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NewsDay

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Zimra’s demands draw fire

Sport
ZIMBABWEANS have reacted with disgust to claims that Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) is demanding a staggering $70 000 from superstar boxer Charles Manyuchi before they can release his passport which was confiscated upon his return from a tour of duty in Italy last month.

ZIMBABWEANS have reacted with disgust to claims that Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) is demanding a staggering $70 000 from superstar boxer Charles Manyuchi before they can release his passport which was confiscated upon his return from a tour of duty in Italy last month.

BY HENRY MHARA

Zimra has been holding onto the passport since July 22 when the boxer made a triumphant return home. Manyuchi alleges that Zimra allegedly demanded import duty for the trophy.

The Masvingo-born star stopped Italian Gianculla Frezza in the sixth round in sequel in Italy to retain his crown.

The trophy, a sculpted wooden, but gold-coated glove, was presented to Manyuchi in commemoration of a former great Italian boxer and world champion Primo Carnera who died in 1967.

They initially seized the trophy before releasing it on condition the boxer surrendered his passport.

Charles Manyuchi in Italy on Saturday night

Manyuchi also claims that he earned $12 000 from the fight with 25% of that going into the pockets of his Zambian managers.

He later received $50 000 from President Robert Mugabe as appreciation for his efforts at a luncheon held in his honour.

While Zimra has refused to comment on the matter, Manyuchi claims that the revenue authority are pressing for the staggering payment.

The development has drawn fire from readers who condemned Zimra for disrespecting Manyuchi.

Most of the reactions on the story on our website, blasted Zimra, while others urged Mugabe to intervene.

“This is embarrassing to the nation on so many different levels. Heads have to roll at Zimra over this stupidity. Absolute and unacceptable disrespect being shown to a national hero,” one Museyamwa wrote.

Another reader Givemore commented: “This is an embarrassment to the Head of State RG Mugabe, the entire Cabinet as well as the legislators. Zimra Commissioner-General (Gershem Pasi) should resign with immediate effect as he has put the whole nation to shame.”

Plax weighed in saying: “These are results of a failed State looking for revenue even in a disgraceful manner.”

Also, one Gurinhwa said: “And how much was Kirsty Coventry charged by Zimra for bringing in gold and silver medals from the Olympics? Foolish Zimra, it shows how flawed you are.”

Willard Mubvumbi expressed his dismay, saying: “It’s bad. I believe this organisation is evil. How could you do that? You are destroying someone else’s career. I advise Manyuchi to get a Zambian citizenship.”

Another reader by the name pen Nigmaky even urged athletes that would be representing the country at the upcoming all Africa Games next month to return home empty-handed or risk Zimra’s wrath.