Police in Harare have prohibited the opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) from holding a meeting at a private venue, citing concerns over potential protests in the central business district (CBD).
The UZA, led by Elisabeth Valerio, the only female presidential candidate in the 2023 election, had planned to hold a gathering on September 29, 2024, at the Bronte Hotel on Baines Avenue. The party had informed the police of its plans in advance, as required by law.
However, in a letter dated September 27, 2024, Chief Superintendent M. Mumanyi, Officer Commanding Harare Central District, informed UZA that the meeting could not go ahead due to the risk of demonstrations in the CBD.
Valerio criticized the decision, accusing the police of being biased. She pointed out that a ZANU PF affiliate was allowed to hold a political launch at the City Sports Centre without facing similar restrictions. Valerio remarked:
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“What threat does UZA pose at a private venue with peaceful participants? Meanwhile, a ZANU PF affiliate is freely hosting an event without any concerns about protests.”
She further expressed frustration over the inequality faced by opposition parties, particularly following the recent National Multi-Stakeholder Post-Election Review Conference, where issues of fairness were raised. According to Valerio, opposition gatherings are routinely blocked under the pretext of “security concerns,” while ruling party affiliates face no such hurdles.
Under Zimbabwe’s Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPO), political parties are required to notify the police at least five days before holding any public meeting. Failure to do so can result in penalties, including fines or imprisonment for up to one year.
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