Demolition Law Struck Off | Namatai Responds to Nyemba’s Jibe

Demolition Law Struck Off | Namatai Responds to Nyemba's Jibe

A key law used by councils to demolish properties has been struck down by the High Court.

High Court judge, Never Katiyo said a key provision of the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act was archaic and unconstitutional.

The judge criticised the local authorities for relying on these outdated provisions to justify the demolition of homes and the displacement of residents.

Justice Katiyo emphasised the importance of due process and procedural safeguards in eviction cases. He ruled that local authorities must follow the proper legal procedures, including obtaining court orders before demolishing properties.

The court also highlighted the need for local authorities to be more proactive in preventing illegal construction, rather than resorting to demolition as a last resort.

In response to the court’s ruling, the Government has been given 12 months to amend the legislation to bring it into compliance with the Constitution.

Meanwhile…

Rights activist Namatai Kwekweza who was abducted at the Robert Mugabe airport in August has come out guns blazing after a Justice  Ministry official dismissed Namatai's abduction story at a public forum.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Namatai said:

“The Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Justice Mrs Vimbai Nyemba speaking in Banjul with enthusiasm. Very disappointing to see that this is the person she has become.

Demolition Law Struck Off | Namatai Responds to Nyemba's Jibe

“Unless she was present at the scene of the abduction or if she has spoken to our abductors and they have provided contrary testimony of what happened (to which she has an obligation to tell us who they are and what they said in their contrary testimonies) then she has no business going to international platforms and casting aspersions. 

“There is only one crocodile in Zimbabwe and it sure isn't me. If they have contrary testimony from our abductors, we would really appreciate they acknowledge to the fact and also tell us who the people are. 

“Further for a permanent secretary in the ministry of justice to utter such statements in a matter that is still before the courts, betrays a level bias in a ministry that should present itself as impartial.

“Why has she automatically taken to defend our abductors, what is her interest, and further what is the interest of the Ministry of Justice in the matter?

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“I am happy that she has spoken to an international audience for all to see the kinds of things Zimbabweans have to deal with. When we tell people these are the kinds of attitudes our leaders have, they think we are being harsh. I think this helps us all to see for ourselves.”