By Staff Reporter
HARARE – The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, working with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), has announced the formation of a Special Taskforce dedicated to investigating allegations of corruption within local authorities.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Harare yesterday, ZACC chairperson Michael Reza revealed that local authorities were among the worst offenders in graft cases handled by the commission.
“Last year, at least 14 percent of all corruption cases investigated by ZACC involved malpractice by local authorities. This is a deeply concerning figure which demands targeted intervention,” said Reza.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who also attended the briefing, underscored the government’s resolve to clean up local governance. He said the new taskforce would be empowered to pursue cases ranging from tender manipulation and abuse of devolution funds to illegal land sales and mismanagement of council resources.
“This initiative is not just about investigating, but about restoring integrity and service delivery within our councils. Communities have suffered for too long due to corrupt officials diverting resources meant for the people,” Garwe said.
The establishment of the taskforce follows mounting complaints from residents’ associations and civil society groups, who have accused both urban and rural councils of rampant abuse of office, particularly in housing allocations, service delivery contracts, and financial mismanagement.
Analysts say the move signals growing recognition by government that corruption in local authorities is directly linked to deteriorating public services, including waste management, water supply, and road maintenance.
“This could be a turning point if the taskforce is given real teeth and allowed to work without political interference,” said Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba in reaction to the announcement.
The Special Taskforce is expected to start operations immediately, with ZACC investigators working alongside ministry officials. According to insiders, the unit will also submit quarterly reports to Cabinet as part of efforts to ensure accountability.
Critics, however, have warned that previous anti-corruption campaigns have fizzled out due to selective application of the law. Opposition figures have called on government to ensure the taskforce is not used to target political rivals while shielding connected individuals.
For now, residents across Zimbabwe will be watching closely to see whether the initiative delivers results or becomes yet another unfulfilled promise in the fight against corruption.
