“We Will Beat You Up”: Pro-Zanu PF Group Issues Chilling Warning to Mnangagwa Critics
Tinashe Sambiri– A group calling itself the Zimbabwe Anti-Presidential Insult Team has sparked outrage after issuing violent threats against critics of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The group, led by Andrew Pasinawako, warned that anyone perceived to be insulting the President would face physical retaliation, raising serious concerns about intolerance and political intimidation.
In a statement circulating this week, Pasinawako appeared to openly encourage violence against dissenting voices.
“Make sure you insult the President while you are in foreign countries. Here in Zimbabwe we will beat you up. We are no longer tolerating nonsense in Zimbabwe. Stop playing with the Head of State,” he said.
The remarks have drawn criticism for promoting lawlessness and undermining freedom of expression, with observers warning that such rhetoric could escalate tensions in an already polarised political environment.
In another message, the group doubled down on its threats, declaring:
“Let us be clear to everyone in this country of Zimbabwe! If you insult the President and we catch you, you will tell others! We are no longer tolerating any nonsense.”
Despite claiming to advocate for peace and development, the group’s statements appeared contradictory, as they continued to justify intimidation.
“We need peace, development and respect for the leadership of our beloved country. Be warned,” the statement read.
The group also used the opportunity to pledge unwavering loyalty to Mnangagwa, particularly in relation to Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, while rallying support in Masvingo Province.
“President Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa is our champion of development. We will defend him till further notice without fear,” the statement added.
The emergence of such threats has heightened fears over political violence and shrinking democratic space, as critics warn that normalising intimidation against opposing views could have far-reaching consequences for Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
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