By Zivanai Dhewa
Maynard Kudakwashe Manyowa, one of the witnesses who testified before the Commission of Inquiry is living in fear as his life and that of his loved ones have been threatened for giving his testimony.
In his press statement, Manyowa explains that pictures of his property have been exposed on various social media accounts with threats of causing physical harm and death to his family and employees.
Responding to Manyowa’s statement, spokesperson of the Commission of Inquiry, Mr John Masuku expressed concern over the threats and has called on the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to look into the allegations.
“The Commission of Inquiry implores the ZRP and other law enforcement agents to urgently and fully investigate Mr Manyowa’s allegations and bring to book all perpetrators of verbal and physical violence or abuse who cause harm, despondency and discouragement to citizens who have freely testified before it,” said Mr Masuku
The Commission of Inquiry further pledged its commitment to the protection of the witnesses that appear before it.
“The Commission reiterates that it is fully committed to protecting all citizens who appear before it, through law enforcement agents,” Mr Masuku added.
He further added that, “The courts have since made a judgement in favour of their unperturbed continuation of duty with the right to ask questions without any threats or hindrance.”
It is to be noted that in his testimony, Manyowa produced as part of his testimony a video showing Movement for Democratic Change Alliance (MDC A) supporters carrying sticks and knobkerries, while throwing stones and bricks, singing songs that insinuated they were ready to take the country to war if the results failed to pronounce Nelson Chamisa as president.
The Commission of Inquiry further rebuked witnesses and the audience that want to embarrass its witnesses.
“Finally the Commission urges all citizens who attend public hearings to give the opportunity to all those giving testimonies without interjections, heckling and demeaning,” the Commission said.
