Zanu PF online activists, known as Varakashi4ED, have called on ZiFM Stereo to dismiss presenter MisRed, real name Samantha Mary Musa, over allegations that she manipulated a listener poll on her programme, The Rush Drive Time.
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The poll named opposition activist Fadzayi Mahere as “Overall Zimbabwean of the Year,” beating nominees linked to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, including Wicknell Chivayo and Pedzayi Sakupwanya.
Varakashi4ED National Chairman Godwin Nkatha alleged that MisRed had distorted the results. He said: “The recent results released by MisRed have raised serious concerns regarding their accuracy and credibility. It is evident that the rightful outcome reflected a tie between Tino Machakaire and Wicknell Chivayo, with Pedzayi Sakupwanya securing second place. The figures presented by MisRed, saying Fadzayi Mahere won, are misleading, lack integrity, and must be disregarded by all right-thinking Zimbabweans.”
Nkatha added: “Such distortions undermine public trust and compromise the values of fairness and transparency that our nation upholds. We therefore call upon the Government to urgently intervene and request ZiFM to replace the controversial MisRed with immediate effect. Zimbabweans deserve results that are truthful, credible, and reflective of the people’s voice.”
ZiFM Stereo responded by clarifying that the Rush Awards are not an official station awards platform. The broadcaster emphasized that the awards are a light-hearted, audience-driven feature reflecting the views of The Rush listeners, rather than the stance of the station itself.
Varakashi4ED, described by researchers as a digital “army” defending President Mnangagwa and ZANU PF, actively monitors social media to criticise and delegitimise individuals who challenge the party. Human rights groups note that the group’s aggressive tactics, particularly against female activists and journalists, foster a climate of fear and discourage open online debate.
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