The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has warned the public not to wear military uniforms, as it is against the law for civilians to do so.
This follows the recent appearance of expelled ZANU PF Central Committee member, Blessed Runesu Geza, in a video circulating on social media, where he called for mass protests while wearing military attire.
In a statement released on Friday, March 21, the ZDF urged people to avoid buying or wearing military-style clothing saying anyone caught breaking the law will be prosecuted. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
UTTERANCES ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND ABUSE OF MILITARY UNIFORM BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces further note with concern, the continued misuse of military uniform by some members of the public.
The public is advised that according to the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02), the abuse of military uniform is an offence which prohibits and criminalises the wearing of military uniform by individuals who are not members of the Defence Forces.
Section 99 (2) (c) of the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02) further states tnat:
“Any person who without authority wears or uses any decoration supplied to or at thorised for use by any member of the Defence Forces or other military forces or any decoration so nearly resembling such decoration as to be likely to deceive shall be guilty of an offence.”
Members of the public are therefore urged to desist from acquiring or wearing any items of military uniform or apparel resembling such. Those caught on the wrong side of the law will be prosecuted.
Members of the public are also urged to report to the Zimbabwe Republic Police or the Zimbabwe Military Police any persons seen wearing military uniforms outside cantonment and other designated areas, or those committing crimes on the pretext that they are members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
In this regard, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces appeal to members of the public to report anyone known to be a civilian but wearing military uniform for whatever reason.
Any member of the public who might have complaints to make against criminals abusing Zimbabwe Defence Forces attire should contact our Call Centres on cellphone numbers 0712842318 and 0716801064 or landline numbers (0242) 252094 and (0242) 791129.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

The army in Zimbabwe is warning people not to wear military uniforms because it is against the law. They are worried that people might try to cause trouble while dressed as soldiers. If anyone is caught wearing a military uniform when they shouldn't be, they will be in trouble. The army also wants people to report anyone they see wearing a military uniform who is not a real soldier. They are asking for help to keep everyone safe and make sure only real soldiers are wearing army clothes.

ZDF Warns Civilians Against Wearing Military Uniforms

Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the K-8 jet trainer he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area near Gweru.
According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) on February 6, the crash happened about 5 kilometres east of Guinea Fowl, and the plane was badly damaged when it hit the ground.
Fortunately, no one on the ground was hurt, and there was no damage to property. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is saddened to announce the death of a young pilot, Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, who died after the Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft that he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area in Gweru.
The unfortunate accident happened when the pilot was on a solo consolidation general handling navigation training.
The Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General PV Sibanda, said that the news of the death of Air Lieutenant Tambudza had been received with heavy hearts and all Officers and Members were in mourning over the sad loss of a talented pilot.
On behalf of Officers, men and women of the ZDF, the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to express his heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of our departed Officer, Air Lieutenant Tambudza.
Air Lieutenant Tambudza was a young pilot who had demonstrated immense potential and was therefore selected to undergo a jet flying conversion training course at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru. At the time of his death, he was in the final phases of training on the K-8 jet.
The accident occurred about 5 kilometers East of Guinea Fowl and on impact with the ground the aircraft was extensively damaged.
There were no civilian casualties and damage to property on the ground.
In the meantime, the Air Force of Zimbabwe has constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.
Arrangements for the funeral parade and burial for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced in due course.
</blockquote>

Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the plane he was flying crashed near Gweru. The crash happened while he was on solo training. The Airforce is sad about his death. He was a talented pilot being trained on a K-8 jet. The plane crashed without hurting anyone on the ground. The Air Force is investigating why the crash happened. The funeral arrangements for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced later. The Air Force is mourning the loss of the young pilot.

