Nkomo accused of nepotism

Analysts interviewed also accused Nkomo of unprofessionalism for unilaterally appointing a consultant to co-ordinate the new government MZWP without flighting an advertisement to allow experienced personnel to apply.

Nkomo announced that he had engaged the services of historian Pathisa Nyathi as a consultant for the project at a press conference held here recently. He said Nyathi would be responsible for liaison with the business sector, civil society and local authorities among other tasks.

However, the business community and commentators criticised Nkomo for the unilateral appointment of Nyathi.

The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Matabeleland regional manager, Bulisani Ncube, accused the minister of failing to undertake proper procedures in appointing Nyathi.

Proper procedures were not followed by water Resources Minister, Ncube said.

ZAPU spokesperson, Methuseli Moyo, also lambasted the move alleging that it was nepotism after it was revealed that Pathisa Nyathi’s son, Butholezwe, was working as a personal assistant for Nkomo.

I’m concerned, that is nepotism because the right way is to alert or flight a tender or an advert and get all the people who are interested and qualified to apply then you select, Moyo said.

There is no transparency in this whole thing. Nkomo is coming in claiming that others are not transparent and he wants to be transparent.

Nkomo could not be reached to comment on the accusations.

Meanwhile, the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project has been re-named the National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project.