By Nyasha Nhau
In response to the removal of rank marshals in Manicaland Province,(Mutare in particular )prompted by crimes committed against residents, particularly passengers, Henry Nyika, Chairperson of the Zanu PF-affiliated Mahwindi for Economic Development (Mahwindi 4ED), has suggested that authorities are inadvertently institutionalizing crimes.
In a statement to this publication, Nyika expressed concern, stating, “There are a few well-known individuals affiliated with our association who are involved in criminal activities within their communities.
“The authorities are aware of their identities and whereabouts, yet they choose to generalize and label all rank marshals in the same manner.”
He further remarked, “the authorities have made the harsh decision to ban all rank marshals from managing the ranks, attributing misconduct to all of us.
“In my view, this is akin to institutionalizing crimes, it is unjust to penalize all teachers for the misdeeds of one.”
Another rank marshal, speaking anonymously, drew parallels between the authorities’ actions and those of some opposition supporters, who implicate the entire ruling Zanu PF party for the transgressions of individual members.
“Whenever individuals associated with Zanu PF commit crimes within communities, the entire ruling party is implicated,” he stated.
He cited a case in Chitungwiza involving an individual named Pius Jamba, who allegedly murdered opposition activist Moreblessing Ali.
“Following this incident, opposition leaders and supporters accused Zanu PF party of being responsible for such actions across the country, even though it was the act of one party member.”
“It is public knowledge that Jamba and the late Ali were in a personal relationship, which unfortunately ended in violence,” he said.
“The opposition, however, chose to portray this as an institutionalized crime.”
Chairman Nyika emphasized the need for constructive engagement with authorities to find lasting solutions to the challenges faced by rank marshals, who have been removed from their livelihoods.
In a developing story, authorities have decided to establish a new structure of rank marshals to replace Mahwindi 4ED, despite their allegations that the current rank marshals are responsible for chaos and elevated crime rates in public areas, citing issues such as substance abuse among them.
In response to this development, Mahwindi 4ED Association has alleged that “certain individuals in positions of authority are orchestrating this action with the intention of establishing their own association for personal gain.”