CCC MP Arrested on Assault Charges, Party Claims Political Targeting
Maureen Kademaunga, the CCC Member of Parliament for Sunningdale, was arrested yesterday on charges of attempted murder and malicious property damage.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Ms. Kademaunga’s arrest, along with two others. They are accused of attacking three complainants on August 23rd in Harare and burning a Toyota vehicle belonging to one of the victims, who is reported to be a Zanu PF candidate. Police allege the suspects used several vehicles to block the road before assaulting the group with various objects.
Ms. Kademaunga’s lawyer, Darlington Marange, maintains his client’s innocence of the charges. Meanwhile, the CCC has criticized the arrest, arguing Ms. Kademaunga and others who participated in the recent elections are facing politically motivated prosecution. In a statement, the party condemned the detention of their MP and said supporters of Nelson Chamisa and the CCC are facing intensified repression in the aftermath of the vote.
The case comes amid accusations that authorities are targeting CCC members following significant gains by the opposition in the August elections. Ms. Kademaunga will appear in court today to respond to the assault and property damage allegations.
