Gweru not reinstating ex-town clerk

GWERU City Council has resolved not to reinstate its former town clerk, Mr Daniel Matawu, but instead offer him two weeks salary for every year served as a package.

Mr Reginald Chidawanyika of Chitere-Chidawanyika Legal Practitioners, who is representing Mr Matawu, confirmed the development.

“We are still to reach a compromise with council,” he said.

“Council is offering us two weeks salary per every year served.

“They are also offering backpay based on the reviewed salaries that were reduced by the commission (running the affairs of the city), whose extended tenure has since been nullified.

“The council is refusing to reinstate him and decided to give him a package.”

Some stakeholders say council management is conflicted since reinstating Mr Matawu would naturally prejudice them.

“The council gave management the mandate to negotiate with us on the terms and conditions, as well as the best possible way to resolve this impasse amicably,” said Mr Chidawanyika.

Mr Matawu is allegedly demanding a $1 million golden handshake in outstanding salary and allowances if Gweru City Council is willing to buy out his contract.

Gweru City Council spokesperson Dr Manford Gambiza could neither confirm nor deny the size of the package.

“Council is in discussion with Mr Matawu’s legal team regarding the outcome of the court ruling,” he said.

“No figures have been reached as purported by other sources.

“Let’s wait for the outcome of the discussions, as throwing figures at the moment may jeopardise fruitful discussions which are underway.”

The local authority has been locked in a series of meetings with Mr Matawu’s legal team to reach a compromise on the way forward and indications are that he may get a package if the two parties reach a consensus.

For the best part of last week, council officials have been holding marathon meetings on the way forward with their legal representatives Tawona and Jaravani Attorneys and Mr Chidawanyika.