VICTORIA FALLS RESIDENTS EXPRESS CONCERNS AT GENERAL FEEDBACK MEETING

A general feedback meeting turned into a passionate outcry for change as hundreds of Victoria Falls residents gathered at the Community Hall in Chinotimba yesterday. The meeting, invited by the Civic Consortium, aimed to discuss matters of interest to the community, but quickly escalated into a fiery debate about corruption, accountability, and the future of the town.

One of the primary concerns raised by residents was the delay in allocating residential stands, despite many having paid for them. The crowd erupted in anger as residents shared their personal stories of waiting for years, only to be met with silence and inaction from the local authorities.

“We are tired of being on the waiting list!” exclaimed one resident. “We have paid our money, but we haven’t received our stands. We demand refunds!”

The recent suspension of town clerk Ronnie Dube due to corruption allegations was another hot topic of discussion. While some residents welcomed the move, others expressed concern about the potential for Dube’s return to office.

The Ministry of Local Governance’s statement ordering Dube’s return sparked outrage among residents, with some threatening to take drastic action. “We won’t let him come back!” shouted one resident. “We will riot if necessary!”

Resident Mr. Mariridza emphasized that councillors should not participate in full council meetings if it means allowing Dube to return. “We can’t let corruption win,” he said. “We need to stand up for what’s right.”

With Dube’s term ending in February 2025, some residents suggested advertising for a new town clerk. The idea was met with enthusiasm from the crowd, who see it as an opportunity for fresh leadership and a chance to rebuild trust in the local authorities.

Vice Chairman of the Hwange District Residents Association, Mr. Donnie Mwembe, said Councillors will not be part of the full council meeting because as residents they will engage in a peaceful demonstration against Dube’s return. He cited the disregard for residents’ concerns and views. “We demand to be heard and to have our concerns taken seriously” he said

Mwembe encouraged residents to participate in meetings that affect them, emphasizing that the community is ultimately impacted by the decisions made. “We need to stand together and fight for our rights,” he urged.

As the meeting drew to a close, one thing was clear that residents of Victoria Falls will no longer be silenced. They demand change, accountability, and transparency from their local authorities. The question is, will their voices be heard? Only time will tell.

By Natalie Muzore