Commemorating the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances: Remembering the Disappeared in Zimbabwe

30th August 2024 

On this International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, we pause to reflect on the lives lost, the anguish endured, and the relentless pursuit of justice that continues for countless families across the world. For those of us from Zimbabwe and the broader diaspora, this day holds particular significance. It serves as a solemn reminder of our nation's tragic history, where enforced disappearances have been weaponized by the ZANU-PF regime, led by Emmerson Mnangagwa, to silence dissent and instill fear. These heinous crimes have persisted, targeting those who dare to oppose the oppressive regime. We honor all those who have been forcibly disappeared in Zimbabwe and around the world. It is a day to renew our commitment to holding Mnangagwa and his government accountable and to ensuring that such crimes do not go unpunished.

Enforced disappearance is not just a crime; it is an insidious form of oppression that erases individuals from their communities, families, and societies. This brutal practice dates back to the era of Robert Mugabe’s rule in Zimbabwe, during which the current president, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, was a key figure in the same oppressive government. The government, now led by Mnangagwa and still controlled by ZANU-PF, continues to employ these horrifying tactics to suppress opposition and maintain its grip on power. Those who are forcibly taken often vanish without a trace, detained without charges or trial, hidden away from the world, and denied their basic human rights. Their families are left in agonizing limbo, trapped between hope and despair, seeking answers that are too often never provided.

In Zimbabwe, the dark legacy of enforced disappearances haunts the collective memory of our nation. Names like Paul Chizuze, Tonderai Ndira, and Beta Chokururama evoke deep pain and enduring questions that demand answers. These men were all MDC activists who stood against the oppressive ZANU-PF regime, and their disappearances are stark reminders of the lengths to which this regime will go to maintain control. Patrick Nabanyama, a union leader and MDC activist, disappeared in 2000, his case emblematic of the state's crackdown on dissent during a time of political and economic turmoil in Zimbabwe. These individuals, along with countless others whose names are less known, represent the enduring struggle for human rights and justice in Zimbabwe.

Itai Dzamara, a Zimbabwean journalist and political activist, was among those who bravely confronted the regime. His disappearance remains a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice in Zimbabwe.  Thembalami Ndebele, an MDC activist who was abducted in 2002. Days later, Central Intelligence Organization officers delivered a death certificate to his family, yet his remains have never been found. The pursuit of justice for the disappeared in Zimbabwe and elsewhere is a long and challenging journey. However, it is one that we must continue to walk. We believe that justice will prevail and that no stone will be left unturned. We pray that the souls of the disappeared rest in power.

On this International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, let us stand in solidarity with the families and communities still seeking answers. Let us remember the disappeared and commit to a future where such atrocities are not only condemned but also prevented.

#StopEnforcedDisappearances  
#StopAbductions
#ZANUPFMustGo
#MnangagwaAccountability    

About the author
Memory Kishindo is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe: A Nation in Crisis

29th August 2024

Our beloved Zimbabwe is suffering. Our people are plagued by hunger, a failing education system, and inadequate healthcare facilities. Meanwhile, under the leadership of Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the ruling political party, ZANU-PF, continues to loot our nation's wealth, serving their selfish interests while the masses struggle to survive.

When we speak up—when we demand our basic human rights—we are met with violence, torture, and unlawful arrests. But we will not be silenced. We will continue to fight for our rights until real change comes to Zimbabwe.

Let us not be afraid. Let us never lose hope. No matter how long and dark the night may be, dawn will eventually break. The light of justice and freedom will prevail.

We must unite and stand strong against violence and oppression. The time has come for new leadership, for a government that truly serves the people.

#NoToViolence

#WeNeedNewLeaders

#ZANUPFMustGo

We will not stop fighting for our human rights. Together, we will overcome.

About the author
Memory Kishindo is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. 

 

Zimbabwean President Continues to Abuse Power - Courts Weaponised Against Activists

 26th August 2024

In Zimbabwe, the fight for democracy and human rights has taken a dark turn as the judiciary, once a pillar of justice, increasingly becomes an instrument of repression. Under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the courts have been systematically used to silence dissent, target activists, and shut down opposition voices, casting a long shadow over the country’s political landscape. 

