Perpetua Murungweni
President Emmerson Mnangagwa preached peace ahead of this year’s harmonized elections, urging young people not to be used by politicians to perpetrate violence as he addressed a rally at Mucheke Stadium Masvingo on Friday (June 9).
Mnangagwa, who was the guest speaker at the rally organized by YoungWomen 4ED affiliate group, said he had come to the province to address first time voters.
“As we approach to 2023 harmonized elections I call upon youth and all voters to guard the peace, unity, love and harmony prevailing in our country. ‘Kuvhota hakudi mhirizhonga’. (Voting does not need violence). Zimbabwe is a mature and peaceful democratic country,” said Mnangagwa.
He urged youths not to abuse drugs and substances, but rather concentrate on developing the country.
“Young boys and girls I challenge you to remain loyal to your country; stay closely connected to your families and do not indulge in reckless and harmful lifestyle, stay away from drugs ‘nyika inotorwa makastika’ (The country will be taken while you’re drunk).
“As young people you should express your ideas and you should capacitate yourselves with life skills in keeping with the ever changing world. Also use ICTs to be innovative, to learn new skills and improve your ideas in developing the country,” said Mnangagwa.
He also said the party is committed to groom young people as there is now a youth quota in the national assembly.
“The party is advancing because of the youth and the constant conditions of youth development and employment both to create empowerment. The party is committed to grooming the young people of our country and for the first time in history we now have a youth quota in the national assembly under the Second Republic,” said Mnangagwa.
Speaking at the same event, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira said under the Second Republic Masvingo province has managed to complete most of its implemented projects.
“Out of 677 projects implemented under the Second Republic Masvingo province has managed to complete 537, and we have never witnessed such in the old dispensation, we have also completed 170 projects which only awaits commissioning through the devolution funds,” said Chadzamira.
Young Women for 4ED chairperson Tatenda Mavetera thanked the President for the support he gives women through various projects.
“In the Second Republic women are being recognized through various projects, and women are given the equal chance to participate in leadership because this year there are 10 women who qualified to be MPs and also we thank you for the women’s quota,” said Mavetera.
Most 4ED affiliates were represented at the rally, including Vapostori nemaZion4ED and a number of politburo members, including party Vice President Kembo Mohadi and National Commissar Dr Mike Bimha.
