MUTARE — City councillors here have resolved to re-advertise the leasing of Mountain Tennis Club (MTC) amid allegations of corruption. MTC is a recreational club in Darlington medium-density suburb that has not been functional for years.
Among those said to be jostling to take over the club are two councillors, Kenneth Saruchera and Sangani Mubatanhema, as well as a local businesswoman. Saruchera asked to be excused from the debate during a full council meeting because he was an interested party.
During the full council meeting, it was revealed the businesswoman who had reportedly offered the highest rentals refused to attend interviews.
City of Mutare town clerk Obert Muzawazi told the meeting the woman had refused to attend interviews because she felt the club should be awarded to her since she was the highest bidder.
“She refused to come for the interviews because she thought there was no reason for her to be interviewed since she was the highest bidder,” said Muzawazi.
Special interest councillor Hlanganiso Matangaidze queried the businesswoman’s refusal to attend interviews to assess what she intended to do with the facility.
“Why are people afraid of interviews? She did not want to come to be interviewed and then she alleges that we are corrupt.
“I am not corrupt and I won’t take it lightly. What is fair is to let the public put in their bids again,” said Matangaidze.
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The businesswoman allegedly offered $1 250 as monthly rental while the second and third bids had $1 000 and $250 respectively.
Muzawazi said they would re-advertise the club and the woman was free to resubmit her application if she was still interested.
“She is free to submit her application again when we have re-advertised and we will consider it amongst others,” said Muzawazi.
