Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe (PAPCOZ) has called for the introduction of mandatory custodial sentences of not less than 10 years for drug traffickers and peddlers.
The organisation said tougher laws were needed to address the growing drug and substance abuse problem in the country.
In a communique, PAPCOZ chairperson Mr Patson Murimoga, said drug abuse was increasingly destroying lives, weakening families and undermining communities, particularly young people.
“The Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe (PAPCOZ) wishes to express its deep concern over the growing menace of drug and substance abuse, which continues to threaten the social fabric of our nation and the future of our young people,” he said.
Mr Murimoga said families were being affected across communities, with addiction contributing to loss of productivity, rising crime and disrupted livelihoods.
He commended Government and other stakeholders for ongoing efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, including awareness campaigns, enforcement operations and rehabilitation programmes.
“At the outset, PAPCOZ extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Zimbabwe for the deliberate and ongoing efforts being undertaken to combat drug and substance abuse,” Mr Murimoga said.
He also acknowledged the role of law enforcement agencies, health institutions, traditional leaders, churches, civil society organisations, educators and families in addressing the problem.
However, Mr Murimoga said more focus was needed on dismantling drug supply networks, arguing that traffickers and dealers were driving the crisis.
“Drug traffickers and peddlers are not merely breaking the law, they are knowingly destroying lives, destabilising families, undermining communities and jeopardising the future of our nation for personal gain,” he said.
