PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated calls for the nation to shun political violence as the country heads towards the 2023 general election.
This comes just a day after the ruling party Zanu PF held its primary elections which were marred by violence and vote rigging.
Speaking during the official opening of the Epworth Magistrates Court Monday, Mnangagwa called upon Zimbabweans to be peaceful in the upcoming polls.
“As you are aware, the 2023 harmonised elections are fast approaching. I therefore, call upon all our people, including political parties, civil society organisations, religious institutions, and the media to always promote peace. Where we differ, violence must not be an answer or strategy.
“We are all Zimbabweans first and foremost, brothers and sisters and we must never inflict violence upon ourselves in the name of diverging views. Let us sustain the prevailing peace, unity, love and harmony, focused on nation building.
“Our courts, which are designated to deal with violence, are called upon to deal decisively without fear or favour any cases, including those who seek to incite or instigate disorder, mayhem and chaos,” Mnangagwa said.
Meanwhile in Chegutu West constituency, some Zanu PF activists were left injured after losing candidate Dexter Nduna, allegedly funded thugs to intimidate and assault supporters of his main opponent.
A Zanu-PF official in Mazowe North has been arrested by the Mvurwi Zimbawe Republic Police (ZRP) after being caught with 651 ballot papers from the party’s primarily elections held on weekend.
Political analysts and experts are also predicting a bloody general election.
