIL, IF THE ALTERNATIVE UPSTAGES THE STATUS-QUO? 
4) WILL IT NOT BE ANOTHER CYCLE OF DISPUTED ELECTION(s)?
 
5) WILL THE GHOST OF 1 AUGUST 2018 NOT STRIKE AGAIN?  

For the past two decades, Zimbabweans have endured torrid times. The political and economic situation exacerbated by a cycle of disputed elections, rampant corruption, and mismanagement of public funds, lawfare by the ruling  Zanu-PF government have all led to economic stagnation.

The blame game 

The country has faced persistent economic challenges, hyperinflation, food shortages, and widespread poverty. Citizens have lost faith in the government's ability to steer the nation towards progress, leading to mass emigration and brain drain, depriving Zimbabwe of its talented workforce.

However, the ruling Zanu-PF government has always defended itself arguing that the restrictive measures imposed by the West have been hampering development. 

It must be noted, dear reader that the notion of restrictive measures as an impediment has been hugely contested by many. Some Zimbabweans believe that restrictive measures have nothing to do with Zimbabwe's economic stagnation. 

 Despite numerous promises, the ruling party seems to be fixated on power retention. 

It must be noted that for the past 43 years, Zanu-PF policies have been nothing more than empty words on paper, leading to a lack of direction and a stagnant nation.

The political and economic Merry-Go-Round has spared the ruling elites with the majority wallowing in abject poverty.

Sensing spirited criticism, the ruling party, this election season abandoned its traditional election strategy of producing manifestos and instead said that, "its works are the manifesto" 

The statement impresses that for the past five years, the Zanu-PF government has done exceptionally well, however to the  contrary there is growing resentment as elections approach. Reality has shown that empty promises, devoid of any substantial implementation or results have failed to ameliorate the ever-ailing economy. 

Economists and political analysts have consistently questioned the government's lack of dedication in translating their rhetoric into tangible outcomes.

Dear reader as the nation goes for the polls, the common man in Buhera is reminiscing of the failed and  missed opportunities on the part of year's orchestrated by seemingly organized thuggocratic government a situation which has  cosequentially decimated livelihoods. 

For the past two decades, millions of Zimbabweans have migrated to other countries in search of greener pastures.

Political scholars and economists have long spoken out against the lack of direction and meaningful progress . Professor Steve Hanke, a renowned political economist, argues that political parties particularly, Zanu-PF's party promises serve as mere political stunts, with little concern for actual development or transformation in Zimbabwe. Acclaimed scholar Dr Ibbo critiques the government's penchant for grandiose promises, suggesting that without proper planning and implementation, these promises are destined to fail.

Dear reader, you are not alone in imaging 2023 going forward. Many hopes that the country's fortunes by whatever means must turn around otherwise ' Vanhu vachafamba vachitaura vega" in Madzibaba Veshanduko's words 

It is everyone's hope that the ghost of August 1,2018 will not haunt this nation. 

Peace-loving are we as Zimbabweans. 

Dear reader, as the nation goes for the polls, it is high time the voter demands tangible things from politicians. Vote out incompetence.  

Vote out career politician. In fact, "PASI NEMBAVHA" thunders Zanu-PF council of elders chairman CDE SEKERAMAYI. Yes pasi nembavha!!!!!!. 

Politicians must move beyond empty rhetoric and prioritize genuine and impactful actions for Zimbabwe's transformation. The nation deserves more than just the illusion of progress.

#2023TakanoVoter

Signing Out from #BUHERA 

Remembering Zimbabwe's Election Violence: The Brutality of 27 June 2008

By Lloyd Takawira 

'27 June ... Va Mugabe Mu Office ... 100% total empowerment' is the mantra that some shed tears upon+ hearing 

June 27, 2008, marks a dark chapter in Zimbabwe's history, marred by violence, bloodshed, and political oppression. The brutal rerun of the election served to remind the world of the lengths to which Zanu-PF would go to maintain its hold on power. 

On 27 June 2008, Zimbabwe experienced a bloody and controversial day that will forever stain its history. Following a stalemate in the February elections, in which the late democratic icon Dr Morgan Tsvangirayi had defeated former  President Robert Mugabe who then went on to orchestrate a solo rerun, leading to widespread violence and atrocities. The horrifying events of days leading to the rerun, shed light on the brutalities inflicted upon the citizens and the subsequent formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU). It is essential to reflect upon this dark chapter that revealed the depths of political brutality and the impact it had on Zimbabwe's political terrain even today.

The Violent Election Day:

As June 27, 2008, dawned upon Zimbabwe, fear, intimidation and violence against opposition supporters became the order of the day. Opposition supporters and activists were targeted, with many brutally assaulted or murdered for their political beliefs. Homes and businesses affiliated with the opposition were torched, instilling fear in the hearts of those brave enough to dissent against the oppressive leadership of Robert Mugabe.

