Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart made a notable absence at the Independence Day celebrations held at White City Stadium yesterday, citing the government’s disrespect and undermining of his office.

In a statement on social media, Coltart revealed that the office of the mayor was not invited to attend the event, a courtesy he believes should be extended to the office, not just him personally.

Coltart expressed his disappointment, stating that mayors have been snubbed at Independence Day celebrations in recent years, leading to their absence. He emphasized that he will not allow the office of mayor to be disrespected again.

This incident follows a similar occurrence at a business expo a few weeks ago, where Coltart was invited but the office of mayor was snubbed by the government. He registered his protest and left the event.

Coltart has made it clear that he will ensure appropriate government officials are invited to events under his control and expects the office of mayor to be respected in similar fashion going forward. His boycott of the Independence Day celebrations serves as a statement against the government’s disregard for the office of mayor.