THE DAY THE GLOVES CAME OFF Today the system dropped its mask. The facade of lawfulness ended. We assembled in the park as usual. We had notified police of our intention to do a short march in town. They employed delaying tactics, but we were determined to exercise our rights enshrined in the Constitution. Whilst we were waiting in the park for everyone to arrive, a large group of police in riot gear approached us. Not the usual four or five who keep an eye on us, a large group over 20, maybe 30 or more. They quickly surrounded us as their leader addressed us. Within a few moments, they were beating us with their batons and chasing us out of the park. They targeted Itai specifically, and Tich and Tafadzwa who remained close to him were beaten as well. The last I saw of Itai at that point through the legs of the riot police, he was surrounded, blows raining down on him. As we were chased and regrouping in town, they carried on beating him into unconsciousness. When our lawyer from ZLHR, Kennedy Masiye, arrived at the scene, they assaulted him as well, breaking glasses and watch, and injuring him. They went as far as to handcuff Itai. They also beat him when he was unconscious. All this they did to unarmed Zimbabwean citizens, who not only broke no law but exercised their constitutional rights! Thankfully, a supporting organization came to our aid and provided medical help. Itai is currently in a Harare hospital recovering. The last time I spoke to him today he was back to his old self, energetically and animatedly discussing with us. I had no doubt, but now I know it for sure, having witnessed it: this system operates on violence and aggression. The law, which ordinary Zimbawbeans hold in such high regard, is merely paper to them to use or discard at whim. We knew going into this the risks we were taking. We face them of our own choice as free people. Today I tell you I am determined to see this through. The future of Zimbabwe, and the love of this country that caused me to join this movement, cannot be diminished by barbarism. This is exactly the sort of behaviour we want to see disappear from our beloved nation. I long to see the day our police serve and protect the people.
Posted on: Thu, 06 Nov 2014 16:16:59 +0000
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