Riot police, allegedly taking orders from Zanu-PF, further fueled the chaos by ruthlessly attacking opposition gatherings and rallies. The streets of Zimbabwe became battlegrounds, tearing families and communities apart, and causing deep physical and emotional wounds that still haunt survivors today.

To the international community 

As we remember this day, the international community SADC & AU must be reminded that  extreme violence unleashed during the June 27 elections garnered international attention and condemnation should never be allowed again. The world stood witness to the horrors inflicted upon innocent Zimbabweans who dared to challenge Mugabe's regime. 

The Evil of Zanu-PF:

It is important to acknowledge the role of Zanu-PF in perpetrating these acts of violence during the 2008 elections. The ruling party, which had maintained its grip on power since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, resorted to brutality and intimidation to protect its position.

Political analyst Malcolm Ziki had this to say

 'Even today, Zanu-PF's tactics are driven by an unrelenting desire to maintain control, even at the expense of the lives and human rights of its own citizens. Through various means, including state-sponsored violence, corruption, and suppression of free speech, Zanu-PF aimed to silence dissent and solidify its power. The events of 27 June 2008 serve as a stark reminder of the depths of their evil and the devastating consequences inflicted upon the people of Zimbabwe.

As we remember this tragic day, it is crucial to acknowledge the resilience of the Zimbabwean people who endured unimaginable hardships and violence. By shedding light on the events of 27 June 2008, we honor their struggles, reaffirm our commitment to justice, and strive for a future where democracy and human rights prevail over tyranny and violence.

Dear Politician !!!

By Lloyd Takawira
I write this letter , with so much sorrow and resentment to your flauntings . While you jostle theatrically to  have pictures taken with us and leave in your SUVs and  flamboyant vhuzis (cars) , have you thought of our predicaments.

While you leave for your state of the art flash houses in the posh low density suburbs , have you thought of our families who are struggling to put a simple meal on the table.

Deep down in the rural areas , as you leave in your posh cars , the dust from the graveled roads smoking us ,  some will be traveling over ten kilometers to and from school . Have you thought of us.

That year you visited our rural area you promised to build us a clinic alas it's been ages that promise hasn't been fulfilled yet you're here once again asking our parents to vote for you. To do what MR POLITICIAN . What evil is that .

Do you know that , the last time you visited us , Mai Jane died on her way to Chimukutu clinic which is over 20 kilometers from her village , Marutande . You never care for our basic needs because you think you're clever.

Can you imagine Mr Politician , that the same parents you're asking to vote for you , some of them were retrenched and never got a single pen owing to your actions .

Can you imagine that Mr Politician that our parents are going through serious challenges. Some of the challenges has left us destitutes . Sending us to school is nolonger an easy task , while you're kids are going overseas to learn.

Mr Politician can you self introspect!!!

Dear Politician l encourage you to read , "The cry of a child"
by  ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING

Yes Elizabeth never minced here words in her poem. She wrote a very piercing piece that l would want you to read , maybe you can change your mentality.

In case you have never come across her poem .
She said:
" Do ye hear the children weeping, O my brothers,
 Ere the sorrow comes with years ?
They are leaning their young heads against their mothers, —
  And that cannot stop their tears.

The young lambs are bleating in the meadows ;
 The young birds are chirping in the nest ;
The young fawns are playing with the shadows ;
 The young flowers are blowing toward the west—
But the young, young children, O my brothers,
They are weeping bitterly !
They are weeping in the playtime of the others,  In the country of the free."

Yes Mr Politician , l rest my case with a clarion call for you to desist from abusing us for selfie pictures . Address our plight Mr Politician.

Yours truly
The Child ( Zimbabwe)

Regime Change A Sole Privilege For Zimbabweans

Neighboring South Africa's governing party , the ANC concluded it's controversial elective congress in which cornered President Mr Cyril Ramaphosa won a controversial second term .

However, to the chagrin of most Zimbabweans has been the newly elected ANC secretary general Mr Fikile Mbalule statement that , as ANC, Fikile Mbalula said the party does not subscribe "to the idea of regime change in Zimbabwe ".

Mbalula said the ANC would intensify assisting neighbouring Zimbabwe to recover from decades of economic downturn and massive brain drain.

“We must be very much concerned about what is happening in Zimbabwe, and what role we need to play. We do not subscribe to the idea of regime change in Zimbabwe. We need to campaign very hard to get things right, because Zimbabweans are coming to our country in their numbers."

 The world over , the privilege of  effecting regime change in an county  #Zimbabwe in particular is the sole  privilege people in that nation. 

