The Real Change Times Movement for Democratic Change a Party of Excellence! the Official Mouthpiece of the MDC

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i j t i n r i o h C The Real Change Times Movement for Democratic Change A Party of Excellence! The Official Mouthpiece of the MDC

Tuesday 27 September MDC Information & Publicity Department, Harvest House, 44 Nelson Mandela Ave, Harare, Zimbabwe Issue 087 2011 No more dud elections Zambians sent a clear message to SADC that politics of machetes, knobkerries and guns have no place in modern Africa - MDC Three years after the signing of the urgency before any credible poll could systems that protect the safety of the Global Political Agreement (GPA), an SADC and the African Union (AU) be a reality. And, to this end, all parties people. The report was published in international lawyers group says it is should support the reform process must cooperate fully with the efforts Johannesburg at a time when South clear a solution to Zimbabwe’s crisis through technical and financial aid, be of the Southern African Development Africa radically shifted its stance on remains elusive, mainly because of allowed to second monitors and peace Community (SADC) in its attempts to the Zimbabwean crisis, ditching former Zanu PF intransigence and political advisers to the transitional government. finalise a road map to a new Zimbabwe. president Thabo Mbeki’s so-called insincerity. policy of quiet diplomacy. “SADC should further review the The United Nations (UN) and the The influential International Bar existing legislative agenda to identify European Union (EU) should remain At a public meeting organised by Association’s Human Rights Institute GPA reform priorities that have not been actively diplomatically engaged in the Sapes Trust Dialogue, South (IBAHRI) says the environment is addressed, with a focus on enabling supporting and assisting the efforts Africa ambassador to Zimbabwe Vusi gravely polarised and characterised by a conditions for credible elections,” the of SADC and the AU to facilitate Mavimbela said President Jacob Zuma resurgence of Zanu PF violence, arrests, report says. processes and institutions supporting was clear about what needs to be done intimidation and hate speech, which the development of democratic and to deal decisively with the Zimbabwe contradicts the letter and spirit of the Despite the formation of the Inclusive accountable governance in Zimbabwe. situation. agreement – designed to see Zimbabwe Government, it is clear that hard-line an orderly transition to a democracy. elements within the Zanu PF, recently The report urges Zimbabwe’s “He has been busy, on diplomatic fingered by the late Solomon Mujuru vibrant civil society organisations meetings ahead of the United Nations The lawyers’ mission to Zimbabwe, as bent on derailing progress to peace to intensify their effort “to provide Summit, but after that he will undertaken at the beginning of the and security, do not wish to see order, coherent, systematic and accurate concentrate on the Zimbabwe issue,” second half of 2011, proposed a raft common sense and human security in reports and analysis of violence, said Mavimbela. “In his report to the of measures to arrest the deteriorating Zimbabwe. including by improving verification Sadc summit Zuma pledged to arrange situation and to respond to the already methods, identifying priority concerns, an interface programme with the poisoned political climate. The Justice Unity Dow These elements are abusing their control developing clear and effective channels political principals and how best we can mission was led by former High Court be adopted to ensure that Zimbabwe over of the state apparatus in a blatantly of communication and, ultimately, expedite the full implementation of the Judge, Unity Dow of Botswana; and complies with the dictates of the GPA partisan way to create conditions that by bringing findings to the attention GPA and help create conditions for a included South Africa’s Independent otherwise a return to normalcy shall are not conducive to a free and fair of local, regional and international smooth election in Zimbabwe.” Electoral Commission head advocate take a long time to be realised. election, the IBAHRI says in its latest policymakers, institutions and media”. Pansy Tlakula; Chicago-based human report published last week. In the meantime, President Tsvangirai rights and international law professor, “This should include human rights Key institutions like the judiciary, has dismissed, as impractical, calls by Bartram Brown; and University of Cape and rule of law reforms and reforming After its delegation visited Harare, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Robert Mugabe that Zimbabwe would Town constitutional and human rights the criminal justice system. A new Mutare and Bulawayo to assess the (ZEC), the Zimbabwe Human Rights have an election by March 2012. At the law professor, Christina Murray. Constitution should protect the rule state of the rule of law, the association Commission (ZHRC) need to be very latest, an election is only possible of law with, among other things, concluded that all aspects of the GPA strengthened to train the police on human much later in the year provided essential The group met local lawyers and provisions that secure the independence must be implemented as a matter of rights and on essential administrative reforms are put in place. civil society organisations for a of the judiciary. comprehensive assessment of the local scene. “The rate of arrests also “Consideration should also be given appears to have increased dramatically to creating a new top court, perhaps President Tsvangirai with UN Secretary General since some members of Zanu-PFbegan in the form of a constitutional court. President and Zimbabwe’s Prime calling for an early election and an end The Constitution should also guarantee to the inclusive government. Minister Morgan Tsvangirai last the genuine independence of a Friday met the United Nations Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Secretary-General Mr Ban Ki- Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, which should be responsible for the Moon in New York where the UN which maintains a hotline to assist appointment of all judges using a boss pledged to support the SADC people arrested on politically motivated transparent nominations process against effort for violence-free elections in charges, told the delegation that it agreed criteria based on merit. Zimbabwe. received 300 requests for assistance for the whole of 2010, but this had “A code of conduct for judges and The UN secretary-general expressed jumped to 800 for the first six months dismay at the slow pace of the magistrates should be introduced implementation of the Global of 2011,” says the report, published on providing for full and frank disclosure Wednesday. Political Agreement (GPA) and urged of the assets of the judges of the High the parties to speed up reforms for a Court and the Supreme Court. The