STAFF WRITER
CONFUSION over the suspension of Victoria Falls Town Clerk Ronnie Dube continues to reign supreme, with latest reports indicating that the move was questionable.
Victoria Falls mayor Somveli Dlamini last week suspended Dube with immediate effect with no pay and benefits pending investigations on charges of corruption, abuse of office and incompetence.
However in a twist of events, Dube fired back arguing he was still on the job.
“As far as I am concerned, the suspension I know of is that circulating on social media. I have not received any letter to that effect, and such, I have disregarded the so-called suspension as I continue with my official duties. The mayor never convened any special council meeting on this so-called suspension. I remain the Town Clerk,” charged Dube in a development that is likely to set a stage for a brutal internal warfare.
However, Victoria Falls Residents Association secretary general Nguquko Tshili said Dube’s suspension needed more clarity.
“We saw the accusations, but our problem is Dlamini hasn’t brought the allegations on paper. It becomes difficult for us to say anything.
“This is the third time that Dlamini has suspended the town clerk without solid evidence. I am sure they are bringing their personal issues to the stage. We have tried to engage both sides but its only Dube who has given us his side of the story whereas Dlamini hasn’t been forthcoming, so it’s really a confusing situation,” Tshili said.
In suspending Dube, Dlamini said in his letter: “It appears to me there are acts of misconduct or omission inconsistent with the fulfilment of the express or implied conditions of your contract or duties that needs to be investigated. It is prudent that you are suspended from duty and office of Town Clerk in order to pave way for investigations which when concluded will guide council on the course of action to take.”
Dube, a former chief executive officer of the Tsholotsho Rural District (RDC) once served as the Victoria Falls chamber secretary. He was appointed Town Clerk in December 2016.
Dube’s suspension comes barely a month after the local authority renewed his contract by another five years after receiving praise on his workmanship.
