POLITICAL drama continues to unfold in Zimbabwe as the Residents Forum alleges that the thousands of people who were marching today in support of President Robert Mugabe, following a unprecedented wave of protests both at home and in the Diaspora against his misgovernance.
“It has come to the Residents Forum’s attention that today 20 July 2016 the ruling party has mobilised people within the suburbs of Harare and neighboring provinces for their march against protesters claiming that they are going to issue residential stands to them. This is uncalled for and unexpected in a democracy. This is manipulation of people’s desperation for shelter.” says the Residents Forum
Hundreds of youths took to the streets of Harare today declaring their support for Mugabe and denouncing a group calling itself #Tajamuka and Pastor Evan Mawarire, who have been vocal in mobilising people to boycott and protest against Mugabe’s administration
The youths were also asking Zimbabwean police commissioner, Augustine Chihuri to allow them to “deal” with the group and Pastor Mawarira.
“As representatives of the residents we feel and believe that the use of residential stands as a campaign tool for any political party is a serious breach of the right of persons. Land is both a human and constitutional right hence politicizing it is illegal and unconstitutional. Using land for political expedience by any political grouping must be resisted and condemned,” add the Residents Froum adding that they expect the government through local authorities to issue out stands.
“Residents Forum will engage the minister responsible for local authorities and Harare City Council over this irrational, discriminatory and oppressive exercise,”adds the body.
#Tajamuka and Mawirira’s message to stage protests have spread even beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, to countries like South Africa, UK and the US among others.
Meanwhile #Tajamuka in East London, have announced that they will stage more protests in Port Elizabeth on July 30.
– Patience Rusere
-Patience Rusere