In that case no nation must push for or against regime change in an nation as that would tantamount to interference to the internal affairs of a sovereign nation.

 In this case , #Zimbabweans not any foreigner have the prerogative to effect regime change. 

Zimbabwe  being a sovereign nation and  not an appendage of  of South Africa means that . "We as Zimbabweans in our diversity return the right to effect or refuse regime change based on our preferences.

The statement by Mr Mbalula is tantamount to interference and against the best practice of non interference in other countries internal affairs. 

Is Regime Change bad 

Since the birth of multi party democracy around the world , regimes have been changed with new ones coming on board. The case Zambia , the case of Malawi speaks volumes to regime change. 

Regime Change being a privilege of citizens , means that it can't be stopped by a foreigner. 

Over the years it has proved that changing regimes is healthier as political parties who do not work to transform the lives of people whom they are governing are changed. Those that' are brought can also be changed if they don't fulfil their promises . 

For Mr Mbalula to allege that they do not subscribe to regime change in Zimbabwe is very much wrong on many fronts . 

Lloyd Takawira is a villager from  Buhera 

Dear Politician !!!

By Lloyd Takawira
I write this letter , with so much sorrow and resentment to your flauntings . While you jostle theatrically to  have pictures taken with us and leave in your SUVs and  flamboyant vhuzis (cars) , have you thought of our predicaments.

While you leave for your state of the art flash houses in the posh low density suburbs , have you thought of our families who are struggling to put a simple meal on the table.

Deep down in the rural areas , as you leave in your posh cars , the dust from the graveled roads smoking us ,  some will be traveling over ten kilometers to and from school . Have you thought of us.

That year you visited our rural area you promised to build us a clinic alas it's been ages that promise hasn't been fulfilled yet you're here once again asking our parents to vote for you. To do what MR POLITICIAN . What evil is that .

Do you know that , the last time you visited us , Mai Jane died on her way to Chimukutu clinic which is over 20 kilometers from her village , Marutande . You never care for our basic needs because you think you're clever.

Can you imagine Mr Politician , that the same parents you're asking to vote for you , some of them were retrenched and never got a single pen owing to your actions .

Can you imagine that Mr Politician that our parents are going through serious challenges. Some of the challenges has left us destitutes . Sending us to school is nolonger an easy task , while you're kids are going overseas to learn.

Mr Politician can you self introspect!!!

Dear Politician l encourage you to read , "The cry of a child"
by  ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING

Yes Elizabeth never minced here words in her poem. She wrote a very piercing piece that l would want you to read , maybe you can change your mentality.

In case you have never come across her poem .
She said:
" Do ye hear the children weeping, O my brothers,
 Ere the sorrow comes with years ?
They are leaning their young heads against their mothers, —
  And that cannot stop their tears.

The young lambs are bleating in the meadows ;
 The young birds are chirping in the nest ;
The young fawns are playing with the shadows ;
 The young flowers are blowing toward the west—
But the young, young children, O my brothers,
They are weeping bitterly !
They are weeping in the playtime of the others,  In the country of the free."

Yes Mr Politician , l rest my case with a clarion call for you to desist from abusing us for selfie pictures . Address our plight Mr Politician.

Yours truly
The Child ( Zimbabwe)

TODAY IN HISTORY: Zimbabweans Remember 27 June 2008

By Lloyd Takawira 

With a " 100% total empowerment" campaign matra and a 27 June VaMugabe muoffice !!! 

Recounts of some of the horror memories of victims of the bloodbath that preceded what was a solo run by the late nongenarian Zanu PF party leader Robert Mugabe are mournful 

 "27 June !!! VaMugabe mu office!!! . Pamberi nehondo !!! Pasi nevatengesi " thunders the late Major Svoswe .

As the major sat down , then  rose , the feared Godfrey Nyikadzino he started to sing , with thunderous voice he sang : " Hondo here , hee hondo makunakuna hwiza hondo dzataigocha ... hee hee hondo " and the whole crowd bursts into singing and dancing . 

Young girls ululating while the youthies who had suddenly became comrades grinding the soil as dust gushes to skies . 

For the new converts , it's a wish for the soil to thaw you .

Holding a sjambok  , rose Patson Nyadza" Yasvika nguva yevaya vakadzoka mugwara rechimurenga , ngavamboita slogan tione" thundered Patson who had suddenly became a war veteran . 

By that time , a defeaning sound characterize the gathering . 

A gun shot breaks the silence as women mainly the elderly breaks into ululations presumably to cheer up Major Svoswe who was firing into the air . 

On election , day the Youths resembling the famous , " Imbumbule youths " who run amok under the doctorship of the late Burundi Pierre Nkuruziza ran through the communities singing war like songs 

With a disputed  and inconclusive election of March 29 2008 , it meant  an electoral  rerun was on the cards . However the harrowing and heinous events leading up to the June 27 presidential rerun brings vivid sad memories of a bad chapter to our country .

