Toyi-toyi banned by police ahead of elections

By Tererai Karimakwenda
13 March, 2008

The police on Wednesday announced a ban on the toyi-toyi dance, plus other measures that they said are aimed at preventing violence ahead of elections on March 29. Toyi-toying is a popular dance associated with political gatherings.

Police assistant commissioner Faustino Mazango told a news conference in Harare that they were prohibiting intimidating acts that are likely to disturb the peace. Mazango also commended election candidates, saying they had shown maturity since the start of their campaigns and instances of political violence have been few and isolated.

The move is ironic because it is the police who have been perpetrating most acts of violence and intimidation against innocent civilians during demonstrations and rallies. So far this year the police have assaulted students, opposition officials and supporters, plus activists from civil organisations as they tried to campaign, march peacefully or hold rallies and meetings. Many have been assaulted while in police custody.

The police have also been arresting victims of political violence when they support opposition parties, while allowing the ruling party thugs to go free. Banning the toyi-toyi would appear to be a diversion to take away the focus from the real issues affecting elections in Zimbabwe.