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Bindura residents call for implementation of reforms
Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition
November 29, 2010
Residents of
Chipadze, Bindura on the 20th of November 2010 called for the implementation
of reforms agreed upon by the inclusive government ahead of possible
elections in 2011. This was said during a theatre discussion forum
held by The Coalition at Chipadze Hall where participants raised
concerns over the resurgence of political violence in Mashonaland
Central. Participants further highlighted that elections should
come after the passing of a new constitution, carrying out of the
national healing process and the stabilisation of the political
environment.
The discussion
followed a performance of the election drama, Simudza Mureza (Lift
up the flag) by the Savanna
Trust drama group.
During discussions,
the Coalition conducted a review of the constitution making and
national healing processes. The following issues were raised;
Constitution
- It was noted
that people in Bindura did not participate freely as they were
forced to parrot party positions .
- Civic education
was inadequate as some participants at the outreach meetings were
unaware of constitutional matters
- There was
limited participation due to threats made by ZANU PF supporters
under 'Operation Chimumumu'
On the way forward
it was highlighted that despite the reservations participants had
towards the constitution making process, the process should proceed
as they felt that the content of the proposed constitution would
be better than the Lancaster House constitution which Zimbabweans
are currently using.
National
healing
-
National healing should take place at the community level while
the government should consult communities on how they want the
process carried out. It was noted that in the Mashonaland Central
province, the Organ on National Healing conducted national healing
meetings with the Governor and Members of Parliament without involving
communities.
- Perpetrators
of political violence should be arrested to guard against future
human rights abuses.
After the forum,
two female participants informed The Coalition that they were afraid
to participate during public events as they feared for their safety.
They noted that during the meeting they identified two state security
agents whom they accused of instigating violence in the area together
with youths from surrounding farms.
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