'Jobs for the boys' scandal rocks council

Residents in Chinhoyi are expressing growing anger over allegations that councillors have hijacked the recruitment of casual labour, sidelining qualified candidates in favour of politically connected individuals.

The dispute has intensified after a group of recently dismissed workers petitioned Marian Chombo, the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, seeking intervention.

At the centre of the controversy is a council resolution reportedly allowing each councillor to nominate two individuals for employment - a move critics say undermines established hiring procedures and opens the door to patronage.

Affected workers argue that the system bypasses formal recruitment channels and disadvantages those who had previously secured jobs through recognised labour offices.

One former worker, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the arrangement had effectively "left them out in the cold," alleging that political affiliation now outweighs merit in hiring decisions.

Another former employee, Clayton, claimed the recruitment process had shifted from a structured system to one driven by ward-based political considerations, with councillors allegedly favouring loyalists over experienced candidates.

Minister Chombo confirmed receiving the complaints and said her office is assessing the matter, although she indicated caution in intervening directly in local authority affairs.

Chinhoyi mayor Owen Charuza dismissed the allegations, insisting the council is adhering to proper procedures in recruiting 51 casual workers through official labour offices.

He suggested the complaints may be coming from individuals who previously benefited from the system and are now resisting changes.

An anonymous councillor from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) echoed this view, alleging that the disgruntled workers are aligned to rival political interests and are opposing reforms meant to close loopholes.

Council spokesperson Tichaona Mlauzi said the recruitment process is being conducted through the Department of Employment Service Promotion, with applicants undergoing vetting, including police clearance, to ensure compliance with labour laws.

He confirmed that the 51 positions are short-term contracts of up to three months, intended to address staffing shortages in key service areas.

Despite these assurances, tensions remain high, with critics warning that perceived politicisation of employment could erode public trust in local governance.

As the investigation unfolds, the row highlights broader concerns about transparency, fairness and accountability in public sector recruitment.