Former foreign minister Walter Mzembi returned to Zimbabwe after six years away from the country since 2018. The 61-year-old politician left during his corruption trial claiming he needed cancer treatment abroad. Mzembi said President Mnangagwa targeted him unfairly after the military removed Robert Mugabe from power. He lived as an exile across Zambia and South Africa during his absence from home. Sources confirmed Mzembi met Mnangagwa at State House Wednesday morning after quietly entering Harare.
Courts issued arrest warrants against Mzembi during 2019 when he skipped his trial for stealing televisions. Prosecutors accused him of taking two million dollars worth of equipment bought for World Cup fan parks. National Prosecuting Authority wanted Interpol help to bring Mzembi back for his court case. The former tourism minister moved between African countries that belong to Interpol without facing arrest. Officials never explained whether they actually pursued international law enforcement assistance.
War veteran Phillip Chabata helped negotiate Mzembi return to Zimbabwe according to political insiders. Chabata maintains close relationships with President Mnangagwa and other ruling party leaders. Mzembi supported Saviour Kasukuwere presidential campaign during 2023 before courts blocked the former minister from running. Many former Mugabe allies remain scattered around the world fearing revenge from current leaders. Nobody knows what happens to outstanding warrants or corruption charges against the returned politician.
Courts issued arrest warrants against Mzembi during 2019 when he skipped his trial for stealing televisions. Prosecutors accused him of taking two million dollars worth of equipment bought for World Cup fan parks. National Prosecuting Authority wanted Interpol help to bring Mzembi back for his court case. The former tourism minister moved between African countries that belong to Interpol without facing arrest. Officials never explained whether they actually pursued international law enforcement assistance.
War veteran Phillip Chabata helped negotiate Mzembi return to Zimbabwe according to political insiders. Chabata maintains close relationships with President Mnangagwa and other ruling party leaders. Mzembi supported Saviour Kasukuwere presidential campaign during 2023 before courts blocked the former minister from running. Many former Mugabe allies remain scattered around the world fearing revenge from current leaders. Nobody knows what happens to outstanding warrants or corruption charges against the returned politician.
