The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) led by advocate Nelson Chamisa has described the threats as disappointing.

The party has, like some civil society organisations, threatened to take to the streets in protest against the government over the deteriorating state of affairs.

Party spokesperson, Daniel Molokele, said that war veterans must desist from behaviour that causes alarm and despondency in the country. He added that their behaviour was a clear departure from the ethos of the liberation struggle which includes the promotion of peace and stability as well as the fearless exercise of constitutional rights.

“As war heroes and senior citizens of this country, war veterans must always seek to promote peace and stability and they must conduct themselves in a very peaceful and engaging manner,” said Molokele.

The MDC that has been threatening to demonstrate against the government recently announced that the timing was not yet ready for confrontation.

“We, as Zimbabweans, are a peace-loving country and we expect our senior citizens and war veterans to take a lead and ensure that there is peace and stability in this country,” he added.

Molokele’s remarks come after war veterans’ leaders, Defence Minister, Oppah Muchinguri and her deputy, Victor Matemadanda threatened to deploy soldiers “trained to kill” if intended protests take place.

The party has received criticism from supporters who believe that the leadership was using baby-gloves on “a tyrant”.

Chamisa has responded saying that the party would not be cowed into making premature moves that are suicidal in nature.

Pearl Nicodamus

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