By Naledi Nyoni
HARARE — Cabinet has approved a Bill that seeks to empower municipal police to arrest, investigate and prosecute people accused of violating local authority by-laws, in a proposed overhaul of municipal law enforcement.
The Municipal Police and Courts Bill, 2026 will now undergo the parliamentary process, where it will be tabled before lawmakers for debate and consideration before being sent to the President for assent if approved by Parliament.
Presented to Cabinet by Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, the Bill seeks to establish dedicated municipal police services and municipal courts aimed at strengthening enforcement of council regulations, improving public safety and enhancing service delivery.
Government said the proposed legislation is intended to address weaknesses in the enforcement of local authority by-laws by creating coordinated municipal enforcement structures with powers to apprehend offenders, investigate violations and prosecute cases through municipal courts.
If passed by Parliament and assented to by the President, the law will provide municipal police with a formal mandate to enforce council by-laws, including regulations relating to public order, environmental management and traffic control.
The Bill also provides for the establishment of municipal courts with jurisdiction over municipal by-laws, minor offences and traffic violations, while allowing for the appointment of municipal magistrates and other officials required to administer the courts.
Government said the proposed law builds on provisions contained in the Urban Councils Act [Chapter 29:15] and the Rural District Councils Act [Chapter 29:13], which empower local authorities to make and enforce by-laws within their jurisdictions.
Cabinet said the reforms are aimed at improving compliance with municipal regulations, strengthening local governance and enhancing the ability of councils to deliver services effectively.
The proposed legislation is also expected to support constitutional devolution principles by expanding the institutional capacity of local authorities while improving public safety and environmental management outcomes.
