Gunman vandalises Jacob Ngarivhume house

Pressure group Sungano YeVanhu - Ubumbano Lomphakathi (The People's Coalition) has condemned alleged intimidation and threats against its spokesperson, Jacob Ngarivhume, after his residence was reportedly vandalised with threatening and abusive messages.

In a statement, the coalition said the messages were allegedly written by an unidentified gunman travelling in a grey Toyota GD6.

Sungano YeVanhu described the incident as an attack not only on Ngarivhume but also on the constitutional rights of Zimbabweans to express their views freely, associate peacefully and participate in public affairs without fear or intimidation.

The coalition said the incident was part of what it described as a broader pattern of threats and harassment targeting its leaders and members.

It said its convener, Rev Kupa Mtata, had previously received threatening messages and experienced acts of intimidation.

Other leaders, including Professor Lovemore Madhuku and Tendai Biti, have also allegedly faced threats and intimidation while exercising their constitutional rights, the coalition said.

Sungano YeVanhu said it remained committed to constitutional democracy, the rule of law and the sovereignty of the people.

The organisation said its campaign for the restoration of constitutional order would be pursued through peaceful and lawful means, including court action, civic engagement and national dialogue.

It also reiterated its rejection of violence.

"No Zimbabwean should be threatened, intimidated or placed in fear because they hold or express constitutional views that differ from those of the Government or any political actor," the coalition said.

It called on the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and other law enforcement agencies to conduct a prompt, professional and impartial investigation into the alleged incident.

The coalition urged authorities to identify those responsible and ensure that they are held accountable in accordance with the law.

It further said all citizens were entitled to equal protection under the Constitution, regardless of their political views or affiliations.

Sungano YeVanhu also called on political leaders, churches, civil society organisations, regional bodies and the international community to speak out against political intimidation and support the protection of constitutional rights and democratic freedoms in Zimbabwe.

The coalition maintained that the alleged threats would not deter its activities.

"Threats will not silence us. Intimidation will not weaken our resolve. Our commitment to restoring constitutional democracy remains peaceful, lawful and unwavering," it said.