By Own Correspondent|President Emmerson Mnangagwa has explained why his administration switched off the internet following protests that rocked the country last week.

In a statement released on his Twitter account, Mnangagwa said his Government had to temporarily restrict access to social media to stop people from planning and inciting disorder and to spread misinformation.

Said Mnangagwa:

I believe deeply in freedom of speech and expression, and these rights are enshrined in our constitution. You only need to look at a newspaper or read my social media comments to see the level of criticism I get, and I welcome this.

What we saw last week was the social networks being used to plan and incite disorder and to spread misinformation leading to violence. In response, the decision was taken to temporarily restrict access to prevent the wanton looting and violence, and to help restore calm.

I am aware of the criticism of this decision, and we did not take it lightly. The measures were temporary, tactical and aimed at restoring the peace. This has been achieved, all restrictions have been removed and I look forward to continuing to freely engage on social media.