Harare Correspondent
CHINHOYI — Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Councillor David Malunga (Ward 8) has requested Chinhoyi Municipality to deduct $75 monthly from his allowances to repay travel funds advanced for a Gweru trip he never undertook.
The unusual proposal has sparked debate over compliance with public finance regulations.
Malunga emailed Acting Town Clerk Eng. Simon Marara and Finance Director Mr. Zephaniah Chirarwe in May 2025, seeking to reimburse ZiG9,154.04 and US$337.37 paid to him in December 2024 for the cancelled trip.
According to Finance Committee minutes dated May 8:
“If the municipality deducts the full amount from his allowance, it would take 8 months to recover,” stated Chirarwe during the meeting.
The request conflicts with council policy. The Accounting Procedure Manual mandates full repayment within 30 days, while the Public Finance Management Regulations (2019) prohibit deviations.
Council Debate Reveals Policy Dilemma
Cllr Innocent Mangwanya argued: “This is administrative. The committee can’t make recommendations beyond policy.”
Cllr Garikai Dendera countered: “Months elapsed without repayment. He should’ve been advised immediately after defaulting.”
Acting Chamber Secretary Ms. Hilda Kabangure affirmed:
“Policy requirements
must be adhered to unconditionally.”
The matter was escalated to full council after officials confirmed no existing framework permits staggered repayment of misused public funds.
Malunga’s proposal remains unresolved amid concerns over accountability precedents.
Zim GBC News2025