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