Vision 2030 - Mnangagwa’s Grand Lie to Keep Zimbabwe in Chains - by Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu

9^th March 2025

Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and his ZANU-PF government want Zimbabweans to believe in Vision 2030—a so-called master plan to turn the country into an upper-middle-income economy. But let’s not be fooled. This is nothing more than a carefully packaged lie designed to keep them in power while the nation sinks deeper into poverty, corruption, and repression.

Mnangagwa and his cronies in ZANU-PF have spent decades looting Zimbabwe’s wealth, rigging elections, and silencing anyone who dares to demand justice. They don’t care about Vision 2030. They care about staying in control, growing their offshore bank accounts, and crushing any opposition that threatens their grip on power. Until they are held accountable, Vision 2030 will never be anything more than a propaganda tool to distract the suffering masses.

ZANU-PF’s Corruption is Destroying Zimbabwe

Mnangagwa’s government is bleeding Zimbabwe dry. The country loses over $1.8 billion every year to corruption, yet schools and hospitals are collapsing. Roads are in ruins. Millions struggle to afford food. Meanwhile, ZANU-PF elites live in luxury, buying mansions in Dubai and South Africa while ordinary citizens are crushed by unemployment and hyperinflation.

Contracts for public infrastructure projects are handed out to Mnangagwa’s allies, with no accountability or transparency. The so-called mega deals he boasts about? They only benefit those at the top while Zimbabweans are left to suffer. His government does not work for the people—it works for a corrupt cartel that treats Zimbabwe like its personal piggy bank.

A Lawless Regime Built on Violence and Fear

Under Mnangagwa’s rule, Zimbabwe has become a lawless state where power, not justice, determines who is free and who is jailed.

·        Opposition figures are beaten, arrested, or even disappeared for speaking out.

·        Elections are rigged through intimidation, vote-buying, and suppression of independent observers.

·        The courts serve ZANU-PF, not the people, ensuring that Mnangagwa and his allies never face accountability.

·        Journalists and activists who expose corruption are harassed, jailed, or forced into exile.

ZANU-PF is not a government—it is a criminal organization that uses the state to brutalize its own people. How can Zimbabwe develop when its own leaders are the biggest enemies of progress?

The Economic Collapse Under Mnangagwa

Mnangagwa inherited a collapsed economy from Robert Mugabe, but instead of fixing it, he made it worse. His government prints money, causing inflation to skyrocket and wiping out people’s savings. Basic goods are priced in US dollars, but workers earn worthless Zimbabwean salaries.

He promised jobs. Instead, youth unemployment is at an all-time high, and thousands of Zimbabweans are fleeing to South Africa, Botswana, and the UK for survival. Vision 2030 is meaningless when the people of Zimbabwe are too hungry to think about the future.

Mnangagwa Will Never Fix Zimbabwe—The People Must Demand Change

For Zimbabwe to move forward, Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF must go. Their time is up. The people must rise and demand:

1.      An End to Corruption – Arrest and prosecute Mnangagwa’s corrupt allies and recover stolen wealth.

2.      Free and Fair Elections – Scrap the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and establish an independent electoral body.

3.      Justice for the Oppressed – Release political prisoners, end persecution of activists, and ensure an independent judiciary.

4.      Economic Reform – Restore property rights, attract real investment, and support local businesses instead of feeding ZANU-PF’s cartel.

 The Time for Lies is Over

Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF have failed Zimbabwe. They are parasites feeding off the suffering of the people. Vision 2030 is not a roadmap to prosperity—it is a smokescreen designed to buy them more time in power.

Zimbabweans must wake up. The future will not be handed to us—it must be taken. Until we demand real change, Vision 2030 will remain nothing more than Mnangagwa’s cruel joke, a deception to keep Zimbabweans hoping for a future that will never come under ZANU-PF rule.

About the author
Michelle Mpofu is a UK-based Zimbabwean human rights activist. She is the Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe and Treasurer for the North Branch of 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 

RESIST THE 2030 POWER GRAB - by Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu

By Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu 

9th February, 2025

In late 2024, Zimbabwe faced a profound constitutional crisis as President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa sought to extend his tenure beyond the constitutionally mandated two-term limit, aiming to remain in power until 2030. This move starkly contravenes the nation's constitution, which unequivocally restricts any individual to a maximum of two five-year terms as president. The populace had anticipated the conclusion of Mnangagwa's rule in 2028, placing their faith in constitutional governance. However, it appears that the current administration is intent on manipulating the law to serve its own avaricious ambitions.

