Local govt minister Daniel Garwe urged to step down
By Staff Reporter
KWEKWE – Prominent human rights defender Maxwell Choga has intensified pressure on the government, calling for the immediate dismissal of Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe over his handling of urban housing and the ongoing destruction of livelihoods.
In a strongly worded statement released Thursday, the Kwekwe-based activist demanded that President Emmerson Mnangagwa relieve Garwe of his duties, accusing the Minister of presiding over policies that favor “enforcement exercises” over the welfare of ordinary Zimbabweans.
“I strongly believe that Minister Daniel Garwe should be fired… Zimbabwe needs leadership that understands the suffering of ordinary citizens and puts people’s welfare before enforcement exercises that leave families homeless and unemployed,” Choga stated.
The call for Garwe’s removal comes amid a wave of nationwide anxiety regarding house demolitions in urban and peri-urban areas. Critics argue that the Ministry of Local Government has been heavy-handed in targeting “illegal” structures without addressing the systemic corruption within local councils that allowed such structures to be built in the first place.
Choga challenged the government’s approach to urban planning, insisting that the burden of administrative failure should not fall solely on homeowners.
“The government must stop treating people’s homes and sources of income as if they have no value,” Choga said. “Before demolishing houses, authorities must investigate how building plans were approved and why council inspectors allowed construction to proceed.”
Maxwell Choga is no stranger to confrontation with the authorities. As a veteran human rights defender in the Midlands Province, he has a long-standing record of advocating for good governance and constitutionalism. Choga has previously been at the forefront of campaigns demanding accountability from local authorities regarding service delivery and the transparent allocation of land.
His latest intervention highlights a growing rift between civil society and the Ministry of Local Government. Minister Garwe, who previously headed the National Housing and Social Amenities portfolio, has faced persistent criticism for failing to deliver on the government’s ambitious housing targets while simultaneously overseeing the displacement of settlers in areas deemed “dysfunctional.”
Choga concluded his petition by urging the President to appoint a leader who prioritizes “accountability, affordable housing, and the protection of livelihoods.”
“My position is clear: Daniel Garwe must be fired. Zimbabweans deserve leadership that protects people, not leadership that adds to their suffering,” the statement read.
As of the time of publication, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works had not issued a formal response to Choga’s demands.
