The Sunday News
Peter Matika, Senior Reporter
THE Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Ambassador Cain Mathema has assured the nation that peace would prevail in the country, despite malcontents that sought to destabilise the country and challenge a constitutionally elected Government by instigating violence.
In a statement last night, Amb Mathema said people were free to conduct their normal activities, as the environment is conducive. His assurances come in the wake of illegal demonstrations that occurred in Harare where MDC-Alliance supporters clashed with police resulting in the arrest of 91 supporters on Friday.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed officers throughout the country to maintain law and order. The Government of Zimbabwe expects all citizens to co-operate with police officers, as they perform their constitutional responsibilities. My ministry is disturbed by people who disregarded a valid prohibition notice and subsequent High Court of Zimbabwe’s verdict on the intended demonstrations,” said Amb Mathema.
He cautioned members of the public against disregarding the laws of the country.
“No one is above the law especially when it comes to the maintenance of law and order in the country. Those activists who decided to be confrontational and openly disregard police orders will be dealt with in accordance with the law. My ministry is also disturbed that besides the clear position of the law, MDC decided to go ahead with the demonstrations, aided by some NGOs and foreign agencies.
“There is no country in the world that permits anarchy to prevail at the expense of innocent people who would want to conduct their business in peace. My ministry will continue to implore officers to observe human rights during the performance of their duties,” said Amb Mathema.
He said the organisers of demonstrations and protests should take responsibility for the behaviour of their supporters.
“Members of the public are reminded that demonstrations are retrogressive, they will benefit no one but pose as a security threat in the maintenance of law and order in the country. Despite open admission that they were not in control of the situation the MDC leadership went on to occasion the demonstration knowing very well criminal elements may take advantage and cause havoc,” said Amb Mathema.
He urged the country to remain united, peaceful and strive to build a foundation of unity, which would promote development.
“Let us all remember that the rights conferred on individuals or groups in the constitution are for the benefit of all not for manipulation by a particular group or organisation. The Government of Zimbabwe will continue to engage citizens in order to peacefully resolve economic and social problems. This will obviously be undertaken in an environment underpinned by peace, law and order and not acts of destruction.”
The assurance by the Government comes at a time, when the MDC-Alliance is reportedly mobilising its supporters to stage another illegal demonstration in Bulawayo tomorrow.
@peterkmatika