The late , Robert Mugabe who had lost the first round of election to  opposition MDC candidate the late Morgan Tsvangirai had set his eyes on returning the Presidency at whatever cost . 

Morgan Tsvangirayi  pulled out of the race  due to violence targeted against his supporters by state security agents , and Zanu PF party youths .

Each year on the 27th of June, Zimbabweans always remember the day and the memories are not rosy in any way as they are littered with sad pictures of tortured people as Mugabe sought to reverse the March presidential election result in which he was defeated by Tsvangirai.

 Mugabe would go on to claim victory and got sworn in before flying out to an African Union summit where he was told to sit down with Tsvangirai in what culminated in a government of national unit.

Even though, Mugabe negotiated with Tsvangirai and Mutambara, Zimbabweans still remember the events leading to 27 June as thousands of people were displaced, hundreds dead as soldiers and secret service agents were deployed across the country to reverse Mugabe’s electoral defeat.

As the world is still commemorating International day Against tourture and inhumane treatment , Zimbabweans have horror memories to recount.

tllyoyd@gmail.com 

Ongoing Demolitions. An Ethical Test Failure for Zim Local Government

 

By Lloyd Takawira 

Watching hopelessly as their source of livelihoods are being destroyed ,  one could not resist to drop some tears . Urbanites have endured endless torrid times from authorities who should be protecting them . However, for many Zimbabwean urbanites its suffer continue.

With an economy that was run down by decades of mismanagement, many Zimbabweans have been pushed to the informal economy as they try to ace a living from vending.

Local government, in a democratic state, is expected to be responsive to the needs of the people.  Since the local government is the primary delivery arm of a democratic state, it should provide effective and efficient local government service to the people, however for Zimbabwe, the case has been different. Personal self-interest have been subordinate to the public good in all circumstances.

The recent demolitions have exposed the rot in our local government system if not national. It must be noted that, high ethical values affect the performance of every organization. The question now is do we have ethical leaders both elected and appointed in Zimbabwe at every level of leadership. Do they even know the ethical values that they must uphold as public servants? The components (ethics and values) shape an individual’s character, as well as that of their organization (Omisore & Adeleke, 2015). However not for elites in Zimbabwe.

One is made to ask. Do these people have a reputation, do they even care for the next person, do they know that the  success of governance depends upon the conduct of themselves as public functionaries and what the public perceive about their conducts. I wonder what Mr Tafadzwa Muguti is thinking seeing so many people crying while their livelihoods have be destroyed.

Do these so called shefus of this world know that , as local government leaders they have an indispensable role to play in exacting ethical principles. In our case , the  absence of public minded leaders whose energies are not harnessed to organisational purposes is affecting the  quality of  local government service delivery (Dorasamy, 2010).  We have people who have sworn that as long as they live, there is stealing from the public coffers at whatever cost. We have people whose hearts have hardened to hard rock state because they are at the eating table.

It should be written in bold and caps that, leaders at local government level in Zimbabwe have failed the ethical test. One cannot allocate land for someone to operate , make that person pay for the space , all of a sudden disregard that , comes back to destroy the person livelihood . Even in the face of a court order in the case of Chitungwiza it could not stop demolitions to happen.

The ongoing demolition calls that for this country to self-introspect to say we need leaders who are willing to pass the ethical test and that ethical values have to be upheld by the leadership of local government, who have to create an organizational culture that directs a local government service institution to achieve its purpose.

For now , it’s the residents , civil society organizations and all interested parties that must come together to demand that :

1)Local government employees adopt an approach that can influence others to direct their actions toward the attainment of a clearly understood and well communicated ethical purpose. This shared vision and pursuit of ethical standards therefore, results in ethical behaviour guided by purpose- directed employees at the local government level.

2) Ethically-oriented local government that is not underpinned by a lack of established ethical behaviour because Unethical behaviour has a negative impact on effective and efficient local service delivery.

 Continued pooh pooing in our governance issues through unethical practices will continue to negatively affect the performance of these councils which have become bastardised entities   (Adegoroye, 2010). It is imperative that all local government functionaries upon accepting government employment recognize that they have a special duty to be open, fair and impartial in their dealings with society. (Yahya, 2006).  

For now it’s a clarion call for public servants especially those manning our councils to view ethics as choices requiring them to make decisions enabling them to lead an ethical life within the context of their relationships with others in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Cllrs Yes .Civil Servants & Chiefs No

By Lloyd Takawira 

There is a storm once again inthe land of multiple storms . A week rarely passes without controversy . Should we be called a land of controversy . 

