The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) reported the abduction and forced poisoning of its member, Sylvester Chiundiza, in Epworth on Wednesday. According to the CCC, Chiundiza was captured by unidentified individuals around 5 pm, subjected to detention and torture, and later abandoned at midnight.
Promise Mkwananzi, the CCC spokesperson, confirmed that Chiundiza was hospitalised following the assault. “We attempted to file a police report, but the police declined, insisting Chiundiza should report personally. He is still receiving medical care,” Mkwananzi stated yesterday.
Efforts to contact Senior Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, for comments were unsuccessful.
This incident follows another disturbing case last month involving Tapfumaneyi Masaya, another CCC activist. Masaya, allegedly kidnapped by suspected state security agents in Mabvuku, was later found dead. The police are investigating his death as a murder case.
According to a report by Newsday, the CCC has repeatedly accused the ruling Zanu PF party of employing terror tactics against its members. In October, Takudzwa Ngadziore, a CCC legislator, was kidnapped and tortured. The perpetrators, although captured on camera, remain at large.
The CCC blames the Zanu PF party for orchestrating these abductions, allegations that the ruling party vehemently denies. However, the police’s apparent reluctance to investigate these incidents and their failure to apprehend the perpetrators have fueled speculation about state involvement.
Human rights organisations have strongly condemned these abductions and urged the Zimbabwean authorities to ensure the safety of all citizens. The international community has also voiced concern over these events, calling on the Zimbabwean government to adhere to democratic principles and respect fundamental human rights.
