By Staff Writer
THE United States and United Kingdom governments have expressed concern over the alleged abduction and subsequent death of Zimbabwe’s main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist Tapfumaneyi Masaya.
In a statement Tuesday, the US embassy called for an immediate and thorough investigation by local authorities to bring those responsible to justice.
“The United States is alarmed by the reported abduction and death of an opposition campaign worker in Zimbabwe.
“We call for a full investigation by the local authorities, peaceful preparations for the December by-elections and an end to political violence,” reads the statement.
The United Kingdom embassy in Zimbabwe also expressed similar concerns in a brief statement.
“Saddened and concerned by the death of Pastor Tapfumanei Masaya following his abduction, after other alleged incidents in recent weeks. We express our deepest condolences to his family and friends,” said the mission .
Masaya was allegedly abducted Saturday by state security agents while campaigning for the upcoming December 9 by-elections.
He was forcibly taken away by armed men and found dead three days later.
Zimbabwe has witnessed a prolonged history of political activists experiencing forced disappearances and deaths, with the opposition frequently alleging the ruling Zanu PF party’s complicity in the torture and demise of its supporters.
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