Staff Reporter

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has urged citizens to reject the planned March 31 protests, warning that they could lead to instability and potential violence.

In a statement released yesterday, the coalition made a direct appeal for calm, saying, “It is in this light that the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition is appealing to the political leaders in Zimbabwe to prioritize peace and dialogue to solve their differences in order to guarantee the safety of citizens.”

The organization also raised concerns about recent violent incidents. “On March 28th, the country woke up to images of bombed cars at the offices of alleged pro-Government officials,” the coalition noted, highlighting the dangers of escalating tensions.

Furthermore, the coalition warned that instability in Zimbabwe could have broader regional consequences.

“We are worried that the volatile situation, if not handled properly, has the potential to plunge the country into a civil war as witnessed in South Sudan, and ultimately add to the hotspots of instability to the Southern African region.

We firmly believe only dialogue and peace will provide a conclusive and sustainable resolution of the current crisis in Zimbabwe,” they added.

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition’s message is clear, street demonstrations will only fuel instability, and the path forward must be one of peaceful negotiation and dialogue.

Meanwhile, joining CiZC in its progressive call for peace, are a group of local artists have also united to advocate for calm and harmony. Notably, Holy Ten and Dorcas Moyo took to social media platforms, Instagram and Facebook respectively, encouraging Zimbabweans to maintain peace.

Staff Reporter

Vendors in Harare have dismissed the planned March 31 protests, stating that they will continue their daily business activities without disruption. They emphasized that previous demonstrations had negatively impacted their livelihoods, and they are not willing to participate in any activities that could jeopardize their income generating activities.

In interviews with Harare Post, informal traders expressed their frustration with past protests that led to violence and destruction of property. Many argued that such disturbances do not benefit ordinary citizens but rather disrupt their ability to work and provide for their families.

“As Mbare residents, we are against the protests that have been planned for March 31. Previous demonstrations disturbed our work. We are entrepreneurs, and such disturbances affect our ability to earn a living,” said Takudzwa Moyo.

Another trader, Esther Kamulanji, reiterated that selling is their primary means of survival and that they will not be deterred by calls for protests.

“Selling is the source of our livelihoods. We will go about our business as usual. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has reassured us of our safety,” Kamulanji stated.

Other vendors echoed these sentiments, arguing that they have families to feed and cannot afford to lose business due to politically motivated disruptions. Many traders depend on daily earnings to meet their financial obligations, and any form of instability directly affects their ability to sustain their households.

A commuter omnibus driver also urged the public to remain peaceful and avoid participating in demonstrations that could lead to unnecessary disruptions.

“As transport operators, we want a peaceful environment to continue working. Any form of violence or instability affects our operations and earnings. We encourage everyone to reject these protests and focus on their daily activities,” he said.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has assured residents and business owners that security measures have been put in place to ensure public safety. Authorities have warned against any unlawful gatherings and have pledged to maintain peace and order in the capital.

 

Innocent Mujeri

In any democratic society, grievances and disagreements are inevitable. However, the manner in which they are addressed determines whether a nation moves forward in peace or descends into chaos. The recent series of arson attacks targeting private properties, vehicles, and business premises in Harare and Goromonzi have sent shockwaves throughout the country.