admin
Musawenkosi Moyo
TRADE Union representatives are known for their work in protecting the rights and welfare of workers.
They are relied upon and trusted by workers to ensure that their needs are met.
However, one such representative has found himself behind enemy lines after allegedly betraying that trust by stealing from the same people he is meant to protect.
Pardon Mangena (55) a member of the Zimbabwe Federation for Trade Unions (ZFTU) appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Beverly Madzikatire facing two counts of theft of trust property.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was remanded in custody to 22 November 2024 for continuation of trial.
It is alleged that on 1 March 2024, Mangena, who was representing former Marmic Private Limited workers, received a US$1 800 payment from Willsgroove Farm Enterprises on behalf of his clients.
The money was meant to be shared among the former workers.
The court heard that instead of giving the money to the workers he allegedly converted it into his personal use.
It was also heard that on 10 May 2024, at Willsgroove Farm Enterprises, Mangena received US$2 500 and an additional US$800 from the company on behalf of the company’s former employees.
The accused allegedly used the money for his personal use instead of distributing it to the former employees.
The total amount stolen was US$5 100, and nothing has been recovered. The matter was reported to the police leading to Mangena’s arrest.
Online Reporter