Political Reporter

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Hatfield Ward 22 Councillor Clemence Maimba was involved in a violent altercation yesterday with a Kombi crew over a bus fare dispute.

The incident, which took place after Maimba refused to pay the standard US$1 fare, escalated to a physical confrontation, leaving several parties injured.

According to a source, the incident began when Councillor Maimba boarded a kombi at the Charge Office bus terminus in Harare CBD, heading to Hatfield.

When asked to pay the fare, Maimba reportedly claimed that, as a councillor, he was exempted from such charges.

"He simply brushed off the conductor's request, insisting that his status as a councillor absolved him from paying," the source said.

According to the source, the situation intensified as the kombi approached Glamis Road, Maimba's destination.

“Upon his refusal to pay, the conductor, believing Maimba to be jesting initially, demanded the fare. This led to a heated exchange, with Maimba insisting on disembarking without payment. The driver, in response, chose to continue driving, a decision that triggered Maimba's aggression,” said the source.

The same source reported that Maimba started to assault the conductor while the kombi was in motion.

"Maimba lost his temper and started assaulting the conductor. Things took a more dangerous turn when he pulled out a knife, threatening to harm everyone on board," the source recounted.

The source also informed that the driver eventually halted the kombi at the intersection of Twentydales Road and Kilwinning Road, amid the escalating violence.

Maimba's outburst continued, leading to a physical fight involving the conductor, the driver, and, eventually, other passengers.

"It was chaos. Maimba was acting like a possessed lion, hurling obscenities and throwing punches," the source added.

The source added that in the melee that ensued, Maimba, the conductor, and the driver all sustained injuries.

"Passengers had to restrain Maimba. It was a complete pandemonium,” added the source.

Source pointed out that in a bid to justify his conduct, Maimba later claimed that the altercation stemmed from his role as a CCC councillor. However, this explanation did little to quell the outrage among those involved and the bystanders.

At the time of reporting, it remains unclear whether the incident has been formally reported to the police.

However, the shocking event raises serious questions about the conduct of public officials and respect for basic civic responsibilities.