By Chiwoniso Mugwadi
Former MP Temba Mliswa has given the Zimbabwea Anti-Corruptipn Commission (ZACC) seven days to release his Toyota Hilux and account for US$53,000 he says was inside it.
He also accuses the anti-graft body’s officers of demanding a bribe and sitting on his complaint for three months.
The vehicle, a white Toyota Hilux GD6, Reg AAE 8748, Chassis, was intercepted at Lions Den Tollgate on 19 July 2026 on suspicion it was smuggled.
Mliswa says it was not.
Formal Accusation Against ZACC
In a formal complaint lodged on 24 July and received by ZACC the same day, Mliswa says he bought the vehicle from former Chegutu Rural District Council Chairman Tatenda Gwinji.
The deal is backed by a Council CEO letter dated 13 May 2024, an affidavit by Gwinji dated 14 May 2024, and a valid registration book from the Central Vehicle Registry.
Despite handing over the paper trail, Mliswa says he got no charge sheet or seizure inventory when ZACC seized the car.
Worse, he alleges, his driver received a call asking for money to clear the vehicle.
“Of grave concern is the fact that one of my drivers was allegedly approached… and requested to pay a bribe in order to facilitate the release,” Mliswa wrote to ZACC Chairman Honourable Reza.
“If true, this conduct strikes at the very foundation of the Commission’s mandate.”
Mliswa, who chairs the Southern African Parliamentarians Against Corruption (SAPNAC) accuses a named officer, Mr Tsindi, of leading a targeted campaign.
Corrupt ZACC Officials
“I wish to place on record my serious concern regarding the conduct of Mr Tsindi, whose actions appear to demonstrate a personal vendetta”.
He links Tsindi with a vendetta to protect corrupt officials in Hurungwe Rural District Council and Karoi Town Council.
“It is deeply troubling that corruption allegations involving institutions such as Hurungwe RDC and Karoi TC continue to attract widespread public concern.
“Yet there appears to be little visible enforcement action,” he said.
He alleges Tsindi even engaged the National Prosecuting Authority to stop arrests of suspects.
“Throughout my public life, I have consistently advocated for transparency.
“I remain prepared to submit myself to any lawful investigation.
“However, I cannot accept continued harassment, intimidation or the alleged solicitation of bribes.”
Mliswa’s lawyers, Masiya-Sheshe Associates, have set out five demands.
An independent probe into the bribe claim, investigation of Tsindi for abuse of office and interference with justice.
They also seek for confirmation of the Hilux’s legal status, final closure without harassment of family and workers, and disciplinary action if wrongdoing is found.
If ZACC fails, they warn of immediate court action for the vehicle, the cash and costs.
ZACC has not responded to questions at the time of publication.
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