Zim clamps down on Valentine marchers
2013-02-15 22:01
Special Report
Zimbabwe's Zanu-PF party is mulling over a special congress at which top vacant positions will be filled and the succession of President Robert Mugabe would be decided, according to a report.
Harare - A women's activism group says Zimbabwean police
used tear gas and baton charged to disperse Valentine's Day marchers, herding
195 people into a police precinct.
Twenty-five were later treated for injuries, including
broken teeth.
The Women of Zimbabwe Arise leader Jenni Williams said on
Friday all but one - accused of indecent exposure - were released without
charge.
The group traditionally marks Valentine's Day with
marches in Harare and Bulawayo, giving out red roses as a symbol of peace and
love in the troubled nation.
Williams said protesters marched to government buildings
to peacefully voice concerns on flaws in a proposed new constitution over
women's rights.
Amnesty International, in a statement, said continuing
attacks by police on Zimbabwean human rights defenders cast doubt on the
country's ability to hold credible polls.
- SAPA
