KEY VIOLATIONS
FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION UNDER ATTACK
The Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP) has documented a disturbing trend of suppressing freedom of expression
and media freedom, with 22 violations recorded in the reporting month, contravening Section 61 of the
Zimbabwean Constitution. 944 people were affected by this breach.
In Gokwe North, Councillor Mr. Mapani of Ward 27 summoned seven community members from Chidora
District, forcing them to apologize for publicly opposing the 2030 presidential term. The victims were warned
against repeating their actions, which constitutes a violation of freedom of expression and disregard for
political rights.
Similar incidents occurred in other areas. In Chiwundura constituency, ZANU PF youths threatened individuals
mobilizing support for demonstrations organized by war veterans demanding President Mnangagwa's
resignation. n Gokwe Kabuyuni, Chief Chireya, known for supporting the ruling party, convened a meeting with
400 village heads. He instructed them to suppress free expression and warned villagers opposing the 2030
agenda that they would face punishment. These actions undermine the rights enshrined in the Zimbabwean
Constitution, specifically Section 61, which guarantees freedom of expression and freedom of the media.
Incidents in Gokwe North, Chiwundura constituency, and Gokwe Kabyuni demonstrate a disregard for political
rights and freedom of expression, with authorities using threats and intimidation to silence opponents of the
2030 presidential term. ZPP strongly emphasises the need for the government to respect the rights of
journalists and media professionals to report freely and without fear of reprisal and protect all citizens’ right to
freely express themselves as well as exercise their political rights without any undue influence.
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