Councillor accused of nepotism & extortion after allegedly hiring 8 people from the same family

Councillor Monica Lubimbi, whose jurisdiction encompasses Lobengula West 3, Magwegwe North and Magwegwe West, has been accused of nepotism and extortion after she allegedly hired 8 members of the same family to be part of the community sweeping groups. Lubimbi is accused of demanding bribes of up to $50 to enroll residents in the scheme and is said to take a monthly tribute of about $40 to keep residents on the list.

In a letter to government and the Bulawayo City Council, residents state that Clr Lubimbi repeatedly employed Khumbulani Phiri, Collen Phiri, Violet Phiri, Lifina Phiri, Paul Phiri, Charles Phiri, Darren Phiri, Farai Sibanda, (alleged boyfriend to Monica Lubimbi), Farai Sibanda’s son, Esnath Mlauzi, Lameck Mlauzi (husband to Esnath) and Dorcas Mlauzi (Lameck and Esnath’s daughter). When contacted by The Chronicle, Lubimbi said the matter was resolved and that there were no issues between her and the people she serves.

Town Clerk, Mr Christopher Dube, declined to comment although he confirmed he was aware of the matter. Bulawayo Mayor Martin Moyo yesterday told The Chronicle that he had received a report about the matter on Friday and investigations were underway.