Town clerk suspended

town clerk yesterday informing him of the full council’s decision.
The suspension is without benefits and bars him from setting foot at council offices, contacting council employees, suppliers or customers without council approval.
He can only visit the council offices for a hearing.
“I am writing to advise you that as Mayor of Chitungwiza, I hereby suspend you from duty on the grounds of misconduct, dishonesty, negligence, misappropriation, theft and fraudulent activities in the conduct of your duties,” he said.
Allegations against Tanyanyiwa arose after he reportedly flouted tender procedures by awarding tenders to third parties exceeding US$10 000 without council approval.
He also allegedly engaged in business against the interest of council using council resources.
Alderman Chipiyo accused Tanyanyiwa of acting against a ministerial directive in relation to salary and allowances increments, employment of junior staff and giving out staff loans.
As a result, council employed 204 extra workers and management was awarded a 132 percent salary increment.
“You used your conduct and behaviour to abuse your authority as town clerk. Your conduct has damaged the reputation of council; secondly you have prejudiced the interests of council. Your conduct has caused harm to the financial interests of council,” said Alderman Chipiyo.
A member of the resuscitation team yesterday confirmed that eight revenue clerks had been recommended for arrest after investigations showed they were involved in fraudulent activities.
Local Government, Rural and Urban Development Minister Ignatius Chombo recently said those who looted council stands should declare.
Councillors yesterday gathered at the council offices to give evidence of the number of stands they hold or have personally sold.