Mnangagwa's political trajectory is deeply entwined with the malfeasance within ZANU-PF. Serving as a close advisor to Robert Mugabe, he held various influential positions, including roles in foreign affairs, trade and commerce, judiciary services, and the secret service. The latter was notoriously employed to suppress dissent, leading to widespread human rights abuses. From the 1980s to the present, political violence has been a grim constant, with countless individuals subjected to torture, disfigurement, and extrajudicial killings.

This pervasive climate of fear and repression has compelled hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans to flee their homeland, seeking refuge from persecution and potential death. For many, this marks the beginning of an interminable suffering, rendering the prospect of returning to the land they once cherished increasingly remote.

As a former regional board member of ZimRights in Bulawayo, I have tirelessly advocated for justice and an end to political violence and inhumane treatment of regime opponents. This activism has made me a target of the ZANU-PF government, extinguishing any hope I might have had of returning to Zimbabwe.

Beyond the political turmoil, the nation's public services have deteriorated precipitously under ZANU-PF's misrule. The healthcare system is virtually non-existent, a dire situation exacerbated by the cessation of life-saving medications previously supplied by USAID. Basic services such as electricity, water, and transportation have become increasingly unreliable, with conditions worsening daily. How much longer will this regime be permitted to decimate the remnants of Zimbabwe's infrastructure and social services?

The current administration stands accused of:

1. Distorting the constitution to benefit a select few and entrench a counter-revolutionary cabal.
2. Exploiting the national treasury for personal enrichment, indulging in extravagant spending and opulent lifestyles.
3. Neglecting the masses while enriching a minority at the majority's expense.
4. Allowing hospitals to operate without essential drugs, causing widespread suffering.
5. Failing to provide education for children due to pervasive poverty.
6. Illicitly transferring funds to hidden foreign accounts, leaving the majority in abject poverty.

It is imperative to address these egregious violations of constitutional rights and shield the nation from this corrupt and ruthless cabal. Leveraging Zimbabwe's 62 mineral resources holds the potential to transform the country into an upper-income nation.

NO TO THE ZANU-PF REGIME'S 2030 AGENDA

The proposed extension of President Mnangagwa's term not only subverts the constitution but also undermines the democratic aspirations of the Zimbabwean people. This blatant power grab must be resolutely opposed to preserve the nation's democratic integrity and ensure a prosperous future for all citizens.

About the author 

Nolanga Evangelista Ndlovu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is a member of The UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. She is also a member of CCC UK and a former Bulawayo regional board member of ZimRights. She can be contacted by email at evangenoe@gmail.com

Hope in the Face of Oppression in Zimbabwe - by Renee Brenda Langa

By Renee Brenda Langa

5th January 2025

“Usarega kunyengetera ndidzoke kumba.”

“Jongwe zvorokukuridza mudiwa muka. Ndoringe nzira ndoyambukira mhiri kwehova, tarira ndokunoenda vamwe, ndokunoenda vamwe. Hongu, kure kwegava usipo mutsvubvu. Usarega kunyengetera ndidzoke kumba.”

In my view, the song “Ndinouya” by Gwevedzi resonates deeply with the experiences of Zimbabweans enduring the oppressive realities of life under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ZANU-PF regime. The crow of the rooster, traditionally symbolising the start of a new day, becomes a call for awakening and hope amid hardship. The poignant line “Ndoringe nzira, ndoyambukira mhiri kwehova” evokes a deep longing and an unrelenting search for freedom—an echo of the struggles of those in detention, in exile, or simply striving for better prospects in their homeland.

These evocative lyrics encapsulate the emotional turmoil felt by many forced to flee Zimbabwe due to political instability, economic collapse, and systemic human rights abuses. They reflect the painful reality of activists and families awaiting justice and restoration in a fractured nation.

