Government has no reason to harass Chamisa- Mutsvangwa says

Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has dismissed reports that there was an attempt to kidnap opposition leader Nelson Chamisa at Mabvuku yesterday while on his way from Marondera.

She said Chamisa instead manhandled motorists who were travelling behind him when his convoy blocked them and aggressively confronted them.

“Government is dismayed at the imputation that state agents would attempt to abduct opposition leaders,” Mutsvangwa said in a statement.

“The notion is not only false but also mischievous moreso taken in light of efforts by government to harmonise all laws and practice of the constitution.

“Reports filed with the police indicate that some people were coming from Marondera, driving behind what they later learnt to be Mr Chamisa’s convoy.

“Suddenly, the convoy stopped and blocked them from overtaking, they were aggressively confronted and manhandled by members of Mr Chamisa’s entourage including Mr Chamisa who lobbed himself at the back seat of their vehicle punching and scratching.

“The victims (just ordinary citizens going about their own business until the attack) have reported this matter to the police who are carrying out further investigations, this would appear to be a road rage incident.”

Mutsvangwa said President Emmerson Mnangagwa recognised the role of the opposition and wanted to create the position of leader of opposition paid by the State and security agents were quite aware of this.

“The President Department is awake to the call by the New Dispensation to operate within the confines of the constitution…….[and] also alert to the vision held by His Excellence the President of Zimbabwe to establish the institution of opposition by having an official leader of the opposition in parliament whose office is funded by the state. The department subjects itself to the authority of the constitution, the President and the aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe and would not act contrary to that ethos,” the minister said.

Reacting to a tweet on the Ministry of Information page, one going by the name of Cde Guerilla said: “With all due respect Mrs  Monica Mutsvangwa is too junior to address the nation on this flagrant assault to democracy. We need the self proclaimed President @edmnangagwa to go live on TV & explain this banana republic conduct.”

Chuwe Tavada Mugura disagreed: “You are dancing to his theatrics. The chap is seeking relevance in an environment where the desperation to be in gvt (together with Biti) is growing by the day. Use this statement.”

Bernard Alexander added: “Please please dont waste time on unnecessary issues. Save that energy for something else, especially what will promote our economic growth. Dont give this Chamisa much attention, he is now an ordinary Zimbo like me.”

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