Former Harare Director gets US$329 000 compensation for suspension

Zim Now Writer

Harare City Council acting human capital director, Matthew Marara, has received compensation of US$329 000 for the period he was on suspension over corruption charges.

Harare deputy mayor, Kudzai Kadzombe confirmed the development although she could not confirm the exact amount paid.

“Unlike other managers, he was on suspension for almost three years without his dues. When he returned to work his dues were calculated, but, I am not aware of the amount (he was paid). But we don’t pay in foreign currency at Harare City Council. Our employees only get a US$50 component. So, getting US$329 000, I am not aware of that figure,” said Kadzombe.

Interestingly, sources said, there was no council resolution for the compensation, as the local authority is struggling to pay its staff.

A source, who preferred anonymity, said:

“Marara was awarded about US$329 000 for the almost three years he was on suspension, but the issue is that he had resigned through an email so, he was not supposed to get that money.”

Marara, who was housing director at the Harare City Council, was suspended in 2020 overs corruption allegations related to residential stands. He was suspended alongide other HCC officials who were in the Survey Section, including Edgar Dzehonye and Tonderai Mukora.