Tortured union leader Robson Chere shows ghastly injuries

By Staff Reporter

Amalgamated Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) secretary general Robson Chere suffered severe injuries on Wednesday, images show, when he and three other rights defenders were dragged from a waiting plane by state agents some moments before departure.

Also pulled from the plane were Namatai Kwekweza, Vusumuzi Sibanda and Samuel Gwenzi.

The state accused them of disorderly conduct in scenes that have accompanied the court appearance of jailed former CCC senator Jameson Timba and 77 other party activists who are accused of holding n unsanctioned gathering 16 June this year.

Lawyers say Chere was severely tortured while in state custody.

The teachers union leader is arguably one of the most vibrant and fearless activists in the country.