CCC councillor sues PSC over teacher’s alleged partisan political activities

An opposition councillor from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has taken legal action to compel the Public Service Commission (PSC) to discipline a teacher accused of engaging in active partisan politics. The case, filed at the High Court of Zimbabwe, centres on David Masomere, a teacher at Ndarama High School, who is alleged to have breached constitutional provisions governing the conduct of civil servants.

Councillor Denford Ngadziore filed the application under case number HCMSC401/25 on July 16, 2025. The matter is being heard by Justice Christopher Dube-Banda in Masvingo. Ngadziore argues that Masomere’s involvement in political activities linked to the ruling ZANU PF violates Section 200(3) of the Constitution, which requires members of the civil service to remain politically neutral in the execution of their duties.

“Members of the Civil Service may not act in a partisan manner or further the interests of any political party,” Ngadziore states in court papers.

According to the application, Masomere frequently serves as a master of ceremonies at ZANU PF rallies, including events addressed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Ngadziore alleges that some of these activities take place during school hours, raising concerns about absenteeism and dereliction of duty. A parent from the school, who declined to be named, said,

“We are worried about the quality of education if teachers are not consistently in class. Learners need stability.”

Masomere, a Physical Education and Mass Displays teacher, is also accused of failing to report for duty regularly.

The court application further alleges that Masomere actively campaigned for ZANU-PF candidate Tsitsi Tawombera during the Glen View South by-election. Ngadziore claims Masomere operates a social media account under the handle @djmasomere1, where he allegedly posted on April 13, 2025, that he had been recognised by ZANU PF national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri as an official DJ for both the party and the President.

Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said the case could test the boundaries of civil servants’ political rights.

“While individuals have freedoms, public officials are bound by stricter rules to ensure neutrality and fairness,” he said.

Ngadziore said he approached the court after attempts to resolve the matter outside litigation failed. He claims Masomere refused to accept a formal letter of demand instructing him to cease partisan political activities.

“The letter was sent via courier, but he refused to collect it,” Ngadziore stated in his affidavit.

The councillor is being represented by Shava Law Chambers.

Legal experts say the outcome of the case could have wider implications for how Zimbabwe enforces constitutional provisions governing the conduct of civil servants. Constitutional lawyer Musa Kika said,

“If the court compels the PSC to act, it could set a precedent for stricter enforcement of political neutrality across the public sector.”

The PSC has not yet publicly responded to the application. As the case continues, it is expected to draw attention to the balance between individual political expression and the legal obligations of public servants in Zimbabwe.

CCC lawsuit Zimbabwe teacher politics