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Published on 2024-03-30 03:28:31
Ngarivhume Shares Details On His Call For Protests On 31 July 2020 And Arrest
In April 2020, a small non-partisan team convened at Jacob Ngarivhume’s office in Hatfield to address the pressing issues facing Zimbabwe. The team agreed on the need for a new approach to the fight for democracy and justice in the country, focusing on issue-based activism. Corruption emerged as a central issue that cut across all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations, religion, or age groups.
Recognizing the devastating impact of corruption on Zimbabwe’s growth and future, Ngarivhume took the lead in launching a campaign against corruption. The culmination of this campaign was the call for nationwide anti-corruption demonstrations scheduled for 31 July 2020. Ngarivhume worked tirelessly to garner support for the demonstrations, engaging with various stakeholders, including opposition leaders, war veterans, civil society, and the business community.
The momentum and national support for the demonstrations alarmed the government, prompting a crackdown. Despite receiving messages of solidarity from senior police and army officials, Ngarivhume faced escalating threats and intimidation from unidentified individuals. The government accused him of being sponsored by Western powers and targeted diplomatic missions, including the US embassy.
As the pressure mounted, Ngarivhume remained resolute in his decision to proceed with the demonstrations, refusing to be cowed by threats and harassment. The Zanu PF’s hired thugs surrounded his house, forcing him to relocate his family for their safety. Amidst the escalating tensions, Ngarivhume received a chilling phone call warning him of imminent danger.
On 20 July 2020, Ngarivhume was violently arrested at his local church by armed police officers, with the assistance of plainclothes individuals. Despite the harrowing experience, he maintained his composure and followed the officers to Harare Central Police Station. His security detail, who accompanied him, provided some reassurance in the midst of uncertainty.
At the police station, Ngarivhume found himself in a grim situation, shackled and held in a dirty room. However, his spirits lifted when journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, also arrested, joined him. Together, they navigated the challenges of their detention, reaching out to lawyers for legal representation.
The ordeal of his arrest marked the beginning of a legal battle that exposed serious flaws in the judicial system, revealing a troubling pattern of capture and manipulation. Despite the obstacles and threats he faced, Ngarivhume remained steadfast in his commitment to the fight against corruption and injustice in Zimbabwe.
As he prepared to navigate the legal challenges ahead, Ngarivhume’s resilience and determination shone through, inspiring hope and solidarity among those who stood with him in the pursuit of a better future for the country.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
