Mugabe calls for unity

The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Robert Mugabe has called for unity of purpose for the development of the country.

He said this while addressing thousands of people at the Heroes Day commemorations at the National Heroes Acre in Harare today.

Mugabe paid tribute to the gallant sons and daughters of the soil who perished during and after the liberation struggle, saying Zimbabweans need to respect their sacrifice by working together regardless of political differences.

Mugabe expressed concern at the protests against the introduction of Statutory Instrument 64, which he said is meant to protect the local industry.

"We say no to such actions, there is no country globally that allows dumping and does not protect its industry," said Mugabe, adding that people must understand the motive behind SI64.

He warned other groups, including political parties and individuals such as Pastor Evan Mawarire for leading current demonstrations.

"If you want to show that you can throw stones at police officers, we won't accept that. For those political parties who after failing dismally in elections and see these protests as a way to unseat this government, remember we were elected into office. If you want your presence to be felt, then remember we are also there," Mugabe warned.

On drought, the President said government will continue to import food to address the problem, adding that all Zimbabweans across the political divide will benefit.

"No Zimbabwean will starve as the government will continue importing grain o mitigate against the E-Nino induced drought. We say no to discrimination during food distribution, on whatever grounds, be they ethnic, tribal, and political belonging or affiliation," he said.

"From December, the government will embark on command agriculture to encourage the production of food crops, a development aimed at ensuring food security in the country," added Mugabe.

He then hailed the new curriculum to be implemented in the education sector, saying it will help the country churn out students with skills relevant to the ever-changing global demands.

Other commemorations were held in several centers across the country as the nation remembers the gallant sons and daughters of the soil who sacrificed their lives for a free and independent Zimbabwe.