Staff Reporter
Douglas Mwonzora, leader of the Movement for Democratic Change-Tsvangirai (MDC-T), is currently under scrutiny as allegations emerge of his involvement in illegal diamond and green aquamarine trading in Manicaland Province, specifically in the Marange area.
A source close to the situation claims that Mwonzora has strategically placed associates in the Marange area to secretly purchase the diamonds to fund his political endeavours.
"Mwonzora has mobilised a clandestine network in Manicaland, with individuals operating under the radar to acquire diamonds and green aquamarines. These activities are not only illicit but also pose a significant threat to the legitimate diamond trade in the region,” said the source.
Further, the source said that Mwonzora was not working alone as he has partnered with one Makumbe in these illegal diamond deals.
"Mwonzora and Makumbe are deeply involved in this underground trade, and it’s alarming to note that they lack the requisite licences to deal in diamonds or any other minerals. This is a clear violation of the law and a blatant disregard for the proper channels of trade,” added the source.
The source added that Mwonzora and Makumbe have plans to smuggle the diamonds out of Zimbabwe.
"Their endgame is to get these diamonds across borders and sell them for profit in international markets. This is a well-orchestrated scheme to bypass legal and ethical boundaries for financial gain," the source explained.
Political commentator, Trevor Chipwanya said that if the allegations were true, then Mwonzora doesn’t deserve to be a leader.
“The exposure of these illegal activities raises urgent questions about the integrity of political leaders like Mwonzora, who is alleged to be financing his political ambitions through unlawful means. As the Government continues to clamp down on illicit mining and trade, the spotlight is now on Mwonzora and his associates, demanding accountability and transparency in their dealings,” said Chipwanya.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Government has been relentless in its fight against illegal mining activities, a menace that has resulted in significant economic losses.
The illegal trade deprives the country of valuable Government revenue and royalties, ultimately undermining the legal mining sector's ability to contribute meaningfully to the economy. These actions directly counteract the Government’s efforts to attain an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
