At least 7,000 families many of them long-standing ZANU-PF supporters have been ordered to leave Old Willdale Compound in Mount Hampden with residents accusing Willdale Bricks of using threats, political pressure and police intimidation to force them out.
In a video circulating on social media, Willdale Bricks Chief Executive Officer Nyasha Matonda is heard telling the families that they must vacate the compound by Wednesday morning.
He warns that those who fail to comply will face police action.
“Kindly take note, as you’re aware that we have an eviction order which says you should vacate this area. We are giving you until tomorrow morning or else the police will unleash violence on you,” Matonda said.
He went on to tell the residents that they should “vote for a proper government” accusing their MP, Kudakwashe Mananzva of misleading them by encouraging them to remain on the property.
“From tomorrow, you are going to learn where to put your vote. You should vote for proper leadership,” Matonda added.
Residents insist they have nowhere else to go and are relying on government assurances that no one will be left homeless.
Willdale Bricks recently secured a High Court order allowing it to reclaim the land, which the company once used for clay extraction but now describes as overrun by “illegal brickmakers.”
The firm hopes to sell the Mt Hampden land valued at US$3 million to revive its struggling operations and is considering developing the 123.6-hectare property into housing stands and an industrial park.
Zvimba East MP Kudakwashe Mananzva said he had engaged government ministries in an effort to halt or delay the mass eviction.
“As your MP, I have approached the relevant ministry and they are seized with the matter,” he said. “This caring ZANU-PF-led government is committed to ensuring every affected family is resettled in safe and dignified conditions.”
He urged residents not to panic, saying provincial authorities had already visited the area and that government was working to secure alternative accommodation in line with Vision 2030’s pledge to “leave no one and no place behind.”
Witnesses say the attempted eviction involved Matonda, Willdale’s security officer Mr Mawarire and a convoy of police officers led by Harare Province Deputy Commissioner Masimba, Assistant Disposal Officer Masawi of Harare Suburban, Chief Inspector Chirambiwa of ZRP Marlborough and members of the Police Support Unit.
