BY SAMUEL NJINGA IN MASVINGO
A simmering land boundary dispute between two ward councillors in Masvingo urban has escalated into a full-blown conflict, threatening to divide the local community. The dispute, which involves the ruling ZANU PF Councillor, Sengerayi Manyanga of Ward 10 and opposition party`s Citizens Coalition for Change Councillor, Bernard Muchokwa of Ward 9, centers around a controversial boundary demarcation at Caravan Park that has left both parties at odds.
The dispute came to surface during a meeting that was convened by the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists in the ancient city recently to deliberate on issues to do with corruption and noise pollution. Residents raised concern over noise that was emanating from Caravan Park during the night when revelers would be enjoying themselves while they (residents) would be fast asleep. Muchokwa immediately responded that there was a need for completely shutting down Caravan Park. Muchokwa`s response generated turmoil and pandemonium as the two clashed as Councillor Manyanga accused Councillor Muchokwa of encroaching on land that falls within the jurisdiction of Ward 10 that belongs to him.
“The boundary between Ward 9 and Ward 10 has always been very clear. Councillor Muchokwa is trying to grab over land that belongs to my ward without proper consultation or legal backing. This is unacceptable. Leave that issue for me,” Councillor Manyanga fired back. He further alleged that Muchokwa’s actions were being motivated by the potential financial gains from the owner of the bar, which is located close to the leafy suburb of Rhodene.
On the other hand, Councillor Muchokwa dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically aggravated. He argued that the boundary dispute is as a result of the recent voter delimitation exercise that was done by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission last year as the country was heading towards the harmonized 2023 elections.
“I have always followed the proper procedures and consulted with the relevant authorities. The accusations against me are nothing more than a smear campaign aimed at tarnishing my reputation as a councillor. Caravan Park falls within the jurisdiction of Ward 9, which is my ward,” Councillor Muchokwa stated in his defense. In a follow up interview with AB Communications News Network, both Manyanga and Muchokwa fired back at each other and further expressed concern that the dispute could inflame tensions between residents of their wards, who have been historically coexisting peacefully.
Both the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and the City Of Masvingo have since been drawn into the dispute, with both Councillors demanding an urgent review of the boundary maps to resolve the issue.
Meanwhile the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission District Elections Officer for Masvingo, Getrude Murumbi, confirmed that Caravan Park is in Ward 10.
“The integrity of our boundary demarcations is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring fair representation as far as registered voters are concerned. This is the major reason as to why everything was modified. Caravan Park now falls under Ward 10. It is no longer the river that demarcates the 2 wards,” said Murumbi.
As the dispute continues to unfold, residents of both wards have expressed their frustration with the situation. Many are concerned that the ongoing wrangle could delay the much-needed development projects in the area and further strain relations between the two communities.