Under Mnangagwa’s leadership, the hope for progress that briefly followed Robert Mugabe’s rule has largely faded. The 2018 elections were marred by allegations of rigging and violence against opposition supporters, signalling a continuation of oppressive governance. In the years since, political repression has worsened, with arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, and abductions of activists becoming distressingly common. The disappearance of Itai Dzamara in 2015 remains a harrowing reminder of the regime’s disregard for dissent and human rights.

Particularly alarming is the plight of the detained. As of June 2024, 78 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) members remain imprisoned without bail, accused of participating in an “illegal gathering.” Their continued detention illustrates the state’s use of the judiciary as a tool of repression. Amnesty International, ROHR Zimbabwe, and other human rights organisations have condemned these abuses and urged immediate investigations into reports of torture, as well as the release of these political prisoners.

For those driven into exile, the song’s imagery of gazing across distant horizons symbolises enduring hope for the day they might return to a free and just Zimbabwe. Their struggle is shared by those still within the country, living under a government that continues to prioritise power at the expense of its citizens’ welfare. Under Mnangagwa’s regime, economic instability has deepened, corruption has worsened, and poverty has become more widespread, forcing millions to leave in search of safety and opportunity.

In this climate, the rooster’s crow takes on new meaning—not just as a call to rise, but as a reminder that true change often emerges in the darkest hour before dawn. It becomes a symbol of resilience and the collective yearning for justice, accountability, and renewal.

Zimbabwe’s future hinges on both external advocacy and the courage of its citizens to demand reform. As Christians, we are called to pray fervently for the nation’s freedom and restoration. This includes praying for the detained, the displaced, and the persecuted, trusting that God’s justice will prevail. Yet, prayer must be coupled with action—raising awareness, lobbying international bodies, and holding leaders accountable for their actions.

As the rooster crows each morning, it serves as a reminder of God’s promise to bring light into darkness. For Zimbabweans at home and abroad, this is a time to press on, to speak out against oppression, and to hold fast to the hope that one day the chains of injustice will be broken and freedom will reign in the land.

#FreedomForAll
#TinodaRunyararo
#WeWantPeace

NB: The video accompanying this article can also be viewed on YouTube via the following link;-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4ogxo5BjzM

About the author
Renee Brenda Langa is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe and 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

Crescendo of Hope: Defying Political Violence in Zimbabwe

2nd October 2024

Today, as the world commemorates the International Day of Non-Violence, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of peace and justice advocated by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day, observed on October 2, Gandhi's birthday, is a global call to reject all forms of violence and seek peaceful resolutions to conflict. Nonviolence is more than just the absence of violence; it is an active stance rooted in justice, compassion, and the courage to confront oppression without resorting to force. As we reflect on this important day, it is essential to examine how political violence has plagued countries like Zimbabwe, where the principles of nonviolence have been grossly undermined by those in power.

Violence can be defined as any force intended to cause destruction, disturbance, defamation, damage, or harm. While violence in all its forms whether political, gender-based, or domestic is universally condemned, certain types of violence have, unfortunately, become normalized in Zimbabwe today. Of particular concern is the rise of political violence and gender-based violence (GBV), which have become recurring features of Zimbabwean media and daily life.

In this context, it is crucial to understand the true meaning of political violence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2002), political violence is the deliberate use of power and force to achieve political objectives. In Zimbabwe, this form of violence has been manipulated, misused, and weaponized, particularly by the ruling ZANU-PF party under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa. The party has consistently deployed propaganda to paint pro-democracy activists and change champions (CCC) as perpetrators of violence, when in fact, it is ZANU-PF itself that has instigated and perpetuated much of the political violence in the country.

Names like Makomborero Haruzivishe, Job Sikhala, Takudzwa Ngadziore, and Allan Moyo are now synonymous with the brutal repression of dissent in Zimbabwe. These individuals, who have courageously stood up for justice and change, have faced severe persecution at the hands of Mnangagwa’s regime. Through the judiciary’s capture and systematic abuse of the legal system, activists are subjected to arbitrary arrests, torture, prolonged periods of remand, and biased trials. This miscarriage of justice has become normalized, raising an urgent question: Who is truly instigating political violence in Zimbabwe? Is it the change champions (CCC) seeking a democratic future, or is it ZANU-PF using violence as a tool to maintain its grip on power?

