Zimbabwe has filed treason charges against dozens of political activists accused of plotting anti-government protests similar to those that toppled leaders in Egypt and Tunisia.
The charge carries a possible death sentence.
Defence lawyer Alec Muchadehama said the accused would plead not guilty when the case goes to trial, asserting that the accused were in an academic debate on African politics when police arrested them.
Those held include trade unionists, student leaders and Munyaradzi Gwisai, who heads a small but radical pressure group, called the International Socialist Organisation.
President Robert Mugabe, 87, has held power for 31 years.
Critics say Mugabe has used tough policing and vote-rigging to keep his grip on power despite an economic crisis in the past decade which many blame on his mismanagement.
Mugabe was forced into a power-sharing government with Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change about two years ago, and is pressing for fresh elections.
Analysts say this would favour Mugabe's ZANU-PF party if no major political reforms are put in place, including a new constitution and improved voter registration.
Tsvangirai said last week his MDC would boycott any general election called before these reforms were enacted.
46 charged with anti-Mugabe treason plot
Zimbabwe has filed treason charges against dozens of political activists accused of plotting anti-government protests similar to those that toppled leaders in Egypt and Tunisia.
The charge carries a possible death sentence.
Defence lawyer Alec Muchadehama said the accused would plead not guilty when the case goes to trial, asserting that the accused were in an academic debate on African politics when police arrested them.
Those held include trade unionists, student leaders and Munyaradzi Gwisai, who heads a small but radical pressure group, called the International Socialist Organisation.
President Robert Mugabe, 87, has held power for 31 years.
Critics say Mugabe has used tough policing and vote-rigging to keep his grip on power despite an economic crisis in the past decade which many blame on his mismanagement.
Mugabe was forced into a power-sharing government with Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change about two years ago, and is pressing for fresh elections.
Analysts say this would favour Mugabe's ZANU-PF party if no major political reforms are put in place, including a new constitution and improved voter registration.
Tsvangirai said last week his MDC would boycott any general election called before these reforms were enacted.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Latest Videos