Council Official Survives Alleged Poisoning Attempts After Probing Sensitive Matters

By Loyd Matare

Harare City Council’s acting human capital director, Bosman Matengarufu, has made startling claims of surviving two poisoning attempts after probing sensitive matters within the council.

Testifying before the Retired Justice Maphios Cheda-led Commission of Inquiry, Matengarufu described the city as a “toxic working environment” where investigating issues like land deals, procurement, and vehicle allocations to top officials can be a death sentence.

Matengarufu’s testimony took a dramatic turn when he was questioned about his lack of knowledge regarding cars given to executive directors as benefits.

“I was poisoned twice, it’s on record.

“What else would you expect me to do under such circumstances?” he said.

Matengarufu also shared a chilling incident where he was chased away from a workshop in Chinhoyi.

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“I was very, very alive to such sensitive information to say if I continue doing these things, I would end up leaving my family.”

Matengarufu’s testimony has shed light on the council’s allegedly corrupt practices, where employees who dare to investigate sensitive matters risk being silenced.

Matengarufu’s experience is not an isolated incident. He claimed that issues related to procurement, land, appointments, and vehicle allocations are all considered sensitive matters, and that any employee who makes inquiries about these issues risks being poisoned.

This culture of fear and intimidation has led to a toxic working environment, where employees are reluctant to speak out against corruption.

As the Commission of Inquiry continues its investigation, Matengarufu is expected to face further questioning today.

His testimony has already raised questions about the council’s accountability and transparency.