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AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi
World News

'Lose hope and we might as well die', says Zimbabwe bishop amid deadly unrest

Rt Rev Chad Nicholas Gandiya (not pictured) warned resolve on behalf of the nation was "crucial" in order to move on from unrest which has left twelve people dead.

He told Premier: "Even in spite of what's going on, I would want to encourage us not to lose hope. Otherwise, we might just as well cease living."

More than 600 have been arrested in demonstrations prompted after a significant rise in fuel prices which makes Zimbabwe the most expensive place in the world to buy petrol.

AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi

Pictured: An alleged victim of the crackdown.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa said "unacceptable" violence by security forces will be investigated. He also called for a "national dialogue" among political, civic and religious leaders.

The General Secretary of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches - an organisation representing more than two dozen denominations - signalled its readiness to take part.

Rev Dr Kenneth Mtata told Premier: "The population is polarised...there is a general acceptance that the Church plays this role to mediate between the different parties in the country."

People have reported being severely beaten in their own homes by security forces. Dozens of gunshot wounds have been treated by doctors.

Last summer, Premier reported on post-election violence in Zimbabwe.

Click here to listen to Premier's Eno Adeogan speaking with recently retired Bishop of Harare, Rt Rev Chad Nicholas Gandiya:

Video Has not been found

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