Blessing Duma, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) councilor for Harare’s ward 21 and chairperson of the city’s Audit Committee, has been remanded in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for this Friday. Duma faces serious extortion charges that have raised significant concerns within the local political landscape.
During a brief appearance before Magistrate Stanford Mambanje on Thursday, Duma was not required to enter a plea. The state, represented by prosecutor Mercy Masamvi, outlined the allegations against him, which stem from events in June 2024 involving two unserviced residential stands in Mabelreign.
According to court documents, two provisional allocation offer letters for the stands, intended for Walter Chigwereva and Danai Dzawanda, were sent to the office of the director of housing, Admore Nhekairo. Upon reviewing the letters, Nhekairo discovered that they lacked the necessary signatures and stamps, indicating they had not followed the proper procedural channels. Concerned about the authenticity of the letters, he decided to withhold them pending an internal investigation.
On August 26, 2024, Duma allegedly approached Nhekairo at the City of Harare offices to question why the letters had not been signed. He purportedly used his position to pressure Nhekairo into fast-tracking the process, suggesting that the director should simply sign the letters, which included names that Duma had recommended.
Nhekairo reportedly refused, insisting that proper procedures must be followed. Following this, Duma allegedly threatened Nhekairo, claiming he would expose him and his department at the next Audit Committee meeting unless he complied. He further insisted that Nhekairo illegally allocated the stands to the individuals named, to avoid being publicly embarrassed.
The situation escalated on August 27, when Duma again sought the signed letters, only to be met with another refusal. The state alleges that Duma continued to exert pressure, warning Nhekairo of adverse actions that could impact his reputation and related organizations. As the investigation continues, the implications of this case are significant for both Duma and the CCC, reflecting ongoing issues of governance and accountability within local government structures.
In other news – NRZ investigates possible Arson Attacks at Bulawayo and Harare facilities
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is conducting an investigation into recent fire incidents at its facilities in Bulawayo and Harare, which are suspected to be acts of arson. The fires have raised concerns over potential sabotage against the railway company. Last week, a significant fire at NRZ’s Bulawayo workshop destroyed 44 decommissioned passenger coaches.
Shortly after, another fire erupted at the shunters complex in Harare, damaging three more coaches. In an official statement, NRZ expressed alarm over the series of fire outbreaks, describing them as potentially coordinated attacks. Read More
