ZRP vows firm action against acts of violence 

Source: ZRP vows firm action against acts of violence – herald

Gibson Nyikadzino

Zimpapers Politics Hub

Police have assured citizens that the country’s peace and security are guaranteed against any acts of violent dissent after a group of foreign‑funded activists allegedly threatened violence on State institutions under the guise of defending the Constitution.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the law would take its course without fear or favour against those advocating violence and incitement that could disturb the prevailing tranquillity. He urged citizens to conduct themselves within the confines of the law.

“There are laws in this country and anyone who wants to do something should conform to what these laws say. If anyone wants to incite violence, the law will take its course without fear or favour,” Comm Nyathi said.

This comes after security forces reportedly foiled a plot to orchestrate national protests in the coming weeks by an alliance comprising internal and external saboteurs, bloggers and digital activists linked to the regime‑change outfit, the Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF), convened by opposition activist Mr Tendai Biti.

Information in The Herald’s possession reveals that two foreign funders (names supplied) have allocated substantial amounts to bankroll the illegal protests as part of a regime‑change agenda, with more funds expected from other foreign networks.

The coalition pushing for regime change, reportedly coordinated by United States‑based activist and Team Pachedu member Freeman Chari, had courted fugitive ex‑minister Saviour Kasukuwere and the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) to join forces in the plan.

According to documents seen by The Herald, the plan to push for the violent removal of Government was conceived last October but has since faced internal challenges after Kasukuwere allegedly misappropriated funds meant for recruited online activists, the CDF, ZINASU, bloggers and other like‑minded elements.

Social media posts by Team Pachedu — the coalition of cyber activists — have called for a “new method” to “defend the Constitution”, followed by remarks encouraging the targeting of Government officials, their families and their children with violence.

In an X (formerly Twitter) post on 5 March, Chari said part of his responsibility while in the United States was to “plug” people who feel they are capable of opposing and fighting Government.

“Our responsibility especially in the diaspora is to make sure that we provide solidarity, reclaim the narrative and provide a voice that is bigger than that of the system.

“If there is something you feel you are good at, just say the word and we will plug you. We need to move forward together,” Chari posted.

Chari also posted on X that “you must never be prepared to die, always be prepared to kill,” statements that political and security analysts say provoke strong indignation and leave a sour taste, particularly coming from individuals who claim to be democrats.