by Staff reporter
Spreading falsehoods on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the nation’s leadership is not only unacceptable, but unethical in a democratic society.
In a press statement yesterday on fake news during the COVID-19 pandemic, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Permanent Secretary Aaron Nhepera said Government had noted with deep concern, on recent developments where mainstream media, social media and individuals were spreading falsehoods on how the COVID-19 pandemic was affecting the nation’s leadership.
“Let us be reminded that such acts, have the effect of causing alarm and despondency, not only to the individuals affected and their families, but to the nation as a whole. This has a destabilising effect at a time the nation is grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic,” reads part of the statement.
Nhepera urged members of the public to desist from such tendencies that infringe on other people’s rights and cause unnecessary distress and anguish among the people affected.
Among those affected by the falsehoods cited in the statement are Honourable Vice Presidents, Dr Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Senate Deputy President, Lietenant General Rtd, Mike Nyambuya and Zanu PF National Political Commissar, Victor Matemadanda.
Nhepera acknowledged the fact that COVID-19 has dealt a devastating blow to the people’s social circles affecting close family members, acquaintances, colleagues and many other dear friends. “This is indeed a reality which gives no justification for anyone to spread blatant falsehoods that have the effect of destabilising the nation,” he said.
Nhepera urged Zimbabwean citizens to focus on strict observance of the World Health Organisation (WHO) regulations on COVID-19 and adhere to the national lockdown restrictions. He also urges citizens to heed to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s address on 23 January 2021, where he encouraged Zimbabweans to unite against COVID-19, urging people to respect COVID-19 regulations for the good of the nation.
As at 25 January 2021, the country had 31646 confirmed cases including 22877 recoveries and 1075 deaths.
