Hundreds protest against new water tariffs in Mutare

By Tichaona Sibanda
25 October 2007

There was a peaceful protest march by hundreds of Woza and Moza members in Mutare late on Wednesday, against the huge increases in water tariffs recently introduced by the government.

A statement issued at the end of the protest by Woza said nearly 300 women and men marched for several blocks through the eastern city to the civic centre, demanding access to affordable water and a more reliable service.

The statement added that there were no arrests during or after the demonstration as riot police officers arrived after the protesters had dispersed. Several bystanders are reported to have joined in the procession.

The protestors also called for an end to violence against human rights defenders. This is the fourth Woza demonstration in Mutare this year and the third peaceful street action this month, following two in Bulawayo and one in Harare.

There have been concerns that state security agents are in the habit of visiting homes of activists at night in Mutare, long after demonstrations are over. After a demonstration in Mutare in August, several members had their homes visited and illegally searched. It is expected that similar harassment of activists will occur in the coming weeks.