Councillor in trouble for misleading commission

KUDAKWASHE CHIBVURI

A Harare councillor Blessing Duma who is the city chairperson for Audit Committee is in legal trouble for allegedly lying to the President Emmerson Mnangagwa appointed Commission of Inquiry.

Duma last month appeared before the Justice Cheda chaired commission of inquiry where he made several falsehoods about Shelter Zimbabwe.

Through its lawyers from Maposa and Ndomene Legal Practitioners, Shelter Zimbabwe is demanding a retraction and a public apology from Duma over his lies before the commission.

Duma was recently arrested for alleged extortion and has a case continuing at the Harare Magistrates Court.

“The claim that Shelter Zimbabwe’s contract with the City of Harare was terminated for non-performance on 8 February 2023 is disputed,” the letter reads in part.

Shelter Zimbabwe disputed claims that it sold unserviced stands without council authority and claims by Duma that they involved in corrupt behavior in acquiring and developing stands.

They also dismissed as false claims that Shelter Zimbabwe was owned by two council employees and the inaccuracies are described as damaging to the client’s reputation and public image.

“A public acknowledgment of the error and its impact is sought and a request for the committee to ensure information is verified before publication,” the lawyers said.

“The information you published as facts contains several inaccuracies and falsehoods. These inaccuracies are not only misleading but also damaging to our client’s professional standing. We urgently request a formal retraction of the false statements…”

“We request that you provide a public apology acknowledging the error. We trust that you understand the importance of maintaining accurate and respectful communication.”