Returning to work … Bernard Manyenyen
Acting local government minister, Jonathan Moyo, recently wrote to Manyenyeni, telling him he could return to work with effect from June 7.
The minister did not explain why the government had not set up an independent tribunal, as required by law, to probe allegations against the opposition MDC-T mayor.
Manyenyeni was suspended by local government minister and ruling Zanu PF party national commissar, Saviour Kasukuwere, in March this year.
The mayor challenged his removal from office in the courts but was told that the minister was empowered to suspended him.
The High Court however, ruled that the minister must establish a tribunal to probe allegations against Manyenyeni within 45 days, failing which the mayor would return to Town House.
Moyo confirmed the development in a recent letter to the mayor.
“I write further to Honourable Kasukuwere’s minutes dated 20 April, 2016 which suspended you as councillor for Ward 17 and from the office of Mayor of the City of Harare.
“Please note that this serves to reinstate you as Mayor of the City of Harare and councillor for Ward 17 with effect from 7 June, 2016,” the minister wrote in a letter seen by State media.
Manyenyeni said Moyo did not explain the government’s decision.
“I can confirm that I received a letter from the Acting Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Professor Jonathan Moyo informing me that the ministry had lifted my suspension,” he told The Herald.
“There is a lot that needs to be done. I am happy to be leading council again. The confusion of the last 45 days is regrettable.”
Kasukuwere ordered Manyenyeni out of Town House, accusing the mayor of violating Sections of the Urban Councils Act.
The allegations related to the appointment of former banker James Mushore as Harare’s new Town Clerk.
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