By Staff Reporter
Harare – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) claims it has uncovered a plot by opposition forces to unleash violent protests, which authorities say they are prepared to decisively crush.
In a statement released Wednesday, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi alleged the planned demonstrations were intended to cause widespread destruction, targeting buildings and other property.
Nyathi named opposition figures Jacob Ngarivhume, leader of Transform Zimbabwe, and Amos Chibaya, a former CCC MP for Mkoba, among those accused of instigating the unrest.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns individuals and groups who have been identified as instigators, inciters and ringleaders of criminal elements who intend to unleash violence which include Malicious Damage to Property, by burning tyres and destroying buildings, that the full wrath of the law will be effected without fear or favour,” Nyathi said.
“Some of the suspects have been identified as Jacob Ngarivhume and Amos Chibaya.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police and other security agencies are fully alert and will decisively deal with unruly elements who intend to disturb the existing peaceful environment.”
While the spokesperson named the two politicians, he did not elaborate on the specific evidence linking them to the alleged protest plans.
The police warning comes in the wake of recent calls by Blessed Geza, a former Zanu PF central committee member, for mass action and a nationwide stayaway to force President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation.
Mnangagwa, who has led Zimbabwe since 2017, faces growing criticism over alleged high-level corruption and concerns that he is seeking to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated two-term limit set to end in 2028.
