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Leopold Munhende

Harare, Zimbabwe
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About Leopold
I am a Reporter and TV Producer with NewZimbabwe.com, one of Zimbabwe's largest online news sites. Previously I have been with The Mirror (Masvingo) where I was appointed Acting News Editor between 2013 and 2014. I was Editor of MatchDay Zimbabwe a Zimbabwean football magazine.

Currently I am writing Politics, Features and Current Affairs.

I have also featured a number of times in the respected Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) publication, Thinking Beyond.
Languages
English Ndebele
Services
Risk Analysis Research Photography
+1
Skills
Politics Current Affairs Fact Checking
Portfolio

Human Rights Commission investigating cases of post-election violence; notes Zanu PF, Chiefs’ promises to ‘deal with’ those who voted for opposition

23 Apr 2024  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission is investigating politically motivated violence against opposition supporters and leaders following the August elections. Incidents include the forced disappearance and torture of Harare Councillor Womberaiishe Nhende and MP Takudzwa Ngadziore, and the death of CCC activist Tapfumaneyi Masaya. The Commission's report highlighted electoral anomalies but confirmed adherence to the Constitution. It also noted post-election intimidation by Zanu PF officials and traditional leaders against those who voted for the opposition, despite a High Court ruling barring traditional leaders from partisan politics.

Time for Zimbabweans to stand up for themselves – says CCC’s Kufahakutizwi after ZEC declares rival Sakupwanya uncontested MP in Mabvuku

22 Apr 2024  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) urged Zimbabweans to defend themselves against Zanu PF's constitutional breaches after being barred from contesting the Mabvuku-Tafara constituency seat, which was won uncontested by Zanu PF's Pedzai 'Scott' Sakupwanya. Kufahakutizwi's candidacy was withdrawn by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be CCC's Interim Secretary General. The High Court ruled that recalled CCC MPs could not re-contest under their party, a move disputed by CCC President Nelson Chamisa. CCC Spokesperson Promise Mkhwananzi indicated that while legal and political solutions are being explored, public opinion might eventually determine their course of action. CCC activist Joseph Chirwa stated that Mabvuku residents do not recognize Sakupwanya, having voted for Kufahakutizwi in their hearts.

Zimbabwe headed into dark cloud of uncertainty – says CCC after arrest of three leaders, barely two weeks after Mnangagwa’s inauguration

22 Apr 2024  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has expressed concerns over a looming dark period in Zimbabwe, highlighted by the arrest of three opposition leaders shortly after President Emmerson Mnangagwa's inauguration. Sunningdale MP Maureen Kademaunga, Harare Deputy Mayor Kudzai Kadzombe, and CCC's Chirumanzu South candidate Patrick Cheza are among those arrested on various charges. CCC Deputy Spokesperson Ostallos Siziba, facing court for incitement charges, has criticized the government as 'scared and illegitimate.' CCC Spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi fled the country after an alleged abduction attempt, while former CCC Legislator Job Sikhala has been in prison for over a year.

Mumba touches raw nerve after comments on FAZ; Zanu PF calls SADC head of observer mission to ‘order’

21 Apr 2024  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
Nevers Mumba, SADC's Head of Delegation for its Election Observer Mission, criticized the activities of the CIO-backed Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ) for intimidating voters and conducting questionable 'Exit Poll Surveys'. Zanu PF spokesperson Mutsvangwa defended FAZ, calling Mumba to order and accusing him of bias and improper conduct. Mumba's remarks were unexpected as SADC typically approves Zimbabwe's elections. The incident follows the arrest of 41 ZESN and ERC officials for allegedly attempting to announce results before the official electoral commission. Mumba has gained favor with Zimbabwe's online community, while ZEC has been criticized for mishandling the voting process.

‘Robbery’ hitmaker Freeman interviewed by police over questionable, continued association with criminals

11 Apr 2024  |  newzimbabwe.com
Zimdancehall artist Freeman, also known as Emegy Sylvester Chizanga, was interviewed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police's Homicide division regarding his connections with armed robbery suspects. This follows the death of a third armed robber linked to him. Freeman had previously been questioned after the killing of Charles Chirara, his bouncer, in 2021 by ex-cop Joseph Nemaisa. Recently, Freeman's close friend and music promoter Godknows Machingura was killed in a shootout with a ZRP CID squad.

Biden announces end of US sanctions program on Zimbabwe; tightens restrictions on Mnangagwa over ‘corruption, serious human rights abuses’

09 Apr 2024  |  newzimbabwe.com
U.S. President Joseph Biden has terminated the sanctions regime on Zimbabwe, which has been in place since 2003, while maintaining restrictions on 14 individuals, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, due to concerns over human rights abuses and corruption. The move signals a potential thaw in relations between the U.S. and Zimbabwe, which had been strained by issues such as violent land seizures and contentious elections. The sanctions program had targeted individuals undermining democratic processes or involved in corruption, and its end follows extensive lobbying by the Zimbabwean government and support from allied countries.

