Let’s vote in peace

Patricia Matinenga

ON August 23, Zimbabweans will head to polling stations to cast their votes.

Political parties have already started their campaigns and many are happy with the peace in the country thus far.

As a university student, I wish peace could continue to prevail during the campaign period, on voting day and after the announcement of election results.

Fellow youths, let us shun all forms of political violence, as is being encouraged by President Mnangagwa.

Let us not be misled by misguided political elements that promote unrest for selfish gains.

We must understand that we are one people and should never resort to violence to settle political scores.

Elections should never be the reason one risks life and limb. This is a simple democratic process that should unite, rather than divide, us.

History has proved to us that whenever there is discord, we, students, are the ones who tend to suffer. Our lectures and other engagements are disturbed.

Besides learning institutions, the economy and many other things suffer in the process, which, in turn, does not help anyone.

Voting is our right, but let us be responsible citizens. Remember, peace starts with me. It also starts with you.

Spread the message of love, peace and tolerance.

Patricia Matinenga is a Zimbabwe Open University student.

Students can write short poems/stories or about special events at their schools and send to: [email protected]