Since assuming office in 2017, President Mnangagwa promised to break away from the oppressive regime of his predecessor, Robert Mugabe. However, despite these promises, the situation for political activists, journalists, and opposition members in Zimbabwe has deteriorated significantly. Human rights organisations and international observers have consistently raised concerns about the use of the judiciary as a tool for political control. The courts in Zimbabwe have become notorious for their bias against activists. High-profile cases have seen opposition leaders and civil society members arrested on dubious charges, often with little evidence presented in court. These arrests are frequently followed by lengthy detentions, denying the accused their right to a fair trial and due process. Bail is often denied on questionable grounds, with some activists languishing in prison for extended periods without trial.

Once vibrant and active in Zimbabwe, civil society organisations have also felt the heavy hand of state repression. The government has cracked down on NGOs, particularly those involved in human rights work, accusing them of being foreign agents or destabilising forces. Legal challenges and administrative hurdles have been deployed to limit the activities of these groups, making it increasingly difficult for them to operate. This crackdown extends to media organisations, where independent journalists and outlets that criticise the government face harassment, arrests, and even physical attacks. Laws restricting freedom of expression and access to information are selectively enforced, ensuring that only pro-government narratives dominate the public discourse. 

The international community has not been silent on these issues. Various human rights bodies, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have condemned the Zimbabwean government’s actions. Western governments have also issued statements expressing concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in the country. However, despite these condemnations, the situation on the ground remains dire, with little sign that the government is willing to change course.

The weaponisation of the judiciary in Zimbabwe under President Mnangagwa represents a significant threat to the country’s democratic future. By using the courts to silence activists, suppress opposition, and control civil society, the government is undermining the rule of law and eroding the very foundations of justice. As Zimbabwe approaches a critical juncture in its political history, the need for international solidarity with its activists and a renewed commitment to human rights and democracy has never been greater.

The future of Zimbabwe depends not only on the resilience of its people but also on the global community’s willingness to stand up against the misuse of power and the suppression of fundamental freedoms.

About the author

Newton Tapiwa Mpofu is a Zimbabwean political activist based in the United Kingdom

The Illusion of Agricultural Prosperity SADC Leaders Duped by Zimbabwe’s Showcase Farm

23 August, 2024

During a recent visit to Zimbabwe, leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) were treated to what appeared to be a triumphant display of agricultural success. The tour included a stop at a flourishing farm that was presented as a testament to Zimbabwe’s agricultural renaissance. However, beneath the surface of this grand spectacle lies a far more troubling reality. The farm showcased to SADC leaders belongs to none other than Zimbabwe’s president, a fact that casts a long shadow over the authenticity of the visit. 

The leaders were shown a picture-perfect image of green fields, well-fed livestock, and thriving crops, all designed to create the impression that Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is on the path to recovery after years of decline. Yet, this carefully curated display is far from representative of the nation’s broader agricultural landscape.

In reality, Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector is struggling. The collapse of commercial farming, which began with the chaotic land reforms in the early 2000s, has left the country with a severe shortage of food and agricultural productivity. The showcased farm, heavily subsidised and supported by the state, is a rare exception in a country where most farms are languishing under poor management, lack of inputs, and inadequate infrastructure. The farm in question is not just any farm it is a personal project of the president, heavily funded and meticulously maintained to serve as a propaganda tool. While this farm may indeed be productive, it operates under conditions that are far removed from those of the average Zimbabwean farmer. With access to the best resources, top-quality inputs, and government-backed support, it is hardly surprising that this farm is flourishing.

The success of one farm, particularly one owned by the head of state, does not equate to the revival of an entire sector. The president’s farm is a bubble, an insulated environment that bears little resemblance to the realities faced by most farmers in Zimbabwe. For the majority, farming remains a daily struggle against poor soils, erratic rainfall, and a lack of financial support.The decision to showcase this farm to SADC leaders raises serious concerns about the transparency and honesty of Zimbabwe’s government.

By presenting this farm as a symbol of national success, the president is not only misleading his regional counterparts but also undermining the credibility of Zimbabwe’s agricultural recovery.SADC leaders left Zimbabwe with the impression that the country is on the brink of an agricultural boom, but the truth is far more sobering. The majority of Zimbabwe’s farmers continue to face severe challenges, from land degradation to the impact of climate change, and the sector is far from the vibrant and thriving industry that the president’s farm suggests.

If SADC leaders had been shown the true state of agriculture in Zimbabwe, they would have witnessed a very different scene. Across the country, smallholder farmers are struggling to make ends meet, often without access to the necessary tools, seeds, and fertilisers to ensure a good harvest. Many farms are underutilised or lie fallow, while others are barely productive enough to sustain the families that depend on them.

