OCTOBER 2022
Midlands
Cases of political violence in Chirumhanzu South, Takawira and ward 6 were
on the increase in the run-up to the 22 October 2022 by-elections in
Midland’s province. On 16 October 2022, Zanu PF members allegedly moved
around during the night intimidating, assaulting and harassing CCC
supporters and other villagers. One CCC member was badly injured and was
rushed to the hospital as a result of the assault. The perpetrators were
identified as Jaya and Danger, two Zanu PF members from Ward 6. In a
similar case on 3 October in Gumunyu, Gokwe North ward 12, a CCC
supporter was threatened whilst playing a game of pool at a local shopping
centre. The victim was threatened with shooting if he continued discussing
politics.
Mashonaland Central
As Zanu PF supporters pressured citizens into supporting the ruling party in
the general elections expected in 2023, the political atmosphere was hostile.
Zanu PF won the local authority by-election in Guruve North ward 4, which
was marked by vote-buying, intimidation, and harassment of opposition
supporters. Prior to the by-election, on October 16, Zanu PF youths under
the leadership of Conwell Kufara interrupted a CCC campaign in Guruve
North by blocking the campaign team that was delivering campaign posters.
In violation of Chapter 15 of the Constitution, which forbids traditional
leaders from engaging in partisan politics, the habit of politicking from
village chiefs persisted. During a Zanu PF meeting on October 12, former
vice president Kembo Mohadi addressed village leaders in the Guruve
District. Several traditional leaders swore allegiance to Zanu PF ahead of the
2023 elections, and the majority of village heads were dressed in party
attire.
The Zimbabwe Peace Project
Monthly Monitoring Report
18