20/07/2026
Choose dialogue over protests — Machakaire
REPORTER
ZANU PF secretary for Youth Affairs Tino Machakaire has urged Zimbabweans to reject planned anti-CAA3 demonstrations next week, saying concerns over Constitutional Amendment Act Number 3 should be addressed through dialogue rather than protests.
Opposition parties and pro-democracy groups are planning nationwide demonstrations next week as part of their campaign against CAA3, while the government has repeatedly appealed for peace and stability.
In a strongly worded statement, Machakaire said dialogue remained the best avenue for resolving national issues.
"Zimbabwe is a nation built on the values of unity, peace, dialogue and collective responsibility.
"At this critical stage of our country’s development, we must remain focused on building a better future rather than engaging in actions that have the potential to reverse the progress we have made.
"As Zimbabweans, we must not rush into demonstrations and protests without first exhausting the available channels of engagement and dialogue with Government.
"The Second Republic, under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has always maintained an open-door policy, where citizens, communities, organisations and various stakeholders have the opportunity to engage Government and State institutions on issues affecting them," he said.
Machakaire said the government remained committed to listening to citizens' concerns and finding lasting solutions through constructive engagement.
"The Government remains committed to listening to the concerns of the people and finding lasting solutions through constructive dialogue.
"Challenges faced by our nation can only be addressed when we come together as Zimbabweans and seek common ground through conversations that are guided by patriotism, respect and a shared desire to see our country prosper.
"Zimbabwe is on a development trajectory, with significant investments being made in infrastructure development, modernisation and the improvement of people’s livelihoods.
"Roads, schools, hospitals, dams and other critical projects are being developed across the country as part of efforts to create a better Zimbabwe for present and future generations," he said.
The Youth Affairs minister warned against actions that could undermine development, saying peace and stability were essential for the country's continued progress.
"We cannot allow ourselves to be found destroying the very infrastructure and national assets that are being developed for the benefit of our communities.
"Development requires peace, stability and cooperation from all citizens. Every Zimbabwean has a role to play in protecting the progress that has been achieved and ensuring that our country continues moving forward.
"As a nation, we must reject the politics of confrontation, division and destruction. Protests that result in instability, violence and the destruction of property do not provide solutions to the challenges facing our people.
"Instead, they create further suffering and setbacks, particularly for ordinary citizens who depend on a stable environment to work, do business and improve their lives.
"Divisions belong to the past. Confrontational politics is a thing of the past.
"The Second Republic has placed unity and dialogue at the centre of national development because we believe that Zimbabwe’s future can only be secured when its people work together," he said.
Machakaire also urged Zimbabweans, particularly young people, to use established channels to air their grievances rather than participate in demonstrations.
"To those who feel there are issues that require attention, our message is clear: engage through the proper channels.
"Even when you believe you have a genuine cause, the best way to achieve lasting solutions is through dialogue and engagement with relevant authorities and leadership structures.
"Let us choose conversation over confrontation, unity over division, and development over destruction.
"As young people, we remain loyal to our President, His Excellency Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, and the party, Zanu PF. We will continue to defend the values of unity, peace and development as the vanguard of the nation.
"However, we also call upon all young Zimbabweans to remain vigilant and avoid being used by individuals or groups pursuing selfish political interests at the expense of national progress.
"The youth are not instruments of destruction; we are builders of the future. Our energy, creativity and passion must be channelled towards innovation, entrepreneurship, skills development and contributing positively to the growth of our country.
"Let us remain peaceful, patriotic and committed to the development of Zimbabwe. Together, through unity and dialogue, we can overcome challenges and build the prosperous nation that we all desire," he said.