Australia returnee says Zimbabwe police blocked his political party launch

A Zimbabwean who recently returned home after spending 15 years in Australia has accused authorities of blocking the launch of his newly formed political party, alleging that the move reflects continued restrictions on opposition political activities.

Benefit Chikomo said police in Masvingo prevented him from holding a rally that was scheduled for Saturday at Mucheke Stadium, where he intended to officially launch the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

According to Chikomo, he complied with all legal requirements by notifying the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo District Headquarters of the planned gathering last Friday. However, he said police contacted him on Wednesday and informed him that the event could not proceed.

"I notified the police last Friday of my intention to hold a rally at Mucheke Stadium on Saturday as prescribed by law. The letter was submitted on time to give them time to consider it, but they called me on Wednesday and advised me that the rally cannot continue," said Chikomo.

He said the rally was intended to mark the official launch of the PDP and the beginning of a nationwide membership recruitment campaign.

Chikomo alleged that the decision to block the event was politically motivated and accused the ruling party of using State institutions to frustrate opposition movements.

"This is a usual tactic being used by Zanu PF to deny other political actors space," he said.

The aspiring politician said his party has already attracted more than 600 members and established a 16-member interim leadership structure, which he currently heads.

Despite the setback, Chikomo said the party would continue its mobilisation efforts.

"We are not fazed by this move. We will continue to mobilise and recruit members. Our motive is to remove Zanu PF from power because Zimbabweans are suffering," he said.

Chikomo said his decision to leave Australia and return to Zimbabwe was driven by a desire to participate directly in the country's political affairs and contribute to efforts aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens.

"I was staying in Australia for the past 15 years, but I decided to come back to fight for the freedom of Zimbabweans," he said.

Efforts to obtain a comment from national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi were unsuccessful at the time of publication.