RSS 2.0 FeedOctober 2011 Vol 37, Human rights and abuse
Mugabe's thugs attack opposition supporters
HARARE, Zimbabwe -- The party of Zimbabwe's prime minister says 22 people were injured and property was destroyed after youths attacked hundreds of supporters gathered at a rally in a town south of the capital, Harare.
Tendai Biti, secretary-general for the Movement for Democratic Change, says the party was forced to cancel a Sunday rally after attackers stoned and beat up supporters. He says the attackers were identified as President Robert Mugabe militants, known as Chipangano in the local Shona language.
The incident came as regional mediators wound up a visit to Harare aimed at easing tensions in Zimbabwe's two-year coalition.
Mugabe formed a shaky coalition government with former opposition Morgan Tsvangirai in 2009 after disputed elections in 2008.
