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Murape calls Marriot a “corrupt and cunning clueless old man who has killed Dynamos”

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Staff Reporter
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Former Dynamos captain Murape Murape (Picture via Facebook - Murape Murape)
Former Dynamos captain Murape Murape (Picture via Facebook - Murape Murape)

HARARE – Popularly known as King Mura or Monya for Hire during his playing days, Murape Murape is regarded as one of Dynamos FC’s living legends having started playing for the Glamour Boys during the late 90s.

He commands respect from the Dynamos family for his years of captaincy, leading the club to four consecutive league titles from 2011 to 2014 under Kalisto Pasuwa.

But the outspoken legend is now running out of patience with how his beloved club is being run.

Murape continues to launch a series of scathing attacks on Dynamos’ majority shareholder, Bernard Marriot, who he blames for the club’s current decline.

Under Marriot’s leadership, Dynamos, once a dominant force in Zimbabwean football, now find themselves battling relegation.

Murape’s latest frustration came early Friday morning when he posted on Facebook, revealing some of the behind-the-scenes details about the club’s handling of ex-star player Elton Chikona.

According to Murape, Chikona was denied a golden opportunity to join Finnish top-flight side SJK in 2023.

The club had offered the player a two-year contract, set to run until October 2025, without requiring any trials.

At the time, the club was competing in the UEFA Europa League.

However, Dynamos refused to release him, effectively killing the move.

What makes matters worse for Murape is that Chikona has now joined local side TelOne, considering it as a step down.

Venting on his Facebook page, Murape didn’t hold back, calling Marriot a “corrupt and cunning clueless old man who has killed Dynamos.”

He wrote: “I have mixed feelings about seeing Elton Chikona join TelOne from Dynamos. He could be playing in Europe if it weren’t for the jealousy, greed, and DeMarriot’s bad leadership.

“The decision to pursue a trial in Spain instead of signing with SJK in Finland seems to have been driven by the personal interests of the Dynamos executive, rather than what was best for the club or Elton’s career.

“It’s unfortunate when decisions are made with ulterior motives like that. To make matters worse, SJK, who were playing in the Europa League, had offered Elton a 2-year contract without trials. That shows how much faith they had in his abilities.

“What’s even more frustrating is that I initiated this deal in good faith, for both the club and the player, using my international contacts. That’s what makes this outcome so disappointing.

“What a difference it could’ve made for his career! I wish Elton all the best at TelOne, and hopefully, it’s a great fit for him.”

The Glamour Boys are currently in crisis.

They are languishing in the relegation zone, with real fears they could drop out of the PSL come end of the 2025 season that is if they continue to underperform.

High Court blocks Billy Rautenbach from controversial land grab in Goromonzi

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Staff Reporter
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The courtroom, filled with war veterans, erupted in relief and joy following the verdict.
The courtroom, filled with war veterans, erupted in relief and joy following the verdict.

HARARE – High Court judge Justice Regis Dembure has blocked the eviction of indigenous farmers from Springs Farm in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East Province, declaring the withdrawal of their offer letters grossly unreasonable, irrational, and illogical.

The ruling comes amidst controversy surrounding the farm’s allocation to Muller Conrad “Billy” Rautenbach’s Marimba Residential Properties Limited, a move widely perceived as dubious.

Rautenbach, an ally of Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, was found to be in possession of Springs Farm’s title deeds even before the High Court case commenced, strongly suggesting underhanded dealings.

Justice Dembure’s decision to overturn Land and Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka’s eviction order was partly based on procedural flaws.

The judge found that the minister had failed to submit valid opposing papers to the court. The opposing application filed on the minister’s behalf by the ministry’s permanent secretary was deemed defective and thus a nullity.

Representing the farmers, prominent lawyer Lovemore Madhuku successfully argued that the permanent secretary lacked written authority to represent the minister.

Madhuku also cited a precedent from August 2024, where the High Court prevented Minister Masuka from arbitrarily withdrawing an offer letter from Chegutu businessman Christopher Rukawo, who had extensively developed his farm and maintained a herd of over 500 cattle.

Justice Dembure highlighted the inconsiderate manner in which the minister withdrew the offer letters, emphasizing that the farmers had occupied the land for an extended period, relying on it as their primary source of livelihood.

The judge also acknowledged the significant improvements made by the farmers on the land, noting that some had even entered into joint venture partnerships that began in 2019 and are set to run until 2029.

The courtroom, filled with war veterans, erupted in relief and joy following the verdict.

The case was widely viewed as a crucial test of Zimbabwe’s commitment to upholding property rights, ensuring transparency and accountability, supporting its land reform program, and demonstrating the political will to combat corruption.

The circumstances surrounding the seizure of Springs Farm and its allocation to Rautenbach had previously raised concerns, with indications of corruption and manipulation.

These suspicions intensified when it came to light that the multi-millionaire businessman had been issued the land’s deed of transfer on June 5, 2025, before the High Court heard the matter.

Farmers voiced significant contention over the government’s role in facilitating the seizure of Springs Farm and the adjacent Stuhm Farm by Marimba Residential Properties Limited.

The reason for this transfer was to compensate the company for land it purportedly lost in Harare, after failing to remove a group of residents, labeled as Zanu-PF supporters, from Aspindale Park.

Authorities proceeded to compensate Marimba Residential Properties Limited for this “lost” land at the expense of productive local farmers, despite a High Court ruling on March 25, 2019, which explicitly stated that the company was not the rightful owner of the Aspindale Park land.

Trump diagnosed with vein condition after ankle swelling raises concerns

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Staff Reporter
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Washington D.C., USA - September 4 2019: Close-up waist-up portrait shot of Donald Trump speaking on the phone sitting in a chair in the Oval Office of the White House — Photo by Tennessee via DepositPhotos.com
Washington D.C., USA - September 4 2019: Close-up waist-up portrait shot of Donald Trump speaking on the phone sitting in a chair in the Oval Office of the White House — Photo by Tennessee via DepositPhotos.com

WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a chronic vein condition, the White House announced Thursday, following speculation about photos that showed bruising on his hand.

According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump recently experienced leg swelling and underwent a thorough medical examination, including a vascular study.

Leavitt explained that the bruising on his hand was consistent with tissue damage from frequent handshakes, combined with his use of aspirin, which is part of a standard cardiovascular prevention plan.

At 79 years old, Trump has often spoken about his good health and has called himself “the healthiest president that’s ever lived.”

Doctors identified Trump’s condition as chronic venous insufficiency, which happens when veins in the legs don’t effectively return blood to the heart, causing swelling as blood pools in the lower legs.

Leavitt noted that this is a common issue, especially for people over 70, and said there was no sign of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease. All his test results were within normal ranges.

The White House stated a full medical report will be shared with reporters.

Speculation about Trump’s health grew after photos showed his legs looking swollen during the FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey on July 13.

Other images from earlier this week showed bruises on his hands as he met Bahraini Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the White House.

A photo showing the president with a bruised hand was taken during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron back in February.

The appearance of his swollen legs and bruises led to online speculation and rumors that he might be dealing with an undisclosed illness.

After his annual physical examination in April, White House physician Sean Barbabella reported that Trump has “cognitive and physical health.”

When Trump was sworn in for his second term in January, he was 78 years and seven months old, making him the oldest person ever inaugurated as president of the United States.

‘Criminal in chief’ Ramaphosa will die in jail if he lives to 80,’ – Prince Mashele

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Staff Reporter
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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (Picture via Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) of South Africa)
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (Picture via Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) of South Africa)

SOUTH AFRICA – Political analyst Prince Mashele has expressed his view that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be remembered as one of the least effective presidents in post-apartheid South Africa.

During an interview on the Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh podcast, Mashele criticized Ramaphosa, referring to him as the ‘criminal in chief’ leading a ‘criminal organization,’ in the African National Congress (ANC).

Mashele emphasized his belief that Ramaphosa’s presidency will be labeled as ineffective, while also addressing former President Jacob Zuma’s legacy as the most criminal.

Mashele accused Ramaphosa of neglecting his leadership responsibilities in response to the revelations and allegations made by KZN police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in a press briefing on July 6, 2025.

He argued that as the president, Ramaphosa receives daily intelligence briefings and therefore cannot claim ignorance, dismissing the need for a commission of inquiry as ‘absolute nonsense.’

Mashele highlighted what he sees as a compromised relationship between Ramaphosa and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, alleging that they are ‘partners in crime’ due to their shared involvement in the CR17 campaign.

According to Mashele, their involvement in the campaign led to the flow of ‘dirty money,’ which he believes has hindered Ramaphosa’s ability to take firm action against Mchunu.

