Rivalries flare up afresh in Zimbabwe's new army

February 11, 1981

Factional clashes within Zimbabwe's new national army were reported for the second time in two days, prompting official concern that trouble inside the 11, 000-man force could spread. Police sealed off the main road through central Zimbabwe after internal fighting in the fledgling national army flared again Monday night. The area is traditionally one where Prime Minister Robert Mugabe's followers and those of Mini ster Without Portfolio Joshua Nkomo have vied for influence.