Harare loses US$180 000 as town clerk’s suspension drags on

Blessings Chidakwa

Herald Reporter

Harare’ suspended town clerk, Engineer Hosiah Chisango, has received about US$180 000 over the six months he has been on suspension.

Harare Residents Trust director, Mr Precious Shumba criticised the prolonged suspension, arguing that it highlights the power struggles at the council.

“The only reason the town clerk is not back at work is that the Mayor wants to show who is in charge,” Mr Shumba said.

“An employee should never be on suspension for this long, as it becomes a huge financial burden. If necessary, he should have been suspended without salary to avoid losses to residents.”

Combined Harare Residents Association director, Mr Rueben Akili, also expressed concern over the continued suspension, saying residents are frustrated by the unnecessary financial drain on city funds.

According to evidence presented to the Commission of Inquiry into Harare’s Affairs, the town clerk earns US$27 000 per month, or US$30 000 when perks are included.

The lowest-paid executive at the council earns US$15 000 per month.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, who suspended Engineer Chisango in September, refused to comment on the matter.

Engineer Chisango was suspended over allegations of misconduct, including awarding a street lighting tender to a blacklisted company and renewing his contract indefinitely without authorisation.