By Tapiwa Svondo
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Harare Ward 29 Councillor Blessing Duma on allegations of extortion.
Duma is alleged to have abused his powers and coerced the Director of Housing and Community Services Admore Nhekairo into signing allocation letters for two unserviced residential stands in Mabelreign.
“Duma who is the Chairperson of the Harare City Council Audit Committee allegedly coerced the Director Housing andCommunity Services, Admore Nhekairo to sign allocation letters of two unserviced residential stand in Mabelreign Township to Welter Chigwereva and Danai Dzawanda respectively.
“He reportedly threatened Nhekairo with adverse action by the Audit Committee if he does not sign the allocation letters,” reads ZACC’s statement.
Duma is scheduled to appear before the Harare Magistrate Court on Thursday.
These allegations have come following the appointment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate governance issues at the Harare city council.
The Harare Commission of Inquiry will probe procedures of management, sale or transfer or lease of council properties to private entities, financial management of revenue generated through special vehicle companies and outsourced arrangements, the convening of council meetings, compliance with procurement laws, disposal of assets and adherence to the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act.