The ruling party, under Mnangagwa, has strategically abused the concept of political violence to delegitimize opposition and civil society voices. Any exercise of one’s constitutional right to free speech and peaceful assembly is twisted to appear as an act of political subversion or violence. By labeling protests and expressions of dissent as "incitement of violence," the regime seeks to justify its own violent crackdowns on innocent civilians and political opponents. It is ZANU-PF, not the activists, that has fostered a culture of fear and oppression, where violence—both physical and psychological—is used to silence any challenges to its authority.

Since Mnangagwa took over leadership following the ousting of Robert Mugabe, the pattern of political violence has continued unabated. The post-election violence of August 1, 2018, where six unarmed civilians were shot dead by the military, serves as a grim reminder of the state's willingness to use excessive force to stifle any form of protest or dissent. Despite calls for accountability and justice, those responsible for this atrocity have never been held to account. This blatant disregard for human life and the rule of law is emblematic of Mnangagwa’s regime, where violence is not only tolerated but actively used to suppress the will of the people.

The abuse of terms like "political violence" by ZANU-PF is part of a broader strategy to deflect from their own violent actions and paint their opponents as aggressors. By demonizing human rights defenders and political activists, the regime tries to shift the blame for the violence it orchestrates. But the truth is clear: ZANU-PF has long been the instigator of political violence in Zimbabwe, using intimidation, harassment, and physical force to maintain its stranglehold on power

I, therefore, call upon human rights activists, civil society organizations, and the international community to address this distortion of justice and violence. We must stand in solidarity against the ongoing violations of human rights and the manipulation of the law by Mnangagwa’s regime. Political violence is not merely a tool for silencing dissent—it is an attack on the very foundations of democracy and human dignity.

#NoToPoliticalViolence

#StopViolenceInZimbabwe

#EndGBV

#HumanRightsNow

About the author 

Beauty Msimanga is a political activist, a member of the Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC), and a member of Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.

International Day of Democracy -By Tendai Christian Mapfumo

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DEMOCRACY BY TENDAI CHRISTIAN MAPFUMO

“No one is born a good citizen, and no nation is born a democracy. Both are processes that evolve over a lifetime. Young people must be included from birth.” – Kofi Annan

International Democracy Day is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to free speech, civil liberties, and the rule of law. It is a day to ensure accountable institutions and to protect and promote human rights. As we commemorate this day, we must reflect on the vital role democracy plays in shaping a brighter future for the people of Zimbabwe and the world at large. Democracy champions human rights, freedoms, and the rule of law, fostering a collective belief in justice and equality.

However, celebrating democracy in many African countries, particularly Zimbabwe, may seem like a fallacy. Democracy has often existed merely as a concept rather than a practice, especially in light of the events that have unfolded since our so-called independence.

Zimbabwe, constitutionally a republic, has been under the grip of an authoritarian government that has not been fairly elected since the 1980s, dominated by former president Robert Mugabe and his ZANU PF regime. Under the rule of Mugabe and the current president, Emerson Mnangagwa, we have witnessed numerous human rights violations. Their regime has harassed, arrested, tortured, and abducted members of non-ZANU PF parties and civil society activists. There is a widespread disregard for the rule of law among security forces and the judiciary, along with severe restrictions on civil society.

ZANU PF has effectively controlled and manipulated the political process, undermining citizens' rights to change their government. Political activists face arbitrary arrests without justification, endure harsh prison conditions, and experience prolonged detention without trial.

Every year, credible reports emerge of politically motivated abductions and attempted abductions. There have been instances where government agents have committed arbitrary or unlawful killings, and police units have organized and participated in political violence, with perpetrators rarely facing punishment.

While the constitution and laws prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention, the government has enacted measures to weaken these protections. Despite legal prohibitions, security forces continue to carry out arbitrary arrests and detain individuals, particularly those perceived to oppose ZANU PF.

So, where is the democracy? Although the citizens of Zimbabwe yearn for genuine democratic governance, we still have a long way to go. Achieving this goal will require unity and a concerted effort to remove Mnangagwa and his ZANU PF regime.

