By Victor Fanuel
Harare – The Office of the President and Cabinet has ordered the immediate shutdown of Zone Gardens Night Club, operating from Zanu PF’s district offices at Number 2 Campbell Road in Borrowdale, citing noise pollution and abuse of operating licences.
In a letter dated July 8, 2025, Presidential Affairs and Devolution permanent secretary, engineer Tafadzwa Muguti blasted city officials, police, and Zanu PF Harare for ignoring complaints from residents.
“I am writing to express extreme disappointment and concern regarding the blatant disregard for the menace caused at Zone Gardens Night Club despite your offices having been engaged and promised to act on the matter,” Muguti wrote.
The venue, which holds a restaurant licence, is owned by Blessed “JB” Charakupa and operates from the ruling party’s Pomona district headquarters.
Residents took the matter directly to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, prompting intervention from the highest office.
Investigations found the establishment was operating as a full nightclub in breach of its licence, causing “disharmony within the community.”
“I thus direct you to immediately ratify this menace by closing down Zone Gardens Night Club by Friday 11 July 2025 and revoke all permits issued by the City of Harare,” Muguti directed.
Zanu PF Harare province was also ordered to cancel its lease with the operator, with Muguti warning that any further disputes must go through his office.
The presidency also rebuked the City of Harare and law enforcement for failing to act.
“The City of Harare, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and the Office of the Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province should join hands and ensure that there is order in the province,” Muguti advised.
The directive comes weeks after the nightclub’s owner, Charakupa, was convicted of assault in May.
Harare magistrate Mr Gamuchirai Gore found him guilty after a full trial, ruling that the state had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The incident occurred in January at Habhana Lounge, where Charakupa was identified as the attacker in a violent altercation that left two patrons with broken teeth, swollen mouths, and other injuries.
The directive signals a rare public reprimand of operations linked to ruling party structures, raising questions about regulatory enforcement and the use of public and political spaces for private commercial gain.
