In an interview after the violence took place on Saturday MDC-T Chairman for Murewa west, Farai Chibiku, said about 30 Zanu (PF) supporters were travelling in trucks owned by the party’s aspiring MP, Rudd Ndoro.
“They just approached us while we were having a meeting and started beating us,” said Chibiku, visibly in pain.
“We ran away and then they started to throw stones. Some fell on our members, but we managed to escape. They then took Tonderai’s bicycle and also our book which contained $27. We did not fight back since our leadership has warned us against being involved in violence,” he added.
Mugabe’s anti-violence message, delivered at the burial of retired General Solomon Mujuru, was dismissed by many as insincere. It certainly has permeated to the party faithful, who continue to beat up perceived opponents, or to the police.
“We have reported the case to the police and we have also written to our party leadership, who have told us that it is important to put these cases in writing so that they will be presented to the political party leadership and also to SADC,” said Chibiku.
Police at Musami Police Post confirmed that they had been reports of violence in the area but did not comment further, saying they were not allowed to speak to the media.
“Mugabe is not serious. All these people are scared of him and would follow his orders if he directed them not to be violent. Our leadership has directed us not to be violent and that is exactly what we do. Zanu (PF) supporters should also do the same,” said Tonderai Jinga whose T-shirt was torn in the attack.
Name & Shame
Zanu (PF) supporters identified throwing stones: John Makiwa, John Chirowe, Jaji Chigaswa, Nomatter Makoni, Dick Chimwe, Martin Chigusiwa, Tawanda Saya, Charles Mandingo.
Post published in: Zimbabwe News