By A Correspondent- Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president Obert Masaraure was arrested in Harare on Friday and immediately transferred to Masvingo, where he was granted $500 bail by a magistrate this Saturday.

ARTUZ spokesperson Nation Mudzitirwa said human rights lawyer Tonderai Bhatasara would represent him in Masvingo.

He said:

The arrest follows the June 22 demonstration by Artuz members in Masvingo, demanding US dollar salaries.

It’s shocking that the State would criminalise genuine union activities guaranteed by the law and basic labour rights.

We maintain that president Obert Masaraure is not a criminal, but unionist fighting for labour justice.