By Simba Munyua
Bikita South legislator Energy Mutodi has been immediately removed as the chairperson of Parliament’s influential Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance and Investment Promotion. The dismissal follows a public row over explosive, yet ultimately retracted, corruption allegations he leveled against Treasury Secretary George Guvamatanga on social media.
Mutodi had alleged on X (formerly Twitter) that Guvamatanga was demanding kickbacks ranging between five and ten percent from government contractors, ministries, and departments in exchange for the timely release of budgeted national funds. The claims generated immediate shockwaves across the country’s government and business circles, placing a harsh spotlight on the Ministry of Finance.
However, the controversy quickly culminated in Mutodi’s dismissal after he publicly retracted his statements, admitting he could not substantiate the serious allegations.
Immediate Termination
Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda confirmed the termination in a letter issued to the legislator, citing parliamentary procedure as the grounds for the immediate removal from the influential post.
“This serves to notify you that pursuant to Standing Order No. 19 of the National Assembly, the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders (CSRO) has resolved to terminate your tenure as Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance and Investment Promotion with immediate effect,” wrote Mudenda.
The Speaker emphasized the permanence of the decision: “Consequently, all benefits and entitlements attendant upon the said role shall likewise be discontinued forthwith. Please be guided accordingly.”
Mutodi’s removal comes at a critical time when the government is facing heightened scrutiny over transparency in the handling of public funds, as the Treasury battles mounting pressure to rein in spending and rebuild public trust amid economic instability.
History of Controversy
This is not the first time Mutodi, known for his provocative public statements, has faced termination from a high-profile government role.
In 2020, he was fired from his position as Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services after a public clash with then-Minister Monica Mutsvangwa. Mutodi had controversially claimed at the time that Minister Mutsvangwa was abusing state-controlled media resources.
The latest episode underscores the high stakes involved in public accusations against senior government officials, particularly those concerning finance and public integrity.
