The National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) commends His Excellency President E.D. Mnangagwa and the Government of Zimbabwe for successfully leading the nation in the management of the Covid-19 pandemic since the proclamation of the 21 day lockdown period. All sectors of society are applauded for supporting Government efforts in the fight against the deadly pandemic. Together we are stronger and we can.

During the lockdown days covered so far, the NPRC noted a commendable level of compliance by citizens (though some attempted to defy the lockdown measures), a remarkable restraint by law enforcement officers (although some few misguided and undisciplined elements tarnished the image of the sector by acts of abusing citizens). The Commission continues to implore cooperation between the state and citizens during the remaining days of the lockdown.

The media played a positive role in informing the nation on Covid-19, the lockdown, compliance by the citizens and enforcement by the security sector. There is need for an improvement of relations between the media and the security sector. The Commission implores the media to practice responsible and peace journalism by avoiding sensationalised reportage. The security sector is also urged to respect the constitutional rights of all accredited media practitioners. Both the security sector and the media are critical and are urged to exercise restraint, maturity, respect and tolerance towards each other in the performance of their constitutional obligations.

The NPRC noted a marked increase in Gender Based Violence (GBV) and implores families to take advantage of this lockdown to build sound relationships, mend broken ones, appreciate one another and live in peaceful coexistence. The State is urged, as prescribed by the law, to take all reported cases of GBV seriously and protect all victims and survivors of GBV during this period.

Government is applauded for the initiative to provide safety nets for the vulnerable and deserving populations of our society as a result of the lockdown. The Commission urges transparency, fairness and non-partisanship in the registration of beneficiaries and the distribution of resources. All stakeholders in the value chain are implored to desist from corrupt and profiteering tendencies.

PEACE BEGINS WITH ME PEACE BEGINS WITH YOU PEACE BEGINS WITH ALL OF US.