Political violence in Glenview condemned

Harare – The Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, has directed the police to intensify operations that guard against political violence following skirmishes in Glenview that left one person dead.

Minister Kazembe said the emergence of pockets of political violence is disturbing as it comes a few days before the country goes to the polls.

“I wish to reiterate that the Zimbabwean government does not condone acts of political violence by individuals, groups, or political parties under the guise of campaigning for the elections,” he said.

“My ministry has directed the Commissioner General of Police to arrest perpetrators of political violence without looking at one’s political stature or financial status and identity. Therefore, all malcontents who want to damage the image of the country and discredit the forthcoming elections will have themselves to blame.

“In this regard, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified investigations into the public violence incident which occurred at Chimbumu grounds, Tanaka new stands in Glen View 7, Harare on 3 August 2023,” he said.

Minister Kazembe conveyed his condolences to the family of one of the incident’s victims who passed away at the scene.

“My ministry has directed the Commissioner General of Police to put stern measures in place throughout the country to ensure that the harmonized elections are held in a peaceful, free, fair, and credible environment. The security arms are on high alert to deal with criminal elements decisively before, during, and after the elections,” Minister Kazembe said during a press briefing.

Political violence reared its ugly head in Harere’s Glen View 7 suburb after Citizens Coalition for Change and ZANU PF supporters clashed, leading to one person losing his life.

At least 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the violence.

Zimbabweans will go to the polls to choose a president, parliamentarians, and local authority councillors in less than three weeks.