JSC free and fair poll. “We hope that the “It should be noted that the current should have the power to discipline next election will be held in a free, wave of arrests fit into a broad pattern judges,” says the report. fair and non-violent manner. The next that gives rise to considerable concern election in Zimbabwe should be held about selective application of the Zimbabwean judges and magistrates differently from the one held three law… It appears that the police and appear to “exert very little control over years ago,” the UN boss said. prosecuting authorities are simply the prosecution process” – an issue arresting and detaining people as a form “We are pleased that you are putting which caused so much concern to the independent Commissions in of harassment and persecution, without mission. any reasonable prospect of successfully place, especially the Human Rights prosecuting them,” says the IBA. Commission and on our part, we will Zanu PF compromised many judicial do everything possible to ensure a officials by exploiting their poverty and free and fair election. We want to The lawyers suggested that SADC’s offering them farms, houses and other prevent tension and violence in the facilitation team must include, as part handouts in a partisan manner. next election.” of the road map to legitimacy, that the powers and role of Joint Monitoring President Tsvangirai thanked the UN Without title deeds, some of the officers position of SADC on the roadmap to a development, provision of energy, Committee (JOMIC) be increased to are seriously under pressure to toe the for its concern over the situation in deal effectively with cases of political Zimbabwe, urging the world body credible poll,” he said. food and clean water. Zanu PF line resulting in a clear conflict to assist by supporting the regional violence, including oversight of of interest. He lamented the slow pace of reforms, “In Zimbabwe, we want to ensure that investigations by national police and effort to ensure all parties adhere to the roadmap. especially media reforms, which he said there is no violence, no loss of lives producing regular public reports to the “An independent Director of Public were a key ingredient for a conducive and no loss of property,” he said. GPA signatories. Party leaders must Prosecutions (DPP) should be created, “We are worried about State environment for free and fair elections. be compelled and obliged to respond sanctioned violence and some of us The President met the UN secretary- removed from the Attorney General’s In his concluding remarks, the UN general at the world body’s publicly to these reports as they shall (AG) office. Independence of the are committed to ensuring that we form a corrective action. have a legitimate and credible poll. secretary-general said his main focus headquarters in New York. DPP from the executive for individual on the global scale was on sustainable prosecutorial decisions is necessary.” We are seeking global support for the Other far-reaching policy changes must

The people’s struggle for real change: Let’s finish it!!

1 ... As another Zanu PF zealot earns 20 years Machaya jailed for murder jail for rape of MDC activist in Masvingo Zanu PF governor’s son to waste away in jail for MDC murder in Gokwe A regional magistrate in Masvingo In 2009, a self-proclaimed war veteran has ruled that a Zanu PF base and Zanu PF supporter, Lovemore High Court Judge Nicholas Mathonsi the law into their own hands, when they commander, who assaulted and Manenji from Rusape in Manicaland has sentenced Farai Machaya, the son could have reported the break-in at a raped a married MDC supporter province was sentenced to 32 years in of a Zanu PF Midlands governor, Jason police station 3km away. High Court just before the presidential election prison for raping two MDC supporters Machaya, to 18 years jail for the murder judge, Justice Nicholas Mathonsi rejected runoff in 2008, be jailed for 20 years. in the run-up to the 2008 sham of Moses Chokuda, an MDC activist in attempts by the defence to have the case presidential run-off election. 2009. moved to Harare. The court was told that Gilbert Mavhenyengwa, a 55 year old self Manenji, 56, who is a Bishop of Mabasa The case involving Farai Machaya,32, The defence counsel led by Josinia Maupa Abel Maposa, brothers Edmore Gana, and Ambrose Dururu, representing the styled war veteran from Ruware Avapositori Church, was found guilty 29 and Bothwell Gana, 27, Obert Gavi, accused, had made a pre-trial application Settlement area Chiredzi, was of five counts of rape and sentenced to 25,Tirivashoma Mawadza,25, all of to have the matter postponed and moved accused of leading Zanu PF youths 32 years in prison by Rusape regional Gokwe Centre, has caused the extension to either Harare or Bulawayo. who broke into the victim’s home magistrate, Hosea Mujaya. of the High Court circuit in Gweru that as she slept with her husband. was supposed to have officially ended on They argued their clients would not get a During the trial, Manenji said he was Friday. fair trial at the hands of local prosecutors, They forced her out of bed and the Zanu PF base commander at Ruura who had refused to release them even after ordered her to march with other youths in Rusape and was using the name At the conclusion of the trial on Monday, they were granted $100 bail each by High towards their base, which was six “Untouchable”. the High Court found Machaya and Court judge Justice Martin Makonese. Justice Nicholas Mathonsi kilometres away. As she got tired along his accomplices guilty of murder and the way, Mavhenyengwa hit the victim The Zanu PF thug, armed with a sentenced them to terms ranging from one Justice Mathonsi, sitting with assessors of the six accused took turns to assault with a stick then dragged her behind machete and packets of condoms, Chokuda with booted feet and logs. to 18 years. Jameson Dhlula and Wellington Matemba, some bushes and raped her once. attacked two married MDC supporters ordered the trial to proceed in Gweru, in their homes during a week-long rape The judge told the four: “This is ruling the judge could handle any forms of On Tuesday last week, the trial could not proceed after one of the defence lawyers At the base she was severely assaulted spree. unacceptable. Instead of reporting the unfairness on the part of the State if any, and raped again by several youths, burglary matter to the police 3km away, were raised by the defence in the process asked for adjournment because he was not feeling well. after which she was tortured by lying The conviction of Masvingo’s you hired soldiers of fortune, who in turn of the trial. in the cold water of a nearby river Mavhenyengwa and Rusape’s Manenji, assaulted the deceased. The trial opened with all accused persons Justice Mathonsi then adjourned the case until the sun came up. For these though welcome, fall far short of the “The four of you proceeded to assault the entering a plea of not guilty before Justice to today although he warned trial would torturous acts, the magistrate described estimated 10 000 similar crimes of rape deceased and in the process you abducted Mathonsi. proceed with or without the lawyer if he Mavhenyengwa as “a disrespectful committed on Zimbabwe women since people and masqueraded as police officers does not turn up. thug and an opportunist”. 