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CHRA calls for rates boycott
Combined Harare Residents' Association (CHRA)
February 23, 2004

Following CHRA's public meeting on 4 February, Harare City Council called for a meeting with residents to discuss the 2004 budget. This meeting was widely advertised (Some adverts had 'cancelled' across them but we were assured by the acting Chair of the Finance Committee that the meeting would go ahead).

At 8.15 am Monday, CHRA received a copy of a letter from the police to the acting mayor stating that since Council had not informed the ZRP, the meeting was therefore banned. Those residents who were present were verbally abused by a municipal employee who had a mob of about 50 people with him to ensure his 'orders' to disperse were followed.

We are dismayed that the Council failed to meet the requirements imposed by the regime and was unable to engage in a legitimate dialogue with residents.

CHRA reminds residents of the demands we made after 4 February and advises that, in light of the latest developments, we formally call upon all residents to object to the punitive budget by withholding all payments based upon the new budget until such time as Council acts responsibly and addresses our legitimate concerns.

CHRA is consulting lawyers to map out our legal challenge to the budget and we assure residents that we will continue to represent their best interests without fear or favour.

Visit the CHRA fact sheet

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