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Driver: Confucius Institute

Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) Director General, Taguma Mahonde has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) for alleged corruption and corporate malpractices.
ZACC spokesperson Commissioner Thandiwe Mlobane confirmed the development in a telephone interview with <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2023/09/26/exclusive-zimstat-director-general-taguma-mahonde-arrested-by-zacc-over-alleged-corruption/">Nehanda Radio</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
Director General of Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, Taguma Mahonde has been arrested by ZACC for fraud. Investigations are still ongoing.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that Mahonde bought his service car, a Toyota Land Cruiser, which was originally priced at US$28 000, for only US$300 for the services rendered in three years.
He was also given a Land Rover Discovery which was bought in 2021. As a result, he ended up owning two vehicles in five years which is against principles of good governance.
Mahonde allegedly requested and received school fees allowances in US dollars for the 2023 first term despite that all employees at ZIMSTAT were being paid salaries in Zimbabwe dollars.
He was allegedly working in cahoots with the company’s Finance Director Romania Nyahwa to defraud the company of thousands of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

ZIMSTAT Director General Taguma Mahonde Arrested

Some rogue police officers are reportedly cashing in on the ongoing blitz dubbed “Tame the Traffic Jungle” by taking bribes from desperate motorists.
Investigations by <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/exposed-corrupt-cops-cash-in-on-blitz/">Business Times</a> this week show that some corrupt police officers have been soliciting and receiving bribes ranging between US$5 to US$10, even for serious offences.
Two police officers who were manning a roadblock close to OK Mart along Chiremba Road were allegedly taking turns to direct motorists to a nearby post where they placed the bribe money.
The drivers were being asked to hide the money behind huge rocks as directed by the police officers who would later collect the money at the end of the shift.
The cops were evidently avoiding being caught with the cash in their pockets as it constitutes a criminal offence.
An eyewitness of a bribe-taking incident by cops in Kambuzuma, close to Thuli Service station, in Harare, said:
<blockquote>
Our vehicle was flagged down by two police officers who claimed the vehicle was overloaded. There were four of us in the back and two in the front seat, the driver being the third.
The driver went out, briefly spoke to the police officers, came back to collect money then went back to them again.
After paying, we proceeded with our journey as if nothing had happened.
</blockquote>
In order to avoid being caught with bribe money by their superiors, corrupt cops have come up with new tricks.
They are now working in cahoots with some kombi crews and taxi drivers who will pass on the loot to them after duty.
The cops are also working with airtime and newspaper vendors operating within their vicinity who will be asked to keep the bribe money collected from kombi crews.
The rouge police officers are also targetting unlicensed drivers and unregistered vehicles.
A motorist who was forced to pay a bribe along Harare-Bulawayo Road in Warren Park said:
<blockquote>
I was driving a vehicle without the ZINARA license so I argued with them that I could not spare any money to give them since I was already on my way to pay.
One of them forced himself in my car and I offered US$10 and I was allowed to pass.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told Business Times that the bribe-taking cops will be arrested. He said:
<blockquote>
We are monitoring the situation and if there are police officers asking for bribes, if they are members of the public, especially motorists who are offering bribes, we will effect arrests.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, 20 September, Assistant Comm Nyathi said that a total of 26 443 arrests had been effected during the ongoing operation.
He said 708 arrests have been made on vehicles without route permits while 10 204 arrests have been made on illegal pirate taxis (mushikashika).
Nyathi also revealed that 296 motorists have been arrested for reckless driving, while 1 761 people have been arrested for touting.
A total of 695 vehicles have been impounded for moving on the roads with no registration plates.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rogue Cops Cash In On Operation “Tame the Traffic Jungle”

Former cabinet minister Ignatius Chombo has been cleared of all remaining criminal charges, as the prosecution withdrew two allegations against him. Chombo had been facing court proceedings without trial for the past five years, resulting in other charges being dismissed due to lack of evidence.
His initial arrest in 2017 was part of a crackdown on individuals associated with former President Robert Mugabe. The recent charges, which accused Chombo of showing favouritism to Alois Chiimba during his tenure as Local Government Minister, were found to lack supporting evidence by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). The allegations included the manufacturing of fraudulent documents for the acquisition of a property and the subsequent fraudulent transfer to Chimimba.
Earlier this year, charges relating to the misappropriation of a US$14 billion Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe capital expenditure loan were also withdrawn due to insufficient evidence. Kennedy Madekutsikwa from the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) confirmed the lack of evidence against Chombo.
There are concerns regarding the practice of “catch and release” of individuals perceived to be involved in corruption. This approach has led some to question the government’s commitment to effectively combating corruption. Authorities defend their actions by stating that they cannot detain individuals without sufficient evidence. Supporters argue that it is more prudent to conduct thorough investigations before making arrests, as baseless arrests would violate the rights of individuals and waste taxpayers’ money.
Since President Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed power in 2017, numerous prominent politicians have been arrested on corruption charges, but convictions have been few and far between. Some analysts suggest that the arrests may be politically motivated, targeting Mnangagwa’s opponents, while others believe they are merely a façade to create the impression of action against corruption. Notable figures arrested include Prisca Mupfumira, Obadiah Moyo, and Justice Mayor Wadyajena.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Former Minister Chombo Cleared As State Withdraws All Corruption Charges