1999 for which the criminal justice and members of the army. A sentence The State, led by Daina Msipa, called system seems to have shown no interest that sends a clear message on the sanctity eight witnesses to give evidence against Chokuda’s body lies uncollected at “There is no excuse whatsoever for in pursuing. of life and the need to uphold the law is the accused persons. Gokwe District Hospital mortuary two- such unruly behaviour,” the magistrate necessary.” and-a-half years after he was murdered, said. “He did not use a condom. His In a Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition The State told the court the six accused with his family refusing to bury him until behaviour shows that HIV and Aids are study, Cries from Goromonzi, dozens of Two soldiers, Gavi and Mawadza persons picked up Chokuda from his his alleged killers are brought to justice. the least of his worries. He also put the women from the MDC published their involved in the brutal assault on Chokuda, home in Machaya’s car. Msipa said four complainant at risk of being infected. personal testimonies of encounters with who had been accused of a break-in at the Zanu PF rapists. Despite reporting their governor’s shop in Gokwe, were given “The accused also caused a lot of to the police, nothing has been done to suspended 12 month sentences. trauma and suffering to her husband and date. extended family. The trial, which opened on September 14, heard how Machaya, Maphosa and tyhe “He behaved like a thug. He ought to Gana brothers drove to Chokuda’s home in rural Gokwe on March 22, 2009, and realise that crime does not pay and we accused him of robbing Machaya’s shop have to send a message to society as at Gokwe Centre. well.”

The four had enlisted the services of the The ruling by regional magistrate Esther two soldiers to intimidate Chokuda, but it Muremba has been hailed by as a small was they who led the assault with logs and step in the right direction, because Zanu booted feet, leaving him for dead. PF thugs have operated with impunity in Zimbabwe, literally “getting away An autopsy report prepared for the court with murder”. revealed that Chokuda died from fractures on his cervical spine. He had sustained There have been many cases of brutal several injuries all over his body. rape, where the perpetrators have walked free, even though they were Zanu PF has used rape as a political weapon Justice Mathonsi said the four had taken Zanu PF’s handiwork and intolerance in times of elections has earned Machaya an 18 - year jail term known. against women especially in times of elections Zimbabwe salutes mature power transfer in Zambia lesson for Zanu PF to recognise that in the GPA and that the roadmap to trade unionist, joined the independence contested three elections. there is life after death and should free and fair elections in Zimbabwe is struggle a year before its fruition. The politician, who is married to a follow suit, accept defeat and admit implemented. doctor and has eight children, has been to relinquish power peacefully after a He set up his own Patriotic Front, nicknamed King Cobra for his acerbic defeat. A former porter who worked for the under whose banner he unsuccessfully tongue. now defunct British Rail, he told one The MDC believes that the elections in interviewer: “I never got any complaints Zambia have sent a clear lesson to both about my work. I want to sweep my the emerging and established dictators country even cleaner than I swept your in Africa that the people’s unfettered stations.” will must be allowed to prevail. In a profile on the website of his Our Zambian neighbours have sent Patriotic Front party, he claims not to a clear message that the politics of drink bottled water and adds that he will machetes, knobkerries and guns have not do so “until all Zambians have equal no place in modern Africa and violent access to clean water.” Newly elected Zambian President polls must be a subject for the archives. Michael Sata Sata was born in a rural district of We believe in the proud citizens of the British Protectorate of Northern The MDC congratulates the people of Africa in choosing their leaders with Rhodesia, as Zambia was then, in Zambia and Patriotic Front leader, and neither fear nor coercion. The MDC 1936 – 24 years before the country’s incoming President Michael Sata for believes in free and fair elections; free independence. holding peaceful, free and fair elections. and fair polls with undisputed results as necessary preconditions for breeding Little is known about the time he spent The Zambian elections are a major legitimate governments and leaders. in Britain apart from his stint working lesson to the rest of Africa that it is for British Rail and in various car possible to hold free and fair elections Democracy is a prerequisite for assembly plants. with an uncontested result. development. There cannot be any development in Africa without the The Patriotic Front recently claimed, The MDC salutes the people of necessary democratic tenets and in response to a change in Zambian Zambia for voting and changing their practices such as free and fair elections. electoral law that stipulated presidential governments in peace. candidates must have a degree, that Mr As the MDC fights for the people’s Sata also studied political science in The party further lauds Mr Rupiah hope, dignity, prosperity, security and London. Banda of the Movement for Multi-Party freedom, we remain alive to the thriving Democracy (MMD) for conceding democracy amongst our neighbours, Among his other qualifications it details defeat graciously. where election results are not privatised is one as a pilot that he obtained in but are announced expeditiously so that Russia. It was a bloodless election where all the elected government can immediately parties contested freely. begin to transact the people’s business. When he returned to Zambia, he joined the Northern Rhodesia police force A free and diverse media covered the As President Sata is sworn into office, and, according to his website, was polls while the citizens freely voted and the MDC appeals to him not to loose “the most senior African officer in the campaigned for political parties and sight over the hard work that was establishment”. candidates of their choice. being carried out by Mr Banda and other SADC leaders who are working When the winds of change began to The Zambian elections are an important in resolving all the outstanding issues sweep the continent, Mr Sata, by then a Jubilation in Lusaka as Zambians come of age in a violence- free poll. Outgoing president Rupiah Banda accepted life away from State House with dignity and grandeur, unlike other African leaders from his generation.

