The military has no direct role in the upcoming harmonised elections and commits itself to upholding the provisions of the Constitution, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has declared.

By Brightface Mutema

While addressing members of different media houses at the Defence House in Harare, ZDF Public Relations Director, Colonel Overson Mugwisi said that the army would not be involved in the forthcoming general elections.

He was dispelling reckless media claims that the army was actively involved behind the scenes in canvassing support for Zanu PF while intimidating opposition supporters.

“Our role in the elections is mainly to support the Zimbabwe Republic Police in their role of maintaining law and order in the country before, during and after the harmonised elections,” said Col Mugwisi.

Col. Mugwisi added that, “Falsehoods that have been reported include allegations of ZDF deployments in rural areas to intimidate villagers so that they support a certain political party to enhance that party’s chances of winning in the harmonised elections.”

He clarified that the presence of ZDF members at political rallies attended by VIPs and VVIPs should not be taken for any political inclination but that it was some of the official duties of the army.

Col. Mugwisi reiterated that while the ZDF remained committed to discharging its mandate according to the dictates of the law, the media should also endeavour to report objectively and shun falsehoods.

He said, “As we remain committed to fulfilling our Constitutional mandate, we implore members of the media to report objectively and responsibly.”

“Furthermore, it should be noted that members of the ZDF like any other citizens, are not barred from exercising their right to vote for any political party of their choice in national elections,” said Col. Mugwisi.