President Mnangagwa mulls action against councils lagging on audited accounts

Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Hub

President Mnangagwa has expressed concern over local authorities that are failing to produce up-to-date audited financial statements, warning that decisive action may soon be taken to enforce accountability and transparency.

Speaking during the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy here in Bulawayo, the President said he is contemplating two possible courses of action to address the persistent non-compliance by some councils.

“Am thinking of ways of dealing with local authorities that are lagging behind on their audited financial statements.

“Should they pull up their socks or we fire them? What should we do?” he asked the gathering.

The President’s remarks signal growing frustration within Government over financial indiscipline and the lack of transparency in some local authorities — challenges that continue to undermine service delivery and development.

Turning to staff welfare and recruitment practices, President Mnangagwa emphasised the need for fairness, meritocracy and accountability in public sector employment.

“As you employ, please practise openness [and] prudence. No to nepotism. One should be employed on qualifications,” he said.

He further urged councils to ensure workers are treated with dignity and receive fair compensation.

The President’s call comes amid Government’s broader drive to professionalise public service delivery and restore public confidence in local governance structures.