No handouts: Zimbabwe govt draws line on medical aid for citizens abroad

By
Nyashadzashe Ndoro
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Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi

HARARE – The Government of Zimbabwe, through Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, has articulated its policy on healthcare provision for its citizens residing abroad, stating a primary focus on domestic health initiatives before extending comprehensive medical aid to the diaspora.

This position, outlined during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, initiated a debate among Members of Parliament regarding the state’s responsibilities toward its citizens in foreign lands, particularly those facing challenges accessing medical care in South Africa.

Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Mbizo MP Corban Madzivanyika raised concerns about challenges faced by Zimbabweans in South Africa in accessing basic medical care and inquired about the government’s potential role in covering medical bills for these citizens.

In his response, Ziyambi articulated that the government’s immediate focus is on establishing a National Health Insurance within Zimbabwe, stating, “charity begins at home.”

He indicated that any extension of comprehensive medical aid to citizens who migrated “of their own volition” would be considered only if a “surplus” became available after domestic needs were met.

The Minister clarified that while Zimbabwean diplomatic missions would offer assistance to those facing “dire need and life-threatening condition” to stabilise them for a return to Zimbabwe, the government does not maintain a policy of providing ongoing medical insurance for all citizens living abroad.

He stated that those who migrated did so “to work and not to look for handouts.”

These remarks prompted a point of order from another opposition legislator Shakespeare Hamauswa, who questioned whether the government’s stance implied that citizens abroad were considered “less important,” particularly in light of their substantial remittances to Zimbabwe.

Data from Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube indicates that diaspora remittances significantly contribute to the nation’s foreign currency inflows, with projections for 2024 and 2025 exceeding US$2.4 billion annually.

Minister Ziyambi stated that while these remittances are vital for foreign currency supply to relatives, they are not directly channeled into government coffers for public service allocation.

He reiterated that the primary responsibility for the national budget lies with citizens residing within Zimbabwe.

“I would like to start by explaining clearly to say, if people go abroad to work, the Minister of Finance, as he will be presenting his budget says we have remittances from the diaspora of such and such amount, he is not simply saying the funds are directed to the Government’s coffers.”

“What he is simply saying is that the foreign currency that is being brought in is for foreign direct supply. So, if we have those funds which are directed to your relatives, whenever we will be doing the exchange rate, we ensure that we can buy goods from abroad,” Ziyambi stated.

University of Zimbabwe students win reprieve after protesting for lecturers’ rights

By
Nyashadzashe Ndoro
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Lecturers at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) have intensified their strike action

HARARE – The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has lifted the suspensions of six students who were disciplined for demonstrating in solidarity with striking lecturers with the institution stating that it “reconsidered its position” but issued a warning against future behavior deemed to threaten the institution’s “reputation and integrity.”

The six students, identified as Narshon Kohlo, Blessing Mtisi, Nodesha Maingehama, Tafadzwa Katsande, Tawana Hove, and Tariro Mtukura, are members of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU), UZ Chapter.

They were initially suspended in May 2025 after organising a protest on campus demanding a resolution to an industrial action by lecturers that commenced on April 16.

In individual letters dated July 9, 2025, University Registrar Munyaradzi Madambi confirmed the lifting of the suspensions and the withdrawal of disciplinary matters.

The letters expressed the university’s hope that the students had “atoned” for their behaviour and anticipated they would “desist from engaging in behaviour that may put the University into disrepute.”

The letters also instructed the Manager of Examinations and Certification to reactivate the students’ E-mhare accounts and release their results, and advised other departments to facilitate their return to studies.

“Please be advised that the University has reconsidered its position and decided to lift your suspension from the University of Zimbabwe and also withdraw the Student Disciplinary matter which had previously been levelled against you.

“It is sincerely hoped that you have atoned for your behaviour, which seriously threatens the integrity and reputation of the University. We anticipate that you desist from engaging in behaviour that may put the University into disrepute,” Madambi stated.

Opposition politician Gift Ostallos Siziba described them as a “glaring manifestation of administrative injustice,” alleging the university was acting as an extension of Zanu-PF’s authoritarianism.

Trade union leader Obert Masaraure criticised the government’s use of “repressive ordinances” to silence dissent.

Pride Mkono, a former ZINASU president who was also previously suspended from UZ in 2011 and expelled in 2012 for similar activism, voiced concerns that the university’s actions reflect a recurring trend of suppressing student activism in Zimbabwe.

