HARARE – Former leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Nelson Chamisa, is scheduled to appear before the Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of the Harare City Council.
The commission is chaired by Retired Justice Maphios Cheda and is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and governance failures within the city’s administration.
Chamisa’s upcoming testimony has garnered significant public interest, given his former role as a prominent opposition figure and his party’s influence in local government. The CCC held a majority in the Harare City Council before the recent national elections, raising questions about the party’s accountability for alleged irregularities.
The inquiry, established by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, seeks to address mounting concerns over service delivery challenges in Harare, including water shortages, uncollected refuse, and deteriorating infrastructure. Allegations of graft and misuse of funds by council officials have further eroded public trust in the city’s administration.
Justice Cheda stated that the commission aims to provide a thorough and impartial investigation, with findings expected to inform future policy reforms. “Our mandate is to uncover the truth and recommend measures that will restore confidence in local governance,” he said during a recent briefing.
Chamisa, who stepped down as CCC leader following his party’s electoral defeat in August, is expected to address questions about his role in overseeing council operations and his party’s handling of urban governance. Political analysts have noted that his appearance could either bolster or tarnish his legacy as a reform-oriented leader.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
The news of Chamisa’s scheduled appearance has sparked mixed reactions among Zimbabweans. Supporters argue that the inquiry may be a politically motivated attempt to discredit the opposition, while critics contend that accountability should apply to all leaders, regardless of political affiliation.
Observers also view the commission as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to tackling corruption and inefficiency across local authorities. With urban councils traditionally serving as opposition strongholds, the findings could have far-reaching implications for Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
Key Areas of Investigation
The commission is expected to focus on:
- Alleged misuse of public funds allocated for critical services.
- Controversial land allocations and irregular tender processes.
- The council’s failure to address longstanding service delivery issues.
- Governance practices during the CCC’s tenure in council leadership.
Harare residents have expressed frustration over the city’s worsening living conditions, with many hoping the inquiry will lead to meaningful reforms. “We just want clean water and better roads. Those responsible for the mess must be held accountable,” said Rutendo Moyo, a local resident.
Next Steps
The commission’s hearings will continue over the coming weeks, with testimony from various stakeholders, including current and former city officials, councillors, and independent experts. The final report is expected to be submitted to the Ministry of Local Government, with recommendations for addressing governance deficiencies.
As Chamisa prepares to take the stand, all eyes will be on the proceedings, which are poised to shape the narrative around accountability and leadership in Zimbabwe’s urban centres.
