Staff writer
The Harare Residents Trust (HRT) has castigated authorities for persecuting and harassing vendors ‘who are trying to earn a living’ during this economic turmoil period.
Said HRT in a statement:
“Create enough jobs to accommodate most of the vendors. The streets will be empty in no time.
When council fights against poor people trying to live peaceful lives, scattering poor people’s wares is an insult to Hunhu /Ubuntu which defines Zimbabwean culture. Violence against powerless people should be condemned without restraint. Vendors cannot organised without their input. Public policy is a shared responsibility.”
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has also criticised the government’s order to remove illegal vendors within 48 hours, calling it unfair to the many people who rely on street vending for survival due to the country’s struggling economy.
The government has ordered all local authorities to clear vendors operating in undesignated areas within 48 hours, citing public health risks and disruptions to legal businesses.
Announcing the directive, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the move is aimed at restoring order in cities and towns, as illegal vending has become a challenge for both health and business operations.He added that individuals who litter instead of using designated bins will face heavy penalties.