Source: Residents demand urgent probe into Mabelreign structures – herald
van Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Residents of Mabelreign have demanded an urgent investigation into the construction of permanent structures at Mabelreign Shopping Centre.
The residents have petitioned the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) over the matter.
In a petition dated April 11, 2026, the residents accused Ward 16 councillor Denford Ngadziore of presiding over the construction of permanent brick-and-mortar structures on land designated as a public car park behind the ZESA offices.
The petition, also copied to the mayor of Harare, Councillor Jacob Mafume, said the land remained officially reserved for parking space, and no lawful change of use had been approved.
“The land remains a car park. No lawful change of use was approved,” read the petition.
The residents further alleged that shop owners at Mabelreign Shopping Centre, who were directly affected stakeholders, were not consulted before the development commenced.
“Residents engaged existing shop owners at Mabelreign Shopping Centre who confirmed that they were not notified of any proposed change of use,” read the petition.
According to the petition, documents submitted to the council reportedly indicated a proposal for a temporary market facility under the SMEs Committee, yet permanent structures were instead erected on the site.
“Despite this, permanent brick-and-mortar structures were constructed on site,” read the petition.
The structures were later demolished after Mayor Mafume ordered the halting of construction works following public outcry from residents and business owners.
Residents said the demolition confirmed that the project was unlawful and raises serious questions over how the development was allowed to proceed.
“The subsequent demolition of the structures confirms that the development was not lawful,” read the petition.
The residents have since given the City of Harare 72 hours to produce all approvals, resolutions and administrative records relating to the project.
They have also called on ZACC to institute investigations within seven days into possible abuse of office, irregular approval processes and any benefits that may have accrued to those involved.
The petition further seeks a broader audit of developments undertaken under Councillor Ngadziore’s oversight to establish whether there is a pattern of alleged irregularities.
The matter comes at a time when concerns were mounting over land use management and compliance with council procedures in Harare’s residential suburbs.
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