HARARE, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Tuesday called for national dialogue to set things right following disturbances that rocked the country last week following the recent hiking of fuel prices.
Mnangagwa, who arrived back home from a overseas tour after abandoning a scheduled trip to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum, said all political parties, religious and civil leaders should set aside their differences and work for the good of the country.
"What unites us is stronger than what could ever divide us. Let's begin a national dialogue. Let's put the economy first. Let's put the people first," he wrote on his Facebook page.
He said when he announced measures to stabilize the country's crucial fuel supply, he was aware that the measures may not be popular. However, it was the right thing to do.
"What followed was regrettable and tragic. Everyone has the right to protest, but this was not a peaceful protest," he said.
"Likewise, violence or misconduct by our security forces is unacceptable and a betrayal of the new Zimbabwe. Chaos and insubordination will not be tolerated. Misconduct will be investigated," he added.
Members of the public have accused soldiers and the police of assaulting innocent civilians in the wake of the disturbances that rocked major towns and cities and left at least three people dead, property destroyed and shops looted.
