Zimbabwe army responds to violence claims

THE Zimbabwe National Army has issued a statement responding to allegations that soldiers were encouraging and perpetuating political violence that the opposition says has claimed the lives of 25 people.

The army rejected charges that soldiers have violated human rights and murdered opposition activists.

An officer of the army said some online-based publications and certain sections of the print media were releasing false information alleging the involvement of the army in post election violence.

Army deputy public relations officer, Major Alphios Makotore, said the army was concerned by the allegations that soldiers have spearheaded a campaign of violence, torture and murder against opposition supporters.

Makotore said: “The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) wishes to raise concerns over articles being published in the print and the electronic media on allegations relating to the alleged political violence, assaults, harassment and robberies perpetrated by men in army uniforms … the army categorically distances itself and any of its members from such activities.”

The opposition Movement for Democratic Change party has accused the army of involvement in post-election violence. Its spokesman, Nelson Chamisa said: “No amount of denials will take away the fact that the army, police, CIO agents, war veterans and Zanu PF militia are brutalising our supporters.”

This is the first statement issued by the army since violence erupted in the post-election period.