Harare, (New Ziana) – The government on Monday warned against spreading rumours and fake news targeting the country’s leadership which have a potential to destabilise the nation.

Following what has been described as a Black Friday, in which the country lost four prominent personalities including Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Biggie Matiza to Covid-19 on January 22, there was a hike in reports that other top leaders were on their death beds.

Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Senate Deputy President Retired Lieutenant Mike Nyambuya were among other top ruling Zanu PF officials said to be critically ill, which has been proven to be untrue.

In the case of VP Chiwenga, the social media claimed that he been airlifted to China.

“Let us be reminded that such acts, have the effect of causing alarm and despondency, not only to the individuals affected and their families, but to the nation as a whole,” Home Affairs permanent secretary Aaron Nhepera said.

“This has a destabilising effect at a time the nation is grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Over 1 000 people, including four government Ministers, have succumbed to the deadly flue-virus since March last year.

Nhepera said that Covid-19 was wrecking havoc was a fact, but did not give individuals justification for spreading lies.

Already some activists have been dragged to court for publishing falsehoods.

New Ziana