NPRC convenes meeting to tackle conflict prior to ...

NPRC convenes meeting to tackle conflict prior to harmonised elections

Obert Gutu Biography, Zanu-PF Member, Former MDC, Age - Pindula — Obert Gutu

Zim Now Writer

Besides the issue of land redistribution that dates back to 2000, elections also have the potential to ignite conflict, a meeting convened by the National Peace Reconciliation Commission in Harare on Wednesday agreed..

The meeting got together stakeholders from various organisations which included the Zimbabwe Election Commission, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and various political parties. It was the first after the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.

ZEC Deputy Election Officer Givemore Masongorera told the gathering Zimbabwe must not become another area for conflict, but rather for electoral processes and outcomes.

“l want to believe that other than the land issue which goes as far back as 2000, there can be no other fertile ground for conflict in Zimbabwe other than electoral processes and outcomes.

“It (elections) is one area that is so fertile for conflicts and l really think we should be really focused on that and ensure we all have all our hands on the deck. It is appropriate that we meet at this juncture to solidify our position around eradication of conflict,” he said.

Contributing to same, Commissioner Advocate Mr. Obert C Gutu said the covid 19 pandemic had affected the interaction of NPRC and its peace structures.

“Individually and collectively, the promotion of unity, peace and cohesion in Zimbabwe is ideal and personally, I also appreciate the support and guidance that we continuously receive from you, the stakeholders, even in the absence of physical contact since our NPRC last formal meeting.

The ZRP, through Assistant Commissioner Wilson Engelbart said:

“As ZRP we are mandated by the constitution of Zimbabwe to maintain peace in accordance with Section 219 of the Constitution. It is against this background that ZRP has come up with some conflict preventative strategies before, during and after elections.

“The general duties and responsibilities of all the police officers before and after elections have been spelt out which include enforcing law and order at campaign meetings or political rallies, processions and public demonstrations.

“Secondly, the need to respect the fundamentals of people to lawful association and assembly and to freely express themselves. Police shall refrain from disrupting campaigns and rallies or meetings which are convened by any political party."

One of the political parties present, Zanu PF, through it representative Mrs. Christine Tichaona said hailed the NPRC for encouraging peaceful elections.

“We are encouraging our members to refrain from violence in the country. Our ZANU PF motto is unity, peace and development. So far as ZANU PF we are having peaceful engagements. We are not tolerating violence,” she said.