Minister Moyo investigates Gweru

Gweru (The Times-New Ziana) – The Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing has appointed a six member team to investigate the circumstances that led to the suspension of Gweru’s Town Clerk Elizabeth Gwatipedza last month.

The investigation team is led by a Mr H Chinyengetere from the Ministry, and is expected to finish its findings within 14 days.

In a letter addressed to Chinyengetere from Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Minister July Moyo, the investigation team is expected to establish the events leading to the suspension of Gwatipedza.

The other terms of reference of the investigation team include establishing the relationship between council and management, and corporate governance issues at the municipality.

They are also required to establish the state of affairs in the department of engineering services, before and during the tenure of current director Robson Manase, as well as circumstances leading to the suspension of some engineering staff.

“Establish the relationship between councillors and land developers and the circumstances leading to the Commission of Inquiry,” Minister Moyo wrote.

Residents and other stakeholders are expected to contribute to the investigation, giving views on service delivery and the latest developments in the city.

In the letter, copied to the Minister of State for Midlands Province and the Mayor of Gweru, Minister Moyo also assigned the investigators to look into any related matters of interest, including procurement of goods and services.

Gweru Mayor Josiah Makombe last month suspended Gwatipedza on six allegations of mismanagement and gross incompetence.

At the time of the suspension, Makombe said a special council meeting had adopted the suspension of the town clerk pending investigation.

“The charges levelled against the town clerk are to do with gross incompetence, failure to supervise and monitor the departments and at the end compromising service delivery,” he said.

Chamber secretary Vakai Chikwekwe is the acting town clerk.

Makombe has confirmed receiving the letter.
The Times-New Ziana