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NewsDay

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Chombo suspends MDC-T councillor

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Local Government minister Ignatius Chombo has suspended Masvingo city council ward eight MDC-T councillor Misheck Gapare to pave way for investigations into allegations that he mismanaged council property.

Local Government minister Ignatius Chombo has suspended Masvingo city council ward eight MDC-T councillor Misheck Gapare to pave way for investigations into allegations that he mismanaged council property.

REPORT BY TATENDA CHITAGU OWN CORRESPONDENT

Chombo’s letter of suspension in NewsDay’s possession dated October 29 was copied to Masvingo provincial governor Titus Maluleke, provincial administrator Felix Chikovo and District Administrator James Mazvidza.

Gapare faces allegations ranging from allocating himself a residential stand which he has reportedly started developing and failure to settle water, rentals and electricity bills at a council-rented flat.

He also stands accused of failing to settle $1 080 for a council tent he hired.

Part of Chombo’s letter reads: “After carefully analysing the facts presented to me on the above cases, I am convinced that your actions are in contravention of section 114 (1) (d) of the Urban Councils Act, and, therefore, I am compelled to suspend you from the office of councillor with immediate effect.”

Chombo said the suspension was effected “in the interests of ensuring sound local governance, and my office ought to establish whether you have a case to answer in respect of the issues outlined in the foregoing”.

Gapare, who was suspended without allowances, has also been barred from visiting council premises or conducting any council business.

The MDC-T councillor said he would comply with Chombo’s order.