In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the local community, a police officer stationed in Nkayi finds himself in hot water after attending a Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) rally featuring the charismatic party leader, Nelson Chamisa. Officer Henry Masimbe is now facing serious charges of actively participating in politics, a violation that could have severe consequences for his career.
According to sources close to the matter, Masimbe allegedly hatched an elaborate scheme to attend the controversial rally. Under the guise of collecting a murder docket at Nesingwe Police Post, the officer cunningly made his way to the venue of the political gathering, Nesingwe Growth Point.
Eyewitnesses claim that Masimbe shed his police jacket to reveal a yellow T-shirt, the unmistakable color associated with the CCC. He was spotted enthusiastically following Chamisa’s convoy, chanting the party slogan and proudly raising his index finger. The charge sheet against him explicitly states that he clapped his hands and actively acknowledged Chamisa’s speech, which is a clear violation of the law.
The charge sheet also points out that Masimbe’s actions directly contravene the code of conduct expected of a police officer. By associating himself with a political organization, in this case, the CCC, he has wrongfully and unlawfully ventured into the realm of politics. Masimbe’s attendance at the rally and his vocal support for the party have raised serious concerns about his impartiality and neutrality as a law enforcement officer.
News of the charges against Masimbe has caused a stir within the community, with many eager to see how the case unfolds. Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the police spokesperson stated that the matter had not yet reached the national headquarters.
This is not the first time a police officer in Zimbabwe has found themselves in trouble for their political leanings. Just last year, Milton Murairwa faced charges of undermining the authority of President Emmerson Mnangagwa after allegedly posting a critical message on a police WhatsApp group. The message read “ED ne Team yake Must GO”. It seems that political entanglements within the police force continue to be an issue of concern.
The government has taken a firm stance on civil servants participating in political activities, explicitly banning them from holding office in any political party. However, critics argue that senior civil servants, such as presidential spokesperson George Charamba and Information permanent secretary Ndavaningi Mangwana, have been allowed to dabble in politics without consequence.
Trade unionist Calisto Gondo weighed in on the matter, calling for the application of the civil service code across the board. Gondo emphasized the importance of fair and consistent disciplinary actions, asserting that both lower-ranking officers and senior civil servants should be held to the same standards.
As Officer Masimbe’s case unfolds, the public eagerly awaits the outcome. Will justice be served, or will political divisions within the civil service continue to cast a shadow on the system? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more updates on this gripping saga as it unfolds!
