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WOZA activists released but two hospitalised
Violet Gonda, SW Radio Africa
December 01, 2006

http://www.swradioafrica.com/news011206/woza011206.htm

The arrested Women of Zimbabwe Arise and supporters were released into the custody of their lawyer on Friday but are expected to formally appear in court Monday. Two of those arrested, Magodonga Mahlangu and another woman called Sylvia, have been hospitalised as a result of injuries sustained at the hands of the police. Although they were assaulted on the day of the demonstration on Wednesday and despite showing serious signs of injuries the police kept the women in detention until Friday afternoon.

Speaking shortly after being released group coordinator Jenni Williams said; "None of the police officers who arrested us and beat us up so brutally wanted to come forward and make any statements that are necessary for us to be taken to court, so things dragged on and nothing was happening. The lawyer had prepared an urgent application to take us to court when I think the police realized they had no option but to release us and asked us to report to court on Monday."

She also said what brought the matter to a head was that the two activists, Mahlangu and Sylvia, had to be taken to hospital. Mahlangu, who is one of the WOZA leaders, was allegedly beaten across her back and fell down on the floor knocking her head on the day of the demonstration.

At least 36 activists were charged on Thursday under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

The activists were arrested Wednesday during the launch of their People's Charter in Bulawayo. WOZA said the Charter was a result of a yearlong countrywide consultation demanding social justice for all Zimbabweans. Ironically police used brutal force to disperse the group, as they were commemorating International Human Rights Defenders Day.

It's reported that baton stick wielding riot police descended on the peaceful gathering and started assaulting people to force them to disperse. At least 60 people including mothers with their babies were arrested on the day, although some of them were later released.

The arrested are accused of "participating in a public gathering with the intent to cause public disorder, breach of peace or bigotry."

Several others were left needing medical attention including an 18 month old baby and an elderly woman who had serious injuries.

When asked if it's wise to take children to these demonstrations Williams said the mothers say; "We have rights and this child needs a better future and I am sorry I have no one else to leave the child with and I must be allowed to exercise my right."

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