Opposition Deputy Spokesperson to Sue State After Court Throws Out Charges of Tearing Zanu PF Campaign Posters for Lack of Evidence

04 Apr 2024  |  newzimbabwe.com
Ostallos Siziba, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Citizens Coalition for Change, plans to sue the State for damages after being acquitted of charges related to defacing campaign posters and inciting violence. The charges, which Siziba claims were fabricated by Zanu PF to target opposition members, had required his attendance in court since August. The dismissal of the case on the grounds of insufficient evidence has prompted Siziba to seek at least $100,000 in compensation. Other CCC members, including Job Sikhala and Patrick Cheza, have also faced legal challenges.

CCC disengages from Parliament, Councils as Chamisa threatens total withdrawal if issue is not resolved

04 Apr 2024  |  newzimbabwe.com
Nelson Chamisa, President of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has announced a disengagement from Parliament and Councils in Zimbabwe, threatening total withdrawal of his party's elected officials if their recent controversial recalls are not addressed within 14 days. The recalls were based on a letter from an alleged phony party Secretary General, Sengezo Tshabangu, which led to Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda declaring 15 vacancies. Chamisa has put key stakeholders on notice about a constitutional crisis and disputed election in the country. The CCC's disengagement follows resistance to Mudenda's actions, including running battles with anti-riot and Parliament police.

Zimbabwe: Chinamasa Urges Mabvuku-Tafara Residents to Take Advantage of CCC Crisis to Vote Sakupwanya Into Parliament

08 Dec 2023  |  allafrica.com
Patrick Chinamasa of ZANU PF encouraged Mabvuku-Tafara residents to vote for Pedzai Sakupwanya in the upcoming by-election, capitalizing on the internal crisis of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Sakupwanya, who previously lost to Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi, is contesting again after Kufahakutizwi's recall by CCC's Sengezo Tshabangu, which was later admitted as a mistake. Despite legal battles, a High Court ruling has barred MPs recalled by Tshabangu from running on a CCC ticket. Chinamasa highlighted Sakupwanya's past contributions to the constituency and urged voters to support him over the opposition.

Widow of murdered CCC supporter says she didn’t think the worst, thought husband was just having trouble getting a ride home

17 Nov 2023  |  newsfounded.com
Maria Zhuwawo, widow of the murdered Citizens Coalition for Change activist Tapfumaneyi Masaya, initially thought her husband was merely struggling to find transportation home. Masaya, a pastor, was involved in door-to-door campaigns for the CCC before the December by-election. He was abducted by suspected Zanu PF youths in vehicles linked to Mabvuku Constituency candidate Scott Sakupwanya. Zhuwawo faced additional distress due to a mix-up by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's spokesperson, George Charamba, who incorrectly identified the body and suggested the CCC was seeking international sympathy. Masaya's abduction and murder have left Zhuwawo in a state of grief, awaiting divine intervention, while raising serious concerns about political violence in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe: A Cornered Rat Will Eventually Strike Back - Says CCC Activist Who Helped Identify Battered Body of Murdered Colleague

17 Nov 2023  |  Allafrica.com
Tonderai Dombo, a CCC activist, warned of potential retaliation after identifying the battered body of his colleague, Tapfumaneyi Masaya, who was abducted and murdered by suspected Zanu PF youths. Dombo, known for his 2016 protest against then-President Mugabe, expressed outrage at the political violence in Zimbabwe. Masaya's body showed signs of severe assault and was identified by his clothing at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. An independent postmortem and DNA test are expected, amidst accusations from the government's spokesperson against the opposition. The CCC is demanding answers from the police, and an interview with Masaya's widow is scheduled to be broadcast on Destiny TV.

Zimbabwe: CCC Disengages From Parliament, Councils as Chamisa Threatens Total Withdrawal If Issue Is Not Resolved

12 Oct 2023  |  allafrica.com
Nelson Chamisa, President of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has announced a disengagement from Parliament and Councils in Zimbabwe following the controversial recall of 15 CCC legislators. The recall was based on a letter from an alleged phony party official, which Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda acted upon, declaring vacancies to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Chamisa has threatened a total withdrawal of CCC members if the issue is not resolved within 14 days and has notified international stakeholders of a constitutional crisis. The CCC's disengagement comes amidst physical confrontations with anti-riot and Parliament police, and Mudenda has stated that his decision is final, with the courts being CCC's only avenue for reprieve.