2 Youths – time to respond to call of duty Promise Mkwananzi For 30 years, the nation has witnessed never be seen or realized. Politics and whose livelihoods have been solely economic development. Secretary General, Youth Assembly a massive thinning of opportunities, broad-based empowerment are two dependent on the market place have rising unemployment, poverty, massive separate issues -- hence, the recent been driven out for being suspected to How on earth can our youths make it Zimbabwean youths possess a genetic displacements into the Diaspora and revolutions that have rocked north be aligned to the MDC, for refusing to when they are pitted against each other and natural disposition to help mounting anger. Africa and mass uprisings elsewhere, pay an illegal tax to Jimu Kunaka, a by the very government that purports to themselves and their nation whenever including Syria, South Africa and even political hobo, a lout siphoning people have fought for their independence so the people are consumed by unbriddled Authorities watched without concern England. their hard earned money with the that they could learn, work and produce tyranny and a hopelessly patronising the reduction of abundant youth energy apparent political protection from Zanu freely? dictorship. and optimism to waste due to public The predicament confronting young PF. policy confusion, a crisis of governance people today cannot be summed up Multitudes of our brilliant young men The record is very clear. In colonial and lack of political will and care for that easily on a single page: they are In Bulawayo, hundreds of vagrants have and women are wallowing in poverty Rhodesia, the youths -- upon seeing no new generations. enormous, overwhelming, stubborn and invaded companies and are refusing or in faraway lands while in possession prospects for equal opportunities, peace intricate. In our case, we are riding on to let go. This has no doubt disturbed of first class degrees in economics, and justice took over the liberation It is in this context that the challenges a wild stallion in confronting the youth young people who have been working business, law and medicine. Those baton and participated fully in a national confronting the youth in Zimbabwe challenge. in these companies. The question that with jobs are grossly under-employed, project that gave Zimbabwe its freedom must be tackled in a genuine and remains is whether an invasion is the are just like a miners at a stone mine. in 1980. effective way. Since 1980, Zimbabwe I was not surprised when I read recently appropriate way to do it. The result of A typical stone miner is one that you cannot account for two lost generations that Zimbabwe had ranked the lowest this man-made political instability is imagine in a dark deep pit armed only After a short honeymoon, Zanu PF whose fortunes Zanu PF recklessly among the countries in which it is that it decelerates potential investors, with only a chisel and a hammer, highjacked the people’s project and trampled upon through dictatorship and friendly to do business, and that the causes a decline in local confidence making enough to subsist in extreme launched a major assault on these tyranny. score had continued to decline. Some and directs all poisoned arrows onto poverty. gallant fighters, reducing them to of the statements that come from the our economy, and by extension, to all perpetual penury and hopeless. For 11 When the dictatorship realized that mouths of our politicians boggle the Zimbabwean youths. One has to produce a Zanu PF card to years from 1988 youths, through their the youth had turned their backs to mind. Robert Mugabe and Zanu PF access loans from the Ministry of Youth. various movements regrouped and Zanu PF and began to raise their voice spent the entire year insisting that there Youth cannot confidently embark on One has to show to be Zanu PF to be decided to come to the nation’s rescue for fundamental change and political would be elections 2011. business ventures, when creativity and permitted to form Upfumi Kuvadiki by being part of the key founders of the space, the party prescribed a dangerous innovation is stalled by a government and even to register an organization or MDC. remedy to confuse them further. Given the historical character of our that inculcates the impression that a company. elections, naturally his statement had young people can easily get rich on the Today, 12 years later they have never In a forlorn desire to control the stem a massive impact of the behavior of basis of ill-gotten wealth. As a result, millions of potential patriots looked back; they determined to finish the tide for political change, Zanu PF the market and the strategic alignment turn their backs and toil in the rough off that struggle against black on black hatched a programme in which the of business. His statements were not It is for this reason that you have the and tumble of other societies where oppression carefully masterminded by a nation’s future leaders were supposed made any better by the “economic emergence of speculative groups such they feel that they stand a better chance deceitful Zanu PF. to undergo militia training in a bid to gunpowder” that is being machine- as the feral Upfumi Kuvadiki. We to be recognized and rewarded for their ensure the party’s continued survival gunned by Kasukuwere threatening to have edified a spirit of entitlement, hard work. As key political actors in democratic through violence. That card failed take over every company on sight that bastardized respect for private property struggles, Zimbabwean youths dismally as the majority active is not indigenous. to the extent that when upfumi kuvadiki The government is awash with ghost know that the main drivers for an population opted for political and sees an enterprising young woman workers, most of them Border Gezi emancipatory revolution have been the economic exile for survival. Further, political violence, intimidation, running her shop, they don’t think of graduates, relatives and cousins of dearth of opportunities for personal Zanu PF reluctance and utter refusal to out-competing her but of