By Takudzwa Changadeya
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has deployed security officers nationwide amidst indications that certain political activists are planning to organize demonstrations in the wake of last week’s undisputed elections.
ZRP said the decision to increase security measures aims to safeguard citizens and prevent any potential disruption to regular activities.
Main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa rejected Zimbabwe’s general election results based on disputed figures, arguing that his party’s V11s were not aligning with that of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC),
In a statement, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police has deployed police officers throughout the country to maintain law and order.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is fully aware of attempts by some political activists to mobilize groups of people to move in small numbers and come to Harare for purported briefing and popcorn demonstrations under the guise of citizen voter audit or verification.
“This has even been given credence by some social media posts obtained by the Police where some individuals and groups are openly inciting violence and issuing threats aimed at causing alarm and despondence among Zimbabweans. The Police will not hesitate to effect arrests on such criminal elements,” Nyathi said.
Police authorities expressed their commitment to maintaining peace and order and ensuring public safety.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that the situation in the country is very calm and the public should certainly feel free to go about their day to day activities,” Nyathi said.
Meanwhile, Nyathi urged political parties to assist ZRP in the maintenance of law and order in the country by avoiding unsanctioned gatherings without notifying the local regulating authority.
“Any form of unlawful political gatherings will be dealt with by the police in terms of the country’s laws,” Nyathi added.
