Mugabe thugs disrupt MDC anniversary

02 October 2007

Events to mark the 8th anniversary of the founding of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), the main opposition party in Zimbabwe, have been violently disrupted by pro-government militias.

In Masvingo, a traditional base for MDC supporters, stone-throwing thugs from President Mugabes ruling Zanu-PF party attacked over hundred delegates attending a Youth Forum workshop, injuring several and damaging property. The workshop was convened to discuss strategy for the 2008 elections.

Deputy Minister of Water Resources and Infrastructural Development, Walter Mzembi, who represents Masvingo South constituency in Parliament, denied allegations that he sanctioned the attack.

Madock Chivasa, National Constitutional Assembly spokesperson, said that the meeting was initially cleared by police who then stood aside on instruction from ZANU PF. Chivasa was prevented from giving a presentation at the meeting, being among the 15 youths arrested.

Police were deployed to monitor the sanctioned meeting, as provided in the Public Order and Security Act (POSA), but the attackers were left scot-free, an ominous sign for prospects of a free and fair election.

After several hours the police finally managed to come up with a charge against Chivasa for undermining police authority. Wellington Zindove, the Youth Forum Project Coordinator, is also being charged with convening the meeting.

Another participant commented on condition of anonymity that it would have been more honourable if the Honourable Mzembi had equipped the ZANU PF militia with ideas instead of stones so that they could engage in dialogue with their fellow youths.

Despite the threat of further violence, Masvingo citizens turned out on the following day to hear an anniversary celebration address by the MDC president Morgan Tsvangirai.

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Ontibile Kababongwe is Volunteer Editor of the OneWorld Zimbabwe Guide