Zimbabwe's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education filed internal charges against eleven senior officers who serve as witnesses in corruption proceedings involving Masvingo Provincial Director Shylatte Mhike. Permanent Secretary Moses Mhike initiated these charges two weeks ago despite allegations that he maintains family ties to the accused provincial director. The charged officers consist primarily of accountants and District School Inspectors who provide testimony regarding financial misconduct allegations. Legal experts characterize this action as witness intimidation, as the officers are currently testifying against their superior in court. Officials describe the situation as unprecedented within government operations.
Several accountants retained legal representation through Philip Shumba's firm to contest the charging procedures. Lawyers argue that permanent secretaries lack the authority to charge officers outside their direct supervision. Provincial finance director Liniah Chinoda allegedly violated bail conditions by participating in the formal charging panel after receiving court orders prohibiting witness interference. Two scheduled witnesses withdrew from testifying last Wednesday due to fears of workplace retaliation. Legal professionals label the charges against witnesses as groundless and procedurally flawed.
Several accountants retained legal representation through Philip Shumba's firm to contest the charging procedures. Lawyers argue that permanent secretaries lack the authority to charge officers outside their direct supervision. Provincial finance director Liniah Chinoda allegedly violated bail conditions by participating in the formal charging panel after receiving court orders prohibiting witness interference. Two scheduled witnesses withdrew from testifying last Wednesday due to fears of workplace retaliation. Legal professionals label the charges against witnesses as groundless and procedurally flawed.
