MDC-T MP and 14 protesters arrested over demos

15 National Electoral Reform Agenda (NERA) protestors including Movement for Democratic Change Member of Parliament, Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu, were arrested in Gwanda after police foiled a demonstration by opposition parties.

According to media reports, Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Philisani Ndebele could not be reached for comment yesterday but one of the participants and Gwanda Residents Association secretary general, Mr Bekezela Maduma Fuzwayo, confirmed that anti-riot police picked up 15 people near Pelandaba Stadium on Saturday.

"They were picked up near Pelandaba Stadium as they marched to the town centre from Phakama Shopping Centre where they had assembled.

"They were taken to Gwanda police station where they were detained for two hours. Among those picked up was MP Nomathemba Ndlovu. However, they were later released without being charged," said Mr Fuzwayo.

Those arrested were MP Ndlovu, Solani Moyo, former Gwanda executive mayor Maxwell Zinti Mnkandla's son Kukhanya, Hlangano Zwambila, Jonathan Mapingire, Velisiwe Nkomo, Gabriel Moyo, Cathrine Ncube, Edgar Ncube, Mandla Twala, Zimiso Sibanda, Alex Masendeke, Mqabuko Ndlovu, Regious Tlou and Mthabisi Mpofu.

The demonstrations were in defiance of a police ban on protests meant to protect infrastructure and the general public.