By Correspondent.
Chiredzi, Zimbabwe. (News of The South ) – Zanu PF government has started threatening Non-Governmental Organizations operating in Chiredzi with marching orders amid claims that the relief givers are participating in political activism.
The claims comes after the Former Masvingo Provincial Governor Titus Maluleke once banned the operation of NGOs such as Care International after they were accused of siding with the opposition.
This latest purge comes as the country is warming up for an election in which Zanu PF has been accused of abusing food distributions from the Ministry of Social Welfare for political gain.
Addressing guests at the NGO forum held in Chiredzi on Thursday,newly appointed Chiredzi District Administrator Lovemore Chisema told the NGOs that they will not watch them participate in political activities.
Although most NGO’s have complimented government efforts after it failed to address cases of hunger at Chingwizi Transit Camp and when more than 1000 families were left homeless after the El-Nino Induced Flood.
“We don’t want a situation in which NGO’s come from Harare and go straight to meet the communities without advising the district of their intensions,” he said.
“What message will you be hiding, why shun engaging government departments if
you are genuine, we want you to work and your work must be in the confines of the agreements which you signed,” said Chisema.
He said as the country prepares for elections, NGOs not be found on the wrong side of the law.
He said if found doubling into political activism, they are likely to be booted out of the district.
“Leave politics for the politicians, we are preparing for elections set for next year and you must not be found on the wrong side of the law. Stick to the confines of you MOU, you must operate apolitically so as to remain relevant and acceptable,” said Chisema.
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