NOT SURPRISING THAT THE GOVERNOR OF THE RESERVE BANK OF ZIMBABWE PLEADS FOR HELP

*NOT SURPRISING THAT THE GOVERNOR OF THE RESERVE BANK OF ZIMBABWE PLEADS FOR HELP.*

The Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe - RBZ, John Mushayavanhu, is urging every Zimbabwean to support the newly introduced currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), to make it work. This is after the ZiG has already lost a considerable value in just the three weeks it has been in use, albeit only in electronic form.

The question is, why has the governor suddenly turned his back on their international advisors, the World Bank? If the proposed policy has failed, why won't they call their consultants back and tell them, rather than throw them under the bus?

A lot of mistrust, internal discord and disillusionment has unfortunately become the order of the day. As much as we want Zimbabwe's economy to function, such monetary policy blunders don't come cheap.

At least they have realised that fighting money changers in the streets is not the solution to the lack of confidence in the ZiG. Rather, the governor needs to find ways of convincing consumers, businesses, local and foreign investors to use the ZiG in domestic transactions. He also needs to engage those in the diaspora in the same vein. 

These governors must go back in time and study what made the original Zimbabwean dollar work as the sole currency from 1980 to 2000 and must study the outstanding policies of other governors like James Kombo Moyana and Dr Leonard Tsuma. Instead of trusting these disruptive policies being reshuffled and recycled repeatedly post 2002.

Revival of the local industry as a start would allow the country to start producing, rather than surviving on imports only. Businesses will obviously shun the local currency and opt for forex so that they can import basic products.

The Central Bank also needs independence from ZANU PF. I strongly believe these governors are very well-educated and wise enough to know about what needs to be done to fix the currency and monetary policy issues. Rather, they are being constrained by the selfish ambitions of greedy politicians. I feel sorry for Governor John Mushayavanhu because he is in a hot seat. He knows the truth but can't tell his boss.

#wearetired

#EnoughIsEnough

#weneednewleaders

#structuredfraud

#zanupfmustgo

*About the author*

_Tendai Christian Mapfumo is a UK based Zimbabwean human rights activist. He is in the South Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. He can be contacted by emailing christendai52@gmail.com

THE MISCHIEVOUS ZANU PF - BY Greatman Makipa

 I8 April 2024

As if installing necrophobia in its peasantry was not enough, ZANU-PF, in line with its DNA, has resorted to enforced disappearance, abductions, murder, lawfare and systematic persecution of Zimbabwean citizens as a way of hanging on to power.

Zimbabweans, like pregnant women who have only one option to give birth, have been forced to flee their motherland in their millions, mostly to the xenophobic South Africa, which has left many of them dead or living a cat-and-mouse existence in their stepfather's country.

Millions of Zimbabweans have fled to the diaspora due to the repressive way ZANU-PF is running the country.

Some are pursued beyond the borders, hounded and persecuted in foreign lands by the notorious regime agents, especially in neighbouring South Africa, where the ANC-led government is sympathetic to the regime in Harare. 

As a result, most are so hopeless and fearful that they now choose to remain silent despite their displeasure in the way Zimbabwe is being run. 

The question uppermost in people's minds is, if big names like Job Sikhala, Promise Mkwananzi and Ngadziore can be abducted during daylight, how many of the lesser-knowns are being subjected to similar or much worse persecution?

This has led to many preferring silence over the risk of death at the hands of State operatives.

This then leaves me with the question, is Zimbabwe Independent Yet?

#NOTYETUHURU@44

Author:  Greatman Makipa is a human rights activist in our North branch of  Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter. 

ZIMBABWE NOT INDEPENDENT – By Nina Mutepfa

18th April 2024

Zimbabwe continues to struggle with its lack of true independence.

The 44 years under ZANU-PF rule are marked by pervasive corruption that undermines good governance and economic stability. The country's leadership is marred by allegations of embezzlement and mismanagement, exacerbating the already dire situation. The impact of this corruption is felt on a societal level, with citizens facing limited access to basic services and a deteriorating quality of life.

Amidst these challenges, the people of Zimbabwe are suffering, with a significant portion of the population facing hardships that have led to a high mortality rate. The combination of political instability, economic mismanagement, and a lack of accountability has created a cycle of despair for the population, highlighting the urgent need for reforms and sustainable solutions to address these pressing issues.

