Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe has called for the introduction of mandatory custodial sentences of not less than 10 years for drug traffickers and peddlers, and said tougher laws were needed to address the growing drug and substance abuse problem in the country.
In a statement, PAPCOZ chairperson Mr Patson Murimoga said drug abuse was increasingly destroying lives, weakening families and undermining communities, particularly among young people.
“The Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe (PAPCOZ) wishes to express its deep concern over the growing menace of drug and substance abuse, which continues to threaten the social fabric of our nation and the future of our young people,” he said.
Mr Murimoga said families were being affected across communities, with addiction contributing to loss of productivity, rising crime and disrupted livelihoods.
He commended the Government and other stakeholders for ongoing efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, including awareness campaigns, enforcement operations and rehabilitation programmes.
“At the outset, PAPCOZ extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Zimbabwe for the deliberate and ongoing efforts being undertaken to combat drug and substance abuse,” Mr Murimoga said.
He also acknowledged the role of law enforcement agencies, health institutions, traditional leaders, churches, civil society organisations, educators and families in addressing the problem.
However, Mr Murimoga said more focus was needed on dismantling drug supply networks, arguing that traffickers and dealers were driving the crisis.
“Drug traffickers and peddlers are not merely breaking the law; they are knowingly destroying lives, destabilising families, undermining communities and jeopardising the future of our nation for personal gain,” he said.
Mr Murimoga urged Parliament and relevant authorities to strengthen legislation and introduce tougher penalties for offenders.
He proposed a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for serious drug trafficking and peddling offences and said it would act as a deterrent.
“The growing prevalence of drug abuse among young people is a matter of national concern that requires urgent and decisive action,” Mr Murimoga said.
“Every packet of illicit drugs sold represents a potential life destroyed, a family broken and a future compromised.”
Mr Murimoga said they remained committed to supporting prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, and these must be reinforced by stronger enforcement measures.
“As a nation, we cannot afford to lose another generation to the scourge of drugs,” he said.
PAPCOZ called for coordinated action among Government, civil society and communities to eradicate drug and substance abuse.