The government’s focus on presenting a false image of success does little to address these underlying issues. Instead of investing in genuine agricultural development that benefits all farmers, resources are being funnelled into maintaining a facade that serves the ruling elite's interests.

The visit by SADC leaders to Zimbabwe should serve as a wake-up call to the region. Rather than being swayed by carefully staged displays, there is a need for a more honest and transparent assessment of the situation on the ground. Only by confronting the true challenges facing Zimbabwe’s agriculture can the region hope to support real, sustainable development. Zimbabwe’s leaders may have succeeded in pulling the wool over the eyes of their regional counterparts this time, but the long-term consequences of such deception are dire. The future of Zimbabwe’s agriculture depends not on the success of one highly privileged farm but on the collective progress of all its farmers. It’s time for SADC to demand the truth and work together towards a genuine agricultural recovery that benefits the entire nation.

About the author 
Newton Tapiwa Mpofu is a Political Activist based in the UK.

Unlawful Arrests of Activists in Zimbabwe: A Brazen Assault on Human Rights by the Mnangagwa Regime – by Sakhile Ncube

14^th August, 2024

Zimbabwe has witnessed an alarming escalation in the unlawful arrests of citizens who criticise the way the country is being run. Over 100 innocent citizens, mainly members of opposition and human rights activists have been arrested, abducted, tortured and imprisoned in the past few months. These arrests and abductions have been at the behest of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and coordinated by state agencies and the ruling ZANU-PF functionaries.

Most of the arrests and abductions were related to lawful gatherings and based on fabricated charges to silence dissent. The Mnangagwa-led government has intensified its crackdown, targeting anyone who dares to challenge its authority or calls for change.         

The latest wave of repression began roughly two months ago, but it is part of a broader pattern of authoritarianism that has characterised the Mnangagwa regime since its inception. This period has seen an intensification of efforts to quash opposition in the lead-up to the 2024 SADC Summit, which Zimbabwe is set to host on August 17.

The recent arrests and abductions of activists include “ the Avondale 78”, Namatai Kwekweza, Samuel Gwenzi, Robson Chere, and Vusumuzi Moyo. Among those detained are a mother with her 1-year-old baby and another mother whose son died whilst she was in remand prison and was denied bail to go mourn and bury her child. These are heart-wrenching illustrations of the regime’s complete disregard for basic human decency and international law.

However, this pattern of political violence and repression is not new. The abduction and arrests of prominent figures like Gandhi Mudzingwa, Kisimusi Dhlamini, Andrison Manyere, and Jestina Mukoko—a well-known Zimbabwean human rights activist and director of the Zimbabwe Peace Project—marked some of the earlier signs of ZANU-PF led government’s ruthlessness. Jestina Mukoko, who is also a journalist and former newsreader with the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, was a notable victim of this repression.

Another deeply troubling incident occurred on March 9, 2015, when Itai Dzamara, a prominent activist and journalist, was abducted in Harare. His disappearance garnered significant international attention and concern, shining a spotlight on the severe issues of repression in Zimbabwe. Dzamara’s case, along with many others, underscores the persistent and escalating nature of political violence under the ZANU-PF regime, which has continued to grow more brazen in its tactics.

The deployment of the army and police ahead of the 2024 SADC Summit further reflects an atmosphere of fear and repression in the country.  These recent events are part of a broader campaign to intimidate the population and stifle peaceful protest or opposition. The unjust detention of activists, journalists, and even innocent bystanders under false pretences is a direct violation of Zimbabwean citizens’ constitutional rights, particularly Section 58, which guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, and peaceful protest.

The ZANU-PF regime, under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa, bears full responsibility for these egregious violations of human rights. Since coming to power, Mnangagwa has presided over a government that systematically undermines democratic principles and has turned the state apparatus into a tool for repression. The regime’s actions are not only unconstitutional but also constitute crimes under international law, as they involve the illegal detention, torture, and harassment of innocent citizens.

These arrests and abuses are taking place across Zimbabwe, affecting urban centres like Harare and Bulawayo, as well as rural areas where activists have been organising against the government. The regime’s reach is extensive, and its crackdown has permeated every corner of the country, leaving no safe space for those who seek to express dissent or advocate for change.