The grave violations of human rights under the ED Mnangagwa government and ruling party ZANU-PF include murders, arbitrary arrests, abductions, enforced disappearances as well as imprisonment of activists and opposition leaders.

These actions reflect a troubling trend of suppressing dissent and silencing voices of opposition. Emmerson Mnangagwa's government's crackdown on civil liberties and political freedoms and the accompanying system of patronage raise concerns about the lack of democracy and the rule of law in Zimbabwe. The systematic targeting of activists and political opposition leaders undermines the people's fundamental rights and freedoms, perpetuating a climate of fear and intimidation.

Attention and action are needed to hold Ed Mnangagwa’s government and ruling party, ZANU-PF, accountable for these violations and to ensure the protection of human rights in Zimbabwe.

#ZIMBABWENOTINDEPENDENT

#ZANUPFMUSTFALL

#NORIGHTSINZIMBABWE

#ROHRZIMBABWE     

About the author
Nina Mutepfa 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 ninamutepfa@gmail.com

Zimbabwe's Elusive Independence: A Cry from Ordinary Citizens - by Sakhile Ncube

18th April 2024

As Zimbabwe commemorates yet another Independence Day today, April 18th, the reality for many ordinary Zimbabweans paints a stark contrast to the celebratory narrative. For the past 44 years, since 1980, under the reign of the Zanu PF regime, the dream of true freedom and independence has remained just that – a dream.

Instead of progress and prosperity, what we've witnessed is a descent into chaos orchestrated by a selfish and brutal government and its cronies. Ordinary Zimbabweans who have exercised their right to vote find nothing to celebrate but a laundry list of grievances.

The promise of freedom has been tarnished by rampant corruption, oppression, and violence. Journalists are abducted, citizens are killed in broad daylight, some disappear, and those who dare to speak out for freedom are silenced. The dream of a liberated Zimbabwe has morphed into a nightmare of fear and suffering.

Zanu PF's legacy is one of failure and betrayal. Despite numerous elections, the plight of the people remains unchanged. Different currencies come and go like the wind, but the suffering and brutality persist. Many Zimbabweans have been forced into exile, enduring hardship in foreign lands, while those left behind continue to struggle under the weight of broken promises and unfulfilled aspirations.

As we reflect on Zimbabwe's Independence Day today, let us not forget the voices of ordinary citizens who are wallowing in abject poverty and crying out for true freedom and justice. #ZimbabweIsNotIndependent is not just a hashtag; it's a rallying cry for change and for a Zimbabwe where every citizen can truly experience the independence they deserve.

#ZimbabweanLivesMatter

#ZimbabweIsNotIndependent

About the author
Sakhile Ncube 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 jsakhile@yahoo.com

WHOSE INDEPENDENCE? – By Renee Brenda Langa

18th April 2024

I am baffled by the ZANU-PF-led hype about Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations.

I do not understand why the majority of Zimbabweans could ever lay a claim to independence when it is so obvious that the so-called independence only benefits the few ZANU-PF political elite and cronies.

Due to election rigging, accompanied by murders, enforced disappearances, voter intimidation and persecution, ZANU-PF has made the principle of universal suffrage (one man, one vote) a joke. Elections in Zimbabwe are just a façade —a pretence that there is democracy in Zimbabwe when, in reality, the opposite is true.

In other words, there does not seem to be any way of changing government other than a popular uprising or waging another war of liberation. This is scary, but after 44 years of oppression, there will come a time when citizens are forced to take that route.

When we talk of gaining independence, we gained it from a white minority, and it was taken from us by a black minority whose levels of repression are even worse than that of their white predecessors.

The majority of us are not independent.

We are not free either.

We are under siege from a government led by our kindred.

We have no reason to celebrate the 18th of April as the day we gained our independence because we are yet to regain it from the small group of bloodthirsty ZANU-PF dictators in Harare.

Cry our beloved country.

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

ZIMBABWE’S INDEPENDENCE IS A MIRAGE – by Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu

18th April, 2024

The celebration of independence in Zimbabwe is complicated by State-sponsored human rights violations, which include murders, enforced disappearances, torture and general persecution of citizens. This is made worse by the high levels of corruption whereby ZANU-PF leaders and their connections are siphoning the resources for self-gain whilst the masses are suffering.

