“MNANGAGWA, STOP EXPLOITING OUR YOUTH FOR POLITICAL GAIN" – by Renee Brenda Langa

26th May 2024

Growing up in Zimbabwe, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of the Zimbabwe National Youth Service (NYS), known to many as the Youth Brigade or "Green Bombers," a ZANU-PF initiative. This program, which was supposed to empower our youth through skills training and nation-building, instead became synonymous with fear and violence. I remember the stories of villagers intimidated, harassed, beaten, maimed and killed by these youths, particularly during election times. The NYS, far from being a force for good, became a tool for oppression and control.

Emmerson Mnangagwa, the ZANU-PF leader, has reintroduced this controversial program. While the government promises that the new version of the NYS will provide jobs and skills training, I, like many others, remain deeply sceptical. We’ve seen how the program has been used in the past—to coerce and exploit economically disadvantaged youths, who are drawn into its ranks with promises of opportunity that often go unfulfilled. These young people, desperate for any chance at a better life, end up being manipulated for political purposes, their futures sacrificed for the ruling party's agenda.

The disparity between the lives of these youths and the children of top ZANU-PF officials is stark and infuriating. While the elite sends their children abroad for the best education money can buy, our less fortunate peers are conscripted into the NYS, indoctrinated, and often forced into violent roles. This hypocrisy only deepens the sense of injustice and mistrust many of us feel towards our leaders. It's a bitter pill to swallow, knowing that while some enjoy the benefits of stolen wealth, others are pushed into harmful and dangerous situations.

The looming 2028 elections compound our worries. The NYS has a grim history of being deployed to intimidate voters and stifle opposition. With its revival, I dread a reoccurrence of past atrocities. The notion of these trained youths being manipulated once more to sway and regulate the electoral process is not just disconcerting—it’s an immediate peril to our democracy. It’s disheartening to hold onto hope when history appears destined to replay, and the fate of our nation feels perilously balanced on the whims of those in power.

Reflecting on all this, it’s clear that real change is needed. The reintroduction of the NYS must be met with scrutiny and a demand for accountability. We need to ensure that any program aimed at youth development genuinely serves our young people's interests, not for political expedience. Only then can we begin to rebuild trust and move towards a future where democracy and human rights are truly respected in Zimbabwe.

Emmerson Mnangagwa must stop exploiting our youth for political gain.

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Secretary for Information & Publicity for the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at reneelanga378@gmail.com OR renee.langa@rohr-zimbabwe.org

ZIMBABWE - A DEATH-TRAP - by Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu

26th May 2024

In Zimbabwe, there have been various human rights violations, the chief of which is the right to access basic healthcare services.

The right to healthcare services is enshrined in Section 76(1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, according to which the government is obliged to “take all practical measures to ensure the provision of basic, accessible and adequate health services throughout the country.” The Public Health Act [Chapter 15:17] complements this.

Article 16 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (a.k.a. the Banjul Charter) also obliges the government of Zimbabwe to take the necessary measures to protect the health of its people and ensure that they receive medical attention, as does Article 25 of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Whilst the international and domestic constitutional and legislative framework is in place, the government of Zimbabwe has abdicated its responsibilities and has presided over the collapse of a once robust healthcare system.

The infrastructure is in tatters, countrywide. A general lack of equipment is accompanied by a severe shortage of essential medicines in hospitals and clinics. Healthcare professionals, like all other civil servants, are poorly remunerated and forced to work under very stressful and demoralising conditions. This not only affects their ability to provide quality care but also impacts their own right to fair working conditions.

Political interference in healthcare worsens an already bad situation. At one point, retired general Constantino Chiwenga was appointed Minister of Health and Child Care. This was based on his reputation for ruthlessness and the expectation that he would quash the wave of strikes by doctors and nurses. The result was the acceleration of the exodus of doctors and nurses to other countries,

The net result of all the above is that every citizen, apart from the political elite and the wealthy is at risk of premature death.

Reproductive Health Services are denied. As a result, many women in Zimbabwe face challenges accessing reproductive health services, including maternal healthcare. This results in preventable maternal deaths and violates women's right to health and life.

Victims of road traffic accidents die prematurely because of a shortage of ambulances, equipment, staff and medicines at hospitals and clinics.

Most diseases and conditions that are easily treatable or manageable lead to premature deaths in Zimbabwe because of the shortage of equipment, staff and medicines at hospitals and clinics.

Zimbabwean hospitals and clinics, as has the whole country, have become death traps.

The sad thing is that there is no hope for change in the situation until there is a change in the ruling party and government. That is why most human rights activists like me are dying for a change of government if Zimbabwean people are to be saved.

