By Staff Writer
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has been ordered to allow the opposition political parties to convene their rallies forthwith in a climb down ahead of the make or break 2023 polls.
Last week the main opposition political party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) endured excruciating four bans of their rallies after the police issued several trivial reasons which ranged from excuses that the venues had either been booked or were under developed.
Irked by the excuses CCC lodged an urgent application with the High Court which in turn delivered a ruling directing the Magistrates Courts to give an ear to the opposition’s application.
The matter has already attracted international scrutiny especially after considering that the ruling Zanu-pf party has never faced similar challenges.
In a statement over the weekend, CCC accused the ZRP of working in cahoots with the ruling party to frustrate the party’s activities.
But in a major climb down , ZRP Commander 2023 Elections issued a chilling warning to his subordinates ordering the lowering of barriers on the political landscape.
He reminded all police commanders that the errant and illegal behavior of blocking the convening of political rallies is tantamount to discrediting the 2023 polls.
“President Emmerson Mnangagwa has on numerous occasions preached the gospel of peace and tolerance ahead of the impending elections.
“ It is against this background that commanders are urged to ensure that all processes relating to elections are done peacefully and in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act Chapter 2:13 and the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA) Chapter 11:23,” the Memo to all ZRP districts said.
The document raised concerns that of late social media has been awash with incidences where some political parties claim to have been denied the right to hold rallies.
Commanders were reminded to note that for elections to be deemed free, fair , peaceful and credible the playing field should be reckoned as level , hence be mindful that their actions should not discredit the electoral processes.
“The Regulatory Authorities should acquaint themselves with the provisions of the Electoral Act and MOPA so as to make informed decisions .The purpose of this legal instrument is for the police to prepare and take actions aimed at ensuring that any political activity is done peacefully.
“Addressees to acknowledge receipt of this signal by 1000 hours on Monday 10 July 2023,” the Memo added.
