Residents from political wards 9 and 12 here told The Zimbabwean that pockets of rowdy Zanu (PF) youths threatened people donning the non-violence T-Shirts with unspecified action. “We have been barred from wearing the T-Shirts in public as they are regarded as MDC. The threats came as a surprise to most of us, as the CCDZ campaign is non-partisan and open to people from across the political divide,” said a resident, Timothy Murwira.
Local CCDZ coordinator, Samuel Kamundarira, confirmed the threats and said the peace campaign targeted all residents, as it was meant to educate people about the importance of political tolerance around communities.
“The exercise is apolitical and a right step towards eradication of political violence among the electorate from across the political divide. Basically, No right thinking individual would fight against such a people centered project,” said Kamundarira.
Director for CCDZ, Philip Pasirayi, said: “Our peace initiatives, despite their good intentions, are not only under siege in Marondera, but in other centers such as Gokwe. It seems there are some people who fail to understand our objectives regarding peace promotion. People should be taught about importance of co-existence and embrace divergent political views.”
Post published in: News