25 Aug 2019
The National Association of Non Governmental Organisations (NANGO), the official umbrella body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe, notes with grave concern violent incidences that are happening in the country. Zimbabweans are known and cherished by many for their peacefulness and tolerance. However, events following demonstrations that were to be held in Harare on Friday 16 August, Bulawayo on Monday 19 August, Gweru on 20 August 2019 and other areas are denting the nature and character we are known for as a nation.
The state has an obligation to uphold the supreme law of the land and respect freedom of expression. NANGO, therefore, implores the government and state security to exercise restraint when responding to demonstrations. State and security agents should uphold the sanctity of life as prime and most important. They should also ensure the safety and security of women, children and people with disabilities.
NANGO encourages citizens to exercise their rights responsibly, respect the rights of others and stand guided by the constitution in order to effectively communicate grievances to the state. We encourage all key players to air grievances in an amicable way that ushers in sustainable peace and national development.
NANGO is a non-party political, non-profit making organisation and non-denominational official coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe with a membership complement of over a thousand organisations. It carries under its wings an amalgam of various issue constituencies and representative groups all with the singular focus of meeting the development needs of men, women and children in Zimbabwe.
