Staff Reporter

Marondera residents are up in arms with their Town Council, for allegedly extorting motorists through exorbitant clamping and parking fees.

The community contends that these excessive charges are unfair and burdensome, prompting widespread frustration and calls for immediate reform.

Director of the Marondera Residents Open Forum (MAROF), Tapiwa Chengeta has officially written to council, expressing deep concerns about the situation.

 In his letter, Chengeta highlighted the residents’ concern over the continued corrupt practices by Marondera Council.  

"We are extremely concerned about the negative publicity generated by the clamping operations. This bad reputation could significantly hinder the town's growth and development,” said Chengeta.

A representative of the Marondera Urban Business Association, Emmanuel Danha, criticized the Municipality for turning car clamping into a lucrative business.

"These ridiculously high fines are counterproductive. It's unreasonable for parking fines to exceed national penalties. A US$31 fine for parking in an undesignated area is simply excessive," Danha stated.

Danha further highlighted that many motorists now avoid stopping in Marondera altogether to evade the risk of being clamped.

"The town is gaining a reputation as a 'no stopping zone' due to the presence of ever-ready, yet ununiformed parking marshals. These unsupervised marshals should be regulated," said Danha.

Residents from Dombotombo also pointed out a stark inconsistency in enforcement, noting that kombis and other illegal public transport vehicles operate with apparent immunity, often bribing traffic enforcement officers to flout laws.

"Kombis and mushika-shikas defy traffic laws with impunity, seemingly with the consent of municipal traffic marshals," a resident observed.

A businessman in Marondera highlighted that such punitive measures not only damage the town's image but also discourage economic activity.

“Businesses in the area are now experiencing a decline in customers as traveling motorists opt to bypass Marondera to avoid the hassle of clamping. By addressing these concerns, the council has an opportunity to rebuild trust with residents, improve the town's image, and foster a more business-friendly environment,” said Nehosho.

Despite multiple attempts to seek a response from Marondera Mayor Chengetayi Murowa, no comment was forthcoming.