Mashamhanda Eviction from US$1.5 Million Mansion E...

Mashamhanda Eviction from US$1.5 Million Mansion Effected

Zim Now Writer

Top businessman, Tendai Mashamhanda faces eviction from his US$1.5 million mansion after losing his legal battle in the Supreme Court.

The court upheld a lower court ruling that the property was purchased fraudulently, and Mashamhanda must vacate the premises.

The Sheriff of Zimbabwe has scheduled the eviction to take place on February 29, leaving Mashamhanda facing the prospect of losing his home.

Mashamhanda, son of prominent businessman Alex Mashamhanda, bought the house for US$230 000 from lawyer Pihwai Chiutsi. He claimed extensive renovations increased its value to over US$1.5 million. However, the High Court ruled in November 2023 that the sale was fraudulent and ordered his eviction.

Mashamhanda appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, arguing that the eviction violated his constitutional rights. However, Justice Chinembiri Bhunu dismissed the appeal, stating Mashamhanda was illegally occupying the property.

Justice Bhunu emphasised the length of Mashamhanda’s “unlawful and mala fide occupation” of the property, highlighting the severity of the situation. He further criticised Mashamhanda's conduct as “manifestly unjust and unconscionable” due to the five-year period he occupied the property without the rightful owner’s consent.

Mashamhanda responded by writing letters, demanding the resignation of three judges, including Deputy Chief Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza, citing allegations of corruption and ethical violations.