If it weren’t for these, I would be celebrating.

We waged a war of liberation from colonial rule with the hope that we could have a fair and just society where everyone would be free to participate in the country's affairs, have equal access to resources, and be protected by the law. We also hoped that everyone would be able to vote in elections and choose political leaders without fear of reprisals from the State or ruling party.

Sadly, the situation obtaining is such that it seems the war of liberation was in vain.

All we achieved was the substitution of black oppressors for white oppressors.

I am not going to celebrate this mirage of independence, and I hope one day we will be truly independent,

About the author

Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu 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 michellempofu11@gmal.com

NOT CELEBRATING “INDEPENDENCE” IN THE FACE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE - by South Branch of UK Chapter

 18th April 2024

The Zimbabwean political arena is decorated with violence from the ruling party, ZANU PF, directed against any opposition. ZANU PF feels threatened by the much-loved Nelson Chamisa and knows they don't stand any chance of winning in any free and fair election. As a result, they resort to violence, beating up, torturing and hounding anyone who stands up to support the people's choice, Chamisa.

Zimbabwe has seen opposition party members, activists and any vocal members of society beaten up and left for dead, abducted and tortured, thrown into prison, and some even killed only because they expressed their views about the oppressive ruling regime.

Zimbabweans are resilient and will not be silenced.

We continue fighting, and we will certainly see "true independence" in the near future.

By South Branch of the UK Chapter of ROHR Zimbabwe

WHAT INDEPENDENCE WHEN THERE IS NO DEMOCRACY – By Chipo Komboni

18th April 2024

In Zimbabwe, democracy is non-existent. It's just an imagination like the new Zimbabwean currency, the so-called ZIG, which Vene are saying is equivalent to 1 US dollar to 13 ZIG when it is just another way of creating an opportunity for ZANU-PF leadership to loot.

Until there is democracy in Zimbabwe, I am not celebrating “Independence”.

 

About the author

Chipo Komboni 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 chipokomboni1984@gmal.com

Why Zimbabwe is still not independent? - By: Xoliso Sithole

 17 April 2024

Why Zimbabwe is still not independent?

Zimbabwe gained independence from British colonial rule on April 18, 1980. The country's independence was achieved after a long struggle for liberation led by various political movements and figures, including Robert Mugabe and Joshua Nkomo.

After gaining independence, Zimbabwe faced various challenges, including political instability, economic difficulties, and social issues. In recent years, Zimbabwe has faced significant political and economic challenges, including allegations of election irregularities, human rights abuses, corruption, and a struggling economy.

In just about twenty years, Zimbabwe has gone from being a wealthy nation to a failed state. A prime example of what happens when a party abuses its power and continues to rule the country.

Under President Emmerson Mnangagwa leadership there has been a disregard for human rights, a breakdown of the rule of law, social and economic chaos. The voices of the Zimbabwean citizens are supressed by the government.

#ZimbabweIsNotIndependent

Author:  Xoliso Sithole is a human rights activist in our North branch of  Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter. 

ROHR ZIMBABWE STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF NINE VILLAGERS FOR BOOING AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA AT WATSOMBA BUSINESS CENTRE

 14^th April 2024

We strongly condemn the arrest of 9 villagers at Watsomba business centre in Manicaland for booing Auxillia Mnangagwa on Wednesday, 10th April 2024. The Mnangagwas and any politician, for that matter, are not beyond reproach.

According to section 63 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Article 19 of the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights instruments, people have the right to freedom of expression.

The nine, Nester Chatiwana, Panashe Machekanzondo, Winnet Sithole, Maria Choto, Esnath Choto, Ellen Rujuwa, Faith Chidhakwa, Patience Matasva and Joyce Mashingaidza are victims of a paranoid and rabid regime which will stop at nothing to hold on to power at the expense of the welfare of citizens.

We urge the government of Zimbabwe to stop the persecution of citizens for simply expressing themselves, to open up the democratic space and to focus on creating an environment that promotes the welfare of citizens.

