News / National
Harare mayor says he has nothing to hide
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Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has expressed his willingness to face any investigation following confusion over his residential address during a government-appointed commission probe on Wednesday.
Mafume drew attention after leading the commission, headed by retired judge Justice Maphios Cheda, to an undeveloped property in Greendale. The property, which turned out to be a vehicle auction site, raised questions after the mayor initially claimed he resided in Belvedere, only to later state that he lives in a rented property in Greendale.
The inconsistencies prompted the commissioners to conduct an on-site inspection to verify Mafume's claims, amid allegations that he may have acquired multiple residential stands in violation of council policy.
Appearing before the commission again on Thursday, Mafume reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability, acknowledging the previous day's confusion.
"I have no issue with any official verification processes. My record remains clear, and I will continue to serve Harare residents with integrity," Mafume said.
He described the address mix-up as an "honest mistake," emphasizing the importance of accuracy in public matters. "As a public servant, I have always upheld the principles of accountability and openness," he added.
The commission, appointed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in May 2023, is investigating Harare City Council operations dating back to 2017. Its mandate includes uncovering instances of mismanagement and corruption within council management.
The ongoing inquiry has already revealed several cases of alleged misconduct, and Mafume's situation has added to the scrutiny. Allegations of improper acquisition of residential stands have long been a contentious issue in the council, with accusations of policy violations and corruption undermining public trust.
While Mafume has welcomed the probe, his case underscores the broader challenges facing Harare City Council. With the commission's findings expected to shine a light on the council's operations, public calls for accountability and transparency continue to grow.
The outcome of the investigation will likely have significant implications for council leadership and its ability to regain public confidence.
Mafume drew attention after leading the commission, headed by retired judge Justice Maphios Cheda, to an undeveloped property in Greendale. The property, which turned out to be a vehicle auction site, raised questions after the mayor initially claimed he resided in Belvedere, only to later state that he lives in a rented property in Greendale.
The inconsistencies prompted the commissioners to conduct an on-site inspection to verify Mafume's claims, amid allegations that he may have acquired multiple residential stands in violation of council policy.
Appearing before the commission again on Thursday, Mafume reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability, acknowledging the previous day's confusion.
"I have no issue with any official verification processes. My record remains clear, and I will continue to serve Harare residents with integrity," Mafume said.
The commission, appointed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in May 2023, is investigating Harare City Council operations dating back to 2017. Its mandate includes uncovering instances of mismanagement and corruption within council management.
The ongoing inquiry has already revealed several cases of alleged misconduct, and Mafume's situation has added to the scrutiny. Allegations of improper acquisition of residential stands have long been a contentious issue in the council, with accusations of policy violations and corruption undermining public trust.
While Mafume has welcomed the probe, his case underscores the broader challenges facing Harare City Council. With the commission's findings expected to shine a light on the council's operations, public calls for accountability and transparency continue to grow.
The outcome of the investigation will likely have significant implications for council leadership and its ability to regain public confidence.
Source - newsday
