MDC Women’s Assembly Meeting in Bulawayo Disrupted by Violence

An MDC Women’s Assembly gathering in Bulawayo was violently disrupted after a group of suspected hired thugs allegedly attacked party members with stones during an International Women’s Day event held at the party’s provincial offices on 14 March 2026.

The incident was reported by MDC leader Douglas Mwonzora, who said the women had gathered to mark the global day when the meeting came under attack. He alleged that the assailants were angered by the party’s position on Amendment 3 and the 2030 agenda.Posting on X, Mwonzora claimed the attack was politically motivated and meant to punish the party for its stance.He also accused police officers at the scene of failing to act while members of the Women’s Assembly were being assaulted.

According to Mwonzora, the attackers openly stated that they opposed the MDC’s position on Constitution Amendment  No.3, while the violence was also linked to what he described as retaliation over the party’s rejection of the 2030 agenda.By the time of publishing, there were no immediate reports confirming the number of people injured or whether any suspects had been arrested. Authorities had also not yet released an official comment on the matter.

The disturbance has sparked concern over political violence and intolerance, particularly as it targeted women during an event meant to celebrate International Women’s Day and promote women’s rights and participation.

The incident is likely to intensify debate around the safety of opposition supporters and women in politics in Zimbabwe.