Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Municipal Correspondent
LOCAL Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has directed all local authorities to immediately report the arrest of any council official to his office, citing concerns over alleged abuse of existing procedures.
In a letter dated June 23, 2026, seen by The Herald, Minister Garwe said some officials were abusing a circular on reporting for work while on bail by making “frivolous and unwarranted allegations” against colleagues, disrupting service delivery.
“We have noted with great concern that some officials have been abusing the circular on reporting for work while on bail by making frivolous and unwarranted allegations against other council officials, thereby disrupting service delivery,” reads part of the letter.
He directed mayors and chairpersons to submit all documents relating to an arrested official, with the ministry determining the appropriate disciplinary action while criminal proceedings are underway.
The minister also cancelled the previous 2022 circular on reporting for work while on bail, saying interpretation of the new directive will rest with the Secretary for Local Government and Public Works.
