Political Reporter
Citizens Coalition for Change’s (CCC) losing candidate for Bikita East Ward 16, Munyaradzi Matezwa, has been accused of deceitfully extorting money from community members under the guise of facilitating food aid.
A source closely associated with the developments disclosed to this publication that Matezwa has amassed over US$1 000.00 by charging a US$2.00 "facilitation fee" to desperate community members eager to receive food donations from an unidentified benefactor.
"The audacity with which Matezwa has exploited the vulnerability of our community is appalling. He has pocketed more than a thousand dollars from people who are barely surviving, promising them food aid that never materialised," the source lamented.
Matezwa's alleged fraudulent behaviour has not only outraged community members but also estranged him from his former allies within the CCC.
The source said that CCC's Bikita East losing candidate, Boniface Mudzingwa, has vehemently condemned Matezwa's actions, labelling him a thief and a fraudster.
"Mudzingwa recently told people who were gathered at Chigumirwa Business Centre in Bikita East that Matezwa was nothing but a thief and a fraudster who deserves to be behind bars,” said the source.
According to the source, the fallout from Matezwa's actions has led to growing calls within the CCC members in Bikita East Ward 16 for his removal from the position of shadow councillor.
“Members argue that his continued association with the CCC will tarnish the party's reputation and undermine its commitment to serving the public. Matezwa has proven himself to be of no use to the community, engaging in deceitful acts rather than assisting those in need. His removal is imperative for the integrity of the party," said the source.
Amidst the controversy, a collective of Bikita East Ward 16 villagers has begun advocating for Matezwa's arrest, urging authorities to take swift action against what they see as blatant exploitation of the community's trust and goodwill.
Their calls for accountability reflect a broader demand for transparency and ethical conduct among political representatives, especially in times of need.
