By a Correspondent
POLICE say they are investigating the political violence that occurred in Matobo district, Matabeleland South at the weekend ahead of Saturday’s council by-elections.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said members of the ruling Zanu-PF and opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) reported cases of political violence in the district.
There have been counter-accusations between Zanu-PF and CCC over who was behind the weekend political violence.
Asst Comm Nyathi said culprits would be accounted for.
“The ZRP is seized with reports of violent skirmishes which occurred in Matobo on 16 October 2022. Reports of assault and violence have been received from both Zanu-PF and Citizen Coalition for Change members,” said Nyathi.
“Investigations are now in progress with a view of accounting for all suspects involved in violence. The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges political parties and supporters to be responsible and shun all forms of violence.”
Two by-elections will be held in Matabeleland South on Saturday, one in Insiza and another in Matobo.
Zanu-PF’s Frederick Siwela will face off with Sindiso Ngwenya from CCC and Liberty Nyirongo from Zapu in the Matobo by-election.
The seat fell vacant after the death of Zanu-PF councillor Tom Moyo.
In Insiza, Zanu-P’s Daniel Dube battles it out with Augustine Gumede from CCC.
The seat became vacant following the death of Zanu-PF councillor Lawrence Maphosa
