The document outlined the operation’s strategy: the army was to commandeer chiefs to “educate” people about the dangers of re-introducing colonialism by voting for MDC. But the first phase of the operation failed when people did not turn up for meetings and chiefs expressed their disgruntlement.
A retired army brigadier, identified as Choga, is said to be heading up the campaign, and villagers have told this newspaper that a group of party activists is moving around in an unmarked Isuzu KB Pick-up truck threatening people in Warikanda, Manyene, Chokodza, Zairimwe and Mahusvu among others.
Given the large number of police roadblocks all over the country, the fact that this group can move around in a truck without number plates suggests official connivance at the highest level.
“The intimidation was re-activated following the distribution of letters of instruction to traditional leaders by the Zanu (PF) provincial leadership to the effect that people had to be mobilised to support the party,” said our source.
Villagers report being forced to attend four lengthy party meetings every week, addressed separately by village elders, headmen, chiefs and war veterans, and have complained that this is interfering with their farming activities.
Efforts to get comment from Brigadier Choga were fruitless.When contacted for comment, Chief Mutekedza challenged the media to visit affected areas and verify issues for themselves.
“You journalists should come here and witness events for yourself. Why do you want us to do the job on your behalf while you enjoy the comfort of your offices in Harare? I do not want my life to be endangered after talking to journalists,” he said.
MDC-T Provincial Chairperson for Mashonaland East Province, Pinnel Denga, said the campaign was “dragging us back to the dark age of 2008”.
“It is disturbing to learn that people who participated in the liberation struggle are at the forefront denying the nation freedom,” added Denga.
He said his party appreciated the role played by war veterans in the fight against colonialism, and urged for an improvement of their welfare.
Post published in: News