Terrence Mawawa, Gutu| Zanu PF MP for Gutu Central Constituency, Lovemore Matuke’s brother James is an organiser who leads protests against President Robert Mugabe’s goverment.
As democratic forces continue to coalesce against the government, James Matuke, brother to the former  Zanu PF provincial and current Politburo member, Lovemore, played an influential role in the stay away held two weeks ago.
James and Philemon Mhike both of Muguhu Village appeared before Gutu Magistrate Edwin Marecha on July 11, 2016 facing charges of participating in a violent political demonstration.
James, Mhike and a group of protesters are alleged to have barricaded the Gutu-Bhasera highway and obstructed vehicles with passengers from passing through. The two were noticed by Constable John Hamutoni as they led the protesters at Mushayavanhu Business Centre. An alert was sent to the Police Support Unit, leading to the arrest of the two at the scene.
James’ participation in the anti-government protests mirrors growing discontent in and out of the troubled ruling party.
The two were granted $100 bail each. As the country’s economic situation continues to dwindle with each passing day, the incident could be an indication staunch Zanu PF supporters are beginning to realise the pronounced failure by the government to steer the nation forward. Ironically the two were part of the Zanu PF terror group that terrorised opposition supporters ahead of the disputed 2008 presidential election run-off.