Prophet Magaya bags murky council deal

Chitungwiza Town Council has initiated its controversial master plan crafting deal with funding from a company linked to church leader Walter Magaya, despite opposition from residents and ongoing legal challenges. The deal, sealed with Magaya's company, Westmer Investment, has raised concerns among residents and council members alike.

The agreement, which involves preparing a master plan for Chitungwiza, has faced resistance from some councillors who opposed its conditions. Despite this, the council has proceeded with the deal, prompting legal action from residents seeking to halt the project.

The Chitungwiza Residents Trust (Chitrest) filed a High Court application seeking to prevent Westmer Investments from implementing the project, arguing that it amounts to a takeover of the town. According to the residents, the proposed memorandum of agreement contained unfavorable conditions, leading all 33 councillors to unanimously reject the donation.

The residents argue that allowing Westmer Investment to proceed with the project poses significant risks, including environmental damage and potential violations of local regulations. They seek an interdict to halt the company's activities until proper procedures and approvals are obtained.

The situation has escalated, with allegations that Local Government and Public Works minister Daniel Garwe pressured councillors to approve Magaya's deal. Some councillors, including the mayor, reportedly met with Magaya and the minister, where they were allegedly ordered to sign the deal.

Despite the allegations, council spokesperson Tafadzwa Kachiko dismissed any wrongdoing, stating that meetings between council members and the minister were routine for guidance purposes.

Magaya has been accused of attempting to buy significant portions of Chitungwiza through his project, facing ongoing resistance from residents.