
Nokuthula Dube
THE Commission of Inquiry appointed by President Mnangagwa to investigate the Harare City Council has begun soliciting for input from the public.
The commission, led by retired High Court Judge Justice Maphios Cheda, is now inviting stakeholders to present written submissions outlining instances of perceived corporate governance failures by the council.
The scope of the inquiry covers Harare’s financial management systems, compliance with procurement laws and the management of revenue, as well as other pertinent issues.
The five-member commission was sworn in at State House a fortnight ago.
In a statement, Justice Cheda said: “As part of the commission’s comprehensive investigation, we are seeking written submissions from all Harare City Council stakeholders including, but not limited to, residents who have insights or information relevant to our mandate.
“Your expertise and perspective are invaluable to us in understanding the complexities and challenges faced by the Harare City Council.”
The commission, he said, was soliciting detailed written submissions addressing issues of financial management systems and audit compliance, particularly adherence to the Public Finance Management Act and other relevant laws.
The commission was also seeking submissions on “financial management of revenue generated through special vehicle companies and outsourced arrangements”, including reasons for the failure to operate an enterprise resource planning system and the quantification of any resultant losses.
It also seeks to understand procedures for the management, sale, lease or transfer of council properties to private entities.
Convening of council meetings and adherence to standing orders and rules will also come under the microscope, and so, too, will the local authority’s compliance with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act.
Other members of the commission are Mr Steven Chakaipa, Mr Norbert Phiri, Ms Lucia Matibenga and Ms Khonzani Ncube.
Dr John Basera, the Permanent Secretary for Local Government and Public Works, is secretary to the commission.