Councillor sucked into church crusade showdown

City of Harare Ward 16 councillor Denford Ngadziore has found himself at the centre of a dispute between residents of Ashdown Park and Bloomingdale and the organisers of Pastor Benny Hinn's upcoming healing crusade, scheduled for October 10.

The Ashdown Park Residents and Ratepayers Association recently submitted a petition opposing the event, citing environmental, security and health concerns. However, Ngadziore said relevant authorities, including the police, Harare City Council and the Environmental Management Agency (Ema), had already endorsed the gathering under strict conditions.

"While some residents may pursue further actions to stop the event, this is their democratic right as long as it is exercised lawfully," Ngadziore said in a statement. He added that instead of focusing solely on the crusade, residents should also direct their efforts toward addressing pressing community challenges such as drug and substance abuse and theft.

Ngadziore stressed that the city had granted a three-day temporary permit for the event, in line with the Urban Councils Act and other statutes regulating public gatherings on undeveloped open spaces. He said the permit was subject to strict compliance conditions, and any violations would attract enforcement action from both council and government.

He further noted that the crusade had received backing from the tourism and hospitality industry, which views the gathering as an opportunity to promote local tourism.

"As councillor and as a Christian, I find it difficult to block lawful church gatherings. My duty is to ensure order, compliance and balance of rights. The Constitution guarantees both freedom of worship and freedom of assembly, which must be respected alongside the rights of residents and property owners," he said.

Addressing residents' concerns, Ngadziore outlined special measures designed to minimise disruptions. Additional parking will be provided at Sharks Swimming Pool Football Ground in Mabelreign, Ashdown Park ZRP Dog Section grounds and the National Sports Stadium. Shuttle buses will also be arranged by organisers.

Law enforcement presence will be bolstered, with ZRP Harare District deploying officers supported by Harare Municipal Police, private security firms and church ushers. Ema has ordered the use of artificial turf to suppress dust and prevent land degradation, while special traffic arrangements will be communicated to residents along Rosedene Drive.

Ngadziore also highlighted community benefits tied to the event, including the church's efforts in clearing dumpsites, repairing burst pipes, unblocking drainage systems and committing to replace a problematic underground water pipe in Bloomingdale. He further revealed plans to approach Old Mutual, the landowner, to discuss converting the wetland site into a future multi-purpose community centre.

"Beyond its spiritual significance, Pastor Benny Hinn's visit is expected to boost tourism and create temporary business opportunities in our community. Residents are encouraged to explore ways of marketing Ashdown Park and Bloomingdale positively during this period," he said.

The healing crusade is expected to attract more than 100,000 attendees from across Zimbabwe and the region.