GMB keen to recover cars from ex-GM

By Tendai Kamhungira

HARARE – The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has filed a lawsuit against its former general manager Albert Mandizha, seeking to recover two motor vehicles.

According to court papers filed by GMB chairperson Charles Chikaura, the State grain utility is seeking an order compelling Mandizha to return the company’s Toyota Hilux and a Land Rover Discovery.

Mandizha’s contract was terminated at the expiry of his term in November 2014.

He had been allocated the two motor vehicles to use in the discharge of his duties.

Following the expiry of his contract of employment, the court heard that Mandizha requested to remain as the company’s general manager on a caretaker basis, while the firm’s board was determining the way forward.

Mandizha was reportedly advised that the arrangement was to be reviewed on a monthly basis, but was advised that he was only going to work until end of January this year.

He was allowed to remain with the motor vehicles until end of February this year, before being offered an option to buy the Land Rover Discovery.

The court heard that his terminal benefits were later calculated and it was discovered that he was in the negative and the company demanded that he returns the cars.

GMB claimed in court papers that Mandizha refused to surrender the motor vehicles.

Mandizha argued that GMB had unlawfully terminated his contract of employment.

He said that he specifically made a request to continue using the motor vehicles pending the finalisation of his exit package, adding that such permission was granted.

Mandizha further said that it was clear that he was going to use his exit package to pay for the motor vehicles.

He said that there was a labour dispute surrounding his employment termination, further claiming that he had not been paid his terminal benefits.

The High Court is still to determine the case. Daily News