Resist, Reject and Report Violence, #RRRV2023
Matabeleland North
In Umguza constituency ward 2, the village head identified as Teresa Nyathi forced
villagers to attend Zanu PF campaign activities. Nyathi told the villagers that they
should be reminded that they got their stands through Zanu PF and those that fail to
attend and campaign for the party risk being expelled from the ward. In Jotsholo village,
it was reported that a Zanu PF member identified as JR Khumalo warned villagers to
vote for Zanu PF in the forthcoming elections. Allegedly, Khumalo further remarked that
for peace to prevail villagers should campaign and take part in the Zanu PF activities.
Political intolerance was reported in ward 5 at Mncetshwa village, where David Dube of
Mthwakazi Republic Party was going around the shops intimidating supporters of CCC,
saying that they were fools for following their Party President, Nelson Chamisa. He
allegedly further warned that those found voting for CCC in the ward would be beaten
up.
Matabeleland South
In Humbane village ward 17, it was reported that Zanu PF activists went around
homesteads recording citizens that are allegedly criticising Zanu PF. In a community
meeting their ringleader identified as Simiso Gwala warned villagers that they have been
given the mandate by the party to deal with individuals criticising the party and
government. Gwala is said to be working with others in different wards that include
Patricia Mlauzi and Peter Dube. In ward 5 of Insiza South, it was reported that a Zanu PF
activist identified as Moyoza told community members that everyone was obliged to
vote for the ruling party. Allegedly, Moyoza promised terror to villagers and households
that might vote for any opposition party. He further remarked that, "It was easier for
Zanu PF to win than CCC”. He then warned that they were prepared to beat up citizens
who intended to vote Zanu PF out of power.
January 2023
The Zimbabwe Peace Project Monthly Monitoring Report
29