Political Reporter
Reports have surfaced that the country's detractors are working tirelessly to disrupt the upcoming Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, which is set to be hosted by Zimbabwe next month.
These detractors have allegedly enlisted the help of anti-government organizations, using them as foot soldiers to create chaos and tarnish the country's image ahead of the high-profile event.
A source privy to the details revealed that the Zimbabwe Youth Alliance (ZYA), an organization primarily composed of known opposition figures, has been co-opted to engage in disruptive activities.
"The detractors are determined to cause disruptions at the SADC Summit. They have recruited the Zimbabwe Youth Alliance, whose members are well-known opposition figures, to carry out chaotic activities designed to damage Zimbabwe's reputation on the international stage," the source disclosed.
The ZYA has reportedly been instructed by its handlers to mobilize demonstrations at the SADC offices in Botswana between August 7 and 14.
These demonstrations are intended to urge regional leaders not to allow Zimbabwe to assume the SADC Chairmanship.
The source further added that both the ZYA and the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) are receiving funding to replicate the chaos currently seen in Kenya.
The ZYA is already rocked by factional fights where some members are demanding that opposition political leaders should lead from the front and mobilise enough resources to cater for the welfare of protesters in the event of casualties, instead of pushing youths to protest.
Furthermore, the source highlighted the issue of resource constrains which is affecting smooth mobilisation on the ground, a development which is already disheartening and demotivating some members.
Political commentator Calvin Chitsunge expressed dismay over these developments, criticizing those involved for undermining the nation's efforts to present a positive image to the international community.
"It is disheartening to see some Zimbabweans being used by the country's detractors at a time when the country is doing all it can to market its positive image to the international community. This betrayal only serves to harm the nation and its people," Chitsunge stated.
Chitsunge also called on law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against any individuals or groups attempting to disturb the peace.
"The law enforcement agents must descend heavily on anyone or any group that seeks to disrupt the peace currently prevailing in the country. Such actions cannot be tolerated, especially with such an important event on the horizon," he urged.
In response to these threats, the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, has reiterated on multiple occasions that the police will not hesitate to curb all forms of violence or chaos.
With the eyes of the region and the world on Zimbabwe, the Government remains steadfast in its commitment to hosting a peaceful and successful SADC Summit, despite the efforts of those seeking to undermine it.
