News / National
Chamisa sues City of Harare for US$31,830 over assault by Municipal police
28 Jan 2025 at 07:02hrs | Views
A Harare vendor, James Chamisa, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Harare, demanding US$31,830 in damages after he sustained serious injuries allegedly inflicted by Municipal Police during an assault in 2018. Chamisa, represented by Kudzayi Kadzere from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, claims the attack resulted in fractured ribs and other severe injuries.
Court documents reveal that on October 4, 2018, around 2 PM, Chamisa was reportedly assaulted by Municipal Police officers at First Street Mall in Harare. The officers, allegedly acting as part of a city operation to remove vendors and touts, beat him with batons, fists, booted feet, and palms while hurling insults at him about his political affiliations. The incident unfolded in full view of the public.
Chamisa claims the attack caused extensive injuries, including fractured ribs, a fractured right forearm, lacerations to his lower lip, and multiple bruises and abrasions across his body. He further submitted that the assault left him with psychological trauma, including shock, depression, difficulty concentrating, hallucinations, and physical challenges such as fatigue and difficulty walking.
Chamisa stated that he incurred significant medical expenses for hospitalisation, X-rays, medication, and ointments. He is seeking US$1,830 for medical expenses, US$20,000 for shock, pain, and suffering, and US$10,000 for contumelia (injury to dignity).
In his submission, Chamisa argued that the Municipal Police officers were acting within the scope of their duties as employees of the City of Harare and prayed for the court to declare their conduct unlawful. He is also seeking an order compelling the City of Harare to pay damages, including interest and legal costs.
The City of Harare has reportedly refused to settle the claim, prompting Chamisa to approach the High Court. The case is scheduled to be heard today before High Court Judge President Justice Mary Zimba-Dube.
Court documents reveal that on October 4, 2018, around 2 PM, Chamisa was reportedly assaulted by Municipal Police officers at First Street Mall in Harare. The officers, allegedly acting as part of a city operation to remove vendors and touts, beat him with batons, fists, booted feet, and palms while hurling insults at him about his political affiliations. The incident unfolded in full view of the public.
Chamisa claims the attack caused extensive injuries, including fractured ribs, a fractured right forearm, lacerations to his lower lip, and multiple bruises and abrasions across his body. He further submitted that the assault left him with psychological trauma, including shock, depression, difficulty concentrating, hallucinations, and physical challenges such as fatigue and difficulty walking.
In his submission, Chamisa argued that the Municipal Police officers were acting within the scope of their duties as employees of the City of Harare and prayed for the court to declare their conduct unlawful. He is also seeking an order compelling the City of Harare to pay damages, including interest and legal costs.
The City of Harare has reportedly refused to settle the claim, prompting Chamisa to approach the High Court. The case is scheduled to be heard today before High Court Judge President Justice Mary Zimba-Dube.
Source - newsday
