Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
Relatives of Adrian Tawenzera Rudzi, a well-known community member from Mberengwa Central under Chief Maziofa, have reported him missing after unknown assailants allegedly took him from his homestead.
The family is now appealing to the media and the public for help in locating him, expressing their deep concern for his safety.
Mr Rudzi, a local activist, was part of a grassroots group actively engaging villagers in door-to-door campaigns to encourage voter registration ahead of the harmonised elections scheduled for later this year.
According to his relatives, the group was not affiliated with any political party but aimed solely to educate and empower citizens about their democratic rights.
“We are deeply worried about Adrian,” said a close relative, who wished to remain anonymous. “He was taken from our home by individuals accusing him of holding illegal political campaigns. But the truth is, all he was doing was urging people to register to vote. He was not affiliated with any political party; he simply wanted to ensure that everyone could exercise their right to vote.”
In March, Mr Rudzi confided in his family about receiving strange phone calls from unknown individuals who claimed he was campaigning against Zanu-PF and accused him of having ulterior motives.
“He was scared but felt it was important to continue his work,” the relative added. “Now, after he was taken, we have not seen or heard from him, and we fear for his life.”
The situation has grown increasingly alarming as other members of the group Mr Rudzi worked with have also gone missing under suspicious circumstances.
The family is calling on local authorities, human rights organizations, and the media to intervene and assist in finding Mr. Rudzi and ensuring his safety.
“We just want him back home,” the relative pleaded. “He was only trying to help our community. We need people to know that he is not a criminal; he is a good man who wanted to see our voices heard.”
As concerns mount regarding the safety of political activists in the region, the family continues to search for answers and hopes for a swift resolution to this distressing situation.
Bongani Ndlovu