taking over those at the top of the political echelons and collective national advancement Then came in Saviour Kasukuwere, respect the rule of law and numerous her enterprise. “working” as youth development -- pushing them to seek democratic a former driver and junior CIO other thoughtless utterances, especially officers. This inclination has left our change and freedom as a precursor for informer, with what he calls “economic from army generals gnawed into Thus some of our youths, especially youth with a predisposition that is comprehensive societal transformation. empowerment”, a damp ruse designed investor confidence, at home and those in Zanu PF, no longer believe skeptical of education and the patience as a brainwashing and mind-control abroad. Mugabe, however, insists that in innovation. We must address the and hard work that is required for one to The time has come for all of us to unite tool of the youths. The MDC youth the elections will be held no later than problem of political instability as a attain wealth. and claim our space; fight for equality Assembly can see through this next March. This has effectively kept foundation for fostering a new society and create conditions for a society deception. It is so obvious that nobody the country in an uncertain, election whose prosperity is based on merit and There is a need to redirect our society awash with opportunities. can be empowered by such wretched alert mode and creating an impression hard work. towards the paradigm of taking pride in tactics to demobilise the youths. of a person riding on a wild stallion. earned wealth and hard work. This can In far less than a decade after being the It is not by accident that contemporary only start with an initiative to ensure spearhead of the liberation struggle, There is a need for the authorities to Political instability dis-empowers and empirical data shows that there is that people`s skills are recognized and youths have experienced diminishing convey an honest message to a nation demobilizes young people. It opens up a positive correlation between a rewarded on the basis of their merit returns perennially leaving them on the fate of its future leaders. Gone avenues for political abuse as poverty democratic society and economic rather than the political party that they betrayed by a national revolution that are the days of cheap politicking about and desperation take centre stage. In prosperity. The freer a society is, the support. had cleared lost its way. empowerment whose effect would Mbare for example, hundreds of youths higher the likelihood for positive

an organised way for perpetrating “We are only able to place a government liberation movement. Walk the talkviolence against the people. onwe want whenviolence we all participate. Some are afraid to stand up and show their face Several villagers have told Crisis “As MDC we are against the Electoral on what they stand for, but everyone has Coalition during outreach meetings across Amendment Bill because Zanu PF wants a role to play in this democratisation the country – including a recent meeting registration to be polling station based, revolution,” he said. at Zaranyika village in Murewa – that the but it’s dangerousbecause people in army’s presence was a great source of rural areas will have a polling station at “We are fighting against cowards, people discomfort. “Participants in Murehwa are the headman’s house who is a Zanu PF who have no support from anyone. Zanu concerned by the presence of the military person,” he said. PF is a party that garners its vote through and feel it is a ploy by Zanu-PF officials intimidation and violence. We are very to instill fear in the general populace’’ Hon. Chamisa said that the Human Right powerful as a mass, but we will only Crisis Coalition said in a statement to the Bill, though it is needed, must address know when each one of us stands up and media. the previous violence and seek truth speaks their mind,” said Mukoyi. and reconciliation. He said Zanu PF Murewa district, near Harare, is one of wanted all the cases of political violence, The Harare province Women’s Assembly several political flashpoints that have intimidation and arson committed by its chairperson said Ronia Bunjira said witnessed political violence in the last members to be shelved and ignored. women continued to be victims of Zanu decade as Zanu-PF continues to fight PF’s violence. to keep its support in rural areas. MDC provincial treasurer Shepherd Jani Hon. Willias Madzimure, the Harare “How can a woman, my age be capable was, among scores of people who were Province Secretary and Kambuzuma MP of killing a police officer, what does it abducted and murdered in the area in said violence defeated all the efforts for mean? Women have been victims of Zanu 2008. This happened after Zanu PF Hon. Nelson Chamisa, the national “How can we ignore a wound that development that the MDC is grappling PF’s violence and intimidation because experienced a surge in the support of organising secretary has challenged continues to grow by the day? We need with in the inclusive government, and every child you see was born of a woman. the MDC and massive losses which saw Robert Mugabe to walk the talk on to heal that wound. The war of liberation urged the people to defend themselves So this is the time that we all take our two parliamentary seats sway allegiance violence. had a lot of scars for the people but no from the unscrupulous Zanu PF youths. position and deliver the real change we away from Mugabe for the first time since national healing of any sort took place; sought from the onset,” she said. 1980. “This violence must stop. Mugabe said the Gukurahundi has its own wounds “Why should you pay the Chipangano there should be peace, but that call for that need healing; the 2005 operation youths? You are giving those youths a The provincial report back rally was held Crisis Coalition programmes manager peace should migrate from his lips and Murambatsvina had casualties; the 2008 dollar, yet they are not the council. When in Kuwadzana 4 open space to allow Pedzisai Ruhanya said villagers continued stop