Kazembe warns against July 31 protests

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has warned that the government will take firm action against any unlawful activities during the planned July 31 demonstrations, saying security agencies are prepared to maintain peace and public order.

His remarks come ahead of planned nationwide protests being mobilised by some citizen groups and opposition activists against Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3, which President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed into law on July 7.

Speaking on the government's preparedness, Kazembe said Zimbabwe is governed by the rule of law and that law enforcement agencies would not allow unlawful conduct.

"This is a country governed by laws. This is a country with law enforcement agencies. I can assure you that nothing of that sort will happen," he said.

He added: "This is not a banana republic. This is a country governed by laws."

Kazembe said the constitutional amendment had already gone through the required legislative processes and argued that citizens had been afforded the opportunity to express their views during that process.

"People expressed themselves, people were happy, and everything was done constitutionally. So it is quite surprising for anyone to think of doing anything foolish on July 31. But, of course, people are free to dream," he said.

The minister said the government was prepared to respond to any conduct considered to be in breach of the law.

"They can dream on. However, as a country, we are ready to deal with any acts of mischief. Law enforcement agencies are prepared and willing to respond to any such behavior," he said.

Kazembe also dismissed social media campaigns encouraging participation in the demonstrations, saying they would not affect the state's approach to maintaining order.

"People can continue dreaming on social media. They can do whatever they want on social media. But I can assure you that this is a peaceful country, and there will be peace and tranquillity on July 31," he said.

The planned demonstrations are being promoted by some opposition and civic groups protesting Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3, which has generated significant political debate and is currently the subject of several legal challenges before the Constitutional Court.

Opposition parties and civil society organisations have maintained that any demonstrations they support are intended to be peaceful and protected under the Constitution, while authorities have reiterated that they will enforce the law against any unlawful conduct.

The government has indicated that security agencies will remain on high alert ahead of July 31 to preserve public order.