End

NOTICE–ROHR ZIMBABWE MIDLANDS BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Meeting – Saturday, 20 April 2024

Event: - ROHR ZIMBABWE MIDLANDS BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER physical Meeting

Date: - Saturday, 20 April 2024
Time: - 13:00hrs - 16:00hrs GMT / London time

Venue: - Leicester Secular Hall, 75 Humberstone Gate, Leicester, LE1 1WB (Harriet Law Room)

 Agenda: - To follow

***All members of ROHR Zimbabwe in the UK and Europe are welcome to attend*** 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Tafadzwa Chivaura 07341613332
Nina Mutepfa 07930879480
Lilian Nleya 07853155145
Marian Mangani 07380896768
Grace Makoni 07399414862
Weston Mupfururirwa 07768818230
Shamiso Bhobho 07518786376
Kimberly Ndlovu 07307502626
Renee Langa 07789455406

NOTICE–ROHR ZIMBABWE SOUTH BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting – Saturday 6th April 2024

Event: - ROHR ZIMBABWE SOUTH BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting
Date: - Saturday 6th April 2024
Time: - 14:00 hrs GMT / London time

Venue: - Zoom

Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7538534375?pwd=RnREUTI0SmN0T3ZwQ1J6UTdRa3JPUT09&omn=86984518334

Meeting ID: 753 853 4375
Passcode: 261316 

Agenda: - To follow

***All members of ROHR Zimbabwe in the UK and Europe are welcome to attend*** 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Fungayi Mukosera 07749036031
Shalom Gunda 07532727854
Patience Sanganza 07425143157
Praisego Moyo 07956080227
Xolisani Masuku 07435311437
Billie Nedie 07564999039
Paradzai Mapfumo 07429654465

The Plight of Mbare Magaba Block 10: A Tale of Neglect, Corruption, and Political Priorities BY Renee Brenda Langa

14 March 2024

In the heart of Zimbabwe, the residents of Mbare Magaba block 10 endure unimaginable living conditions. Overcrowded flats, unsanitary environments, and a lack of basic services paint a grim picture of neglect and despair. Despite repeated appeals to local authorities, little has been done to alleviate their suffering.

Adding insult to injury, individuals like Wicknell Chivayo flaunt their wealth while ordinary citizens struggle to make ends meet. Chivayo's lavish spending, coupled with allegations of corruption and ties to politicians, epitomizes the stark inequality that plagues Zimbabwean society.

Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa's recent gesture of giving vehicles to traditional chiefs raises eyebrows. While traditional leaders play an important role in communities, the timing of this gesture amidst the dire situation in Mbare Magaba block 10 raises questions about political priorities.

It's clear that political dynamics are at play in the crisis facing Mbare Magaba block 10. Corruption, mismanagement, and political favouritism have contributed to the suffering of its residents. The government's failure to prioritize the well-being of its citizens is evident, as basic services remain elusive for those in need.

As concerned citizens, we must demand accountability and transparency from our leaders. The plight of Mbare Magaba block 10 can not be ignored any longer. It's time for action to address the root causes of poverty and inequality in Zimbabwe.

Join us in raising awareness and advocating for change. Together, we can hold our leaders accountable and ensure that all citizens have access to dignified living conditions. The time for political games is over. It's time to put the needs of the people first.

Author: Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist in our Midlands branch of  Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter. She is based in the United Kingdom and can be contacted by in boxing her on her social media handles X - @langa_renee  Instagram - @langarene

NOTICE–ROHR ZIMBABWE MIDLANDS BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Meeting – Saturday, 16 March 2024

Event: - ROHR ZIMBABWE MIDLANDS BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER physical Meeting
Date: - Saturday, 16 March 2024
Time: - 13:00hrs - 15:00hrs GMT / London time
Venue: - Leicester Secular Hall, 75 Humberstone Gate, Leicester, LE1 1WB (Harriet Law Room)

Agenda: - To follow

***All members of ROHR Zimbabwe in the UK and Europe are welcome to attend** 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Tafadzwa Chivaura 07341613332
Marian Mangani 07380896768
Grace Makoni 07399414862
Weston Mupfururirwa 07768818230
Shamiso Bhobho 07518786376
Kimberly Ndlovu 07307502626

A Remorseful Tribute to Moreblessing Ali

02 March 2024

The tragic loss of Moreblessing Ali left a deep void in the hearts of many. As news of her abduction and brutal murder shook the nation, our collective grief and outrage reverberated across Zimbabwe.