contradictions. Violence must stop sham elections caused a further rift among you cry over the failure by the city to for feedback to the community on what to be concerned by the presence of and this demon of beating up people the people. How can these chapters be do certain developmental projects, you the MDC was doing in government, the army in their villages. “Generally, should not continue. But for it to stop, closed when they have been opened? forget that you are paying thugs and parliament and council. sentiments from the communities all over we need to pray. Zanu PF believes not the council. This has got to end and the country where we have visited so inChipangano, but we are on total promise “We can not allow Zanu PF to get away it begins with you. You have to defend As Hon Chamisa was speaking, far are that people do not want the army and believe in Chirangano,” Chamisa said with the atrocities, we need the truth to yourselves. I am not preaching violence, Zimbabweans in the rural areas told the to participate in elections as they did in at a rally in Kuwadzana on Sunday. be told and justice to take its course,” he but I am just saying do you smile at a Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition that they 2008,” Ruhanya told ZimOnline. said. snake when it gets into your house?” Hon wanted soldiers to be removed from the “We have the Human Rights Bill where Madzimure said. countryside during elections, fearing that In the dry and drought-prone Buhera Zanu PF is saying let bygones be bygones Another bill before parliament seeks to they could be intimidated into voting for South constituency, a known army but you can’t say those who raped, torched regulate the conduct and management of The youth and women assembly Robert Mugabe, the preferred choice for officer is said to be demanding Zanu PF people’s houses and killed should be let elections and ammend the Electoral Act. representatives urged the people to the country’s top security brass. membership cards as a pass to access food free. We want a proper truth and national register as voters so that when an election hand outs. Crisis coalition is carrying reconciliation process and people have to He said the parliamentarians are against is announced they are able Hundreds of army personnel are currently out a countrywide outreach programme be asked why they killed, why they stole a clause in the Electoral Amendment to cast their votes for change. deployed in the countryside and although in marginalised communities to gauge people’s property, why they raped.” Bill that requires voter registration to be the Minister of Defence Emmerson how ready they are in voter education, polling station based as it exposes people Harare province Youth Assembly Mnangagwa has in the past defended registration as well as constitution making The MDC is going to oppose the bill if to the unwanted acts of political violence. chairperson, Stewart Mukoyi said the their presence, saying they would be on process ahead of possible election next Zanu PF wants it to go without taking youth must be prepared to support, defend official duty, critics say they are used year. care of the people’s concerns. He said the MPs from the MDC are not and protect the people’s vote. by Mugabe’s Zanu PF to cow the rural going to support this clause as it creates population into voting for the former

3 In March 2009, the whole country was shocked when a resident of Harare was shot and injured as police fought running battles with parishioners who wanted to worship in Kunonga - Zanu PF’s the Anglican Cathedral. After a while Canon Karanda buried Chad Gandiya was ordained Bishop of the MDC supporters, relatives and friends Diocese of Harare and Bakare was able to go last week converged at Warren Hills back into his deserved retirement. Cemetery in Harare for the burial unholy survival plan by Pius Wakatama In July 2009, High Court Judge, Justice Ben of MDC founder member, Diamond Church and dethroned him in January, 2008. Hlatshwayo ruled in favour of Kunonga in Karanda. Some ill-informed or misguided people Kunonga did not accept his dethronement with the property dispute. The newly consecrated refer to a split in the Anglican Church with humility. Instead, he decided to form his own Bishop Gandiya immediately appealed that followers aligning themselves to one diocese church. ruling in the Supreme Court. Over a year later Karanda, 37, died last Sunday after a led by Bishop Chad Gandiya and others to Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku shocked short illness. He was the first Youth another led by Bishop Nolbert Kunonga. Kunonga, like all Zimbabweans, knew that the world by upholding Hlatshwayo’s ruling Assembly secretary for security. Others talk and write about there now being a Mugabe, hated homosexuality. He, therefore, granting Kunonga control over all Anglican Kunonga faction and a Gandiya faction in the announced that he was breaking away from assets in Harare. Anglican Church. the Anglican Church because it condoned The MDC deputy national chairperson, homosexuality. This was, of course a blatant After the Chidyausiku ruling “all hell broke Hon. Morgen Komichi described There is no such thing. The truth is that lie. The Anglican Church was left with loose,” as the saying goes. Kunonga, with the Karanda as a fearless fighter for real Kunonga, who was Bishop of Harare, rebelled no option but to excommunicate him and help of the police, violently seized control against the Church, was kicked out and consecrate retired Bishop Sebastian Bakare to of church properties including schools, change. formed his own church which can never be an replace him. churches, orphanages, rectories. Priests, Anglican church. In Zimbabwe there is today nuns and teachers have been evicted from “In Zimbabwe there is no democratic one Anglican Church, which has so far proved Kunonga left the Church with about 50 their homes and workplaces and have been freedom, no freedom of association, to be very united. Officially it is known as the followers to form what he calls the Anglican replaced by suspected Zanu PF faithfuls Anglican Church