MP Joel Sithole Nabbed in ZWG 1.2 Million CDF Scandal

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested Chiredzi South Member of Parliament Joel Sithole on charges of criminal abuse of duty after he allegedly misappropriated over ZWG 1.2 million from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

According to investigators, Sithole received ZWG 1,234,150 (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 and Makanani Clinic.

Authorities allege that soon 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 use.

Investigations further revealed that Sithole allegedly worked with an accomplice, Edson Chauke, who is still at large. The pair are accused of transferring ZWG 850,000 from the CDF account to a local wholesaler under the pretext of purchasing groceries.

In addition, Sithole allegedly spent ZWG 418,516 at grocery shops, hotels, and beer outlets.

To cover up the alleged misuse of funds, investigators say Sithole later purchased 100 bags of cement and a small quantity of roofing materials for a different school in an attempt to create the impression that project work had begun.

The alleged abuse of public funds has raised concerns about accountability in the management of constituency development resources.

Sithole is expected to appear before the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court on 26 March 2026 to face the charges. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, particularly in efforts to locate and arrest Chauke.