Corruption Allegations Leave Byo Councillors in Uncertain Territory

Bulawayo deputy mayor Edwin Ndlovu and councilor Mpumelelo Moyo remain active in their roles, despite corruption allegations casting a shadow over their tenures, Mayor David Coltart has confirmed.

A statement surfaced, allegedly from the Local Government ministry, suggesting the two officials had been suspended pending court verdicts on the accusations.

The statement claimed they would be barred from duty until legal proceedings concluded and the courts determined their innocence or guilt.

However, Coltart clarified the situation, dismissing the claims of suspension after consulting the Local Government and Public Works ministry.

In an official announcement, Coltart stated that the suspension directive applied only to council employees, not to elected officials.

“The ministry advised that deputy mayor Ndlovu and councilor Moyo are not on suspension and will continue their duties,” Coltart explained.

He emphasized that the councillors are entitled to their roles while awaiting the resolution of ongoing legal proceedings.

The accusations against Ndlovu and Moyo stem from allegations of soliciting a US$20,000 bribe to facilitate the approval of a cement factory project.

High Court judge Justice Ngoni Nduna granted them US$100 bail each, with specific conditions to ensure compliance during investigations.

Moyo was required to surrender his passport and title deeds, while both councillors must report to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) weekly.

Reports suggest these allegations are part of a larger investigation into potential corruption within the council’s ranks.

State media claimed ZACC possesses a list of 20 councilors implicated in the bribery scheme, with each allegedly set to receive US$1,000.

The scandal has intensified scrutiny on the council, raising questions about governance, accountability, and the effectiveness of anti-corruption mechanisms.

This ongoing case highlights the challenges in balancing public office duties with legal and ethical responsibilities amid such allegations.

The Local Government ministry has not yet issued an official statement addressing the broader implications of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the public awaits further developments as the legal process continues to unfold, with potential ramifications for Bulawayo’s leadership.

ZACC’s broader investigation could implicate additional officials, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in local governance.

The ministry’s response to the unfolding events will likely influence public confidence in both the council and national anti-corruption efforts.