Airforce Of Zimbabwe Pilot Killed In Plane Crash Near Gweru

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has categorically denied issuing any statement expressing discontent with the distribution of food aid, the ZiG currency, money changers, or ongoing investigations into corruption matters.
In a statement, the ZDF said the issues raised in the social media article were outside its jurisdiction as provided for by the Constitution. Said the ZDF:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned and disturbed by a sensationally wild, false and malicious social media article dated 16 May 2024 purporting to have been released by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters.
The social media article gives the impression that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned about the distribution of food aid, ZIG currency, money changers and investigation into matters of corruption.
These allegations are all falsehoods and an attempt to mislead the people of Zimbabwe on the extent of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ jurisdiction in national matters.
The responsibility and jurisdiction of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are clearly provided for in the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) 2013 section 212 which states that; “the function of the Defence Forces is to protect Zimbabwe, its people, its national interests and its territorial integrity and to uphold the Constitution”.
In the context of its mandate, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces have no business giving press statements on matters that fall outside their jurisdiction.
It is, therefore, unbelievable that such false claims purported to be coming from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters are circulating on social media using a modified letterhead to mislead the people of Zimbabwe.
To this end, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces advises the public to dismiss the false message circulating on social media with the contempt it deserves.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Defence Forces Dismisses ZiG, Money Changers Claims

Four members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) comprising a Brigadier General, two Majors, and a Sergeant, died in a head-on collision along the Harare-Bulawayo road on Tuesday.
The accident was confirmed by the ZDF Director of Poly, Public Relations and International Affairs, Brigadier General Augustine Chipwere.
In a statement seen by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/4-zdf-members-killed-in-road-traffic-accident/">The Herald</a>, Brigadier General Chipwere said the accident occurred about 2km from Battlefields in Mashonaland West Province. He said:
<blockquote>
It is with a heavy heart that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces announces the death of a general officer, two field officers and a non-commissioned member in a fatal road accident which occurred on April 16, 2024.
Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha, Major Thabani Ncube, Major Mqondisi Gumbo and Sergeant Chakabaiwa were involved in a road traffic accident at the 180km peg along the Harare-Bulawayo Road about 2km from Battlefields.
According to preliminary investigations, it was established that Brigadier General Vezha attempted to overtake an unidentified vehicle and encroached into the oncoming vehicle lane resulting in a head-on collision with the Mazda CX-5 which was travelling towards Kwekwe.
Some passengers who were aboard both vehicles sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently admitted at Gweru and Kwekwe General Hospitals.
Investigations surrounding the accident are underway and more information will be availed in due course.
</blockquote>
In May 2014, then a Lieutenant Colonel, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Shadreck_Vezha/">Shadreck Vezha</a> received a UN Medal for participating in the United Nations Syria Mission. The other three officers conferred with the UN medals were Lieutenant Colonels <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Chadokweedza_Gota&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Chadokweedza Gota (page does not exist)">Chadokweedza Gota</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Hamilton_Ndhlovu&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Hamilton Ndhlovu (page does not exist)">Hamilton Ndhlovu</a> and <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Douglas_Gwite&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Douglas Gwite (page does not exist)">Douglas Gwite</a>.
In July 2014, he was among nine lieutenant colonels who were promoted to the substantive rank of colonel by then-President Robert Mugabe. The others promoted were <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=George_Chitsva&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="George Chitsva (page does not exist)">George Chitsva</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Washington_Chidawanyika&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Washington Chidawanyika (page does not exist)">Washington Chidawanyika</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Joshua_Chikanga" title="Joshua Chikanga">Joshua Chikanga</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Beaven_Masinga&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Beaven Masinga (page does not exist)">Beaven Masinga</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Ernest_Shamu&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Ernest Shamu (page does not exist)">Ernest Shamu</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Simo_Maseko" title="Simo Maseko">Simo Maseko</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Tendai_Makavi&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Tendai Makavi (page does not exist)">Tendai Makavi</a>, and <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Charles_Mashava&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Charles Mashava (page does not exist)">Charles Mashava</a>.
On 16 February 2019, Vhezha was among seven ZNA members who were promoted from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier-General.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Brigadier General Vezha Killed In Head-on Collission