In a “think piece,” Mkono highlighted Ordinance 30 of 1985 and Section 8 of the University of Zimbabwe Act as regulatory tools with “vague language and authoritarian scope” that are used to suppress dissent.

Mkono argued that these provisions often contradict the 2013 Constitution of Zimbabwe, specifically Sections 58 (freedom of association), 59 (freedom to demonstrate and petition), 60 (freedom of conscience), 69 (right to a fair hearing), and 70 (rights of accused persons).

He cited Section 2(1) of the Constitution, which states that any law inconsistent with the Constitution is invalid. Mkono detailed how Ordinance 30, Rule 3.1.3, which prohibits “disrupting” administrative work, could criminalize peaceful protests.

He also pointed to Section 8(3)(d) of the Act, empowering the Vice-Chancellor to ban students indefinitely for “disorderly conduct” without a test of necessity or proportionality.

Mkono, further, criticised Section 8(3)(f) of the Act for allowing the Vice-Chancellor to dissolve student unions without judicial oversight, and Ordinance 30, Rule 3.3.1, for holding students collectively responsible for group actions unless they publicly dissociate.

He also noted that Ordinance 30, Rule 4.2.3, permits disciplinary proceedings in absentia, which he argued violates the right to a fair hearing. Mkono highlighted Ordinance 30, Rule 3.1.4, which penalises conduct “harmful to the University’s interests,” as impermissibly vague.

Mkono also stated that Ordinance 30, formulated in 1985, reflects a colonial administrative culture and called for its reform and alignment with the 2013 Constitution to uphold democratic values and academic freedom.

He urged parliamentarians who are UZ alumni, current students, and civil society to challenge these laws through legislative amendments and judicial review.

Tino Kadewere linked with move away from FC Nantes, eyeing switch to Greece

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Staff Reporter
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Zimbabwean striker Tino Kadewere joined FC Nantes permanently following the expiry of his contract with Lyon (Picture via Instagram - @tinokadewere)
Zimbabwean striker Tino Kadewere joined FC Nantes permanently following the expiry of his contract with Lyon (Picture via Instagram - @tinokadewere)

Zimbabwean international forward Tino Kadewere is reportedly on his way out of French Ligue 1 club FC Nantes, with Greek Super League side Aris Thessaloniki emerging as his potential destination.

According to French outlet L’Équipe, Kadewere is among several players that Nantes are looking to offload ahead of the 2025/26 French Ligue 1 campaign.

The 28-year-old joined Nantes from Olympique Lyon.

Initially, he joined on loan in January 2024, before completing a permanent move in July 2024 on a free transfer.

However, his stint at the club has been hampered by injuries, resulting in a slump in his form.

Kadewere managed just four goals in 28 appearances.

A move to Greece could offer the former Le Havre striker a fresh start and an opportunity to revive his career.

ZACC confirm raiding Highlanders offices amid suspected misuse of funds

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Staff Reporter
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Highlanders Sports Club (Club House) in Bulawayo
Highlanders Sports Club (Club House) in Bulawayo

BULAWAYO – Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) officials on Thursday, surprisingly raided Highlanders FC offices amid suspected misuse of funds and other cases of misconduct by certain club officials.

Bosso’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Kindman Ndlovu confirmed the visit to Sunday News.

According to the publication, ZACC has “launched inquiries into alleged irregularities involving player transfer deals and the management of club funds.

“The surprise visit has so far left club officials tight-lipped about the scope and implications of the investigation.

“While details remain scarce, sources suggest ZACC is scrutinising several transactions that have raised concerns among internal stakeholders and worried fans.”

ZACC spokesperson Simiso Mlevu confirmed the anti graft body received a formal report and was looking into the matter.

“ZACC confirms receiving a report of a case of corruption involving Highlanders Football Club, and investigations are ongoing.

“However, we cannot divulge any further details at the moment,” said. Mlevu.

There is chaos brewing within the Bosso camp with serious allegations of ghost workers on the club’s payroll.

The situation was said to have prompted the team’s unofficial sponsor, Sakunda Holdings, to summon the club’s hierarchy for a round table meeting in an effort to understand what’s really going on.

Adding to the turmoil, questions were raised about a senior board member who is believed to have misused club funds to cover unexplained hotel bills.