About the author
Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at michellempofu11@gmail.com OR michelle.mpofu@rohr-zimbabwe.org

THE GOLD RUSH AND ZiG-ZaG - ZIMBABWE'S ECONOMIC TURMOIL EXPOSED – By Renee Langa

5th May 2024

As Zimbabweans, we are amid economic turmoil exacerbated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's
poor and self-serving leadership.

The introduction of the ZiG currency, purportedly to address inflation, reflects a pattern of mismanagement and whimsical decisions by the ZANU-PF-led government. Market traders, transport operators, industry and commerce bear the brunt of these policies.

Facing uncertainty and having learnt lessons from the past, they are relying on more stable foreign currencies like the US dollar due to a lack of faith in the ZiG. In doing so they are potentially breaking “the law” and are prone to its wrath.

The introduction of the ZiG currency pegged to gold has failed to restore confidence due to several factors, including doubt about the quantity of the gold reserves.

The well-publicised Gold Mafia scandal and widespread smuggling of gold, with the tacit involvement of the First Family, other senior ZANU-PF officials, and cronies betray our trust. It highlights a pattern of governance that prioritises personal gain over the welfare of Zimbabweans, a fact that should not be taken lightly.

The incident involving Henrietta Rushwaya, President of the Zimbabwe Miner's Federation and a niece of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was caught with 6kg of gold bars in her handbag while travelling from Harare to Dubai in 2020, exemplifies the depth of corruption and illicit activities within Zimbabwe's leadership and mining sector and is a case in point.

This scandal directly implicates a prominent figure in the mining industry and reflects broader systemic issues of exploitation and abuse of resources for personal gain. The incident underscores the failure of leadership, including that of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, to curb rampant corruption and protect national resources for the benefit of all Zimbabweans. It highlights the urgent and immediate need for transparent governance and effective reforms.

Citizens grapple with the consequences of these failures in their daily lives. This economic instability extends to critical areas like health and education. People are dying prematurely because of a lack of well-equipped hospitals. Families are struggling to put food on the table, let alone pay school fees in US dollars, highlighting the profound impact of misguided leadership on everyday life.

It underscores the urgent need for sweeping reforms to restore accountability and rebuild public trust in leadership that has failed to meet its responsibilities so far.

The Economist's critique of 'miracle money' reflects not just his scepticism but a widespread doubt towards hastily introduced monetary measures that do not address underlying economic issues. Overall, Zimbabwe's economic woes reflect a systemic crisis of governance and accountability, undermining efforts to stabilise the country's currency and restore public trust.

As concerned citizens, we must demand accountability and work towards rebuilding trust in Zimbabwe's leadership and institutions. This brings the pertinent question of government legitimacy to the fore.

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Secretary for Information & Publicity of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at reneelanga378@gmail.com OR renee.langa@rohr-zimbabwe.org

MY THOUGHTS ON WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY – by Renee Brenda Langa

3rd May 2024

On World Press Freedom Day, today 3rd of May 2024, my thoughts turn to Zimbabwe, where the ongoing struggle for democracy, freedom of speech, and human rights under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government weighs heavily on my mind. This day holds profound significance as we reflect on the challenges faced by journalists and activists who bravely confront adversity in their quest for a better Zimbabwe.

The NewsDay bombing on January 28, 2001, was a stark and chilling reminder of the risks faced by independent reporters. The attack on NewsDay's offices sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, highlighting the dangers of speaking truth to power in a climate of political repression. It underscored the personal threats and challenges encountered daily while striving to uphold press freedom and report on critical issues. The bombing was not just an assault on a news organization; it was an attack on our collective commitment to democracy and the fundamental right to free speech. Such events reinforced our resolve to continue our work despite the risks, determined to shine a light on injustice and hold those in power accountable.

The stories of individuals like Tawanda Muchehiwa, Lavender Chiwaya, and Denford Ngadziore resonate deeply with me. Tawanda, a journalism student and the nephew of Mduduzi Mathuthu, endured unimaginable torture after being abducted from his home by suspected ZANU-PF agents. His subsequent arrest on dubious charges compounded the injustice he faced.

Lavender Chiwaya's tragic fate underscores the dangers confronting those who dare to challenge the status quo. His mysterious death near his home, amid allegations of ZANU-PF involvement, casts a dark shadow over the struggle for a more just society.

Denford Ngadziore's family also suffered greatly when his wife and infant child were abducted, highlighting the pervasive climate of fear and intimidation that stifles dissent in Zimbabwe.

As we mark World Press Freedom Day, I stand in solidarity with these courageous individuals and countless others who risk everything to expose injustice and advocate for change. Their resilience inspires us to redouble our efforts in defending press freedom and upholding human rights.

Today, let us reaffirm our commitment to a Zimbabwe where freedom of speech is cherished, dissent is respected, and human rights are non-negotiable. The struggle continues, and our voices must be heard.

