By Flata Kavinga
Minister of Energy and Power Development July Moyo has warned against planned street protests, saying the Government will not allow demonstrations that it believes could threaten peace and public order.
Speaking at the Midlands provincial thank-you rally celebrating the enactment of Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 at Mbizo Stadium on Sunday, Moyo urged citizens to express their views peacefully and avoid taking to the streets.
“We want peace in our country. People must stay in their homes,” Moyo said.
He warned that authorities were prepared to respond to any acts of violence associated with planned demonstrations.
“The Government warns those who go onto the streets promoting violence that it is ready to deal with the situation,” he said.
Moyo said those opposed to Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 should respect the will of the majority rather than resorting to street protests.
“When we came to you, you refused to support Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3. Now you want to go on the streets,” he said.
He argued that allowing rival political groups to mobilise competing street demonstrations could undermine peace and stability.
“What is going to happen if our members also go onto the streets when the majority is supporting Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3?” he said.
Moyo said the Government would not permit street protests and urged citizens to avoid participating in any planned demonstrations.
“We hear of planned street protests. Government will not allow people to protest on the streets. Leave the streets alone,” he said.
The rally was held to celebrate the enactment of Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 and was attended by Government officials, ruling party supporters and other invited guests.
