Following a series of protests and threats to boycott the national general elections in Vuwani, Arnold Mulaudzi, spokesperson of the Pro-Makhado Demarcation Task Team who has been at the forefront of the activities in the area, was reportedly arrested on the eve of elections.
Task team chairperson Takalani Mukhudi, confirmed that Mulaudzi was on Tuesday evening taken from his home by persons who identified themselves as Police officers. Mukhudi further said when they followed up the incident with Vuwani Police Station, the station commander confirmed that Mulaudzi had been arrested in charges of alleged intimidation and contravention of the electoral act.
“His arrest is suspicious because it looks like it is politically motivated. We were told that he was taken to Polokwane Police Station after his arrest which is also suspicious. Information at hand indicate that he has not been charged yet. Mulaudzi is very frank and does not hide anything. He is also the pillar of the task team,” Mukhudi explained.
He stated that Mulaudzi was expected to appear before the Vuwani Magistrate’s Court today (Thursday). According to Mukhudi the situation in Vuwani is back to normal as the task team indicated that the shutdown would cease yesterday. He concluded by stating that the election process went smoothly as the task team had made it clear that no one would deprive residents of their democratic right to vote.
Information from the Police on the alleged arrest is still awaited. An update of the court appearance to follow.
Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
