NERA deserves to be sued over demos

EDITOR — What the High Court has ruled on concerning NERA and the ability for it to be sued is a good and necessary move.

NERA was required to put in place adequate measures to ensure there was no violence during their protests. Even after the violence had started, NERA had a duty to discourage its members from participating in violence.

NERA protesters were seen throwing stones, looting and vandalising, but the conveners did not take any action to restore order.

Giving business entities and individuals who lost property in the violent demonstrations that rocked Harare’s central business district on August 26, the right to sue NERA will somehow assist victims recover.

NERA violated the law by conducting violent demonstrations; it had the right to conduct a peaceful demonstration and to ensure peace during the procession. I believe it is only fair and justifiable that NERA be held liable for the loss of property suffered by ordinary citizens.

If NERA fails to comply it will have to lose personal assets or rather their leaders face jail terms. As citizens, we need deterrence against irresponsible behaviour in society. People cannot cause mayhem in the country and get away with it. Zimbabwe is a peaceful country and we have to ensure that there is peace all the time. Tatenda Muketiwa, Harare.