MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS
Hate Language
Hate speech by politicians, especially those from the ruling party were uttered in
a confrontational manner. The use of hate language has been mainly perpetrated
by Zanu PF activists during meetings and rallies. In one of their star rallies in
Bulilima District at Nyele village, Zanu PF Provincial Chairperson for Matabeleland
South, Mangaliso Ndlovu likened the Citizens’ Coalition for Change leadership and
supporters to cockroaches stating that they are confused with no strategy. While
Ndlovu is entitled to freedom of expression within the political context, it must be
noted that hate language fuels violence. Beyond that, the sentiment that he used
during the rally is the same hate language that was used in the 1980’s by Robert
Mugabe during the Gukurahundi genocide. Similarly, such language which likens
human beings to pests fueled the violence in Rwanda and left many people dead.
During an engagement meeting with artisanal miners, President Mnangagwa
insulted individuals and institutions that undermine the ‘democracy’ that prevails
in the country. In his speech, Mnangagwa fumed by stating that to those that
undermine the democracy that the country enjoys, ‘Musoro wambuya wako’ (Big
head of your grandmother). The insult has been widely used in societies where
women are undermined and looked down upon. This is a clear violation of
women’s rights as hate and inflammatory language tends to be feminised.
Community members in Zhombe urban were not spared of hate language. It was
noted that Christopher Matambo of Zanu PF threatened opposition members with
death especially those from the the Citizens’ Coalition for Change. It is said that
Matambo is also working hand in glove with Forever Association Zimbabwe where
they are targeting opposition members and delivering death notices. The use of
hate language fuels violence if not regulated by bringing the perpetrators to book.
ZPP condemns the use of hate language by prominent politicians ahead of the
harmonised elections. ZPP believes that hate language incites violence therefore
politicians should desist from use of hate language to promote peace prior, during
and after elections. We are also aware that hateful words can all too easily lead to
physical attacks on citizens and set off an electoral cycle of violence. As an
organisation that monitors politically motivated human rights violations and
violence, we believe that some of the statements made are potentially explosive
and might ignite violence in the not-so-distant future.
Intimidation by FAZ
The activities of Forever Associates Zimbabwe continued to violate citizens'
rights to freedom of assembly and association and their political rights. Looking at
the figures of perpetrators it seems FAZ has overtaken the Zimbabwe Republic
Police to become the second only to Zanu PF. A case of intimidation was reported
in Chegutu East ward 16 at Waze business centre on 12 June 2023. It is alleged
that members of FAZ Olivia Mushonga, Muzvare and Shyne Nyathi told two CCC
activists that they will be targeted after the elections.
07