Zanu PF thugs set MDC official’s house ablaze in Buhera

By Violet Gonda
25 September 2006

The MDC has alleged that early Monday morning a group of ZANU PF thugs burnt to the ground the home of Veronica Bingwiza, the MDC women’s assembly chairperson for Buhera South.

Nelson Chamisa the spokesperson of the Tsvangirai MDC said the barbaric arson and assault took place at Gava village in Buhera South. He said; “The thugs led by a war veteran and Zanu PF supporter known as Gapu, first smashed all the windows of Bingwiza’s house before setting it ablaze, destroying property worth millions of dollars. Bingwiza was injured on the left ear and was bleeding profusely.”

He said the MDC filed a report with Buhera police with an Inspector Banda recording the details.

The opposition spokesperson said; “Once again, Zanu PF continues to show the world that it is a violent outfit of bloodhounds, which is allergic to a working democracy where people freely exercise their choice.”

Making reference to Mugabe’s statements quoted in the state controlled Herald, absolving the rough way the police have been dealing with protesters, Chamisa added; “We are dealing with a rogue regime and Mugabe’s irresponsible utterances supporting state thuggery are likely to muddy the political waters ahead of the forthcoming elections. Mugabe’s strong affinity for blood has cost this nation its rightful place among civilized nations.”

Rural Council Elections are expected towards the end of October and already reports of violence and election irregularities are beginning to emerge. It’s also reported that more than 300 candidates from both factions of the MDC were disqualified last week after they failed to produce clearance letters from village headmen in their areas. The news website Zimonline reported that nomination court officials demanded these letters last minute, making it impossible for candidates to acquire them. Furthermore it’s widely believed that many traditional leaders are sympathetic to the regime and this would, therefore, make this latest requirement very difficult for opposition members.