Wave after Wave
JUNE 2021
2.2 General Conclusion
The tussle for the rural vote is likely to have a huge impact on the human rights situation
in the country. This is because there is a likelihood of an increase in inter-party violence.
In one of the interviews in Murehwa, an MDC Alliance supporter, who is victim of
politically motivated arson in previous elections said, “This time if they (Zanu PF
supporters) burn my house, I will also burn theirs. It is tit for tat.” What this calls for, is the
strengthening of electoral reforms that enable a level playing field ahead of 2023.
There is also need for inter party dialogue to carve out the longstanding scourge of
unresolved political violence cases.
Only this can allow citizens to approach campaigns and electoral processes in a
democratic and tolerant way.
In general, the following civil and political rights have been violated:
Section 58.
Freedom of assembly and association
1. Every person has the right to freedom of assembly and association, and the right not to
assemble or associate with others.
2. No person may be compelled to belong to an association or to attend a meeting or
gathering.
Section 77b.
Every person has the right to-b. sufficient food;
and the State must take reasonable legislative and other measures, within the limits of the
resources available to it, to achieve the progressive realisation of this right.
Section 281.
1. Traditional leaders must-c. treat all persons within their areas equally and fairly.
2. Traditional leaders must not-a. be members of any political party or in any way participate in partisan politics;
b. act in a partisan manner;
c. further the interests of any political party or cause; or
d. violate the fundamental rights and freedoms of any person
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