Zimbabwe’s Uphill Battle: Elections Amidst Systematic Human Rights Abuses

Zimbabwe‘s General Election: Systematic Crackdown on Human Rights

Overview

Amnesty International has issued a strong statement condemning the ongoing systematic crackdown on human rights in Zimbabwe. The organization highlights the restrictions on political opposition gatherings, violent suppression of protests, and the criminalization of state critics leading up to the general election on August 23rd. The past five years have witnessed a relentless suppression of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, as well as a decline in respect for socio-economic rights. Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Southern Africa, Khanyo Farisè, calls this period a “brutal crackdown” on human rights, leaving many in abject poverty and stripping away basic freedoms.

Violence and Suppression of Dissent

Zimbabwean authorities have increasingly targeted leaders of the political opposition, journalists, and activists who expose allegations of corruption or demand accountability. Prominent journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, who exposed a multimillion-dollar Covid-19-related corruption case, and political activist Jacob Ngarivhume, who called for a protest against corruption, were arrested and detained in July 2020. They faced various trumped-up charges for being vocal critics of corruption. Chin’ono was jailed multiple times and detained for about 94 days between 2020 and 2021. Ngarivhume was convicted and sentenced to four years in jail for calling for nationwide protests against corruption. These cases and others reveal the authorities’ contempt for basic freedoms and the lack of space for dissent in the so-called “second republic.”

Weaponizing the Law

The Zimbabwean government has weaponized the legal system to target critics and opposition leaders. Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono was arrested for doing his investigative journalistic work and exposing corruption. Political activist Job Sikhala was convicted on charges of “obstructing justice” for alleged statements linking the ruling party to a murder. Author and activist Tsitsi Dangarembga and fellow protester Julie Barnes were convicted of “inciting violence” after participating in protests against economic difficulties. These cases demonstrate how dissent is being criminalized in Zimbabwe, stifling freedom of expression and association.

Impunity and Denial of Justice

The rise to power of President Emerson Mnangagwa following post-election violence in 2018 has been marred by a lack of accountability. Six people were killed and 35 injured when soldiers fired live ammunition at protesters demanding official election results. Five years later, no one has been held accountable for these killings. The establishment of a commission to investigate the events has not resulted in justice for the victims. In other instances, such as the brutal assault on peaceful protesters in 2018 and the killings during nationwide protests in 2019, the authorities have used excessive force and carried out mass arrests without ensuring justice or effective remedies.

Editorial: The Erosion of Democracy and Civil Liberties

The Threat to Democracy

Zimbabwe‘s upcoming general election must be viewed in the context of the alarming erosion of democracy and civil liberties in the country. The systematic crackdown on human rights, restrictions on political opposition, and suppression of dissent all point to a troubling trend towards authoritarianism. A healthy democracy requires the protection of civil liberties, respect for human rights, and the ability for citizens to express themselves freely.

The Importance of Free and Fair Elections

Fair and free elections are the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. They provide an opportunity for citizens to express their will and hold their leaders accountable. However, in Zimbabwe, the current climate of repression and intimidation raises concerns about the legitimacy and fairness of the upcoming election. Without the protection of basic freedoms, including freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, the electoral process cannot be considered truly democratic.

The Role of the International Community

The international community has a responsibility to closely monitor the human rights situation in Zimbabwe and hold the government accountable for its actions. It is crucial for international organizations, such as Amnesty International, to shine a light on the abuses happening in the country and pressure Zimbabwean authorities to respect human rights and democratic principles. Additionally, neighboring countries, regional bodies, and the African Union should actively engage in promoting a peaceful and democratic transition in Zimbabwe.

Advice: Promoting Human Rights and Democracy

Domestic Efforts

Within Zimbabwe, civil society organizations, activists, and individuals must continue to advocate for human rights and democracy. Despite the crackdown on dissent, their tireless efforts to expose corruption, fight for accountability, and demand justice are crucial in pushing for change. It is essential that Zimbabwean citizens maintain hope, resilience, and solidarity in their pursuit of a more inclusive and free society.

Engagement with the International Community

Zimbabwean civil society organizations should actively engage with international partners, human rights organizations, and media outlets to raise awareness about the human rights abuses happening in the country. They should seek support and solidarity from the international community to exert pressure on the Zimbabwean government to respect human rights, protect civil liberties, and create an enabling environment for free and fair elections.

Pressure on the Zimbabwean Government

The international community, including regional bodies and neighboring countries, should use diplomatic channels to pressure the Zimbabwean government to respect human rights and ensure a fair electoral process. Economic sanctions, targeted measures, and the withholding of financial assistance can be effective tools in sending a clear message to the authorities that the world is watching their actions and will not tolerate the suppression of democratic values.

Long-Term Vision for Democracy

Ultimately, promoting human rights and democracy in Zimbabwe requires a long-term vision and commitment. It requires rebuilding institutions, fostering a culture of accountability, and investing in the education and empowerment of the population. The international community should support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic values, promoting social justice, and ensuring that the rights of all Zimbabweans are respected and protected.

In conclusion, the upcoming general election in Zimbabwe is taking place amid a troubling period of systematic crackdown on human rights. The restrictions on political opposition, suppression of protests, and weaponization of the law against state critics underscore the erosion of democracy and civil liberties. International pressure, both from civil society organizations and the broader international community, is crucial in holding the Zimbabwean government accountable and ensuring a fair and free electoral process. However, long-term efforts are needed to rebuild democratic institutions and promote a culture of human rights and accountability within the country.

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