Chamisa directed Harare's councillors to fast-track processes

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa is appearing before the Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of the Harare City Council, chaired by retired High Court Judge Justice Maphios Cheda. Chamisa's testimony follows allegations of impropriety in the management of the city's affairs during his tenure as the party leader.

The inquiry has focused on claims that Chamisa directed councillors affiliated with the CCC to expedite the regularisation of housing cooperatives ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections. This move, it is alleged, was designed to bolster his party's urban support base.

These allegations gained traction after testimony from Councillor Blessing Duma, the chairperson of Harare City Council's Audit Committee. Duma presented an audio recording in which he instructed fellow councillors to regularise all informal settlements in Harare, citing directives purportedly issued by Chamisa.

During public hearings, it emerged that over 5,000 illegal stands were allegedly allocated by CCC councillors ahead of the elections. The stands have been linked to unregulated settlements, raising concerns about governance and urban planning in the capital city.

Chamisa's testimony is expected to address these accusations and clarify his role in the city's affairs. The Commission of Inquiry continues to probe the city council's operations amid concerns about accountability, governance, and the legality of certain decisions made in the lead-up to the elections.

The outcome of Chamisa's testimony and the commission's findings may have significant implications for urban governance and political accountability in Harare.