Cdes and friends this time , the gatekeepers. The Cdes of entitlement (the stockholders of this country) (the more patriotic ones than others ) as they allege , are reportedly moving to force senior public sector workers such as senior council management , councillors and chiefs  to the famous Chitepo School of Ideology . Yes Cdes and friends , the one brother Tsenaz refused to attend gore riya ..... Brother Tsenaz said iwo ndiwo wangatonodzidzisa wanhu ikoko . 

Well because we are in the land of controversies . The issue of party state conflation has been a  one burning one . It has always been burning . 

Party state conflation . 

Zvinomboreiko ??? 

Party-State conflation are  acts or  misdeeds against the constitution  by  governing political parties of  "confusing"  the party and government as seperate entities 

The most important word is "confusing" . Here we are talking of intentional confusion . Kutoita souri rema zvako , asi uchitoita , uchitotyora mutemo seusingazive seusina hanya . Here I'm talking of wedu "Musangano wechibhakera" 

So the controversy is ??? 

Should a councillor attend his or her party school of ideology , the answer is an Unequivocal YES 

Should a council CEO , management ,  attend party ideological schools . The answer is a BIG No because  the Constitution of Zimbabwe clearly prohibits civil servants and senior employees of councils from being partisan. 

Should a chief , headman , village head be forced to attend a party school ideology . The answer is Big NO .Because  the law and basic principles of corporate governance require Civil servants  to be impartial, professional and focused  not the pursuit of toxic politics in the execution of their duties.

Party State Conflation of State is  the main reasons why this country has been hamstrung in the doldrums of poor service delivery , selective application of the law , toxic institutions which by operation of the country's supreme laws are supposed to operate independent . 

Over the years we have witnessed chiefs virtually becaming political commissar's of a political party contrary to what the Constitution stipulate . 

Until we have people who believe in the sancrosactness of the law and willing to abide by it's tenants in toto , Zimbabwe is going to continue sliding into the dustibins of shamelessness . 

How do we capture and ingrain our ideology into the hearts of many Zimbabweans ,  the question Zanu PF should be asking itself . Without force marching institutions which must be independent .

The answer is very simple . Be true to the values of liberation struggle . Development not Corruption , Empowerment not looting . Plurality not Conflation and capture . The list goes on on and on . #TheZimbabweWeWant 

#ZimbabweArise 

#ZimbabweFirst 

Extractive Policies In The Face of Covid-19. What’s For the Poor In 2021? By Lloyd Takawira

 Zimbabwe has endured a whooping umpty two decades of economic and political instability. Without a figment of imagining otherwise 2021 is promising to be more feverish coming from a hectic humpty-dumpty 2020 owing to the coronavirus induced shocks. While the government through its mouth piece, the ministry of Information, enablers, paid trolls (varakashi) tried   on several occasions to firefight by downplaying the Zimbabwe crises, no amount of fickle or deceptive speech can hoodwink the world that Zimbabwe has been in the doldrums for a long time owing to the “extractive” policies of the government. 

Zimbabwe has experienced several unprecedented economic, environmental and political shocks and stresses that have dented any hope as the political future remains uncertain and the country faces severe democratic deficits. The increasing level of muzzling of the democratic space through violating human rights, manipulating state institutions and suppressing dissenting voices has been one of the biggest undoing of the much touted second republic.

 The cancerous corruption scourge has remained endemic even to the extent of some in high offices stealing covid-19 funds at a critical juncture like this. More deplorable and shocking is that despite overwhelming evidence of pilferage of covid-19 funds, the  pilfers are walking scot-free while government critics such as Allan Moyo are languishing in prison.  While civil society space for policy dialogue has increased in recent years, the challenge remain with government insincerity and lack of trust on independent actors such as NGOs and other non-state actors thus we have seen even front line workers such as doctors subjected to obscenities and tastelessness of being labelled  “medical assassins”. 

The stinging stunting effects of the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) have grounded economies and is threatening to obliterate any hope of recovery especially with a government that is clueless on the way forward. To date hundreds have perished because of the coronavirus pandemic disease. However, there seems to nothing tangible from the government side to address the multiple quagmires effacing the nation. Some analysts are arguing that talk of a vaccine by the government are a sheer  figment of imagination , however it remains to be seen how the government is going to address the contentious issue of procuring vaccines . 

 The continued lockdown induced effects are already chewing up the most vulnerable in communities thus exacerbating the effects of poverty, food insecurity in Zimbabwe which have been resident for some time.  This situation has been exacerbated by changes in climate patterns, over both the short and longer terms. The current coronavirus crisis has caused a severe shocks especially to the urbanites such that million are in need of assistance.

