KEY POINTS
- Chamisa calls for evidence to be presented before the inquiry.
- Land barons and councillors face allegations of corrupt settlement regularisation.
- Chamisa demands that President Mnangagwa also appear before the Commission.
Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has challenged Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to appear before the Harare Commission of Inquiry into the city’s land regularisation process.
Speaking during his appearance before the Commission on Monday, Chamisa dismissed claims linking him to corruption in Harare’s land allocation.
The inquiry, led by retired Justice Cheda, is investigating operations at Harare City Council since 2017. Chamisa’s name was drawn into the controversy by CCC councillor Blessing Duma, who alleged that Chamisa had directed councilors to regularise settlements.
Chamisa firmly denied the claims, maintaining that he never interfered with council operations as the leader of CCC. Addressing the evidence leader Thabani Mpofu, he stated, “I did hear [the claims]. It is not true… I hope that the Commission is also going to tell [President Mnangagwa] to come.”
Chamisa further asserted that he never addressed council caucuses, describing himself as a “man of God” and insisting that he had no role in issuing directives to councillors. He called on the Commission to demand evidence from those making the accusations.
Land regularisation raises concerns about illegal settlements
The issue of land regularisation in Harare has become a source of controversy, with illegal settlements on the rise. Several councillors have been accused of facilitating these settlements through questionable means. Land barons have been accused of collaborating with councillors to allocate and formalise land settlements.
According to New Zimbabwe, Chamisa expressed his concerns about the demolition of homes, which he said is contrary to the rule of law. He emphasized that it is unjust for people’s homes to be demolished after they had been allowed to build them in the first place.
He told the inquiry, “I had difficulties appreciating and understanding why a whole council would destroy people’s houses when they, in the first instance, had allowed people to construct those houses.”
Chamisa’s position reflects his broader commitment to the rule of law and property rights. He criticized the destruction of people’s homes, arguing that it was an attack on fundamental human rights.
His comments are likely to resonate with many Zimbabweans who have faced forced evictions and the loss of their homes.
Chamisa insists on due process, urges fair treatment for all
Chamisa’s testimony before the Harare Commission of Inquiry underscored his belief in transparency, justice, and the protection of citizens’ property rights.
He reiterated his support for the rule of law and the right of individuals to maintain their property without fear of unlawful eviction.
Chamisa also highlighted the need for accountability from all involved, including President Mnangagwa. By calling for Mnangagwa’s appearance before the commission, Chamisa framed his stance as one that promotes fairness and equality under the law.
As the Commission of Inquiry continues its investigation, pressure may mount on other political figures to offer explanations for their roles in Harare’s land allocation issues. Chamisa’s call for Mnangagwa’s appearance could intensify public interest in the inquiry’s outcome.
