Mashonaland West
The political environment in Mashonaland West worsened in the month of
September as Hurungwe District became an undisputed hot spot. The setting-up
and operation of a terror organized violent group (Zvidhoma) in Hurungwe is a
sign that villagers will continue to have their political rights infringed. The cases of
political intolerance in the province were a reflection that opposition politics is
unwanted and Zvidhoma members of the ruling party are keen on ‘banning them’
in the area. On 8 September at Wire Business Centre in Magunje Hurungwe
Central a CCC chairperson was brutally assaulted by a Zanu PF activist identified as
Gebo. Reports indicate that Zanu PF activists are targeting CCC activists,
assaulting, harassing and intimidating them.
In another case that was reported on 9 September 2 CCC members from Chirota
Magunje Ward 25 in Hurungwe, were reportedly assaulted by Zanu PF activists. It
is alleged that the two were assaulted by Zanu PF ward Chairperson Frank
Ndambakuwa and his secretary Benhilda Chikomvu. The Zanu PF activists in
Hurungwe are trying to silence CCC members as the country braces for elections.
CCC members are being threatened, harassed and intimidated by Zanu PF
activists for exercising the constitutional rights of choosing and supporting a
political party of their choice. This shows how unpredictable Hurungwe district has
become with Zanu PF supporters failing to respect and promote political rights of
villagers and other political parties.
On another note, CCC security personnel, reportedly assaulted a News-Hawks
journalist Ruvimbo Muchenje at Gahadzima Grounds in Chinhoyi on 10
September. The assault and inhuman and degrading treatment on Muchenje
happened during a CCC rally. Reports state that Muchenje was trying to find her
way into the stadium and was beaten up by CCC party security who attempted to
block her from entering. She was then forced on to the ground and made to roll,
leaving her dress torn.
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