By Correspondent
Norton MP Richard Tsvangirai has accused ActingTown Clerk Mandude of being a ZANU-PF proxy hindering development in the town.
Tsvangirai says he applied for land to build a school but the official has refused the initiative.
“The rate of population growth far exceeds the development of essential services, creating a concerning gap.
“In response, I applied for land to build a high school in Kingsdale, where a new school is urgently needed.
“Unfortunately, the council, led by Town Secretary Mr. Mandude, declined this proposal.
Tsvangirai says children in the area travel over 5 kilometers to attend either St. Eric’s High or Vimbai High School.
“Additionally, I applied for land to establish recreational facilities.
“The vision (being) that each ward would have its own center to help address issues related to drug and substance abuse.
“These centers would provide positive outlets and support for mental health, especially for our youth.
“Yet again, this proposal was denied by the council, through Mr. Mandude.
The politician, who is himself accused of working with infamous CCC Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, says larger projects are under threat from Mandude.
“Even for large-scale projects like a water treatment plant, political obstacles from the current town secretary make it difficult to secure investor support.
“This resistance hinders the progress of our community.
Tsvangirai added that Mandude appears to have hidden political motives.
“At the heart of these challenges is a town secretary whose political motives are blocking Norton’s development.
“Mr. Madunde has refused to engage with residents or to clarify the council’s position on these important issues.
“Additionally, there is a serious lack of transparency in council operations,” he said.
Corruption Accusations
NTC has lately found itself under siege from various quarters accusing it of corporate intransigence.
Foremost among the issues has been the reluctance to make public the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NTC and soccer club MWOS.
The Northern Division One team has a running agreement with NTC to use Ngoni Stadium under unclear arrangements.
Some sections have raised allegations of corruption which officials have failed to dispel due to their refusal to release the MOU.
Tsvangirai said if the matters are not quickly resolved lack of transparency and accountability will persist.
