Thabiso Nxumalo
MASVINGO- The National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) has blamed the western imposed sanctions for the increasing social conflicts in some of the country’s communities.
Speaking at the provincial peace committee meeting focusing on Preventive Dialogue engagements at Flamboyant Hotel, NPRC deputy chairperson Lillian Chigwedere accused organizations and individuals calling for sanctions for being peace saboteurs but applauded the general populace for showing resilience.
“Supporting and calling for illegal sanctions are in a big way promoting conflict through its effects that impoverish our communities. Zimbabweans have however shown immeasurable resilience as a people in the face of these sanctions,” said Chigwedere.
Chigwedere also added that communities around Zimbabwe have braved the challenging experiences by tirelessly working to improve the country’s economy.
“We have emerged stronger in the face of these seemingly overwhelming challenges and brick by brick, stone by stone we are building our economy which at 7.8% is among the fastest growing economies in the world,” added Chigwedere.
Also topical during the meeting was the issue of rise in domestic violence cases and murders recorded during the Covid-19 induced national lockdown where economic activities were tightened.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira also blamed the embargo and called upon NPRC commissioners to exercise their designated duties wholeheartedly.
“We stand against sanctions that are crippling our economy and furthermore call on all stakeholders for a peaceful Zimbabwe of all generations. I wish and trust that the Commissioners will fully execute their mandate,” said Chadzamira.
The NPRC is on a mission to visit all the ten provinces and preach the gospel of peace ahead of the upcoming 2023 general elections.
Recently, a Special United Nations Rapporteur on sanctions, Alen Douhan was in the country on a two weeks visit where she met political parties, civic society and other stakeholders to investigate the impact of sanctions on Zimbabwe.
