Tafadzwa Muguti, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, has issued a stark warning against Zanu PF land barons. During a feedback meeting in Mutare, Muguti emphasized the government’s commitment to ending the unlawful distribution of land, specifically citing the misuse of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s name in such activities. This crackdown comes on the heels of the suspension of five Zanu PF Mutare District Coordination Committee members involved in illegal land parcelling.
Muguti’s visit to Mutare was not without purpose; it signified a serious governmental effort to restore order and legality in land distribution. “The President does not condone lawlessness or support land barons. We aim to ensure all land and property allocations come with proper documentation, regardless of one’s party position or social status,” Muguti stated, reinforcing the notion that no one is above the law.
The situation in Gimboki, where homeseekers were allocated land meant for public amenities like schools and clinics, was highlighted as a prime example of the illegal practices being targeted. Muguti made it clear that those involved in such corruption will face the full force of the law.
Echoing Muguti’s sentiments, Zanu PF Manicaland province chairperson Tawanda Mukodza called on party members to adhere to legal procedures for land allocation. The warning is clear: deviating from the law will have serious consequences. The party aims to distance itself from unauthorized actions and meetings that go against its principles and the government’s directives.
This crackdown is supported by several high-profile officials, including Manicaland provincial affairs minister Misheck Mugadza and acting Mutare town clerk Blessing Chafesuka, highlighting a unified approach to addressing the issue. The Zimbabwean government’s stance is a clear message against corruption and illegal land allocation. By emphasizing legal procedures and the consequences of unlawful actions, the government aims to instil a sense of order and legality in land distribution, ensuring that public land is used for the intended purposes and benefits the community at large.