adminregardless of divergent political views, Vice President Joice Mujuru has said.
She said for the development of Zimbabwe, leaders should adhere to a code of conduct being crafted by parties in the inclusive Government following violent clashes between their supporters.
VP Mujuru was speaking during a pass out parade of 420 police officers at Morris Depot in Harare yesterday where she was the reviewing officer.
The police details had completed a six-month competency based recruit training programme.
She also unveiled a “dedication tower” dedicated to the police for taking a leading role in safeguarding Zimbabwe’s independence and sovereignty.
VP Mujuru said: “I encourage political leaders to desist from violence but instead urge supporters to live in harmony despite the different political views.
“Our country is set to conduct a referendum once the drafting of the constitution is completed, followed by general elections.
“There is a clear indication that as a nation, we have religiously observed democratic processes since the attainment of independence. And of recent, President Mugabe has reaffirmed the zero tolerance to violence which has always been our position.”
She said the process of liberation included economic emancipation and the police should also embrace Government’s indigenisation and empowerment programme.
“We cannot talk of independence while the majority of Zimbabweans remain impoverished and the means of production remain in the control of a few individuals and foreign owned companies.”
She underscored the need for Zimbabweans to embrace and support Government’s empowerment programmes meant to address colonial imbalances.
“The country is endowed with abundant resources and it is our responsibility to ensure that sons and daughters of this country enjoy benefits thereof,” she said.
VP Mujuru commended the ZRP for taking gender equality seriously adding that more girls with requisite challenges should join the force.
Eighty-four female police officers were among the graduands.
VP Mujuru underscored the need for police officers to take up courses in information technology for them to deal with technology related criminal activities.
Corruption, she said, erodes dignity and retards economic development and growth.
“I would like to implore new and old police officers to shun corruption. Corruption is a cancer that eats away the very moral fibre that holds this nation together.
“Fundamentally, as police officers you are supposed to be shining beacons of moral uprightness, honesty and integrity.”
She reminded the force not to be polarised and swayed by external persuasions of people who do not value the nature of Zimbabwe’s independence.
The event was also attended by Minister of state in VP Mujuri’s office Sylvester Nguni, Home Affairs officials, Police Commissioner General Augustine Chihuri and senior police officers.
Online Reporter