By Correspondent
The Roman Catholic Church has distanced itself from the chaos around ownership of St Martins land along Airport Road.
The land has become the subject of controversy after 320 residents were given eviction notices by Harare City Council.
However, the residents have cried foul as they allege that the same Council sold them the land.
They took the case to Court where a judgement by Justice Zhou was delivered to their benefit.
Meanwhile, the residents also approached the ZCBC who are alleged to be the rightful owners of the land.
They sought to get the Church’s position on the matter of the land.
However, in a letter the ZCBC revealed that they were not involved.
“Greetings from the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference Secretariat.
“I write to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 22nd September 2025 and the concerns raised.
“As the Church we have not shown interest and neither have we been offered the land within that area.
“We therefore would appeal to you to engage the concerned authorities namely: the Government of Zimbabwe and the Harare City Council.
Centre of Battle
Harare sent out eviction notices last month alleging that the residents were carrying out unauthorized developments.
“The City of Harare has noted with grave concern that you are undertaking unauthorized developments on the above-mentioned property.
“(This is) in contravention of the City of Harare Planning By-Laws and other applicable statutory provisions.
“You are hereby directed to cease all ongoing development activities and to restore the property to its original condition.
“Failure to comply with this directive will result in the City of Harare exercising its statutory’ powers to enforce compliance,” Acting Director of Planning Samuel Nyabezi wrote.
Residents Position
St Martins residents have expressed shock at the Council’s moves.
They allege that they were sold the land by the Council.
The residents allege that there has been name-dropping with VP Chiwenga alleged to be backing the takeover of the land by the Roman Catholic Church.
The Chairman of the St Martins residents, David Jenje said many residents were already occupying their stands.
“People have already started building, and contractors are working on sewer and water connections.
“The Pay Scheme holds documented rights and interests in this land, supported by official records held by the City of Harare.
“(These) include District Officer, the Housing Director’s Office and other relevant authorities.
“These records include offer letters and agreements of sale.
“Members have also paid the full intrinsic value of the land,” they said.
Jenje said they had also engaged different contractors for developmental work.
“Many beneficiaries have commenced development, with several already occupying their homes.
“Contracts have been entered into with contractors for road, sewer and water reticulation.
“Materials have been delivered to the site, all with the full knowledge and consent of the City of Harare.
“Some of the development work is already underway, and the stands have been surveyed by the City of Harare,” he added.
However, the letter by the ZCBC has created more uncertainty as to the actual objective of the operation to remove the residents.
