Harare’s town clerk, Hosiah Chisango, was barred from attending a full council meeting on Tuesday, October 1, due to his suspension by Mayor Jacob Mafume.
During his suspension, Chisango is not allowed to report for work, enter any city premises, or act in any official capacity for the City of Harare.
According to The Herald, the meeting was briefly disrupted when Chisango entered the council chambers, leading Mayor Mafume to speak to him privately before escorting him out.
Chisango’s suspension, effective September 20, 2024, stems from various allegations, including his involvement in a US$9.2 million street lights scandal that has already implicated four other council officials who are awaiting trial.
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Two weeks ago, he was granted US$500 bail by the High Court while facing charges of criminal abuse of duty connected to the street lighting tender.
Mafume confirmed that Chisango is suspended with pay and benefits as the allegations are investigated.
The council meeting became heated, with councillors trading accusations amid an ongoing Commission of Inquiry into council matters. Tensions escalated further when Acting Harare City Council Chamber Secretary Warren Chiwawa arrived after being questioned by the police just before the session began.
Following the meeting, Chiwawa reassured reporters that he had not been arrested; the police were only seeking clarification regarding the formation of the sports committee and required some documentation. Hosiah Chisango