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist and a member of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe based in the United Kingdom. She can be contacted by email at reneelanga378@gmal.com OR renee.langa@rohr-zimbabwe.org

 

N🚫 PRESS FREEDOM UNDER THE DICTATORSHIP RULE IN ZIMBABWE - By Basil Kamombe

 3rd May 2024

Zimbabwe has experienced progressive shrinkage of democratic space over the past nearly four and half decades of ZANU-PF rule.

This has been achieved through the enactment of a plethora of draconian laws, examples of which are the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill (Commonly referred to as “The Patriotic Act), purportedly designed to outlaw what they broadly call “unpatriotic acts”, which essentially include criticising the President or the government of Zimbabwe from abroad, the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (PVO), the Maintenance of Public Order Act (MOPO) and the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021.

The Fourth Estate, as some would call the press and news media, has borne the brunt of ZANU-PF and the draconian laws. The main reason is that the press and news media tend to tell it as it is, and yet the truth makes ZANU-PF very uncomfortable.

Critiquing the government or reporting on sensitive issues has led to the persecution of journalists and the destruction of media houses.

Some examples include:

1.     The sustained persecution of journalists like Hopewell Chin’ono and Mduduzi Mathuthu. The two have been arrested multiple times for their investigative reporting, particularly on corruption and human rights abuses.

2.     Blessed Mhlanga, Chengeto Chidi, Hope Chizuzu, Garikai Mafirakureva, Annahstacia Ndlovu, Pamenus Tuso, and Lungelo Ndlovu are among the growing list of journalists arrested and hounded by the State in a bid to silence the private media completely.

3.     The intimidation and harassment of journalists by authorities, including surveillance, threats, and physical violence, consequently, create a climate of fear and self-censorship.

4.     The shutting down of independent media outlets, such as the Daily News, for critical reporting. This limits the diversity of voices and restricts access to information.

5.     Restrictive laws like the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (PVO), the Maintenance of Public Order Act (MOPO) and the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021 have been used to silence dissent and control the media. The Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill (Commonly referred to as “The Patriotic Act) even goes as far as prescribing the death penalty.

These examples illustrate the challenges faced by journalists who strive to uphold press freedom and hold those in power accountable in Zimbabwe.

Emmerson Mnangagwa has iron-fistedly ensured that only government-controlled media houses like ZBC/ZTV can broadcast and publications like The Herald and The Chronicle can disseminate news through print.

Of course, this aids Emmerson Mnangagwa’s dynasty-building effort and ZANU-PF’s push for totalitarian rule via a One-Party State.

As the world celebrates World Press Freedom Day today, May 3rd, 2024, in Zimbabwe, we mourn the absence of press freedom and freedom of speech.

About the author
Basil Kamombe is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is the Deputy Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. He can be contacted via email and mobile phone details below;-

basil.kamombe@rohr-zimbabwe.org
+447565726052

#NoPressPlay
#PressStop
#ZanuPFHasFailED
#ZanuPFMustGo
#FreeSpeech
#FreePress

MAY DAY CALL FOR CHANGE – by Renee Brenda Langa

1st May 2024,

Today, as we observe International Workers' Day, we must confront the harsh realities Zimbabwean workers face.

Zimbabwe is abundantly endowed with natural resources.

The mining sector alone boasts over 40 minerals, including high export earners like gold, lithium, platinum, diamonds, and chrome.

In the agricultural sector, Zimbabwe has arable land and a suitable climate.

On top of this, we have the kind of human capital that is the envy of most developed nations and that could provide manpower for what can be a thriving manufacturing sector.

Yet our people see little benefit from all these treasures. Natural resources should be the cornerstone of prosperity for all Zimbabweans, not just the political elite in ZANU-PF, who benefit from corrupt, lucrative export deals.

Value addition is one of the obvious solutions, as it will increase export earnings and employment opportunities. However, the ZANU-PF government is not keen on this as it reduces opportunities for its leaders to enrich themselves through corrupt deals with foreigners.

The government under Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is failing Zimbabwe's citizens by not creating a conducive environment for the establishment of local industries that could provide employment and by not investing in the infrastructure needed to support such industries.

This deliberate neglect and the lack of transparency in how our resources are managed amounts to the betrayal of every Zimbabwean.

We need a change of government from the current ZANU–PF–led self-serving one to one that will urgently redirect our focus and ensure that our natural wealth is used to build, not break our nation's economy.

This May Day, let's start a new chapter anchored on honesty, accountability, and sustainable development to provide real jobs and futures for our people."

#MaydayMayday
#DistressCall

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist and a member of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe based in the United Kingdom. She can be contacted by email at reneelanga378@gmal.com