MASVINGO — Zimbabwe’s opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has been granted permission to hold a campaign rally in Masvingo South by the police, but with a set of strict restrictions.
This development signals an uphill battle for the party as they strive to connect with voters and gain support ahead of the upcoming Zimbabwe elections set for 23 August 2023.
The approval for the rally, scheduled for July 8, 2023, near Nyajena Primary School, came in the form of a letter from the Officer Commanding ZRP Masvingo Central District dated July 6, 2023.
However, the CCC will have to adhere to numerous conditions outlined under the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act Chapter 11:23.
Among the restrictions imposed by the police, the CCC has been instructed not to provide transportation for attendees to the venue.
They are also prohibited from chanting party slogans, singing, shouting, or engaging in any form of aggressive demonstration.
Plateless vehicles are not allowed in their convoy.
In addition, the opposition party has been warned against intimidating bystanders or non-participants, obstructing roads, and spreading hateful or defamatory information.
They are required to cooperate with all government agencies.
Furthermore, the CCC must ensure adequate sanitation facilities and strictly adhere to the scheduled dates and times.
This decision comes on the heels of several challenges faced by the CCC in obtaining police clearance for their rallies.
In a recent incident in Chiredzi, eight CCC members were arrested for allegedly defying a ban on their gathering at Tshovani Stadium.
The confrontation between opposition supporters and the police arose when law enforcement agents informed the opposition that the venue had already been booked for a State event on the same day.
Zimbabwe opposition face tough times
In another setback for the CCC, the police have denied the Nelson Chamisa-led party permission to launch their election campaign in Bindura.
Citing concerns related to security and public health, the police argued that the selected venue, a vacant plot of land in Brockdale, lacked essential infrastructure such as roads, water, and sewer facilities.
Moreover, the CCC’s notification was deemed untimely, which was considered a violation of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act.
The police expressed concern over the potential transmission of diseases and violence at the proposed venue.
They also pointed out the difficulties in accessing the location during emergencies.
The CCC was advised to secure an alternative site that complies with regulatory requirements.
The CCC continues to face challenges in obtaining permits and complying with strict rules, posing a significant obstacle for the party in reaching out to voters and gaining their support.
These restrictions could hinder their ability to effectively campaign and connect with the electorate in the lead-up to the elections.
In response to the limitations imposed by the police, a representative from the CCC stated, “We are disappointed with the stringent conditions placed on our rally. We believe in the democratic right to freedom of assembly and expression.
“These restrictions curtail our ability to engage with the electorate and deliver our message effectively. Nevertheless, we remain committed to our cause and will explore all available options to ensure our voices are heard.”
The CCC’s struggle to secure permission for their rallies and the subsequent restrictions highlight the challenges faced by opposition parties in Zimbabwe as they strive to engage with voters and participate in the democratic process.
