Teachers Brutally Assaulted Over Constitution Debate Meeting in Tsholotsho – Eduzim News

ARTUZ accuses authorities of escalating violence against educators amid tensions over constitutional changes

16 March 2026

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Teachers in Tsholotsho were reportedly brutally assaulted during a union gathering on Saturday, sparking outrage and raising concerns about growing political tensions and the safety of educators.

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) said several of its members were attacked when a union meeting was disrupted, leaving some with visible injuries and scars across their backs. Photographs circulating after the incident show severe marks believed to have been inflicted during the assault.

In a press statement released Monday, ARTUZ described the incident as part of what it called “increasing government violence against education workers.”

“The recent disruption of a union meeting in Tsholotsho, where our members were brutally assaulted, is not an isolated incident. It is an attempt by those in power to crush our resistance,” the union said.

Union Raises Alarm Over “Third Term” Debate

The union linked the attack to broader political tensions surrounding discussions about constitutional changes that critics fear could extend the tenure of Emmerson Mnangagwa beyond current limits.

According to ARTUZ, the so-called “2030 agenda” threatens democratic safeguards and could undermine constitutional term limits.

“This plot is an attempt by some to hold power beyond the law. ARTUZ strongly opposes this abuse and will mobilise members at school, district and provincial levels to defend the Constitution,” the union stated.

Teachers Demand Wage Reform

Beyond political concerns, ARTUZ reiterated long-standing economic grievances affecting teachers across Zimbabwe.

The union is demanding:

• A salary of US$1,260 to restore purchasing power for educators
• A genuine collective bargaining platform to replace the National Joint Negotiating Council
• Alignment of the Public Service Act with Section 65 of the Constitution, which guarantees workers’ rights to organise and strike

Union officials say teachers remain trapped in deep poverty while political elites continue to accumulate wealth.

Security Concerns for Union Leadership

ARTUZ also revealed that it has strengthened security around its president, Obert Masaraure, amid what it described as growing threats against union leaders.

The union said internal measures are also being implemented in Matabeleland North after identifying security lapses that allegedly allowed the attack to occur.

Complaint to Authorities Planned

ARTUZ says it will file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, demanding an investigation into the assault and accountability for those responsible.

The union also indicated it would work with international allies to highlight what it describes as repression against educators in Zimbabwe.

“Victory is certain,” the union declared in its closing remarks.

Legal Note

The claims contained in this article are based on statements issued by ARTUZ. Authorities had not yet responded to the allegations at the time of publication.

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