Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
BULAWAYO residents and transport operators have distanced themselves from calls for illegal mass protests, saying the city cannot afford a repeat of the destruction and economic losses experienced during the 2019 disturbances.
The Bulawayo Residents Association (Bura) said the city was still bearing the scars of the 2019 unrest, with some businesses yet to recover from the destruction of property, while the Expriccos Taxi Organisation said it would continue operating normally and providing transport services.
Bura chairperson Mr Winos Dube said the association believes dialogue, rather than confrontation, is the most effective way of resolving differences.
“What I must make clear from the outset is that, as residents, especially under the Bulawayo Residents Association (Bura), we have a position that we do not partake in activities that have a confrontational stance against other systems. Our founding values are that whenever there are issues, people need to engage each other and find solutions through dialogue,” he said.
Mr Dube urged residents to remember the impact of the 2019 disturbances on the city.
“I want to draw the attention of the Bulawayo community to the fact that we still have vivid memories of what happened to our city the last time these so-called protests were held. There was massive destruction of property, people’s businesses were seriously affected and some, even to this day, are still reeling from those losses.”
He said Bura would not support actions that could destabilise the city or undermine livelihoods.
“From that experience, we would not be seen entertaining such an event. Those with issues should instead approach the relevant offices with a willingness to sit down, engage in dialogue and find amicable solutions,” he said.
Mr Dube warned that protests and stayaways carry significant economic consequences, particularly for Bulawayo’s large informal sector, where many residents depend on daily trading to earn a living.
“Protests or stayaways have a negative impact on the city’s economy. Most of our people survive through the informal sector, where every minute lost translates into significant financial losses. A confrontational approach is not the best way forward because it has many negative effects on our homes, businesses and industry,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Expriccos Taxi Organisation chairperson Mr Mpikelelo Khumalo said the organisation was unaware of the planned protests and would continue with normal operations.
“As a metered taxi organisation, we have no knowledge of, and do not need to concern ourselves with, what these people are calling for. To us, the day will be just another normal business day and we will continue offering transport services to those who need them,” said Mr Khumalo.
The transport operators said they remained committed to ensuring commuters have uninterrupted access to transport services, adding that maintaining peace and stability was vital for businesses and the city’s continued economic recovery.
