Who is responsible?
A preliminary analysis of pre-election violence
in Zimbabwe
June 20, 2000


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Bases
It must be stressed that the information about alleged bases derives from secondary sources. However, in some instances a number of people have made identical or similar allegations about particular bases and the identity of ruling party officials allegedly involved. Additionally, monitors have independently confirmed some these allegations.

Mashonaland West
Karoi
The Zanu (PF) offices in the high-density suburb of Chikangwe are being used to house a militia who chant slogans and sing all night, bringing opposition members for beating there. In front of the offices is a small improvised grave which has written on it: "Rest in peace, Morgan Tsvangirai."

Another camp has been established at the Magunje growth point, behind the shop of the Zanu (PF) parliamentary candidate, Mark Madiro, who is said to be in charge of the militia. This group assaulted a nun travelling on a bus which had made a stop at Magunje. MP Madiro is also reported to have ferried youths to an operational base in Mudzimu Township.

There are reports of torture being carried out at the Zanu (PF) offices in Kanzangarare Township.

Kariba
The militia for the area are still said to be under the command of war veteran Rex Jesus, although he is in prison. He is said to be issuing orders from his police cell with the knowledge of the member in charge.

It is alleged that there is a torture centre at the hotel belonging to the husband of a prominent local Zanu (PF) member.   TOP