Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) director general, Taguma Mahonde, has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) on charges of alleged tender irregularities and fraudulent claims related to school fees for his children. Mahonde is scheduled to appear in court today, as ZACC investigators continue their ongoing investigations.
Confirming the arrest, ZACC spokesperson Commissioner Thandiwe Mlobane stated that the charges against Mahonde involve the fraudulent claiming of school fees for his children. Additionally, further investigations are being conducted regarding the flouting of tender procedures. Mlobane highlighted that Mahonde presented a recent board resolution to ZACC, attempting to authorize his previous claims for school fees. However, this resolution contradicted an earlier resolution from last year.
ZACC remains committed to combating corruption at all levels, regardless of an individual’s social standing. Commissioner Mlobane noted that since January 2023, ZACC has completed and submitted 157 dockets to the National Prosecuting Authority, with 60 of them involving high-profile cases, including senior government and council officials. These cases are considered high-value or have significant societal and economic impact.
Mahonde’s lawyer, Mr Zvidzai Herbert Chinyani, stated that he has not yet received detailed information regarding the allegations against his client.
Sources familiar with the investigation claim that Mahonde allegedly claimed school fees allowances for his children without providing valid receipts or invoices. Furthermore, he is accused of acquiring high-end service vehicles at a significantly reduced price. These alleged actions have reportedly resulted in financial losses for the state.
Witnesses from government departments, such as the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED), are expected to testify in the case. It is alleged that Mahonde purchased vehicles at prices below the CMED’s set value, violating regulations governing the disposal of vehicles.
