MARTIN MAWAYA
GWERU-The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has condemned the escalation of political violence in the country ahead of the crunch harmonized elections mid this year.
ZHRC said the acts of violence are in violation of the rights and freedoms of citizens as enshrined in the country’s supreme law.
This comes after several people were injured in political violence clashes that were reported in Murewa, Masvingo and Gokwe recently.
In a statement yesterday, ZHRC condemned political violence and urged the Zimbabwe Republic Police to expeditiously investigate such cases without fear or favour.
“ZHRC has noted with concern the rise in incidences of political violence in the country. These incidences are in violation of the freedoms of Assembly and Association (S58) and Political Rights (S67). In addition, the ZHRC notes that in a democracy, citizens have the right to express freely their opinions, right to vote, form political parties and take part in political activities. As such the protection of these rights is fundamental to ensuring public accountability and the promotion of other human rights,” reads the statement.
The ZHRC also noted, “the reported cases of political violence in Murewa, Masvingo and Gokwe wherein political parties have clashed resulting in violence and injuries to persons. Whilst investigations into the alleged violations are underway by relevant authorities, the ZHRC condemns these acts of violence and exhorts all political actors to emulate His Excellency, the President in advocating for a peaceful election and denouncing violence across the political divide. The respect of political rights helps people to live together peacefully, and ensures humane and equal treatment for all societal members. The exercise of these rights gives voice even to the weakest and vulnerable members of society and should be respected. If these rights are respected by all there will be no violence or oppression by one against the other”.
The commission added that all stakeholders in the country should exercise political tolerance, maturity and co-exist with those of different political persuasions in the build up to the 2023 harmonised elections.
ZHRC said churches, traditional leaders and other independent commissions as well as political leaders in the country should preach peace to their supporters and party structures.
It highlighted that “those affected should report human rights violations and any criminal activities in the area to the police so that the law can take its course. The rights commission also urged the law enforcement agencies, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Judicial Services Commission to timeously deal with all cases of political violence before the courts