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reportedly fired several high-ranking members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) for allegedly failing to control their subordinates who walked out on him during the handover of military equipment by the Chinese government last week.
According to NewsDay, several low-ranking army officers who were seated in the open abandoned the event and sought shelter on buses following heavy rainfall while Mnangagwa was speaking.
The President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, was speaking during the handover ceremony at Inkomo Mechanised Brigade, a few kilometres outside Harare.
NewsDay reported sources as saying regimental sergeant majors from the Parachute Regiment, Special Air Services and Mechanised Brigade were fired.
The officer commanding Inkomo Barracks Mechanised Brigade was reportedly demoted, while several Majors were transferred and pending court-martial for failing to control their troops. Said a source:
<blockquote>
During President Mnangagwa’s speech, a heavy downpour caused troops seated in the open to scramble for cover on a bus.
This was interpreted as disrespect towards the Commander-in-Chief and frankly, quite embarrassing.
Last week, a flash message notified regimental sergeant majors of their dismissal due to their inability to command their troops.
Confusion has arisen as some dismissed individuals have reported for duty.
The abruptness and severity of these dismissals have unsettled many within the ZDF.
The lack of clarity surrounding the specific charges has fuelled frustration and confusion.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment by NewsDay yesterday, ZDF spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore said he would respond via email. He was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
I will email you our response. I saw your message and we are processing it.
</blockquote>
However, Makotore had not responded to the questions by the time the story was published.
The dismissals have reportedly caused discontent and low morale within the military.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Dismisses Top Soldiers | Report

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is underfunded and this has negatively affected the ability of the army to carry out its mandate.
This was said by the Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri while making a presentation at the 2023 Parliament pre-budget seminar in Harare on Monday, 24 October.
Muchinguri-Kashiri revealed that the army is not able to keep all personnel in the barracks or provide them with basics such as food and uniforms. She said:
<blockquote>
Let’s invest in our defence forces. My ministry is facing a lot of challenges, and we have inadequate accommodation to keep our forces in the barracks.
If we are adequately provided for, I can assure the nation that we will keep ourselves in the barracks.
What we see in the current situation is that our forces are renting accommodation in the townships, and they are often given names because of inadequate and indecent accommodation — let alone transport, which they also hire.
They are insulted on a daily basis. They sometimes go without food and even uniforms, and these are constitutional requirements.
Their food items have been reduced. Sometimes they have only sadza and beans. This is a serious situation we are faced with.
My fear is that these are young people who sacrifice to create this conducive environment for us to enjoy peace. We appeal for funding from you.
</blockquote>
However, since independence in 1980, the government has prioritised the Defence ministry in budget allocations.
The army is not only one of the top three ministries which always receives the biggest allocation from the Treasury over the years but also runs its own private companies that generate revenue. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002532/hunger-stalks-army-barracks">NewsDay</a>

Zimbabwe Defence Forces Underfunded, Says Muchinguri-Kashiri

A report claims that morale within the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is at its lowest since independence in 1980 over the rising cost of living, poor salaries and working conditions, among several other grievances.
According to The Independent, military sources revealed that military bosses were anxious amid fears that if the grievances raised by the restive soldiers were not urgently addressed, the situation could have grave consequences. The report claims that a Zimbabwe National Army source had this to say:
<blockquote>Signals that gauge the morale of the army sent by the Directorate of Signals to each army unit have been very worrying over the past three months.
Basically, sitreps serve the purpose of gauging and determining the morale levels within the army. Over the past three months, morale has been recorded at its lowest ever. In fact, morale is at the lowest now, since Independence (in 1980).
But almost two years after the coup, the real beneficiaries of the coup have not yet fulfilled any of those promises hence the growing dissatisfaction within the military.
The conditions of service have dropped. You cannot expect soldiers to be happy when they are given a diet of sadza and beans every day. It is a terrible situation. In some cases, soldiers have to take tea without sugar.</blockquote>
The country’s civil servants have threatened to go on strike over poor working conditions while the government said that it is not in a position to pay salaries in US dollars.
<h3>More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2019/01/25/army-morale-lowest-as-economy-implodes/">The Independent</a></h3>

