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Govt Issues Stern Warning Over Zanu-PF Land Scams

By Staff Reporter

The government has issued a strong warning to individuals linked to the ruling Zanu-PF party, accusing them of illegally selling designated land, including crucial areas intended for the expansion of the airport.

Tafadzwa Muguti, the Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution, highlighted that some land barons are falsely claiming support from top government figures, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice Presidents Kembo Mohadi and Constantino Chiwenga. Addressing the media on Wednesday, Muguti revealed that as of last month, over 140 properties in Harare had been illegally occupied, with some of them located within zones earmarked for the expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (RGM).

“The President and the government will not stand idly by while individuals use the names of our leaders and the ruling party to enrich themselves,” Muguti stated. “We’ve noticed that these same individuals have now targeted the yellow and red zones of the airport. It doesn’t matter who you are, whether you’re in the party or government, if you’re involved in criminal activities under the guise of authority, we’ll act swiftly and decisively.”

Muguti also referred to the actions of former President Robert Mugabe, who in 2015 ordered the demolition of houses constructed by the Nyikavanhu Housing Co-operative near the airport, calling them not only unsightly but a major threat to the airport’s development. The land in question had been reserved for expansion, and the settlement along Airport Road was declared illegal.

The government official further warned that certain powerful figures were using official-looking Zanu-PF letters to seize land and solicit bribes from unsuspecting businesses and individuals. He stressed that those abusing their positions, including those issuing fake government documents, would soon be targeted.

“This practice of land grabbing under the pretense of government support must stop,” Muguti said. “We are aware of those behind it, and we’re watching them closely. The Presidential Title Deeds Programme will not legitimize criminals.”

He urged land barons and rogue estate agents to follow proper legal procedures when accessing or selling land. “The law is the law—no one is above it,” Muguti declared. “If a demolition order is issued by the High Court, it will be enforced, and those involved will face consequences. Land is not for sale like candy at the side of the road.”

Muguti concluded by reiterating that the government would not tolerate such illegal activity under the second republic. “We do not endorse criminals,” he said. “Selling land and seeking government regularization will not happen. The law will prevail.”

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