News / National
MPs demand answers on machete sales in Bulawayo
6 hrs ago | Views
Legislators from Bulawayo have raised serious concerns in the National Assembly over the government's policy on the ownership and sale of machetes, following a disturbing increase in violent attacks linked to suspected machete gangs in the city.
During a recent parliamentary session, Emakhandeni-Luveve MP Descent Bajila questioned Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi on what steps the government was taking to control the availability and use of machetes within communities.
Bajila sought clarity on the criteria used before the government issues any proclamations restricting machete possession. "What considerations come into play for that kind of proclamation to come from the minister?" he asked.
Bulawayo North MP Minenhle Gumede added to the concerns by inquiring if the government plans to strengthen legislation governing machete sales and use, and whether stricter controls would be introduced, particularly in areas where machete-related violence has surged.
Minister Ziyambi responded by emphasizing that the sale of machetes and knives is legal under current laws, but noted that prohibitions on carrying such items can be gazetted for specific areas as needed for security purposes.
"Even an axe can be dangerous," Ziyambi said. "It is the behaviour or the circumstances in a particular district that would require the commanding officer to invoke relevant laws to maintain law and order."
He further stressed that the problem is largely behavioural, urging communities to uphold the sanctity of life by refraining from unnecessary violence involving knives, axes, or machetes.
"We have good laws, but it is our behaviour that must change to ensure peace and order in the districts we command," he added.
The concerns come amid growing fear among Bulawayo residents, who have reported a surge in violent attacks by machete-wielding gangs terrorizing parts of the city. Community leaders and citizens have called on law enforcement agencies to urgently intervene to curb the escalating insecurity.
Numerous victims have been hospitalized with severe injuries, including wounds to the head, legs, and hands, following brutal assaults attributed to these gangs. The calls for tougher measures and increased policing reflect widespread alarm over the city's deteriorating security situation.
During a recent parliamentary session, Emakhandeni-Luveve MP Descent Bajila questioned Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi on what steps the government was taking to control the availability and use of machetes within communities.
Bajila sought clarity on the criteria used before the government issues any proclamations restricting machete possession. "What considerations come into play for that kind of proclamation to come from the minister?" he asked.
Bulawayo North MP Minenhle Gumede added to the concerns by inquiring if the government plans to strengthen legislation governing machete sales and use, and whether stricter controls would be introduced, particularly in areas where machete-related violence has surged.
Minister Ziyambi responded by emphasizing that the sale of machetes and knives is legal under current laws, but noted that prohibitions on carrying such items can be gazetted for specific areas as needed for security purposes.
He further stressed that the problem is largely behavioural, urging communities to uphold the sanctity of life by refraining from unnecessary violence involving knives, axes, or machetes.
"We have good laws, but it is our behaviour that must change to ensure peace and order in the districts we command," he added.
The concerns come amid growing fear among Bulawayo residents, who have reported a surge in violent attacks by machete-wielding gangs terrorizing parts of the city. Community leaders and citizens have called on law enforcement agencies to urgently intervene to curb the escalating insecurity.
Numerous victims have been hospitalized with severe injuries, including wounds to the head, legs, and hands, following brutal assaults attributed to these gangs. The calls for tougher measures and increased policing reflect widespread alarm over the city's deteriorating security situation.
Source - Southern Eye
