A powerful syndicate of politically connected oligarchs engaged in illicit financial activities is actively working to oust Zimbabwe’s Finance Permanent Secretary, Mr. George Guvamatanga.
These individuals, who thrived under the previous Robert Mugabe administration, are now facing increased scrutiny and accountability due to Guvamatanga’s fiscal reforms.
Investigations revealed that Guvamatanga’s efforts to combat corruption and financial mismanagement have made him a target for those seeking to protect their lucrative, but illegal, schemes.
Under Mugabe’s regime, some influential businessmen siphoned off government funds without providing services.
Guvamatanga has sought to eliminate these practices under the second republic.
A cabinet minister, who wished to remain anonymous, fearing victimisation said that prominent corporate leaders are opposed to Guvamatanga for closing financial loopholes.
“Since Mr. Guvamatanga became Permanent Secretary, all civil servants have received their salaries on time.
“He also ensures timely payments to contractors, accelerating infrastructure development projects nationwide,” said the minister.
“His only ‘crime’ is preventing rogue individuals from siphoning money from the national treasury,” added the minister.
The minister also noted that Guvamatanga, a farmer and businessman who made his fortune prior to his government role as a former banker at Barclays Bank, operates a successful dairy farm in Chivhu.
“Guvamatanga’s entrepreneurial journey began with a modest dairy farm in Chivhu.
“Starting with just four cows a decade ago, his unwavering dedication and hard work have led to a remarkable transformation,” said the minister.
“Today, his farm boasts a herd of 2800 cows, supplying a substantial 27,000 liters of milk per day to Dairyboard.
“This daily production, valued at $1.5 per liter, generates a monthly income of $40,500, equivalent to approximately US$1.2 million.
“Sponsored attacks on him are baseless,” said the Minister.
A Zanu PF Politburo member added that allegations of Guvamatanga owning properties abroad are unfounded.
“The days of amassing wealth without contributing to the economy are over.
“Many top figures are resentful because money is now being allocated to those who deliver results.
“The Presidium is satisfied with his performance, which is why he remains in office. His work speaks for itself,” said the Politburo member.
The Zanu PF Politburo said the ruling part my was aware of a well-orchestrated campaign to tarnish Guvamatanga’s reputation in the media.
“A report is being prepared to expose the unscrupulous business syndicate behind these attacks, which will be presented to the Politburo,” said the Politburo member.
Under Guvamatanga’s leadership over the past 44 years, Zimbabwe has seen significant progress, including rehabilitated roads, newly commissioned buildings, innovation hubs at state universities, air ambulances, high-end vehicles, solar boreholes, operational village business units, and several new dams.
