By Nyasha Chuma
The Nelson Chamisa led MDC Alliance has hit out at Zimbabwe Republic Police, accusing law enforcement agents of protecting “criminal elements” within Zanu PF by turning a blind eye on the injustices perpetrated against the opposition.
Police on Thursday alleged that members of the MDC Alliance are not co-operating with investigations into the attempted assassination of Chamisa and the political violence that took place on Monday, October 18.
“We wish to place on record the fact that a police report was made by our members led by Vice President Karenyi-Kore in the company of our Organizing Secretary, Hon Chibaya, our Deputy Secretary General, Hon Chimhini and Hon Mutseya. The report was recorded under RRB4124513. It was made in the presence of our lawyers. We are accordingly surprised that Police Spokesperson Paul Nyathi alleged to the press that he was unaware that a report had been made. His allegation is simply untrue,” said MDC Alliance spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere.
“The police sent forensic officers to inspect the vehicles and conduct a check on the number plates of the vehicles concerned. The police officers were given access to the vehicles and full cooperation. Our lawyers were present at all times. The officers took photographs and the ballistic team conducted their examination. Accordingly, we are surprised to learn of an alleged failure by us to co-operate communicated through the press. It is not true that we have no co-operated.”
“What troubles us is the fact that no investigations have commenced or arrests effected in respect of the actual perpetrators of the attempted assassination and political violence. Four days after video footage went viral of the perpetrators of the violence, why have no arrests have been effected? Why are the police allowing ZANU PF to erect illegal roadblocks and disturb the free movement of vehicles? Why are these thugs being allowed to search citizens who are going about their business? Why is ZANU PF being allowed to unlawfully bus in in excess of 300 thugs to our meetings with community leaders and harass and abuse our members? The descent into lawlessness and the breakdown of the rule of law call into question the independence of the police and their commitment to carry out their constitutional functions.”
Mahere called into “question the professionalism and independence of the Police who have actively worked against us in the past and throughout course of this citizen conversation tour. They have been taking instructions from Zanu PF thugs at roadblocks and shielding the perpetrators of violence committed against us. They have watched while we were being stoned and mobbed. Instead of ensuring the safety and security of persons and property in line with their constitutional imperative, they have either turned a blind eye or been complicit in the violence.”
