Zimbabwean police on Wednesday this week thwarted the much anticipated 'Freedom Walk' by the main opposition party, Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) which was expected to take place in Harare's CBD.

MDC's Freedom March

Businesses in affected areas had to close for while, as people sought refuge in nearby buildings. Near Kaguvi, Rotten Row and Robert Mugabe streets, police had to use teargas to disperse the people- who ran for dear life.

People who were doing business, walking or relaxing in these areas were also caught up in the crossfire.

One of the MDC supporters- who led a group along Robert Mugabe Street shouted, "Zvakwana Mugabe. Chienda. Wationesa Nhamo. Ikozvino yava nguva yaTsvangirai wo. (It's enough now, Mugabe. Go now. We have suffered enough. Now, it's time for Tsvangirai to rule.)

In a couple of minutes, a Mercedes Benz police vehicle, accompanied by a truck- full of riot policemen showed up and people began running in all directions as the police beat up people (even those not involved in the walk).

Business was not at its peak in the CBD as movements were restricted by policemen. Even hanging around in groups would invite the policemen who roamed around the streets.

The MDC had planned a protest to demonstrate against the deteriorating economy and to press for a new constitution it says will guarantee free and fair elections scheduled for March this year. The party had also notified the police of the event.

The police called off the 'walk' citing it was a threat to national security especially considering that it was to be held in the CBD. The ZRP went on to suggest if allowed to 'walk', the marchers were likely to engage in violent activities mainly owing to their leaders' reckless statements.

As the MDC supporters were coming from the rally venue, that is when they tried to defy the orders by trying to march in the CBD.

Unfortunately, the police was scattered all over the city, and quickly dispersed the angry mob- forcefully.

CBZ Bank, Kaguvi street had to temporarily close whilst people who were queuing for cash suddenly dispersed soon after noticing teargas smoke and police trucks.

An individual who tried in vain to seek refuge at a nearby building said it was not fair for the police to just use such force against defenceless citizens.

"The police are using batons and teargas to disperse people who have no weapons at all."

"It is unfortunate that I am innocent- trying to withdraw money from my bank account, but now running for cover of which the security guards at this building I am trying to get into won't let me in," he said.

Earlier in the day on Wednesday, MDC president, Morgan Tsvangirai was reported to have been held for questioning at Avondale Police station.

Tendai Biti, the secretary general of the MDC recently said the march- dubbed the 'freedom walk' is intended to highlight the suffering and plight of Zimbabweans, the demand for a new constitution before the elections and most importantly, an even electoral field.

Tsvangirai continuously threatens his party might boycott elections unless Mugabe's government implements a new constitution. The development hit a snag last week as South African President, Thabo Mbeki failed to bring Mugabe and Tsvangirai to an agreement. Mugabe reportedly refused to change the constitution before the elections, but said would do so after the polls.

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