By Naledi Dube
Attorney General Virginia Mabhiza has raised concern over the increase of corruption in land distribution by some local authorities in the country.
Speaking during the official opening of this year’s Masvingo Provincial Show on Saturday, Attorney General Mabhiza said urban development is an essential facet of the nation’s progress hence must be conducted in an orderly manner and strictly within the jurisdiction of the law.
Attorney General Mabhiza said there is a worrying trend in urban areas regarding the allocation of urban land by some local authorities.
“Corruption in land allocation is on the increase, I warn those who attempt to circumvent the law that they will be faced with stringed consequences from the law enforcement agencies”
Attorney General Mabhiza urged those seeking land to approach the relevant authorities to make sure that they are using proper channels.
“It has been brought to my attention that exorbitant waiting list fees that are imposed by certain local authorities can push unsuspecting home seekers into the hands of manipulative land barons”.
“This practice must be addressed as it undermines our collective effort for equitably and transparency land distribution. We must work together foster a fair lawful framework for land development that benefits all Zimbabweans”