PRESS STATEMENT
International Day of Peace
ZPP acknowledges the work of state institutions such as the Zimbabwe Human
Rights Commission and the Zimbabwe Gender Commission that have
demonstrated willingness to engage constructively in peacebuilding. At the
same time, we encourage these and other constitutional bodies, such as the
Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC), to become more
visible, proactive, and accessible in the disposition of their mandates. Greater
presence and engagement will build trust and restore confidence in public
institutions.
ZPP makes a direct appeal to political leaders across the spectrum: sincerity
must replace rhetoric. Leaders must prioritise policies that safeguard human
rights and deliver essential services. Peace is not built on slogans but on
people’s lived experiences. When citizens see equitable distribution of
resources, functioning social services, and policies that uphold dignity, they are
more inclined to build peace among themselves and extend it to others. Without
this, political promises ring hollow, fueling frustration and disillusionment.
The enjoyment of socio-economic rights is central to peace. A hungry,
unemployed, and excluded population cannot be expected to prioritise peace
when survival itself is at stake. Zimbabwe must therefore align both domestic
and international trade policies with the protection and advancement of socioeconomic rights. Peace will flourish when citizens are empowered, livelihoods
are secure, and communities benefit tangibly from national resources. In turn,
this will nurture social cohesion, an ideal already envisioned in National
Development Strategies.
On this International Day of Peace, ZPP calls for concrete and collective
action:
To Civil Society and Community-Based Organisations: Deepen grassroots
peacebuilding, document violations, and hold duty-bearers accountable
while fostering inclusive dialogue across divides.
To Political Parties: Put the nation above partisan interests. Uphold nonviolence, fairness, and transparency in all political processes.
To State Institutions and Independent Commissions: Strengthen
accountability mechanisms, protect rights without fear or favour, and build
trust with citizens.
To the International Community: Support Zimbabwe’s peacebuilding
initiatives with technical, diplomatic, and financial assistance, ensuring that
human rights and socio-economic justice remain central to development
partnerships.
Peace is not an abstract dream; it is the practical outcome of justice, fairness,
and accountability. It thrives when leaders are sincere, when institutions serve
impartially, and when communities are empowered to prosper.
On this International Day of Peace, ZPP urges every Zimbabwean, leaders,
institutions, civil society, and communities, to recommit to peace, not only in
words but in action. Together, we can reimagine and realise a Zimbabwe where
peace is not fragile but firm, not conditional but guaranteed, and not
postponed but lived every day.
For any inquiries: zppinfo@myzpp.com