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Herald Reporter
Government has issued a stern warning to rogue District Development Coordinators (DDCs) who are colluding with traditional leaders in illegally selling state land, particularly in wetlands, pastures, and farming areas.
This unauthorised conversion of land for residential purposes is not only against the law but also harmful to the environment.
Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti, the Permanent Secretary for Presidential Affairs in the Office of the President, highlighted that the corrupt parcelling of land often occurs at the grassroots level, escaping the notice of authorities.
“We are concerned about the rampant corruption happening at district levels. District Development Coordinators, traditional leaders and other officials are making decisions without the knowledge of Ministers of State or Permanent Secretaries of State.
“This is a disconnect that needs to be addressed. So, Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution are now going to be chairing any form of Provincial Economic Development,” he said.
Eng Muguti said Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution are in charge of their provinces.
“We cannot have local authorities or district offices making decisions that are not in line with the province’s direction. We encourage those who have bought land from land barons in communal areas to vacate. This practice is not only illegal but also harmful to the environment and the communities,” he said.
Online Reporter