Three Zimbabwe Road Administration (Zinara) employees and a technician from a local company were brought before Harare magistrate Taurai Manuwere on Monday on charges of fraud and money laundering. The four stand accused of converting toll fees collected from motorists passing through the Shamva tollgate, amounting to US$150,000, to their own use.
The accused were identified as Nyaradzo Gusha, Flavian Kundishora, and Tanaka Theresa Magaisa, who are Zinara employees stationed at the Shamva tollgate, and Patson Tavengwa, a field technician at 10-10 Technologies, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014743/zinara-loses-us150-000-in-tollgate-scam">NewsDay</a> reported.
The State alleges that on July 19, Tavengwa, who was responsible for installing and repairing boom gates and technical equipment at the tollgates, conspired with his accomplices to install an illegal boom override system. This system bypassed the normal operating system, allowing the four accused to receive funds from the public under the pretence that the funds were being channelled to Zinara.
The accused were remanded in custody to await a bail ruling scheduled for tomorrow. The State’s total prejudice was US$150,000, and no funds have been recovered as yet.
Zinara is a government agency responsible for the management, maintenance, and development of the country’s road network. It is tasked with collecting toll fees, vehicle licensing fees, and other revenue streams to fund road infrastructure maintenance and construction projects across the country.
Zinara plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient transportation in Zimbabwe, which is essential for economic growth and social development. The agency’s responsibilities include road construction, maintenance, and repair, as well as the provision of road safety measures, such as traffic lights, road signs, and speed limits.
The reports of corruption at Zinara are particularly concerning given the state of some of Zimbabwe’s roads. Many of the country’s roads are in poor condition, with potholes, inadequate signage, and poorly maintained infrastructure, making them dangerous for motorists and pedestrians alike. In recent years, there have been reports of fatal accidents on some of the country’s major highways, leading to calls for urgent action to improve road safety.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZINARA Employees Convert US$150 000 Toll Fees To Personal Use

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has vowed to take action against officials implicated in looting the state-run pension fund following a new forensic audit.
In an interview with the Zimbabwe Independent, NSSA board chairman Emmanuel Fundira said that the authority was working through the audit before taking any action. Fundira stated that NSSA wanted to “clear all the mess which has been existing in NSSA”. He said:
<blockquote>
We want to clear all the mess which has been existing in Nssa. There have been correct and serious observations made in the audit and we are going to follow that as a bible and make sure that people are accountable for their transgressions.
</blockquote>
Fundira who was appointed chairman in May spoke after a ceremony to honour outstanding insurers at the Independent Insurance Survey Awards 2023 on Wednesday this week.
The announcement follows the authority’s success at the 2023 Good Practice Awards in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where NSSA won three certificates of merit in recognition of service delivery initiatives. NSSA also won three awards at the Independent Insurance Survey Awards 2023.
NSSA’s acting general manager, Charles Shava, said that the awards demonstrate the authority’s journey towards service delivery excellence. He said NSSA’s vision is to become a world-class provider of social security by 2030, and Shava emphasised the importance of investing in technology to achieve this goal.
NSSA has over the years lost millions of dollars through corruption by some of the officials and some senior government officials, including former Public Service minister Priscah Mupfumira, who allegedly prejudiced the authority of US$6.5 million. The case is still pending. Corruption has resulted in the authority’s inability to pay pensioners. Some government retirees are reportedly receiving only US$35 as their pension pay-outs, despite decades of loyal service.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

NSSA Vows To Act On Officials Implicated In Looting Pension Fund

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has said corruption is undermining the credibility of the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA).
Speaking at ZINARA’s annual general meeting held at a local hotel in Harare this week, Mhona said:
<blockquote>
Corruption undermines the credibility of the organisation and erodes public trust in the Road Fund.
</blockquote>
He urged ZINARA to work with various stakeholders including the media to improve its image. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014177/corruption-damaging-zinara-image-minister">Mhona said</a>:
<blockquote>
This includes partnering with civil society organisations where possible and the media to promote awareness of the organisation’s mandate, brand at large and also the good things being done which may at times go unnoticed.
This includes implementing strict procurement procedures to realise value for money, ensuring that contracts are awarded fairly and transparently, and conducting regular audits to identify and address irregularities.
</blockquote>
In December 2021, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo said ZINARA, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were the most corrupt state departments.
Last month, a ZINARA licensing officer Patricia Chikorwe, stationed at the Harare Exhibition Park Branch, was sentenced to three years in jail after she was convicted of 258 counts of criminal abuse of office for manipulating the vehicle licensing system, resulting in a loss of potential revenue of US$168,458 for ZINARA.
In February last year, the ZACC arrested 12 ZINARA employees for fraud involving $9,8 million after they created fake tap cards which they swiped for motorists at the Shurugwi tollgate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Corruption Undermining ZINARA's Credibility - Minister Mhona

Award-winning journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said that the 32 choppers bought by the Government from Russia are overpriced and the purchase of the planes is a manifestation of misplaced priorities.
Posting on Twitter, Chin’ono said each Kazan Ansat chopper costs US$2.5 million but the Zimbabwean Government paid US$10 million for each. <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1659493010688581632?s=20">Wrote Chin’ono</a>:
<blockquote>
Now that we know a brand new Kazan Ansat helicopter like the ones ZANUPF Government brought from Russia costs US$2.5 million, and that ZANU PF said it paid US$10 million for each of the 32 choppers totaling US$320 million, do you now see what I meant when I said that this was looting of public funds!
Opposition politicians, please go and do your work, the data is here, and whilst at it, find out whether this was not a donation after all.
If it wasn’t a donation, find out if these choppers are brand new.
If there are brand new, it means US$240 million was LOOTED.
US$240 million would run all of Zimbabwe’s central hospitals for 5 years, it would buy 120 radiotherapy cancer treatment machines, it would build 6,486 maternity theaters.
Zimbabwe doesn’t have a single working radiotherapy cancer machine, its biggest hospital only has one working maternity theater built in 1977 by Ian Smith’s regime.
Its central hospitals don’t have IV paracetamol and the whole caps Itai city has less than 15 dialysis machines that are working.
A dialysis machine costs as little as US$2000, the loot of US$240 million would buy 120,000 dialysis machines!
What was that Statutory Instrument for, by the way, the illegal one that didn’t want you to know the price of hospital equipment including ambulances?
Air ambulances, oh, I see!
</blockquote>
According to Team Pachedu, Russia “dumped” the helicopters in Zimbabwe as is no more engine support for Ansat helicopters which the southern African country bought. <a href="https://twitter.com/PacheduZW/status/1659580796112338948">Said Team Pachedu</a>:
<blockquote>
Russia dumped helicopters in Zimbabwe. Pratt &amp; Whitney (Canada) stopped supplying Russia with PW207K engines due to sanctions &amp; Russia is now replacing them with Russian VK-650V engines.
There is no more engine support for Ansat helicopters and these are what Zimbabwe got.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/zimbabwe-buys-32-russian-choppers-for-inflated-us320-million/">ZimLive</a>, the Ansat is built to a classic single-rotor design with a four-blade main rotor and a two-blade tail rotor.
It has a top speed of 275 km/h and can fly non-stop for 505 kilometers at a maximum height of 18,000 feet (5,500 meters).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"32 Choppers Bought From Russia Are Overpriced"

