Re-Arrest of Activists Sparks Tension in Zimbabwe Government
By VOA News
05 May 2009
Zimbabwe's unity government is under fresh strain after a judge revoked the bail of 18 opposition activists facing charges of terrorism.
The 18 activists, including human rights campaigner Jestina Mukoko, were taken into police custody Tuesday after prosecutors formally indicted them on charges stemming from an alleged plot to overthrow President Robert Mugabe.
The MDC party of Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai quickly denounced the judge's ruling, saying it threatens the life, health and longevity of Zimbabwe's inclusive government.
Defense lawyers for the activists say they will file new bail applications.
The activists had been freed on bail in March after being arrested and held in secret last year on charges that included terrorism, banditry, and sabotage.
Mukoko and others say they were tortured while in prison.
Mukoko heads the Zimbabwe Peace Project. Her arrest last year sparked an international outcry.
The MDC and Mr. Mugabe's ZANU-PF party formed a unity government in Februrary. The government has made progress toward easing Zimbabwe's political and economic crisis but the parties remain divided over power-sharing issues.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.
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