Former Minister Joel Gabbuza Hospitalised After Suspected Axe Attack Over Alleged Affair
Veteran politician and former Cabinet Minister Joel Gabbuza is currently receiving medical treatment following a violent attack in what appears to be a personal dispute rooted in a suspected love triangle.
Gabbuza, a longtime Member of Parliament for Binga South, sustained serious injuries and is recovering at Hwange Colliery Hospital.
The assault reportedly took place late on Friday, June 7, 2025. Preliminary accounts indicate that Gabbuza was allegedly attacked by a man who accused him of engaging in an extramarital affair with his wife.
Although the police have yet to release an official statement, sources close to the situation suggest the attack was driven by personal motives.
The assailant is believed to have fled the scene, and law enforcement agencies have since launched an investigation, which remains ongoing.
In the immediate aftermath of the incident, unfounded rumours of Gabbuza’s death quickly spread across various platforms. However, his family has dispelled these claims, confirming that he is very much alive and in stable condition.
“He is receiving medical care at Hwange Colliery Hospital. Compared to last night, his condition has significantly improved, and he is now able to speak,” Gabbuza’s son told CITE during a brief phone interview. He further noted that arrangements were underway to transfer his father to Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo for advanced treatment.
Gabbuza’s political journey spans more than two decades. He was first elected to Parliament in 2000 under the banner of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), representing the Binga constituency. After electoral boundary reconfigurations in 2008, he continued to serve as MP for Binga South until his recall from Parliament in October 2023.
Notably, Gabbuza held the position of Minister of Water Resources and Development during the Government of National Unity from 2009 to 2013. His tenure concluded when Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri assumed leadership of the newly consolidated Ministry of Water and Climate.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations into the attack and Gabbuza’s condition continue.