Speaking to this publication on condition of anonymity one head of department at the government complex said they were threatened left right and centre as the main protest day drew nearer. “An intimidating letter was circulated,
warning all departmental heads to remain at work or face expulsion. After reading it we were made to sign that we  would not take part in the stay away. I was left with no option but to come to work than stay home and lose my job.
However,  I was with my fellow suffering Zimbabwean in spirit,†said the head of department with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
Another head of department who prayed not to be identified for fear of victimasation, confirmed the threats
by the CIO, Public Service Commission and the President’s office. “Despite their threats I am happy vanhu vazhinji havana kuenda kunorima nechisi (many people took heed of the protest call).
This served as a clear message that that no amount of harassment and intimidation will deter our efforts aimed at liberating ourselves from the bondage of crafted sufferings,†said the top civil servant. This comes at a time when fed up Zimbabweans massively expressed their anger over Zanu PF misrule and empty employment promises through ShutDown Zimbabwe protest.