BPRA Condemns Corruption Amid Arrest of Bulawayo Councillors

The Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) has condemned corruption in local government following the arrest of Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu and the Chairperson of the Council’s Finance and Development Committee, Councillor Mpumelelo Moyo, by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).

The councillors are accused of soliciting a bribe during the allocation of land to Labenmom Investments, a company seeking to invest in the city. BPRA commended the whistleblower who reported the case and praised ZACC for acting swiftly.

“We strongly condemn any form of corruption, as it hinders sustainable development within our communities and violates the principles of good governance,” the association said.

The allegations involve the councilors demanding a bribe to facilitate a land deal with Labenmom Investments. The arrests followed reports of irregularities in the allocation process, with a leaked audio recording circulating online allegedly implicating the councilors.

The case has raised concerns about governance practices within the Bulawayo City Council. Sources indicate ongoing disputes involving tender allocations and alleged interference by some councilors in operational matters.

BPRA’s Call for Integrity

BPRA’s statement emphasized the need for ethical leadership and transparency in land allocations. “We call for transparency to prevent corruption and urge protection for whistleblowers in this case,” the association said. The organization also urged ZACC to release a detailed report of its findings to foster public confidence in the investigation. “This matter must be handled with the utmost integrity to ensure accountability,” BPRA added.

The case has also exposed divisions within the council, with accusations of factions vying for control over resources. Previous reports have highlighted tensions between the council’s management and councillors regarding governance and tender processes.

BPRA urged ZACC to maintain impartiality and release its findings promptly. “The public deserves transparency in this matter. The process must be free from political influence,” the association emphasized.

Broader Implications

The arrests have reignited discussions about systemic governance reforms in Zimbabwe’s municipalities. Analysts suggest stricter oversight mechanisms for land and tender processes, alongside increased public participation in decision-making.

BPRA highlighted the importance of safeguarding whistleblowers, warning that without adequate protection, efforts to combat corruption could be undermined.

Moving Forward

As ZACC’s investigation progresses, the case has become a critical test for transparency and accountability in Bulawayo’s governance. The outcome will likely shape public confidence in the city’s leadership.

BPRA concluded its statement with a call for reform and accountability. “The people of Bulawayo deserve leaders who prioritize the public good over personal gain. Corruption has no place in our society,” it stated.