Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has warned council officials not to abuse Cabinet Authority for external travel for conference benchmarking.
According to a letter from the Ministry read by the town secretary for Epworth Local Board, Dr Wilton Mhanda at a full council on Tuesday, Cabinet authorities was only supposed to be granted solely for the purpose of representing the Republic of Zimbabwe, the province and local authorities in pursuit of national interest, investment, promotion, service delivery, partnerships and advancement of Government development agenda and is not a privilege for personal aggrandizement.
“It has come to the attention of the ministry that Cabinet Authority granted to mayors, council chairpersons and council officials for external travel conference benchmarking as an official engagement is being grossly abused,” read the letter.
“I wish to remind you that Cabinet authorities granted solely for the purpose of representing the Republic of Zimbabwe, your province and your local authority in pursuit of national interest, investment, promotion, service delivery, partnerships and advancement of the Government development agenda is not a privilege for personal aggrandisement.
“It has, however, been noted with great concern that some policymakers and officials treat national authority as an opportunity for personal shopping, expedition and social engagement, only becoming visible during official dinners and photo opportunities.
“This conduct affronts the dignity of your offices and the betrayal of public trust bestowed upon you. Such behaviour undermines the Government’s posterity measures and erodes public confidence in local authorities.”
