By Wezhira Munya

 

 

A member of the Masvingo urban youth from the Citizens Coalition for Change [CCC], Mr. Tafadzwa Runesu, aged 23, fell ill after inhaling tear gas smoke.

 

[Please refer to the attached video where Mr. Runesu, along with his mother and CCC Ward 2 aspiring councillor, narrates the effects of police tear gas on Mr. Runesu.]

 

On Sunday, 13th August 2023, police officers in Masvingo urban fired tear gas at CCC members who were present at Mamutse Stadium, where President Nelson Chamisa was addressing them.

 

Shortly after President Chamisa left the rally venue, the police fired tear gas, affecting numerous CCC members.

 

Mr. Runesu, a resident of Ward 2 in Masvingo, is now seriously ill due to inhalation of tear gas smoke.

 

Mr. Runesu stated, “I am experiencing coughing and breathing problems after inhaling tear gas smoke at Mamutse Stadium in Masvingo Urban Ward 3.”

 

Commenting on Mr. Runesu’s health condition following exposure to tear gas, CCC Ward 2 aspiring councillor Ms. Shantel Yeukai Chiwara stated, “We condemn the use of tear gas on innocent citizens who were dispersing after President Chamisa concluded his rally. I have taken Mr. Runesu to Masvingo General Hospital for treatment.”

 

His mother expressed concern, saying, “My son’s condition is deteriorating as he continues to suffer from the aftereffects of tear gas smoke. He is coughing, experiencing chest pains, and has difficulty sleeping.”

 

She further added that her son is struggling to eat.

 

Mr. Pedzisai Gasva, an aspiring member of parliament for Masvingo West CCC, remarked, “The deployment of tear gas against CCC members during the Masvingo urban rally demonstrates a lack of foresight by police officials. Innocent CCC members now face health challenges caused by tear gas exposure.”

 

In Masvingo Province, police officials have employed tear gas to disrupt Presidential CCC rallies at Rutenga Business Centre, Ngundu Business Centre, Chiredzi Central, and Masvingo urban.

 

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