A decade since Itai Dzamara’s disappearance, pressure is rising on Zimbabwe’s government for answers. Activists, including noted human rights lawyer Arnold Tsunga and former MP Job Sikhala, demand accountability from the ruling Zanu PF party, which they accuse of complicity. Dzamara’s case highlights significant human rights concerns in Zimbabwe, as the government remains unresponsive and has yet to ratify relevant international conventions.
Ten years after the mysterious disappearance of Itai Dzamara, a human rights advocate and journalist, there is growing pressure on the Zanu PF government of Zimbabwe to disclose information regarding his fate. Activists have criticized the ruling party, with some labeling it a terrorist organization, demanding accountability for Dzamara’s abduction. He was last seen on March 9, 2015, allegedly taken by state security operatives from his home in Glenview, Harare, leaving the circumstances of his disappearance largely unclear and prompting renewed calls for a comprehensive investigation.
Arnold Tsunga, a notable human rights attorney and Principal Managing Partner at Tsunga Bhamu Law International, urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to publicly explain its failure to address Dzamara’s case. He emphasized that the lack of progress affects not only human rights advocates but also Dzamara’s family, who endure ongoing trauma and uncertainty without closure. Tsunga stated, “The failure of any progress… affects the family. The family of a disappeared person suffers uncertainty, trauma, and they do not have closure.”
Former MP Job Sikhala claimed that the Zanu PF government possesses knowledge regarding Dzamara’s whereabouts and owes the public an explanation. He asserted, “It is the duty of every government to protect its citizens. We still demand…to know what happened to Itai,” reflecting the ongoing public interest in this matter.
Obert Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), accused Zanu PF of terrorist inclinations while emphasizing that those responsible for Dzamara’s disappearance will ultimately face consequences. He declared, “The Dzamara story reminds us that the Zanu PF party is a terrorist organisation. We will not tire to demand the return of Dzamara.”
Attempts to reach government officials for comment were unsuccessful. Nonetheless, Zanu PF’s Director of Communication, Farai Marapira, contended that it was the responsibility of activists to provide evidence for their claims, stating, “He who alleges must prove. It is sad that some people would seek cheap mileage over another family’s anguish.”
Zimbabwe has not yet signed the United Nations International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, despite persistent advocacy from UN member states. Furthermore, in a significant legal move, human rights lawyer Obey Shava, represented by notable attorney Tendai Biti, held the Mnangagwa administration accountable in the High Court, urging for ratification of the UN treaty against enforced disappearances. Shava criticized the systemic pattern of enforced disappearances and related human rights abuses occurring in the country.
The ongoing case of Itai Dzamara’s disappearance remains a critical issue that emphasizes the need for accountability in Zimbabwe. Activists and legal representatives are united in their demands for the government to clarify its failure in resolving this case. The allegations against Zanu PF reinforce concerns about human rights within the nation, compelling the government to take tangible steps towards protection and accountability. As the ten-year mark approaches, the calls for justice and transparency continue to resonate.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
