Senator demands justice over gukurahundi assault on Mahetshe learners

MATEBELELAND SOUTH Senator Nonhlanhla Mlotshwa has issued a scathing rebuke of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) following the brutal assault of pupils at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa during what was meant to be a crime awareness campaign.

Speaking during a Statement of National Interest in the Senate on Thursday, the visibly emotional Mlotshwa, who is also a resident of Mahetshe, called for the Minister of Home Affairs to take full responsibility and ensure that those involved are prosecuted.

"Fellow citizens, I stand before you today deeply alarmed by the recent incident at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, where police officers brutalised innocent children during what was supposed to be a crime awareness campaign," she said.

"It is unacceptable that toddlers and young learners are subjected to torture and inhumane treatment, especially in a nation committed to protecting its most vulnerable."

The incident occurred on May 21, 2025, when officers from the ZRP were invited by the school and its School Development Committee (SDC) to address a spate of alleged misbehaviour among pupils. However, the session reportedly turned violent, with officers beating several children without informing or securing consent from their parents.

According to investigations by CITE, the flashpoint was the alleged theft of US$20 from a teacher vending snacks at the school. This triggered the SDC and school officials to invite the police - not for education, but punishment.

Children were reportedly beaten for alleged misdeeds including dating, sexual conduct, bullying, petty theft, and failure to deliver school contributions like floor polish or civvies money.

Senator Mlotshwa warned that the incident is indicative of a broader culture of unchecked violence within the police force, particularly when it comes to vulnerable groups.

"The response from law enforcement has been dismissive, attempting to sweep this matter under the carpet and avoiding accountability," she said.

"I call upon the Minister of Home Affairs to demand immediate action. Police officers involved must be prosecuted for assault and a transparent investigation must be conducted without delay."

Some pupils were reportedly hospitalised, while many more remain psychologically traumatised.

The senator also questioned the complicity of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, demanding answers on how such abuse occurred within school premises.

"We must also hold the school authorities accountable for inviting law enforcement into a space meant for learning and development without safeguarding our children's welfare," she said.

Senate President Mabel Chinomona acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and directed the relevant ministers to urgently investigate and report back to Parliament.

Meanwhile, the Mahetshe community remains incensed. Parents, guardians, and civil society organisations have condemned the abuse and are calling for justice, warning that such violence erodes public trust in both the police and education systems.

"This is a wake-up call," said Senator Mlotshwa. "Our nation's integrity depends on protecting our children - and ensuring those who harm them face the full weight of the law."