By Ziyah News Reporter
Former Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Walter Mzembi has found himself embroiled in in the latest fake PHD scandal following an investigation revealing that his claimed doctorate degree is fraudulent.
Journalist Maynard Manyowa and his investigative team at We Dug Up have uncovered evidence suggesting that the institution from which Mzembi claims to have graduated does not exist.
This revelation is raising serious questions about the legitimacy of his academic credentials, which are essential for any public official.
The investigation highlighted that the supposed university does not confer doctoral degrees, throwing into doubt Mzembi’s assertion of holding a PhD.
“Walter Mzembi, the ex-minister of foreign affairs & tourism, graduated with a doctorate from a school that ‘does not exist.’ The synopsis for his pretend thesis indicates it was written by someone else too – a junior from the tourism ministry,” Manyowa stated.
Adding to the skepticism, the metadata from Mzembi’s thesis synopsis showed that it was finalized on December 2, 2015, and astonishingly, Mzembi graduated just five days later.
This rapid turnaround has prompted widespread outrage and disbelief on social media, particularly concerning the integrity of someone previously in a high-ranking government position.
This unexpected scandal follows closely on the heels of another controversy within Zimbabwe’s government ranks.
ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera has come under fire for allegedly hiring a Mutare-based academic to complete her PhD. Reports indicated that she may have been complicit in an arrangement with her supervisor at Midlands State University, further eroding public trust in officials holding advanced degrees.
Moreover, despite receiving an honorary degree from an institution previously banned by Zimbabwe’s High Court from awarding qualifications, Mavetera has continued to use the title “Dr.” This has reignited discussions about the credibility of academic qualifications among Zimbabwean politicians.
As Mzembi faces increasing scrutiny, speculation is growing over who might be next in line for exposure in this unfolding saga.