GOVT SWEATS OVER SADC PROTESTS

GOVT SWEATS OVER SADC PROTESTS

Government is sweating over possible protests during the Southern Africa Development Community (Sadc) summit to be held next month amid revelations that security agencies are on high alert to thwart any planned unrest, it has emerged.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who will assume the rotational chairmanship of the bloc, is using the summit to rubber stamp his victory in last year’s disputed elections, election observer missions said failed to meet the minimum standards for the holding of a free, fair and credible poll, according to critics.

The summit is scheduled for August 17 to 18.

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage minister Kazembe Kazembe yesterday sent a chilling warning to anyone who is plotting unrest during the summit.

“If there is someone who is planning lawlessness during the Sadc summit be warned that the security sector will deal with you accordingly. The President said we should be peaceful and welcome our visitors cheerfully,” Kazembe said.

Speaking during the burial of Brigadier General Michael Chaminuka, Mnangagwa urged people to be welcoming and peaceful during the summit.