The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Member of Parliament for Chiredzi South, Joel Sithole, over allegations of abuse of duty after he reportedly misappropriated more than ZWG 1.2 million from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
In a statement yesterday, ZACC said Sithole received a CDF disbursement of ZWG 1,234,150.00 (approximately USD 50,000) from the Parliament of Zimbabwe in August 2025. The funds were intended for development projects in his constituency, including the construction of a classroom block and the roofing of staff houses at Gwaseche Primary School and Makanani Clinic.
“The suspect, who serves as the Chairperson of the Constituency Development Fund committee and is a signatory to the CDF bank account, allegedly diverted funds meant for community projects for personal gain,” ZACC said.
Investigations reportedly revealed that Sithole, acting in common purpose with one Edson Chauke, who is still at large, transferred ZWG 850,000 from the CDF account to a local wholesaler for the purchase of groceries.
The commission also stated that Sithole allegedly spent an additional ZWG 418,516.00 at grocery shops, hotels, and beer outlets.
“To conceal the misappropriation, Sithole allegedly purchased 100 bags of cement and a few roofing sheets for a different school, creating the impression that project work had commenced,” ZACC added.
The commission described the arrest as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.
“ZACC remains committed to rooting out corruption at all levels and ensuring that public funds are used for their intended purposes.
Misappropriation of development funds undermines national development and violates the trust placed in elected officials,” the statement said.
ZACC confirmed that Sithole is expected to appear before the Masvingo Magistrates Court tomorrow, 26 March 2026, to face charges of abuse of duty.
“The Commission calls upon all public officials to adhere strictly to financial regulations and to manage public resources responsibly,” ZACC urged.
CDF is a Government initiative designed to empower elected representatives to implement local development projects in their constituencies, including schools, clinics, and community infrastructure.
Mismanagement or diversion of these funds has been a persistent challenge, prompting stricter oversight and enforcement by ZACC.
Sithole’s arrest marks the latest in a series of high-profile cases highlighting the Commission’s intensified focus on public sector accountability and the fight against corruption.
