Sports Reporter
Elta Nengomasha, the Director-General of Zimbabwe’s Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), has been suspended pending a hearing into allegations of misconduct.
This move comes after reports of internal conflicts and financial improprieties during her tenure. Insiders claim that Nengomasha received benefits exceeding $20,000, despite being entitled to less than $10,000, and that several sporting associations reported funding discrepancies during the SRC’s annual general meeting.
There are suggestions that Nengomasha may have stepped on the toes of influential individuals, a move that could have contributed to her downfall.
“In Zimbabwe’s public sector, misappropriation is frequently overlooked if one is seen as politically correct,” one anonymous source said.
Nengomasha’s leadership style has been criticized for fostering a toxic work environment, marked by humiliation, threats, and declining morale.
An HR consultancy review recommended restructuring measures, including job cuts and re-grading, but employees allege that SRC leadership withheld the assessment results and bypassed the Works Council.
Resignations and Criticisms:
- Angeline Mudada, Director of Legal and Corporate Services, resigned citing a toxic work environment, excessive workload, and unpaid benefits.
- N. Chevene, Acting Procurement Manager, resigned due to a hostile work environment and feeling undermined by Nengomasha’s criticisms.
- Employees accuse Nengomasha of creating an unbearable work environment.
Nengomasha made history as the first woman to lead the SRC, assuming office on April 1, 2023, with a pledge to enhance Zimbabwe’s sports sector.
“I am ready and committed to fulfilling the mandate of this appointment,” she said at the time of her appointment, expressing gratitude to the SRC Board, Minister Kirsty Coventry, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
However, her tenure quickly became turbulent. Sebastian Garikai will now serve as Acting Director-General until further notice.
Zim GBC News©2024