HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — A women’s activism group says Zimbabwean police used tear gas and baton charged to disperse Valentine’s Day marchers, herding 195 people into a police precinct. Twenty-five were later treated for injuries, including broken teeth.
The Women of Zimbabwe Arise leader Jenni Williams said Friday all but one – accused of indecent exposure – were released without charge.
The group traditionally marks Valentine’s Day with marches in Harare and Bulawayo giving out red roses as a symbol of peace and love in the troubled nation.
Williams said protesters marched to government buildings to peacefully voice concerns on flaws in a proposed new constitution over women’s rights.
Amnesty International, in a statement, said continuing attacks by police on Zimbabwean human rights defenders cast doubt on the country’s ability to hold credible polls.
