HARARE - A school head has been arraigned before the courts on charges of criminal abuse of office after she allegedly collected money from a parent in exchange for a Grade One place.

Stella Dlakama, 61, was allegedly approached on December 17 last year by Anderson Matibhiri and his friend Denford Mudimu, who were looking for a Grade One place for Matibhiri’s daughter.

According to state papers, the two agreed that Matibhiri’s child would take the place of Mudimu’s daughter, who was transferring to another school.

It is alleged that Matibhiri paid Mudimu some money as refund for the school fees he had paid for his daughter. Dlakama allegedly agreed to Matibhiri and Mudimu’s arrangement.

Matibhiri was asked to fill in admission forms before paying a fee of $120.

Dlakama, according to state papers, did not issue a receipt for the money, arguing she would do so after Matibhiri had provided his proof of residence and a photocopy of his daughter’s birth certificate.

Matibhiri went to the school last Wednesday and Dlakama asked him to pay a further $50.

Dlakama refused and demanded a refund of the money that he had paid.

According to state papers, Dlakama turned the tables and declined ever receiving any money from Matibhiri, who reported the matter to the police.

The head was remanded out of custody to January 21. - Tendai Kamhungira