Bulawayo
The province continued to record human rights violations brought about by high
levels of intolerance across political parties. Individuals were at the forefront of
violating citizens’ rights in the name of their political parties and outfits. For
example, it was noted that a group of four Mthwakazi activists led by Mzingaye
Ndimande forced a CCC member to remove his party t-shirt. The CCC member was
wearing the t-shirt at a residence meeting at Stanley Hall when he was told to
remove it. The four activists took the t-shirt and tore it in his presence. Mthwakazi
activists continue to violate citizens’ rights under the banner that citizens should
not support political parties led by people from other regions. Simply put, they are
determined to violate the rights of anyone who does not support them because
whoever resides in Matabeleland should primarily support Mthwakazi.
On the other hand, Zanu PF continues to extend its hegemony by forcing citizens
to be part of their structures against their rights. During the month, Mandlenkosi
Ncube, a party activist, went around the market square forcing new vendors to
buy party cards. Verified facts indicate that Ncube told vendors that were recently
allocated stands to fully join Zanu PF and partake in any activity organised by the
party or risk losing the stand. The cards were going for $2.00. This appears to be a
strategy the party uses to gain popular support and shrink the operational space
for individuals to exercise their rights. Intra-party violence has also been
reported, where members disagree over policy direction and leadership decisions,
often resulting in violence. Such a case was recorded in the Nkulumane
constituency as a CCC member identified as Fanelo Sibanda assaulted a fellow
party member Vuyani Zimbili. Reports state that the two, together with others,
were arguing about the possibility of the CCC winning the forthcoming elections.
Verified facts indicate that Zimbili became critical of the party executive, citing a
lack of clear vision. This angered Sibanda, who lost his temper and slapped Zimbili
for undermining the leadership of Nelson Chamisa.
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