By Fanuel James
Ninety-six property owners in Harare’s Ashdown Park Extension face eviction and possible demolition of their homes amid a dispute over the ownership of the land, Ward 16 councillor Denford Ngadziore says.
Ngadziore said 10 homeowners had been evicted by Friday, with the process entering its second day.
“The land was originally a farm owned by Mr Sibindi, who sold it to Hermish Katsande, and later to Denford Katsande,” Ngadziore said in a statement.
He said Lawson Properties was engaged as the private developer through a court order and later contracted Hesey Construction to service the area.
The dispute has left homeowners questioning how they came to face eviction after purchasing stands from parties operating under the same court order.
“Of serious concern is that some owners who purchased their stands from parties operating under the same court order have received eviction orders,” Ngadziore said.
Most affected residents reportedly paid about US$25,000 for their stands.
The houses now facing demolition are estimated to be worth between US$180,000 and US$200,000.
Ngadziore has since called for an investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Judicial Service Commission on how the dispute arose and where responsibility lies.
He also questioned why no arrests had been made among those involved in selling the stands.
“As of today, 10 property owners have been evicted, with the process entering its second day,” he said.
Ngadziore said he had spoken to some of the affected families, with some now facing homelessness.
He said he had approached the City of Harare’s housing department to explore temporary accommodation in council houses or flats.
“I am also appealing to nearby residents with available space, including unfinished houses, to consider temporarily accommodating affected families,” he said.
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