Harare City Council (HCC) is dragging its feet on setting up a committee to determine the exit package for its scandal-plagued former town clerk, Hosiah Chisango who sensationally resigned last week following a storm of controversy.
Chisango’s abrupt departure was formally communicated through a letter from his lawyers, Lunga Mazikana Attorneys, during a full council meeting.
“After careful consideration and in light of circumstances discussed, our client has considered a mutual termination of employment contract,” read part of the letter.
“We believe this approach will facilitate a smooth transition of both Chisango and the city, allowing for an amicable resolution that serves the interests of all parties involved.”
But behind the diplomatic language lies a deepening storm.
Chisango, who earned a jaw-dropping US$27,000 per month despite worsening service delivery across the capital, is now reportedly angling for a lucrative send-off.
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“Chisango wants a golden handshake,” a council insider revealed.
“It’s, however, puzzling because he was earning a hefty salary, among other lucrative perks, when council is failing to pay workers. Council is struggling like never before.”
Chisango’s tenure was marred by allegations of corruption, including reports that he and his assistant, Matthew Marara, manipulated senior staff grading systems to secure inflated salaries and benefits for themselves and their allies.
“Marara and Chisango abused the national employment council to approve grades, which are not within its jurisdiction,” another source said.
“Chisango threw his close friends under the bus, because they did not want him to resign so that they maintain the status quo… However, Chisango had no option but to resign because he was advised of the repercussions of clinging to his position.”
As reported by NewsDay, a commission of inquiry set up by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last year to probe council operations unearthed widespread corruption and gross mismanagement at Harare Town House.
Its final report is expected to land on the President’s desk soon.
Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba was scathing in his assessment of the city’s leadership.
“Residents have been let down by council as these greedy senior managers just think of their pockets while ignoring their mandate,” said Shumba.
“They are incompetent and parasitic in their attitude towards serious issues like water and sanitation.”
While residents endure dry taps, uncollected garbage, and collapsing infrastructure, council leaders remain tight-lipped.
HCC human resources committee chairperson George Mujajati declined to comment, and finance committee chairperson Costa Mande was unreachable.
Mayor Jacob Mafume offered little detail, only stating:
“I am travelling, I can’t comment on the matter, but there is a committee which I am going to set to deal with Chisango’s issue.”
Meanwhile, Chisango himself remains silent; his phone ringing unanswered.