Moreblessing, a dedicated activist, was not just a name in the headlines; she was a beloved daughter, sister, and mother. Her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and her courage in the face of adversity inspired us all.

As we remember her untimely passing, we are reminded of the painful truth that justice can not undo the irreparable harm inflicted upon her and her family. No words can fully convey the anguish they must endure, nor can any apology erase the anguish caused by such a senseless act of violence.

To Moreblessing's family and loved ones, we offer our deepest condolences and heartfelt apologies. We acknowledge the profound pain you are experiencing, and we stand with you in solidarity as you navigate this unimaginable loss.

May Moreblessing's memory be a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a future where such atrocities are no longer tolerated. Let us honor her legacy by advocating for justice, peace, and equality, ensuring that her spirit lives on in our collective pursuit of a better world.

In this moment of sorrow, let us also reaffirm our commitment to upholding the dignity and sanctity of every human life. May we never forget Moreblessing Ali, and may her soul rest in eternal peace.

Author: Renee Langa is a human rights activist in our Midlands branch of  Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter. She is based in the United Kingdom and can be contacted by in boxing her on her social media handles X - @langa_renee  Instagram - @langarene

The Recent Demolition and Suspension of the demolition of houses built on land sold to citizens by traditional leaders in Zimbabwe

 02 March 2024

The recent decision by the government of Zimbabwe to suspend the demolition of houses built on land sold to citizens by traditional leaders underscores a broader pattern of negligence and mismanagement in governance, particularly regarding land issues. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of challenges related to illegal land settlements, corruption, and violations of citizens' rights.

The disparity in land pricing and access, as well as allegations of multiple farm ownership among elite political leaders, point to systemic failures in ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. This mismanagement perpetuates socio-economic inequalities and erodes public trust in the government's ability to uphold fairness and integrity in governance.

However, the suspension of demolitions offers little solace to those who have already been affected by the government's actions. Citizens whose houses have been demolished now find themselves desperate and homeless, with nowhere to turn to for assistance. The government's failure to provide adequate support or compensation to those affected further exacerbates their plight, leaving them without the means to rebuild their lives.

The lack of financial assistance from the government to those affected highlights its inability or unwillingness to fulfill its obligations to its citizens, particularly in times of crisis. I believe that addressing these challenges requires more than just suspending demolitions; it demands comprehensive reforms to strengthen transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity while prioritizing the needs and rights of all citizens. 

Furthermore, the allegations of nepotism against President Emmerson Mnangagwa, highlighted by the appointment of his son and nephew to key government positions, underscore concerns about the concentration of power within the president's family circle and the erosion of meritocracy in decision-making processes.

The government must take urgent and decisive action to provide support and assistance to those affected, as well as to rectify past injustices and ensure inclusive and equitable development for all Zimbabweans.

Author: Renee Langa is a human rights activist in our Midlands branch of  Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter. She is based in the United Kingdom and can be contacted by in boxing her on her social media handles X - @langa_renee  Instagram - @langarene

NOTICE: – ROHR ZIMBABWE SCOTLAND BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting – Tuesday 27th February 2024

Event: - ROHR ZIMBABWE SCOTLAND BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting
Date: - Tuesday 27th February 2024
Time: - 19:00 hrs GMT / London time

Venue: - Zoom

Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7538534375?pwd=RnREUTI0SmN0T3ZwQ1J6UTdRa3JPUT09&omn=83781854962

Meeting ID: 753 853 4375
Passcode: 261316

Agenda: - To follow

***All members of ROHR Zimbabwe in the UK and Europe are welcome to attend*** 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Alvina Chibhamu 07446224052
Vongayi Mufara 07309990505
Edineth Mtengwa 07474057767

NOTICE–ROHR ZIMBABWE NORTH BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting – Saturday 10th February 2024

Event: - ROHR ZIMBABWE NORTH BRANCH of the UK CHAPTER Zoom Meeting
Date: - Saturday 10th February 2024
Time: - 14:00 hrs GMT / London time

