PROVINCIAL OUTLOOK
October MMR
Manicaland
The province recorded the highest number of violations, 32, in the reporting month. Communities in the
province are facing numerous challenges that undermine human rights and democratic values.. The situation is
further complicated by political intimidation, particularly in the run-up to the bi-election period in Headlands.
Citizens are being coerced into associating with ZANU PF in ward cells, with traditional leaders and village
heads implicated in theft of food aid and political discrimination in food aid and agricultural inputs. Youth
militias have been involved in assaults on community members who raise concerns or queries particularly if
excluded in the government sponsored aid programs. The right to education is also being compromised, as
learners are turned away due to non payment of school fees. The politicisation of food aid and agricultural
inputs has resulted in unequal distribution, with opposition supporters often excluded. These actions
undermine the principles of democracy and human rights, perpetuating a culture of fear and intimidation. The
role of traditional leaders in Zimbabwe has been a subject of debate, with concerns around their alignment
with the ruling party and potential conflicts of interest. Ensuring accountability, transparency, and protection
of human rights is crucial to addressing these challenges.
Concluding Note
The month of October witnessed a continued trend of human rights violations in Zimbabwe, perpetrated by
various actors including political figures, the police and traditional leaders. These violations ranged from
harassment, intimidation, and discrimination to denial of access to basic services and resources. The
Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP) documented 184 violations of human rights, highlighting the need for urgent
attention and action.
ZPP therefore recommends increased accountability. The government should ensure that traditional leaders
act in a non-partisan manner, as stipulated in the Constitution and traditional leaders Act. Additionally, the
government must address economic challenges and provide essential services to all citizens, regardless of
political affiliation. ZPP recommends that the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) should investigate
reported human rights violations, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide reparations to victims. In the
spirit of cultivating a culture of peace in Zimbabwe, ZPP urges all citizens to support community peacebuilding initiatives and for leaders to foster tolerance and peaceful coexistence among citizens By
implementing these recommendations, Zimbabwe can move towards a more just and equitable society, where
human rights are respected and protected.
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