Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
POLITICAL leaders, business representatives and South African returnees in Mashonaland West have condemned planned demonstrations scheduled for tomorrow, urging residents to ignore calls for protests and continue with their normal activities.
The demonstrations have reportedly been organised by activists calling for a nationwide shutdown in protest against the Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 (CAA3).
Authorities have warned that any demonstrations not held in accordance with the law will not be tolerated, with the Zimbabwe Republic Police saying it will take action against anyone who engages in unlawful conduct.
In a statement issued this morning, Zanu PF Mashonaland West provincial chairperson, Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, said the planned demonstrations were intended to undermine constitutional governance despite Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 having been enacted through the country’s established legislative processes.
“As Zanu PF Mashonaland West Province, we uphold the country’s Constitution, the rule of law and the democratic institutions of our nation,” she said.
“Once legislation is duly passed in accordance with constitutional procedures, it becomes binding and must be respected by all persons.
“Mashonaland West Province therefore condemns any attempts to incite public disorder, undermine constitutional governance or disrupt peace and normal economic activities under the guise of protesting against what has already become law.”
Cde Mliswa-Chikoka urged citizens to remain peaceful, responsible and committed to preserving national unity, stability and development.
Her sentiments were echoed by the Senator Sengezo Tshabangu’s Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) provincial spokesperson, Mr Tendayi Musonza, who said the party remained committed to constitutionalism, constructive engagement and dialogue.
“Our approach is centred on pragmatic politics, mutual respect, inclusive dialogue and practical solutions to Zimbabwe’s challenges,” he said.
“Lasting national development cannot be achieved through conflict but through a shared commitment to the national interest.
“We therefore urge all young Zimbabweans to exercise restraint, remain peaceful and avoid participating in acts of violence or destruction.
“Let us channel our energy towards meaningful dialogue, democratic participation and nation-building.”
Kadoma businessman and philanthropist, Cde Jimayi Muduvuri, dismissed the planned demonstrations, saying they would disrupt business and economic activity.
“As the business community, we want Zimbabweans to continue enjoying the peace and stability prevailing in the country,” he said.
“I encourage citizens to stay away from the planned demonstrations because any disruption negatively affects the economy.”
The call was also supported by South African returnees who have resettled in the province and are involved in various economic activities.
Provincial chairperson of the South African Returnees Association, Mr Tsidzai Marodza, said the returnees should focus on productive work instead of participating in demonstrations.
“I encourage fellow returnees to ignore the planned demonstrations and continue working to improve the livelihoods of our families and contribute to national development,” he said.
“We are encouraged by the progress taking place in the country and believe our return will further support that development drive,” he said.
Mr Marodza said the association was working with Zanu PF structures and the business community to mobilise capital for returnees to establish income-generating projects.
