THE Local Government ministry is investigating Chikomba Rural District Council (RDC) chairperson and Zanu PF ward 17 councillor, Israel Dhikinya, over allegations of corruption, misconduct and favouritism in the awarding of grain and seed transportation tenders.
In a letter dated January 28, 2026, Local Government minister Daniel Garwe notified Dhikinya of the probe, citing complaints received by the ministry regarding governance issues at the local authority.
“The ministry is in receipt of a letter of complaint concerning the afore-cited matter that is prevailing at Chikomba Rural District Council,” Garwe wrote.
“Therefore, in terms of section 154 of the Rural District Councils Act [Chapter 29:13], I do hereby appoint an investigation team to look into the allegations levelled against the council chairman.”
According to the letter, the investigation team, led by Binga district development co-ordinator, Land Siansole Kabome, has been tasked with conducting a “thorough inquiry” into allegations of misgovernance, including “specific instances supported by evidence”.
Among the key issues under scrutiny are claims of corruption and the alleged manipulation of tenders awarded to transporters ferrying grain and seed from the Grain Marketing Board depot in Chivhu to villagers.
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The team has been directed to determine whether there was preferential treatment in the awarding of contracts and to assess the financial implications for the council.
Dhikinya is also being investigated over the suspension and subsequent dismissal of three council employees in connection with an alleged US$2,50 fraud case.
The matter reportedly escalated to the Supreme Court, resulting in the council incurring hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal costs.
The probe will assess whether the disciplinary action taken against the employees was appropriate and examine the circumstances that led to the significant financial losses.
In addition, the investigation will evaluate the council’s financial management practices under Dhikinya’s leadership, identify any irregularities and assess his working relationship with fellow councillors and its impact on governance and council operations.
The team has also been instructed to determine whether the chairperson’s actions and decisions comply with the Rural District Councils Act and other relevant legislation, and to identify any potential breaches.
The investigation team is expected to submit its report to Garwe within 14 days.
Chikomba RDC will meet the travelling and subsistence costs of the investigating team.