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Protesters released in Zim
12/06/2007 13:53 - (SA)
Harare - Dozens of women protestors arrested in southern Zimbabwe this week have been released without charge, rights group Women of Zimbabwe Arise (Woza) said on Tuesday.
Around 150 Woza members taken in by police on Monday after they held a demonstration in Filabusi were released later in the day, according to a statement.
Police stopped recording their names after an hour, saying they were tired, the statement said.
Shirts and scarves belonging to the group were returned, but placards were confiscated.
The Filabusi arrests were just the latest in a string of confrontations between the authorities and Woza, which is highly critical of President Robert Mugabe's government.
Woza members, who are mostly - but not exclusively - women, want an end to unjust laws and to Zimbabwe's worsening economic crisis, marked by skyrocketing prices and growing shortages of basic goods like fuel and food.
Zimbabwe's annual inflation rate was 3 714% in April and there are predictions the rate for May could be as high as 4 500%.
Areas like Filabusi in Insiza district are particularly hard-hit by food shortages.
UN food agencies say many people in southern and western Zimbabwe will require food aid as early as next month.
While in custody, the Woza women told police and the local district administrator about their grievances, including unaffordable school fees and food shortages, the group's statement said.
Woza declare a victory for non-violent protest, it added. - Sapa-dpa
- SAPA
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