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced that the procurement details of public health assets including construction materials, biomedical equipment, pharmaceuticals, vehicles and hospital equipment, among other health-related goods will not be disclosed in the “national interest”.
According to General Notice 635 of 2023, the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Misheck Sibanda said the declaration is in line with section 3(6) of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act [Chapter 22:23]. Reads the General Notice in part:
<blockquote>
PUBLIC PROCUREMENT AND DISPOSAL OF PUBLIC ASSETS ACT [CHAPTER 22:23]
Special Procurements in the Public Interest: Health Sector
IT is hereby notified that the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe has, in terms of section 3(6) of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act [Chapter 22:23], declared the following to be of national interest and shall not be publicly disclosed-
(1) construction equipment and materials;
(2) biomedical and medical equipment;
(3) medicines and drugs (pharmaceuticals);
(4) vehicles including ambulances;
(5) laboratory equipment, chemicals and accessories;
(6) hospital protective equipment; and
(7) repairs and maintenance services of hospital equipment and machinery.
</blockquote>
The declaration has, however, raised concern among citizens as it will likely promote corruption among senior Government officials since public procurement deals involving the above-mentioned goods will not be disclosed to members of the public.
Commenting on the General Notice, Harare lawyer, Fadzayi Mahere, who is the opposition Citizens’ Coalition Change (CCC) spokesperson, said:
<blockquote>
Why must procurement details of construction materials, biomedical equipment, pharmaceuticals, vehicles, or hospital equipment be hidden?
Why does the Govt hate transparency? Whose interests are being protected? Why create this massive scope for looting?
</blockquote>
It is important to note that public procurement in Zimbabwe is governed by the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act of 2017.
The Act provides for the regulation, control and monitoring of public procurement processes to ensure that they are transparent, fair, competitive, cost-effective and in accordance with the law.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Declares Procurement Of Public Health Assets Should Not Be Disclosed

Four Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) managers appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court on Thursday on allegations of stealing US$702 386 from the company which was meant for drug purchases.
PSMAS CEO Farai Muchena, 54, appeared before Harare magistrate Stanford Mambanje jointly charged with Victor Chaipa, 49, Cosmas Mukwesha, 50, and Polite Mugwagwa, 41.
Chaipa is PSMAS’ strategy performance executive, Mukwesha group secretary, and Mugwagwa the performance manager.
The four were not asked to plead to theft charges and were remanded in custody pending bail applications.
Allegations were that in 2020, the PSMAS board passed a resolution authorising management to venture into gold trade.
The objective was to generate foreign currency for the procurement of pharmaceutical drugs and other related medical equipment.
The board resolved that staff members from PSMAS’ procurement department were to act as buyers and agents for buying the gold on behalf of the medical aid scheme.
PSMAS had other investment projects including cannabis growing and a shareholding in a bank.
On 18 February 2021, PSMAS executives, acting on the board resolution, allegedly handed over the projects of gold buying, cannabis growing and the micro finance business to subsidiary, Premier Service Holding Company after opting instead to focus on their core business – health insurance.
It is further alleged that on 13 July 2021, Muchena sent a memo to PSMAS’ principal officer requesting funding for the gold project, which had been allocated to the holding company for implementation.
The funding request amounted to US$237,794, with US$108,674 as pre-trading funding, alleges the prosecution.
Muchena is also alleged to have advised PSMAS about the formation of a company styled Claydust, solely for buying and selling gold to Fidelity.
In response, PSMAS disposed of its Zimbabwe Bank (ZB) shares totalling 65,9643 valued at US$38,000 in order to fund the gold-buying project.
Muchena, Chaipa, Mukwesha and Mugwagwa, acting in connivance, then deviated from using the society’s procurement team to buy gold.
Instead, the suspects allegedly engaged 18 private agencies unknown to PSMAS for gold buying.
From 2019 to 2022 the accused persons allegedly received gold from five of the private agencies which were then sold to Fidelity and they realised US $ 702 386,80 and converted the money to their own use.
External auditors, RBM Auditors, were hired to investigate. The audit concluded that the suspects received and converted all the money realised from the sale of gold to Fidelity Printers for their own use.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four PSMAS Executives Accused Of Stealing US$700k To Buy Gold

Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono has said political activist Jacob Ngarivhume is being persecuted for fighting corruption.
Ngarivhume, who was represented by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, was convicted by Harare Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka on Thursday on charges of inciting public violence after a full trial.
On Friday, Ngarivhume was sentenced to four years imprisonment by Chakanyuka but 12 months were conditionally suspended, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/zimlive/status/1651966094490456065">ZimLive</a>.
Posting on Facebook, Chin’ono said it was not only Ngarivhume who was on trial, but every Zimbabwean’s constitutional rights guaranteed by the Zimbabwean constitution was also on trial. He wrote:
<blockquote>
As Zimbabwean political activist Jacob Ngarivhume awaits his sentence this morning after being convicted yesterday for something underwritten in our constitution, we should all remember that Jacob is only a symbol.
What was on trial and is being sentenced today is everyone’s right to exercise YOUR constitutional rights guaranteed by the Zimbabwean constitution.
It is that very same constitution that was on trial and is being sentenced.
Consequent to understanding that reality should also make us know that selective solidarity shows that we are not yet ready to fight for everyone’s rights and the national cause, we are still fighting for personalities.
It means we are not yet ready to fight for OUR and EVERYONE’S freedom.
Stand tall Jacob knowing that your persecution is everyone’s persecution.
All those who are genuinely pursuing respect for the rule of law and constitutionalism stand with you.
Whatever sentence is delivered this morning, we will stand with you because fighting against corruption should never be criminalized!
We take comfort as ordinary citizens in seeing all the messages of solidarity from some bold opposition leaders who understand what this is about.
It is not about individuals being persecuted, it is about what those individuals are being persecuted for, our quest for freedom for all and a better society where we are governed by the law, not political orders.
Solidarity gives those being persecuted strength to carry on, they are not fighting for themselves, they are fighting for all of us.
Understanding that is the beginning of political wisdom which should reside in all of us.
</blockquote>
Incitement to public violence is defined as the act of urging, encouraging, or advocating for the use of violence by members of the public against other individuals or groups. The offense carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The Government has been accused of using the charge of incitement to public violence to suppress dissent and opposition.
Several political activists, journalists, and other individuals who speak out against the ruling party or its policies have been arrested and charged with incitement to public violence.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula New</a>

