Tensions flare after election violence in Makoni South
After a contentious by-election in Makoni South Ward 23, tensions between political supporters boiled over into violence. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party and Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (Zanu PF) had been competing in the election, which Zanu PF ultimately won.
According to police, after the results were announced, a group of four CCC members allegedly attacked Zanu PF supporters who were celebrating their victory. Patrick Sagandira, a CCC legislator, and three others were arrested the next day in connection with the assaults. They appeared in court and are awaiting a bail decision.
Three of the eight reported victims from the violence remain hospitalized at Rusape General Hospital for their injuries. One woman said she suffered a serious beating at the hands of Sagandira and another CCC member, Teddy Chipere. As they attacked her, she said they blamed her for Zanu PF and President Mnangagwa’s successes in the area’s past elections.
Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident and arrests, but details remain scarce as the legal proceedings continue.