Borrowing from scholars, Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson's, in the face of calamities what separates nations depends above all on the inclusiveness of economic and political institutions. In the case of Zimbabwe our biggest undoing has been "extractive" institutions as opposed to “inclusive" institutions in which many people have a say in political decision-making, as opposed to cases where a small group of people control political institutions and are unwilling to change and at least consult the people.

In the face of multiple predicaments, those in high offices have chosen to follow the destructive path of building “extractive" institutions the ones that permit them (elite) to rule over the poor without consulting the vulnerable. For example the continued shutdown measures which affects the most vulnerable are only announced short of due consideration of what will happen to the poor. 

We are where we are because of the incompetence, carefree approach to problems by our Government. Without beating by the bush political expediency, and insensitivity to the plight of the poor and sheer intransigence on the part of those who run this country has been our biggest undoing as a country. 

It is the hope of every suffering Zimbabwean that policies are inclusive and are considerate of the multiple shocks that have befallen people for some time, “THINK OF THE POOR” 

Platform for players

* 16-02-2020 Dialogue rantings attributed to ZANU PF Secretary for Administration, Obert Mpofu in one of the local tabloids clearly exposes ZANU PF's ego-centric and bullish attitude towards the very same political opponents they intend to dialogue with. Mpofu's bullish Polad ultimatum to the MDC Alliance only helps to raise alarm on what to expect from any dialogue with ZANU PF. Platform and players remain key ingredients to any meaningful dialogue. To his credit, President Nelson Chamisa has always reiterated that POLAD is a poisoned chalice hence it can never be an ideal platform for any meaningful dialogue. That all players currently involved in POLAD agrees to everything Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF further pulverizes the platform thereby rendering it a monologue. If the calls for dialogue are genuine, then it is only logical that those who disagree dialogue and clearly there is no need for various versions of ZANU PF at the same table. Why wasting time dialoguing with various but same versions of ZANU PF when the same results can be achieved by dialoguing with one led by Mnangagwa himself. Alternatively, why would Mnangagwa's ZANU PF want to dialogue with some black market opposition when it is clear even from the 2018 ZEC cooked results that it is Advocate Nelson Chamisa's MDC Alliance that warrants any form of dialogue if the country is to move forward. ZANU PF's insistence on a platform, POLAD which they created raises alarm on the dangers that lies ahead if ever MDC Alliance joins such dead end platform. Joining POLAD is akin to having a wrestling contest with a crocodile in water, its familiar surroundings. Who in their right senses can accede to such a political suicide? It is also important to track the background that led to the current situation which has led many a people to call for dialogue. It is a public secret that our problems emanate from a 2018 disputed political contest that gave birth to the legitimacy question. At the centre of that contestation is Emmerson Mnangagwa who subverted the will of the people by having an adulterous affair with the military through the gun on 01 August 2018. On the other hand is a People's President, Advocate Nelson Chamisa who has a social contract with the people to lead. The components determine the solution we obtain! We can not expect any meaningful results from a 'dialogue' between Mnangagwa and his puppets. Anything else without Nelson Chamisa is like expecting flies in their various forms to produce honey. #OneMillionCampaign #YouthVoices4Change *Stephen Sarkozy Chuma* _MDC Alliance Youth Assembly  Spokesperson_

The predicament of a rural farmer .

By Lloyd Takawira 

At first glance this towering , conical peak Dorotoma mountain may remind you of the famous mountain in the mould of Kilimanjalo , or the famous Japanese mountains .

South of Dorotoma is a resettlement area which the Chigwede's have been residing for decades . 

Its that time again , a rapturous thunder bolted acampanied by a zigzagged lighting signaling the rain season has just arrived. 

The Waruma village just like many communities around the country have no cattle due to the ravaging foot and mouth disease which abliterated heards. 

All the years , the Waruma community prided themselves as the best farmers . However , this time its a going to be a hectic farming season. 

While they have been educated by the local Agritex officer , who has been helping them on the Pfumvudza program , the community has not shown interest in the concept arguing that , the program is archaic , old fashioned and labor intense .

For headman Chigwede Waruma , life hasn't been rossey as his remaing two donkeys were taken away by the Dutavanhu family after his son Charles Chigwede Waruma jrn impregnanted one of the Dutavanhu's daughter . 

As respected people in the community , they have to brew some beer and call the neighbors who have cattle to come and help them plough . 

Here is the predicament . The whole village is bearing the same brunt .Mombe dzakafa nechirwere .

" We are in a fix my son ," says Muzeza Chigwede Waruma snr with watery eyes . 

The two are seated underneath a big muhacha tree which is some few meters away from their yard .

"yanaya ka baba , tichadii*The rain season is upon us father , what are we going to do" the young Chigwede Waruma said in a low tone voice while chewing african bubble gum (dohwe).

Chigwede srn is mending his 1978 Ox plough which he bought in colonial Ankledon now Chivhu where he was a farm worker .