Ngarivhume Being Persecuted For Fighting Corruption - Chin'ono

The Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Chitungwiza Municipality Housing and Community Service Director, Hazel Sithole for corruption after she allegedly leased commercial stands to 30 beneficiaries on an area reserved as an open space in 2019.
Sithole has since appeared in court charged with Criminal Abuse of Duty as a Public Officer.
She was granted ZWL$100 000 and will be back in court on 31 July 2023. ZACC said in a statement:
<blockquote>
ZACC has arrested Chitungwiza Municipality Housing and Community Service Director, Hazel Sithole for Criminal Abuse of Duty as a Public Officer.
In 2019, the accused used her authority to lease commercial stands to 30 beneficiaries in an area reserved as open space.
The accused person’s actions were in conflict with Chitungwiza Municipality Housing Policy which provides that commercial stands are offered with council resolution and through competitive bidding. Her actions were intended to show favour to the beneficiaries.
Hazel Sithole appeared in court and was given ZWL 100 000.00 bail. She will be back in court on 31 July 2023.
</blockquote>
Criminal Abuse of Duty as a Public Officer is a criminal offence that is defined under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
It occurs when a public officer, such as a government official or civil servant, abuses their position of authority for personal gain or to cause harm to another person.
The offence is committed when a public officer wilfully neglects to perform their duty without reasonable excuse, unlawfully confers a benefit on themselves or another person or unlawfully causes harm or loss to another person.
The offence carries a penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chitungwiza Housing Director Arrested Over Corrupt Stands Deals

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has warned business executives not to engage in corrupt activities saying the Government has zero tolerance for corruption.
Chiwenga issued the warning on Wednesday during a speech to business leaders and investors attending the International Business Conference at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo. He said:
<blockquote>
I urge you to embrace the tenets of good corporate governance. President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has declared zero tolerance for corruption. Therefore, do not be found on the wrong side of the law.
</blockquote>
Transparency International’s 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Zimbabwe among the most corrupt countries in the world.
Zimbabwe scored 23 on a scale from 0 (“highly corrupt”) to 100 (“very clean”). 
When ranked by score, Zimbabwe ranked 157th among the 180 countries in the Index, where the country ranked last is perceived to have the most corrupt public sector.
Corruption has been a longstanding problem in Zimbabwe and some of the key areas where it has been reported include public procurement, the mining sector, land redistribution, and the judiciary.
Corruption has undermined public trust in government institutions, eroded investor confidence, and resulted in the misallocation of resources.
Meanwhile, efforts to combat corruption have been limited, with many anti-corruption agencies such as ZACC and ZRP lacking the necessary resources and independence to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of corruption.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chiwenga Warns Business Executives Over Corruption

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has engaged the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to help fight the practice of charging fees for extra lessons by teachers.
In an interview with the <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/corruption-charges-for-teachers-demanding-extra-lessons-fee/">Sunday News</a>, the Ministry’s Director of Communication and Advocacy Taungana Ndoro said teachers who charge fees for extra lessons will be arrested for corruption. He said:
<blockquote>
With regard to extra lessons, the Ministry’s position remains clear. Paid extra lessons, particularly during the school term remain illegal and parents and guardians are advised not to continue feeding the beast by continuously paying for these extra lessons as they exacerbate the situation that we are currently facing.
This practise of paying for extra lessons is a chargeable offence and an act of misconduct.
It is criminal abuse of office and corruption basically which is why we are working together with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission to curb this scourge.
</blockquote>
Ndoro said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is working with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that teachers charging for extra lessons are penalised. He said:
<blockquote>
We are also working with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other authorities to try and combat this.
Parents and teachers should both be held liable under the law for aiding and abetting this form of corruption.
The Ministry has put in place platforms on social media where people can report such practise so that action is immediately taken in conjunction with the relevant authorities.
Parents can send reports to our WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter or even to our websites. You can even call our toll-free line, directly to our offices so that we can together tackle this scourge and ensure that all our learners continue to receive quality education and no one, and no place is left behind.
</blockquote>
He said parents who pay teachers for extra lessons are also at risk of facing corruption charges. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
The idea of feeding the beast means that parents are complicit in aiding teachers that are demanding illicit payments for extra lessons and in most cases, these teachers end up not doing the job for which they are already paid for, for which they are already on a government salary, for which they are already on a responsible authority’s salary.
Therefore, these paid-for extra lessons remain illegal and banned.
</blockquote>
On 30 March, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education announced a ban on holiday lessons, saying learners needed time to rest.
The Ministry also argued that the 2023 school calendar was never interrupted by COVID-19 hence there was no need for schools and teachers to conduct extra lessons during this April holiday.
However, teachers across the country have defied the ban saying making learners pay for extra lessons is a way of supplementing their salaries.
Some high school boarding teachers are reportedly renting buildings in the central business district as well as churches to conduct extra lessons and charging US$10 per subject.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Extra Lessons: Teachers, Parents Face Corruption Charges - Govt

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is working with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to provide content that will be taught to learners to ensure that they shun corruption from a young age.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zacc-to-take-anti-corruption-lessons-into-classrooms/">The Herald</a>, Justice Matanda-Moyo said the provision of anti-corruption education in schools is a stepping stone towards the realisation of a corruption-free country at all levels. She said:
<blockquote>
ZACC is currently working with the Curriculum Development Unit in the Ministry of Primary (and Secondary) Education to input teachable content in school syllabi.
The establishment of Anti-Corruption Clubs in schools and colleges, and the appointment of Anti-Corruption champions in both urban and rural communities are tools that will be used.
Mainstreaming anti-corruption content in the formal school curriculum is an important preventative tool.
</blockquote>
She said ZACC will work with religious groups in raising anti-corruption awareness and also disseminate anti-corruption information on both electronic and print media.
Matanda-Moyo also said ZACC was working on correcting the public’s perception that it was a useless organisation with no capacity to fight corruption.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Anti-corruption Content To Be Added To School Syllabi

