Patrick Sagandira, the Member of Parliament for Makoni Central representing the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) for allegedly occupying and developing state land without proper authorization.
The arrest took place on Friday, with authorities accusing Sagandira of contravening Section 63 of the Land Commission Act [Chapter 20:04].
Investigations reveal that in 2023, Sagandira reportedly took possession of a 300-square-meter plot in Rusape, Manicaland Province, and proceeded to develop it into a grinding mill site, despite not holding a valid lease or permit from the Rusape Town Council. The land in question had been designated by local authorities for parking and landscaping.
It is further alleged that the MP leased out portions of the structures to other operators, including those running a furniture store and a brick-moulding enterprise.
The council had previously ordered Sagandira to dismantle the unauthorized developments in line with Section 32 of the Regional, Town, and Country Planning Act [Chapter 29:12]. However, he is said to have disregarded the directive and continued his operations.
As a result of his continued non-compliance, the matter was escalated to ZACC, culminating in his arrest.
Sagandira is expected to appear at the Mutare Magistrates Court today, June 21, 2025, for his initial remand hearing.