Army Morale At Its Lowest Since Independence In 1980 - Report Alleges

In a statement Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi dismissed reports that there is a rebellion by soldiers saying there is no insurgency in Zimbabwe.
He said the Zimbabwe Defence Forces is a disciplined professional force. Said Mugwisi:
<blockquote>There is no insurgency in the country at the moment. However, it has become apparent that there are criminal elements who tried to take advantage of the violent protests that were planned and perpetrated by opposition political movements and their associates in the country from 14 to 16 January 2019. These criminal elements do not in any way constitute a rebel group. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces is a disciplined professional force and there is no discord in the organisation which negative forces may wish to portray.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zdf-remains-a-professional-force/">Herald</a>

There Are No Rogue Soldiers: Zimbabwe Defence Forces Dismisses Insurgency Reports

President and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Emmerson Mnangagwa has promoted two brigadier generals to the rank of major generals. The promotions are with effect from 8 December 2018.
The two promoted are Major General Thomas Moyo and Major General Anselem Sanyatwe. The promotions were done in terms of section 15(1)(b) Paragraph 2 of the Defence Act. Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Phillip Valerio Sibanda conferred ranks to the newly promoted senior officers. In his acceptance speech, Major General Moyo commended his superiors for showing confidence in their work. The conferment of the ranks was witnessed by the Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Edzayi Chimonyo and several senior officers.
President Mnangagwa also promoted some senior members of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ). A female senior officer Paridzirai Mazhindu was promoted from the rank of 1 Wing Commander to the substantive rank of Group Captain. 16 squadron leaders were promoted to the substantive rank of wing commanders.
More: <a href="http://www.zbc.co.zw/two-senior-army-generals-promoted/">ZBC</a>

Mnangagwa Promotes 2 Brigadier Generals

Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Phillip Valerio Sibanda said soldiers that were deployed on August 1 used appropriate force and weapons to disperse demonstrators.
Appearing before the commission of inquiry into the August 1 violence, General Sibanda said although the soldiers were carrying AK47s the weaponry was appropriate in the sense that a solider cannot be deployed without his equipment. Said General Sibanda:
<blockquote>When we do an estimate of a situation, you look at how best you can deal with the situation in the shortest possible time and in this particular case with minimum force, damage and loss of life. We looked at that and we believed that the force that was eventually deployed by the commander of the National Reaction Force was appropriate and the weaponry was appropriate in the sense that you cannot deploy a solider without his equipment. It might not have been appropriate in the sense that they were carrying an AK47 as opposed to maybe a weapon that can take rubber bullets. But otherwise, the force that was used and so on was appropriate in my view because as you notice it was only one and half hours and the city was also back to normal except that there were no people because of what had happened.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/soldiers-did-not-kill-civilians-zdf-zrp-top-brass-explain-august-1-incidents/">Chronicle</a>

Soldiers Used Appropriate Weapons And Force To Disperse Rioters On August 1- General Sibanda

Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) President Emmerson Mnangagwa promoted six Brigadier Generals to the position of Major General upon retirement.
The six are Brigadier Generals Godfrey Chanakira, Thando Madzvamuse, Evaristo Dzihwema, Chanceller Diye, Gerald Gwinji and Mike Nicholas Sango. The promotions were with effect from December 20, 2017 and were done in terms of the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02) as also read with the ZDF policy on retirement of ex-combatants and founder members and also read with the ZDF retention inducement and retirement policy for active ex-combatants .
Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda conferred the ranks to the six at Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks yesterday.
More: <a href="http://www.chronicle.co.zw/6-generals-promoted/">Chronicle</a>

