The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has accused the Zanu PF led government of using the Cholera outbreak in Harare to stop its planned anniversary celebrations.
The opposition party plans to celebrate its 19th anniversary with a rally set for Gwanzura stadium this Saturday.
However, the police banned public gatherings in the city owing to a Cholera outbreak that has claimed 21 lives so far.
In response, the party said, “these illegal attempts by ZRP to cancel events on health grounds are an excuse for ZANU PF’s downright fear of citizens”.
“ZRP has no business declaring health emergencies as this should be the preserve of health professionals and institutions,” the party spokesperson, Jacob Mafume said.
“It is not clear why the ZRP is dealing with issues of health. Even then, is this a vote of no confidence in the Minister and Ministry of Health of this illegitimate government?”
Mafume said President Mnangagwa was displaying his dictatorial characteristics.
“We all know too well what happens when people’s rights are readily abused by dictators,” he said.
“We know how such dictators end up running countries that are unstable and economies that are stagnant”.
Mafume said the turnout by its supporters when MDC leader Nelson Chamisa toured Glen View and Budiriro, the Cholera hotspots, instilled fear in the government.
“The numbers on the streets of Glen View and Budiriro, were a clear sign of things to come at Gwanzura Stadium. Hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans are expected to overrun the stadium this weekend,” said Mafume.
“We call upon President Mnangagwa’s illegitimate government to stop fearing the people of Zimbabwe. This government must remember that, no matter what it does, the fate of this country is in the hands of the people of Zimbabwe”.
Mafume was however cryptic on their next move after their celebrations were halted.
