By Own Correspondent
In a startling development, Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, is alleged to have intervened to protect a chief director from his ministry from arrest by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
This alleged intervention is linked to accusations of extortion and criminal abuse of office against Shingirai Mushamba—Chief Director of Spatial Planning and Development in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works—raising significant concerns about accountability and integrity within government operations.
Reports indicate that Garwe’s alleged actions occurred on two separate occasions, sparking discontent among citizens and anti-corruption advocates demanding transparency from public officials.
A source familiar with the situation, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, expressed concern:
“It is alarming to see a government official accused of using their power to obstruct justice. This behavior undermines the very principles of transparency and accountability that the ZACC stands for.”
The first alleged incident occurred last week on Thursday when ZACC attempted to arrest Mushamba, who is accused of involvement in fraudulent activities tied to local government land transactions.
Reports suggest that Garwe allegedly intervened, urging ZACC to halt the arrest, claiming Mushamba was crucial in preparations for the commissioning of the Mbare Musika Hub in Harare by President Mnangagwa.
Garwe reportedly requested that Mushamba voluntarily surrender to ZACC the following Monday instead.
The second alleged incident occurred on Monday when ZACC agents again sought to arrest Mushamba.
However, they were met with another intervention—this time in the form of a letter from Garwe requesting another delay, allegedly because Mushamba was needed for Independence Day preparations in Gokwe.
Critics have condemned the alleged interference, arguing that it compromises ZACC’s integrity and undermines anti-corruption efforts.
“It’s unacceptable for a minister to use their influence to protect individuals involved in corrupt practices,” stated another source.
The allegations against Mushamba stem from a 2008 land transaction involving a company named Cabletron Enterprises.
According to ZACC, Cabletron purchased land from the Ministry for housing projects, only to later discover some parcels were privately owned.
The Ministry reportedly promised compensation with State land, but delays prompted Cabletron to complain to then-Minister July Moyo in 2021. ZACC’s investigation alleges that Mushamba demanded residential stands from Cabletron in exchange for processing the compensation.
Efforts to reach Garwe for comment were unsuccessful, as his mobile phone was unreachable by the time of publication.