After 15 Years In Australia, Zimbabwean Man “Blocked” From Launching Political Party In Masvingo

A Zimbabwean who returned home after 15 years in Australia says he is disappointed after police allegedly barred him from holding a rally to launch his new political party.

Benefit Chikomo, leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), said police in Masvingo stopped him from launching the party at Mucheke Stadium on Saturday.

Chikomo told Masvingo Mirror that he followed due process by notifying the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Masvingo District Headquarters, last Friday, but was told on Wednesday that the rally could not go ahead.

“I notified the police last Friday of my intention to hold a rally at Mucheke Stadium on Saturday as prescribed by law,” said Chikomo.

“The letter was submitted on time to give them time to consider it, but they called me on Wednesday and advised me that the rally cannot continue.

“He said the event was meant to officially launch his new political party and kick-start a national membership drive.

Chikomo accused the ruling party of deploying state institutions to suppress opposition politics.

“This is a usual tactic being used by ZANU-PF to deny other political actors space.”

He said his party already has more than 600 members and a 16-member interim leadership led by him.

“We are not fazed by this move. We will continue to mobilise and recruit members. Our motive is to remove ZANU-PF from power because Zimbabweans are suffering,” added Chikomo.

Chikomo stressed that he returned from Australia after 15 years “to fight for the freedom of Zimbabweans.”