EX-CONVICTED rapist, Bobby Makaza, says he never approached Zanu PF or Deputy Sports and Arts minister, Tino Machakaire, to build him a house for popularising 'the Mnangagwa Huchi' slogan. 

Makaza trended on social media with his “Mnangagwa huchi” phrase following his release on amnesty over rape charges.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa gazetted Clemency Order No. 1 of 2023 which saw the release of 4270 inmates from the country’s jails in May this year including Makaza. 

Reports said Makaza was given a house by Machakaire during a rally held at  Mutawatawa, Uzuma Maramba Pfungwe district in Mashonaland East on Saturday as a present for the 'Mnangagwa huchi' phrase. 

"I have never met minister Machakaire neither do I know him or have spoken to him before," Makaza said. 

"I am trying to get my life back after prison and have not asked any favours from the ruling party including the Machakaire.

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" I was excited when I was released and was thankful to the President. 

"I remain grateful for the amnesty, but since that time, I never approached party officials for a present for the Huchi phrase."

Machakaire was not answering his mobile number when contacted for comment. 

Makaza is facing jail after the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) challenged his release from prison. 

He was accused of raping a 15 year old juvenile. 

The lawyers are seeking a detailed explanation from ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu on why ZPCS contravened section 12(d) as read with 13(c) of Clemency Order No.1 of 2023.

According to ZLHR using the quoted law section, Makaza being a convicted rapist, was excluded from benefitting from the presidential amnesty.

Makaza had served four years of a 16 year sentence.

ZLHR said that, on behalf of their client, they are seeking to overturn Makaza’s release as it was not constitutional.
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