ZUJ demands MDC-T apology after journalist attack

The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists, ZUJ, has condemned weekend attacks on The Zimbabwe Mail photographer Watson Ofumeli while covering a rally addressed by MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai.

Ofumeli was attacked by rowdy MDC-T youths while carrying out his duty covering the rally.

"ZUJ would like to condemn in very strong terms the increasing levels of intolerance against journalists," ZUJ secretary general Foster Dongozi said.

"This comes after The Zimbabwe Mail photo-journalist, Watson Ofumeli was attacked by hoodlums at an MDC T rally over the weekend which was addressed by former Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai.

"Such unacceptable levels of intolerance especially by political parties may soon lead the Union to seriously consider advising its members to boycott assignments which may endanger their lives."

Dongozi said ZUJ was demanding a formal apology from MDC-T leadership.

"The Union awaits a formal apology from those responsible for the callous act of aggression," he said.

MDC-T has been rocked by violence with party youths at the same weekend attacking party deputy treasure Elton Mangoma for calling on Tsvangirai to step down from the party presidency.

The youths also wanted to attack party secretary general Tendai Biti who escaped by jumping into Tsvangirai's vehicle.

Meanwhile, Dongozi said the union wanted to protest to How Mine Football Club, after its player, Morris Kadzola threatened to "deal" with a Southern Eye correspondent after being exposed for failing to reimburse an alleged debt.

"We implore his employers to school him on basic issues of zero tolerance to violence, respect and professionalism. An injury to one is an injury to all," Dongozi said.