The opposition in Zimbabwe has faced numerous allegations of corruption since its beginnings as the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and its later transformation into the Citizens for Change Coalition (CCC). Corruption has become a recurring issue within the opposition, with several officials accused of acting for personal financial gain rather than the public good. These activities undermine the opposition’s credibility and continue to tarnish its reputation.
Recent Allegations of Corruption
One prominent example involves Chalton Hwende, a legislator from the CCC’s Maruva faction. As Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public Accounts, Hwende has been accused of planning to misuse his power to extract money from certain companies. He allegedly intends to force companies mentioned in the Auditor General’s report to pay bribes in exchange for favorable recommendations. Hwende is also reported to be seeking the support of other committee members by offering them financial incentives, as many are uncertain about their political futures beyond the 2028 elections.
In the Midlands Province, the CCC Chamisa faction faces accusations of misusing membership funds. The scandal emerged when members from the Gweru District Cluster refused to pay their July and August subscriptions, accusing their chairman, Tendai Munhamo, of misappropriating June’s funds. Munhamo claimed that the money was used to provide food for activists arrested in Gokwe for an unauthorized protest. However, he now faces accusations of trying to cover up the scandal by falsely stating that the funds also supported activists arrested during the recent SADC Summit.
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume is also under investigation for allegedly receiving an improperly awarded 2,000 square meter residential stand in Mt. Pleasant. The stand remains unvalued, raising concerns about the transparency of the allocation process.
Ongoing Investigations
The President has formed a Commission of Inquiry to investigate corruption and mismanagement in the CCC-led council in Harare. The inquiry has already uncovered numerous scandals, and there is hope that its recommendations will lead to greater transparency and accountability. The aim is to ensure that public officials prioritize the needs of the people over personal interests.
Exposing these issues is essential for promoting the greater good of Zimbabwe and ensuring that the opposition can fulfill its role with integrity and responsibility.
