THE Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) is at the centre of allegations surrounding a US$6,8 million building project.
The allegations point to mismanagement, financial misconduct and lack of accountability involving the CIO and the National Social Security Authority (Nssa).
A senior officer in the intelligence agency declined to issue a statement when contacted for comment on Wednesday, saying CIO does not, and will not, engage the media on the matter.
“Only the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) can comment on the issue, as the CIO is not privy to the investigations,” the officer said.
Observers say attention within intelligence circles is focused on whether formal investigations will be initiated and what they may uncover.
According to reports, Zacc has since launched its own investigation.
Zacc spokesperson Simiso Mlevu asked that questions be sent via WhatsApp when contacted by NewsDay yesterday, but later did not respond to inquiry.
Meanwhile, insiders allege there is a co-ordinated campaign targeting the organisation’s leadership after it reportedly initiated institutional reforms.
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“The current CIO leadership was appointed in 2025, well after the alleged irregularities are said to have occurred. Reports on the US$6,8 million building project emerged several years before the current leadership assumed office.
“CIO director-general Upenyu Mangwanya was appointed in January 2025, taking over from Ambassador Isaac Moyo.
“If the allegations surrounding the project are true, these are legacy issues that he inherited and will be expected to resolve without fear or favour,” an insider said.
Reports have named several officials allegedly linked to the building project scandal, which has sparked public outcry and calls for thorough investigations.
“Zimbabwe’s institutions must be strengthened to investigate the matter urgently, thoroughly and without prejudice,” another insider said.
“Mangwanya’s tenure at the CIO has been marked by a public emphasis on modernisation and legal compliance. This has made him a target for those invested in institutional weakness.”
Supporters within intelligence circles pointed to Mangwanya’s previous record, citing his tenure as head of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, where he reportedly addressed a US$25 million debt, cleared salary arrears and stabilised operations.
“When a professional enters an institution and imposes accountability, closes leakages and insists on procedure, they disrupt established networks of patronage,” another insider said.
“The virulence of the attack is often proportional to the effectiveness of the reformer.”
The latest allegations arise against the backdrop of earlier controversy involving the CIO and Nssa, with previous investments widely criticised as a misappropriation of pensioners’ funds for the benefit of a select few within State structures.
