Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
Beitbridge Councillors on Monday evening passed a vote of no confidence in Mayor Peter Pirato Mafuta, citing incompetence, dereliction of duty, and stalling of capital projects.
Most of the local authority’s councillors are from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
Following a lengthy full council meeting, the Councillors resolved to relieve the Mayor of his duties and allow Deputy Mayor John Manatsa to act in his capacity.
The Councillors said the Mayor will remain suspended pending the Minister of Local Government and Public Works’ response to their recommendation.
Six Councillors agreed on the motion put forward by Ward 4 Councillor Emmanuel Takutaku.
“As Councillors, we have lost confidence in the leadership of the Mayor, Mr Peter Pirato Mafuta,” reads part of the adopted motion.
“The Urban Councils Act requires the council, through the office of the Mayor, to supervise the executive. The council has several resolutions and projects that were budgeted for years back, but to date, they have not been completed.”
Several stalled projects were cited, including the upgrading of Dulivhadzimu Bus Terminus, the acquisition of a grader, and the construction of a sewer trunk in new suburbs.
They said the Mayor has failed to provide feedback on developmental issues raised during meetings.
In addition, the Councillors said the Mayor’s frequent unavailability has made it difficult to hold full council meetings, despite a set calendar.
The Councillors also expressed concern over the town’s water challenges since 2024.
“All the above is now making the residents doubt if the current crop of Councillors is good enough to represent them.”
