According to the statement, the MDC-T youth leadership had recruited over 100 youths in the suburb as part of its recruitment and mobilisation drive before Zanu (PF) thugs attacked them with sticks, stones and iron bars.
Johanna Mamombe, MDC-T Harare West district youth secretary, Benard Ncube, Harare West district chair and Tangai Magawa, the Hatfield district youth chair were reportedly attacked and had to be hospitalized.
The statement said Trust Muchena, the Glen Norah youth organising secretary, was kidnapped by Zanu (PF) youths and dumped him at Budiriro 2 police station, together with five other party members.
“Three other victims were hospitalised while six more were arrested after they were turned perpetrators by police.
“It was in fact the victims who were arrested as the police once again showed their bias in the wake of the resurgence of Zanu (PF) violence,” said the statement from the MDC-T information department.
The Zanu (PF) youths were reportedly led by their Harare province chairperson, Godfrey Gomwe, who directed the attack against those wearing MDC-T regalia and carrying out visibility programmes in Budiriro.
The victims were ordered to remove MDC-T T-shirts.
“MDC youth provincial chairperson, Stan Manyenga, attracted the ire of the police for rescuing Johanna and Bernard before taking them to a local hospital for treatment,” said the information department.
Police officers from the Law and Order section reportedly went to Manyenga’s home later in the afternoon seeking to question him.
MDC-T has expressed concern at the violent behaviour, saying Zanu (PF) and other citizens should focus on reviving the economy and creating jobs for the youth.
“We call upon the police to execute its mandate without fear or favour. Zanu PF has not changed and violence continues to be part of their DNA.
“We urge the police to arrest the real perpetrators of violence and to release our innocent members immediately,” read the statement.
Post published in: News