Former Minister of Water Resources and Development and long-serving Binga South Member of Parliament, Joel Gabbuza, is currently receiving medical treatment following a violent axe attack. The incident, which has sent shockwaves across the political landscape of Zimbabwe, occurred under murky circumstances and has raised serious concerns about public safety and misinformation in the age of social media.
Gabbuza is being treated at Hwange Colliery Hospital, where his condition is reportedly stabilising. According to sources close to the family, the former MP was the of a brutal assault allegedly carried out by a man who accused him of having an affair with his wife. While the full details of the attack have not been officially confirmed, preliminary accounts suggest it was both sudden and severe.
In the aftermath of the incident, rumours rapidly spread across various platforms claiming that Gabbuza had succumbed to his injuries. However, these reports were later debunked. In a brief but reassuring phone interview, Gabbuza’s son confirmed that his father is alive and responding to treatment.
“He is receiving treatment at Hwange Colliery Hospital,” said his son. “His condition has improved from last night—he is now able to speak. We are making arrangements to transfer him to Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo for further treatment and monitoring.”
The attack has left many in shock, especially those who have long known Gabbuza as a respected public servant with a distinguished political career spanning over two decades.
Joel Gabbuza was first elected to Parliament in 2000 under the banner of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), representing the Binga constituency. Following the 2008 electoral boundary reconfiguration, which saw Binga split into two constituencies—Binga North and Binga South—Gabbuza continued as MP for Binga South. He held this position through successive election cycles, including the 2013 general elections, consistently earning the trust and support of his constituents.
Former Minister Joel Gabbuza Hospitalised After Alleged Axe Attack Over Infidelity Suspicions
His tenure in public service was marked by his commitment to infrastructure development and advocacy for water access in rural communities. During Zimbabwe’s Government of National Unity (GNU) between 2009 and 2013, Gabbuza served as Minister of Water Resources and Development, a role in which he focused on improving national water systems and policy reforms.
Despite his strong record, Gabbuza’s time in Parliament came to an abrupt end in October 2023, when he was recalled by Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-proclaimed interim secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). The recall, which affected several opposition lawmakers, sparked controversy and division within the party and the broader opposition movement.
The latest incident adds a tragic and violent chapter to Gabbuza’s already eventful political journey. The motivations behind the attack, while currently attributed to a suspected affair, remain unverified. Police authorities have yet to release a formal statement or provide updates on any investigation or arrests connected to the assault.
Political observers and civil society organisations have condemned the violence and called for a thorough investigation into the matter. The attack has also ignited discussions about the role of personal vendettas, misinformation, and inadequate security for public figures.
“We are deeply disturbed by this incident,” said one civil rights advocate. “Whether motivated by personal issues or something else, such acts of violence are unacceptable and must be addressed by the law.”
Meanwhile, many Zimbabweans have taken to social media to express their concern and extend well wishes to Gabbuza and his family. The outpouring of support reflects his deep connection with the communities he has served for more than two decades.
As arrangements are being made to transfer the former MP to Bulawayo for continued treatment, many wait anxiously for further news on his condition. While the immediate danger appears to have passed, the attack has highlighted the broader risks faced by public figures and the pressing need for a safer and more respectful political climate in Zimbabwe.
