ZPA Calls for Spiritual Cleansing of Accident Hotspots
The Zimbabwe Passengers Association o (ZPA) has called for a national spiritual cleansing of road accident black spots as the country gears up for the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays this August.
ZPA Secretary-General Paul Makiwa urged travelers using road, air, rail, and water transport to prioritise safety and avoid risky behaviour during the holiday rush.
“This is the Heroes Holiday month a time of national rituals and heavy travel.
“Sadly, it’s also a time of avoidable funerals due to road accidents.
‘We call on President Mnangagwa and spirit mediums like Nehanda and King Mambo to lead a national cleansing of these deadly black spots to help save lives,” said Makiwa.
He called on traditional spirit mediums to hold cleansing ceremonies across provinces, arguing that spiritual intervention could help reduce fatal crashes.
Makiwa also blamed Transport Minister Felix Mhona and Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe for failing to curb deadly public transport accidents.
“Honourable Mhona, overloading in public service vehicles (PSVs) is happening under your watch.
“Many PSVs don’t even meet basic safety standards, like having clear passageways as required by law,” he said.
He further criticised the police, accusing them of turning a blind eye to traffic violations in exchange for bribes.
“Commissioners Mutamba and Nyathi your officers are letting overloaded, unroadworthy PSVs operate without proper documentation.
“The Police Charter says your job is to protect lives, but it seems bribes now come first,” Makiwa said.
He also labelled state-run ZUPCO buses a “death trap” and called for a complete overhaul of the fleet.
“ZUPCO is behaving like a Mushika Shika. Most of the buses are not roadworthy and are risking passengers’ lives.
‘The company should reflect the dignity of the presidency, not tarnish it.”
Makiwa urged bus operators to insure their fleets, stop overloading, and ensure that drivers are sober and well-rested before hitting the road.
His remarks come as Zimbabwe continues to witness fatal road accidents, especially during public holidays, mostly due to speeding, fatigue, overloading, and poor road infrastructure.
“Don’t drink and drive. Don’t speed. Don’t overtake dangerously. And don’t ignore potholes.
“We want people to get to their destinations alive,” he said.
The ZPA warned it would monitor the situation over the holidays and could call for a national protest if urgent action is not taken.