By Patience Gondo
SUPPORTERS of Arsenal F.C. in Harare are preparing for massive celebrations after the Zimbabwe Republic Police granted the Arsenal Fans Harare Chapter official clearance to hold an end of season parade.
The parade will happen on May 31.
The approval, contained in a letter signed by Superintendent Shepherd Mbimbi on behalf of the Officer Commanding Police, authorises supporters to march from Harare Gardens through Herbert Chitepo Street and Prince Edward Street.
The parade will conclude at Alexandra Sports Club.
The event is expected to run from 2PM to 5PM, with police instructing organisers to stick to the approved route and timeframe while ensuring that no laws are violated.
“Please confine your event to the above stated venue and time outlined,”
“Make sure that no Zimbabwean laws are violated. Police will monitor. For escort management liaise with Officer Commanding Harare Traffic who is contactable on direct line 777644 or general line 777777 extension 1053,”Mbimbi said.
The planned parade comes amid growing excitement among Arsenal supporters following the club’s reported English Premier League triumph, a feat that would mark the North London side’s first league title in 22 years.
According to reports, Arsenal last lifted the English top flight crown during the famous 2003/04 Invincible campaign under legendary French manager Arsène Wenger, after the club had completed an entire league season unbeaten an achievement still regarded as one of the greatest in English football history.
For years after that historic triumph, Arsenal endured periods of decline, managerial instability and repeated near misses in the title race, leading many rival supporters to mock the club for failing to return to its former heights.
Arsenal however under coach Mikel Arteta, Arsenal gradually rebuilt into serious contenders through a project focused on youth development, tactical discipline and aggressive attacking football.
The club’s resurgence has reignited belief among supporters worldwide, including its massive fanbase in Zimbabwe.