March 2019
HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS
Khupe. This violence is an indication of the leadership crisis that the party has
experienced since Tsvangirai’s death.
If unresolved, the current spate of violence within the party can escalate and cause
more harm as the dates of the elective congress draw nearer. This violence can also
negatively impact the national dialogue as a violent environment is not conducive for
such processes.
The devastating effects of Cyclone Idai have left many of the affected families
vulnerable to political abuse. For example, Zanu PF has been visiting the affected
areas in party branded vehicles and wearing party regalia; further polarising
communities. The suspension of COTRAD and ZACH by Masvingo DA is an
indication of a crackdown on Civil Society Organisations after the January
national stay away.
This follows threats made by President Emmerson
Mnanganwa in December 2018 to deregister NGOs and his utterances in
February encouraging villagers to report any strangers to village heads; a move
that was seen as targeting those who criticise government. These threats
encouraged community gatekeepers to keep out perceived threats; CSOs being
regarded as one of these.
ZPP calls for the following:
Government must put in place concrete disaster preparedness measures in order to deal
with disasters effectively.
Civil liberties and rights as enshrined in the Constitution, including the rights to
assembly, protest and association, should be respected.
If you are concerned about acts of violence in your community ZPP encourages you to get in
touch on WhatsApp numbers: +263 774 883 406 and +263 774 883 417 and Toll free
number 080 80199
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