HARARE – The director general of the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStats), Taguma Mahonde, finds himself entangled in a web of controversy and legal troubles as he faces allegations of fraud, obstruction of justice, and intimidation. Mahonde has been accused of claiming US$4,000 as school fees allowance for a child who, according to authorities, does not exist.
This startling revelation has sent shockwaves through the nation, raising questions about corruption and misuse of power within government agencies.
In addition to the alleged fraudulent school fees claims, Taguma Mahonde’s name has been associated with a controversial deal involving a Toyota Land Cruiser. Reports suggest that Mahonde secured a service car, a Toyota Land Cruiser valued at US$28,000, for an astonishingly low sum of just US$300 after serving for only three years of service.
According to some sources, the Toyota Land Cruiser was purchased at a total cost of US$400,000 three years before. An official letter by the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED) managing director Davison Mhaka authorized this purchase.
This remarkable discount on the Toyota Land Cruiser has raised eyebrows and led to questions about the transparency and ethical standards within government agencies. The circumstances surrounding the acquisition of the vehicle have fueled speculation and public scrutiny.
Intimidation and Evidence Tampering Allegations
Zimlive reports that the accusations against Mahonde extend beyond fraudulent claims and questionable vehicle deals. ZACC alleges that he used his authority to intimidate witnesses and manipulate evidence. Prosecution spokesperson Erica Chacha expressed concerns about witness interference if Mahonde were granted bail. Chacha stated,
“The degree of interference is so severe… I can quote the words, we are in possession of the recordings… So it’s my fear that if he’s granted bail, we won’t have any witness who will come to this court to testify.”
The prosecution also raised concerns about the potential manipulation of evidence, as Mahonde had control over documents pivotal to the case.
According to the state, Mahonde repeatedly claimed school fees allowances for a non-existent child, resulting in substantial financial losses to ZimStats.
Furthermore, investigators discovered that Mahonde had refunded a portion of the alleged ill-gotten funds, but the refunded amount did not match the initial claim, raising more questions about his actions.
Public Outcry and Further Investigations
This case has sparked outrage among the Zimbabwean public, who demand transparency and accountability from their government officials. As investigations continue, authorities are delving deeper into Mahonde’s financial activities, scrutinizing his management of ZimStats, and seeking answers about the controversial Toyota Land Cruiser deal.
The case against Mahonde serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards and fighting corruption at all levels of government.
In the coming weeks, Zimbabweans will be closely following the legal proceedings against Taguma Mahonde, eagerly awaiting justice and hoping for a system that holds public officials accountable for their actions, both in financial matters and dealings such as the Toyota Land Cruiser acquisition.-iharare
