The Sunday News
Vincent Gono
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has called for an independent investigation into Wednesday’s skirmishes in Harare that led to the death of three people during violent protests by MDC Alliance supporters.
He passed his condolences to the families of the deceased and said he was engaging the opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa to discuss the need to urgently restore order.
“I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the families of the victims of yesterday’s violence. All human life is sacred, and their deaths are a tragedy, irrespective of the circumstances. I would also like to wish a speedy recovery to all those injured in yesterday’s events.
“I am therefore calling for an independent investigation into what occurred in Harare yesterday. We believe in transparency and accountability, and those responsible should be identified and brought to justice,” said President Mnangagwa in a message on his twitter account on Thursday.
He added, “They, alongside the families of the victims, are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. The most important thing for us now is to move beyond yesterday’s tragic events, and to move forward, together.
“We have been in communication with Nelson Chamisa to discuss how to immediately diffuse the situation, and we must maintain this dialogue in order to protect the peace we hold dear.”
He called for the people of Zimbabwe to remain untied and maintain peace.
“It is also more important than ever that we are united, and commit to settling our differences peacefully and respectfully, and within the confines of the law,” he said.
MDC Alliance supporters went on rampage in Harare destroying property, torching vehicles, blocking pavements and attacking pedestrians in Harare’s Central Business District.
Police tried to control them but failed due to depleted manpower as a result of election deployment. The army had to be called in to assist the police.
The MDC Alliance that recorded heavy losses at the hands of the ruling Zanu- PF in the parliamentary elections, claimed the elections were rigged.