Venue: - Zoom

Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7538534375?pwd=RnREUTI0SmN0T3ZwQ1J6UTdRa3JPUT09&omn=83107934961

Meeting ID: 753 853 4375
Passcode: 261316

Agenda: - To follow

***All members of ROHR Zimbabwe in the UK and Europe are welcome to attend** 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 

Vengai Mutsawu 07914257903
Nontokozo Malaba Ncube 07538229164
Greatman Makipa 07835878603
Basil Kamombe 07565726052
Ronald Mutumbi 07393481946
Mavis Harrison 07725002508
Xoliso Sithole 07455911728

THE ROLE OF THE DIASPORA IN DEFENDING THE DEMOCRATIC SPACE IN ZIMBABWE X – SPACE 24.01.2024

Wednesday 24^th January 2024

Today, Wednesday, 24th January 2024, Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe participated in a groundbreaking X-Space dealing with the topic “The Role of The Diaspora IN DEFENDING THE DEMOCRATIC SPACE IN ZIMBABWE hosted by Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition.

Among the panellists were Panyika Karimanzira (ROHR Zimbabwe spokesperson), Chief Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni, Tendai Ruben Mbofana and Thomas Mutangiri.

ROHR Zimbabwe members who attended include Vongayi Mufara (ROHR Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter Chairperson), Marian Mangani (ROHR UK Chapter Midlands Branch Fundraier), Basil Kamombe (ROHR UK Chapter Deputy Information & Publicity Secretary), Xoliso Sithole (ROHR UK Chapter North Branch Fundraier), Vengai Mutsawu (ROHR UK Chapter North Branch Chairperson and UK Chapter Fundraier), Nina Mutepfa (ROHR UK Chapter Midlands Branch Secretary), Lilian Nleya (ROHR Advocacy & Mentorship Committee member), Ronald Mutumbi (ROHR UK Chapter North Branch Organising Secretary), Phylis Melody Magejo and Shepherd Mutemaringa.

The meeting recognised the need for the Zimbabwean diaspora to take the leading role in challenging the status quo considering the fact that the hands of the activists on the ground are now tied by the shrinkage of the democratic space through the enactment of such laws as 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), which replaced POSA and the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021 all of which collectively aim to shrink the democratic space and control the activities of nongovernmental organisations and individuals.

The following possible action points were put on the table for possible consideration;-

·         The diaspora to get more organised and come up with workable collaborative structures.

·         The diaspora to mobilise resources to support the activities on the ground, including community education on human rights, democracy, voting etc..

·         The diaspora to take a more prominent role in coordinating the activities on the ground.

·         The diaspora to lobby host governments to take a stand on the human rights situation in Zimbabwe.

·         The diaspora to lobby regional and international bodies like the SADC, AU, UN, EU, Commonwealth to call the Zimbabwean government to order and to keep the Zimbabwe situation in the limelight.

·         The diaspora to demand the right to vote.

The meeting noted that the diaspora voting population exceeds 6 million which is way above the 4 million or so Zimbabwean based people who registered to vote in the August 2023 harmonised elections.

It also noted that diaspora remittances in 2023 (9.44 billion U.S. dollars as of Oct.31, 2023) were more than Foreign Direct Investment and around 16% of the total foreign currency inflow in.

Work on what was agreed will continue in the background and ROHR Zimbabwe will seek to engage other diaspora based organisations on the way forward.

Further meetings of this nature will be convened by Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition in collaboration with Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe, MyRight2Vote, Zimbabwe Human Rights Organisation (ZHRO) and other diaspora based Zimbabwean organisations.

Screenshots of the X-Space can be viewed here.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/rohr_zimbabwe__manchester/albums/72177720314288757

 

Report by:
Information & Publicity Department.

Call for immediate release of Job Sikhala

18^th January 2024

By Vengai Mutsawu

I write to express my deep concern and solidarity with Job Sikhala, who has been unjustly incarcerated in prison for over 18 months without trial or any known offence committed. Asking for justice for the murdered Moreblessing Ali is not a crime. Job Sikhala only demanded justice for Moreblessing. This prolonged detention without due process is a violation of fundamental human rights and an affront to the principles of justice that we hold dear.

