Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
BULAWAYO – Christopher Dube has officially stepped down from his position as the Town Clerk of Bulawayo after his contract was not renewed by the responsible Ministry, as announced by acting Mayor Edwin Ndlovu on Wednesday.
Dube had held the role since October 1, 2016, succeeding the late Middleton Nyoni.
In a formal media communique, Ndlovu stated,
“The town clerk’s (second) four-year contract with the City of Bulawayo ended at midnight on September 30, 2024. Whereas Council had resolved in February this year to extend the contract subject to approval by the Local Government Board, a request for approval was sent to the board on March 25, 2024. However, by the end of September 30, 2024, such approval had not been obtained.
In the circumstances therefore, the town clerk vacated office at midnight on September 30, 2024, by expiration of contract.”
Interim Leadership
Following Dube’s departure, Chamber Secretary Sikhangele Zhou will serve as the acting town clerk until a new successor is appointed. Ndlovu indicated that the city would soon initiate the search for a new town clerk, emphasizing the importance of this role in the local government.
Controversies During Tenure
Dube’s tenure was not without its challenges. In 2019, he faced a significant threat to his position when a faction of councillors attempted to oust him. This incident escalated when he was denied access to his office for several days. The councillors, led by then deputy mayor Tinashe Kambarami, took advantage of Mayor Solomon Mguni’s absence to suspend Dube over corruption allegations.
The situation reached a boiling point when a confrontation between Dube and Kambarami was captured in a viral video. In the video, Dube expressed his defiance, stating, “Ngizaphuma nxa iwofisi ingekanyoko (I will only leave office if it’s your mother’s).” Ultimately, Dube’s suspension was nullified by Mayor Mguni, allowing him to return to his duties.
Background and Legacy
Dube, a war veteran, previously served as the town clerk in Victoria Falls before taking on the role in Bulawayo. His leadership has been marked by both achievements and controversies, reflecting the complexities of managing a city in Zimbabwe’s challenging political landscape. As Bulawayo prepares for a new chapter, the search for Dube’s successor will be closely watched by both residents and local officials.
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