Gukurahundi victims demand answers from Mujuru

Two Gukurahundi victims yesterday invaded the pitch at the Pitje Stadium in Mamelodi, Pretoria, where Zimbabwe People First leader Joice Mujuru was expected to address a rally demanding answers about the 1980s massacre which cost the lives of about 20 000 mainly in Matabeleland and the Midlands.

South African and Tswane metro police had to rush to quell tempers according to the African News Agency.

The two were manhandled by Mujuru's supporters as they fought back before being taken away by the police who escorted them out of the stadium.

Mujuru has dissociated herself and her husband, who was commander of the army at the time, from the atrocities but there is evidence that Solomon Mujuru, who was known as Rex Nhongo at the time, was informed about the massacres but did nothing.

Vusi Sibanda, one of the two protesters, said Mujuru had a lot to explain.

“Right now I do not have a father because Joice's husband killed him. She is complicit in those murders of our people. Has she become a saint suddenly because she was fired from ZANU-PF. I came here to demand answers,” he said.

Another protester only identified as Sfiso said: “Mujuru can address her rally anywhere but she must not mention Gukurahundi. We will not allow that to happen. She can't turn around and use Gukurahundi to campaign now. She is one of the architects of that massacre.”

Mujuru was scheduled to address her “star rally” in Mamelodi where numerous Zimbabweans live, but the event was marred by poor organisation and attendance.

The scuffle happened before Mujuru had arrived. According to ANA, the rally was scheduled to start at 9am but by 12.30pm only a small crowd of Zimbabweans were at the venue while others were leaving.

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