Zimbabwe Police today arrested activist and leader of #Tajamuka, Promise Mkwananzi for allegedly inciting violent clashes between the police and vendors in Harare yesterday.
Mkwananzi was nabbed soon after holding a press conference where he called on the police and the government to stop beating and harassing vendors.
The police and vendors have for almost a week now been engaged in cat and mouse chase which turned violent after the informal traders retaliated, throwing missiles at the cops yesterday.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) have deployed legal advisors to look into the case.
“In Harare, ZLHR is offering emergency legal support services to pro-democracy campaigner Promise Mkwananzi, who was arrested by ZRP officers at a media briefing in Harare,” said ZLHR in a statement.
Zimbabwean government recently made an order for vendors to move off the streets in the wake of a cholera outbreak that has so far claimed 33 lives from the 7919 cases reported.
During his press conference, Mkwananzi called on the government to immediately cease the use of force against civilians.
“We encourage the government to enter into negotiations with the vendors and all other relevant stakeholders to find an amicable and lasting solution to the vending crisis in Zimbabwe,” he said.
The firebrand activist accused the President Emmerson Mnangagwa led government of being illegal saying it will not last for more than two years.
“We reiterate our resolution not to recognize a government that came to power by force and foul. It is our strong contention that such a government should not last more than two years in office. We the citizens shall peacefully mobilize ourselves and demand a return to legality and legitimacy,” said Mkwananzi.
