BULAWAYO - Zanu (PF) supporters and war veterans are forcing newly resettled farmers and the few remaining white commercial farmers in Umguza to donate money or livestock for President Robert Mugabes birthday celebrations.Last week I received a letter from the local organizing committee of the celebrations asking me to chip in with a beast for the presidents celebrations, said a local white farmer. The letter had a Matabeleland North Zanu (PF) stamp and was signed by Michel Ndlovu. It was handed to one of my farm managers while I was in South Africa on business.
The farmer, who is a strong MDC supporter in the area, said he would consult with his party first before making the donations. There are chances that my property might be taken if I fail to donate the beast. Anyway, I will stand guided by what my fellow party members say.
Another resettled farmer, James Chiwetu, said he had also been asked to donate maize and cabbages for the birthday celebrations. There was a meeting at the Country Club where all beneficiaries of the land reform programme in the area were told to thank Mugabe for giving them land by donating farm produce, livestock or money towards the celebrations. Although I am against the idea I agreed to contribute something towards the bash because of the fear of losing my land, he said.
On Saturday, the Bulawayo committee responsible for raising funds for the event held a meeting at a local hotel where they presented a paltry $US100 that they had acquired.
Post published in: News