Mafume warns of Harare security time bomb

Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has raised serious concerns over security lapses at Town House, warning that unauthorised individuals are freely roaming the premises and accessing offices of senior officials. Mafume described the situation as a "ticking time bomb" for criminal activity, highlighting the ease with which suspected land barons and other intruders navigate the city's headquarters.

His warning follows a high-profile land dispute that embroiled the council, including a recent incident in Newlands that led to the arrests of deputy mayor Rosemary Muronda and former Harare South MP Shadreck Mashayamombe. At the time, Mafume was questioned by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission following a complaint from Marvis Java, who alleged she had been sold a non-existent commercial stand in an upscale suburb.

Addressing council officials, Mafume expressed alarm over the lack of access control at Town House. "You will be laughing with them at Town House and you expect us to smile? We do not tolerate such things. Let's deal with access to Town House," he said. He warned that if security lapses are not addressed, the council could soon fall victim to serious crimes, including robbery. "People walk until they get into the town clerk's office, the chamber secretary's office, and the mayor's office while you are standing there. You do not ask what they are looking for, and there is no search. What if they are carrying dangerous weapons? We cannot run an office like that," Mafume added.

He emphasised the need to restore "sanity" to the premises and insisted that only councillors and management should have unrestricted access, while others should wait for formal occasions such as electioneering. Mafume also noted that some individuals arrive at Town House earlier than officials, causing disruptions and interacting with staff.

Meanwhile, tensions are mounting over the council's rollout of smart water meters. During a meeting facilitated by the Community Water Alliance, residents expressed dissatisfaction, accusing the council of misplaced priorities. Goodlife Mudzingwa, national coordinator for the CWA, criticised the city for focusing on billing while nearly 60% of water is lost through non-revenue infrastructure. The project, he noted, is funded by a Chinese loan. Mudzingwa urged residents to pursue grievances through legal channels, saying, "For example, we can help you sue Harare City Council."