Vic Falls Town Clerk reinstated amid corruption allegations

Peter Moyo

The local government scene in Victoria Falls has been engulfed in controversy, with Town Clerk Ronnie Dube at the heart of allegations involving corruption and abuse of office.

Dube was initially suspended by Mayor Councillor Prince Thuso Moyo on charges of improperly allocating residential stands and awarding contracts without adhering to tender procedures. However, this suspension was short-lived as the High Court in Bulawayo intervened, quashing the council’s investigation and leading to Dube’s reinstatement on January 2, 2025, shortly after his suspension on December 4, 2024.

The rapid legal and administrative shifts have left the community in Victoria Falls with a sense of frustration and skepticism. One resident, speaking anonymously, likened the situation to “watching a ping-pong match, but with our city’s governance. One moment he’s out, the next he’s back in. Where’s the transparency?” This reflects widespread concerns about the clarity and integrity of local governance processes.

The community’s response has been vocal, with demonstrations by residents highlighting their discontent with the reinstatement and the perceived lack of accountability. These protests have added another layer of public pressure on the local government to address these governance issues transparently.

Tinashe Moyo, a local resident had this to say, “Relieved that our town clerk is back, but this whole saga leaves a lot to be desired about how our council operates.” This sentiment captures the mixed feelings among residents—some relieved by the continuity of leadership, others critical of the process.

A councillor, choosing anonymity, hinted at external influence in the decision-making, stating, “The decision to reinstate was from above, we had to comply,” suggesting a possible interplay between local councils and the powers that be. This has sparked discussions on the autonomy of local governance.

Local business owners are also weighing in, with one expressing, “We want to trust our leaders, but trust is earned through transparency and accountability, not through legal back-and-forths.” This statement underscores a broader call for systemic reform in local governance practices.

While Dube has been reinstated, the saga might not conclude here. The community remains watchful, pushing for changes that could redefine how local governance operates in Victoria Falls, potentially setting a precedent for other municipalities in Zimbabwe.