Another concerning issue is that an executive member stands accused of awarding himself a medical tender, reportedly directing all injured players to a hospital facility where he is employed.

Historic win for Hadebe as Cincinnati beat Messi’s Inter Miami 3-0 to keep MLS title hopes alive

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Staff Reporter
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Zimbabwe international Teenage Hadebe who plays for FC Cincinnati and Lionel Messi who stars for Inter Miami (Pictures via X - @hadebe_teenage and Bryan Berlin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons)
Zimbabwe international Teenage Hadebe who plays for FC Cincinnati and Lionel Messi who stars for Inter Miami (Pictures via X - @hadebe_teenage and Bryan Berlin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons)

Zimbabwe international Teenage Hadebe has made history. The 29-year-old defender became the first Zimbabwean player to feature in a team that has defeated one with Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and World Cup champion.

Hadebe’s club, FC Cincinnati, delivered a resounding 3-0 victory over Messi’s Inter Miami at TQL Stadium, keeping their MLS 2025 title ambitions alive.

Cincinnati’s victory came as a response to last weekend’s disappointing derby defeat to title contenders Columbus Crew, despite they had taken a 2-0 lead.

Following the victory, Cincinnati remain second on the Eastern Conference table, just one point behind leaders Philadelphia Union, who edged CF Montréal 2-1.

It was 20-year-old American forward Gerardo Valenzuela who set the tone, opening the scoring in the 16th minute.

Then Cincinnati’s talisman, Evander da Silva Ferreira did his magic.

Evander took over in the second half with a brilliant brace, finding the net in the 50th and 70th minutes to seal the victory.

Hadebe, who is still recovering from a recent fitness setback, was introduced in the 62nd minute for 40-year-old veteran striker Kei Kamara.

This was eight minutes before Evander scored the third goal.

His introduction as Cincinnati’s first substitute when it was 2-0, was a tactical move aimed at consolidating the lead.

The former Kaizer Chiefs defender played a composed cameo role as Cincinnati recorded one of their most impressive wins of the season, handing Inter Miami one of their worst defeats in 2025.

Senzo Meyiwa’s brother demands arrest of ‘corrupt’ top cop who fabricated evidence

By
Thando Kanye
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Sifiso Meyiwa, the brother of slain Bafana Bafana star Senzo Meyiwa (Picture via YouTube - Newzroom Afrika)
Sifiso Meyiwa, the brother of slain Bafana Bafana star Senzo Meyiwa (Picture via YouTube - Newzroom Afrika)

SOUTH AFRICA – Sifiso Meyiwa, the brother of slain Bafana Bafana star Senzo Meyiwa, has called for the arrest of Brigadier Bongani Gininda, claiming that he had fabricated information regarding the death of the football star.

Meyiwa was fatally shot in the chest when two intruders allegedly entered the family home of his girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, in Vosloorus in October 2014 while he was relaxing with her and other friends.

Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa and Sifisokuhle Nkani Ntuli are standing trial for the murder of the Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana footballer.

Gininda served as the chief investigative officer in the case.

According to the Daily Sun, Absolom Zungu, the man that Gininda had claimed fingered two of the accused, accused number one Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya and accused number two Bongani Ntanzi, denied that he had ever made a statement to that effect to the top cop.

Absolom claimed that Gininda has worked in cohorts with his son, Constable Skhumbuzo Sizwe Zungu to fabricate evidence so that he could get a promotion.

In an interview with Daily Sun, Sifiso said he had always known that Gininda and Zungu were lying.

“From the start, I said Gininda fabricated evidence and now the so-called key witness is proving me right. There is nothing new. I was expecting this because I knew Constable Zungu, who was testifying, was lying.

“Gininda is a ‘corrupt cop’. If Absalom is denying making the statement and pointing the suspects, the big question is who pointed these suspects. This means Gininda fabricated evidence and pointed out the suspects himself,” he said.

Sifiso said that Gininda’s investigation was offensive to the Meyiwa family.

“There is no cop like him. What I’m praying for now is that the court must summon Absalom to testify. Because I know that after Absalom’s testimony this case will end.

“What we want is to see the state releasing those suspects before court and Gininda arrested. All I want is to see Gininda behind bars and will not rest when he is not arrested.

“He disrespected us. Our brother passed away and Gininda is busy bribing people and lying. Now, God is exposing him, and we see the light that he can be arrested anytime,” he said.

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