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is this year targetting to recover cash and assets valued at over US$1 billion that were acquired through proceeds of crime.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zacc-hunts-for-us1-billion-loot">The Sunday Mail</a>, ZACC chairperson Justice Loyce Matanda-Moyo expressed confidence that the target will be attained. Said Matanda-Moyo:
<blockquote>
For asset recovery this quarter, investigations into unexplained wealth are at advanced stages and the commission is confident that by the end of the year, the commission will have seized assets valued at US$1 billion…
The commission is on course and has made 61 arrests and referred 68 completed dockets to the National Prosecuting Authority.
</blockquote>
She said ZACC has already secured two high-profile convictions, that is, former Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) chief executive officer Saston Muzenda and Karoi provincial magistrate Felix Chauromwe.
Muzenda (48) was recently sentenced to 36 months in jail after being convicted of criminal abuse of office.
Chauromwe was jailed for his unlawful release from remand of three Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) officers in 2021.
Justice Matanda-Moyo said that ZACC will take the war against corruption to the private sector, especially mining, civil society and non-governmental organisations.
She added that ZACC will follow leads from various Auditor-General’s reports and ensure the alleged culprits are prosecuted.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Targets US$1 Billion Unexplained Wealth

Former Zimbabwe National Roads Administration (ZINARA) chief executive officer Saston Muzenda (48) has been jailed for 36 months for corruption, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/former-zinara-boss-jailed-for-corruption/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Muzenda was charged with criminal abuse of office as a public officer and was convicted after a full trial.
However, six months of his sentence was suspended on condition he doesn’t commit a similar offence in the next five years.
He will, therefore, serve an effective 30 months.
Muzenda was found guilty of unlawfully awarding a tender to an undeserving security company, at the expense of two other firms, which had been awarded the job.
He allowed Ex-Combatants Security company to provide services to ZINARA when the ZINARA board had resolved to give the job to Morden Security and Real Star Security.
Allegations were that in June 2019, Modern Security and Real Star Security were awarded tenders to provide services at ZINARA’s Northern and Southern regions from September 1 of the same year.
Ex-Combatants and National Eye Security’s contracts were expected to end on August 31, 2019, before Modern Security and Real Star Security took over.
Muzenda, who was acting ZINARA CEO, had already allowed Ex-Combatants Security to add security guards in areas that were manned by National Eye Security. Prosecutors said:
<blockquote>
The accused person went on to write a letter to the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) seeking the extension of the contract for a further 12 months.
</blockquote>
PRAZ asked Muzenda for the contracts and he responded by saying he had already extended Ex-Combatants Security’s contract by 12 months. Appearing for the State:
<blockquote>
This was unlawful and unexpected of the accused person who held public office at the time.
ZINARA had to make payments amounting to ZWD300 948 to Ex- Combatants Security after receiving a letter from PRAZ instructing them to terminate their contract with the security company.
</blockquote>
During the trial, Muzenda denied the charges. He argued that the security companies were already involved in contractual disputes when he assumed the position of CEO at ZINARA.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former ZINARA CEO Jailed 36 Months For Corruption

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa says Zimbabwe’s current leadership is corrupt and rotten to the core.
Chamisa made the remarks in response to Thursday’s latest Al Jazeera investigation “Gold Mafia”, which uncovered criminals driving gold smuggling and money laundering worth billions of dollars in Southern Africa. Chamisa tweeted:
<blockquote>
The fish rots from the head #Aljazeeradocumentary exposes the extent of the rot at the top, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg.
This clearly shows how corrupt, rotten and broken leadership has destroyed a jewel and great country. Zimbabwe is not poor, it’s just poorly governed.
</blockquote>
In a follow-up statement, CCC condemned the corruption, saying the provision of social services in the country has collapsed while millions are being looted. The opposition party said:
<blockquote>
While our health, education and infrastructure systems are on their deathbed, the few elites who are connected to government officials are making at least US$80 million every month through one of our valuable natural resources, gold.
</blockquote>
On Thursday, 23 March, Al Jazeera released Episode One of Gold Mafia (The Laundry Service) a four-part series.
Uebert Angel, a new-age pastor who was appointed a special envoy and ambassador-at-large to Europe and the Americas by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2021, his deputy Rikki Doolan, and Mnangagwa’s niece Henrietta Rushwaya, who is the president of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), are named as part of the mafia.
In “The Laundry Service” episode, a former accountant of Kamlesh Pattni, a gold smuggler implicated in a scandal that robbed Kenya of 10 percent of its GDP in the 1990s, said his former boss is duping Zimbabwean government officials. Said the former accountant:
<blockquote>
He (Pattni) exports jewellery and gold bars to Dubai and the rest of the world. In exchange, he has to bring foreign currency to Zimbabwe. On paper, he is bringing money to Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
The accountant said Pattni would declare a fraction of the value of Zimbabwean gold sold abroad and keep the rest of the proceeds out of the country.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: Zimbabwe's Leadership Rotten To The Core - Chamisa

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) says it is closely following the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Aljazeera_2023_Zimbabwe_Corruption_Documentary">Al Jazeera documentary</a> into alleged gold smuggling and money laundering in the country.
On Thursday, 23 March, Al Jazeera released Episode One (The Laundry Service) of a four-part series on the alleged smuggling of gold in Zimbabwe by well-connected individuals and their associates. ZACC said in a tweet:
<blockquote>
@ZACConline is closely following the Aljazeera broadcast.
</blockquote>
Gold Mafia, a four-part series by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit, shows how Zimbabwean government officials and businesspeople are profiting off gold smuggling and money laundering.
The investigation reveals how criminals use gold to whitewash billions of dirty money through a web of shell companies, fake invoices and paid-off officials.
Uebert Angel, a pastor who was appointed a special envoy and ambassador-at-large to Europe and the Americas by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2021, his deputy Rikki Doolan, and Mnangagwa’s niece Henrietta Rushwaya, who is the president of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), are named as part of the mafia.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC "Closely Following" Al Jazeera Broadcast

