SIMBA RUSHWAYA
President Emmerson Mnangagwa returned to the country Monday night and immediately called for a national dialogue with opposition parties and civil society following a three-day stay away, which claimed six lives after security forces clashed with the rioting public.
The shutdown saw people looting and burning shops especially in the urban centres. Opposition parties blame the security forces for allegedly killing unarmed rioting civilians.
In his first address since returning from Europe, Mnangagwa hinted that heads will roll within the security forces if some of its members were found on the wrong side of the law after the deaths mainly in Harare and its surround areas.
“I invite leaders of all political parties as well as religious and civil leaders to set aside our differences and come together. What unites us is stronger than what could ever divide us. Let’s begin a national dialogue. Let’s put the economy first. Let’s put the people first.
“Likewise, violence or misconduct by our security forces is unacceptable and a betrayal of the new Zimbabwe. Chaos and insubordination will not be tolerated. Misconduct will be investigated. If required, heads will roll.
“What followed was regrettable and tragic. Everyone has the right to protest, but this was not a peaceful protest. Wanton violence and cynical destruction; looting police stations, stealing guns and uniforms; incitement and threats of violence. This is not the Zimbabwean way
“One week ago, I announced measures to stabilize our nation’s crucial fuel supply. I was aware that these measures may not be popular, and this was not a decision we took lightly. But it was the right thing to do,” said Mnangagwa on his Twitter handle.
