After realising that many of its members always fall victim to political violence in the rural areas during election time, the Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe has decided to launch a campaign to promote peaceful coexistence among its members and the communities.
Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said they will kick-start their campaign with a launch at Charumbira Shopping Centre in Hwedza district, Mashonaland East, where a variety of sporting activities will be held.
“We have come to realize that teachers, especially those in rural areas have failed to discharge their duties effectively because of political violence,” Masaraure said, adding that this has been happening since 2002 elections.
Rural teachers have been victims of political violence in previous election seasons with some losing their lives. Some local people have been accused of perpetrating the violence.
“We are going to bring in community leaders which will include councilors, headmen, war veterans, to come together with the teachers then they would share their hopes and aspirations,” said Masaraure.
