afrol News, 4 June - President Robert Mugabe's regime has banned an international aid agency from feeding hungry villagers for allegedly campaigning for opposition ahead of 27 June run off polls.

Care International operations were banned pending investigations by the government to ensure that its operations are not politically motivated, but Care denied the allegation.

Zimbabwean government has in recent weeks stepped up pressure against Non Governmental Organisations accusing them of using aid distribution as a pretext to campaign for Mr Mugabe's rival, Movement for Democratic Change leader, Mr Morgan Tsvangirai.

Social Welfare Minister Mr Nicholas Goche told ZimOnline that other non-governmental organizations involved in food distribution in Manicaland province will also be asked to halt operations while they are also investigated.

The recent food shortages and hiking food prices in Global markets, has caused a serious food deficit in the country with more than one third of Zimbabwean population in dire need of food, especially rural dwellers who are solemnly depending on agriculture.

Justice Minister Mr Patrick Chinamasa told national television last week that Care International and another aid group, Plan International, were to blame for Mr Mugabe's poor showing in the March polls in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces.

National Association of NGOs spokesperson Fambai Ngirande, discarded a claim but instead accused the government of stopping assistance to those who have been receiving it before the elections.

Meanwhile, senior opposition figure Mr Arthur Mutambara has been freed on bail, after being arrested on Sunday over a newspaper article. Upon his release, he lashed on Mr Mugabe for serious violations in the country.

Since the March polls, Zimbabwe has recorded severe human rights violations with more than 50 people reported dead while tens of thousands are displaced in the violence perpetuated by Mr Mugabe's government in a bid to intimidate Zimbabweans to back him in the June 27 run-off election.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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