Davies Hall now out of bounds. . . As Zanu-PF ups security ahead of polls

Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Correspondent
ZANU-PF Bulawayo province has banned party members from holding unsanctioned meetings at the party’s provincial headquarters – Davies Hall.

Bulawayo provincial chairman Cde Dennis Ndlovu said the political landscape was becoming tense ahead of elections next year hence the need to tighten security at the offices.

He said those intending to hold a meeting at Davies Hall should first seek clearance.

“That is our headquarters, we can’t just allow people to use it. We had relaxed so that members could have their meetings but it’s our headquarters and we are heading towards elections so we can’t continue letting people use the offices for whatever reason,” Cde Ndlovu said.

He said the party wants to guard against members who would use the offices to further their agendas.

“The fact that people were coming to hold their meetings without the party’s knowledge is not good… anything can happen there. And the best way is to control and know who is in the offices at a particular time. But members can continue holding their meetings provided they are cleared to do so,” said Cde Ndlovu.

He did not single out individuals and groups who have been barred from illegally using Davies Hall.

Previously, unauthorised meetings were being held at Davies Hall with rival groups congregating to plot against each other.

In March, anti-riot police and the Dog Section had to be called to restore order as scores of Zanu-PF Youth League members in Bulawayo demonstrated against the provincial leadership accusing it of being corrupt.

It later turned out that the demonstrations were illegal resulting in the party suspending those who staged the protests.

Cde Ndlovu said it was against the spirit of unity for members to be demonstrating against each other, calling on the province to forge as a united front ahead of next year’s elections.

“If you see someone demonstrating against the party at its offices, it shows that the demonstration will be unknown. I will also want to urge the party’s members to be united as we head for next year’s elections where we want to win,” he said.

@nqotshili