Mnangagwa Promotes 6 Generals

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) together with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) warned individuals who seek their services to settle personal scores, taking advantage of the ongoing Operation Restore Legacy.
Part of the statement reads:
<blockquote>Members of the public are warned against seeking the services of the ZDF to settle old personal scores taking advantage of the ongoing Operation Restore Legacy. Such cases are clearly a violation of the law,” the statement says. Operation Restore Legacy was launched by the ZDF last month to weed out corrupt elements that were causing social and political instability in the country. The defence and security services said vengeful retribution was against the spirit of unity in the new political dispensation. While we are mindful of citizens’ constitutional rights to express their views through various forms, there are certain individuals and groups who are continuing to organise unsanctioned retribution-related demonstrations.</blockquote>
More: <a href="http://www.herald.co.zw/we-dont-fight-personal-wars-zdf/">ZBC</a>

ZDF, ZRP warns individuals who want to use them to settle personal scores

In a statement, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) advised motorists that some roads leading to Borrowdale Road will be closed on Wednesday to allow a smooth procession of the military parade that will be commissioning Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks, formerly known as KGVI Barracks.
The statement reads:
<blockquote>The Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to inform members of the public that Borrowdale Road will be closed between intersections Borrowdale Road and Pauling Road turn-off and Borrowdale Road and Churchill Avenue. Access to Borrowdale Road through Sandringham Drive/ Falmouth will also be closed to allow safe conduct of an official military parade at KGVI North Gate.</blockquote>
ZDF said a 21 Gun Salute would be fired during the ceremony. The parade will take place tomorrow from 6am to 11am. 
More: <a href="http://www.herald.co.zw/roads-closure-for-zdf-parade/">Herald</a>

Roads to be closed for ZDF parade

<blockquote>27 November 2017
JOINT STATEMENT BY THE ZIMBABWE DEFENCE FORCES AND SECURITY SERVICES OF ZIMBABWE.
We the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the Security Services of Zimbabwe wish to inform the nation that the situation in our country has returned to normalcy, following the historic inauguration of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Head of State and Government and Commander- In -Chief of the Defence Forces, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa on 24 November 2017, which has set a new trajectory.
We wish, therefore, to advise the nation that the Zimbabwe Republic Police is now assuming its role as stipulated in the Constitution of Zimbabwe under Section 219, which among other things mandate the Zimbabwe Republic Police to maintain Law and Order protect and secure the lives and property of the people. You will soon notice the ZDF and ZRP members conducting joint patrols, especially in the Harare Central Business District. We urge you all progressive Zimbabweans to respect the country’s laws and cooperate with our officers as they perform their duties. As Zimbabwe Defence Forces and Security Services, we play complementary roles in the defence and maintenance of law and order in our beloved country.
We, therefore, remain committed to serve our country. Zimbabwe is a peace-loving nation as demonstrated during the past week. We accordingly urge all citizens to remain committed to peace. We remain guided by His Excellency, President E.D Mnangagwa’s inaugural speech, particularly where he spoke about unity and self-discipline by all. Let us all remain united and respectful of our national laws and by-laws as we uphold the rule of law.
Law enforcement agents are already receiving reports of looting and illegal occupation of other people’s properties particularly farms and houses. This behaviour is criminal and against the spirit of non-vengeful retribution and will be met by the full wrath of law.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police would want to assure the nation that it will strive to ensure that all its operations and programmes will be people-centred in accordance with the vision of His Excellency, the President, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
We would want to urge our nation to remain united and cooperate with security services as they discharge their duties.
Signed
SAC Charamba C.
Chief Staff Officer (Press and Public Relations) To the Commissioner General of Police Zimbabwe Republic Police
Signed
Overson Mugwisi
Colonel
Director Public Relations, Zimbabwe Defence Forces</blockquote>
<h3>The emphasis in the statement is NOT ours.</h3>