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) on Thursday arrested National Social Security (NSSA) acting chief executive Charles Shava for fraud involving $12 246 571,48.
Shava allegedly altered a board resolution that had rejected the proposed allowances for four NSSA doctors.
It is alleged that Shava caused the human resources manager to pay the allowances without approval, claiming the board had approved the allowances.
He was taken to Avondale Police Station where he was detained pending his court appearance on Friday.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NSSA Acting CEO Charles Shava Arrested On Fraud Allegations

International English-language news channel, Al Jazeera, has postponed the airing of a documentary about alleged corruption and money laundering by Zimbabwean politicians and their associates.
The filming of the four-part documentary was scheduled to start this Thursday at 12 PM Central African Time.
It has since emerged that the film’s broadcast has not happened and this sparked debate on social media, with some commentators speculating that the Qatari-based broadcaster has been paid to “kill the story”.
However, Zimbabwean award-winning journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono said Al Jazeera cannot be bought. <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1631224975557373953?s=20">He tweeted</a>:
<blockquote>
I can tell you that Al Jazeera can’t be bought! They have postponed, not shelved their film’s broadcast.
The 4 Zimbabwe films were made by [Al Jazeera Investigations], which is independent of the Al Jaz channel.
An insider said they are sorting out a technical issue.
</blockquote>
A snippet of the documentary featuring ZANU PF affiliate and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s appointed ambassador at large, Uebert Angel has gone viral on social media.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-admits-to-corruption-says-making-efforts-to-arrest-individuals-involved/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Angel, a preacher of the prosperity gospel, was dragged to court to answer charges of fraud involving a luxury vehicle worth US$300 000 in 2015.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Al Jazeera Investigations On Zimbabwe Broadcast Postponed Due To "A Technical Issue"

The government has admitted that there is rampant corruption, smuggling of minerals, and money laundering in the country.
The Permanent Secretary of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Ndavaningi Mangwana, said the government is committed to dealing with the vices.
He was responding to reports that Al Jazeera is set to expose corrupt Zimbabwean politicians and their associates in a documentary set to be aired this March. <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmangwana/status/1630798718877282305">Tweeted Mangwana</a>:
<blockquote>
Facts:-Is there corruption in Zimbabwe? Yes. -Is there smuggling of minerals and forex out of the country? Yes -Is there money laundering in Zimbabwe? Yes (including by NGOs) -Is the Government fully committed to getting rid of all the above ills? That’s a fact.
</blockquote>
According to Zimbabwean award-winning journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono, filming of the Al Jazeera documentary started two years ago and chronicles plundering and money laundering in the country.
Chin’ono said the film producers have shown the films to a select group of corruption experts and journalists to give their comments before the documentary is broadcasted.
A snippet of the documentary featuring ZANU PF affiliate and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s appointed ambassador at large, Uebert Angel has gone viral on social media.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-admits-to-corruption-says-making-efforts-to-arrest-individuals-involved/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Angel, a preacher of the prosperity gospel, was dragged to court to answer charges of fraud involving a luxury vehicle worth US$300 000 in 2015.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Govt Admits To Corruption, Smuggling And Money Laundering

International English-language news channel, Al Jazeera, is set to expose corrupt Zimbabwean politicians and their associates in a documentary set to be aired this March.
Posting on his social media pages, Zimbabwean award-winning journalist and filmmaker Hopewell Chin’ono said the film producers have shown the films to a select group of corruption experts and journalists to give their comments before the documentary is broadcasted.
Chin’ono said the documentary films will expose “astonishing looting, plunder and laundering in Zimbabwe” by ZANU PF officials and their associates. <a href="https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1630137794860392450?s=20">He wrote</a>:
<blockquote>
International news network, Aljazeera will be broadcasting mind-blowing documentary films in March showing astonishing looting, plunder and laundering in Zimbabwe.
The ZANU PF crooks and their surrogates were filmed undercover for 2 years, as they spoke about how they do it!
The film producers have shown the films to a select group of corruption experts and journalists to look at, and give their comment on the exposures.
The documentary films were made by the Al Jazeera Investigative Journalism Directorate. They filmed them since 2021.
</blockquote>
Businessman and social commentator Kuda Musasiwa said the Al Jazeera documentary should serve as a lesson to people not to talk too much. He <a href="https://twitter.com/begottensun/status/1630890260447019008?s=20">tweeted</a>:
<blockquote>
The @AlJazeera Documentary is lesson 101 of NOT talking a span. Fish get caught by opening their mouth. It’s not a secret if anyone else knows. Don’t Talk a Span. Talking a span is bad.
</blockquote>
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Al Jazeera Investigations To Expose "Astonishing" Plunder, Looting In Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)’s Commercial Crimes Unit arrested two more suspects in the Rusape Town Council stands corruption scandal.
Some senior employees in the local authority’s housing department had already been nabbed over the scandal.
Some Rusape Town Council staff members and their associates allegedly defrauded the local authority and individuals of over US$500 000 through illegal residential stands deals.
The <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/rusape-stands-racket-sucks-two-more/">Manica Post</a> reported that last week, Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers arrested two former interns who were allegedly working with former housing clerk, Jacob Chiraswa, who is on the run.
The trio allegedly duped two individuals of US$18 000 after fraudulently selling them the local authority’s stands.
The two suspects, Simbarashe Machemedze (27) and Tafadzwa Nyakuwanikwa (27) appeared separately before Rusape magistrate, Annie Ndiraya.
They were granted $50 000 bail each and remanded to 6 March.
Prosecutor, Marlon Makamba, alleged that Machemedze, working in cahoots with Chiraswa, sold a residential stand to Simbarashe Matunga after misleading him that it belonged to him (Machemedze). Said the prosecutor:
<blockquote>
Sometime in December 2021, Mr Matunga was looking for a residential stand in Rusape and got information that Machemedze was selling a stand.
When Mr Matunga approached him, Machemedze told him that he was selling his stand along Nyanga Drive in Rusape.
Machemedze allowed Mr Matunga to view the stand and asked for US$10 500 for it. 
Machemedze told Mr Matunga that he would facilitate the change of ownership of the said property once the whole amount was paid.
Machemedze then connived with Jacob Chiraswa and manipulated the Rusape Town Council’s filling system.
The two registered the stand into the complainant’s name to make Mr Matunga believe that the transaction was genuine.
</blockquote>
The matter only came to light when Matunga was about to develop the stand and was told that the stand was fraudulently transferred into his name.
He then reported the matter to the police leading to Machemedze’s arrest.
Makamba told the court that Nyakuwanikwa and Chiraswa allegedly used the same method to dupe Egypt Mashiri. He said:
<blockquote>
Sometime in April 2021, Nyakuwanikwa connived with Chiraswa to defraud unsuspecting home-seekers.
Chiraswa identified Stand Number 4184, Crocodile, which was among stands reserved for the council.
Nyakuwanikwa approached Mr Mashiri and advised him that Rusape Town Council was selling the said stand for US$8 000. 
Nyakuwanikwa told Mr Mashiri that the stand would be transferred into the buyer’s name immediately after the payment of the purchase price.
The complainant sourced US$7 500 from his South Africa-based brother, Mr Misheck Mashiri.
He supplied his brother’s details to the Nyakuwanikwa who then took them to Chiraswa who fraudulently changed the stand details in the council’s system into Mr Misheck Mashiri’s name.
Nyakuwanikwa and Chiraswa did not issue a receipt to Mr Mashiri and converted the money to their own use. Mr Mashiri began to construct a house on the stand.
He approached Rusape Town Council for the third stage approval of his proposed house and that is when he was advised to stop any further developments since the stand had been fraudulently issued.
</blockquote>

