Tinaye AgereOnline Reporter
THE State has opposed granting bail to Harare Town Clerk, Hosiah Chisango, and the city’s principal contracts administrator in the procurement management unit, Artikins Mandaza, when the duo appeared at Harare Magistrate Court on Thursday facing criminal abuse of office charges.
They allegedly flouted tender procedures in the US$9,2million traffic lights installation tender.
Prosecutor Mr Lancelot Mutsokoti led evidence from Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission senior investigations officer Mr Owen Mutembwa.
Mr Mutembwa said the two were likely to interfere with witnesses.
He said Chisango is the council’s principal accounting officer and has the power to influence investigations.
“Documents can be at risk. Disturbing our investigations, Mandaza attempted to conceal tender documents,” said Mr Mutembwa.
“We were informed by the procurement department where he is stationed that he took with him the file when he got wind of the investigations.
“I have reasonable suspicion that Mandaza has information as to where our important file is.”
Harare Regional Magistrate Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa remanded Chisango and Mandaza in custody to tomorrow for the continuation of bail application.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter