Free Madzibaba VeShanduko: The injustice of jailing a man for free speech - by Vengai Mutsawu

 23rd February 2026

Free Madzibaba VeShanduko: The injustice of jailing a man for free speech

By Vengai Mutsawu

As of today, February 23, 2026, the case of Godfrey Karembera, the Zimbabwean opposition activist widely known as Madzibaba VeShanduko, stands as a stark and troubling symbol of the state’s crackdown on dissent.

Here is an innocent man, incarcerated for no legitimate crime, caught in the gears of a justice system used to silence government critics. This article chronicles the details of his arrest, the controversial charges against him, and the ongoing campaign for his release.

Godfrey Karembera, a 47-year-old staunch supporter of former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, is not new to confrontation with the authorities. His journey as an activist has been marked by repeated run-ins with the law and tragic personal attacks. In April 2025, his family home in Guruve was petrol bombed by unknown assailants. While Karembera was not home, his 17-year-old son, Laxmore, was injured rescuing younger siblings as the family’s property was reduced to ashes.

His history with the police includes a 2022 arrest for allegedly calling officers “dogs” and for wearing yellow clothing associated with the opposition CCC party. In another case in 2023, he was removed from remand after his lawyers successfully argued that the state was unfairly delaying his trial on charges of trying to deface a statue, highlighting a pattern of legal challenges that have ultimately failed to hold up in court.

The current chapter of Karembera’s troubles began in October 2025. Police launched a manhunt for him, alleging he had fled during a high-speed chase while distributing fliers in the Harare suburbs of Machipisa, Glen View, and Budiriro. However, the circumstances of his eventual arrest paint a far darker picture than a simple traffic stop.

According to his lawyer, Paida Saurombe, and human rights organizations, Karembera was not simply arrested. He was first abducted by unidentified men in unmarked vehicles, tortured for several hours, and only later dumped at Harare Central Police Station.

When he appeared in court, his lawyer stated that his “body bears the marks of severe abuse”.

Amnesty International has previously condemned such actions, noting that attacks on opposition figures are “meant to intimidate political opposition supporter”.

The charges against Karembera stem from the planned “One Million Men March,” an ant-government demonstration called for 17 October 2025, by outspoken war veteran Blessed Geza. The protest was aimed at President Emmerson Mnangagwa, accusing his administration of betrayal, corruption, and looting.

The state alleges that Karembera conspired to incite the public to participate in this unsanctioned gathering. Prosecutors claim he printed and distributed fliers bearing messages like “STOP THE LOOTNG,” and “ZIMBABWE IS NOT FOR SALE,” and “ONE MILLION MAN MARCH”.

Additionally, he is accused of recording a video urging citizens to gather at Africa Unity Square and posting it on WhatsApp and Facebook.

His legal team argues these actions are simply forms of political expression, not crimes. When his lawyer challenged his placement on remand as unlawful, Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai dismissed the application, and Karembera was denied bail. The case has since become a legal quagmire. In a significant development, on February 10, 2026, another magistrate, Ruth Moyo, was forced to recuse herself from his bail application after the defence alleged bias, arguing that Karembera had “lost confidence in the impartiality of the court”.

Karembera’s case does not exist in a vacuum. He is one of at least ten, including war veterans, who were denied bail in connection with the same October protests. His detention is viewed by rights groups as part of a “fresh wave of abductions and torture” aimed at silencing critics of President Mnangagwa’s alleged plot to extend his rule beyond 2028 constitutional limit.

The state has signalled it may also use the controversial Patriotic Act, a 2023 law with vague wording that criminalizes conduct deemed to injure the national interest, which critics argue is designed to “enable abuse and suppress legitimate political organising”.

As the months in custody stretch on, the call for his release has grown louder. A recent opinion piece published on February 11, 2026, was titled simply: “Free Madzibaba VeShanduko: A man who committed no crime must not die in prison”. The sentiment encapsulates the view of his supporters, who see him as a political prisoner.

For now, Godfrey Karembera remains in remand prison. His fate is scheduled to be decided on February 24, 2026, when the case goes to trial. Until then, his case remains a powerful and troubling test of Zimbabwe’s commitment to justice, human rights and the freedom of expression.

#FreeGodfreyKaremberaNow

#FreeMadzibabaVeShanduko

#FreeAllPoliticalPrisoners

#HumanRights

#Zimbabwe

About the author
Vengai Mutsawu is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. He is the Secretary of the UK Chapter and Chairperson of the North Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  He can be contacted by email at vengai.mutsawu@rohr-zimbabwe.org or vengaimutsawu1@yahoo.com

END OF YEAR MESSAGE – ROHR ZIMBABWE

2025: A Year of Challenges and Resilience

2025—what a year!

We had hoped to deliver a message filled with optimism, but the harsh realities in Zimbabwe compel us to speak truthfully about the ongoing struggles.

Repressive Laws and Lawfare

Throughout 2025, the ZANU-PF-led government further consolidated power through repressive legislation and tactics, significantly shrinking democratic space. Existing laws—such as the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021, and the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Amendment Act of 2023 (the "Patriotic Act")—were already highly restrictive. Yet, on 11 April 2025, the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Act (Act No. 1 of 2025) was enacted, marking a further step toward authoritarian governance by tightening controls on civic organisations and undermining democratic foundations.

The government also intensified its use of "lawfare" to suppress dissent: prolonged pre-trial detention, extended court battles after bail, financial burdens, and efforts to erode activists' resolve. A stark example is journalist Blessed Mhlanga's 72-day pre-trial detention. Arrested on 24 February 2025 for interviewing war veteran Blessed Geza—who had called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa's resignation—Mhlanga was granted bail on 6 May 2025 and released on 7 May due to processing delays.

Our Campaigns and Activism

Despite these challenges, ROHR Zimbabwe, both independently and in collaboration with partner human rights organisations, remained steadfast in advocating for the restoration of human rights.

• Campaigns: We led a sustained, successful effort to secure Blessed Mhlanga's release, highlighting his case daily on social media until his freedom was secured.
  
  
• Demonstrations: In partnership with ZHRO, ZAPU, and three CCC formations, we mobilised and participated in a protest in London on 17 June 2025 against Auxillia Mnangagwa's invitation to speak at the F.L.A.I.R. Summit. We informed organisers, speakers, guests, and the wider public that she represents the pinnacle of corruption within a kleptocratic system that has plundered Zimbabwe's resources. We highlighted the collapsed healthcare system as a direct consequence, noting the stark contrast between lavish spending (such as over US$37,000 on her summit travel) and the lack of basic resources in hospitals amid severe challenges in maternal health. Our actions contributed to her eventual non-attendance. We proceeded with the demonstration at the venue to ensure accountability and guard against any last-minute changes.
  
  
• Engagements: On 20 March 2025, representatives from our collaborative network (including ZHRO, ZAPU, and three CCC formations) met senior officials at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London. The British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Peter Vowles, joined briefly despite his demanding schedule.
  
  
• Internal Meetings: The Board of Trustees and Executive committees across our UK Chapter organs held regular scheduled meetings. Branches also convened monthly, either virtually via Zoom or in person.

Humanitarian Efforts

We mobilised vital support for those in need:

• Members generously contributed funds, which were sent directly to Blessed Mhlanga's family during his detention.
  
  
• Branches continued ongoing initiatives, including providing ointments and raising awareness for albinism relief in Manicaland, and collecting sanitary ware and bedding for Bulawayo Shelter, a charity supporting the destitute.
  
  
• We also raised funds for bereaved members, including contributions toward the burial of our late member, Chipo Komboni, who passed away in July 2025 after a short illness.

Social Media and Public Engagement

Social media remained our primary platform for amplifying human rights abuses in Zimbabwe. Through Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), our activists generated significant pressure, contributing to outcomes such as Blessed Mhlanga's release and Auxillia Mnangagwa's withdrawal from the F.L.A.I.R. Summit. Many members also shared insightful opinion pieces on our Blogspot, fostering broader societal dialogue on human rights in Zimbabwe.

Conclusion

With activists inside Zimbabwe increasingly silenced by the regime's tactics, the responsibility falls heavily on the diaspora to serve as the voice of the voiceless. We embrace this duty with honour and determination.

The Board of Trustees, the UK Chapter Executive Committee, and the Executive Committees of our Scotland, North, and Midlands branches of the UK Chapter extend heartfelt thanks to all members, supporters and sympathisers for your unwavering activism, unity, and generosity throughout 2025.

We wish you and all our stakeholders a prosperous and hopeful New Year.

The struggle continues.

END

 

ROHR ZIMBABWE COMES TO THE AID OF BLESSED MHLANGA’S FAMILY DURING HIS INCARCERATION

By Information & Publicity Team 

18^th April 2025

In a typical case of lawfare by the regime in Harare, Blessed Mhlanga, a journalist with privately owned Heart and Soul Television, a part of Alpha Media Holdings (AMH), was detained on 24^th February 2025 on incitement charges. His “crime” was to interview Blessed Geza, the war veteran who popularly called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation.

Arbitrary arrest and detention are a violation of Article 9 of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which reads, “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile”.

Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) further states that anyone arrested has the right to be brought promptly before a judge and should be released pending trial, unless there are good reasons to keep them in custody.

Also, according to Section 50(1)(d) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, bail is a constitutional right. Denial of bail should not be used to punish or pre-judge an accused, yet, 53 days after his detention and counting, Blessed Mhlanga has been denied bail thrice.

When a person is in Blessed Mhlanga’s predicament, they not only suffer physically and psychologically, but their finances are exhausted quickly, they lose earnings, and their families suffer big time as a result.

The UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe decided to mobilise funds to help Blessed Mhlanga’s family. It appealed for donations/contributions from its members. This evolved from a resolution passed in the Zoom meeting of the UK Chapter on 29^th March 2025.

The appeal went out on 29/03/2025 via WhatsApp, and £530 had been raised by 08/04/2025, thanks to the generosity of ROHR Zimbabwe members. 

We sent the £530 to Mrs Florence Mhlanga via Western Union on 08/04/2025. This was converted to USD 678.00, which she collected on 12/04/2025.

We invited Mrs Mhlanga to a bespoke WhatsApp group for only those who contributed on Monday, 14/04/2025, and we were able to interact with her before excusing her on 17/04/2025.

We shared the Western Union transfer details (MTCN) on the bespoke WhatsApp group.
For transparency purposes, we also shared the list of contributors with Mrs Mhlanga.

The following is the list of the ROHR Zimbabwe human rights activists who contributed to this fund;-

BLESSED MHLANGA CONTRIBUTIONS UPDATE - As of 09:00 hrs Tuesday 08/04/2025.

Vongayi Mufara  £20
Panyika Karimanzira  £25
Paradzai Mapfumo  £25
Charles Kanyimo  £10
Angeline Huni  £10
Nolanga E Ndlovu  £20
Tafadzwa Chivaura  £50
Mollin Muteto £10
Godfrey Mandibaya  £10
Xolisani Masuku  £10
Lilie Khanye  £20
Olivia Chamboko  £10
Lilian Nleya £10
Silvanos Mudzvova £25
Lorraine Zakeyo  £10
Paul Mukweza  £20
Harriet Ndlovu  £10
Marian Mangani  £20
Sandra S Chidemo £10
Weston Mupfururirwa £15
Farisai Kapepa £10
Delina Mutyambizi £15
Dickson Chikwizo £10
Michelle Mpofu £5
Vengai Mutsawu £5
Edineth Mtengwa  £20
Romancia Chiomba  £5
Prince Maisiri £5
Dulcie Munjeri £10
Memory Kishindo £5
Linda Mafu £10
Velisiwe Ndlovu £5
Mellisa Mbavarira £5
Shingirayi Kandi £5
Thenjiwe Ndlovu £10
Alvina Chibhamu £20
Phylis Magejo £5
Phyllis Chibanguza £10
Emily Mafuwe £20
Grace Makoni £10

Total = £530
Sent to Florence Mhlanga (to receive USD 678.00) via Western Union on Tuesday, 08/04/2025.

One of our members, Tawanda Matangambiri, contributed USD 10.00 via an ongoing GoFundMe, which is a separate initiative.

Message from Blessed Mhlanga and Family

“In my darkest hour, in the worst of times, you have stood with me and my family. My wife has made me aware of your selfless sacrifices and compassion.
It is these efforts from you that made me a journalist to speak for others and help build a selfless nation.
Being in prison is expensive, not only financially but emotionally and to family support.
Your contributions have lessened the burden on us.
To all those who contributed, may God bless you, and thank you for the solidarity and advocacy.

You are our family.

With love
Blessed and Florence Mhlanga and family”

We appreciate that this appeal was done on short notice due to the urgency of the matter.

Therefore, we extended the appeal to 30th April 2025 to give everyone a chance.

If anyone wants to contribute, please transfer to the ROHR Account details as follows;-

ROHR ZIMBABWE BANK DETAILS:-
Account Name: RESTORATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS ZIMBABWE
Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 46330349

Parallel to the fundraising effort, we advocated for Blessed Mhlanga's release via our social media platforms.

Below are some of the links to our posts;-

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BkgDpsirb/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15vcgGLXrw/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DgudeW6wR/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15kFTkXfEK/
https://x.com/ROHRZimbabweorg/status/1911340133099397616?t=nO9XiApt41wzvAyH4Kb6nQ&s=19
https://x.com/rohrzimbabweorg/status/1912793686418522471?s=48

The following is the list of the ROHR Zimbabwe human rights activists who contributed to round 2 of 2 of this fund;-

Maruwiza Nkhambala £10
Tsitsi Margaret Nkosi £20
Renee Brenda Langa £10
Panyika Anselm Karimanzira £10
Frazor Muzondo £15
Henry Makambe £5
Weston Mupfururirwa £10
Mollin Muteto £10
Romancia Chiomba £5
Omega Mpofu Kadengu £10
Dickson Chikwizo £5
Harriet Ndlovu £10
Lorraine Zakeyo £5
Lilie Khanye £20
Shingirayi Kandi £5
Praisego M Moyo £10
Tatenda Mupfururirwa £10

Round 2 of 2 Total = £245.00
Sent it to Mrs Florence Mhlanga (Received USD 305.00) via Western Union on Thursday, 15 May 2025.

All in all, in rounds 1 and 2 combined, we contributed and sent £775 (USD 983.00).

We invited Blessed Mhlanga to our bespoke WhatsApp group after his release from prison, where all those who contributed towards this fund had an opportunity to interact with him.

He is a genuinely inspiring personality.

Inserted by;-
Information & Publicity Department
Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe
Email: - humanrights@rohr-zimbabwe.org
Mobile: - +447538534375

Are the General Zimbabweans Independent?

By Vongayi Mufara

18^th April 2025

Today, 18^th April 2025, marks Zimbabwe's 45^th Independence Day—a moment to honour the hard-won freedom from colonial rule in 1980. Yet, decades later, we must ask: are ordinary Zimbabweans truly independent?

Independence is not just the lowering of a colonial flag. It is the right to live with dignity, access opportunities, speak freely, and be governed justly. For many Zimbabweans today, these rights remain a distant dream. Rampant corruption by ZANU-PF elites, the erosion of judicial independence, systemic unemployment, a collapsing healthcare system, and the brutal silencing of dissent paint a grim picture of a nation held hostage by its leadership.

So while Zimbabwe may be free on paper, the people are not truly free. Real independence means freedom from fear, hunger, and oppression—not just from foreign rulers, but from ZANU-PF tyranny as well. Until then, this day serves more as a reminder of the promises broken than of the freedom achieved by those who fought for it.

About the author
Vongayi Mufara is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Chairperson of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe and Organising Secretary of the Scotland Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at vongayi.mufara@rohr-zimbabwe.org

Joint Press Release – meeting with FCDO – London 20.03.2025

Written by: Diaspora Collaborative Statement by ROHR Zimbabwe, ZHRO, MyRight2Vote, ZAPU & CCC

####-- Collaborative Press Release 

20^th March 2025 3:30pm

Thursday, 20th March 2025, our ‘diaspora collaborative group’ held a face-to-face meeting with three important members of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, (FCDO) at their offices in King Charles Street, London: SW1A 2AH. We were also unexpectedly joined by British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Peter Vowles, who devoted 15 minutes from his busy schedule to be with us in the meeting.

There will be further joint statements about this welcome development very shortly.

Initiated by the FCDO, in requesting such an event, their initiative was as a result of a subtle change in focus by FCDO plus the 12 joint petitions delivered to the PM and the FCDO by our ‘diaspora collective group’ over the last 30 months. Summarised at the web link below;

Web Link to Petition Summary: 30-months-of-petitions

MyR2Vote/Z-DC.com {Zimbabwe Diaspora Coalition} was represented by Chief Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni; ROHR Zimbabwe were represented by Panyika Karimanzira (ROHR Zimbabwe Spokesperson) and Renee Brenda Langa (UK Chapter Deputy Information & Publicity Secretary), ZHRO was represented by John Burke (Founder) and Rashiwe Bayisayi, ZAPU was represented by Christopher Maphosa (PEC Europe Province Chairperson), Cannicious Nkala (Admin Sec. Europe) and Mlindelwa Vundhla (NPC Europe Chair) and with CCC Southend-on -Sea represented by Tatenda Changambika (standing in for Stanford Biti).

Ends --###

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

RESTORATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS (ROHR) ZIMBABWE STATEMENT ON THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS.

Today, 10^th December 2023, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights turns 75.

Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in commemorating the day on which the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted and proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1948.

In line with this year’s theme, “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All”, we take this opportunity to urge the State in Zimbabwe to stop being the perpetrator of human rights abuse and to start upholding and respecting all the human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African (Banjul) Charter on Human and People’s Rights and the Constitution of Zimbabwe.

We note with concern that the rights of the citizens and residents of Zimbabwe have been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency by the State and ZANU-PF in Zimbabwe since independence and that many state-sponsored atrocities, including an arguable genocide, enforced disappearances, incarcerations, abductions and murder, have been and continue to be committed.

We also urge the citizens and residents of Zimbabwe to join us in our continued fight for human rights in Zimbabwe and to guard their rights jealously in their daily endeavours.

Human rights are everyone’s rights.

Inserted by: –

Information & Publicity Department

Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe

NOTICE - UK CHAPTER National Meeting – Saturday 3rd June 2023

Event: - UK CHAPTER  National Meeting
Date: - Saturday 3^rd June 2023
Time: - 14:00 hrs – 16:00 hrs (London time)

Venue: - Zoom
Zoom Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7538534375?pwd=RnREUTI0SmN0T3ZwQ1J6UTdRa3JPUT09

Meeting ID: 753 853 4375
Passcode: 261316

Agenda: - To follow
This is a  very important meeting with many updates to be shared. ***DON’T MISS***

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 

Nicolate Gwati 07871849489
Thabani Muleya 07375898185
Alvina Chibhamu 07446224052
Malvern Dengu 07716210555
Vongayi Mufara 07309990505
Lilian Nleya 07853155145
Grace Makoni 07399414862
Vengai Mutsawu 07914257903

NOTICE - UK CHAPTER Executive Committee Meeting – Saturday 28th January 2023

Event: - UK CHAPTER  Executive Committee Meeting

Date: - Saturday 28^th January 2023
Time: - 14:00 hrs – 16:00 hrs

Venue: - Zoom

Zoom Link

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81318791172?pwd=SHFoVkVadm56bzcyUVNDbmw4ZEtrUT09

Meeting ID: 813 1879 1172

Passcode: 708143

 

Agenda: - To follow

 

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 

Nicolate Gwati 07871849489
Thabani Muleya 07375898185
Alvina Chibhamu 07446224052
Malvern Dengu 07716210555
Vongayi Mufara 07309990505
Lilian Nleya 07853155145
Grace Makoni 07399414862
Vengai Mutsawu 07914257903

 

 

STATEMENT BY RESTORATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS (ROHR) ZIMBABWE ON THE PLANNED DEPORTATION / REMOVAL OF SOME ZIMBABWEANS TO ZIMBABWE BY THE HOME OFFICE, UK GOVERNMENT - 14th July 2021

 14th July 2021

ROHR Zimbabwe is gravely concerned about the impending deportation / removal of some Zimbabweans to Zimbabwe by the Home Office of the government of the United Kingdom.

It has come to our attention that since the week commencing 5^th July 2021, the Home Office enforcement unit has been detaining large numbers of Zimbabweans for the purpose of deporting / removing them on chartered flights the first of which is scheduled to depart on Wednesday 21^st July 2021. Those being targeted are mainly those without leave to remain and / or have no live leave to remain applications filed with the Home Office. Top of the list are those with a criminal record in the United Kingdom.

What is disturbing about this move by the Home Office is not only that it gives no regard to the fact that the deportees’ lives are in danger when they get to Zimbabwe but also that this development is pursuant to a bilateral arrangement between the notorious government of Zimbabwe and the government of the United Kingdom. The clandestine nature of the operation and the speed at which it is being executed appears to be designed to give the victims little to no chance of access to legal representation.

There is no gainsaying the fact that the Government of Zimbabwe has an atrocious human rights record with so many recorded cases of state sponsored murder, abductions, enforced disappearances, torture, rape, excessive pre-trial incarceration and general persecution of those perceived to be enemies of the state. In this category fall members of opposition political parties, human rights activists, journalists and the diaspora community. The diaspora community in particular is accused of being sell outs mainly because they publicly speak out against the human rights violations of the repressive Zimbabwean government state agencies and the ruling party, ZANU-PF thereby exposing the Zimbabwean government’s ugly human rights record to the international community.

For the avoidance of doubt we wish to draw attention to the dossier of some of the human rights violations by the Mnangangwa regime since he ascended to power on the back of a military coup in November 2017. In a short space of time, Emmerson Mnangagwa has outperformed his notorious predecessor, Robert Mugabe in persecuting perceived enemies of the state who happen to be innocent and unarmed civilians of all walks of life. The dossier can be accessed via the following hyperlink;- https://rohr-zimbabwe.org/index.php/2020/07/19/rohr-zimbabwe-dossier-on-human-rights-violations-in-zimbabwe-from-nov-2017-july-2020-pdf-version/ .

More recent record of human rights violations by the government of Zimbabwe can be accessed via the monthly reports by ZimRights here or on the 2021 ZimRights monthly reports for June, April, March, February and January.

We urge the Home Office to immediately stop deportations / removals to Zimbabwe until such a time there has been a change in the human rights situation in Zimbabwe.

We also ask all residents of the United Kingdom to support all the initiatives that the Zimbabwean community in the United Kingdom will come up with to fight against these deportations / removals

It is our considered view that the deportees face imminent danger if they return to Zimbabwe.

####

 

By Information & Publicity Department
Contact: - Panyika Anselm Karimanzira
Spokesperson
Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe
Mobile: - +447538534375
Email: - rohrzimbabwe@yahoo.com
Email: - anselm.karimanzira@yahoo.ie

 

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking - 26 June 2021

By Vongayi Mufara

26th June 2021

The 26^th of June every year marks The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. It is a day to share research findings, evidence-based data, and lifesaving facts. It is a day set aside for the international society to continue tapping into a shared spirit of solidarity, among other things. The theme for 2021 is “Share Facts on Drugs, Save Lives”.

With many young people battling drug addiction in the world, drug abuse among the youth in Zimbabwe has reached alarming crisis levels with the number of youths engaging in drug abuse increasing yearly. Economic hardships and the outbreak of Covid19 pandemic highly contributed to the country’s growing drug abuse problems. Approximately 94% of the Zimbabwean population is unemployed and the economic conditions continue to shrink leaving the youth unemployed with nothing productive to engage in, driving them to using drugs. When the Covid19 pandemic lockdown started in March 2020, it left most school-going children not going to school. The Zimbabwean government did not put any measures in place to make sure that children continue to engage in educational activities. Most scholars around the world engaged in online learning and online social activities but sadly, this was not the situation in Zimbabwe-no provisions were made. Most school going age children would be seen roaming the streets and engaging in unpleasant activities such as drug abuse and teenage sex.

According to most locals and parents, crystal methamphetamine popularly known as “guka makafela” or “mutoriro”, among other drugs such as codeine which is a cough-based syrup are brought into the country by cross boarder smugglers from South Africa. The Zimbabwean government does not police the entirety of the boarders and chose to turn a blind eye, collect bribes and allow the drugs to penetrate our boarders. Locals know drug dealers in their communities and have also approached the Police, but it is believed that the distributors are bribing the security forces to turn a blind eye to these activities. These drugs remain unaffordable to the average person and yet despite the steep cost people still manage to purchase these highly addictive drugs so they can just while up time and numb the pain brought about by the poverty situation.

Young people who persistently abuse substances often experience an array of problems which include academic issues, health related problems and even drug related deaths. Declining grades, absenteeism from school and potential dropouts of school is the current situation in Zimbabwe. Health related problems like the transmission of HIV/AIDS are very common as many substance-abusing youth engage in behaviours that places them at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases. Despite the collapsing economy, there has been more drug related crimes in Zimbabwe and if measures to curb drug misuse are not put in place, Zimbabwe will be counted among the leading drug trafficking countries.

Zimbabwe’s health system has been found wanting. The hospitals cannot treat drug addicts and do not have the facilities and resources like rehabilitation centres. This causes the situation to continue unabated. Drug induced mental health issues are now commonplace. Most drug users’ relapse when they go back to the townships where they have nothing to do and are peer-pressured to start abusing drugs. The situation continues to worsen as the government turns a blind eye and continue to loot public funds meant for hospitals and rehabilitation centres. The few private owned rehabilitation centres are expensive, especially for the young unemployed people in townships.

I call upon the Zimbabwean government to play a constructive role in acting against drug trade in the country. Not only in the interest of its state institutions, but in the long-term interest of the wellbeing of its own people. The Zimbabwean government should dedicate and avail resources to counter drug trafficking to avoid the longer-term consequences of continued demand for drugs which is currently being facilitated by the current socio-economic conditions which the traffickers are currently riding on. The Zimbabwean government should start discussions and debate in parliament on how to prevent drug trafficking and drug related health issues and death. I call upon the government to allocate funding to promote recovery and mitigate the harm that is caused by drugs in the community.

According to the 2021 world drug report by 2030 demographic factors project the number of people using drugs to rise by 40% in Africa alone. Drug trafficking is a regional and international crisis. It requires cooperation with other nations. Zimbabwe should develop policies which improves its relationships with its neighbours and the larger international community. It should start working with neighbouring countries such as South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, Botswana to develop modern infrastructure which makes drug smuggling difficult. I would recommend the Zimbabwean Government to take the lead.

We can tackle the drug problem in Zimbabwe if we work together.

#ShareFactsOnDrugs

#SaveLives

#WDD2021

 

About the author

Vongayi Mufara is a prominent Zimbabwean human rights activist and the Secretary for Information & Publicity for the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. She is also the Organizing Secretary for the Scotland Branch of the UK Chapter of ROHR Zimbabwe. She writes in her personal capacity in this instance.
She can be contacted by email; - vongayimufara@gmail.com

ROHR UK Chapter Branch Chairs & Secretaries Zoom meeting – Sunday 11.10.2020 Report

12^th October 2020

 

On Sunday 11^th October 2020, a meeting of the Chairpersons and Secretaries of ROHR Zimbabwe’s UK Chapter’s structures was held via Zoom. The meeting was chaired by National Chairperson, Nicolate Gwati.

Register of Attendance

Olivia Chamboko, Alvina Chibhamu, Nicolate Gwati, Nomagugu Sibanda, Delina Mutyambizi, Billie Nedie

No apologies were received from non-attending members.

Agenda

1. Non-attendance/participation at Branch level

2. Problems within ROHR

3. Solution

3. AOB

 

Meeting started at 17:00hrs

 

Nikki asked the chairs to suggest what to do for non-attending members

 

Scotland Branch

·       Olivia Chamboko cited problems with members not doing their duties, excuses being no experience sometimes, or short notice. She noted that some people seem to just want to collect information without participating and it is weighing heavily on the few members that had to carry the burden of making things work. She had raised the matter with the Board of Trustees and had been advised to remove any non-committed member from the Branch Committee provided she followed due process and that the Branch Executive Committee has passed a resolution to remove such members. Olivia stated that the Scotland Branch Executive Committee had held a meeting yesterday, 10^th October 2020 and had resolved, among other things, to give non-committed members a month’s notice to either pull up their  socks or be risk being stripped of their portfolios.

·        Alvina Chibhamu stated that they had raised this matter recurrently and that they had now reached the end of their tethers, hence the notice to non-committed members. Only a few people seemed to toil for the branch. The others seemed content with just piggybacking on the few despite everyone knowing what their role entails. Even when they have been fed with ideas, deadlines are still missed and they have to be chased up.

What has been working?

·         Alvina, Vongayi and Olivia are doing all the work and carrying the branch and this has become too taxing.

North Branch

Nicolate Gwati cited non activity from the North Branch for a while. Karen responded by saying they have revamped the committee but still face the same problems as before where only a handful of people do all the work. This is hugely discouraging as usually one person ends up taking up multiple roles to make the branch work.

There was need to address this as a (new) committee, but even when the meeting was called to try and re-strategize-only three people attended.

 

Midlands Branch

Nicolate also stated that members are also not active.  Only the same three people in the Branch Executive Committee tend to participate

Nomagugu Sibanda also noted that not many people seem committed.  Some give the excuse of having work commitments, others have given the pandemic as an excuse, some are experiencing digital poverty and cannot participate on zoom calls.

Recommendations sought from Board members with all their vast experience as the current situation is non-sustainable.

·        Delina commented this has been a long-standing attitude since she came on board in 2009. Sadly, the commitment we rely on is from a handful of willing members. This attitude extends to the wider Zimbabwe populace, Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono for instance complained that people literally wage a war, commenting only on social media about issues but not acted on the information.

·        Mr Nedie pointed out that turnout was high and huge when ROHR started as most people did not have documentation. However, the ‘2020 challenge’, stemmed from a “forensic interpretation” of the future of ROHR he did in 2009,where membership was predicted to dwindle and then revamped, which is where we are now.

·         Mr Nedie commended the Scotland branch for the work it is doing, together with other members who are still focused.

 

Challenges facing ROHR

We are perceived as an Asylum-seeking organisation and as such we struggle to attract membership from people with some form of right to remain.

§       We need  to address attitudinal challenges. We could start by engaging all Zimbabweans, especially old members, including British citizens as well as those without status. Mr Nedie bemoaned the apathy in the Zimbabwean diaspora in general when it came to standing up for human rights. He said that we need to take a leaf from west Africans who always unite for a common cause.

§        On that note, Nikki cited the #EndSARSmovement in Nigeria where its government is buckling due to mounted pressure from the whole country, they managed to rope in the international community through social media.

§        The Covid-19 pandemic issue has taken us backwards as there is no face to face contact. In some branches, members may have been demotivated by not seeing ROHR longstanding members, mostly board members coming to in support their branch meetings. Current restrictions have meant the non-appearance of familiar faces/ ROHR members in these branches.

 

Proposed way forward

§       We need ROHR foot soldiers on the ground in Zimbabwe-wearing ROHR t-shirts, being seen on television, radio, and social media to put ROHR on the map

§        Zimbabweans are not united, we need to change that narrative and have every member change the way we are seen in their own circles, in and outside of ROHR.

§        Delina commended Scotland and Midlands branches for their contributions towards the visibility of ROHR as a human rights organisation. Scotland Branch’s fundraising efforts in support of the Epworth kitchen in Zimbabwe through reaching out to the communities outside of Zimbabweans to solicit funds is commendable.  We need to be aware of what is happening around and continue to support initiatives that foster a change in attitude towards human rights and welfare issues of the Zimbabwean populace thereby enhancing the image of ROHR Zimbabwe as a human rights organization.

§       Alvina added that the Scotland Branch discussed Black History Month, in particular, the relevance of countless unsung heroes in Zimbabwe. She also suggested we market ROHR Zimbabwe beyond Zimbabwean circles and hope to collaborate with like-minded international human rights organizations.

§      Alvina suggested to take advantage of the pandemic situation and hold a National zoom meeting

§      Some members give the excuse of lack of training. Mr Nedie offered to mentor anyone who felt they needed help in performing their role.

§       Nicolate said we need to find a way of speaking to members. Take it to task to start calling members to try and re-engage them and map ways forward. Survey underway from the Executive Committee to try and bring people back to the fold from all the issues being raised by members

§       Delina spoke on the area of educating members as some do not understand their rights etc. Campaigns such as #MeetYourMP helped raise awareness. When approached, MPs are usually keen to know learn more about the human rights situation in Zimbabwe and tend to be very cooperative. A good example is when Alvina’s MP came to a Scotland Branch meeting to discuss the situation in Zimbabwe. This followed the meeting Alvina had with the MP. We need to keep on knocking on doors and keep making noise as ROHR. We should be nonpartisan so that we are in good position to challenge any office if they are in breach of human rights.

§       Mr Nedie suggested organising capacity building- education exercise about what it means to be a Human Rights Activists and all the questions surrounding, retraining of members, motivation, and other workshops for members. (Olivia asked if we could have the trainings on meetings)

AOB

Nicolate announced we will reconvene in 2 weeks. The date for the next meeting was set and announced as 18^thOctober 2020

With all agenda items having been exhausted, the meeting was declared closed by Nicolate Gwati at 1800hrs.

Alvina Chibhamu-Secretary of UK Chapter took minutes.

 

To see screenshots of the meeting please follow the link below; -

https://www.flickr.com/photos/rohr_zimbabwe__manchester/albums/72157716364044822

 

By Information & Publicity Department

ROHR UK Chapter Executive Committee Zoom meeting Sunday 4th October 2020 - Report

5^th October 2020

On Sunday 4^th October 2020, the Executive Committee of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe held a meeting via zoom. Nicolate Gwati, the Chairperson, chaired the meeting.

Attendance Register

Nicolate Gwati, Alvina Chibhamu (Secretary), Lilian Nleya (Organising Secretary), Vongayi Mufara (Information & Publicity Secretary), Grace Makoni (Treasurer) and Delina Mutyambizi

Agenda

1)     Roles and areas of responsibility and expectations from each portfolio holder

2)     Map out a plan as the UK Chapter for initiatives in the organization

 

Meeting start: 14:00 hrs

Roles and areas of responsibility

Congratulations were exchanged with regards to new appointments within the Executive Committee. Nicolate went on to ask if people were aware of what their roles and responsibilities entail. Alvina, Vongayi and Lilian took it in turns to say, in short, in their own words, their understanding of their respective portfolios. Nicolate highlighted this was necessary to establish in order to avoid repeating past mistakes and avoiding a situation in the past whereby some members have been “passengers”.  She encouraged members to ask if they were not sure of any aspects of their roles.

 

Information on UK Chapter

Nicolate expressed that the expectation is for everyone within the committee to respond to messages on the group chat and if we have to be effective, we need to work as a team to function properly.

As she settles in her new role as Chairperson, Nicolate promised to keep an open-door policy and encouraged us all to approach her with ideas, suggestions, etc and everyone is free to contribute.

Contracts

It was reported that Mr Panyika Karimanzira, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, has come up with contracts for each of us. This way, everyone has the accountability of their actions and breaches can easily be identifiable. Going from past experiences, gentlemen’s agreements have left room for abuse, the contracts are therefore meant to mitigate whatever it is that would have come up.

 

Map out a plan as UK Chapter

Discussions centred around other sub-committees within the organization. Examples are the Human Rights Monitoring sub-committee and the Fundraising sub-committee. It was noted that the UK Chapter Executive Committee had not held a committee meeting in the last two months and that this needed to be rectified to ensure we stay on top of things.

• UKChapter initiatives will be rolled out UK-wide. Recognized that Scotland have rolled out a few campaigns lately and some branches have been inactive or minimally active.
• Alvina spoke about fundraising ideas and went by what they were doing at branch level (Scotland). Nicolate commented that it went back to the constitution (yet to be finished) and that funding can be accessed if ROHR becomes a charity. Will seek an update from the Board of Trustees with regards to the completion of the Constitution as there can only be so many donations you can solicit from individuals and ROHR can gain so much credibility when we have charity status especially where we can fully delve into helping people or activists on the ground in Zimbabwe. We are missing out a lot as an organization and we have individuals that need help, but we need to position ourselves to be eligible for those funds.
• That said, Nicolate challenged us to look at the environment and see what can we push as an agenda?
• Vongayi spoke about the #ZimbabweanLivesMatter and observed that as ROHR we need to be more visible, not come up with something towards that campaign and that it was up to each and every one of us an organization to push through this hashtag. She reminded us of the outdated letter to the MP’s that we could be utilized to take advantage of the situation and address this hashtag with them.
• Nicolate advised us all to brainstorm and highlight all issues since the lockdown that we can include to update the letter to the MP so that Alvina can redraft and update the letter.
• Vongayi spoke of the non-participation of other branches; so much is said and discussed on monthly meetings, but little is actioned. Nicolate has likened the experience to ‘pulling teeth’ where actually getting people to participate is so hard even at branch level.
• Alvina shared what has worked at Branch level within the Scotland Branch to rope in everyone. She also suggested we come up with a questionnaire to ask what people are interested in, what is working and what is not working so as to gauge where it’s all going wrong. Vongayi concurred picked on individuals engaging- we need to find out what is going on. We do not see as much commitment and enthusiasm as we would expect from our people especially considering the worsening human rights situation is concerned. The apathy needs to be addressed by us as the leadership.
• Alvina also suggested as UK chapter we must take responsibility for the performance of branches.
• The Executive Committee should perform internal audits of branches, attend their meetings and liaise with the respective branch committees to really pick their brains and offer necessary support and motivation. Probably most convenient during the lockdown as it can easily be arranged on zoom.
• Additionally, another avenue maybe, for example, Nicolate as Chairperson of UK Chapter, convene with respective Branch chairs, Alvina as Secretary, liaise with all secretaries and so on and so forth right down through the committee hierarchy.

Branches

Midlands Branch

Performing well but there is scope for improvement. Some committee members and ordinary members not pulling their socks and such need motivation.

Scotland Branch

Performing well but there is scope for improvement. Some committee members and ordinary members not pulling their socks and such need motivation.

 

North Branch

Historically was the flagship of the UK Chapter but has lost its shine over the past few years to a point where it is almost not functioning at all.

South Branch (London & environs as well as all England areas south of London)

Delina Mutyambizi advised that Mr Mapfumo is just now trying to revive the branch. It is experiencing a lot of pull back from individuals themselves so it is still baby steps.

 

Actions

·        Letter to the MP - to be posted to the group and updated. Everyone to research and look at how they can contribute (Deadline for submissions on the ROHR WhatsApp groups is Wednesday 7^th October 2020)

·         Alvina to work on questionnaire and post on the ROHR WhatsApp groups.

• We should be able to work on an initiative for ZLM campaign
• Tsungie used to help with video editing but she is busy at the moment (Nicolate might ask her for training)

·        Cold calling to individuals-Nicolate will start with cold calling members (and delegate to others) to get a feel of what is happening with each person.

       ROHR now has own zoom account that branches can use to host meetings-extra care to be taken to avoid hijackers

AOB

-  Delina enquired on the progress of the petition launched via the HR Monitoring team

-  The Dossier that went with the petition will need to be updated. Meeting to be set up

Delina encouraged everyone to look up Peter Ndoro -SABC news anchor as well as Ibbo Mandaza’s zoom link which took place on Thursday regarding the proposed transitional authority route for Zimbabwe. She will post the link to the UK Chapter group.

Vongayi gave an update on what is happening in the Activist Fundraising Committee. A uniform assistance programme will be implemented when handing out the monetary and food packs to affected activists on the ground in Zimbabwe. This is following the identification of reliable Human Rights organizations in different parts of the country who will verify individual accounts and make the referrals for assistance to ROHR Zimbabwe.

Nicolate announced the date of the next meeting as 18th October 2020.

 

All agenda items having been exhausted Nicolate Gwati declared the meeting closed at 1830hrs.

Pictures of this meeting can be viewed via the hyperlink below;-

https://www.flickr.com/photos/rohr_zimbabwe__manchester/albums/72157716251247938

 

 

By: - Information & Publicity Department