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War over government farming inputs in Hurungwe
Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights)
February 08, 2012

ZimRights on Tuesday 7 February learnt with great shock of both structural and physical wars over the government farming inputs distribution programme in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West Province.

It came to the organization's attention that, ZANU PF hooligans have literally hijacked the programme to benefit party affiliates as well as using it as a mobilizing tool ahead of the expected elections. Monday, 6 February fertilizer distribution at Magunje Stadium Point came as latest evidence confirming the politicization of the inputs. Reports are that two ZANU PF cadres, named as Darlington Mutemagawu and other only identified as Manyemebere were at the helm and in control of all the proceeds.

A number of MDC supporters were turned away from the gathering and told to get inputs from Tsvangirai and his donors, America and Britain. One of them identified as Chakanyuka is said to have been infuriated by the on-goings and decided to confront the corrupt giants culminating in violence.

Upon receiving the matter, the police from Magunje peace department led by an officer named as Madekutsikwa on Tuesday morning, 7 February are said to have pounced on Chakanyuka's home and accused him of inciting violence that resulted in disappearance of fertilizer bags. He is said to have spent Tuesday night behind bars on added allegations that he insulted the president and that he was not cooperating. The victim revealed that he had asked the police to notify his lawyer first, to which they were unprepared. He was released this afternoon on bail.

ZimRights is concerned with this kind of unprofessionalism on the art of the police. The manner in which the matter is said to have happened and handled was not fair. Denying a person access to such privileges on political grounds can be equated to abuse and torture. The police should have traced and addressed the source of the conflict. ZimRights is investigating the matter to find facts behind the story and is ready to take necessary steps for the liberties of the victim. We also appeal to the government, through the members of parliament for such constituencies to intervene and promote co-existence within their communities.

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