….I will stand with the people’s mandate-vows Cllr Chivhoko
Tinaani Nyabereka
Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T) leader Douglas Mwonzora recently wielded his axe on three Gweru urban councillors Martin Chivhoko ward 4, Cleopas Shiri ward 5 and John Manyundwa ward 18 as he continues recalling those who sympathise with his political nemesis Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa.
The recall was done on October 17 with the three having since been informed by Acting Gweru Town Clerk Douglas Vakai Chikwekwe who wrote to them notifying them of their expulsion and declaring vacancies in their wards.
Communication from Local Government and Public Works minister July Moyo dated October 11 informed Chikwekwe of reception of the three’s expulsion letter from MDC-T.
“I wish to inform you that, I am in receipt of a letter from the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T) stating that the following councillors have been expelled from the party: Cllr Martin Chivhoko ward 4, Cllr Cleopas Shiri ward 5 and Cllr John Manyundwa ward 18.
“In terms of section 278 (1) of the constitution of Zimbabwe, as read with section (1) (k) the above-mentioned wards are now vacant,” read the letter.
Despite reportedly paying allegiance to Chamisa and CCC, the three are believed to have been targeted for refusing to agree to the awarding of ‘Freedom of City Status’ of Gweru to President Mnangagwa a few weeks ago.
“The three councillors were targeted for being vocal in declining the suggestion to award President Mnangagwa the freedom of city status in Gweru though they also have made it public knowledge that they follow Chamisa and CCC,” said a source.
Speaking to TellZim News, Chivhoko said he was chosen by the people and was going to continue serving them.
“I was chosen by the people, hence will continue to serve them. My mandate is to see to it that my ward’s concerns are addressed as they sent me to.
“My ward wants refuse to be collected, water to be provided, roads fixed, infrastructure improved and I will continue to do so. Council belongs to the people, and it is the people who speak,” said Chivhoko.
Shiri said the recall was overdue as he expected it long back.
“I have been waiting for the recall for the past 10 months after being threatened for refusing to step down as Deputy Mayor to pave way for ward 9 councillor Edson Kurebgaseka.
“My recall is on the basis of politicking and refusing to accord Freedom of the City status to President Emmerson Mnangagwa,” said Shiri.
This is not the first time that Mwonzora has descended on Gweru after he recalled Mayor councillor Josiah Makombe who has since bounced back after romping to victory in the ensuing by-elections.
Gweru recalls came hot on the heels of Mwonzora recalling six councillors from Binga Rural District Council and two more from Victoria Falls.
