Woza activists languish in cells on allegation of splashing graffiti

The nine Women of Zimbabwe Arise (Woza) activists arrested on Monday for allegedly splashing graffiti material on roads in Bulawayo's western suburbs were still detained in police cells yesterday.

Their lawyer, Paul Moyo, said he did not know when they would be taken to court.

The activists were initially detained at West Commonage Police Station where they were being charged for defacing the roads with messages calling for the resignation of police Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri.

Some of the alleged offensive messages read: "Fire Chihuri, the partisan police commissioner", "Devolution for development", "We want separation of powers" and "We want education".

Those arrested include Vigilant Lunga, Violet Dube, Theresa Phiri, Catherine Dhliwayo, Eunice Moyo, Mpikelelo Moyo and Sibongile Lumbile, Miriam Ngcebetsha and Ottilia Dube.

"Yes, we located them yesterday (Tuesday) and one of them (Lumbile) appeared ill," Moyo said.

"I went to the (police) station again today (Wednesday) and the nine were still detained at around 11am.

"When I asked the police when the activists will be taken to court, they said they were yet to decide on what action to take against them."

He said police had refused to take Lumbile to hospital.
Woza co-leader Magodonga Mahlangu confirmed Lumbile's ill-health.

She also said the Woza members were only given food a day after their arrest.