RETURNEES CONDEMN PLANNED DEMONSTRATIONS
By Chiyedzo Josiah Dimbo Ambassador of Hope
*Business leaders and SA Returnees in Mash West urge peace, productivity over protest*
Political leaders, business representatives and South African returnees in Mashonaland West have condemned planned demonstrations scheduled for tomorrow, urging residents to ignore calls for protests and continue with their normal activities.
The demonstrations have reportedly been organised by activists calling for a nationwide shutdown in protest against the Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 (CAA3).
Authorities have warned that any demonstrations not held in accordance with the law will not be tolerated, with the Zimbabwe Republic Police saying it will take action against anyone who engages in unlawful conduct.
*BUSINESS COMMUNITY SPEAKS*
Kadoma businessman and philanthropist, *Cde Jimayi Muduvuri*, dismissed the planned demonstrations, saying they would disrupt business and economic activity.
“As the business community, we want Zimbabweans to continue enjoying the peace and stability prevailing in the country,” he said.
“I encourage citizens to stay away from the planned demonstrations because any disruption negatively affects the economy.”
Echoing the sentiment, economic analysts point to hard data: the last three nationwide shutdowns in 2023 and 2024 cost the economy an estimated US$120 million in lost production, according to the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries. Thousands of working hours were wasted—over 2 million hours of labor lost per day of protest—while scores of businesses were forced to close, many permanently.
*RETURNEES URGE PRODUCTIVITY*
The call was also supported by South African returnees who have resettled in the province and are involved in various economic activities.
Provincial chairperson of the South African Returnees Association, *Mr Tsidzai Marodza*, said returnees should focus on productive work instead of participating in demonstrations.
“I encourage fellow returnees to ignore the planned demonstrations and continue working to improve the livelihoods of our families and contribute to national development,” he said.
“We are encouraged by the progress taking place in the country and believe our return will further support that development drive.”
Mr Marodza said the association was working with Zanu PF structures and the business community to mobilise capital for returnees to establish income-generating projects.
*AMBASSADOR OF PERSPECTIVE CALLS FOR PEACE*
Ambassador of Hope also weighed in, calling on citizens to choose dialogue over disruption.
“Instead of protesting, let us preach peace. Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called children of God,” he said.
“Peace is the foundation for development. Let us protect it.”
*SPOTLIGHT FRIGHTENS INVESTORS AND TOURISTS*
Beyond the immediate economic costs, the planned demonstrations risk putting an unnecessary and damaging spotlight on Zimbabwe on the international stage. Tourism sector insiders warn that images of unrest broadcast globally often have a chilling effect. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority reported that international tourist arrivals fell by 15% in the month following the 2023 protests, as travel advisories from key source markets triggered a wave of cancellations.
“Every protest makes international headlines,” said a local hotelier who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Potential investors see instability and pull back. Tourists see teargas and police vans and choose other destinations. The reputational damage lasts longer than the protest itself.”
Investment analysts note that foreign direct investment into Zimbabwe has remained flat at around US$300 million annually, far below regional peers, with political uncertainty cited as a top deterrent in investor surveys. Tomorrow’s planned action, even if small, risks reinforcing that negative perception.
*POLITICAL PARTIES CALL FOR DIALOGUE*
His sentiments were echoed by Senator Sengezo Tshabangu’s Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) provincial spokesperson, *Mr Tendayi Musonza*, who said the party remained committed to constitutionalism, constructive engagement and dialogue.
“Our approach is centred on pragmatic politics, mutual respect, inclusive dialogue and practical solutions to Zimbabwe’s challenges,” he said.
“Lasting national development cannot be achieved through conflict but through a shared commitment to the national interest.”
As the nation waits, the unified message from Mashonaland West is clear: peace, productivity, and patience are the better path—for the economy, for families, and for the country’s standing in the world.
TOP PIC: Provincial chairperson of the South African Returnees Association,Mr Tsidzai Marodza
