By Fanuel Chinowaita
Rusape, June 20, 2025 — The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has confirmed the arrest of Makoni Central Member of Parliament, Patrick Sagandira, on allegations of unlawfully occupying and developing state land in violation of Section 63 of the Land Commission Act [Chapter 20:04].
Sagandira is accused of illegally allocating himself a 300-square-meter plot of state land in 2023 without securing a lease or permit from the Rusape Town Council. The land, which was designated for parking and landscaping according to the council’s development plan, was allegedly converted by the legislator into structures housing his grinding mill business.
Further allegations indicate that Sagandira leased portions of the illegal premises to two individuals operating a furniture shop and a brick-moulding business.
Despite being ordered by the Rusape Town Council to demolish the structures in compliance with Section 32 of the Regional and Town Planning Act [Chapter 29:12], the MP reportedly defied the directive and continued operations.
The matter was reported to ZACC, leading to the legislator’s arrest. Sagandira is expected to appear at the Mutare Magistrates Court tomorrow for initial remand.