Banda hearing postponed
SUSPENDED Bulawayo deputy mayor Gift Banda and another councillor have expressed disappointment for being kept in the dark over their impending hearings, following a false start yesterday.
Clr Banda and Clr Reuben Matengu were supposed to appear before a three-member tribunal yesterday but the hearing did not kick off.
A source said there were some challenges that led to the hearing being postponed to a date that is yet to be announced.
The source refused to reveal what the hold-up was.
However, the suspended duo told The Chronicle that they were still in the dark regarding the hearing.
They said since their suspension they have not received any communication from the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing.
Clr Banda said failure by the parent ministry to communicate with them was worrying.
“As the accused I haven’t been told about the case. I don’t even know that the tribunal has been set besides what I read in The Chronicle,” said Clr Banda.
He said he was surprised to learn that he was supposed to appear before a tribunal THOUSANDS of Bulawayo residents on Tuesday turned up for the Healing Jesus Campaign crusade at the White City Stadium expecting miracles and salvation.
The crusade led by Ghanaian Evangelist Dag Heward Mills drew Christians from many denominations. The stadium was packed and parking space was hard to secure.
The event began with praise and worship from the combined choir, with many in the crowd joining the singers on stage as they led them in popular hymns such as Alpha and Omega and Jesus Loves me, Yes I Know.
When Evangelist Heward Mills came on stage at about 8.30PM, the expectant crowd yesterday yet nothing was communicated to him.
Clr Banda said the ministry should inform them in time of its intentions as they do not want to be ambushed.
His views were echoed by Clr Matengu who said he was still in the dark regarding his suspension.
Clr Matengu said the Government should expedite the process so that his name can be cleared.
“This is affecting me because I believe I consulted and everything was done above board,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Engineer George Mlilo, on Tuesday said the Government cannot determine the period that will be taken by the tribunal to investigate the case.
Two weeks ago the Government exonerated three other councillors Charles Moyo (Ward Nine), Mzama Dube (Ward 25) and James Sithole (Ward Seven) after incriminating evidence could not be found against them.
The five councillors were suspended recently on allegations that they allocated themselves large tracts of land without following proper procedures.
The Bulawayo Progressive Residents’ Association raised concerns over the land grabbing by the councillors and the Government took action. — @nqotshili
Thousands attend Healing Jesus Campaign crusade
went into a frenzy with cheers and ululations.
The interpreter of the night, Reverend Paul Damasane was a marvel to watch with his eloquent isiNdebele and witty interpretations thrilling the crowd.
Some residents who attended the crusade told Chronicle that they were optimistic of receiving miracles.
“I came as early as 3PM and waited patiently for Evangelist Mills. I want to hear the word of God and the Man of God delivered on his word,” said Mrs Nokulunga Bhebhe from Old Magwegwe.
Mr Norman Taruvinga from Waterford said it was a rare opportunity to attend a crusade where transport is provided for free.
“I have heard about the campaign but when I saw buses near my home, I felt something telling me to go and hear the word of God,” said Mr Taruvinga. — @AuxiliaK