Government officials have made the decision to reinstate Zanu PF councillors who had previously resigned from civil service roles to stand as candidates in the 2023 general elections, despite directives prohibiting civil servants from holding positions in local authorities.
A reliable source within the Public Service ministry disclosed to NewsDay that the Zanu PF councillors had raised concerns about inadequate remuneration within local authorities and subsequently approached government leaders of the ruling party to request reinstatement.
“Their appeal was taken into consideration, leading to the directive for their reinstatement,” the source explained.
Last year, the Public Service Commission (PSC) issued a directive requiring all civil servants intending to contest in the 2023 elections to resign from their positions.
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A circular dated May 18, 2023, from the Public Service ministry outlined procedures allowing aspiring councillors to reapply for reinstatement within 30 days should they fail to secure victory in the elections.
Civil servants who expressed political aspirations were permitted to participate in the August 23 harmonised elections after formally notifying the PSC of their intentions in writing. As per the circular, a civil servant was considered to have resigned from their public service role upon receiving permission from the PSC to pursue public office.
However, investigations by NewsDay revealed that Zanu PF councillors, who emerged victorious in the elections following their resignation, have been reinstated despite the initial directive.
