Correspondence from Hwange reports that the Officer Commanding the District (DISPOL) told officials of Hwange Agenda that they must enjoy themselves to the fullest now because the police will not clear their meetings in the coming year. The ban, if it is successful is seen as a major defeat to democracy. This will be not the first time though to ban pro-democratic activities as during the run up to the 2008 Presidential Runoff the Police force banned activities and programmes of non- governmental organisations.
Inyathi- The senator for Bubi-Umguza constituency, Mr Lot Mbambo (ZANU PF) threatened commuter omnibus touts and drivers with eviction from the route that they ply. Mbambo, who was travelling in his senatorial vehicle, was pirating (loading passengers without permission) at Mahamba Business Centre at Inyathi. This did not go down well with the touts who approached him to express their complaint. However, Mbambo threatened the crew with eviction from the route. This maybe the last time you use this route. Do you realise who I am? said Mbambo, continuing to load passengers. The laws of the country do not allow private vehicles to ferry passengers. At roadblocks Mbambo was neither stopped nor queried about the passengers as the police quickly realised who he was.
Bulawayo Agenda is a civil society organisation that conducts advocacy on issues of democracy. It is committed to providing an apolitical platform for people to express their views and debate on matters that affect their lives. It has active chapters in Gweru, Gwanda, Plumtree, Victoria Falls, Matopo, Hwange, Binga, Nkayi, Lupane and Tsholotsho.