Job Sikhala’s situation demands urgent attention and action. It is disheartening to witness the prolonged denial of his right to a fair trial and bail, a cornerstone of any just legal system. In a society that values the rule of law, it is imperative that we demand his immediate release and insist on a transparent and expeditious legal process.

It is our collective responsibility to stand against arbitrary detention and the erosion of individual rights. Job Sikhala’s case is a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding the principles that underpin a just and fair legal system. Let us unite in our call for justice, advocating for the release of Job Sikhala and the restoration of his rights.

I urge authorities to reevaluate this situation, ensure due process, and release Job Sikhala without further delay. Our shared commitment to human rights, justice, and the rule of law compels us to speak out against any infringement upon these principles.

“Justice for Job Sikhala Now!!!!”

#FreeJobSikhalaNow

#JusticeForAll

About the author
Vengai Mutsawu is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is the Chairperson of the North Branch and Fundraiser for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe, a not-for-profit organisation registered in 2007. Among other things, ROHR Zimbabwe aims to promote a culture of human rights through community mobilisation, capacity building, and active responses to human rights violations. It also advocates for peace, justice, freedom, accountability, and democratic reforms in the country. Vengai Mutsawu can be contacted by email at Vengai.mutsawu@rohr-zimbabwe.org or vengaimutsawu1@yahoo.com

Human Rights Abuses in Zimbabwe

17^th January 2024

By Ronald Mutumbi

Human rights abuses in Zimbabwe are a serious and ongoing problem that affects the lives and dignity of millions of people. According to various sources, including Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, ZimRights and ROHR Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwean government has been responsible for numerous violations of civil and political rights.

The State-sponsored human rights violations include murder, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, harassment, persecution and prosecution of opposition politicians, journalists, political and human rights activists, human rights defenders and critics of the ruling party of all kinds.

These are carried out by uniformed forces and unidentified assailants, suspected to be state security agents with impunity.

Peaceful protests are met with excessive, disproportionate, and lethal force, including the use of tear gas, batons, and live ammunition, resulting in injuries and deaths.

Restrictions on various human rights including rights to freedom of expression, association, and assembly are imposed through the enactment and selective application of repressive laws, such as the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill (Commonly referred to as “The Patriotic Act), the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (PVO), the Public Order and Security Act (POSA) and the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021  which collectively aim to shrink the democratic space and control the activities of nongovernmental organisations and individuals.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people, also face criminalisation, harassment, and violence because of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

The recent outbreak of cholera countrywide, just like the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years, has exposed the government’s failure to provide adequate health care, food, water, and sanitation to the population, especially the most vulnerable groups.

The pandemic was used as an excuse to impose lockdown measures that limited the people’s access to information, education, and livelihoods, to crack down on any criticism or protest as well as for corrupt activities by the political elite and their cronies with the “Drax scandal” being a case in point.

The human rights situation in Zimbabwe is alarming and requires urgent attention and action from the international community, the African Union, and the Southern African Development Community, as well as from the Zimbabwean authorities themselves. The government should respect and protect the human rights of all its citizens and ensure that those who commit or order human rights violations are held accountable and brought to justice. The government should also engage in dialogue and cooperation with civil society, the opposition, and the media and implement the necessary reforms to restore democracy, the rule of law, and human dignity in the country.

About the author
Ronald Mutumbi is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is the Organising Secretary for the North Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe, a not-for-profit organisation registered in 2007. Among other things, ROHR Zimbabwe aims to promote a culture of human rights through community mobilisation, capacity building, and active responses to human rights violations. It also advocates for peace, justice, freedom, accountability, and democratic reforms in the country. Ronald can be contacted by email at ronald.mutumbi@rohr-zimbabwe.org or  ronmutumbi@gmail.com  

NOTICE - UK CHAPTER (All members) Zoom Meeting – Saturday 20th January 2024 at 14:00 hrs.

Event: - UK CHAPTER  (All members) Zoom Meeting
Date: - Saturday 20^th January 2024
Time: - 14:00 hrs  (UK time)

Venue: - Zoom

Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7538534375?pwd=RnREUTI0SmN0T3ZwQ1J6UTdRa3JPUT09&omn=89248659130

Meeting ID: 753 853 4375
Passcode: 261316

Agenda: - To follow 

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