food distribution in the area. She reported theft of food by Zanu-PF officials in
Dabula West Village, Dabengwa West Village and Mathole as well as Dabengwa
East villages.
On 30 January 2016, village head and chairperson of area village heads in 5
villages in Ward 16 Bubi, Dabengwa East, Dabengwa West, Dabula West,
Mathole and Dabula East, Izon Mhlanga was allegedly barred from participating
in food distribution by Robert Mhlanga ostensibly acting on behalf of war vets in
the area. Victim was accused of giving food to everyone yet only Zanu-PF
members were supposed to benefit according to them.
Hwange East No violations of civil and political rights noted but rampant hunger
and health issues affecting mostly women and children. Lots of pupils dropping
out of school and getting into early marriages.
Matabeleland South
Not much inter party disturbances were recorded in the province except in cases of food
distribution where Zanu-PF activists were allegedly discriminating against members of
the opposition.
Highlights:
On 30 January 2016, in a case of discrimination and corruption, Zanu-PF ward
members in Mtshazo area of Gwanda North barred elected councillor Kelan
Ndlovu of MDC party led by Welshman Ncube, from distribution of social
welfare food. They had their own list of beneficiaries which was done in a partisan
manner. Normally food is distributed by councillors and village heads.
Midlands
Political intolerance towards opposition party members was the order of the day during
the month of January with several such people failing to access economic means due to
their questionable political background. Others were dethroned from leadership positions
for airing views synonymous with the opposition.
Tension in Zanu-PF continued mainly between the G40 and Team Lacoste as each faction
tried to outdo the other in the fight to succeed President Mugabe. Vice President
Emmerson Mnangagwa has deep roots in the Midlands and it is widely believed that the
province could be his launch pad in the event he formally declares his intention to bid for
the presidency.
On the other hand, People First has caused shock waves mainly in the opposition party
MDC-T where a number of prominent members have jumped ship to find shelter in the
new party.
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