Zapu faces eviction over debt

A BULAWAYO company has filed summons at the High Court seeking the eviction of the Dumiso Dabengwa-led opposition, Zapu, from its property over $10 750 rental arrears.

Main Investment and Construction (Pvt) Limited filed its summons on November 3 demanding payment of the outstanding amount and an order compelling Zapu to move out of the rented property along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Street in Bulawayo.

"Plaintiff's claim, as against defendant, is for an order evicting defendants and all those claiming occupation through them from plaintiff's premises located on number 15 JM Nkomo Street and Connaught Avenue in Bulawayo," read part of the summons.

"Despite demand, the defendant has refused or failed to vacate the property."

The company demanded $10 750, which Zapu owes in rentals and interests of $1 000 calculated at 30% per month from March 2016 to July 2016. It also claimed damages at the rate of $1 000 per month from July 2016 to date of ejection.

The company gave the opposition party 10 days to enter an appearance to defend the claim.

The company's declaration of the claim, through Mathonsi Law Chambers, states that the party entered into a written lease agreement with it for the occupation and use of the property.

"The said agreement expired on February 29, 2016, of which notice to vacate was given to the defendant," part of the declaration reads.

"Despite the repeated demand, the defendant has refused or neglected to vacate plaintiff's premises, notwithstanding the expiration. On expiry of the written notice, the defendant failed to vacate the premises and has remained in occupation ever since. They have also failed to pay rentals."

The declaration further stated that the company is entitled to interest at a rate of 30% per month on any rentals in terms of the lease agreement after 21 days of its due date.

The company said it has since cancelled the lease agreement with Zapu, but the party has remained defiant.

Zapu is yet to respond to the summons.