'Zanu-PF not shaken by Western embassies, failed political parties'

ZANU-PF says it will not be shaken by Western embassies and failed political parties trying to cause anarchy in the country by scuttling progressive policies being implemented by Government.

The revolutionary party's Politburo yesterday said schools, banks and shops should continue with their business today as security organs were on high alert to ensure people's safety.

The Politburo also endorsed the enactment of Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, saying the regulations would resuscitate ailing industries by fighting unfair competition from foreign products.

Briefing journalists after the Politburo meeting in Harare, Zanu-PF secretary for administration Ignatius Chombo said President Mugabe was going nowhere and would continue leading Government in bringing economic emancipation to the people.

"Zanu-PF is focused on what it wants to do and cannot be shaken by these activities," he said. "We're the ruling party, and we will not accept anything short of law and order. The party has it on good authority that the violent demonstrations witnessed in Beitbridge were sponsored by some MDC elements and other opposition parties. We're also aware that persons from across the bridge joined the strike because they were beneficiaries (of the import goods).

"In Harare, these demonstrations have been led by leaders of vendors' associations, some other shadowy groups calling themselves by various names, and we know that they're being sponsored by Western embassies and some failed parties and politicians."

Chombo added: "The State security organs are working around the clock, and have the situation firmly under control. Those found on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with severely, and they'll have no one else to blame. They're being seriously warned to desist from this wanton behaviour.

"Commuter operators are assured of police protection and shouldn't fear to do their work. All teachers and school children should also go to their schools without fear because security elements will be there to assure their safety. The regime change agenda that is being pursued by the West will come to naught. Banks, shops and schools have timetables and programmes, and they should follow that. There is no reason why they shouldn't open, and I hope tomorrow (today) they'll open."

Chombo said there was no going back on SI 64 of 2016.

"The Politburo has fully endorsed the enactment of Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 by Government through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce," he said.

On disciplinary cases brought by the National Appeals and Review Committee headed by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, Chombo said the Politburo had deliberated on the cases of the 13 expelled youth leaders and party cadres suspended for between three to five years. "All the appeals against expulsion by the 13 were unsuccessful and this means the Politburo has fully endorsed the decision for the group to remain expelled," he said.

"This was due to the severity of the case. Eight party members were suspended for five years, and one member was acquitted and the other seven cases were referred back to the National Disciplinary Committee for review. Eight party members were suspended for three years, and one member's suspension was lifted while another member has actually been expelled as his behaviour has become worse, which is totally unacceptable to the party. Another member's suspension has been reduced from three to two years as she has been apologetic and remorseful. The rest of the cases have been referred back to the NDC and other cases will be heard next Friday when the Appeals Committee meets again."

President Mugabe was in Masvingo last week.

Tomorrow he is also expected to address a rally at Chipadze Stadium in Bindura.