By Takudzwa Changadeya
Harare – Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has raised alarm over escalating human rights abuses in the country, urging the government to take immediate action to curb the crackdown on dissent.
Speaking during the commemoration of Human Rights Day on Tuesday, ZLHR condemned the persistent harassment and persecution of human rights defenders, emphasizing the culture of impunity that enables such violations to continue unabated.
“Human rights defenders continue to face intimidation, harassment, stigmatisation, and criminalisation for their legitimate work.
“The culture of impunity remains pervasive, coupled with the non-prosecution of perpetrators of human rights violations and the lack of accountability,” ZLHR said in a statement.
The organization expressed grave concern over the deteriorating operating environment for civil society organizations, citing executive overreach, the erosion of the rule of law, and the push to pass the contentious Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Amendment Bill.
“The government’s insistence on enacting this discredited bill amid widespread condemnation is tragic,” ZLHR stated.
ZLHR expressed concern over the deteriorating operating environment for civil society organisations, pointing to executive overreach, the erosion of the rule of law, and efforts to pass the contentious Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill.
International Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10, commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” underscores the importance of human rights in creating a better future.
ZLHR pleaded with the government to align its laws with the Constitution and fulfill international human rights obligations.
“To forge a better future, Zimbabwe must adhere to its regional and international commitments to protect human rights and uphold the rule of law,” ZLHR said.
ZLHR also paid tribute to human rights defenders, lauding their resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
“We pay tribute to those risking their lives to protect the persecuted and oppressed for present and future generations,” the statement read.
