By Farirai Machivenyika
HARARE – President Robert Mugabe yesterday swore in new Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs Shuvai Mahofa and new Deputy Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Monica Mutsvangwa at a ceremony held at State House.
The ceremony was attended by the First Lady Grace Mugabe, several Government officials and family members of the two ministers.
Speaking after taking her oath of office and loyalty to the country, Minister Mahofa said her elevation was a result of support from the people of Masvingo Province.
“This is a result of the support I have from the people of Masvingo because I am a hard working and straight forward person. I was faithful to them and I will do my best to serve the people,” she said.
Minister Mahofa said her priority was to deal with land issues in the province.
“Masvingo has problems with land and that is what I want to deal with immediately. We have issues with Tongaat Hulett that is not assisting the community and was said to be protected by former Minister Kudakwashe Bhasikiti.
“I will also look at the issue of Bikita Minerals, which is also refusing to relinquish shares to the community alleging that former minister Dzikamai Mavhaire has shares,” she said.
The minister added that she would also investigate allegations that Bhasikiti was vandalising property at his farm in anticipation that it would be repossessed.
Mutsvangwa thanked the President on her appointment.
“I am very grateful to the President and very humbled. I will try to do my best and that whatever I do it will benefit the people,” she said.
Mutsvangwa said that her appointment was because of her loyalty to Zanu-PF and the country despite attempts by former Presidential Affairs Minister Didymus Mutasa to sideline her in Manicaland Province.
Mutsvangwa replaced Supa Mandiwanzira who is now Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Courier Services while Minister Mahofa takes over from Bhasikiti who was fired for belonging his perceived support of former Vice President Joice Mujuru who was accused of plotting to assassinate President Mugabe.
Mujuru and 16 other ministers and deputy ministers were fired for taking part in the plot to oust the President. The Herald
