NewsPlug

False claims hurt drug fight- Machakaire
Staff Writer

YOUTH Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire has dismissed allegations linking him to drug peddling, warning that the spread of misinformation is undermining national efforts to combat drug and substance abuse.

The allegations stem from an audio clip circulating on social media platforms in which the minister is accused of involvement in illegal drug activities — claims he has described as false, malicious and damaging to the country’s anti-drug campaign.

Responding in a detailed statement posted online, Machakaire rejected the accusations and reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding young people from the growing threat of drug abuse.

“As the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, I carry the responsibility of protecting, empowering and guiding our young people with the seriousness and integrity the office demands.

“The issue of drugs, substance abuse and drug peddling is deeply painful and disturbing because it continues to destroy the lives, dreams and futures of many young people across our communities.

“As a parent, a leader and a Christian, I will never tolerate criminal behaviour or anything that threatens the well-being of our children,” he said

Machakaire said the proliferation of unverified claims and online attacks risks diverting attention from the real challenges facing youths, particularly the escalating drug abuse crisis.

“It is therefore heartbreaking to witness reckless and false narratives being spread without evidence, especially on matters as sensitive as this.

“False accusations do not only damage reputations, but they also weaken society’s collective fight against the real dangers affecting our youth.”

He urged those making the allegations to pursue lawful channels and present credible evidence, emphasising that accountability must be grounded in due process rather than speculation.

“If anyone has credible evidence regarding any wrongdoing, I encourage them to come forward through the proper channels so that the law can take its course,” he said.

“We cannot build our nation on rumours, hatred, malicious attacks and character assassination disguised as public concern.”

The minister also called for greater responsibility among citizens in their use of digital platforms, cautioning against the harmful consequences of misinformation.

“Let us remember that public opinion is not always the truth. Words can destroy families, reputations and lives,” he said.

“As Zimbabweans, let us choose responsibility, honesty, compassion and unity over reckless accusations that divide and harm one another.”

Machakaire stressed that defeating drug abuse requires a united, truth-driven approach anchored on integrity and shared responsibility.

“Together, we can build a stronger nation when we choose responsibility over recklessness, respect over hatred and truth over falsehood.”

His remarks come at a time when government and stakeholders are intensifying efforts to curb rising cases of drug and substance abuse among young people, a growing public health and social concern across the country.

Transform Zimbabwe, Machakaire urge leaders

REPORTER

THE Zanu PF Youth League has urged party leaders to unite in efforts to transform Zimbabwe and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

Speaking during the Youth League’s National Assembly meeting, secretary for Youth Affairs Tino Machakaire said leaders should remain committed to improving the welfare of citizens.

“Zanu PF is a revolutionary mass party built on strong structures, discipline and principles that must always be respected and protected. As young leaders, we carry the responsibility of defending the unity, integrity and direction of the Party at all times.

“Your Excellency, history remembers leaders who hold office, but generations remember leaders who transform nations. Your Excellency, under your leadership, the people of Zimbabwe continue to witness vision, resilience and development in action.”

Machakaire said youths were benefiting from empowerment initiatives and economic opportunities introduced under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.

“Under President Mnangagwa leadership, young people are increasingly becoming active participants in the economic transformation of our country through various empowerment programmes, skills development initiatives and business opportunities being rolled out by the Second Republic.

“We also wish to commend the outstanding efforts of the Second Republic during this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. Of particular importance to the youths was the Youth Business Forum which created an important platform for young entrepreneurs to engage, learn and strengthen their appreciation of financial literacy, business management and economic participation,” Machakaire said.

“We wish to assure President Mnangagwa that all young people who benefit from these empowerment initiatives will utilise the resources responsibly, diligently and productively.

“As a revolving fund and in the spirit of leaving no one and no place behind, it is important that these resources are protected and managed with integrity so that many more young people may continue benefiting for generations to come,” he said.

Machakaire also thanked the government for rolling out equipment under the Presidential Empowerment Scheme, saying it was already assisting young people in most provinces.

“We further extend our sincere gratitude for the Presidential Empowerment Scheme equipment which is now operating at close to 90 percent capacity across provinces, with only Mashonaland Central yet to receive its empowerment package. We appreciate the assurance that this process is going to be expedited.

“The youths of Zimbabwe are extremely grateful for this support and have fully embraced your instruction that these businesses must be handled professionally and with the highest levels of integrity, accountability and responsibility in order to guarantee long-term sustainability and success,” he said.

He said the Youth League would continue safeguarding the party’s unity, values and revolutionary principles.

“As the Youth League, we pledge to remain resolute in our endeavour of being a vibrant vanguard of the revolutionary ruling party, Zanu PF. We reiterate our absolute and unequivocal support to our revered leader as he steers the nation towards the attainment of vision 2030,” Machakaire said.

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