THE Zanu PF Chinhoyi constituency losing candidate in the 2023 harmonised elections narrowly escaped arrest for contempt of court after hastily vacating a disputed piece of land at Dundrennam Farm in Lions’ Den, Mashonaland West province.
Thomas Chidzomba was accused of unlawfully occupying part of the farm, owned by Brink Bosman, in 2024.
He occupied the farm on the strength of a power of attorney purportedly issued by Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission commissioner and former Makonde legislator Kindness Paradza.
Chidzomba was ordered to vacate the property after the court ruled that his occupation was without lawful authority.
He subsequently filed an appeal at the High Court, citing procedural and substantive irregularities in the initial judgment.
However, the High Court last month upheld the lower court’s ruling and granted him 10 days to remove his property from the premises and restore vacant possession to the lawful owner.
After the expiry of the deadline, Chidzomba is alleged to have partially complied with the order, raising the prospect of contempt proceedings.
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Bosman returned to court, arguing that full compliance had not been achieved as the perimeter fence and gum poles remained, impeding his use and occupation of the property.
Chidzomba’s legal representative, Fortune Murisi, acknowledged delays but said his client had fully complied with the court order.
“There may have been some delays which were communicated to Bosman, but we have since fully complied in accordance with the court’s directive,” Murisi said.
To avoid possible arrest, Chidzomba reportedly rushed to the site and instructed villagers to remove the remaining gum poles and fencing material for their use, effectively clearing the property.
Bosman expressed relief at the development, saying the matter had finally been resolved.
“I am relieved that I can now fully utilise my property without any interference,” he said.