The root cause of this crackdown lies in the ZANU-PF regime’s desperation to maintain its grip on power amidst growing public dissatisfaction and calls for political reform. The Mnangagwa administration is acutely aware of the increasing discontent among Zimbabweans, who have been subjected to years of economic mismanagement, corruption, and political repression. The unlawful arrests are a clear attempt to silence these voices and prevent the mobilisation of any movement that could threaten the regime’s hold on power. Through increasingly autocratic measures and strategic placements of loyalists in key positions, Emmerson Mnangagwa appears determined to consolidate power and extend his rule in Zimbabwe well beyond 2030, seeking to entrench his regime’s influence for decades to come.

Unfortunately, the response from regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has been disappointingly muted. Despite Zimbabwe’s gross human rights violations, the SADC committee has largely turned a blind eye to the suffering of Zimbabwean citizens, opting instead to maintain a stance of non-interference This inaction has emboldened the Mnangagwa regime to continue its oppressive tactics with impunity.

The international community, particularly human rights organisations and foreign governments must take a stronger stance against the Zimbabwean government’s blatant disregard for the rule of law. The failure to hold Mnangagwa and his regime accountable not only undermines the credibility of regional and international bodies but also allows the continued suffering of Zimbabwe’s population.

In recent years, Zimbabwe has seen an exodus of citizens fleeing the country to escape the abductions, abuse, and torture that have become commonplace under the ZANU-PF regime. The deterioration of public services, such as hospitals, clinics, and schools, starkly contrasts with the luxurious lifestyles of government officials, who frequently seek medical treatment abroad at the expense of the suffering masses back home.

This ongoing crisis demands urgent attention and action. The people of Zimbabwe deserve to live in a country where their rights are respected and their voices are heard. The international community must no longer stand idly by as the Mnangagwa regime continues to trample on the fundamental freedoms of its citizens.

#ZanuPFMustGo 
#FreeAllPoliticalActivists 
#StopViolationOfHumanRights

About the author
Sakhile Ncube is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a Committee Member in the Executive Committee of the North Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. She can be contacted by email at jsakhile@yahoo.com

 

Honouring Heroes Amidst Unfinished Struggle: A Call for True Liberation in Zimbabwe – by Valentine Monalisa Mudonhi

11th August 2024

Heroes Day in Zimbabwe is observed annually on the second Monday of August. This year, it’s being held on Monday, the 12th of August 2024. It is a significant holiday honouring the sacrifices and contributions of those who fought for the country’s liberation from colonial rule. The day commemorates the heroes and heroines of the Second Chimurenga, the liberation war against colonialism in Zimbabwe. 

The day is marked by official speeches, ceremonies, and events to honour the sacrifices made during the fight for our independence. I join the nation in commemorating Heroes Day as we reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought on our behalf. However, celebrating Heroes Day has been overshadowed by Zimbabwe's dire human rights and governance state.

The State-sponsored political persecution of citizens, arbitrary arrests, torture, abductions, enforced disappearances, murders, beatings, and other human rights violations perpetuated by ZANU PF under Mnangagwa's leadership is not what the heroes died for. While the day is intended to honour those who fought for freedom and justice, the ZANU PF government under Mnangagwa’s leadership has frequently engaged in practices that undermine these principles.

As of now, on the 12th of August 2024, here are some victims of the repression and torture:

- Namatai Kwekweza ( a female human rights activist, feminist, and constitutionalism advocate), together with Robert Chere (Secretary General of Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe – ARTUZ), Samuel Gwenzi (Councillor – City of Harare) and Vusumuzi Moyo (Artist, Sound Engineer and activist), were dragged from a plane and abducted at Harare International Airport on 31st July 2024. They were tortured for more than eight hours.

- Seventy-eight political activists, including CCC interim party leader Jameson Timba and a mother with a one-year-old child, were arrested whilst holding a meeting at Jameson Timba’s house in Avondale, Harare on 16th June 2024. Including the one-year-old child, they are still in prison for 57 days as of today, having been denied bail a couple of times.

The full list of the recent cases of persecution can be found here.

These people are suffering persecution, arbitrary arrest, and torture.

ZANU PF, under Mnangagwa, is using state agencies and institutions to target opposition leaders, activists, and critics. This includes politically motivated arrests, harassment, and violence. The State and ZANU PF have cracked down on public demonstrations and protests against rigged elections, corruption, bad governance, economic hardships and corruption. These have been met with heavy-handed responses from security forces, including the use of live ammunition, teargas, and mass arrests.

The contradiction between the ideals celebrated on Heroes Day, and Zimbabwe's current state of governance is stark. While the day is meant to honour those who fought for the country’s freedom, the ongoing persecution of citizens and suppression of fundamental rights suggest that the struggle for true liberation is not yet complete. 