#WeNeedARevolution

#IDofDemocracy

*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

Honouring the International Day of Democracy: Thoughts & Reflections by Memory Kishindo

Honoring the International Day of Democracy: Thoughts and Reflections by Memory Kishindo 

Democracy: What is it? A democracy is a nation that solicits feedback from its people on how it is administered.

Additionally, it's a chance to emphasize how crucial it is to preserve civil freedoms, free expression, the rule of law, accountable institutions, and individuals' human rights. Are we Zimbabweans pleased to celebrate the Day of Democracy? No, and why?

We are being murdered, tortured, kidnapped, falsely arrested, and coerced into disappearances whenever we attempt to speak out.

Since March 2015, when Itai Dzamara vanished, his family has been searching for answers. Human rights advocate Dzamara pushed the Zimbabwean government to respect human rights and address urgent economic problems. The head of Amnesty International in Zimbabwe, Lucia Masuka, urged the government of Emmerson Mnangagwa to take steps to track down and identify the activist who has gone missing. The government has done nothing, made no attempt, and kept quiet about Dzamara's disappearance for a long time. 

In Zimbabwe, a lack of the rule of law has resulted in widespread corruption, embezzlement of public monies, and a jobless rate over 90%. Youths have therefore turned to drug misuse as a way to cope with the hardships of unemployment. Over the past ten years, as the nation's economy continues to deteriorate, substance abuse has become increasingly prevalent. Democracy won't exist in Zimbabwe as long as Mnangagwa and the Zanu-PF party are in power, let alone be celebrated in a free and just nation. Unless the Zanu-PF junta party is forced from office and a new generation of leaders is chosen through free and fair democratic elections. 

As a human rights advocate, I declare that enough is enough. We are sick and weary of Zimbabwean individuals being killed, subjected to cruelty, and having their human rights violated. We have endured far too much suffering at the hands of a corrupt and cruel man. 

#IDofDemocracy2024

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. 

A Letter to My Fellow Zimbabweans: Standing Against Corruption and Injustice

3rd September 2024

Dear Zimbabweans, 

As I address you today, my name is Beauty Msimanga, I am a proud political activist, a member of the Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC) and, a member of Restoration Of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. Who I am is important only because I stand with you, representing the collective voice of our people who have suffered for too long. What drives me to write this letter is the unbearable state of our nation under the oppressive rule of ZANU-PF, led by Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. We must speak out now because our future—Zimbabwe’s future—is at stake.

The dreams of millions have turned into the nightmares we now live daily. Every day, ordinary Zimbabweans like you and me struggle to survive. Families go to bed hungry, not knowing where the next meal will come from, while those in power gorge themselves on the wealth that rightfully belongs to us all. Our schools are failing, our hospitals are crumbling, and our youth are fleeing in search of opportunities that should be available here at home. This is happening because Mnangagwa and his corrupt regime have systematically looted our resources, mismanaged our economy, and turned a blind eye to our suffering.

Where is the justice for Zimbabweans who dare to demand a better life? Look at the brutal treatment of our brothers, Job Sikhala and Jacob Ngarivhume. Job Sikhala, a fearless opposition leader and human rights lawyer, spent 595 days in pretrial detention—nearly two years—simply for standing up against the injustices inflicted upon our people. Jacob Ngarivhume, an activist and founder of the Transform Zimbabwe party, was unjustly detained for eight months because he dared to organize peaceful protests against the corruption that is suffocating our nation.

Our government has stopped being a servant of the people and has become a parasite feeding off our misery. This regime has betrayed the very people it claims to represent. Mnangagwa and his cronies have turned Zimbabwe into their personal fiefdom, where they live in luxury while the rest of us are left to fend for ourselves. They have destroyed our democracy, stripping away our rights and freedoms, all while pretending to govern. Zimbabwe is a nation where the rich get richer, and the poor are left to die.

Who are we as Zimbabweans if we allow this to continue? What kind of future can we expect if we do not fight back? When will enough be enough? The suffering we endure is not an accident—it is the direct result of Mnangagwa’s deliberate actions to enrich himself and his inner circle at the expense of the people. We can not stand by and watch as our nation is dragged further into the abyss. We must unite, rise together, and demand the change we deserve.

