Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has fired three of the five Tsholotsho Rural District Council (RDC) councillors who were being probed by an independent tribunal over alleged criminal abuse of office and fraud while the remaining two were acquitted.
Local Government and Public Works Minister, Daniel Garwe, suspended the councillors in February this year.
This followed an investigation by a committee appointed by the minister.
The accused were; Ward 1 councillor Witness Khumalo, Jabulani Sigagula (Ward 7), Busani Vundla (Ward 6), Jabulani Ndlovu (Ward 10) and Felix Tshuma (Ward 21).
The five faced different charges including criminal abuse of office involving mainly CAMPFIRE funds and fraud, among others.
After the suspension Minister Garwe appointed an independent tribunal to give them a chance respond to the charges.
Tsholotsho RDC chief executive officer, Mr Nkululeko Sibanda, confirmed receiving communication from the minister about the outcome.
“According to the communication that I received from the ministry, the tribunal cleared Jabulani Sigagula (Ward 7) and Busani Vundla (Ward 6). Those who were discharged are Ward 1 councillor Witness Khumalo, Jabulani Ndlovu Ward 10 and Felix Tshuma from Ward 21,” he said.
The three fired councillors are reportedly challenging their dismal at the High Court.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commissioned has already proclaimed June 20 as the election date to fill the vacant council seats.
According to the notice, Nomination court to receive papers for those willing to contest the by election will sit on May 20 between 10am-4pm.
According to the same notice, the by election will also be held for Ward 9 in Chiredzi.
-@themkhust