Chigwede senior , in a dejected voice replied, " my son l have never seen this in my entire life . We discussed this issue with your mother . I was thinking we can brew some beer and call our neighbors to help us . The problem as you know its only Bhalubha and Mutsvakabeva who have cattle . The rest are like us " 

As they are discussing their predicament , Titus a longtime friend to the Waruma arrives . 

" The heavens have smiled on us simboti , " said Titus with an exuberant voice 

He continued , "l knew with the heatwave that , heavy downpours are nearer" said Titus as he rests his buttocks on a fiber stool 

" My friend , we are happy that the heavens have opened on us . However , we are in a fix . All our cattles gone . When l remember of busvumani aaa l cry at times " said Titus as he sniffles .

The story , of the Waruma community is heartbreaking . It represent the predicament that many rural communities are grappling with . 

Most rural communities rely on draught power . However because of the cattle diseases that swept across the country most communities were left without even single cattle . 

While the government has been singing the Pfumvudza hymm . Research has shown that most people objected against , arguing the program is labor intense . 

For some , the rains have been a blessing in disguise while for some , its a catch 22 situation .

Beer Talk With Lloyd Takawira : The story of Njube Zeze

The weather was magnificent . A clear blue sunny day , with sharply etched white clouds in the sky . The perfect Zimbabwean summer . And so hot in that early morning . The heat made everything slow and sensual . And it was totally un- Hararian , as the sun scotchingly stamped its presence for the day .

On my way to the capital city Harare from my hood St Mary's, aboard a Zupco bound Trip Trans bus popular with its inscription  "Senior Actor"  above the bumper and the driver popular with passagers as "bus ra gunners solder" . 

As the bus whizzed lacadezically to town , the heat felt delicious  .

Opposite my seat sat a demunitive youngman fit as a fiddle . His head is bandaged , to which l suspect he might have been involved in accident . However ,as l relooked at him . He was a familiar face . I suddenly flicked my mind back .This is Zeze mumwe wevakomana . He is thief and probably lucky run out a few days ago and was beaten , l thought to myself.

"Eee makuruwani " , he said nodding at me in a clear sign that familiar faces have met . As usual l nodded back with a smile that l have been greated with respect from the boys in town  as he was familiar , however not for the good things.

If you want cheaper gadgets , and electricals , get in touch with Zeze , ndovakomana pataundi , as they  say it  in our dirty dusty ghetto streets .

This is Zeze l knew him from the hood , some popularly call him Njube , some Zeze and some call him Sundowns for his love of  South Africa's biggest football giant Memolady Sundowns. Moreso he usually wear the  famous  Sundowns yellow Jersey or the black and white striped Highlanders jersey .

Knowing him and his errands , l quickly blinked out  from the hands of maphus and alerted myself .

Watching him  trickingly with a sideview , Njube swang one leg easily over the other .He was holding a bobbed grey bottle drink which he sipped . "Makuruwani , take a sip " , he said handing the bottle drink to me . l profusely refused . " Thanks mukoma , its still early , toswera ta lock tikatadza kushanda " l said handing him back the bottle drink .

 Seating on the same seat to Njube are two middle aged young woman , beautiful , class and elegant .

 By my side is a fine woman , tall thin , blond , blue-eyed , with high cheek-bones .She whispered to me . " Do you know this guy in blue worksuit " l nodded in agreement. 

Just like the famous evesdropper  Mbuya Chekuche from my rural Buhera  she whispered again , " atora phone ya that lady ari paside pake " . Passively ,  l replied to her , " just pretend as if you have not seen it imbavha idzi unobaiwa nebanga ukataura" l said to  the lady whom from her expression , looked not happy and contend with how l had brushed aside her story.

As the bus reached the famous  road block from Chitungwiza , "Delpot Boarder Post" ,  nicknamed from the strickness and thorough scrutiny of  travel documents by security details manning the road block .

One of the ladies who was sharing the seat with Zeze , whom l discovered at that instance was a solder , was the first to stand up as she walk towards the door with rest of us going out for routine documentation check . 

" phone yangu , aaa handisikuona phone yangu ," she said to her colleague in a  high-toned voice . 

Suddenly commotion ensued in the bus . The bus driver, who also happened to be a solder , jumped from his driver's seat and said ," munhu wese kana phone isina kubuda mucharowa zvekuti hamusati mamboona . Everyone out of the bus , leave all your bags and purses inside , outside lie down all of you ." he said .

As we made our way out of the bus , a gigantic dark skinned solder  in a red barret spliffing his cigger , who happen to be part of the security details who were manning the Delpot road block said , " mukanyatsorohwa munoburitsa phone . You steal phone yemu solder " he said with a frightening hished voice.

