Chiredzi South MP Arrested Over Alleged Misuse of US$50k CDF Funds

 

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested Chiredzi South legislator Joel Sithole on allegations of abuse of duty involving the suspected misappropriation of Constituency Development Fund resources.

According to ZACC, Sithole allegedly received ZWG1,234,150 (approximately US$50,000) from the Parliament of Zimbabwe in August 2025 for constituency development projects. The funds were earmarked for the construction of a classroom block and roofing of staff houses at Gwaseche Primary School, as well as similar works at Makanani Clinic.

Investigators allege that after receiving the funds, Sithole—who serves as chairperson of the CDF committee and is a signatory to its bank account—diverted the money for personal and unrelated use.

ZACC further claims that Sithole, acting in common purpose with Edson Chauke, who is still at large, transferred ZWG850,000 from the CDF account to a local wholesaler for the purchase of groceries. In addition, he allegedly spent ZWG418,516 at various grocery shops, hotels, and beer outlets.

Authorities also allege that in an attempt to conceal the misuse of funds, Sithole later purchased 100 bags of cement and a small quantity of roofing materials for a different school to create the impression that the intended projects had commenced.

Sithole is expected to appear before the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court on March 26, 2026. ZACC said investigations into the matter are ongoing.