If we do not take a stand, the injustices will only grow, and our hope will die. As I have travelled across Zimbabwe, I have met countless brave souls who refuse to be silenced, who refuse to accept this as our fate. What gives me hope is you—the people of Zimbabwe. Together, we can create a movement powerful enough to challenge this corrupt regime and reclaim our country. We, the ordinary citizens, united in our struggle, will lead this initiative.

Our strength is in our unity, in the oneness of our voices, and we can no longer be ignored. Our demands for a democratic society, free from corruption and injustice, are not just rights; they are the foundation of the future we deserve. We must act now, for ourselves and for future generations.

I stand with you in this fight because I believe in a Zimbabwe where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, where our government is accountable to the people, and where justice prevails. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will reclaim our future.

#MnangagwaMustGo 

#NoToViolence

#WeWantChange

#Zanu-PFMust Go

#NewGovernment 

#NewLeadership

#StopHumanRightsViolations

About the author

Beauty Msimanga is a political activist, a member of the Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC) and, a member of Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.

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. 

 

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

 

ZIMBABWE - “THE SECOND REPUBLIC” IS WORSE THAN THE FIRST – By Xoliso Sithole

 27^th May 2024

"The more things change, the more they remain the same". So wrote George Orwell in his famous Animal Farm. Many writers have compared Zimbabwe to that novel, and I found myself thinking about it after reading about the arrest of nine villagers in Watsomba for booing the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Mrs Auxilia Mnangagwa. The actions of the police show how the elite connected to the President can use the country’s security forces for their own needs any time they want. It is also important to note that before she became the First Lady, Mrs Mnangagwa worked for the dreaded Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) and is connected to the security sector in her own right. In fact, the nine were subsequently released on the orders of the First Lady. The fact that the Presidential Spokesman, George Charamba, saw nothing wrong in telling the media that the country’s police take orders from someone who has no official position in government is telling.

The regime of Emmerson D. Mnangagwa likes to spin a narrative of a country moving away from that of his predecessor, the late Robert Mugabe. “The Second Republic,” as they call it. However, there are many obvious signs that Mugabe’s 37-year-long tenure still casts a shadow over the country. All the draconian laws enacted by the Mugabe regime to repress dissenting voices are still in force. The National Treasury's subversion to meet the ruling class's expensive tastes continues. Everything they said they were correcting about Mugabe’s regime when they overthrew him in a coup in 1917, Mnangagwa and his cronies are doing.

If the truth is to be told, the Mnangagwa regime is much worse than the Mugabe regime. In what was to become the hallmark of his tenure, Mnangagwa brazenly set the army upon innocent protesters in the first week of August 2018. On this occasion, six peaceful protesters were shot dead by soldiers in the streets of Harare, Zimbabwe, in broad daylight in the full glare of international media and elections observers. This was a distinct upgrade of Mugabe’s version of tyranny.

Abductions and enforced disappearances of political and human rights activists are now commonplace under the Mnangagwa regime. The following is a catalogue of recent cases of abductions;-

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 Mnangagwa regime would like attention drawn away from all this, of course. This is why they churn out reports of phantom economic achievements: highways being built somewhere, factories opened, and deals signed with foreign investors. It all sounds like good news, but the ordinary Zimbabwean still only knows about crumbling infrastructure, rampant inflation, repression and desperation. The ordinary Zimbabwean also knows violence from the security agents, who work not for law and order and public safety but to keep the masses in perpetual fear of their rulers. That a group of villagers in sleepy Watsomba can be rounded up for no crime at all is just the most recent sign of this that I have seen.

For this reason, I cannot sit back and get on with life. I must use my voice to keep the world's attention on Zimbabwe. We, the Zimbabwean masses, have been struggling and suffering under an oppressive regime for far too long. And we will struggle for a longer time until we have real freedom and democracy for all. But when? When all signs point to a Mnangagwa dynasty in the making, which generation will see a better Zimbabwe?

Our work is cut out for us. Although things may seem daunting, I will never give up the struggle.

About the author
Xoliso Sithole is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Fundraiser for the North Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at xolisosithole@yahoo.com 

 

“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

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

 

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