(MISA/IFEX) – On Tuesday 5 June 2001, police beat up and arrested a “Daily News” reporter and four of the dozens of college students demonstrating against the privatisation of catering and accommodation services by the government in Harare. Armed riot police disrupted the students who had gathered at the Old Mutual Centre, the Ministry of […]
(MISA/IFEX) – On Tuesday 5 June 2001, police beat up and arrested a “Daily News” reporter and four of the dozens of college students demonstrating against the privatisation of catering and accommodation services by the government in Harare.
Armed riot police disrupted the students who had gathered at the Old Mutual Centre, the Ministry of Higher Education and Technology’s head office, forcing most of them to flee for safety.
They were detained at the Harare Central police station and later released after paying fines. “Daily News” photographer Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi was arrested for “conduct that might disrupt peace” and his film was confiscated but he was released two hours later after paying a US$60 fine. The reporter was beaten up and suffered a swollen arm and leg.
BACKGROUND:
Zimbabwe National Students’ Union (Zinasu) Secretary-General Tinashe Chimedza said the students had gathered to wait for Minister of Higher Education and Technology Herbert Murerwa, who was scheduled to meet Zinasu representatives.
Chimedza said they wanted to discuss with Murerwa low pay-outs and privatisation of catering services at all tertiary institutions in the country. Murerwa had not shown up when riot police moved in on the students.
Government college students countrywide have been on a Zinasu-led boycott since last month against the low pay-outs and privatisation of catering services.
