Zimbabweans chain themselves to Mandela statue

Zimbabweans go to the polls on 31 July. According to Reuters, the Zimbabwean exiles argued that despite the imminent election, their country was not free.

The three wrapped a thick silver chain around their necks at the base of the 2.7 metre tall statue. The spectacle ended quickly after security staff requested them to leave.

Riot police have reportedly been deployed in Zimbabwe on 30 July, the eve of the election. An election in 2008 was marred by political violence.