Coltart decries lack of arrest powers for Municipal police

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has raised concerns over the city's inability to effectively enforce municipal by-laws due to the limited powers of municipal police, particularly their lack of authority to arrest offenders.

Coltart told Southern Eye that the absence of regular support from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has left the city vulnerable to increasing violations of municipal regulations, including a surge in illegal vending activities.

"The police are not always available. This affects enforcement of all by-laws by our municipal police, including illegal vending," Coltart said.

He warned that the unchecked growth of night vending was compromising city cleanliness and posing public health risks.

However, Ward 28 Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu urged a more balanced and inclusive approach to by-law enforcement. He called on the city to develop clearer policies that would ensure vendors operate in designated safe areas equipped with proper sanitation facilities.

"Effective enforcement of by-laws requires a nuanced approach that balances regulation with support for micro, small, and medium enterprises, which are crucial for economic growth and job creation," Ndlovu said.

He added that enforcement bodies might need to adapt to 24-hour operations but emphasised that the goal should be to create an enabling environment for vendors rather than implementing outright crackdowns.

"By doing so, we can promote a thriving informal sector while maintaining order and safety in our city."

Ndlovu noted that the surge in night vending reflected a growing informal economy and a "new normal" in response to the country's tough economic conditions.

The Bulawayo City Council has been grappling with balancing urban order and public health concerns against the economic realities facing many of its residents. The debate highlights broader tensions between regulation and economic survival in Zimbabwe's urban centres.