By A Correspondent – A Zimbabwean man who recently returned home after spending 15 years in Australia has expressed frustration after authorities allegedly blocked the launch of his new political party in Masvingo.

Benefit Chikomo said he was left disappointed after learning that he would not be allowed to hold a rally to officially launch the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at Mucheke Stadium on Saturday.

In an interview with Masvingo Mirror, Chikomo claimed the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Masvingo informed him that the gathering could not go ahead despite him following the required legal procedures.

“I notified the police last Friday of my intention to hold a rally at Mucheke Stadium on Saturday as prescribed by law. The letter was submitted on time to give them time to consider it, but they called me on Wednesday and advised me that the rally cannot continue,” said Chikomo.
According to Chikomo, the event was meant to serve as the official unveiling of his party while also launching a nationwide membership recruitment campaign.

He accused the ruling party, ZANU PF, of using state institutions to suppress political competition and limit opposition activities.
“This is a usual tactic being used by Zanu PF to deny other political actors space,” he said.
Chikomo said the PDP has already attracted more than 600 members and established a 16-member interim leadership team under his leadership.

Despite the setback, he insisted the party remains determined to grow and challenge the current government.

“We are not fazed by this move. We will continue to mobilise and recruit members. Our motive is to remove Zanu PF from power because Zimbabweans are suffering,” he said.
Chikomo also explained that worsening economic conditions motivated his decision to leave Australia and return to Zimbabwe to pursue political change.

“I was staying in Australia for the past 15 years, but I decided to come back to fight for the freedom of Zimbabweans,” he said.