MDC-T led council sanctions flee markets demolitions

The Harare City Council has sanctioned the demolition of structures along Robert Mugabe Way opposite Eastgate Mall, to pave way for the construction of a multimillion dollar small to medium enterprise (SME) shopping mall.

City of Harare Spokesperson, Michel Chideme confirmed the development, saying the structures were illegal and the council gave an order to Old Mutual to destroy the properties to pave way for a multimillion dollar modern market.

Old Mutual Managing Director, Ms Marjorie Mayida said her organisation was given an order by the city council to demolish the illegal structures, in line with the city's vision of being a world class city by year 2025.

The tenants however allege that the property owners did not give them notice to vacate the building before the demolitions.

The city of Harare, like all other towns and cities in the country, has in past year seen an increase in illegal structures and businesses.