Peace, security guaranteed . . .Police on high alert . . .Shops to open on Monday

Source: Peace, security guaranteed . . .Police on high alert . . .Shops to open on Monday | The Sunday Mail

President Mnangagwa last week told the ruling party that Zimbabwe will forever be a constitutional, democratic and sovereign nation, with all of its people living in unity, peace and harmony

Sunday Mail Reporters

ZIMBABWEANS should go about their business as usual as law-enforcement agents will be vigilant and on high alert to guarantee security and ensure peace across the country, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere has said.

Addressing the media yesterday in the capital, Minister Muswere urged Zimbabweans to ignore calls for protests that are being made by “cyber terrorists” and fanned through social media, saying the country’s security sector is well-equipped to deal with any mischief.

“As official Government spokesman, I would like to assure the nation that peace and stability continue to prevail in our country in terms of the Constitution, including on the 31st March 2025, and all Zimbabweans should disregard misinformation and disinformation being peddled on social media platforms by cyber terrorists,” said Dr Muswere.

“We also like to assure the people that law-enforcement agencies have more than enough capacity to deal with any illegal activities that might take place in our country. As a Government, we have taken note of artificial intelligence-generated videos and messages from comedian-cum-terrorists who seek to misinform and dis-inform the public. Those who want to create despondency, alarm and anarchy will be dealt with in terms of the law. No one has the right to overthrow a constitutionally elected Government. So labour, business, learners, students and the generality of all Zimbabweans should continue to do their business as usual as the security sector has more than enough capacity to deal with any illegal activities in our country.”

The call for protests, Dr Muswere said, was misplaced as it sought to create a false narrative of a non-existent political crisis.

“We urge Zimbabweans not to participate in these illegal activities which are aimed at creating a false narrative of a political crisis in the country. These actions are criminal and undermine the constitutional rights of freedom of assembly,” he said.

Peaceful and safe

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe yesterday assured Zimbabweans of peace.

“Meanwhile, I want to reassure all Zimbabweans that peace prevails in the country today, tomorrow and thereafter. They should go about their business assured of peace and tranquillity in the country,” he said.

“As already stated, the security forces are on the lookout for any elements intent on disrupting our peace.

“Zimbabweans should not be hoodwinked or misled by old, recycled videos meant to give context to narratives being fostered by those bent on causing public disorder; for instance, the Bulawayo vendor video which occurred long back as vendors were bidding farewell to their departed colleague.”

Zimbabweans, he added, should not be used by criminals that intend to loot businesses under the guise of planned demonstrations.

Minister Kazembe also denounced “unruly elements”, who are supported by “a fringe group living outside the country”, that have been indicating their intentions to target individuals and properties.

“Following stage-managed acts of arson committed yesterday (Friday) in Harare and Goromonzi, the Government reassures the nation that police are hard on the spore and are working with various agencies of the State, including Central Vehicle Registry, to get to the bottom of the matter,” he said.

“Furthermore, the Government unreservedly condemns acts of arson in Sanyati today (yesterday) ; the law-enforcement agency is investigating the matter. I want to continue to urge and encourage all Zimbabweans to resist any acts of arson and incitement to acts of wanton lawlessness.”

In a statement yesterday, police said the country remains peaceful and conducive for the public to freely move from one place to another.

It also implored the public to ignore “false social media messages on the maintenance of law and order in the country”.

“No one will be stopped by police officers from moving into the central business districts, go to work or church,” said the statement.

“The police will take stern action on anyone who will try to stop the public from going to work or interfere with the day-to-day activities under the guise of perceived demonstrations or strikes.”

Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba has since engaged the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to take action against private colleges and schools that “have sent pupils home on false social media claims and indicated they will be called back in May 2025”.

Security agents in Masvingo province said they will be on high alert to ensure the safety and security of residents.

At a press briefing at the Benjamin Burombo Government Complex on Saturday, Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira said the Government will deal with those seeking to disrupt peace and normal business activities.

The briefing was also attended by members of the Joint Operations Command (JOC).

Minister Chadzamira urged residents, businesses and public institutions, including schools, to continue their operations as usual, stating that their safety is guaranteed.

“Our various security arms of Government are on high alert in the wake of some social media posts calling for unlawful actions that undermine the prevailing peace and security in our province,” he said.

“The safety of our citizens in the province and visitors is guaranteed and we urge our people to continue with their day-to-day socio-economic activities in pursuance of Vision 2030.”

Retrogressive

Business, clerics and ordinary members of society yesterday continued to denounce calls for protests as retrogressive.

In a televised address to his followers, popular Nigerian televangelist and Christ Embassy founder Pastor Chris Oyakhilome also strongly condemned the planned March 31 demonstrations.

He described those calling for protests as “agents of the devil”.

“In fact, on Sunday (today) I call on all Christians throughout Zimbabwe to fast and pray for your country because of those who are trying to stir up the people to go on some protest . . . Don’t believe them. What they want to do is destroy the country. Don’t let it happen.”

He further questioned the motive of those pushing for protests.

Business as usual

Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) president Mr Denford Mutashu said all retail outlets, wholesalers, supermarkets and shops across the country will be operating as usual on Monday.

“We further wish to advise that the CZR has engaged the country’s security authorities and has received solid assurances that the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other security institutions have put in place adequate measures to ensure the maintenance of peace, security and the protection of businesses, employees and the general public,” said Mr Mutashu.

“The CZR acknowledges and appreciates the commitment by the security services to safeguard the smooth functioning of commerce and the well-being of citizens during this period. We, therefore, encourage all businesses to continue with their operations without disruption and to remain guided by the prevailing laws and regulations.”