ZRP Officers To Conduct Patrols Together With ZDF Soldiers: Full Statement

<blockquote>27 November 2017
JOINT STATEMENT BY THE ZIMBABWE DEFENCE FORCES AND SECURITY SERVICES OF ZIMBABWE.
We the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the Security Services of Zimbabwe wish to inform the nation that the situation in our country has returned to normalcy, following the historic inauguration of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Head of State and Government and Commander- In -Chief of the Defence Forces, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa on 24 November 2017, which has set a new trajectory.
We wish, therefore, to advise the nation that the Zimbabwe Republic Police is now assuming its role as stipulated in the Constitution of Zimbabwe under Section 219, which among other things mandate the Zimbabwe Republic Police to maintain Law and Order protect and secure the lives and property of the people. You will soon notice the ZDF and ZRP members conducting joint patrols, especially in the Harare Central Business District. We urge you all progressive Zimbabweans to respect the country’s laws and cooperate with our officers as they perform their duties. As Zimbabwe Defence Forces and Security Services, we play complementary roles in the defence and maintenance of law and order in our beloved country.
We, therefore, remain committed to serve our country. Zimbabwe is a peace-loving nation as demonstrated during the past week. We accordingly urge all citizens to remain committed to peace. We remain guided by His Excellency, President E.D Mnangagwa’s inaugural speech, particularly where he spoke about unity and self-discipline by all. Let us all remain united and respectful of our national laws and by-laws as we uphold the rule of law.
Law enforcement agents are already receiving reports of looting and illegal occupation of other people’s properties particularly farms and houses. This behaviour is criminal and against the spirit of non-vengeful retribution and will be met by the full wrath of law.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police would want to assure the nation that it will strive to ensure that all its operations and programmes will be people-centred in accordance with the vision of His Excellency, the President, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
We would want to urge our nation to remain united and cooperate with security services as they discharge their duties.
Signed 
SAC Charamba C. 
Chief Staff Officer (Press and Public Relations) To the Commissioner General of Police Zimbabwe Republic Police
Signed 
Overson Mugwisi 
Colonel 
Director Public Relations, Zimbabwe Defence Forces</blockquote>
<h3>The emphasis in the statement is NOT ours.</h3>

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has issued a press statement reminding the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) to uphold the Constitution when dealing with criminals they said were surrounding former President Robert Mugabe. ZLHR reminds ZDF of a prisoner’s rights as provided for in sections 50 and 53 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
This follows reports that ZDF arrested Ignatius Chombo, Jonathan Moyo, Saviour Kasukuwere and Kudzanai Chipanga. Read ZLHR’s full Press Statement below:
<blockquote>ZIMBABWE LAWYERS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS 
Press Statement 22 November 2017 
ZLHR STATEMENT ON ARRESTS AND DETENTION
ZIMBABWE Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has noted with apprehension and concern some disconcerting media reports that during Operation Restore Legacy there may be some arrests and detention of people following the announcement made by Major General Sibusiso Moyo on 15 November 2017. 
In the event that any such arrests have indeed been made, ZLHR hereby reminds the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) of their obligation to ensure full compliance with the constitutional guarantees protecting human rights and the rule of law. 
We draw their attention, in particular to section 50 of the Constitution which explicitly provides for the pre-trial rights of any persons who have been arrested on allegations of committing an offence. Section 53 of the Constitution also guarantees freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. 
Further, Zimbabwe is a state party to several human rights instruments including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, in particular Article 6 which provides for the right to personal liberty and protection from arbitrary arrest and which states that every individual shall have the right to liberty and to the security of his person. 
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Fair Trial and Legal Assistance in Africa elaborate on the rights of those arrested and detained. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights provides in Article 9 that no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile as well as Article 9 and 10 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which guarantees the right to liberty. 
In the circumstances, ZLHR therefore urges the ZDF;
 • To follow the due process of the law; 
• To guarantee protection of all pre-trial rights and safety of any detainees and to grant them immediate and unequivocal access to their lawyers and family members and medical practitioners of choice ( where necessary );
 • To prevent any incidents of torture, or other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; 
• To prevent the occurrence of any enforced disappearances or incommunicado detention.</blockquote>

