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Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
The Justice Maphios Cheda-led Commission of Inquiry into Harare City Council’s affairs has denied claims circulating on social media that it apologised to Harare Mayor, Jacob Mafume, over allegations that he received a US$200 000 kickback from Quill Associates to secure a tender.
Speaking during today’s hearings, Justice Cheda issued a strong warning to members of the media, urging them to refrain from spreading false information about the Commission.
“We would like to put the record straight that this Commission has not directly or indirectly made any apology to the mayor and to any other witness who has given evidence towards him,” Justice Cheda said.
“The correct position is that the mayor is still giving evidence. The Commission will not tolerate anyone who is trying to directly or indirectly peddle falsehoods, which are calculated to intimidate, threaten or influence persons who are charged with investigating this matter.”
Justice Cheda also warned the media that they risk facing litigation for spreading information meant to derail the Commission.
“Members of the Press are advised to make sure that they report correctly and professionally the proceedings of this Commission. The members of the public and ratepayers are entitled to hear the truth of what is going on and we have not made any determination about any evidence that has been presented before us.”
Mayor Mafume was also advised to refrain from commenting on the Commission’s proceedings, particularly with regards to issues that have been discussed about him during the sittings.
The Commission is currently investigating various allegations, including claims that Mayor Mafume received a significant amount of money from Quill Associates.
He is still providing evidence, and the Commission will continue to hear his testimony next Tuesday when he returns to testify.
Earlier today, Mayor Mafume had demanded a retraction and an apology from evidence witness, Tapiwa Godzi, for describing his Number 9 Skymaster house plan as a forgery.
This came after building inspector, David Wadarwa, confirmed that he had signed the plan presented by Mayor Mafume.
Godzi made the allegations before the Commission.
Mafume claimed that Godzi’s allegations damaged his reputation as a mayor and a lawyer.
He pleaded with the Commission to order Godzi to retract his statement but another evidence witness, Joyce Shumba, suggested that the matter be put on hold.
She suggested that the recording of Godzi’s allegations be replayed after an adjournment before a ruling is made.
Retired Justice Cheda agreed to Shumba’s proposal.
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