Zimbabwe is experiencing a rise in political violence linked to Zanu PF’s agenda to extend President Mnangagwa’s term, affecting over 7,000 individuals in February. The Zimbabwe Peace Project documented numerous human rights violations, including assaults and restrictions on freedoms, particularly targeting vulnerable groups. Calls for stronger protections and effective human rights investigations have been made amid these escalating tensions.
Zimbabwe currently faces a significant increase in political violence attributed to the ruling Zanu PF party’s ambition to prolong President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s presidency beyond 2028. February alone saw 117 documented human rights violations nationwide, impacting 7,292 individuals according to a report from the Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP). This alarming trend highlights a concerning environment marked by intimidation, politically-motivated assaults, and undue limitations on civil liberties.
The ZPP report specifies that among the victims were 4,064 women, including 94 with disabilities, and 3,228 men, with 77 reporting disabilities as well. The report indicates that community members are increasingly compelled to participate in Zanu PF meetings under the pretext of public events for food aid distribution, a strategy aligned with the party’s 2030 agenda.
Moreover, intra-party conflicts within Zanu PF have reportedly escalated, evidenced by physical confrontations at various local gatherings. For instance, a notable clash occurred in Ward 2, Kadoma, where supporters engaged in violence regarding the ‘2030 agenda.’ In another incident, two members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) were assaulted by Zanu PF supporters for opposing the extension of the presidential term.
Victims of these violent acts have suffered physical injuries, including assaults with metal rods, resulting in facial injuries and the confiscation of personal belongings such as mobile phones. In light of these developments, the ZPP has urged the government and judiciary to reinforce the rule of law and to safeguard human rights effectively. It has also called upon the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission to create robust mechanisms for the investigation and prosecution of such rights violations.
The increase in political violence in Zimbabwe, fueled by Zanu PF’s efforts to extend President Mnangagwa’s term, has resulted in thousands of human rights violations, particularly noted in February. Victims include women and individuals with disabilities, alongside rising tensions both within and outside the ruling party. Urgent actions are recommended to protect human rights and maintain order as the nation approaches critical political decisions.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
