Wrong Message, Deleted!

Staff Reporter

People often regret having sent a message. You must have felt that way yourself. There are no conventions around appropriate use of texting as far as courtesies are concerned. But it might be generous to not show you noticed a deletion. It would also be more generous to give them some space before texting them, so they don’t have to wonder why you text so soon on the heels of their deletion.

“Sometimes you just have to give people some latitude,” writes Corrie Wice.

As the 44th SADC Summit approaches, the Zimbabwean government has taken a controversial step by deploying military artillery and police riots around the country. The move has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns among citizens, civil society organizations, and regional leaders.

The government claims that the deployment is a precautionary measure to ensure security and maintain order during the summit. However, many believe that it is a thinly veiled attempt to silence dissenting voices and suppress protests.

“This is a clear attempt to intimidate and cow citizens into submission,” said a local human rights activist, who wished to remain anonymous. “The government is trying to create a climate of fear and uncertainty ahead of the summit.”

The deployment has also raised questions about the government’s intentions and its commitment to democratic values. “This is not the kind of behavior we expect from a government that claims to be democratic,” said Amnesty International “It’s a worrying sign, and we will be watching the situation closely.”

Despite the show of force, citizens seem unfazed. “We’re used to this kind of thing,” said a Rusape local resident. “The government always tries to flex its muscles when it feels threatened. But we’re not afraid.”

The show of power and control they wanted to make and the impact of the government’s actions on the summit’s outcome remains uncertain, casting a shadow of uncertainty and tension over the event. Regional leaders may opt to condemn Zimbabwe’s actions, or they may decide to turn a blind eye to the issue. Regardless of their decision, the situation has created a sense of unease, leaving the outcome of the summit hanging in the balance.

As the SADC summit approaches, Zimbabwe’s government has intensified its crackdown on potential dissent. The move has sparked widespread condemnation from political analysts, who argue that it undermines the country’s constitutional rights and sends a worrying message to the international community.

Despite the SADC bloc’s silence on the issue, Zimbabweans have taken to social media to express their outrage and frustration. Many have accused the government of trying to suppress their rights and freedoms, and have called for regional leaders to take a stand against the crackdown.

The government’s actions have also raised concerns about the country’s commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law. With the SADC summit just around the corner, many are wondering if Zimbabwe’s leaders will face any consequences for their actions.

In the meantime, security forces continue to monitor the situation closely, removing potential protest materials and keeping a close eye on areas where demonstrations often take place. The tension is palpable, and many Zimbabweans are holding their breath as they wait to see what will happen next.

Some have expressed skepticism about the government’s motives, suggesting that the crackdown is merely a smokescreen to distract from the country’s deeper economic and political problems. Others have praised the government’s efforts to maintain order and stability, but have urged them to do so in a way that respects citizens’ rights and freedoms.

As the SADC summit draws near, all eyes will be on Zimbabwe’s leaders to see how they respond to the situation. Will they continue down the path of repression, or will they take a step back and engage with their citizens? The world is watching, and the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the country and the region.

Legal experts however claimed, “it is unconstitutional to deploy the military to the highways and byways of the country in the absence of a war. This move is a clear violation of citizens’ rights and freedoms, and it raises serious concerns about the government’s intentions and commitment to upholding the rule of law.

The constitution guarantees the right to freedom of movement, assembly, and expression, and it is the duty of the government to protect these rights, not suppress them. The deployment of the military to quell dissent or intimidate citizens is a hallmark of authoritarian regimes, and it has no place in a democratic society.

Furthermore, the use of the military to enforce domestic policy is a dangerous precedent that can lead to further erosion of civil liberties and human rights. It is essential for the government to engage with citizens, listen to their grievances, and address their concerns through peaceful and democratic means, rather than resorting to force and coercion.”

Citizens have lost interest and are no longer following the proceedings of the summit. The government’s actions have led to widespread apathy and disengagement, with many Zimbabweans feeling disconnected from the process.

The summit, which was initially seen as an opportunity for regional leaders to address the country’s crisis, has failed to inspire confidence or hope among citizens. Instead, it has become a symbol of the government’s insincerity and lack of commitment to genuine dialogue and reform.

As the summit continues, it is clear that citizens are no longer invested in the outcome. They have lost faith in the ability of their leaders to effect meaningful change and are now focused on survival and finding ways to navigate the country’s deepening economic and political crisis