A 20-year-old man from Gutu’s Chief Chitsa area was arrested for raping a 65-year-old woman at her homestead. Emanuel Mahachi broke into the woman’s home in Buhera’s Chief Chitsunge area on September 27, 2024, by shattering a window. Once inside, he confronted the elderly woman, who screamed for help, but her cries went unanswered. Mahachi seized her neck, ordering her to comply, and then committed the assault.
Afterward, Mahachi fell asleep, allowing the victim to alert her neighbors about the intruder and the horrific act. This led to Mahachi’s arrest and subsequent sentencing to 18 years in prison by the Rusape Magistrates’ Court.
In other news, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on local authorities to reject corruption and work towards becoming models of excellence that lead with integrity and adopt innovative best practices.
Speaking to over 2,000 councillors from all 92 local authorities at the Zimbabwe Local Government Association’s “All Councillors Indaba” in Harare on November 26, Mnangagwa expressed his deep concern about corruption within local government and society at large. He stressed that those involved in corrupt activities must be held accountable and warned that no one, including local authorities, would be exempt from legal action.
Mnangagwa highlighted the crucial role of local authorities, whether urban or rural, in the governance system. He emphasized the need for unity among councils, urging them to collaborate, share experiences, and refine their policies for the benefit of Zimbabwe’s people. He urged them to ensure efficient service delivery that meets the needs of the public, with regular consultations to keep services sustainable and affordable.
The President also praised the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works for its partnership with the Chitepo School of Ideology in training mayors, council chairpersons, and other executives. He emphasized that this initiative would help align local governance with the nation’s broader vision, as outlined in the national Constitution.
ALSO READ ; Mnangagwa Urges Local Authorities to Combat Corruption and Embrace Excellence