TTI marshals’ inhumane and shameful behaviour should not be tolerated

IS TTI Parking Solutions some ragtag militia deployed to terrorise Bulawayo motorists? Motorists have suffered great anguish from these unhinged TTI clamping and parking marshals.

They are an intolerable nuisance that terrorises and harasses motorists daily. It is disgraceful to see how these marshals conduct themselves towards motorists, especially the elderly, disabled, and sick. It is quite unfortunate that these supposed representatives of Local Government have resorted to behaving like a terrorist militia, lacking both moral and human decency. The Bulawayo City Council must take strong disciplinary action against these rude marshals who have made driving and parking in the city centre seem like a crime.

As if the sorry state of Bulawayo’s roads isn’t enough, motorists now also have to contend with the barbaric behaviour of TTI clamping and parking marshals. It is evident that these marshals are not trained to engage with motorists with respect and understanding. They behave like they are above the law, and their actions have become a source of anxiety for motorists.

Many have lamented the indifference and poor attitude the marshals display, even in clear situations that a motorist is in distress. Time and time again, they clamp cars without giving proper warning or reason, leaving motorists stranded in the city centre. Such an act shows that these marshals have no respect for the laws that they claim to uphold, and it is unacceptable for them to behave in such a manner.

One of the biggest concerns has been the way the marshals treat the elderly, disabled, and sick. These are some of the most vulnerable members of society, and it is disheartening to see that the marshals fail to act with compassion and care. Instead, they show a blatant disregard for these motorists’ special needs and circumstances. Such behaviour is inhumane and shameful and should not be tolerated in a civilised society.

BCC must show some leadership and take a stand against such errant behaviour. Council has a responsibility to protect and serve its residents, which includes ensuring the enforcement of parking laws. However, this does not mean allowing the marshals to inflict pain and suffering on innocent people.

BCC should establish a code of conduct for marshals and implement it in full force. This will help to curb some of the excesses witnessed at some CBD parking bays. Council must also investigate and hold accountable any marshal found guilty of harassing or discriminating against a motorist. Such actions will help restore faith in the marshals’ ability to do their job correctly.

Bulawayo motorists have had enough of TTI clamping and parking marshals’ thuggish behaviour, and council must act decisively to end this problem. It’s time to put an end to the fear and anxiety these marshals have caused in parking bays.