Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira, Zimpapers Writer
LAW enforcement agencies must deal decisively with drug and substance abuse without fear or favour to eradicate the vice, Acting President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.Speaking at Highfield Roman Catholic parish during an Anti-Drug and Substance Campaign organised by the church, he said: “To the law enforcement agencies, you must apply the law to its fullest, without fear or favour.
Never mind who is involved, how connected he might be, be guided by the law and not the individual concerned; there must
be no sacred cows, both those that are supplying and those taking it.
“To the community and religious leaders: You are the source of inspiration, speak openly against drug abuse, give advice and guidance. Let our churches, mosques and community halls become centres of hope and rehabilitation, not silence and denial.”
He warned drug peddlers that the full wrath of the law would descend on them.
“To the drug peddlers themselves, desist from selling drugs. You are leaving a trail of destruction, addiction and violence,” he said.
“You are destroying people’s lives because of your greed for money. We will never tolerate that as a country. The full wrath of the law will eventually come upon you.”
Dr Chiwenga implored parents to be vigilant over their children and monitor their movements and peers as part of efforts to ensure that they do not fall in the trap of drug abuse.
“To the parents and guardians, you have a great responsibility to know their movements, their friends, what they eat or drink. Neglect breeds destruction,” he said.
Dr Chiwenga said those taking drugs must reflect on their lives.
“To the drug abusers themselves, seek help, take responsibility and break free. Destroying yourself is destroying your family and your country,” he said.
Teachers should not turn a blind eye to the scourge.
“To the teachers and educators, do not turn a blind eye to warning signs. Be proactive, be vigilant and be part of the solution. Shape minds; do not allow them to be poisoned,” he said.
“Fellow congregants, together, as a nation, we must act decisively. We must dismantle supply chains, empower rehabilitation programs, strengthen family values, and build community resilience. We must treat drug abuse not only as a crime but as a public health and socio-economic crisis that requires a whole-of-society response.”
He said the country’s vision of a prosperous nation would not be achieved if the youths, who were drivers of the economy are enslaved by drugs.
“A drug-free Zimbabwe is non-negotiable if we are to attain prosperity,” he said.
Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe, who is also national vice chairperson of Anti-Drug and Substance Taskforce said the taskforce had come up with a clear roadmap to fight drug abuse.
“We have seven pillars under the Taskforce with distinct roles. We have also arrested more than 30 000 people under this plan,” said Minister Kazembe.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution responsible for Harare Metropolitan Charles Tawengwa said it was pleasing that the church was playing its role.
Roman Catholic representative Father Clifford Nhetekwa said they would continue to partner Government in the fight against drug abuse.
“The Government and the church are partners to fight this common enemy that has gone into our communities. We went to rebuild the nation together with the Government,” said Father Nhetekwa.
The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers, Zanu-PF Politburo members, legislators, local councillors and senior Government officials.
