Bulawayo’s deputy mayor, Councilor Edwin Ndlovu, and Finance and Development Board chairman, Councilor Mpumelelo Moyo, have returned to work despite corruption accusations.
The decision came after the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works ordered the suspension to be lifted, highlighting the complex landscape of local government.
The ministry initially ordered its suspension last week. However, a clarification from the ministry revealed that the suspension only applies to council staff and not elected officials, allowing Leader Ndlovu and Moyo to resume their duties, while legal proceedings continue.
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart clarified the city’s official position, saying after seeking clarification from the ministry, it was clear that both councilors were not suspended.
“The City of Bulawayo would like to inform members of the public that following a request for clarification from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, the Ministry has informed Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu and Chairman of the Finance and Development Committee, Councilor Mpumelelo Moyo, that they are not on hold,” said Cllr Coltart.
Referring to the Department’s guidance, Cllr Coltart said the guidance issued on 22 February 2022 only applied to council staff, not councillors.
He added, “Council members continue their elected duties pending the completion of the ongoing legal procedures.”
The Department’s original guidance sought to address concerns about the increasing arrest of senior council staff for criminal abuse of office, reflecting public concerns about the integrity of governance.
“My office has always maintained the consistent position that in the public interest and as good corporate governance practice, any officer with a matter pending before the courts may not be permitted to continue his or her day-to-day operations at the Board until it is resolved.” They were acquitted by the same courts,” read part of the directive.
“Accordingly, I hereby direct all local authorities, under Section 313 of the Urban Councils Act (Cap. 29:15) and Section 155 of the Rural Area Councils Act (Cap. 29:13), to immediately ensure that all employees whose cases have not The courts have yet to conclude it and they are prevented from attending service until they are acquitted.”
The High Court last week granted bail to Clrs Ndlovu and Moyo after they spent two weeks in custody on charges of demanding US$20. 000 thousand pounds “facilitation” fees from a cement factory investor.
This bail decision allows them to remain involved in the Council’s processes, albeit under certain conditions, including restrictions on dealing with State witnesses.
Bulawayo High Court judge Justice Ngoni Nduna granted them bail of US$100 each. They are scheduled to appear before the Magistrates Court in routine remand on December 13.
Judge Nduna Clare Moyo also ordered that he surrender his passport and house titles as security.
The public is eagerly awaiting the results of these proceedings, which highlights the complex interplay between legitimacy, governance and public trust.
Meanwhile, Victoria Falls Town Clerk, Mr. Ronnie Dube, has been suspended over allegations of corruption and abuse of office. City Council members supported the suspension at a full council meeting.
Victoria Falls Mayor, Cllr Prince Thuso Moyo, suspended Mr Dube in a letter dated December 2, 2024. He said the suspension was in accordance with Section 29: (3) of the Urban Councils Act.
Mr Dube will be suspended from work and prohibited from accessing his office or visiting the council offices for 14 days pending investigations, after which a decision will be made.
The comment letter was addressed to other council members, the Office of the District Development Coordinator, and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works. Chronicle