Two Interns Implicated In Rusape Residential Stands Corruption Scandal

Gokwe-Nembudziya MP, Justice Mayor Wadyajena (ZANU PF), and his co-accused who were facing fraud charges among other allegations have been freed after the court granted their application for refusal of further remand.
Wadyajena, COTTCO bosses Pius Manamike, Maxmore Njanji, Chiedza Danha and Fortunate Molai were jointly appearing in court on fraud, money laundering, and concealing a transaction from a principal charges.
They were accused of embezzling funds meant for acquiring bale cables and buying trucks.
Wadyajena’s Mayor Logistics and Danha’s Pierpoint Moncroix were also being charged.
Speaking to <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a> after the court ruling on Monday, 06 February, Wadyajena’s lawyer, Oliver Marwa, said his client is now a free man. He said:
<blockquote>
Once an accused person is no longer in remand, that case is complete for the purposes of the records and there is no longer a fetter on the accused’s right to liberty. They can do as they please, and they can have their passport back.
They can, if they so wish, withdraw their bail recognizance or the money that they deposited for bail with the clerk of court. Essentially, they are free individuals henceforth.
</blockquote>

Wadyajena, COTTCO Managers Removed From Remand

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is investigating executives from the Industrial Development Corporation of Zimbabwe (IDC) who reportedly attempted to “bribe” President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga using fertilisers.
The probe was launched after some disgruntled IDC employees presented a dossier to ZACC of alleged corrupt activities by IDC general manager Winstone Makamure and chairperson Tome that included the flouting of tender procedures.
Makamure and Tome allegedly bought fertilisers without following the due tender process and tried to donate them to Mnangagwa and Chiwenga.
The two IDC executives were allegedly trying to influence the two leaders to give them an audience so that they could defend themselves against corruption allegations levelled against them.
However, Mnangagwa and Chiwenga are said to have refused to entertain Makamure and Tome. Part of the dossier submitted to ZACC reads:
<blockquote>
Tome is pushing to be appointed substantive general manager so that he can cover up his shenanigans.
He favours management instead of general staff in terms of salaries and benefits.
Resultantly, the chairman and the general manager are in connivance to ensure that their misdeeds are covered up.
They bought 30 tonnes of fertilisers from (a company named) and donated to HE (Mnangagwa) and VP (Chiwenga) to buy their audience, but both refused to entertain them and just told them to leave the fertilisers in Kwekwe.
They haven’t met them up to now. The company is struggling to pay for the fertiliser up to now.
</blockquote>
Anyway Mutambudzi the chief director for presidential communications, on Saturday told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200007064/ed-chiwenga-bribe-backfires">The Standard</a> he could not comment on a matter that was under investigation. He said:
<blockquote>
We would not want to interfere with the investigations. ZACC can respond to that.
</blockquote>
ZACC spokesperson Thandiwe Mlobane confirmed the developments and said the matter was being investigated under case number HCR26/01/23.
ZACC investigators reportedly entered IDC offices on 24 January and served the institution with a warrant of search and seizure.
Makamure and Tome are also accused of abusing power and nepotism.
Contacted for comment by The Standard, Tome said he was in a meeting. He had not responded by the time of going to print.
Makamure also did not respond to questions sent to him by the publication.

Attempt To "Bribe" Mnangagwa, Chiwenga Fails

Bulawayo residents have accused Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) workers of demanding bribes for them to repair electrical faults.
ZETDC workers are supposed to fix electric faults free of charge but reports suggest that some of them are demanding cash from residents before they attend to faults.
Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) chairperson Ambrose Sibindi confirmed receiving complaints from residents. He said:
<blockquote>
Residents say they are experiencing serious challenges with ZESA staff. They claim that ZESA employees are demanding bribes before they attend to faults.
We have been telling residents to report such cases or to arrest those ZESA employees defrauding people. It is their duty to fix faults.
As an association, we will be writing to ZESA on behalf of residents and urge them to supervise their workers to ensure such bad practices come to an end with immediate effect.
</blockquote>
ZETDC western region general manager Lloyd Jaji said such behaviour from the company’s employees is unacceptable. He said:
<blockquote>
Residents should report such incidents. We attend to faults free of charge, what our employees are doing is wrong, and I call upon the residents to report such incidents.
We are also determined to partner with the residents to set traps for these people and catch them.
</blockquote>
Nkulumane resident Thembekile Gumbo alleged that she had to pay US$20 in order to have an electric fault at her house fixed. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006788/zesa-workers-in-bribes-storm">NewsDay</a>

