Key Points
- Kanopula is accused of corrupt land sales and fund misuse.
- Residents allege cooperative funds vanished under suspicious circumstances.
- Leadership disputes have led to mistrust and legal battles.
Trymore Kanopula, often known as TK, is a lawmaker from Harare South who has been connected to suspected corruption involving the Simon Muzenda Housing Cooperative.
Simon Muzenda Housing Cooperative plagued by allegations of corruption
Within the cooperative, which was founded in 2012 to build 400 residential stands and supply essential infrastructure, including as schools, clinics, and recreational areas, the Zanu PF lawmaker is charged with engaging in irregular land purchases and dubious financial transactions.
Disgruntled locals told reporters that the cooperative’s development has been hampered by internal conflicts, inadequate governance, and a lack of openness. It has been revealed that more than 600 stands, including those designated for public facilities, were sold under dubious conditions, with the money raised going to private citizens.
In addition, a private developer’s stands were sold without permission, escalating ownership problems.
Residents accuse Kanopula of exploiting his political influence
Residents said that Kanopula sold plots on wetlands and repurposed land meant for hospitals and schools for residential use, among other illicit land sales, with the help of his political connections.
“There is no accountability, and meetings have been halted. According to a source who wished to remain anonymous, “We have no idea where our money is going.”
Cooperative members said they paid $30 apiece to confirm state land allotment and regularize land use. According to reports, the over $6,000 in payments vanished without a trace.
Kanopula has refuted any misconduct. “I have no knowledge of that. Anyone should notify the police if they believe they were tricked. “Anyone who plays with my name will face legal action,” he declared.
As stated by New Zimbabwe, the claims have been refuted by the cooperative’s management. Gilbert Manatsa, a committee member, stated that development was proceeding according to plan and that monies were utilized responsibly.
“We have not heard any grievances from members.” People who don’t want us to succeed are making these unfounded accusations, Manatsa stated.
Mufanochiya’s assertions were refuted by a 2023 audit by the Small and Medium Enterprises Ministry, which resulted in a member registration and new elections.
The High Court is now considering the case. Chingwaru expressed confidence that the judiciary would deal with these unfounded accusations.
Kanopula has been connected to scandals in the past. He assured locals during the 2023 election campaign that cooperatives would obtain title deeds under President Mnangagwa’s housing plan, but the pledge has not been met.
In a conflict with the Pungwe-Chimurenga Housing Cooperative in September 2023, Kanopula was also charged of turning land intended for community and commercial uses into residential stands for his own benefit.Â
