Staff Reporter

Political analysts have welcomed the passing of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Bill (Criminal Code), often referred to as the Patriotic Act, which contains a clause that criminalises "wilfully damaging the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe."

Political analysts who spoke to this publication expressed their gratitude towards the Government for passing the Patriotic Act, saying that it was long overdue given that some opposition elements and members of the civic society were engaging hostile country's speaking ill about Zimbabwe in pursuit of their interests.

Terrence Chipwanya, a political analyst, urged Zimbabweans to support the Act as it served the purpose of protecting their interests.

"Drawing from similar pieces of legislation such as the Logan Act in the United States, which outlaws consorting with foreign nations against the State, the Patriotic Act is a welcome piece of legislation that will go a long way in instilling some sense of responsibility on the country’s self-hating opposition parties that have a fixation with making people suffer to get into power. The Patriotic Act has been long overdue since we have been seeing and hearing certain unpatriotic elements from the opposition party go as far as to international countries to speak ill of their own country," said Chipwanya.

Another political analyst, Nelson Gafa, noted that the Act would help instil a sense of patriotism and love for the country in Zimbabweans.

"This Act is intended to instil patriotism which every citizen is duty bound to uphold. It focuses on the promotion and safeguarding of the national interests of the country," Gafa said

Gafa added that genuine Zimbabwe should embrace the Patriotic Act and not castigate it.

"This Act should be welcomed by everyone who is in support of the furtherance of development in this country. The days of going around the world and spreading lies about the Government are over. Zimbabwe is on the path to economic recovery," said Gafa.

The Patriotic Act is the most significant law in our nation’s history to help mould patriotism as well as strengthen the country’s sovereignty through the criminalization of conduct that undermine Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, dignity, independence, and national interests.