ZESA Workers Accused Of Demanding Bribes From Residents

The Auditor-General, Mildred Chiri, has implored accounting professionals to shun corruption, saying dabbling in corrupt activities can jeopardise one’s career.
Chiri made the remarks while speaking at the 2022 Premier Business School (PBS) awards ceremony in Harare last Thursday.
She urged accounting professionals who were awarded the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) certification to use the skills they had acquired to help rebuild the country’s economy. Chiri said:
<blockquote>
Go out there and be ethical accountants with integrity. Corruption kills both yourself and the country.
Don’t be involved in corrupt activities that jeopardise your career, and do not aspire to acquire wealth at any cost.
We have seen many scandals in the private and public sectors, some of which were perpetrated by qualified accountants.
We don’t expect that from you as products of Premier Business School.
Integrity and ethics should be the backbone of any accounting professional.
Without integrity and ethics, you cannot be a successful accountant or finance person.
The profession requires high levels of discipline, and without integrity, it is almost impossible for you to achieve sustained success.
</blockquote>
Chiri also commended the award recipients for completing their studies despite the challenges brought by the coronavirus. | <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/auditors-urged-to-shun-corruption/">The Herald</a>

Auditor-General Urges Accountants To Shun Corruption

The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has absolved Victoria Falls Mayor, Councillor Somvelo Dlamini, of corruption charges, and instead found the Town Clerk, Ronnie Dube, culpable on a number of graft charges.
Last year, Victoria Falls residents locked Dube’s office, accusing him of corruption, and in response, the Ministry dispatched a team to the city to investigate the allegations against him.
According to findings of the inquiry that have already been presented to the local authority, Dube has been found culpable on a number of charges. Part of the report reads:
<blockquote>
The Town Clerk, Ronnie Dube must be held accountable and culpable for writing to Jackelberry informing them that they had a 15-year lease that was being processed by council when in fact no allocation and resolution had been passed by council.
By so doing, the Town Clerk usurped the powers of council to resolve this critical matter an issue that the executive was expected to implement after resolution.
The Town Clerk Ronny Dube must be held culpable and accountable for allocating the Chinotimba Brewery to Jackelberry investments without a council resolution and authority.
The Town Clerk must be held accountable for variation of the employment of his contract by applying for a vehicle loan and requesting for a discount fully aware that it was not provided.
</blockquote>
Dube has been ordered to pay the loan in full as the council was prejudiced of US$20 075.
He was also found guilty of presenting matters in Full Council without first presenting the matters to committees for deliberations and for running council without Work Plans and failing to properly appraise his management during the course of the year, among other allegations. | <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/victoria-falls-town-clerk-must-face-the-music-government/">The Sunday News</a>

'Victoria Falls Town Clerk Must Be Held To Account'

Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) top management and private operators contracted by the state-owned public transportation provider are at the centre of corruption and mismanagement allegations.
The Standard reported sources within the company as saying buses and kombis spend the majority of their time parked at the Belvedere depot in Harare but still get paid for services not rendered.
It is alleged that the private operators would fill out waybills with the full knowledge of ZUPCO’s top management, which would then be used to obtain money from the government despite not having provided any services.
One of the conductors operating the Chitungwiza route told The Standard that they spend the greater part of the day doing nothing. Said the conductor:
<blockquote>
We arrive first thing in the morning, complete the waybill and then wait till the day is done.
Sometimes we are provided fuel sufficient for one or two trips only to maintain “fake” presence in the market.
</blockquote>
Private bus and kombi operators reportedly receive the equivalent of US$280 and US$95 respectively per day or the equivalent in local currency.
At one point, the ZUPCO fleet comprised 818 private kombis and 1 121 buses overall, with 705 buses operated by independent contractors hired by the company.
However, violation of contractual obligations by ZUPCO has forced some to withdraw their fleet.
The ZUPCO management is being accused of struggling to maintain its day-to-day operations and fulfilling its obligations as a result of corruption, poor management, and wrong priorities.
For example, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) reportedly garnished ZUPCO accounts last month for failing to send monthly contributions to the pension fund.
NSSA spokesperson Tendai Mutseyekwa declined to comment on the matter citing concerns about confidentiality.
In November 2022, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) was on the verge of suspending commuter train services due to ZUPCO’s failure to meet its obligations before the Government swiftly overturned the decision.
ZUPCO management consists of interim CEO Everisto Madangwa, administrator Linda Samunderu and finance manager Tendai Nyamayaro.
A ZUPCO employee told The Standard that the top management spends a lot of money on workshops and organising fun days.
However, ZUPCO board chairman Quinton Kanhukamwe said he was not aware of the allegations. He said:
<blockquote>
It is the work of the board to make sure that we get adequate responses from the executive on such issues.
Our meetings are quarterly and we are yet to have our board meeting for this quarter but in between, we may have meetings to deal with specific issues.
That’s why some of these issues have not come to the attention of the board.
</blockquote>
The Government reintroduced the long-abandoned ZUPCO buses in January 2019 after deadly riots broke out mainly in Harare and Bulawayo after an unprecedented fuel price hike triggered transport chaos. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200005508/chaos-engulfs-troubled-zupco">The Standard</a>

ZUPCO Bosses Accused Of Corruption, Mismanagement

Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province Tafadzwa Muguti said that the Government will deal decisively with Harare City Council officials corruptly acquiring land and selling it to line their pockets.
Muguti was responding to a Twitter post by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana.
Mangwana had alleged that CCC councillors bought land at 10 cents ($0.10) per square metre for an Industrial stand in Glaudina.
Muguti bemoaned corruption at the local authority saying graft had reached “disgusting levels.” He said:
<blockquote>
We have been witnessing massive land sales even in wetlands. When I engaged the Mayor [Jacob Mafume] he also expressed concern.
We will get to the bottom of this and find out who did what and when. I can promise that we will deal decisively with all those who cut corners to enrich themselves.
We will not leave any stone unturned as we seek the truth. The level of corruption in the [Harare City Council] has reached exhaustion and disgusting levels.
The land is easily sold off including wetlands with no change of use. Heads will roll that I can promise.
</blockquote>
Last week a <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/massive-harare-land-looting-exposed/">report by The Herald</a> claimed that CCC and MDC Alliance councillors, working in cahoots with top council officials, were buying commercial and industrial stands for as little as US$60 and reselling them at more than US$120 000.

"Heads Will Roll," Muguti Warns "Corrupt" Harare Councillors

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