Staff Reporter

Workers at the Chitungwiza municipality are raising alarm over unpaid salaries and arrears that have accumulated since January 2024.

A source who spoke to this publication said that the situation has not only placed financial burdens on the employees but is also undermining the quality of municipal services offered to the public.

The source said that the Citizens Coalition for Change-led municipality has been unable to fulfil its salary commitments for the past three months, and this has led to growing frustration among the workforce.

"The delay in salary payments has forced some of us to engage in regrettable actions. There is an increasing trend of council workers soliciting extra payments for services, a malpractice that is now affecting even the most critical sectors, including our clinics,” said the source.

The same source articulated the growing resentment among the workforce, stating, "It's unacceptable for the Chitungwiza municipality to disregard the basic needs of its employees while those at the top seem to be living in a different reality. The council owes it to its dedicated workers to settle these arrears immediately. It's ironic and disheartening to see executives enjoying a comfortable lifestyle as the very people who keep this town running are languishing in poverty."

This troubling scenario has caught the attention of political commentators, who called for immediate intervention by the council's management.

Political analyst Elton Ziki emphasised the urgent need for action.

 "The failure to pay workers not only demoralizes the workforce but directly impacts the quality of services residents rely on. It's imperative for the council to address these salary issues without delay to restore trust and ensure the continued provision of essential services," Ziki stated.

Meanwhile, the crisis in Chitungwiza mirrors challenges faced by other opposition-led councils across the country, notably highlighted by a recent tragedy in Harare.

The collapse of a neglected building in the capital city resulted in one death and several injuries, casting a spotlight on the deteriorating infrastructure under the stewardship of opposition councils.

Critics argue that such incidents underscore a broader issue of mismanagement and neglect, posing serious risks to public safety and welfare.