WATCH: CCC and Zanu PF Supporters Clash in Dramatic Harare Townhouse Council Swearing-In Ceremony
A council swearing-in ceremony at Harare Townhouse turned chaotic as supporters of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Zanu PF engaged in a heated verbal clash. The incident occurred when CCC supporters arrived early to celebrate their newly elected councillors, only to be confronted by Zanu PF supporters who arrived later in a combi.
Former Mayor Mafume Makes Appearance
Former Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume was among the attendees at the ceremony today. Mafume took up the position after his predecessor, was recalled amidst allegations of corruption that have yet to be substantiated.
During the ceremony, Councillor Denford Ngadziore expressed concern over the failure to elect a Mayor in accordance with the constitution. Ngadziore argued that the failure to hold the mayoral election today amounted to a violation of the law.
Dhama’s Unconventional Oath-Taking
Amid the proceedings, Simbarashe Chanachimwe, popularly known as Dhama, the newly elected Councillor for Mbare ward 3, refused to take the oath of office while holding a Bible. Dhama concluded his oath with the words “So help me God,” evoking laughter from his colleagues in the chamber.
ALSO READ: Controversial Swearing-In: Dhama Shocks Crowd by Refusing Bible During Oath-Taking
Earlier this year, Dhama faced charges of unlawful drug possession, leading to his arrest and subsequent court appearance. Despite the gravity of the charges, Dhama was granted bail in the amount of ZWL50,000 by magistrate Rangarirai Gakanje. This decision drew criticism from those who perceived it as a miscarriage of justice, reported Nehanda Radio.
Comparisons to Job Sikhala’s Detention
The controversial bail decision for Dhama prompted comparisons to the prolonged detention of CCC member Job Sikhala, who has been held in prison for over 400 days without a sentence.
ALSO READ: Students who protested for Sikhala’s freedom denied bail
Many have criticized the perceived disparity in treatment between the two cases.
Conclusion
As the political landscape in Harare remains tense, the city’s residents and observers eagerly await the resolution of these ongoing disputes.
#UPDATE
🔴@ZANUPF_Official and @CCCZimbabwe supporters in verbal clash at #Harare Townhouse where a council swearing-in ceremony is taking place. Both sides chant provocative slogans. pic.twitter.com/iiZoigd3hl— NewsDay Zimbabwe (@NewsDayZimbabwe) September 7, 2023