Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
AN investigative team, appointed by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, to look into allegations of misconduct and mismanagement by officials and councillors at Gweru City Council (GCC), has arrived in the city to begin its inquiry.
The team is led by Ms Khonzani Ncube, Chief Director in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, and includes Mr Edward Njoma, Deputy Director in the ministry; Mr Kudakwashe Chakabva from the Local Authorities Board; and Mr Batanayi Mamwa from Financial Advisory Services.
In an interview yesterday, Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko confirmed the arrival of the investigators.
“Yes, the team dispatched by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works has arrived at the Town House to commence their task. The team also made a courtesy call on the Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube,” he said.
A letter from Minister Garwe addressed to Ms Ncube reads: “In terms of Section 311 (1) of the Urban Councils Act (Chapter 29:15), I hereby appoint you as chairperson of an investigation team to look into allegations of mismanagement and abuse of office levelled against policymakers and management of Gweru City Council.”
Minister Garwe stated that the investigation aims to determine whether Gweru City Council implemented recommendations outlined in the Ministry’s 2019 land audit. It will also examine the alleged use of estate funds for the purchase of vehicles for council officials last year.
“You are also to investigate the alleged conversion of aerodrome land for personal use by His Worship, the Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko, and to verify the conditions surrounding the Go Beer Breweries deal between the council and its partners,” the letter continued.
Minister Garwe further instructed the team to investigate any other issues related to service delivery. According to the letter, Ms Ncube is expected to compile a report of the findings and submit recommendations to the minister within ten days of the investigation’s commencement.
“You are expected to complete the investigation within ten days and submit a report to the Honourable Minister. Gweru City Council will bear the full cost of the inquiry,” it read.
The investigation comes at a time when the council is reportedly in arrears with December salaries and bonuses for lower-grade employees.
Gweru City Council has also been criticised for prioritising the purchase of vehicles for senior management while failing to repair potholes or provide a consistent water supply across the city.
Employees have reportedly been unable to access medical care, as the local authority is allegedly failing to remit its portion of contributions to the medical aid service provider.