Consequently, there is an enduring air of apprehension and tension amongst the Zimbabwean populace, which has led to growing disillusionment among many Zimbabweans who feel that ZANU PF is betraying the legacy of the liberation struggle.

Happy Heroes Day, Zimbabwe, and may the future bring true liberation that so many have sacrificed for.

#FreeZimbabwe  

#StopUnjustArrests  

#StopTorture  

#StopHumanRightsViolations

About the author

Valentine Monalisa Mudonhi is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Organising Secretary for the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. She can be contacted by email at valentinemudonhi@gmail.com OR valentine.mudonhi@rohr-zimbabwe.org

CATALOGUE OF ABDUCTIONS, ARRESTS & TORTURE IN ZIMBABWE SINCE AUGUST 2023

10th August 2024

CATALOGUE OF RECENT CASES OF ABDUCTIONS SINCE AUGUST 2023

1. On 27 August 2023, Councillor Nelson Mukwenha was abducted from his home at midnight and badly tortured and injected with an unknown substance.

2. On 2 September 2023, Councillor Womberaishe Nhende was abducted, badly tortured and injected with an unknown substance.

3. On 24 October 2023, MP Hon. James Chidhakwa was abducted, badly tortured and injected with an unknown substance.

4. On 1 November 2023, MP Hon. Takudzwa Ngadziore was abducted, tortured and injected with an unknown substance by armed men who were well-identified by names and occupation as state agents.

4. On 11 November 2023, activist pastor Tapfumanei Masaya was abducted, and on 12 November 2023, his brutally tortured body was found on the outskirts of Harare.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-67419968

The modus operandi of the men identified in Hon. Ngadziore’s abduction is identical to the other abductions conducted by unidentified assailants.

CATALOGUE OF RECENT NOTABLE CASES OF ARRESTS OF ACTIVISTS

1.     Job Sikhala spent 595 days in pre-trial detention (June 2022 to 30 January 2024)

2.     Jacob Ngarivhume spent 8 months in prison (April – 12 December 2023)

CATALOGUE OF RECENT NOTABLE CASES OF ARRESTS OF ACTIVISTS IN THE LATEST CRACKDOWN, AHEAD OF THE SADC’S 44^TH ORDINARY SUMMIT OF THE HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT SCHEDULED FOR 17^TH AUGUST 2024, AS OF 07/08/2024

In the latest crackdown, ahead of the SADC’s 44^th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government scheduled for 17^th August 2024, as of 07/08/2024, approximately 160 people have been arrested and tortured, including opposition political party members, activists and human rights defenders.

The Avondale 78	including CCC interim party leader Jameson Timba	Avondale - Harare	16/06/2024
5 Members	The National Democratic Working Group	Kuwadzana - Harare	29/06/2024
5 Members	The Community Voices Zimbabwe media organisation	Gokwe	03/07/2024
44 ZINASU student activists	Including Emmanuel Sitima at their annual conference	Belvedere - Harare	24/07/2024
Namatai Kwekweza	human rights activist, feminist, and constitutionalism advocate	Robert Mugabe International Airport	31/07/2024
Samuel Gwenzi	Councillor – City of Harare	Robert Mugabe International Airport	31/07/2024
Vusumuzi Moyo	Artist, Sound Engineer and activist	Robert Mugabe International Airport	31/07/2024
Robert Chere	Secretary General of Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe - ARTUZ	Robert Mugabe International Airport.	31/07/2024
Bruce Moyo	Councillor – Bulawayo City	Bulawayo	01/08/2024
Emmanuel Sitima	President of the Zimbabwe National Students Union - ZINASU	Robert Mugabe International Airport.	02/08/2024
Kelvin Gonde and 11 other activists	Transform Zimbabwe activists	Mutare	02/08/2024
Bishop Kevin Nyamakanga	The Zimbabwe Intercessors Movement.	Harare	02/08/2024
Jacob Ngarivhume	Transform Zimbabwe leader	Mutare	02/08/2024
John Houghton and 12 other activists	MP for Kariba (CCC)	Kariba	02/08/2024
Brian Nyoni	CCC activist	Hwange	03/08/2024
Tineyi Munetsi	CCC activist	Hwange	03/08/2024

We also note with concern the deployment of army tanks and personnel in Chitungwiza and some parts of Harare in the week commencing 5th August 2024.

Inserted by Information & Publicity Department