Chronicle Editor
Munyaradzi Musiiwa, Chronicle Reporter
The search for Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu, Josphat Mzaca Ngulube, Leroy Lungani Nyoni, Desire Makhwelo, Busani Moyo and other activists from Bulawayo, has intensified as security officials seek their arrest in connection with the January 2019 demonstrations that rocked Zimbabwe.
Ntandoyenkosi, who sustained a broken knee during the protests, has been accused of actively mobilising youths in Bulawayo to participate in the demonstrations, which subsequently resulted in tragic consequences.
The protests were called for by Zimbabwean Congress of Trade Union’s Peter Mutasa together with #ThisFlag Pastor Evan Mawarire and coordinated by the MDC Alliance.
The protest saw people stay away from work, school, and any other business for a week, under the banner; Shutdown Zimbabwe.
During the demonstrations, ordinary businesses became the biggest targets of attacks, resulting in the loss of goods, income, jobs and shops which were vandalised
Numerous individuals were arrested and convicted for their role in the protests with some escaping to neighbouring South Africa fearing arrest for the roles they played in the protest.
The aftermath of the protests witnessed the loss of several lives at the hands of security officials in Harare, while hundreds of demonstrators were apprehended.
Ntandoyenkosi, who was one of the main coordinators of the protests in Bulawayo, has since gone into hiding, fearing for his safety.
A concerned relative, who wishes to remain anonymous due to security concerns, revealed the distressing situation that Ntandoyenkosi’s family now finds themselves in.
The relative stated, “Security agents have visited our family home, searching for Ntandoyenkosi and issuing threats, demanding that we disclose his whereabouts. It is a terrifying experience for our family, knowing that our loved one is being actively pursued.”
The relative further emphasized Ntandoyenkosi’s involvement in the protests, saying, “Ntandoyenkosi was dedicated to raising awareness and mobilizing young people to take part in peaceful demonstrations to express their grievances. He believed in fighting for a better future for all Zimbabweans, but he never advocated violence or harm.”
According to the relative, Ntandoyenkosi joined opposition politics in 2013, as a youth member and was elected as youth organiser for Mgwanini branch in 2014.
As news of the authorities’ pursuit spreads, concerns grow over the safety and well-being of Ntandoyenkosi, Josphat and other activists believed to have skipped the country to neighbouring South Africa. The actions taken by security officials have raised questions regarding the protection of human rights and the freedom to express discontent peacefully.
Efforts to obtain comments from the security officials or relevant government representatives regarding the ongoing search and the accusations against Ntandoyenkosi have been unsuccessful at this time.
The situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by activists who seek to bring about positive change through peaceful means. The community stands in solidarity with Ntandoyenkosi, Josphat, and others like them, urging authorities to uphold the principles of justice and protect the fundamental rights of all individuals.
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