Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
The Government has warned traditional leaders against unbecoming conduct, saying those found in breach of the Constitution and the Traditional Leaders Act risk facing disciplinary action.
Speaking at an interface meeting with chairpersons of Provincial Assemblies of Chiefs, Directors of Local Government Services and District Development Coordinators in Harare on Tuesday, Local Government and Public Works Permanent Secretary Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti said the Government would issue a circular reminding chiefs of the ethical standards expected of them.
“In recent times, there has been increasing concerns raised by the public and the Government over the conduct of traditional leaders,” he said.
“The ministry will issue a circular to conscientise our revered traditional leaders on good and ethical conduct.”
He urged the National Council of Chiefs led by its President, Senator Mtshane Khumalo, to assist in shaping conduct through training and development programmes.
Eng Muguti said traditional leaders are a critical cog in the governance system and remain key in driving His Excellency President Mnangagwa’s mantra, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” and the devolution agenda through Village Development Committees (VIDCOs), Ward Development Committees (WADCOs) and Ward Assemblies.
He said chiefs also play a pivotal role in land allocation, environmental protection and dispute resolution, and must desist from allowing illegal settlement on communal and State land.
On administrative procedures, Eng Muguti directed traditional leaders to observe established channels when submitting matters by engaging District Development Coordinators (DDCs) as a first port of call, then Provincial Directors and the Department of Traditional Leadership Support Services (TLSS).
The meeting comes as Eng Muguti has just joined the ministry and served as an introductory platform to strengthen collaboration between Government administrative structures and the traditional leadership institution.
He also called for joint preparedness for natural disasters ahead of the anticipated 2026/27 El Nino phenomenon, saying DDCs, Provincial Directors and chiefs have a great responsibility in disaster risk management.
The Government, he said, is already coordinating and mobilising resources together with development partners and the private sector to build resilience for affected communities.
