CCC didn’t comply with Mopa provisions

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) sets the record straight on security arrangements and the holding of political rallies in view of the current campaigns for the by-elections set for March 26, 2022.

Firstly, it is the responsibility of a convener to notify the local regulating authority of the intention to hold a rally in line with provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (Mopa), [Chapter 11:23].

It is not just a case of notification, the convener has a responsibility to discuss and agree on the security and safety measures to be enforced at the rally for the benefit of the public and the community in general.

Sadly, the police has noted with concern that some political parties are adopting a confrontational approach when notifying the regulating authorities on their intended rallies.

In the case of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)'s Marondera rally, it is clear that the convener had not complied with Mopa provisions and was advised by the regulating authority. However, the convener and their lawyers insisted that the rally will go ahead while at the same time a court process was in motion at the High Court and subsequently at the local magistrate court after Justice (Lucie-Anne) Mungwari had ruled that the CCC convener had to exhaust the domestic legal remedies provided under Mopa before holding a rally. This is on record.

However, the convener had already mobilised CCC supporters to gather without sanctioning and before conclusion of the court proceedings. The police has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that all the country's laws are observed and complied with. In this case the rally could not be sanctioned without due processes being followed. It is sad that some political parties are resorting to acts which clearly show that they are not observing law and are acting as a law unto themselves.

The ZRP will not compromise on security and safety of the public and expect political party conveners to lead by example and avoid misleading the public.

Political parties are warned against disrespecting the police, acting as if there are no laws to be observed or they are untouchable institutions and entities.

The ZRP is ready to ensure that the forthcoming by-elections are held in a peaceful environment.

Therefore any form of lawlessness by individuals, groups or political parties will not be tolerated.

Nyathi Paul, Assistant Commissioner Senior Staff Officer (Press, Public and International Relations)