Varakashi4ED says Sikhala arrest confirms 'regional destabilisation agenda'

The pro-government social media movement Varakashi4ED has issued a strongly worded statement claiming that the reported arrest of opposition politician Job Sikhala in South Africa validates its earlier assertions linking him to the recent arson attack on SAPES Trust offices in Harare.

In a statement signed by Varakashi4ED chairperson Godwin Nkatha, the group alleged that the SAPES fire incident was part of a coordinated plan by Sikhala, political analyst Ibbo Mandaza, and their associates to "falsely implicate the Government of Zimbabwe" in acts of political violence.

"Following the recent arson attack on SAPES Trust offices, Varakashi4ED leadership led by its Chairman Godwin Nkatha firmly stated that the incident was orchestrated by the conveners of the meeting - namely Job Sikhala, Ibbo Mandaza, and their associates - as a calculated attempt to falsely implicate the Government of Zimbabwe," the statement reads.

The group said this week's developments - in which Sikhala was reportedly arrested in Pretoria for allegedly possessing explosives - vindicated their earlier stance.

"This week, our position has been vindicated. Job Sikhala has reportedly been arrested in South Africa in possession of explosives, some of which are believed to have been used in the SAPES bombing," the statement continues.

Varakashi4ED further claimed that the matter points to a "broader agenda of exporting terror tactics across SADC borders," allegedly funded by foreign entities such as philanthropist George Soros and what it described as his "network of sponsors."

The organisation called on South African authorities to ensure the case is handled with seriousness, urging "long-term incarceration" for those found guilty.

"We call upon the courts in Pretoria to treat this matter with the gravity it deserves. The masterminds of regional destabilisation must face long-term incarceration," said Nkatha.

The statement also warned that individuals offering legal assistance to Sikhala should be "scrutinised," alleging that some may have ties to "terror cells" operating under the guise of human rights advocacy.

Concluding the statement, Varakashi4ED reaffirmed its commitment to "defending national sovereignty, regional peace, and the truth."

South African police have not yet issued an official statement confirming Sikhala's arrest or the alleged possession of explosives.

If confirmed, this development would mark a major twist in Sikhala's long-running political and legal battles, which have previously seen him face multiple charges in Zimbabwe, including incitement to public violence.

Sikhala's supporters, however, have in the past described such allegations as politically motivated attempts to silence dissent.