l have nothing to hide, fear, nor plot: Dzamara

By Itai Dzamara

Its very unfortunate that as each day passes, the nation of Zimbabwe becomes increasingly tense and limps on the edge of uncertainty.

Yesterday, the state made it clear in Harare that it has serious worries and fears, through huge numbers of police teams occasionally clearing Africa Unity Square and other areas in the central district.

The square has become a central point because of our sit-in, waiting for President Mugabe’s response to our demands over the national crisis. There were also some clashes between police and vendors in Harare. Reports suggest Gweru was characterised by tense situations as well.

My reliable sources say security leaders are developing a sentiment and which includes the fears and suspicion of ‘an uprising being organised by Itai Dzamara’. It is very unfortunate and will be a sad day, if Mugabe and the national authorities choose to misread and misinterpret the national situation.

I have used every minute of almost 15 hours l have spent since Friday, in engagements with state agents and representatives, to articulate that: Zimbabwe is on a knife edge and it is because Mugabe and his government have not only failed, but continue to deny the nation an opportunity to solve the crisis.

That is the essence of my petition and demands l presented to Mugabe on October 17, 2014. It is no longer mine, because, in just three days, many people have willingly joined in backing that position. That is our national problem, the failure and, worse, lack of practical, genuine ways of addressing the crisis.

I have genuinely been presenting to the authorities that, certainly, the Mugabe government has an opportunity to do the right things now and manage the situation in a better way, that saves the nation unnecessary trouble. I ardently desire that my demands, proposals and expression of intent – together many others – are found by Mugabe and government to require an urgent response and attention.

I have, since day 1, sacrifised at all cost, to engage and try to convince the state about the urgency of our situation and need for a collective, genuine as well as unifying way of solving the crisis. Now, if Mugabe and the state choose to remain unwilling to admit, humble themselves and engage towards solving the solution, they are effectively spurning a very crucial opportunity for the nation.

Them choosing to see or anticipate an ‘uprising’, instead, is very sad, because, l know that Zimbabweans are not desiring anything of that sort, but a way out of the national crisis. Mugabe and the state may actually end up creating for such bad developments in the country. There are elements that may harbour such plans and desires, but l have no doubt, they are in the minority.

The majority of Zimbabweans want peace, and progress.

In my case, it becomes a joke to suggest that my actions and attempt at contributing in the manner l have done, can be linked to something like an ‘uprising’. I have repeatedly challenged the state to test me in every way, and l will continue proving that l have nothing to hide, fear, nor plot.

I have openly and genuinely done everything thus far, since l submitted the petition a week ago. Rather, some elements within the state structure have resolved to either harm or paralyse me.

Yesterday, an attempt was made, to target me and a couple of my colleagues, which included a high speed chase by seven riot police members, and individuals in civic attire, until we sought refugee at Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights offices. 

I wish to make it clear to the elements within the state that, they may harm or paralyse me and a few others, but surely without doing anything at all towards solving the national crisis.

I am just one individual and was challenged to stand up and make a contribution. I have no regrets nor apology about it. In fact, l would appeal to Mugabe and the state to stop looking at a few individuals or voices raising concern, but to understand the crisis in its reality and entirety.

The state now knows that my second name is Peace. I have failed to get who, of my parents gave me that name, because that moment in 1979 was prophetic. My heart burns with desire to see a peaceful way out of our national crisis and search for a solution. That is what forced me to step out and bear every danger that comes with making my modest contribution.

I made a decision consciously, to jump onto the risk and make my contribution. I really believe it can be done, and Mugabe carries the key for unlocking this national situation of tension, uncertainty and trepidation. There is one way for the good, which is that Mugabe must embrace the gesture of goodwill, humbleness, peace and love for the nation.

We are continuing to wait for Mugabe’s response at Africa Unity Square. I urge every Zimbabwean to refuse to be involved in any plans that may breach peace and national order. We do not need an uprising, but we need to combine our voices in a civil, peaceful and resolute manner, to make our demands heard.

Those in Harare, come and join us, in a peaceful, civil and resolute manner.