Mugabe protest crushed

Police in Zimbabwe have used batons, tear gas and water cannons to crush an anti-government protest in the capital Harare, despite a court order that the demonstration should be permitted.

At least 50 people were injured by the police, said former vice president Joice Mujuru, now head of the People First party.

“The people’s anger is very deep. Zimbabweans are beginning to say enough is enough,” said another opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, at a press conference after the demonstration was dispersed.

Another anti- government demonstration will be held nextFriday, said the coalition of at least 18 opposition parties and civic organisations that organised the protest.

Protests have become a near-daily occurrence in the southern African country, which has been ravaged by a tumbling economy andwidespread food shortages.

Supporters of 92-yearold Mr Mugabe, who has ruled Zimbabwe since independence from white minority rule in 1980, say he should rule until he dies.

A vehicle is set alight by protesters in Harare