Suddenly l knew that the beautiful young ladies and many of the passagers were actually security details . As we made our way out , Njube the class thief in front us did the unthinkable .

Infront of Njube was a tall thin fine looking gentleman well built in his 

late thirties l presume , who was donning a blue worksuit inscribed , "Delta". 

My seatmate , who had earlier told me about the phone whispered again to me for l had not seen anything , " your guy akanda phone mu side pocket ye that guy infront of him , did you notice ". 

 Shivering and preponderating on the impending thorough beating from the angry security details,   l could not utter back a word,  as we made our way out .

For  the class Njube , two young girls had been watching him . He  giggled and wrinkled his eyes ostensibly to silence the two beauties .Outside the bus , the security details searched everyone .

 Life is incredibly unfair at times . The guy whom Zeze classically flinged the mobile phone was beaten and punished . As he was made to roll up and down . One of the two ladies who  had seen how Zeze had trickly passed the phone unknowingly to the guy whom the phone was found with , stood up . 

"Officer , im sorry , the guy you are beating is innocent . As you ordered us out of the bus a certain guy trickly dropped this phone in his pocket". Suddenly it became clear that a sizeable number of passengers have seen how the classy Njube had classically done his job. 

"Ndeupi munhu wacho , " ordered the angry looking female solder whose phone had been stolen .As  the girl looked around to point Zeze . The classical Njube had DISAPPEARED .

Lloyd Takawira is Freelance Writer, Blogger, Research Consultant . He can be contacted on +263771923115 / tllyoyd@gmail.com 

Are We Drifting Towards One Party State

By Lloyd Takawira

The year 2020 has been more problematic in the history of Zimbabwe with widespread reports of systematic and escalating violations of human rights in Zimbabwe under the regime of President Emmarson Mnangagwa and his rulling , ZANU-PF party .

Human rights organisations such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and plethora of international governments have voiced their concerns against the government of Zimbabwe which has become increasingly authoritarian under the cover of lockdown measures .

Rule By Statutes

The rule by statutes has seen violation on freedom of movement and residence, freedom of assembly and the protection of the law being constricted and trembled upon by the government.

For the past six months , there has been an onslaught on the media with journalists being wantonly beaten, arrested and detained on flimsy charges .The opposition, civil society activists, and human rights defenders have also been under siege .

Exstingishing Opposition

There is no doubt that , the government is moving towards disemboweling the opposition .

The visible government hand in the ongoing factional infighting pitting the various Movement for Democratic Change formations is clear testimony that , the government want a free race . A race in which the alternative voice is desembered

Banning By-Elections

Under sortorial scrutiny , the purported banning of all by-elections by Vice President Constantine Chiwenga who doubles as the Minister of Health (Chiwenga) through a Statutory Instrument is a clear testimony that the regime in Harare is working towards a clear path to a defacto "one party state".

Dear reader , there is no doubt that the banning of by-elections with the rulling Zanu PF party itself clearly on the ground contacting its restructuring exercise as well as contacting its primary elections in areas to which by-elections are due is a clear testimony to show that we are fast approaching a one party state.

The government celebrations on the recall of opposition members of parliament vindicates those who argues that , those who are involved in the chopping of members of parliament enjoys messianic blessings from the rulling Zanu PF party under the guise of constitutionalism.

The legality of the minister of health banning by-elections is questionable . One legal expert wrote that , the move by Vice President Constantine Chiwenga violates the Constitution of Zimbabwe

The Unpatriotic act.

The government in its bid to cover up rights abuses said it was going to consider the principal framework of a proposed law (patriotic act) that will criminalise and impose stiff penalties for campaigning against the country through private correspondence with foreign governments and harming national interests

However , it should be argued that the determination of ones patriotism is questionable . The actions of the involving itself in corruption , externalization of millions of dollars by the rulling elites is a complete disservice to the nation .

It can be argued that the rulling Zanu PF party has always been on an unpatriotic campaign to which they are accusing others .

Dear reader , the patriotic act will amongst other draconian statutes will pile more to the draconian laws that are already on the cards which are meant to constrict opposition and declaring the country a de facto one party state.

It should be postulated that the rule by statutes has been a culculated ploy to increasingly initiate an automatic autocratic regime under the guise of mantaining law and order.

Dear reader , my take succinctly posits that , the patriotic act and constitutional amendment no2 and the banning of by-elections and among many other statutes are all leading to a defacto one party state .

There is no doubt that , our government fear alternative voices. Its penchants in having an achaic one party state project which is delectably underway will in itself be a de-campaigning route in the face of the international community.

Lloyd Takawira is a Freelance Writer , Blogger, Research Consultant. Can be contacted on +263771923115 /

tllyoyd@gmail.com