A Christian Aid partner organisation has been forced to close its offices in Mbare, Zimbabwe, after being threatened by ruling party militia.

The threats against the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) were made at a meeting in the local Church between residents of Mbare, one of the poorest and most crowded districts in Harare, and local leaders.

Militia stormed the meeting, threatening to beat people and warning CHRA that they should close their offices.

These meetings, organised by CHRA and funded by Christian Aid, are popular with residents who can raise their concerns about local issues that affect their lives - such as the rising cost of water, broken sewers or rubbish collection.

The most recent meeting coincided with a ruling party meeting in the same area. The ruling party meeting was poorly attended and this, coupled with rising tensions because of the ongoing strikes of doctors and teachers, is believed to have provoked the threats.

In a statement, CHRA said: 'The Association would like to assure residents and civic partners that CHRA will not be deterred by this interference but will use it to further mobilise the marginalised community of Mbare.

'Activities will continue as CHRA finds a new office to continue its action plans. CHRA is concerned with the continued harassment and interference from ZANU PF into Civic Society issues.

'The Association would like to reinforce that it is non-partisan and does not deal with political issues. The regime is timid and is now afraid of its own people. It will use violence and any tactics to support residents' voices demanding change.

'CHRA is committed to defending residents and advocating for effective, accountable and transparent governance.'

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