Zimbabweans Urge Mugabe to Apologize for Calling Kalangas Criminals
Some are now demanding an apology from the 91 year-old president, saying he was not supposed to attack his people in that manner
WASHINGTON DC — Some Zimbabweans have been irked by President Robert Mugabe’s remarks in which he scorned Kalanga people for allegedly committing crimes in South Africa and engaging in other uncouth activities. Mr. Mugabe made these remarks at a press conference on Wednesday soon after the end of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extra Ordinary Summit in Harare. His remarks have been criticized by most Zimbabweans, who are now demanding an apology from the 91 year-old president, saying he was not supposed to attack his people in that manner. Before making the remarks, Mr. Mugabe urged afrians living in South Africa to go back to their countries. At least 7 people died in the xenophobic attacks, which started in Durban. Some South Africans believe that foreigners are grabbing most jobs in the country and engaging in lucratic businesses supposed to be for indigenous people. For perspective, reporter Tatenda Gumbo reached Difa Dube, a Zimbabwean Kalanga living in Britain, and Morris Ngwenya, a political commentator and Zanu PFactivist. Ngwenya said some people are taking Mr. Mugabe’s remarks out of context for their own benefit. Dube said it was the job of President Mugabe to unite the nation, in particular as issues of xenophobia continue in South Africa.