APRIL VIOLATIONS
0
Threats of Violence
Restricted freedom of assembly
Assault
Impeded access
Restricted access to social services
Unfair distribution of food aid
MDP
Restrictred Freedom of Expression 3
Bombing/IED Explosion 2
Abduction 1
20
8
8
8
7
7
36
10
POLITICAL INTIMIDATION
AND THE EROSION OF CIVIC FREEDOMS IN ZIMBABWE
The systematic harassment, intimidation, and politically motivated violence targeting citizens, activists, and
human rights defenders continue to pose a serious threat to peace and human rights accountability in
Zimbabwe. During the reporting period, the Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP) documented 36 violations related
to threats of violence, affecting 3113 people (1535 women, 1578 men) across the country. These threats often
escalated into physical violence, as reflected in eight cases of political assaults, in which 37 people were
assaulted, and seven incidents of malicious property damage. These acts represent a clear violation of
fundamental rights, including the right to personal security, freedom of assembly and association, freedom of
expression, and protection from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
In the run up to the country’s Independence Day on April 18, citizens experienced heightened harassment under
the guise of fundraising efforts led by village heads and ruling party officials. In Mudzi North, every villager over
18
was
coerced
into
paying
US$3,
allegedly
split
between
acquiring
a
ZANU
PF
membership
card
and
contributing to provincial independence celebrations. Refusal to comply reportedly led to blacklisting from
community development initiatives and food aid programs. This form of intimidation led to many citizens
surrendering their freedom as their political rights were also trumped upon. Similar coercive tactics were
reported in Marondera West, Wedza North, Shamva North, Seke, and Mutare North, with some efforts targeting
school children and civil servants, violating their rights to free association and non-discrimination.
In more extreme cases, politically motivated violence intensified. In Glenview South, Ward 32, the homes of a
former elected councillor and another activist were bombed days before a crucial by-election, damaging
property and injuring residents. In Guruve South, Ward 7, a CCC activist’s home was attacked with explosives,
seriously injuring a family member. A black Ford Ranger vehicle without plates was seen circling the area prior
to the incident, raising suspicions of targeted political terror. The victim also received repeated threats in the
lead-up to the attack, largely for his suspected role in mobilising protests.
Report
Human Rights Violations
0774883417 0774883406
4