Choppies to challenge 'unlawful' eviction

Staff Writer | Tuesday July 25, 2023 06:00

A few days ago the regional grocer that had tenancy was thrown out of the building after the landlord obtained an eviction order from that country's High Court. 'The eviction order was obtained behind our back hence we are challenging it. We have a lease agreement which lapses in 2028,' Ottapathu explained on Saturday.

Several media reports in Zimbabwe alluded to 'alleged connivance between Cembeee Private Limited and Africa Flea Market Private Limited culminated in the sensational eviction of Choppies Supermarket in Gweru'. Contrary to some reports, Choppies says it was not evicted for non-payment of rentals. The retailer alleged scheming between some parties in the saga.

It has since emerged that Choppies had a running lease which lapses sometime in 2028. The landlord, Cembee Private Limited, sold the building and did not inform the supermarket about the development.

The alleged agreement between the two parties was to fast-track the eviction of Choppies from the building considering that the retail chain had a long binding lease, as reported.

'The order, which compelled Cembee to vacate the building in 48 hours, saw Choppies being evicted. The eviction further saw Choppies being forced to remove its products from the building.' Despite the setback, the supermarket filed an urgent application at the High Court to challenge the eviction. 'Customers must not worry too much because we will bounce back,' Ottapathu said.