EDITOR — I am writing to draw attention to a symbol located in the middle of our city — the crumbling structure of Harvest House. 

Once a proud emblem of the opposition, Harvest House now stands in a state of disrepair, mirroring the challenges and decline faced by the political opposition in Zimbabwe.

The tale of Harvest House is not merely one of neglected architecture but a powerful metaphor for the struggles and setbacks experienced by the opposition over the years. The peeling paint and crumbling walls serve as a physical manifestation of the party’s waning influence and the challenges it has encountered in its futile bid to keep itself alive.

Initially, Harvest House touted itself as more than just a building; it presented itself as a harbinger of ‘reform’, which has never been made clear or fully explained to the masses. Promises of ‘progress’ and accountability have come to naught. With the passage of time, the reality of political complexities, internal divisions and external pressures have taken their toll.

Today, as we walk past Harvest House, we are reminded not only of broken promises but also of the futility of unrealistic dreams. The decay of this structure reflects the results of selling out and foreign ideas that are not rooted in the dreams and aspirations of the masses.

It is crucial to recognise that the decline of Harvest House is not just a symbolic gesture; but a call to patriotism and expending our energies in endeavours that build Zimbabwe for Zimbabweans by Zimbabweans.

It reminds us of the importance of accountability and transparency in striving for a better future for all citizens. As we reflect on the symbolic decay of Harvest House, let us also reflect on the resilience of the Zimbabwean people and their unwavering commitment to democracy and progress rooted in the ideals of the liberation struggle.

I hope the opposition-led Harare City Council will one day have the courage to invoke its by-laws and have Harvest House spruced up. It certainly requires a facelift, which is long overdue.

Anotida  Nyashanu,

Harare.