NEW: Zimbabwe Defence Forces denounce false social media claims

Debra Matabvu

THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has dismissed as false a social media article claiming they are not happy with the country’s affairs.

In a statement, ZDF said the issues raised in the social media article were outside its jurisdiction as provided for by the Constitution.

“The Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned and disturbed by a sensationally wild, false and malicious social media article dated 16 May 2024 purporting to have been released by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters,” said the ZDF.

“The social media article gives the impression that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned about the distribution of food aid, the ZiG currency, money changers and investigation into matters of corruption.

“These allegations are all falsehoods and an attempt to mislead the people of Zimbabwe on the extent of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ jurisdiction in national matters.”

ZDF said its mandate as provided for by the Constitution is to protect the Zimbabwean territory, its people and its interests.

“In the context of its mandate, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces has no business giving Press statements on matters that fall outside their jurisdiction,” said the ZDF.

“It is, therefore, unbelievable that such false claims purported to be coming from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters are circulating on social media using a modified letterhead to mislead the people of Zimbabwe.

“To this end, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces advises the public to dismiss the false message circulating on social media with the contempt it deserves.”