Submitted by Carla:

Harare – President Robert Mugabe, draped in military regalia and praising the loyalty of the armed forces, had accused his opponents of trying to create economic suffering and vowed to maintain order.

Mugabe, making a speech on Tuesday at a military parade marking the annual Defence Forces Day, again accused government opponents of being responsible for price increases, saying they and Western economic sanctions were meant to create “extreme hardship” in the country.

The United States and the European Union had slapped asset freezes and a travel ban on Mugabe and his top associates, but Mugabe often portrayed the sanctions as being much broader and targeting his whole economy.

Price cuts lead to panic buying

In the worst economic crisis since independence in 1980, official inflation was given as 4 500%, the highest in the world, but independent estimates put it closer to 9 000%. Western leaders and opposition activists blame Mugabe’s rule.

A government order slashing prices of all goods and services by about half in June had led to acute shortages of cornmeal, bread, meat, gasoline and other basic commodities.

The price cuts led to panic buying and hoarding, and retailers had not restocked, saying the government-ordered prices were below what they paid for goods.

Mugabe said: “Thankfully, the government moved to stem price increases meant of cause unbearable suffering of our people and push them into lawless and disorderly conduct.

“I wish to remind all those involved in such unscrupulous activities that the security and welfare of this country and its citizens remain a top priority.”

Financial constraints

He spoke in a 30 000-seat stadium filled to capacity for military displays and a free soccer match.

Mugabe said: “I would like to thank the defence forces for remaining loyal and dedicated to the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in these trying times.”

However, he conceded that “financial constraints” had prevented completion of a programme to provide new barracks for the army.

In the economic meltdown, the military acknowledged last year that some troops were sent home on extended leave because of shortages of food and accommodation.

Earlier this year, eight civilians were arrested on treason charges for allegedly plotting to recruit soldiers to overthrow the government. Initial court hearings had been held behind closed doors.

Independent human rights monitors had accused troops, police and ruling party militants of carrying out state-orchestrated rights violations and intimidation of political opponents.

http://www.news24.com/News24/Africa/Zimbabwe/0,,2-11-1662_2164996,00.html