Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, [email protected]
THE Government has warned citizens against participating in unsanctioned demonstrations planned for July 31, saying law enforcement agencies are on high alert and prepared to maintain peace and public order.
In an interview with Zimpapers in Victoria Falls on Friday, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe dismissed calls for the demonstrations, which have been circulating on social media, describing them as unrealistic.
He said Zimbabwe is a country governed by the rule of law.
“This is a country with laws, this is a country with law enforcement agents and I can assure you that nothing of that sort will happen. Law enforcement agents will be ready and waiting,” said Minister Kazembe.
“This is not a banana republic. People spoke, people were happy, things were done constitutionally. Zimbabwe is a country with laws. People are allowed to dream; they can dream on, but as a country we are ready to deal with any mischief.”
Minister Kazembe assured citizens that peace and normalcy would prevail across the country on July 31, reaffirming Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property and public order.
“In this country, I can assure you, this is a peaceful country and there will be peace and tranquillity come July 31,” he said.
Minister Kazembe reiterated that while citizens are free to express their views within the confines of the law, any actions that threaten public peace, security or constitutional order will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
His remarks follow calls by some social media users for a national shutdown on July 31.
Police have in the past warned against the misuse of social media platforms to spread misinformation, incite violence or mobilise unlawful activities.
The planned demonstrations have been linked to the recent enactment of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Act No. 3 (CAA3), which Government says was enacted following constitutional procedures and broad public consultation.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda has previously described the constitutional amendment as a collective national achievement that reflects the will of Zimbabweans.
Government has maintained that all legal processes leading to the enactment of CAA3 were conducted transparently, with members of the public given an opportunity to make submissions through Parliament before the amendment was passed.
The warning by the Home Affairs Minister Kazembe comes at a time when security agencies have also intensified operations at major ports of entry and transport routes following increased cross-border movement linked to the repatriation of Zimbabweans from South Africa.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi recently said they had intensified surveillance to prevent criminal elements from exploiting increased human movement and to ensure the country remains peaceful and secure.
The Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of assembly and demonstration, but public gatherings are regulated under existing laws, including requirements for notification to authorities and adherence to public safety provisions.
