Story by Tamuka Charakupa
MASHONALAND West Joint Operations Command (JOC) has denounced the planned illegal protests, warning of punitive legal action against those caught on the wrong side of the law.
Addressing a press conference this Sunday Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo, flanked by JOC said stern measures will be taken against perpetrators of violence.
“Be advised that the security apparatus, will not hesitate to take stern and decisive measures against any individual, groupings and efforts who may seek to disrupt the peace and stability that we have worked hard to attain.”
The Minister also warned against abuse of social media in posting inflammatory statements that destabilise the peace currently being enjoyed.
“I humbly urge all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, the business community and community leaders, to desist from engaging in any activities that may incite violence or disrupt the prevailing peace and tranquility including on social media.”
Local leadership also echoed the same message saying protests undermine developmental milestone projects brought by the Second Republic.
“As the ruling party, we will not tolerate any forms of demonstrations. We have deployed our security personnel to help the national security sector. Our communities should continue with their day-to-day lives,” ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Chairperson Cde Mary-Mliswa Chikoka said.
Meanwhile, a snap survey conducted indicates that it is business as usual in Chinhoyi, Kadoma and Chegutu, proving that progressive citizens are ignoring calls for planned demonstrations.
