The Intervention
The above mentioned challenges forced the Ministry to invoke Section 114 of the Urban Councils Act, [as read with the Local Government Laws Amendment Act], thereby suspending all twenty-five Councillors. The disciplinary procedures have been put in place.
To keep the Council running whilst disciplinary procedures are being taken, a Caretaker Council was appointed in terms of Section 80 of the Urban Councils Act.
The following Caretakers have been appointed:-
Mr. M.S Pawadyira, a retired civil servant with vast local government experience and who has served on a number of caretaker councils.
Ms. Z. Chisango, the District Administrator for Chitungwiza, who has been instrumental in reporting maladministration and who is aware of the situation on the ground.
Cde Joshua Mabiza, a former councilor of Chitungwiza and a local businessman.
The terms of reference for the Caretakers are as follows:
1. To reverse all illegal land acquisition mentioned in the two investigations reports and the internal audit report on land abuse and to institute correctional measures to prevent similar occurrences of land abuse.
2. To oversee the taking of disciplinary action against staff implicated in the reports.
3. To oversee the putting in place of proper procedures with regards to estate management.
4. To put forward options for the provision of services to areas where stands have been sold to home seekers.
5. To review all resolutions of Council taken since 2013 and rescind those that is ultra-vires.
6. To establish a formal complaints system for use by members of the public and open dialogue with the community.
7. To take any other steps necessary for the return to normalcy of Chitungwiza Municipality.
The Ministry has also instructed the Provincial Administrator for Harare Province and the department of Housing and Social Amenities to assist the Caretakers in undertaking their roles. The Minister of State for Harare Province is fully informed of the situation. I thank you Mr. Speaker.
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