of the Province of Central Church of the Province of Zimbabwe. It would without any training at all. Kunonga has been we have no well equipped hospitals, Africa – which covers Zambia, Botswana, have been more realistic if he had called it the busy ordaining priests with no theological schools, no better roads and there is Malawi and Zimbabwe. Mbuya Nehanda Church of Zimbabwe. background at all. high unemployment. These are the Hon. Komichi castigated the police When Kunonga was elected Bishop of the He refused to accept his dismissal and insisted Some of the properties, including churches, issues that Diamond died fighting for. commissioner general, Augustine Diocese of Harare in 1997, he was a strong that he was still bishop of Harare and that have been turned into businesses and brothels. Zanu PF supporter, who hero- worshiped all church properties belonged to him. Most Hardly a day goes by without some newspaper Chihuri and the police for not taking President Robert Mugabe. Anglicans saw “That is the war that Diamond was any action against Zanu PF hooligans Church members refused to support him, even headline screaming about some outrageous fighting for and he will remain a nothing wrong about this since the church some leading Zanu PF supporters in and out and unbecoming act by Kunonga. In actual who are terrorising innocent people was composed of people supporting different of government. Kunonga, however, had the fact, by his actions, he has proved that he has pillar of the MDC and the people of especially in Harare. political parties. However, their support for support of President Mugabe for it was he who conclusively proved that he is neither a bishop Zimbabwe. Diamond had a vision to him turned into dismay for he immediately had administered the oath of office to Mugabe nor a Christian. went about “decolonizing” the Church by see a better Zimbabwe for everyone” The national organising secretary, Hon. after the questionable 2008 presidential re-run said Hon. Komichi. preaching hatred against whites. which was boycotted by Morgan Tsvangirai Kunonga is not acting in isolation. True, he Nelson Chamisa said the party was because of violence. The dethronement of is greedy for wealth and power but he is also He even removed plaques from the Anglican Kunonga might, therefore, have led some part of a grand plan by the powers that be to concerned over the high number of its Cathedral walls of those who founded and Hon. Komichi said Zanu PF was to cadres who were dying in the fight for to question Mugabe’s own legitimacy as control the whole organized Church - from the blame for Karanda’s death as he was contributed to the building of the cathedral President. traditional missionary-founded denominations real change from injuries sustained because they were “white colonialists”. In to the indigenous apostolic groups. a victim of Zanu PF and State security from Zanu PF and State security agents’ fact, he was attempting to turn the Church into When Bishop Bakare assumed his duties at agents assault on several occasions attacks. a Zanu PF supporting political institution. This the Anglican Cathedral in Harare, Kunonga What Kunonga and his allies are doing makes since he joined the MDC in 1999. was at a time when other Christian leaders, retaliated by unleashing violence against a lot of sense, warped as it may be. Eighty notably, Bishop Pius Ncube of the Roman Anglican worshipers. In this he was assisted percent of Zimbabweans are professing At the time of his death, Karanda was Catholic Church were criticising Mugabe’s by Zanu PF thugs and the police. Worshipers Christians. That is a decisive vote in any He said Karanda was arrested on working as the personal assistant government for its human rights excesses. were barred from entering Church buildings. political contest. Kunonga is not motivated by several occasions on various trumped- Lay-leaders and priests were arrested and religious or spiritual fervour. He is just a key to Hon. Gift Chimanikire. Hon. In 2003, the Zanu PF government gave up charges. On two occasions, Chimanikire is a member of the beaten. actor in a clever and vicious, but misguided, Karanda and other MDC youths were Kunonga a 1,630-acre farm with a seven- political strategy. In Zimbabwe the Anglican MDC National Executive Committee, bedroom house, worth over $1 million as a A court ruling by Justice Rita Makarau Church was regarded as dangerous because of dumped by the State security agents at Southerton MP and the deputy minister reward for his efforts in promoting the party. determined that the two groups should share its independence and influence as well as its Gonarezhou Game Reserve in Chiredzi of Mines and Mining Development. It had been confiscated from its white owner the church buildings by worshipping at umbilical connection to the hated British. All and at the Border Gezi Youth Training without compensation. different times until a final determination by that had to be broken through the only method Centre in Mt Darwin. However, on both the High Court. After the ruling Kunonga they know, which is violence. Meanwhile, Chitungwiza Provincial Church leaders rebuked Kunonga for continued to harass Anglican worshippers occasions they managed to escape and Security officer, Keriam Hombore died preaching partisan politics from the pulpit. and one day even physically attacked Bishop Bishop Gandiya was brutalised by thugs come back to Harare. His response was to pour scorn on them. There Bakare. The police continued to support and in his own home and robbed of his laptop, on Saturday after a short inllness at was nothing they could do. They decided that assist him in violation of the court ruling. money and cell phone at gunpoint. The arrest Karanda Hospital in Centenary. he was not fit to be a Bishop of the Anglican and persecution of Anglican priests and church leaders has also increased with savage intensity. However, in the midst of all this confusion and suffering, the bishop said he was encouraged by the faith, commitment and Real change is possible when conditions are good - Sitemere courage of his Anglican Church followers.

