via Transform Zim supporters attacked 27 November 2014 by Nelson Sibanda
Churches and residents suspected to support the fledgling Transform Zimbabwe party are under attack in Chitungwiza, according to party spokesperson Sungai Mazando.
Suspected Zanu (PF) Chipangano youths allegedly attacked TZ president Jacob Ngarivhume and dozens of party followers at a meeting held in Unit D, Chitungwiza on Saturday.
“The rowdy youths wielding sticks, iron bars, empty bottles and other weapons stormed the community meeting and attacked Ngarivhume who was in his car before beating up some people in the gathering. They smashed the car windows, while scores of party supporters sustained injuries and had clothes torn,” Mazando said, pointing out that Police Internal Security and Intelligence officers present were cowed into silence by the assailants.
Tents were pulled down and the youths attempted to set then on fire, damaging chairs and a public address system in the process. Police reports RRB1220/11/14 and RRB1221/11/14 were recorded at the Chitungwiza Unit D Police Post.
A nearby cell phone accessory shop run by Norest Svinurai, a TZ youth leader, was also looted. A police report was made and recorded as RRB1219/11/14.
Police confirmed receiving the reports but could not give details as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Riot police called to contain the situation could not help as the youth told them in no uncertain terms that no opposition would be allowed in Zengeza East.
Pastor Tawanda Muguti of the Calvary Power Ministry and TZ Zengeza East district executive member went into hiding after he was abducted by Zanu (PF) youths at a church service last Sunday and force marched to a militia base at Chinomona Shopping Centre.
On the same day, Perpetua Mataba, the TZ Zengeza East secretary for the women’s wing had her house stormed by Zanu (PF) youths, who threatened her with unspecified action for refusing to renounce her party membership.
Ngarivhume is currently on trial for holding party meetings without notifying the police. He is being charged under the Public Order and Security Act. His party has vowed to remain resolute, unmoved and determined in its quest to bring a new culture of politics based on tolerance and trust to the country.
COMMENTS