Zimbabwe Opposition Leader Chamisa Attacked By Ruling Party Thugs

MASVINGO – MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa’s convoy was attacked in Charumbira, Masvingo province, injuring at least five people.

The party said at least five officers were treated for injuries on Monday after the horrific incident.

MDC Alliance spokesman Fadzayi Mahere blamed crowds “hired” by Zanu PF for the attack.

Chamisa was unharmed in the attack against a team ahead of him.

Mahere said in a statement: “More than 200 youths mobilized by Zanu PF violently attacked President Chamisa’s convoy and forward team as they traveled to a meeting with community leaders in Charumbira.

“They stoned cars, barricaded roads with burning logs and attacked members of our team who are now hospitalized.

“Cars were seen transporting the rented crowd and coordinating the attacks as violent thugs held up printed signs.”

Videos and images shared by the MDC Alliance showed at least one vehicle, a Toyota Fortuner used by Chamisa security assistants, with shattered windows and damaged body panels.

Dozens of people holding placards denouncing the “sanctions” blocked a dirt country road.

“This political violence inflicted on President Chamisa’s delegation is a matter of grave concern and a clear act of desperation by a bankrupt and illegitimate failed regime,” Mahere said.

“They fear the unstoppable popular support for President Chamisa and the broad coalition forming in every village and town to win over Zimbabwe for change.”

The MDC Alliance says Chamisa is engaging citizens, students and leaders to build a broad alliance for the 2023 elections.

For consultative meetings, he travels through the 10 provinces of the country.

Youth Secretary Ostallos Siziba claimed the attack on Chamisa’s aides was an “assassination attempt” to prevent him from “resoundingly winning the 2023 election”.

“The attack on the president is a clear assassination program by Zanu PF which unleashes its militia to attack the president’s car directly,” Siziba said.

“The president’s program to mobilize six million votes is what led us to Masvingo. Our national theme for the year is Citizen Convergence for Change, so let’s unite with progressive citizens.

“Rural people are very aware that Nelson Chamisa is our only hope for total transformation in this country. Zanu PF unleashes his last tool on the shelf, which is violence. We are prepared and aware, but we made sure the president was safe.”