‘Return the money or face the consequences’ — Zanu PF gives ultimatum to abusers of Presidential Empowerment funds
Zanu PF affiliates, groups and individuals who benefitted under various Presidential economic empowerment programmes but failed to utilise the funds for their intended purposes have been given an ultimatum to return the money by 2026 or face consequences.
The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by President Mnangagwa’s administration to roll out economic empowerment initiatives targeting youths, women, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
The interventions are part of the Second Republic’s development philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
Speaking to thousands of people at Freedom Square in Binga during the launch of the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund programme for Matabeleland North yesterday, Presidential Advisor on Investment, Dr Paul Tungwarara, said some beneficiaries of previous empowerment programmes had abused the funds through diversion and misuse.
“I have been sent by President Mnangagwa to distribute funds under the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund. I am just a messenger,” he said.
“I want to warn those who benefitted from various Presidential empowerment programmes that if you diverted the funds and failed to use them for their intended purpose, you are given an ultimatum to return the money by 2026. Failure to do so will result in dire consequences.”
Dr Tungwarara said abuse of empowerment funds by some leaders had undermined the objective of uplifting grassroots communities.
“We have Zanu PF affiliates who received money meant for empowerment, but some chose to divert it. In 2026, there will be gnashing of teeth for those who abused these resources,” he said.
“We don’t want greedy individuals who deprive ordinary people of the President’s support.”
Dr Tungwarara added that those who misuse public resources tarnish the image of the President, whose vision is to ensure inclusive national development.
“We don’t want people who steal the President’s money and go unpunished. These funds are meant to uplift communities and ensure that no one and no place is left behind,” he said.
During the event, Dr Tungwarara disbursed US$25 000 each to six constituencies in Matabeleland North — Hwange West, Hwange East, Hwange Central, Binga North, Binga South and Umguza — under the empowerment programme. In addition, district co-ordinating committee chairpersons from the province’s seven districts received vehicles and US$10 000 each to support their operations.
President Mnangagwa also donated a US$20 000 revolving fund to women in Binga to promote income-generating projects. Furthermore, 2 000 food hampers were distributed to the elderly, people living with disabilities and orphans ahead of the festive season.
The donation followed a request from the Foundation for the Care of the Vulnerable.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Ester Munsaka (78), said the food hamper would make a significant difference during the festive period.
“I had no idea how I was going to enjoy Christmas because I had no food at home. This is an early Christmas gift, and I am grateful to the President,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Mr Benson Mutale (80), said the donation would help ease his hardships.
Dr Tungwarara emphasised that empowerment initiatives should promote unity rather than division.
“These funds are allocated here by His Excellency to foster unity and strength, not to create divisions. They are not intended to form factions or fuel jealousy,” he said.
“Instead, they serve as a tool to build a stronger, more self-reliant Matabeleland North. Unity remains our most powerful asset for development. Division has held us back for too long.”
Dr Tungwarara said when people are divided, it hinders progress.
“It only satisfies those who do not wish to see a prosperous, united Matabeleland North within a flourishing Zimbabwe,” he said.
Dr Tungwarara urged Zimbabweans to rally behind President Mnangagwa, saying he is an outstanding leader who stands by his word and delivers his promises.
“President Mnangagwa’s leadership is firm and inclusive. Our duty is to nurture that unity from the ground up. Let this fund strengthen the bond between the people of Binga and their party, demonstrating that shared purpose drives undeniable development,” he said.
“People of Mat’North, your resilience is a proud part of history. Now, harness that same determination for these projects. Vision 2030 will be realised through our collective effort in every village.
“Your dedication, along with this capital and a shared purpose, will not only transform lives locally but also boost the country’s economic growth. We will develop this area through our own efforts, demonstrating that no one is left behind.”
Speaking at the same event, Zanu PF National Commissar Cde Munyaradzi Machacha highlighted several development projects underway in Binga, saying they reflected a responsive and listening Government.
He acknowledged challenges such as poor road infrastructure, water shortages and inadequate schools and health facilities, but said the Zanu PF-led Government was addressing them.
“We are upgrading some schools into examination centres so that learners don’t walk long distances, which puts them at risk. We will continue rolling out empowerment programmes to uplift the people of Binga,” said Cde Machacha.
Zanu PF Matabeleland North provincial chairperson Cde Richard Moyo commended the Government for implementing transformative projects in the province, including the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project, Lupane Provincial Hospital and the construction of clinics and schools through devolution funds.
“President Mnangagwa is a listening leader and today, we are witnessing several transformative projects in the province, which are making a positive impact and helping boost our Matabeleland North GDP,” he said.
The event was attended by Zanu PF Politburo members Dr Sithembiso Nyoni and Cde Alice Dube, Central Committee member Cde Joshua Muzamba, and Binga North Member of Parliament Cde Muchimba Chineka. *_-Herald_*
