Raphael Mushanawani, the CEO of NetOne, Zimbabwe’s state-owned mobile operator, has been arrested over allegations of fraud involving over $1.2 million. The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) claims Mushanawani secretly contracted Lunartech Solutions to upgrade the SAGE 1000 system, despite a $3.5 million deal with Farevic Systems to replace it.

Mushanawani allegedly signed two addendums with Lunartech, inflating costs to over $1.2 million for a system already slated for replacement. He also approved a $79,467 deal with Diztech for services already covered in the Farevic contract. ZACC says these transactions were done without the knowledge or approval of NetOne’s executive committee and board.

Mushanawani’s actions have raised eyebrows, with many questioning how a system earmarked for replacement would need such costly upgrades. The CEO’s fate now hangs in the balance as he faces the Harare Magistrates’ Court.

It seems Mushanawani’s upgrade plans for NetOne’s system were more about upgrading his own bank account. The CEO’s alleged antics have left many wondering if he’s been “upgrading” his expenses instead of the system.

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