Zimbabwe bars South African pop group from performing

JOHANNESBURG A South African pop group known for its World Cup collaboration with Shakira says it's been barred from performing in neighboring Zimbabwe after it released a video criticizing the country's president.In an interview Monday, Freshlyground singer Zolani Mahola said the band was told last week by Zimbabwean authorities that their work permits for concerts planned next month had been revoked. Mahola says no reason was given, but she believes the spark was the "Chicken to Change" video released earlier this month.

The video depicts President Robert Mugabe isolated in his limousine, uncaring of his people's suffering. The video's Mugabe puppet transforms into a fearful chicken.Ridiculing the president is illegal in Zimbabwe.Zimbabwean immigration officials have refused to comment.(AP)