By A Correspondent
As the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit approaches this weekend, Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, is witnessing a surge in intimidation tactics by its hardline faction, the Varakashi.
The Varakashi, a notorious group within the party, is reportedly ramping up efforts to intimidate and suppress dissenting voices.
In a recent development, the Varakashi took to social media to escalate their rhetoric.
A Facebook post from the group boldly claimed, “Yes, protesters are not criminals but they are terrorists.”
This alarming statement reflects the group’s aggressive stance towards those expressing opposition or dissent, framing them as threats to national security rather than legitimate voices of protest.
The timing of these actions is particularly significant given the imminent SADC Summit.
The summit represents a critical opportunity for regional leaders to discuss various issues, including political stability and human rights concerns within member states.
Zanu PF’s attempt to stifle dissent ahead of this event raises concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic principles and human rights.
The Varakashi’s actions are seen as part of a broader strategy by Zanu PF to consolidate power and control public perception in the run-up to the summit. By labeling protesters as terrorists, the party seeks to delegitimize and discredit their opposition, potentially deterring public dissent and securing a more favorable narrative for the summit.
Critics argue that such tactics not only undermine democratic freedoms but also contribute to a climate of fear and repression.
The international community, including the SADC, will likely be closely monitoring these developments to assess their impact on regional stability and governance.
As Zimbabwe braces for the SADC Summit, the Varakashi’s aggressive posture highlights the ongoing tensions within the country and the challenges faced by those advocating for democratic reforms and human rights.
Below are responses to Varakashi’s remarks:
Tatenda Moyo, Harare Resident: “It’s disheartening to see the Varakashi escalating their intimidation tactics. Everyone has the right to voice their opinions peacefully, and these actions only serve to stifle democratic debate.”
Chipo Ndlovu, Student Activist:“The claim that protesters are terrorists is deeply troubling.
This kind of rhetoric is dangerous and undermines the very principles of democracy and free speech.”