Mnangagwa says violence will not reform the economy or rebuild the country

President Emmerson Mnangagwa today lamented violence in the country, saying it was “not the Zimbabwean way”.

In a statement on his official Twitter account — captioned “we are one nation, with one mission, and we will realise it together” — Mnangagwa said: “As I have said numerous times, everyone in Zimbabwe has the right to express themselves freely — to speak out, to criticise and to protest. Unfortunately, what we have witnessed is violence and vandalism instead of peaceful, legal protests.”

It is not clear whether Mnangagwa was not aware that social media had been shut down since mid-morning yesterday until early this evening but the President said he was deeply saddened by the events in Zimbabwe which he said had occurred while he was in Russia working on agreements to give the economy a much needed boost.

“Wanton violence and cynical destruction is not the Zimbabwean way,” he said. “My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

“What we have witnessed is violence and vandalism instead of peaceful, legal protests. There can be no justification for violence, against people and property. Violence will not reform our economy. Violence will not rebuild our country.

“What will lead to a stronger economy is investment. That is why I travelled to Moscow, and that is why I will be travelling on to other countries in the region and then the World Economic Forum in Davos.

“In 48 hours in Moscow, there are signs that serious investment is on the way. Alrosa, the world’s largest diamond company, has decided to launch operations in Zimbabwe, and we have also signed a series of important agreements that will lead to investment development and jobs.

“I understand the pain and frustration that many of you are feeling. Resolving Zimbabwe’s economic challenges is a monumental task, and while it may not always feel that way, we are moving in the right direction. We will get there.

“In the meantime. I call for calm and peace from all our brothers and sisters. We are one nation, with one mission, and we will realise it together.”-Own/Timeslive

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