Zivhu warns traders against violence

Zimbabwe Cross-Border Traders Association president Mr Killer Zivhu has warned traders against engaging in violent demonstrations as this will not improve the situation but derail development.

This follows messages circulating on social media mobilising people to take to the streets tomorrow and demonstrate against Government.

Mr Zivhu said while the association was disgruntled by the import restrictions by Government, the organisation had other ways of finding solutions peacefully.

Government recently removed a number of products from the Open General Import Licence.

"Traders should ignore messages circulating on WhatsApp encouraging uprisings on Wednesday. It is not wise to follow calls from undisclosed sources. We do not know the source of the message and therefore we will not be part of the demonstrations.

"Those who comply with the messages circulating on social media risk being arrested. If you are arrested, no one will protect you and no one will assist you," he said.

Mr Zivhu said people should not destroy property when disgruntled as this affects development: "It is not a secret that people are suffering. Government is aware that people are suffering and is even failing to pay civil servants their salaries. This is due to sanctions.

"This is not the first time that Zimbabwe has experienced difficulties. The situation was dire in 2008 so now people should find solutions through dialogue. Let us not destroy the little that we have and spend the rest of our lives trying to rebuild what we would have destroyed," he said.

Mr Zivhu complained that the import restrictions had affected many Zimbabweans who relied on cross-border trading. He said Government should have made wider consultations before coming up with the legislation. He acknowledged the need to support the local industry but said Government should also consider livelihoods of the poor.

"While we want to promote the Buy Zimbabwe concept we should not ignore the majority in cross-border trading to support the few who are on jobs.

"Our local companies are also presenting challenges as they manufacture, operate wholesalers and retailers and this does not give room for buying and selling. Can we buy from the manufacturers and also sell to earn a living?" he said.

Mr Zivhu said his association was planning to hold rallies in all provinces to educate and inform the public on the latest developments and how affected parties can deal with the challenge.

"We will not go to the streets or engage in violence. But we will solve this through boardroom meetings with the responsible ministries.

The introduction of permits has led to an increase in corruption as there are many people applying for them. We would want to apply for bulk permits as some of our members cannot qualify for permits," he said.