END OF A “MISTAKE”: Market rejects $50 Mbuya Nehanda note as inflation rises

05 Oct 2023  |  newsbeezer.com
Vendors and retailers in Harare, Zimbabwe, are rejecting the ZW$50 note introduced by Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor John Mangudya in 2021 due to its significant devaluation, now worth less than $0.10. The note, named after the legendary spirit medium Mbuya Nehanda, is part of a series of banknotes that have been rejected by the public. Zimbabwe faces the world's highest inflation rate at 284.94%, surpassing even Venezuela. The RBZ-Zanu PF-led government attributes economic difficulties to sanctions and external forces, while President Emmerson Mnangagwa claims the local currency is the strongest in the SADC region, despite evidence to the contrary.

One person was reported dead and several others injured as violent thugs attached a campaign rally in Kwekwe addressed by CCC leader Nelson Chamisa

CCC President Nelson Chamisa's Madzibaba speaks on his future, Douglas Mwonzora and Thokozani Khupe

Hands waved frantically, in awe, excitement and appreciation as African Parks trucks make their way through villages near Matusadona National Park

05 Apr 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The article by Leopold Munhende focuses on the positive impact of the partnership between African Parks (AP) and Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) on the Matusadona National Park and the surrounding communities. Since the agreement in 2019, significant investment has been made into the park's rehabilitation, including anti-poaching efforts, resulting in a rise in wildlife populations. The local communities have benefited from employment opportunities, improved healthcare, and education, with AP investing in infrastructure such as clinics and schools. The park's success has led to a change in local perceptions, with wildlife now seen as a valuable heritage and source of livelihood. The article also highlights future plans to introduce more species like black rhinos and cheetahs to the park, which spans 1,470km2 and is part of AP's network of protected areas across Africa.

The Fear of Being Outed: Zimbabwe's LGBTQI+ Community and Their Families

05 Apr 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The article by Leopold Munhende discusses the challenges faced by the LGBTQI+ community and their families in Zimbabwe, a country with conservative views on sexuality. Stella Makunike, a mother of a gay child, shares her experiences of discrimination, including being excommunicated from her church and ostracized by her family. The article highlights the abuse and exclusion faced by members of the Parents, Friends and Allies (PFLAG) movement and the LGBTQI+ community at large. Research by Out and Proud indicates widespread social exclusion in Southern Africa. Despite the risks, organizations like GALZ provide support and counseling to affected families. The article also touches on the legal barriers, with Zimbabwe's constitution prohibiting same-sex marriages and criminalizing same-sex intercourse. The story underscores the need for support and understanding for the LGBTQI+ community and their families in the face of societal and religious prejudice.

Inside Zimbabwe’s Biggest Hospital: Decay, Neglect and Sewage

05 Apr 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The article by Leopold Munhende reports on the deplorable state of Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Zimbabwe's largest referral hospital. Despite its size and importance, the facility is plagued by unattended sewage, a foul smell, and a plethora of other maintenance issues. The hospital's infrastructure has been neglected for over three years, with incidents such as ceilings collapsing on patients. Nurses and healthcare providers are working in poor conditions, with outdated equipment and a lack of necessary supplies. The article suggests that the decline of the healthcare system is due to poor funding, maladministration, and corruption under two Zanu PF regimes. High profile officials avoid the hospital, seeking medical treatment abroad instead. A promised major refurbishment in 2004 failed, and the hospital spokesperson disputes the presence of sewage despite evidence to the contrary.

US Aid Saves Pregnant Zimbabwean Women from Water Crisis

05 Apr 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The article discusses the severe water crisis in rural Manicaland, Zimbabwe, and its impact on pregnant women's health and childbirth. It highlights the recent improvements due to a USAID-sponsored program, implemented by Africa AHEAD with UNICEF funding, which installed solar-powered boreholes at clinics. These interventions have provided reliable, clean water, improved sanitation, and facilitated better obstetric services. The initiative has significantly reduced the hardships for expecting mothers, who previously had to choose between home births without skilled help or clinics lacking water. The availability of water has also allowed for the establishment of nutritional gardens and improved infection control at the clinics. The article includes testimonies from local women and healthcare workers who express the positive changes brought by the water systems, such as access to hot showers and modernized facilities.

Zimbabwe: All-Female Anti-Poaching Unit Changing Mindsets

24 Mar 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com
The article discusses the impact of the all-female anti-poaching unit Akashinga, The Brave Ones, on conservation efforts and women empowerment in the Zambezi Valley. Founded by Damien Mander in August 2017, Akashinga recruits disadvantaged women from rural Hurungwe, including single mothers, widows, and victims of gender-based violence. The unit has successfully changed community mindsets, inspired young girls, and increased wildlife sightings by 400%. They have also prevented elephant poaching for three years, stopped ivory shipments, and intercepted ivory deals. The initiative has led to community development, with women being able to buy land, build houses, and improve their families' lives. The success of Akashinga has been celebrated by the community and has spread to three other countries, covering nine million acres of African safari.
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