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Flora Fadzai Sibanda

Relatives of Zibusiso Khumalo, a well-known street vendor and plumber from Nsuza, Sigonde Village in Lupane, Matabeleland North province, are increasingly worried about his whereabouts following his mysterious disappearance under unclear circumstances.

The situation has raised alarms in the community, especially after Khumalo was reportedly attacked by suspected Zanu-PF supporters who accused him of conspiring with opposition party activists to campaign against the ruling party.

A close relative expressed their concerns, stating, “Zibusiso was wrongfully perceived as an opposition activist. He is a popular figure in the village, as due to his work as a street vendor and plumber, he interacts with everyone, regardless of their political affiliations. His kindness and willingness to help others made him well-liked.

“What happened is that a group of youths from Zanu-PF took his popularity as a sign that he was campaigning for the opposition as he had refused to join Zanu-PF, claiming that he was apolitical and all that he was interested in was his plumbing business. In February, he was severely attacked by these individuals.”

After the attack, which left Khumalo visibly shaken, he has since vanished, prompting fears for his safety.

The family is particularly distressed as they allege that the police have refused to prosecute his attackers, who have made it clear that they would “deal with him” for his supposed political activities. “We are terrified for his life. The attackers have threatened him openly, and now he’s just gone. We don’t know what to think. What makes matters worse is that the police blatantly refused to prosecute his attackers, claiming there was no evidence linking them to the attack,” the relative added.

As the community rallies for answers, the case underscores the growing tensions in the region and raises serious concerns about political violence and the safety of individuals who engage across party lines. Authorities have been urged to take the matter seriously and conduct a thorough investigation into Khumalo’s disappearance.