Former Norton legislator Temba Mliswa has voiced strong opinions regarding the ongoing US$7.7 million presidential goat scheme scandal involving Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, suggesting that political motivations are driving the case rather than legal concerns. In a post on his X handle, Mliswa expressed skepticism about the decision to broadcast the case live, claiming it indicates the influence of a “third hand” manipulating the narrative. He argued that Chimombe, who is not directly linked to the allegations, should have been granted bail long ago.
“I didn’t want to comment on the Chimombe and Mpofu case, but the latest revelations that the case will be broadcasted live have confirmed my suspicions that there is a third hand behind it,” Mliswa stated. “The case is more political than legal as all vestiges of the latter have fallen away.”
Mliswa characterized the proceedings as theatrical, suggesting they are orchestrated by hidden powers seeking to demonstrate their influence within the ruling Zanu-PF party. He alluded to a well-known ex-convict, widely believed to be controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, as the figure behind the alleged manipulation.
Chimombe and Mpofu’s detainment coincided with the emergence of incriminating voice notes involving Chivayo discussing a substantial US$100 million tender related to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). Although their arrest is not directly linked to the ZEC scandal, they face allegations pertaining to the goat scheme and a separate US$9.2 million street lights tender.
Drawing parallels to his own experiences with law enforcement under former ZRP Commissioner Augustine Chihuri, Mliswa cautioned those in power that their actions would eventually have consequences. He expressed concern over the selective attention given to this case, contrasting it with larger corruption issues like the Sandura Commission, which have been kept out of the spotlight. “Yet even bigger corruption cases, like the Sandura Commission, have been held away from the limelight. It’s very sad how a whole system can be corrupted and abused to pander to the whims of a monied person,” he lamented.
Chivayo, whose wealth has often been scrutinized, has made headlines for publicly deriding former associates, labeling them as “fraudsters” and “idiots.” His philanthropic efforts, including donations to his church and to Zanu-PF members, have also drawn attention. As the case unfolds, the implications of Mliswa’s assertions about political motivations and corruption within the system continue to resonate, raising questions about the integrity of the legal proceedings and the influences at play.
In other news – Madungwe to be sentenced on October 9
Talent Madungwe, a self-proclaimed prophet known for his controversial views, is scheduled to be sentenced tomorrow, October 9, by the Magistrates Court in Epworth. The preacher has been facing charges related to violations of the Road Traffic Act, which include negligent driving and operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license.
Madungwe’s case has garnered significant attention, both for his public persona and the serious nature of the charges against him. As the court date approaches, many are awaiting the outcome and potential implications of the sentencing on his ministry and public standing. Read More