"Uphold Constitution when dealing with G40 Criminals": ZLHR reminds ZDF

<blockquote>PRESS RELEASE: Thursday 23 November 2017
In this latest update on the progress of Operation Restore Legacy, Zimbabwe Defence Forces and other Security Services wish to further commend the people of Zimbabwe for continuing to behave well as they celebrate positive political developments in the country.
The solidarity gatherings of unprecedented magnitude have all been conducted peacefully. Thus, no violation of constitutional processes and indeed our Zimbabwean tradition of self-respect and self-restraint have been observed. This therefore is a clear sign of resilience and self-control. It is therefore our wish that the obtaining peaceful environment continues for the good of all our people and the country. You should however, be worry (sic) of criminals who masquerade as members of the Defence Forces in their bid to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public. Such incidents should be reported to the ZRP (Hotline Number 04 703 631 and ZDF Hotline Numbers 0712 236 595 or 0712 961 945) or any other nearest law enforcing agents.
We are all to remain guided by the tenet of Ubuntu/Unhu, which has become a clarion call for all peace-loving people in the African region and beyond.
As we prepare for the inauguration of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces at a venue to be advised on Friday 24 November 2017, we look forward to another massive gathering. Once again, we strongly appeal to you to observe the laws of the land and shun violence to preserve peace and stability in the country.
We thank you.</blockquote>

Latest Statement From The Zimbabwe Defence Forces

Press Statement 
22 November 2017
ZLHR STATEMENT ON ARRESTS AND DETENTION
<div class="text_exposed_show">
ZIMBABWE Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has noted with apprehension and concern some disconcerting media reports that during Operation Restore Legacy there may be some arrests and detention of people following the announcement made by Major General Sibusiso Moyo on 15 November 2017.
In the event that any such arrests have indeed been made, ZLHR hereby reminds the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) of their obligation to ensure full compliance with the constitutional guarantees protecting human rights and the rule of law.
We draw their attention, in particular to section 50 of the Constitution which explicitly provides for the pre-trial rights of any persons who have been arrested on allegations of committing an offence. Section 53 of the Constitution also guarantees freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Further, Zimbabwe is a state party to several human rights instruments including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, in particular, Article 6 which provides for the right to personal liberty and protection from arbitrary arrest and which states that every individual shall have the right to liberty and to the security of his person. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Fair Trial and Legal Assistance in Africa elaborate on the rights of those arrested and detained. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights provides in Article 9 that no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile as well as Article 9 and 10 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which guarantees the right to liberty.
In the circumstances, ZLHR, therefore, urges the ZDF; 
• To follow the due process of the law; 
• To guarantee protection of all pre-trial rights and safety of any detainees and to grant them immediate and unequivocal access to their lawyers and family members and medical practitioners of choice ( where necessary ); 
• To prevent any incidents of torture, or other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; 
• To prevent the occurrence of any enforced disappearances or incommunicado detention.
ENDS 
Zimbabwe Lawyers For Human Rights
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Zim Lawyers For Human Rights Statement On Arrests And Detention by the Military

In an address the Zimbabwe Defence Forces advised Zimbabweans to avoid unnecessary movement. They however urge those with “essential business to continue their normal activities as usual”.
In the statement ZDF says:
<blockquote>To the generality of the people of Zimbabwe: We urge you to remain calm and limit unnecessary movement. However, we encourage those who are employed and those with essential business in the city to continue their normal activities as usual. Our wish is that you enjoy your rights and freedoms and that we return our country to a dispensation that allows for investment, development and prosperity that we all fought for and for which many of our citizens paid the supreme sacrifice.</blockquote>
They also warn the media to report fairly and responsibly. The army also warns political parties to refrain from violence. They also deny that they have taken over Government as the military saying:
<blockquote>To both our people and the world beyond our borders: We wish to make it abundantly clear that this is not a military takeover of Government. What the Zimbabwe Defence Forces is doing is to pacify a degenerating political, social and economic situation in our country which if not addressed may result in violent conflict.</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/11/15/general-chiwengas-full-press-statement/">Read Full Press Statement Here</a></h2>
More: <a href="http://www.zbc.co.zw/2017/11/15/statement-from-the-zimbabwe-defence-forces/">ZBC</a>

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