Zanu PF bars MP over CDF abuse

Zanu PF has issued a prohibition order against Chiredzi West MP Darlington Chiwa, barring him from his constituency amid allegations of misusing Constituency Development Funds (CDF).

The party's Masvingo provincial executive imposed the order following complaints from constituents claiming that the funds had been misappropriated. Under the order, Chiwa is prohibited from convening gatherings or conducting any meetings in his constituency until a disciplinary hearing, scheduled for January 16, clears him.

Masvingo provincial chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa confirmed the action, stating: "Yes, Cde Chiwa was issued a prohibition order over a matter to do with use of CDF funds. We are going to carry out investigations into the allegations raised against him."

He added that as the party that deployed him, Zanu PF has a duty to investigate whether the funds were properly used. "If it is true then it will come out in the hearing; if it's not, he will be cleared," Mavhenyengwa said.

Sources indicated that several other MPs in the province face similar allegations, though Chiwa's case is currently the only one formally before the party. Mavhenyengwa noted that any additional cases would be investigated as reports emerge.

Chiwa declined to comment, referring all questions to party spokespersons Pepukai Chiwewe and Mavhenyengwa.

Some political observers suggest the prohibition may be linked to internal factional battles within Zanu PF, with party groups already positioning candidates ahead of future elections.