Mr. Speaker Sir, Section 86 of the Constitution says fundamental rights and freedoms must be exercised reasonably and with due regard to the rights and freedoms of others. As people demonstrate, it does not follow that the majority would want to see demonstrations, see looting or that the majority share political persuasions and views of those that will be demonstrating. So, as they exercise that, they should take due regard for the rights of others.
Section 206 (1) of the Constitution talks about national security. It says “ the national security objectives of Zimbabwe must reflect the resolve of Zimbabweans to live as equals in liberty, peace and harmony, free from fear and in prosperity” but if we go to Section 219 (1) (b) it is clear on the functions of the police. It says “there is a police force or police service which is responsible for preserving the internal security of Zimbabwe.” So, when police officers are deployed in streets with baton sticks or fire arms to protect other innocent citizens we should not cry foul.
Police also have a duty to protect and secure the lives and property of the people. If a police vehicle or ZBC vehicle are being burnt, they have a right to move in and make sure that they quench such disturbances. They also have a right to maintain law and order and this entails that the police cannot be bystanders when property is being burnt to ashes by protestors. This august House should stand up and resolve to condemn acts of violence. It should also condemn protests that have been targeted on innocent civilians and political malcontents that are misguided in their political persuasions to cause disturbilisation in this peaceful country. We encourage the Commissioner General of the police to work thoroughly and get these political malcontents and bring them to book.
If necessary, the Minister of Finance should allocate financial resources that are adequate for the cause of our police force, a police force that the majority of Zimbabweans are proud of except a few that have been spoilt by western beliefs. Mr. Speaker Sir, opposition parties have themselves to blame if they do not win elections because the majority of Zimbabweans would like to live in peace and that peace has ably demonstrated that peace has been with us for 37 years because of ZANU PF Government. I thank you Mr. Speaker Sir.
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