KEY VIOLATIONS
Across rural communities, a consistent trend continues where there is weaponisation of food aid and
agricultural inputs to enforce political loyalty. The methods of control, harassment, threats of eviction, and
exclusion from essential state programs, leave residents trapped in a climate of fear. Beyond the immediate
violations of civil and political rights, these practices erode dignity and strip citizens of their ability to
participate freely in community and national life. In one instance in Masvingo North’s Ward 32, ZANU PF
officials Nyasha Chigutsa and Philmon Taderera ordered repayment for agricultural inputs received under a
state program. Residents were warned that failure to comply would lead to exclusion from future food aid
and government support. While the programme asked beneficiaries of government-sponsored schemes to
contribute to grain reserves being collected by the Grain Marketing Board as per their announcement of June
2025, its implementation has been forceful and coercive, compelling even households with poor harvests and
non-beneficiaries to participate. This approach is especially concerning as it undermines the residents’ rights
to freely express themselves, make independent choices, and enjoy their fundamental freedoms.
The incidents of harassment and intimidation, often based on political power, reveal not isolated abuses but
a systemic pattern of politicised intimidation that undermines fundamental freedoms. Left unchecked, these
actions will continue to entrench fear and dependency, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and poverty.
August Human Rights Vioaltions
0
20
Restricted freedom of assembly and association
38
29
Threats of Violence
Restrictred Freedom of Expression
Restricted access to social services
Other
Assault
Unfair distribution of food aid
Displacement
MDP
Unjustified arrest
Hate speech
Disappearances
Inhuman treatment
Report
Human Rights Violations
15
11
10
7
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
0774883417 0774883406
5