Motorists cry foul over CBD clamping

Philemon Jambaya

Harare motorists have expressed disappointment with City Park officials who have of late been harassing them in the Central Business District.

Recently, Council announced that it had reinforced its security to deal with traffic offences, but questions have been raised on why mushika-shika are still visible in the CBD.

“Why are we facing such harassment from these thugs? It’s longer safe to do business in town, not from thieves but from the council officials.

“I predict chaos, soon people will avoid the CBD and prefer the outskirts’ shoddy deals. No sane client will come to your office if there is a 100% chance of being clamped when delayed by just five minutes from your office. Fellow residents when you go into town, beware of the police and council officials not the thieves,” warned another resident.

Prominent businessman, Nigel Chanakira, also made a loud cry after he was clamped in the CBD.

“Clamped in Harare whilst in a meeting after I failed to see the parking attended to pay & I was stuck for a solid 2 hours sorting this out City Parking asked for US$130. The fine is totally disproportionate to the offense. I’m perplexed that we can have such unjust city by-laws,” tweeted Chanakira.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume responded to the tweet.

“We have noted concerns of the public on this issue. We will be calling a Press Conference tomorrow together with City Parking to announce the recommendations we have received from the public. We have to strike a balance between the fines and what people can afford,” responded Mafume.