Itai Mazire

The ZANU PF Makoni District Coordinating Committee (DCC) has accused the party’s Provincial Chairperson, Albert Nyakuedzwa, of looting food hampers and thousands of litres of fuel meant for an empowerment rally to be hosted by Dr Paul Tungwarara, in a scandal that has shaken the ruling party’s provincial structures.

The DCC alleges that Nyakuedzwa, who is also the Member of Parliament for Makoni South, diverted food hampers and about 6 500 litres of fuel mobilised for the Dr Paul Tungwarara empowerment rally, which had been scheduled for last week.

According to the accusations, Nyakuedzwa allegedly compelled fuel supplier Petro Trade to inflate a fuel invoice to 11 000 litres, despite fuel worth only 3 500 litres reportedly being used for rally logistics. The remaining balance is alleged to have been unlawfully taken.

The alleged theft is said to have disrupted preparations for the rally, which was intended to distribute food hampers and support empowerment initiatives targeting party supporters and vulnerable communities.

Dr Paul Tungwarara is a prominent businessman and philanthropist who has been spearheading empowerment programmes under the ruling party’s banner. These initiatives include the distribution of food hampers, fuel and seed packs aimed at cushioning communities against economic hardship while strengthening grassroots mobilisation.

The programmes have attracted large crowds across several provinces, making the Makoni rally a high-profile event within party circles.

Party officials say the alleged diversion of resources has angered grassroots members, with growing calls for an urgent investigation and possible disciplinary action.

Nyakuedzwa had not responded to the allegations by the time of publication, and provincial party leaders were yet to issue an official statement.

Takudzwa Karowangoro

ZANU PF has introduced a new campaign programme called Politics Mubhazi, aimed mainly at young people and first-time participants in political discussions.

The initiative is designed to encourage youth involvement and help the party expand its support base.

The first Politics Mubhazi tour will take place tomorrow. A bus will leave the Causeway Office at 8:00 AM and travel to Murehwa. During the journey, participants will engage in political discussions and interactive sessions.

The trip is free of charge, with food and refreshments provided on the bus. After the programme, the bus will return to Harare later the same day.

The event will be hosted by Taurai Kandishaya, with Munashe Mtutsa as the guest speaker.

ZANU PF Mashonaland East Provincial Chairperson and Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Cde Daniel Garwe, has called upon Zimbabweans to set aside political differences and unite for national development.

During a recent tour of Mrewa North Constituency, Minister Garwe distributed roller meal to 1,500 families in the area, aimed at providing crucial support during the farming season.

This initiative aligns with the Second Republic’s “Vision 2030,” which seeks to improve the living conditions of all Zimbabweans.

Hon Garwe emphasized the importance of collaboration in the province and the country as a whole.

“This distribution is a gesture from President Emmerson Mnangagwa to ensure that no family goes hungry as we work towards a prosperous future,” said Hon Garwe. He urged the community to focus not only on agricultural productivity but also on the values of unity and cooperation essential for the country’s growth.

“The time for campaigning has passed and the time for labor has arrived. We must be a nation that is united for development,” he said while engaging with local stakeholders and community members.

The distribution of mealie meal comes as part of a broader government effort to create a social safety net for families during the farming season. Hon. Garwe reiterated that the government is committed to closing the infrastructure gap through critical projects like dam construction and road rehabilitation.

“There is a time for politics and a time for work. Right now, our hands should be on the tools. We are not in an election season, let us focus on development that improves the lives of our people,” he said.

Praising the local leadership for their commitment to government-led programs, Garwe insisted that maintaining peace and stability is crucial for progress. “The bedrock of progress is peace. We must lead by example in our pursuit of national development,” said Hon Garwe.

This outreach program by the ZANU PF Mashonaland East leadership reflects the government’s dedication to ensuring that developmental targets are met at the grassroots level. Hon. Garwe’s initiative demonstrates that unity and collective effort are vital in realizing the aspirations outlined in Vision 2030.