The recent presidential polls in Zambia blowing and as such, we are almost desire for freedom. This time we There is need for resilience – let us pull a serve to illustrate the fact that real change there. All genuine party cadres must are saying no to violence,” he said. leaf from what happened in Zambia,” said can be attained if elections are conducted stand up and be counted. Our main Provincial secretary and Masvingo Urban Hon. Matutu. Two MDC activists granted in a free and fair manner, MDC provincial goal is to bring real change to the MP Hon. Tongai Matutu thanked villagers bail at the High Court leaders said on Saturday. people of Zimbabwe. We are talking of in Zaka for showing bravery in the face He urged party members to food and jobs for the people of Zimbabwe. of relentless victimisation from Zanu PF renounce bickering and in- fighting within the structutres. Two MDC members who were arrested on The Masvingo provincial chairperson, political misfits. 7 September on false charges of murdering Wilstaff Sitemere told hundreds of party “Above all nobody should monopolise a police officer in Glen View in May have supporters at Chipanza Business Centre, the liberation war because many He said the focus of the MDC was to finish “There is no point for us to be involved been granted a US$300 bail each at the High Zaka East that the MDC was determined people participated in the struggle the struggle for democracy and real change. in energy – sapping battles against Court. to end years of dictatorship under Zanu against the settler regime,” said fellow party members. We should not Sitemere. “Our message is clear .We have a nurse and keep grudges against our Kerina Dewa, the Harare provincial PF autocrats bent on monopolising the secretary for National Healing and Memory liberation struggle. common purpose of defeating Zanu PF fellow cadres. Let us focus on party objectives. There is no room for cynical Ncube, another activist, were granted bail by He denounced violence and in the next election. I am here to Justice Joseph Musakwa. He added the MDC should focus on reminded villagers that Zaka was the preach the message of finishing the talk and pessimism in our party,” he said. its long pursued goal of defeating hub of the struggle for democracy struggle. All senators, MPs, councillors Of the 26 arrested activists, 19 have so far Robert Mugabe and Zanu PF in Masvingo province. and party members must speak The MP for Zaka East, Hon. Festus Dumbu, been granted bail. Seven are still locked through a democratic process. “Zaka is the conduit of the struggle one language – that of winning the Zaka Central MP Hon. Harrison Mudzuri, up. Those in remand prison are; Clr “Let us look at what is happening for political emancipation. Many forthcoming elections. Let us look at Hon. Tachiona Mharadza Chiminya of Madzokere, Rebecca Mafukeni, Yvonne around us .The winds of change are people were murdered here for their Michael Sata the new Zambian president. Masvingo West and Women’s Assembly Musarurwa, Stanford Maengahama, Lazarus provincial chairperson Judith Muzhavazhi Maengahama, Stanford Mangwiro and Phineas Nhatarikwa. “He fought tirelessly to win the presidency. attended the rally. Masvingo celebrates good CDF news Masvingo – Legislators from the MDC sinking of 10 boreholes in the area. here are reflecting excellence in their respective constituencies through “We were grossly affected by cholera effective utilisation of the Constituency in 2008 and we have put in place Development Fund (CDF). measures to avoid loss of life through facilitating the sinking of 10 boreholes. In Zaka North constituency, Hon. Ernest The boreholes were drilled in wards 17, Mudavanhu purchased five generators 22, 23, 24 and 33 respectively. for clinics in his constituency. “The total cost per borehole was The generators will go a long way in US$5000 and we are happy because in making up for the erratic power supplies each of these wards two protected water due to load shedding. wells were sunk. We further facilitated the refurbishment of a classroom block “We purchased five generators for the at Muchokwa primary school in Ward rural clinics as a way of alleviating 23,” said Hon. Dumbu. the shortage of electricity at the respective heath institutions,” said Hon. Hon. Harrison Mudzuri of Zaka Central Mudavanhu. said it was fundamental to improve the education facilities – hence he In addition, Hon. Mudavanhu supplied facilitated the painting of classroom Early childhood development child sits on one of the chairs donated under the CDF in cement to 42 schools. Repairs to blocks at 13 schools in the constituency. Hatcliff Those who have names of perpetrators of violence in your constituencies classrooms and administration blocks feel free to phone or write to are under way at the respective schools. “We are constructing two bridges in MDC Information and Publicity department. the constituency plus an ECP block Honourable Ransome Makamure said Telephone: 04-770708 In Zaka West Constituency, Hon. Festus Mugodhi and Mushwai schools were Email: [email protected] at Muchechetere schools, “said Hon. Dumbu said shortage of safe drinking Mudzuri. electrified under the CDF project. He Postal Address: Harvest House, 4th Floor, added that renovations were underway 44 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Harare. water was a cause for concern in his constituency hence he facilitated the Meanwhile in Gutu East Constituency at Chingombe High School.

MDC Information & Publicity Department, Harvest House, 44 Nelson Mandela Ave, Harare, Zimbabwe • Tel: +263 4 770 708 www.mdc.co.zw