- ZLHR urges Mnangagwa’s government to criminalise torture.
- Disappointment expressed over lack of accountability for torture perpetrators.
- International Day in Support of Victims of Torture highlights the 2008 violence.
- Continuing reports of torture against political prisoners in Zimbabwe.
- Government fails to act on UN recommendations about torture prevention.
Urgent Plea for Government Action on Torture
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has issued a strong call to the government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, urging them to explicitly criminalize torture and ensure that justice is delivered for the victims. On June 27, which is observed as the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, ZLHR expressed its dissatisfaction regarding the government’s ongoing failure to hold accountable those who perpetrate acts of torture. This date is particularly poignant for Zimbabweans, as it recalls the severe political violence of 2008, during which more than 300 supporters of the late opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai were murdered following State-sponsored attacks, leading Tsvangirai to suspend his presidential campaign.
Continued Violations and Lack of Accountability
Despite the distressing history, cases of torture continue to plague the current security forces, especially against political prisoners in detention. The ZLHR highlighted its deep concern about reports that indicate torture inflicted upon suspects within detention centers. Worryingly, the security services—whose members are allegedly involved in these cases—remain untouched by the law. The Zimbabwean constitution, particularly section 53, outright prohibits such inhumane treatment, yet violations persist with utter impunity. Consequently, the government’s lack of initiative to prosecute perpetrators exacerbates the ongoing cycle of violence and fear within the country’s detention facilities.
The Path Forward: Ratifying UN Conventions
In addition, ZLHR has pointed out another glaring issue: the government’s inaction regarding the United Nations’ recommendations concerning torture prevention. It is argued that without ratifying the UN Convention Against Torture—which aims to safeguard human rights and eradicate torture—the country cannot expect to see significant improvements in its treatment of detainees. ZLHR emphasizes that ratifying such conventions is a critical step in mitigating torture and aiding victims in their pursuit of justice. The call for action is urgent: If justice is to be served, the government must take firm steps to criminalize torture and ensure there is accountability for those individuals who perpetrate such heinous acts.
In conclusion, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights are distinctly challenging President Mnangagwa’s administration to take an essential step towards eradicating torture by explicitly criminalizing it. With the historical context of violence still haunting the nation, the failure to hold perpetrators accountable remains a stumbling block to justice. The law must be upheld to protect the rights of victims and ensure that such inhumane acts will never again be tolerated.
