Two MDC parliamentarians arrested
By Tichaona Sibanda
21 May 2008

The ZANU-PF regime’s crackdown on its opponents continued this week with the arrest of two more MDC legislators on charges of inciting the violence that continues to rock the country.

Ian Kay, MDC MP for Marondera and one of the two white members of parliament was picked up from his house on Tuesday, while the MP for Mkoba in Gweru, Amos Chibaya was detained on Wednesday morning.
Kay’s son David told us that police officers first visited the legislator on Monday, accusing him of masterminding all the violence in Mashonaland East.

‘They searched the house, looking for incriminating evidence. They also went through the computer looking for pictures but found nothing,’ David said.

Kay was due in court on Wednesday but police said they were still carrying out investigations. His lawyers however are waiting for the 48hours to elapse before they can apply for his bail.

‘His lawyers have told us the authorities would not have any grounds to detain him after the 48 hours. Hopefully they should be able to take him to court tomorrow (Thursday) or else the lawyers will apply for discharge,’ his son said.

The MDC’s Director for Information, Luke Tamborinyoka said Chibaya was detained on Wednesday morning on charges of trying to stir up revolt in police ranks.

‘He was arrested this morning for inciting junior officers to rebel against their seniors. The police said he made the remarks at a rally,’ Tamborinyoka said.

On May 12, police also arrested MDC MP Heya Shoko on public violence charges. The MDC won control of parliament from Zanu-PF at elections on March 29.