Police warn citizens against involvement in violence following electoral dispute

By Xinhua

HARARE: Zimbabwean police on Tuesday warned that they would deal decisively with anyone bent on causing public violence or holding unsanctioned gatherings, following disputes which have arisen from the recently held elections in the country.

Emmerson Mnangagwa of the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU PF) was at the weekend announced the winner of the presidential election with 52.6 percent of the vote, followed by Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change with 44 percent, according to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

Chamisa has disputed the results, while Mnangagwa and his party say that they won a free and fair contest.

Many people have taken to social media to express their opinions, with some claiming that the elections were not credible, while others are defending ZEC and insisting that the playing ground was level.

Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said they were on full alert following threats of violence.

“The police have taken note of offensive messages circulating on social media platforms openly agitating for violence and illegal gatherings, especially in Harare and Bulawayo,” Nyathi said.

“The public is accordingly advised to ignore these messages. The Zimbabwe Republic Police is on full alert and will deal decisively with unruly elements bent on disturbing the current peaceful environment in the country,” he said.