Midweek Watch Reporter
MASVINGO CITY- Newly elected councilor for ward 2 (Runyararo West) in Masvingo Urban, prominent businessman Benson ‘Dembare’ Hwata was officially sworn in on Friday January 5 at council chambers.
Hwata becomes the first ruling Zanu PF councilor to represent the ward since the establishment of the residential area 20 years ago as it has always been under the opposition.
The swearing in ceremony was attended by residents, fellow councilors, management and government officials.
Hwata was elected into office through a by- election on 9 December following the recall of former Masvingo City Council’s first female Mayor, Shantiel Chiwara of CCC) by self styled interim secretary general the infamous Sengezo Tshabangu.
The newly sworn in councilor is optimistic of changing the fortunes of the high density area which is affected by poor service delivery, poor drainage and potholes while facing politically polarized ratepayers.
Hwata who is not new to the electorate of ward 2 as he tried in 2013, 2018 and last year in August without luck.
However, some Runyararo West residents feel Hwata won’t do much for the ward as he resides in the affluent Rhodine suburb and seems to be out of touch on the daily struggles the residents face.
Residents who talked to the Midweek Watch said only time will tell if the Zanu PF councilor will fulfill his long time promises of creating employment for the youths, establishing a community center, building of a secondary school as well as overseeing the smooth relocation of 20 houses set for demolition built on a wetland.
The swearing in ceremony was presided over by Town Clerk, Engineer Mukaratirwa.
