province saw massive deployment of security forces and this induced fear and
uncertainty among the people.
HIGHLIGHTS
On 23 July in Gwanda Central Zanu PF member Alfred Kwidini is reported to
have verbally insulted district political commissar Cephas Sebata at a party
district meeting saying he was tired of empty party promises and would no
longer care for so called party authority. He is said have screamed that he no
longer wanted to hear about President Mugabe. The meeting took place at
ADA Guyu business centre around 1pm.
On 6 and 7 July most schools were closed and children were denied their
right to education in Matobo North. Most villagers working under the chicken
feed program could not continue after failing to get paid due to shortage of
cash in banks.
In Beitbridge from 1 to 3 July, thousands of people went into the streets to
demonstrate against the ban on importation of goods. The ban was
introduced and was implemented from July 1. Police tried to break up the
demonstration and this resulted in running battles and destruction of property.
A ZIMRA warehouse was burnt down, tyres were burnt, used to barricade
roads and several shops and vehicles were destroyed. Thirty six people were
subsequently arrested, brought before the courts and granted $80 bail each.
The trial date is yet to be set by the courts.
Matabeleland North
There were few political activities in the province. Schools and workplaces were shut
down on 6 July as people heeded calls for a nationwide stay away. Villagers
recorded poor harvest. In Hwange Colliery workers entered the third year without
salaries.
HIGHLIGHTS
In Binga North several children especially girls were reportedly dropping out of
school due to hunger and poverty. Many schools were affected with the worst
being Siansundu and Siachilaba schools.
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