MASVINGO — Two MDC-T activists from Gutu West had their huts torched by suspected Zanu PF members over the past two weeks in what the party suspects could be acts of political violence. Report by Tatenda Chitagu
MDC-T ward official Solomon Mudyazvivi allegedly lost valuable property after his three huts were burnt by suspected Zanu PF supporters on Monday night.
Prior to the incident, Zanu PF had held a rally in the area where war veterans allegedly threatened a repeat of the 2008 political violence.
A week before, another MDC-T activist from the same area Enock Makoke had his hut torched after he co-ordinated a party meeting.
Although Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Peter Zhanero refused to comment on the matter, Gutu West MP Noel Mandebvu (Zanu PF), confirmed the fire at Makoke’s homestead, but denied claims that it was politically-motivated.
“I do not know about the latest fire incident which you are talking about from Ward 1.
“I only know of the incident in Ward 29 which happened last week and I am at the scene right now,” Mandebvu said.
“But it will be premature to link the fires to politics. “These are thatched huts and many huts have been catching fire here.
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“It is only when the huts belong to MDC members that they cry foul and say there was politics at play. Do not rush to say it was Zanu PF. It is better you leave everything to the police so that they complete their investigations.”
He bemoaned violence, saying he does not condone it and wished the culprits be brought to book.
MDC-T provincial chairperson Wilstuff Sitemere said the affected families were staying in the open.
“They have no place to sleep, or food left,” he said.
“They need urgent support. The requirements range from all emergency support necessary for survival to tents for shelter, food and clothes.”
