The Citizens Coalition for Change has taken police to the High Court seeking an order to allow the party to hold a star rally in Marondera as Zimbabwe prepares for the forthcoming council and parliamentary by-elections.
Police had indicated that they were given a short notice by the party to hold its rally in Marondera and as a result they did not comply with some provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA).
CCC deputy spokesperson, Ostallos Siziba, said police informed the party that they violated MOPA provisions as they submitted late their request to engage in vehicle parades before attending the Marondera rally. “But we are hopeful that the courts will address this issue today so that we will hold the rally.”
In a tweet, CCC spokesperson, Fadzai Mahere, said, “I can’t wait for #YellowSaturday in MARONDERA tomorrow where our Change Champion in Chief, President @nelsonchamisa will inspire hope & a thirst for change for the citizens in Mash East! As was said yesterday, every citizen has a duty to ACT for change! Let’s all play our part!”
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi was unreachable for comment as he was not responding to calls on his mobile phone.
Reports say the CCC’s rally also scheduled for Binga has not been given a nod by the police who are citing similar violations of MOPA.
Party spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere, said their rallies will go ahead as scheduled in Marondera, Binga, Tsholotsho and Beitbridge following meetings they held with the police.