NetOne boss challenges suspension

Suspended NetOne Cellular Chief Commercial Officer Learnmore Masunda has formally challenged his suspension, arguing that the company failed to properly serve him with charge papers.

In a letter dated March 16 addressed to NetOne chief executive Raphael Mushanawani, Masunda—through his lawyers at Jiti Law Chambers—claimed that the documents were delivered in an "intrusive and unprofessional" manner.

According to Masunda, the suspension letter and accompanying charge papers were allegedly thrown into his yard at night after individuals scaled his gate, an action he says does not meet the standards of lawful service.

He insists that any official communication should have been routed through his legal representatives, rejecting what he termed "night service" as invalid.

Masunda's suspension comes amid a widening probe into his conduct at NetOne Cellular, with investigators outlining a series of serious allegations.

These include claims of sexual harassment, illegal SIM card registrations—described as gross incompetence—undisclosed participation in asset disposal auctions, and abuse of travel and subsistence allowances. Additional accusations involve fuel coupon irregularities, possession of a firearm on company premises, issuing death threats, and broader corporate governance and ethical breaches.

The charges point to possible misconduct, conflicts of interest, and violations that could amount to corruption.

The suspension follows an independent investigation conducted by DT Guard Security, which reportedly found evidence supporting at least 10 charges against Masunda.

The probe included a review of NetOne's internal IT systems and security controls, further intensifying scrutiny on the company's governance structures.

Masunda had initially been placed on forced leave on February 2 before his formal suspension without benefits on March 9.

The latest developments add to mounting legal and governance challenges facing NetOne's leadership. In October 2025, CEO Mushanawani was arrested on fraud allegations, raising concerns about oversight within the state-owned telecommunications firm.

Sources indicate that Masunda has since sought to escalate the matter, reportedly attempting to engage senior government officials, including Emmerson Mnangagwa and the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, in a bid to resolve the dispute.

The case is expected to test both corporate governance standards and labour law procedures, particularly around the proper service of disciplinary charges in Zimbabwe.