Commercial Farmers' Union
Information Centre
Land Invasions Sitrep - 31 March 2000
To date 884 properties have been affected by the farm invasions, 522 of which are currently occupied. This means 134 new invasions this week. Some invasions are becoming more aggressive, with the odd incidents of violence being reported.
This is particularly evident where opposition parties have been known to be supported. We understand that there will be a Constitutional Amendment that will be debated in Parliament next week, regarding the land issue. The much talked about Court Order continues with an application for a Variance to the Order from the Attorney General's office. These papers were served on the CFU at the beginning of this week and a response to the Variance has been filed with the High Court.
We suggest that you keep your local police fully briefed at all times as usual over this weekend and that you keep in contact with each other for support.
Mash Central -
The Governor has issued an order that Propol are to arrest any farmer support groups who confront invaders under the Law and Order Maintenance Act. Intimidation continues in some areas. Workers were assaulted on one farm in Mutepatepa.
Mash West North -
A total of 167 farms have been invaded, 82 of which are currently occupied.
Mash West South -
Two invasions, one of which involved a death threat. A road block was constructed on the Porta Road. The rest of the area was quiet.
Mash East -
From the past few days there are clear indications that there will be an escalation of activity, and threats continue. On one property a worker's child has gone missing. This has upset workers and it is believed that this is a result of the invaders.Reliable sources inform us that transport will be provided from Tafara to move invaders to the Goromonzi/Arcturus area this weekend.
Manicaland -
Two new invasions today. There are indications that there could be some activity which will be politically linked. Otherwise quiet.
Midlands -
Invaders are still clearing land and cutting timber. Police intervention has been insufficient. The CFU Regional Executive Officer will be in the office on Saturday morning.
Matabeleland
- There seems to be little movement in most areas. President Mugabe today handed over Dromoland Farm to 231 families as part of second phase of the land reform and resettlement programme.
Masvingo
- Generally quiet with a few reinvansions of properties occurring.
End