By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Security services in Zimbabwe are on high alert, ensuring public safety as the government reassures citizens and visitors of a secure environment for socio-economic activities, according to Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe.
In a press conference held in Harare on Wednesday, Minister Kazembe announced that the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has made adequate deployments to maintain public order and stability amidst growing concerns over illegal activities being instigated by rogue elements.
He specifically mentioned organized mobilization efforts via social media and misleading press statements aimed at inciting unlawful gatherings.
“The Government of Zimbabwe notes with deep concern the mobilization efforts by criminally-inclined individuals and groups inciting peace-loving Zimbabweans,” Kazembe stated.
“These illegal acts undermine the prevailing security, peace, and stability. Their self-seeking, subversive, and anti-development endeavors have been exposed,” he added.
Furthermore, Kazembe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and territorial integrity, ensuring that citizens can conduct their daily lives without fear.
He urged the public to comply with legal standards, specifically referencing Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act and the Cyber Security and Data Protection Act, which penalize the incitement of violence through electronic means.
“Anyone who unlawfully engages in transmitting or distributing data messages with the intent to incite acts of violence will face legal consequences,” the Minister emphasized.
He also addressed the issue of coercion, warning against the intimidation of individuals to participate in illegal gatherings or activities, promising that offenders would be prosecuted rigorously.
Kazembe called on all peace-loving citizens to report any incidents of violence or public disorder, reinforcing the message that the police will act decisively against such behaviors.
In closing, Minister Kazembe urged Zimbabweans to remain law-abiding, highlighting that security and stability are essential for achieving the nation’s goal of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.