By: PedroMbewe Andras
Manicaland Rank marshals in Manicaland Province have condemned Mutare City Council’s heavy-handed crackdown on transport operators and are demanding urgent dialogue to resolve the escalating crisis at the city’s ranks.The call comes after violent skirmishes dubbed the “Mahwindi clashes” erupted in Mutare, pitting touts, police, and city officials against each other in a brutal fight over control of workspace. The chaos follows the imposition of a new law that rank marshals describe as unsanctioned, dubious, and designed to sideline them.Speaking to this publication, Cde Henry, Chairperson of Mahwindi 4 Economic Development, accused the local authority of deliberately ignoring the concerns of rank marshals and using force instead of consultation. “We are not asking for favors. We are asking for rational engagement so we can work and serve the public without being treated like criminals,” Cde Henry said. He condemned the council’s refusal to meet with marshals and warned that the approach was fueling tension and lawlessness.Cde Henry also urged all rank marshals to maintain discipline, stating that misconduct by a few was being used by authorities to tarnish the entire sector and justify the crackdown.Reports indicate that over 150 marshals were arrested and many others displaced during a council-led operation in April. Critics allege a conflict of interest, claiming city officials are now pushing to replace the displaced marshals with new associations linked directly to the authorities. Marshals argue this is a clear attempt to seize control of lucrative rank operations and lock out independent operators under the guise of “order”.The marshals are calling on Mutare Local Authority to immediately halt unilateral measures, release detained operators, and enter good-faith negotiations. They warn that without dialogue, the situation will continue to destabilize public transport and harm commuters.“We cannot build a functioning city through arrests and backdoor deals. The only way forward is dialogue, transparency, and respect for the people who keep this sector running,” Cde Henry said.
