Military chefs shield corrupt council officials

KUDAKWASHE CHIBVURI

Powerful military and political figures are reportedly shielding Harare City Council officials from jail as they have benefitted from the massive looting at the Town House which has become a haven for criminal activities, Business Times heard.

Harare City Council has been at the centre of corruption and looting involving millions of dollars with alleged perpetrators for years remaining free from charges raising questions on who was blowing the wind beneath their wings.

Investigations by Business Times show that officials were being protected by key military figures including one very senior official reportedly working with some managers at town house including some former military personnel.

The said officials were pictured at a private function to celebrate the promotion of the senior military official, confirming their links.

Multiple sources also confirmed the links and that the officials were untouchable while their brandished arrogance that have seen them defying elected officials was because of their links to the top military official.

“The senior managers (names withheld) enjoy protection from their military boss. They do not hide their close links with him and that makes some officials and even councillors fear them,” a source said.

He explained the headache was exacerbated by fears that other powerful figures even in the ruling Zanu PF party were also benefitting from the local authority.

This confirmed that some political figures and military bosses had literally seized control of the Harare City Council.

Council has been marred by several reports of corruption, mismanagement of funds and irregular deals benefitting a few connected individuals at the extent of residents.

Currently, several council officials including Town Clerk Engineer Hosea Chisango are in the dock facing several charges related to abuse of office and corruption.

Chisango was last week embroiled in a clash with Mayor Jacob Mafume after the Town Clerk reported for duty despite having been suspended earlier in the day.

This, observers say, could have been a “show of force” by Chisango.

Other sources also revealed that opposition bigwigs were also leading cartels at the local authority for personal benefit.

Named senior Zanu PF officials are also controlling council with an agenda to loot.